Ovarian stimulation for in vitro fertilization alters the intrauterine cytokine, chemokine, and growth factor milieu encountered by the embryo.

PubMed

Boomsma, Carolien M; Kavelaars, Annemieke; Eijkemans, Marinus J C; Fauser, Bart C J M; Heijnen, Cobi J; Macklon, Nick S

2010-10-01

To elucidate the impact of ovarian stimulation on the intrauterine milieu represented by the cytokine, chemokine, and growth factor profile in endometrial secretions aspirated before embryo transfer. Prospective cohort study. Fertility center in tertiary referral university hospital. Forty-two patients undergoing ovarian stimulation with GnRH analogues were recruited. They participated in both a natural and an ovarian-stimulated cycle for within patient comparisons. Endometrial secretion aspiration was performed immediately before embryo transfer. The concentrations of 17 mediators known to be involved in human embryo implantation were assessed by multiplex immunoassay. After correction for multiple testing, significantly higher concentrations of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-5, IL-10, IL-12, IL-17, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HbEGF), eotaxin, and dickkopf homologue-1 were present in endometrial secretions obtained in stimulated compared with natural cycles. Endometrial secretion analysis provides a novel means of investigating the effect of ovarian stimulation on the intrauterine milieu. The in vivo milieu encountered by the embryo after transfer is significantly altered by ovarian stimulation. Copyright © 2010 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Psychiatry residents in a milieu participatory democracy: a resident's view.

PubMed

Gersten, D

1978-11-01

Psychiatry residents respond with a variety of coping mechanisms to the lack of traditional structure in a milieu participatory democracy. To incorporate themselves into the system they must accept such democratic ideals as equality among staff and patients, group decision making, and free self-expression and give up some of their traditional ideas about staff and patient roles, treatment modalities, and the therapeutic environment. The author was a first-year resident in psychiatry on a university hospital inpatient therapeutic community; he discusses the conflicts between residents, who often adopt a "we-they" attitude, and the permanent staff, whose protectiveness of the ward community reflects their personal commitment to its ideals.

Social Milieu Oriented Routing: A New Dimension to Enhance Network Security in WSNs.

PubMed

Liu, Lianggui; Chen, Li; Jia, Huiling

2016-02-19

In large-scale wireless sensor networks (WSNs), in order to enhance network security, it is crucial for a trustor node to perform social milieu oriented routing to a target a trustee node to carry out trust evaluation. This challenging social milieu oriented routing with more than one end-to-end Quality of Trust (QoT) constraint has proved to be NP-complete. Heuristic algorithms with polynomial and pseudo-polynomial-time complexities are often used to deal with this challenging problem. However, existing solutions cannot guarantee the efficiency of searching; that is, they can hardly avoid obtaining partial optimal solutions during a searching process. Quantum annealing (QA) uses delocalization and tunneling to avoid falling into local minima without sacrificing execution time. This has been proven a promising way to many optimization problems in recently published literatures. In this paper, for the first time, with the help of a novel approach, that is, configuration path-integral Monte Carlo (CPIMC) simulations, a QA-based optimal social trust path (QA_OSTP) selection algorithm is applied to the extraction of the optimal social trust path in large-scale WSNs. Extensive experiments have been conducted, and the experiment results demonstrate that QA_OSTP outperforms its heuristic opponents.

Theory of the milieu dependent isomerisation dynamics of reducing sugars applied to d-erythrose.

PubMed

Kaufmann, Martin; Mügge, Clemens; Kroh, Lothar W

2015-12-11

Quantitative (1)H selective saturation transfer NMR spectroscopy ((1)H SST qNMR) was used to fully describe the milieu dependent dynamics of the isomeric system of d-erythrose. Thermodynamic activation parameters are calculated for acidic as well as for basic catalysis combining McConnell's modified Bloch equations for the chemical exchange solved for the constraint of saturating the non-hydrated acyclic isomer, the Eyring equation and Hudson's equation for pH dependent catalysis. A detailed mathematical examination describing the milieu dependent dynamics of sugar isomerisation is provided. Thermodynamic data show evidence that photo-catalysed sugar isomerisation as well as degradation has to be considered. Approximations describing the pH and temperature dependence of thermodynamic activation parameters are derived that indicate the possibility of photo-affecting equilibrium constants. Moreover, the results show that isomerisation dynamics are closely related to degradation kinetics and that sugars' reactivities are altered by the concentration of acyclic carbonyl isomer and the sum of its ring closing rate constants. Additionally, it is concluded that sugar solutions show a limited self-stabilising behaviour. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Aphid Gel Saliva: Sheath Structure, Protein Composition and Secretory Dependence on Stylet-Tip Milieu

PubMed Central

Will, Torsten; Steckbauer, Kathrin; Hardt, Martin; van Bel, Aart J. E.

2012-01-01

In order to separate and analyze saliva types secreted during stylet propagation and feeding, aphids were fed on artificial diets. Gel saliva was deposited as chains of droplets onto Parafilm membranes covering the diets into which watery saliva was secreted. Saliva compounds collected from the diet fluid were separated by SDS-PAGE, while non-soluble gel saliva deposits were processed in a novel manner prior to protein separation by SDS-PAGE. Soluble (watery saliva) and non-soluble (gel saliva) protein fractions were significantly different. To test the effect of the stylet milieu on saliva secretion, aphids were fed on various diets. Hardening of gel saliva is strongly oxygen-dependent, probably owing to formation of sulfide bridges by oxidation of sulphydryl groups. Surface texture of gel saliva deposits is less pronounced under low-oxygen conditions and disappears in dithiothreitol containing diet. Using diets mimicking sieve-element sap and cell-wall fluid respectively showed that the soluble protein fraction was almost exclusively secreted in sieve elements while non-soluble fraction was preferentially secreted at cell wall conditions. This indicates that aphids are able to adapt salivary secretion in dependence of the stylet milieu. PMID:23056521

Impulsions laser femtosecondes intenses à contraste élevé dans le bleu-vert par amplification directe dans un milieu gazeux

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uteza, O.; Tcheremiskine, V.; Clady, R.; Coustillier, G.; Sentis, M.; Spiga, Ph.; Mikheev, L. D.

2005-06-01

Cet article présente la conception d'une chaîne laser femtoseconde TW visible, associant (i) un oscillateur solide Ti:Sa opéré à 950 nm, (ii) un amplificateur optique à dérive de fréquence permettant l'amplification du signal à 950 nm au niveau de plusieurs dizaines de mJ, (iii) un système doubleur pour convertir le signal à 475 nm et l'injecter dans le milieu amplificateur XeF (C-A), (iv) un milieu gazeux excimères XeF (C-A) permettant l'amplification directe du signal à 475 nm à plusieurs centaines de mJ et ainsi l'obtention d'impulsions TW visibles à contraste élevé.

Early Effects of Responsivity Education/Prelinguistic Milieu Teaching for Children with Developmental Delays and Their Parents

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fey, Marc E.; Warren, Steven F.; Brady, Nancy; Finestack, Lizbeth H.; Bredin-Oja, Shelley L.; Fairchild, Martha; Sokol, Shari; Yoder, Paul J.

2006-01-01

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of a 6-month course of responsivity education/prelinguistic milieu teaching (RE/PMT) for children with developmental delay and RE/PMT's effects on parenting stress in a randomized clinical trial. Method: Fifty-one children, age 24-33 months, with no more than 10 expressive words or signs, were randomly assigned to…

Enclosed versus open nursing stations in adult acute care psychiatric settings: does the design affect the therapeutic milieu?

PubMed

Southard, Kelly; Jarrell, Ashley; Shattell, Mona M; McCoy, Thomas P; Bartlett, Robin; Judge, Christine A

2012-05-01

Specific efforts by hospital accreditation organizations encourage renovation of nursing stations, so nurses can better see, attend, and care for their patients. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of nursing station design on the therapeutic milieu in an adult acute care psychiatric unit. A repeated cross-sectional, pretest-posttest design was used. Data were collected from a convenience sample of 81 patients and 25 nursing staff members who completed the Ward Atmosphere Scale. Pretest data were collected when the unit had an enclosed nursing station, and posttest data were collected after renovations to the unit created an open nursing station. No statistically significant differences were found in patient or staff perceptions of the therapeutic milieu. No increase in aggression toward staff was found, given patients' ease of access to the nursing station. More research is needed about the impact of unit design in acute care psychiatric settings. Copyright 2012, SLACK Incorporated.

Do non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs influence the steroid hormone milieu in male athletes?

PubMed

Di Luigi, L; Rossi, C; Sgrò, P; Fierro, V; Romanelli, F; Baldari, C; Guidetti, L

2007-10-01

Prostaglandins modulate the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal and -gonadal axis pathways. We explored the effects of a single course of treatment with acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, on the steroid milieu in athletes. Morning plasma cortisol (F), dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate, free-testosterone, testosterone (T) and their ratios were evaluated before and after the administration of either ASA or placebo in twelve male athletes, when affected by minor musculoskeletal trauma and, as control, after a five/six week wash-out in healthy conditions respectively. One tablet of ASA (800 mg), or placebo, was administered two times daily for 10 days during treatment. All the volunteers suspended exercise training during treatment. The results revealed that compared to placebo, plasma F was significantly lower after ASA treatment (p = 0.023). Furthermore, the comparison of hormone's absolute and percentage of variations (Delta and Delta%) between ASA and placebo treatment showed significant differences respectively for DeltaF (p = 0.045), for DeltaT (p = 0.047), for DeltaT/F (p = 0.042), for DeltaF% (p = 0.04) and for DeltaT% (p = 0.049). Our data suggest that in comparison to placebo, a short-term ASA treatment is able to influence the plasma steroid milieu in athletes. Due to the observed variability of the individual hormonal patterns, further research is required to substantiate these findings.

Effects of a Modified Milieu Therapy Intervention on the Social Communicative Behaviors of Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mancil, G. Richmond; Conroy, Maureen A.; Haydon, Todd F.

2009-01-01

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the effectiveness of combining milieu therapy and functional communication training (FCT) to replace aberrant behavior with functional communicative skills in 3 male preschool or elementary aged children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Study activities were conducted in the natural…

Antitumor action of 3-bromopyruvate implicates reorganized tumor growth regulatory components of tumor milieu, cell cycle arrest and induction of mitochondria-dependent tumor cell death.

PubMed

Yadav, Saveg; Kujur, Praveen Kumar; Pandey, Shrish Kumar; Goel, Yugal; Maurya, Babu Nandan; Verma, Ashish; Kumar, Ajay; Singh, Rana Pratap; Singh, Sukh Mahendra

2018-01-15

Evidences demonstrate that metabolic inhibitor 3-bromopyruvate (3-BP) exerts a potent antitumor action against a wide range of malignancies. However, the effect of 3-BP on progression of the tumors of thymic origin remains unexplored. Although, constituents of tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a pivotal role in regulation of tumor progression, it remains unclear if 3-BP can alter the composition of the crucial tumor growth regulatory components of the external surrounding of tumor cells. Thus, the present investigation attempts to understand the effect of 3-BP administration to a host bearing a progressively growing tumor of thymic origin on tumor growth regulatory soluble, cellular and biophysical components of tumor milieu vis-à-vis understanding its association with tumor progression, accompanying cell cycle events and mode of cell death. Further, the expression of cell survival regulatory molecules and hemodynamic characteristics of the tumor milieu were analysed to decipher mechanisms underlying the antitumor action of 3-BP. Administration of 3-BP to tumor-bearing hosts retarded tumor progression accompanied by induction of tumor cell death, cell cycle arrest, declined metabolism, inhibited mitochondrial membrane potential, elevated release of cytochrome c and altered hemodynamics. Moreover, 3-BP reconstituted the external milieu, in concurrence with deregulated glucose and pH homeostasis and increased tumor infiltration by NK cells, macrophages, and T lymphocytes. Further, 3-BP administration altered the expression of key regulatory molecules involved in glucose uptake, intracellular pH and tumor cell survival. The outcomes of this study will help in optimizing the therapeutic application of 3-BP by targeting crucial tumor growth regulatory components of tumor milieu. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Milieu matters: Evidence that ongoing lifestyle activities influence health behaviors

PubMed Central

Lowe, Rob; Norman, Paul

2017-01-01

Health behaviors occur within a milieu of lifestyle activities that could conflict with health actions. We examined whether cognitions about, and performance of, other lifestyle activities augment the prediction of health behaviors, and whether these lifestyle factors are especially influential among individuals with low health behavior engagement. Participants (N = 211) completed measures of past behavior and cognitions relating to five health behaviors (e.g., smoking, getting drunk) and 23 lifestyle activities (e.g., reading, socializing), as well as personality variables. All behaviors were measured again at two weeks. Data were analyzed using neural network and cluster analyses. The neural network accurately predicted health behaviors at follow-up (R2 = .71). As hypothesized, lifestyle cognitions and activities independently predicted health behaviors over and above behavior-specific cognitions and previous behavior. Additionally, lifestyle activities and poor self-regulatory capability were more influential among people exhibiting unhealthy behaviors. Considering ongoing lifestyle activities can enhance prediction and understanding of health behaviors and offer new targets for health behavior interventions. PMID:28662120

La réflexion des ondes électromagnétiques du milieu de gyrotropie anisotrope, avec un axe d'anisotropie et un angle d'incidence arbitraires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tchalyk, A.

1994-01-01

The interaction of plane electromagnetic wave with half-infinit gyrotropic media for different directions of propagation of incident microwave radiation and various directions of gyrotropic axis are investigated. The equations for calculation of wave's parameters exited in media and reflected from media-surface are obtained. On étudie l'interaction d'une onde électromagnétique plane avec un milieu gyrotrope à demi-infini dans le cas d'une direction arbitraire de propagation de la radiation électromagnétique incidente et de l'axe de gyrotropie. On a obtenu des expressions permettant de calculer les caractéristiques des ondes excitées dans et par le milieu.

Neutrophils alter the inflammatory milieu by signal-dependent translation of constitutive messenger RNAs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lindemann, Stephan W.; Yost, Christian C.; Denis, Melvin M.; McIntyre, Thomas M.; Weyrich, Andrew S.; Zimmerman, Guy A.

2004-05-01

The mechanisms by which neutrophils, key effector cells of the innate immune system, express new gene products in inflammation are largely uncharacterized. We found that they rapidly translate constitutive mRNAs when activated, a previously unrecognized response. One of the proteins synthesized without a requirement for transcription is the soluble IL-6 receptor , which translocates to endothelial cells and induces a temporal switch to mononuclear leukocyte recruitment. Its synthesis is regulated by a specialized translational control pathway that is inhibited by rapamycin, a bacterial macrolide with therapeutic efficacy in transplantation, inflammatory syndromes, and neoplasia. Signal-dependent translation in activated neutrophils may be a critical mechanism for alteration of the inflammatory milieu and a therapeutic target.

Rocky milieu: challenges of effective integration of clinical risk management into hospitals in Iran.

PubMed

Farokhzadian, Jamileh; Nayeri, Nahid Dehghan; Borhani, Fariba

2015-01-01

Healthcare risks and clinical risks have been recognized as a major challenge in healthcare. Clinical risks can never be eliminated and can have serious adverse effects on patient safety. Thus, a clinical risk management (CRM) system has been introduced in the healthcare system to improve quality services. The aim of this study was to explore nurses' experiences related to the challenges of implementing CRM in the organizational context. This qualitative study was based on the conventional content analysis of the Lundman and Graneheim approach, and it consisted of 22 interview sessions with 20 nurses. The purposive sampling method was used to choose the participants from three hospitals affiliated with the Kerman University of Medical Sciences. We used semi-structured interviews and review of relevant documents to collect data. The analysis of the data led to the emergence of "rocky milieu" as the main theme, and it consisted of three categories that, along with their subcategories, explain the challenges of implementing CRM. The three categories and their subcategories were (1) organizational culture and leadership challenges (decision and performance of leadership and cultural resistance to change), (2) limitation of resources (financial, human, and physical and equipment resources), and (3) variations and complexities in working conditions (the emotional, psychological, and social atmosphere and the heaviness of workload). Attempts have been made to establish CRM through clinical governance and accreditation, but organizational challenges have created a rocky milieu for implementing CRM. However, from an organizational context concerning the suitability of healthcare in Iran, there are obvious needs to move toward quality improvement and safe practices through the effective implementation of CRM.

The Effects of Enhanced Milieu Teaching and a Voice Output Communication Aid on the Requesting of Three Children with Autism

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Olive, Melissa L.; de la Cruz, Berenice; Davis, Tonya N.; Chan, Jeffrey M.; Lang, Russell B.; O'Reilly, Mark F.; Dickson, Sarah M.

2007-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of enhanced milieu teaching when combined with a voice output communication aid on the requesting skills of three children with autism. The research design was a multiple probe across participants. All sessions were conducted during 5-min play sessions in the child's classroom. All three…

CAR T cell therapy for breast cancer: harnessing the tumor milieu to drive T cell activation.

PubMed

Bajgain, Pradip; Tawinwung, Supannikar; D'Elia, Lindsey; Sukumaran, Sujita; Watanabe, Norihiro; Hoyos, Valentina; Lulla, Premal; Brenner, Malcolm K; Leen, Ann M; Vera, Juan F

2018-05-10

The adoptive transfer of T cells redirected to tumor via chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) has produced clinical benefits for the treatment of hematologic diseases. To extend this approach to breast cancer, we generated CAR T cells directed against mucin1 (MUC1), an aberrantly glycosylated neoantigen that is overexpressed by malignant cells and whose expression has been correlated with poor prognosis. Furthermore, to protect our tumor-targeted cells from the elevated levels of immune-inhibitory cytokines present in the tumor milieu, we co-expressed an inverted cytokine receptor linking the IL4 receptor exodomain with the IL7 receptor endodomain (4/7ICR) in order to transform the suppressive IL4 signal into one that would enhance the anti-tumor effects of our CAR T cells at the tumor site. First (1G - CD3ζ) and second generation (2G - 41BB.CD3ζ) MUC1-specific CARs were constructed using the HMFG2 scFv. Following retroviral transduction transgenic expression of the CAR±ICR was assessed by flow cytometry. In vitro CAR/ICR T cell function was measured by assessing cell proliferation and short- and long-term cytotoxic activity using MUC1+ MDA MB 468 cells as targets. In vivo anti-tumor activity was assessed using IL4-producing MDA MB 468 tumor-bearing mice using calipers to assess tumor volume and bioluminescence imaging to track T cells. In the IL4-rich tumor milieu, 1G CAR.MUC1 T cells failed to expand or kill MUC1+ tumors and while co-expression of the 4/7ICR promoted T cell expansion, in the absence of co-stimulatory signals the outgrowing cells exhibited an exhausted phenotype characterized by PD-1 and TIM3 upregulation and failed to control tumor growth. However, by co-expressing 2G CAR.MUC1 (signal 1 - activation + signal 2 - co-stimulation) and 4/7ICR (signal 3 - cytokine), transgenic T cells selectively expanded at the tumor site and produced potent and durable tumor control in vitro and in vivo. Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of targeting breast

The exercise-induced biochemical milieu enhances collagen content and tensile strength of engineered ligaments.

PubMed

West, Daniel W D; Lee-Barthel, Ann; McIntyre, Todd; Shamim, Baubak; Lee, Cassandra A; Baar, Keith

2015-10-15

Exercise stimulates a dramatic change in the concentration of circulating hormones, such as growth hormone (GH), but the biological functions of this response are unclear. Pharmacological GH administration stimulates collagen synthesis; however, whether the post-exercise systemic milieu has a similar action is unknown. We aimed to determine whether the collagen content and tensile strength of tissue-engineered ligaments is enhanced by serum obtained post-exercise. Primary cells from a human anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) were used to engineer ligament constructs in vitro. Blood obtained from 12 healthy young men 15 min after resistance exercise contained GH concentrations that were ∼7-fold greater than resting serum (P < 0.001), whereas IGF-1 was not elevated at this time point (P = 0.21 vs. rest). Ligament constructs were treated for 7 days with medium supplemented with serum obtained at rest (RestTx) or 15 min post-exercise (ExTx), before tensile testing and collagen content analysis. Compared with RestTx, ExTx enhanced collagen content (+19%; 181 ± 33 vs. 215 ± 40 μg per construct P = 0.001) and ligament mechanical properties - maximal tensile load (+17%, P = 0.03 vs. RestTx) and ultimate tensile strength (+10%, P = 0.15 vs. RestTx). In a separate set of engineered ligaments, recombinant IGF-1, but not GH, enhanced collagen content and mechanics. Bioassays in 2D culture revealed that acute treatment with post-exercise serum activated mTORC1 and ERK1/2. In conclusion, the post-exercise biochemical milieu, but not recombinant GH, enhances collagen content and tensile strength of engineered ligaments, in association with mTORC1 and ERK1/2 activation. © 2015 The Authors. The Journal of Physiology © 2015 The Physiological Society.

The Response of Human Macrophages to β-Glucans Depends on the Inflammatory Milieu

PubMed Central

Montero, Olimpio; Hugo, Etzel; Rodríguez, Mario; Domingo, Esther; Alonso, Sara

2013-01-01

Background β-glucans are fungal cell wall components that bind to the C-type lectin-like receptor dectin-1. Polymorphisms of dectin-1 gene are associated with susceptibility to invasive fungal infection and medically refractory ulcerative colitis. The purpose of this study has been addressing the response of human macrophages to β-glucans under different conditions mimicking the composition of the inflammatory milieu in view of the wide plasticity and large range of phenotypical changes showed by these cells, and the relevant role of dectin-1 in several pathophysiological conditions. Principal Findings Serum-differentiated macrophages stimulated with β-glucans showed a low production of TNFα and IL-1β, a high production of IL-6 and IL-23, and a delayed induction of cyclooxygenase-2 and PGE2 biosynthesis that resembled the responses elicited by crystals and those produced when phagosomal degradation of the phagocytic cargo increases ligand access to intracellular pattern recognition receptors. Priming with a low concentration of LPS produced a rapid induction of cyclooxygenase-2 and a synergistic release of PGE2. When the differentiation of the macrophages was carried out in the presence of M-CSF, an increased expression of dectin-1 B isoform was observed. In addition, this treatment made the cells capable to release arachidonic acid in response to β-glucan. Conclusions These results indicate that the macrophage response to fungal β-glucans is strongly influenced by cytokines and microbial-derived factors that are usual components of the inflammatory milieu. These responses can be sorted into three main patterns i) an elementary response dependent on phagosomal processing of pathogen-associated molecular patterns and/or receptor-independent, direct membrane binding linked to the immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif-bearing transmembrane adaptor DNAX-activating protein 12, ii) a response primed by TLR4-dependent signals, and iii) a response dependent

Mediterranean diet cools down the inflammatory milieu in type 2 diabetes: the MÉDITA randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Maiorino, Maria Ida; Bellastella, Giuseppe; Petrizzo, Michela; Scappaticcio, Lorenzo; Giugliano, Dario; Esposito, Katherine

2016-12-01

Mediterranean-style diets provide cardiovascular benefits and increase insulin sensitivity. There is little evidence that adherence to Mediterranean diet may influence the levels of the inflammatory milieu in type 2 diabetes. The aim of this study was to assess whether Mediterranean diet influences both C-reactive protein (CRP) and adiponectin in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes, and whether adherence to Mediterranean diet affects their circulating levels. In a two-arm, single-center trial, 215 men and women with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes were randomized to a Mediterranean diet (n = 108, 54 males and 54 females) or a low-fat diet (n = 107, 52 males and 55 females), with a total follow-up of 8.1 years. At baseline visit and at 1 year, body weight, HOMA index, CRP, and adiponectin and its fractions were assessed. Adherence to the diets was assessed by calculating the Mediterranean-diet score. At 1 year, CPR fell by 37 % and adiponectin rose by 43 % in the Mediterranean diet group, while remaining unchanged in the low-fat diet group. The pattern of adiponectin fractions (high and non-high molecular weight) showed a response similar to that of total adiponectin. Diabetic patients with the highest scores (6-9 points) of adherence to Mediterranean diet had lower circulating CRP level and higher circulating total adiponectin levels than the diabetic patients who scored <3 points on the scale (P = 0.001). The results of this randomized controlled trial demonstrate that Mediterranean diet cools down the inflammatory milieu of type 2 diabetes.

Forced swimming sabotages the morphological and synaptic maturation of newborn granule neurons and triggers a unique pro-inflammatory milieu in the hippocampus.

PubMed

Llorens-Martín, María; Jurado-Arjona, Jerónimo; Bolós, Marta; Pallas-Bazarra, Noemí; Ávila, Jesús

2016-03-01

Recent experimental data suggest that mood disorders are related to inflammatory phenomena and have led to the "inflammatory hypothesis of depression". Given that the hippocampus is one of the most affected areas in these disorders, we used a model of acute stress (the Porsolt test) to evaluate the consequences of forced swimming on two crucial events related to the pathophysiology of major depression: the functional maturation of newborn granule neurons; and the hippocampal inflammatory milieu. Using PSD95:GFP-expressing retroviruses, we found that forced swimming selectively alters the dendritic morphology of newborn neurons and impairs their connectivity by reducing the number and volume of their postsynaptic densities. In addition, acute stress triggered a series of morphological changes in microglial cells, together with an increase in microglial CD68 expression, thus suggesting the functional and morphological activation of this cell population. Furthermore, we observed an intriguing change in the hippocampal inflammatory milieu in response to forced swimming. Importantly, the levels of several molecules affected by acute stress (such as Interleukin-6 and eotaxin) have been described to also be altered in patients with depression and other mood disorders. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Parent-Implemented Enhanced Milieu Teaching with Preschool Children with Intellectual Disabilities

PubMed Central

Kaiser, Ann P.; Roberts, Megan Y.

2013-01-01

Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of Enhanced Milieu Teaching (EMT) implemented by parents and therapists versus therapists only on the language skills of preschool children with intellectual disabilities (ID), including children with Down syndrome and children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Method Seventy-seven children were randomly assigned to two treatments (parent + therapist EMT or therapist only EMT) and received 36 intervention sessions. Children were assessed before, immediately after, 6 months after, and 12 months after intervention. Separate linear regressions were conducted for each standardized and observational measure at each time point. Results Parents in the parent + therapist group demonstrated greater use of EMT strategies at home than untrained parents in the therapist only group and these effects maintained over time. Effect sizes for observational measures ranged from d = .10 to d = 1.32 favoring the parent + therapist group, with the largest effect sizes found 12 months after intervention. Conclusion Findings from this study indicate generally that there are benefits to training parents to implement naturalistic language intervention strategies with preschool children who have ID and significant language impairments. PMID:22744141

Culturally diverse Malayan milieu: experiences and perceptions of RAANC nurses 1955-1960.

PubMed

McLeod, Margaret

2007-07-01

The war exploits of Australian Army nurses have been represented in a number of literary sources, but there is a paucity of data about the nurses who served in the Malayan Emergency (1948-1960). Using descriptive interpretive historiography, with a central focus on oral testimony, this paper aims to highlight the culturally rich and diverse environment of Malaya in the 1950s. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with four women from the Royal Australian Army Nursing Corps to expose their experiences and perceptions of the Malayan environment and its people. The information provided by these nurses was subjected to manual thematic analysis resulting in the emergence of a number of themes. One prominent theme, Malaya's cultural diversity, was chosen for this paper because it contained an abundant source of new and rich data. To protect the identities of the informants pseudonyms were used in the presentation of the oral narratives. This approach led to revelations about how Australian women, with limited knowledge or exposure to other cultural groups, engaged in work and leisure time pursuits in Malaya's exotic cultural milieu.

Testosterone supplementation, glucocorticoid milieu and bone homeostasis in the ageing male.

PubMed

Ajdžanović, Vladimir Z; Filipović, Branko R; Šošić Jurjević, Branka T; Milošević, Verica Lj

2017-08-01

Male ageing is entwined with a continuous fall in free testosterone levels, which contributes to the pathogenesis of bone loss. Glucocorticoid excess, either dependent on the ageing process or iatrogenically induced, was found to additionally impair the bone structure and metabolism. Cautious testosterone supplementation in this respect may positively affect the glucocorticoid milieu and bone homeostasis, while testosterone-induced changes in the glucocorticoid output could serve as a determinant of bone-related therapeutic outcome. Namely, bone mineral content/density, the parameters of trabecular bone structure as well as bone strength are enhanced, serum calcitonin levels tend to increase, while serum osteocalcin, serum parathyroid hormone and urinary calcium decrease, all upon testosterone administration to the ageing male. In parallel, testosterone application decreases glucocorticoid secretion in the animal models of male ageing, while clinical data in this field are still inconsistent. Importantly, a physiological link exists between testosterone-induced changes in glucocorticoid levels and the tendency of bone status improvement in the ageing male. We believe that the assessment of circulating adrenocorticotropic hormone concentrations together with glucocorticoid levels, reflecting the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis feedback loop operativeness during testosterone supplementation, represents a well-balanced bone-related therapeutic update. © 2017 Société Française de Pharmacologie et de Thérapeutique.

Biodegradation of chloro- and bromobenzoic acids: effect of milieu conditions and microbial community analysis.

PubMed

Gaza, Sarah; Felgner, Annika; Otto, Johannes; Kushmaro, Ariel; Ben-Dov, Eitan; Tiehm, Andreas

2015-04-28

Monohalogenated benzoic acids often appear in industrial wastewaters where biodegradation can be hampered by complex mixtures of pollutants and prevailing extreme milieu conditions. In this study, the biodegradation of chlorinated and brominated benzoic acids was conducted at a pH range of 5.0-9.0, at elevated salt concentrations and with pollutant mixtures including fluorinated and iodinated compounds. In mixtures of the isomers, the degradation order was primarily 4-substituted followed by 3-substituted and then 2-substituted halogenated benzoic acids. If the pH and salt concentration were altered simultaneously, long adaptation periods were required. Community analyses were conducted in liquid batch cultures and after immobilization on sand columns. The Alphaproteobacteria represented an important fraction in all of the enrichment cultures. On the genus level, Afipia sp. was detected most frequently. In particular, Bacteroidetes were detected in high numbers with chlorinated benzoic acids. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Integration des sciences et de la langue: Creation et experimentation d'un modele pedagogique pour ameliorer l'apprentissage des sciences en milieu francophone minoritaire

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cormier, Marianne

Les faibles resultats en sciences des eleves du milieu francophone minoritaire, lors d'epreuves au plan national et international, ont interpelle la recherche de solutions. Cette these avait pour but de creer et d'experimenter un modele pedagogique pour l'enseignement des sciences en milieu linguistique minoritaire. En raison de la presence de divers degres de francite chez la clientele scolaire de ce milieu, plusieurs elements langagiers (l'ecriture, la discussion et la lecture) ont ete integres a l'apprentissage scientifique. Nous avions recommande de commencer le processus d'apprentissage avec des elements langagiers plutot informels (redaction dans un journal, discussions en dyades...) pour progresser vers des activites langagieres plus formelles (redaction de rapports ou d'explications scientifiques). En ce qui a trait a l'apprentissage scientifique, le modele preconisait une demarche d'evolution conceptuelle d'inspiration socio-constructiviste tout en s'appuyant fortement sur l'apprentissage experientiel. Lors de l'experimentation du modele, nous voulions savoir si celui-ci provoquait une evolution conceptuelle chez les eleves, et si, simultanement, le vocabulaire scientifique de ces derniers s'enrichissait. Par ailleurs, nous cherchions a comprendre comment les eleves vivaient leurs apprentissages dans le cadre de ce modele pedagogique. Une classe de cinquieme annee de l'ecole de Grande-Digue, dans le Sud-est du Nouveau-Brunswick, a participe a la mise a l'essai du modele en etudiant les marais sales locaux. Lors d'entrevues initiales, nous avons remarque que les connaissances des eleves au sujet des marais sales etaient limitees. En effet, s'ils etaient conscients que les marais etaient des lieux naturels, ils ne pouvaient pas necessairement les decrire avec precision. Nous avons egalement constate que les eleves utilisaient surtout des mots communs (plantes, oiseaux, insectes) pour decrire le marais. Les resultats obtenus indiquent que les eleves ont

Hypoxic Niche-Mediated Regeneration of Hematopoiesis in the Engraftment Window Is Dominantly Affected by Oxygen Tension in the Milieu

PubMed Central

Moirangthem, Ranjita Devi; Singh, Shweta; Adsul, Ashwini; Jalnapurkar, Sapana; Limaye, Lalita

2015-01-01

The bone marrow (BM) microenvironment or the hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) niche is normally hypoxic, which maintains HSC quiescence. Paradoxically, transplanted HSCs rapidly proliferate in this niche. Pretransplant myelosuppression results in a substantial rise in oxygen levels in the marrow microenvironment due to reduced cellularity and consequent low oxygen consumption. Therefore, it may be construed that the rapid proliferation of the engrafted HSCs in the BM niche is facilitated by the transiently elevated oxygen tension in this milieu during the “engraftment window.” To determine whether oxygen tension dominantly affects the regeneration of hematopoiesis in the BM niche, we created an “oxygen-independent hypoxic niche” by treating BM-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) with a hypoxia-mimetic compound, cobalt chloride (CoCl2) and cocultured them with BM-derived HSC-enriched cells under normoxic conditions (HSCs; CoCl2-cocultures). Cocultures with untreated BMSCs incubated under normoxia (control- cocultures) or hypoxia (1% O2; hypoxic-cocultures) were used as comparators. Biochemical analyses showed that though, both CoCl2 and hypoxia evoked comparable signals in the BMSCs, the regeneration of hematopoiesis in their respective cocultures was radically different. The CoCl2-BMSCs supported robust hematopoiesis, while the hypoxic-BMSCs exerted strong inhibition. The hematopoiesis-supportive ability of CoCl2-BMSCs was abrogated if the CoCl2-cocultures were incubated under hypoxia, demonstrating that the prevalent oxygen tension in the milieu dominantly affects the outcome of the HSC-BM niche interactions. Our data suggest that pharmacologically delaying the reestablishment of hypoxia in the BM may boost post-transplant regeneration of hematopoiesis. PMID:26107807

Validation of the Inventaire du Milieu Familial Questionnaire (French version of the Infant/Toddler HOME) into the Brazilian Portuguese language.

PubMed

Sudbrack, Simone; Barbosa, Fernanda P; Mattiello, Rita; Booij, Linda; Estorgato, Geovana R; Dutra, Moisés S; Assunção, Fabiana D de; Nunes, Magda L

2018-04-22

To validate the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Family Environment Assessment questionnaire (Inventaire du Milieu Familial). The validation process was carried out in two stages. First, translation and back-translation were performed, and in the second phase, the questionnaire was applied in 72 families of children between 0 and 24 months for the validation process. The tool consists of the following domains: mother's communication ability; behavior; organization of the physical and temporal environment; collection/quantity of toys; maternal attitude of constant attention toward her baby; diversification of stimuli; baby's behavior. The following was performed for the scale validation: 1 - content analysis (judgment); 2 - construct analysis (factorial analysis - Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin, Bartlett, and Pearson's correlation tests); 3 - criterion analysis (calculation of Cronbach's alpha coefficient, intraclass correlations, and split-half correlations). The mean age of the children was 9±6.7 months, and of these, 35 (48.6%) were males. Most correlations between items and domains were significant. In the factorial analysis of the scale, Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin values were 0.76, Bartlett's test showed a p-value<0.001, and correlation between items and domains showed a p-value<0.01. Regarding the validity, Cronbach's alpha was 0.92 (95% CI: 0.89-0.94). The intraclass correlation among the evaluators was 0.97 (0.96-0.98) and split-half correlations, r: 0.60, with p<0.01. The Portuguese version of the Inventaire du Milieu Familial showed good to excellent performance regarding the assessed psychometric properties. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda.

Increasing social interaction using prelinguistic milieu teaching with nonverbal school-age children with autism.

PubMed

Franco, Jessica H; Davis, Barbara L; Davis, John L

2013-08-01

Children with autism display marked deficits in initiating and maintaining social interaction. Intervention using play routines can create a framework for developing and maintaining social interaction between these children and their communication partners. Six nonverbal 5- to 8-year-olds with autism were taught to engage in social interaction within salient play routines. Prelinguistic milieu teaching (PMT) techniques were used to teach the children to communicate intentionally during these routines. Intervention focused on the children's social interaction with an adult. The effects of intervention were evaluated using a multiple baseline design across participants. At study onset, the participants demonstrated few consistent interaction with others. With intervention, all of the children improved their ability to sustain social interactions, as evidenced by an increase in the number of communicative interactions during play routines. Participants also increased their overall rate of initiated intentional communication. Development of intentional prelinguistic communication within salient social routines creates opportunities for an adult to teach social and communication skills to young school-age children with autism who function at a nonverbal level.

A Qualitative Analysis of Substance Use among Liberian Youth: Understanding Behaviors, Consequences, and Protective Factors Involving School Youth and the School Milieu.

PubMed

Pullen, Samuel J; Petruzzi, Liana; Lange, Brittany Cl; Parnarouskis, Lindsey; Dominguez, Silvia; Harris, Benjamin; Quiterio, Nicole; Durham, Michelle P; Lekpeh, Gondah; Manobah, Burgess; Slopadoe, Siede P; Diandy, Veronique C; Payne, Arthur J; Henderson, David C; Borba, Christina Pc

2016-02-01

Substance use is a significant and common problem among school-aged youths throughout Africa. Like other countries on this continent, the West-African nation of Liberia is recovering from civil war. A well-educated population of young people is critical to the recovery efforts and long-term success of Liberia. Substance use by school-aged youths has important public health consequences that could undermine Liberia's post-conflict recovery efforts. We wanted to better understand the culturally significant themes and subthemes related to substance use among youths attending public schools in Monrovia, Liberia. A qualitative research design was used to collect data from 72 students attending public school in Monrovia, Liberia. Nine focus groups of 6-8 students from three public schools were facilitated using a semi-structured format to guide discussions on substance use. Student narratives were translated and re-occurring themes and subthemes were coded and analyzed. Four emergent themes described in this study were: Behaviors associated with substance useConsequences associated with individual useConsequences of substance use that affected the school milieuSchool-related factors that were protective from substance use.Subthemes associated with substance use included concealment of substances, intoxication and disruption of the classroom environment, expulsion from school, school drop-out, and school as protective against substance use. Liberian school-aged youths described important themes and subthemes associated with substance use occurring within the school milieu. These data have germane public health ramifications, and could help inform larger epidemiologic study methods and public health interventions for Liberia and countries with similar profiles.

Dexamethasone inhibits activation of monocytes/macrophages in a milieu rich in 27-oxygenated cholesterol.

PubMed

Kim, Bo-Young; Son, Yonghae; Lee, Jeonga; Choi, Jeongyoon; Kim, Chi Dae; Bae, Sun Sik; Eo, Seong-Kug; Kim, Koanhoi

2017-01-01

Molecular mechanisms underlying the decreased number of macrophages and T cells in the arteries of cholesterol-fed-rabbits following dexamethasone administration are unknown. We investigated the possibility that dexamethasone could affect activation of monocytic cells induced by oxygenated derivatives of cholesterol (oxysterols) using THP-1 monocyte/macrophage cells. 27-Hydroxycholesterol (27OHChol), an oxysterol elevated with hypercholesterolemia, enhanced production of CCL2, known as MCP1, chemokine from monocytes/macrophages and migration of the monocytic cells, but the CCL2 production and the cell migration were reduced by treatment with dexamethasone. Dexamethasone inhibited superproduction of CCL2 induced by 27OHChol plus LPS and attenuated transcription of matrix metalloproteinase 9 as well as secretion of its active gene product induced by 27OHChol. The drug downregulated cellular and surface levels of CD14 and blocked release of soluble CD14 without altering transcription of the gene. Dexamethasone also inhibited expression and phosphorylation of the NF-κB p65 subunit enhanced by 27OHChol. Collectively, these results indicate that dexamethasone inhibits activation of monocytes/macrophages in response to 27OHChol, thereby leading to decreased migration of inflammatory cells in milieu rich in oxygenated derivatives of cholesterol.

Dexamethasone inhibits activation of monocytes/macrophages in a milieu rich in 27-oxygenated cholesterol

PubMed Central

Kim, Bo-Young; Son, Yonghae; Lee, Jeonga; Choi, Jeongyoon; Kim, Chi Dae; Bae, Sun Sik; Eo, Seong-Kug

2017-01-01

Molecular mechanisms underlying the decreased number of macrophages and T cells in the arteries of cholesterol-fed-rabbits following dexamethasone administration are unknown. We investigated the possibility that dexamethasone could affect activation of monocytic cells induced by oxygenated derivatives of cholesterol (oxysterols) using THP-1 monocyte/macrophage cells. 27-Hydroxycholesterol (27OHChol), an oxysterol elevated with hypercholesterolemia, enhanced production of CCL2, known as MCP1, chemokine from monocytes/macrophages and migration of the monocytic cells, but the CCL2 production and the cell migration were reduced by treatment with dexamethasone. Dexamethasone inhibited superproduction of CCL2 induced by 27OHChol plus LPS and attenuated transcription of matrix metalloproteinase 9 as well as secretion of its active gene product induced by 27OHChol. The drug downregulated cellular and surface levels of CD14 and blocked release of soluble CD14 without altering transcription of the gene. Dexamethasone also inhibited expression and phosphorylation of the NF-κB p65 subunit enhanced by 27OHChol. Collectively, these results indicate that dexamethasone inhibits activation of monocytes/macrophages in response to 27OHChol, thereby leading to decreased migration of inflammatory cells in milieu rich in oxygenated derivatives of cholesterol. PMID:29236764

[Socio-ecological study of the therapeutic milieu in a modern rehabilitation centre (author's transl)].

PubMed

Heftner, E; Höller, H

1978-11-01

The article presents a data survey carried out by means of a questionnaire, the "ward atmosphere scale" described by Moos (1966--1974), U.S.A. In Austria, the effects of socio-ecological influences are examined for the first time at the rehabilitation centre in Hochegg. The data refer to autumn 1975. At that time attempts were made at Hochegg rehabilitation centre to develop a staff-centred guidance style and a client-centred therapeutic milieu in the sense of a therapeutic community. The patients were offered therapeutic programmes which were to the greatest possible degree tailored to their individual needs whilst not interferring with the patients' spontaneity and personal initiative. The analysis of the variables used in Hochegg are illustrated and compared with the mean values of the American results. It is pointed out that studies of existing conditions performed in an endeavour to create more human working conditions, are met with disapprouval. The first results of the survey are intended to be used as the basis for the improvement of the questionnaire and are helpful in decision-making regarding the development of therapeutic styles which meet the needs of the patient, regarding staff management and architectural influences.

Ecology and sampling techniques of an understudied subterranean habitat: the Milieu Souterrain Superficiel (MSS).

PubMed

Mammola, Stefano; Giachino, Pier Mauro; Piano, Elena; Jones, Alexandra; Barberis, Marcel; Badino, Giovanni; Isaia, Marco

2016-12-01

The term Milieu Souterrain Superficiel (MSS) has been used since the early 1980s in subterranean biology to categorize an array of different hypogean habitats. In general terms, a MSS habitat represents the underground network of empty air-filled voids and cracks developing within multiple layers of rock fragments. Its origins can be diverse and is generally covered by topsoil. The MSS habitat is often connected both with the deep hypogean domain-caves and deep rock cracks-and the superficial soil horizon. A MSS is usually characterized by peculiar microclimatic conditions, and it can harbor specialized hypogean, endogean, and surface-dwelling species. In light of the many interpretations given by different authors, we reviewed 235 papers regarding the MSS in order to provide a state-of-the-art description of these habitats and facilitate their study. We have briefly described the different types of MSS mentioned in the scientific literature (alluvial, bedrock, colluvial, volcanic, and other types) and synthesized the advances in the study of the physical and ecological factors affecting this habitat-i.e., microclimate, energy flows, animal communities, and trophic interactions. We finally described and reviewed the available sampling methods used to investigate MSS fauna.

Ecology and sampling techniques of an understudied subterranean habitat: the Milieu Souterrain Superficiel (MSS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mammola, Stefano; Giachino, Pier Mauro; Piano, Elena; Jones, Alexandra; Barberis, Marcel; Badino, Giovanni; Isaia, Marco

2016-12-01

The term Milieu Souterrain Superficiel (MSS) has been used since the early 1980s in subterranean biology to categorize an array of different hypogean habitats. In general terms, a MSS habitat represents the underground network of empty air-filled voids and cracks developing within multiple layers of rock fragments. Its origins can be diverse and is generally covered by topsoil. The MSS habitat is often connected both with the deep hypogean domain—caves and deep rock cracks—and the superficial soil horizon. A MSS is usually characterized by peculiar microclimatic conditions, and it can harbor specialized hypogean, endogean, and surface-dwelling species. In light of the many interpretations given by different authors, we reviewed 235 papers regarding the MSS in order to provide a state-of-the-art description of these habitats and facilitate their study. We have briefly described the different types of MSS mentioned in the scientific literature (alluvial, bedrock, colluvial, volcanic, and other types) and synthesized the advances in the study of the physical and ecological factors affecting this habitat—i.e., microclimate, energy flows, animal communities, and trophic interactions. We finally described and reviewed the available sampling methods used to investigate MSS fauna.

Defected red blood cell membranes and direct correlation with the uraemic milieu: the connection with the decreased red blood cell lifespan observed in haemodialysis patients

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stamopoulos, D.; Grapsa, E.; Manios, E.; Gogola, V.; Bakirtzi, N.

2012-12-01

Together with impaired production of erythropoietin and iron deficiency, the decreased lifespan of red blood cells (RBCs) is a main factor contributing to the chronic anaemia observed in haemodialysis (HD) patients. Atomic force microscopy is employed in this work to thoroughly survey the membrane of intact RBCs (iRBCs) of HD patients in comparison to those of healthy donors, aiming to obtain direct information on the structural status of RBCs that can be related to their decreased lifespan. We observed that the iRBC membrane of the HD patients is overpopulated with extended circular defects, termed ‘orifices’, that have typical dimension ranging between 0.2 and 1.0 μm. The ‘orifice’ index—that is, the mean population of ‘orifices’ per top membrane surface—exhibits a pronounced relative increase of order 54 ± 12% for the HD patients as compared to healthy donors. Interestingly, for the HD patients, the ‘orifice’ index, which relates to the structural status of the RBC membrane, correlates strongly with urea concentration, which is a basic index of the uraemic milieu. Thus, these results indicate that the uraemic milieu downgrades the structural status of the RBC membrane, possibly triggering biochemical processes that result in their premature elimination from the circulation. This process could decrease the lifespan of RBCs, as observed in HD patients.

Osteonecrosis of the jaw: effect of bisphosphonate type, local concentration, and acidic milieu on the pathomechanism.

PubMed

Otto, Sven; Pautke, Christoph; Opelz, Christine; Westphal, Ines; Drosse, Inga; Schwager, Joanna; Bauss, Frieder; Ehrenfeld, Michael; Schieker, Matthias

2010-11-01

Osteonecrosis of the jaw has been reported in patients receiving high doses of intravenous nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates (N-BPs) because of malignant disease. The exact pathomechanisms have been elusive and questions of paramount importance remain unanswered. Recent studies have indicated toxic effects of bisphosphonates on different cell types, apart from osteoclast inhibition. Multipotent stem cells play an important role in the processes of wound healing and bone regeneration, which seem to be especially impaired in the jaws of patients receiving high doses of N-BPs. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of different bisphosphonate derivatives and dose levels combined with varying pH levels on the mesenchymal stem cells in vitro. The effect of 2 N-BPs (zoledronate and ibandronate) and 1 non-N-BP (clodronate) on immortalized mesenchymal stem cells was tested at different concentrations, reflecting 1, 3, and 6 months and 1, 3, 5, and 10 years of exposure to standard oncology doses of the 2 N-BPs and equimolar concentrations of clodronate at different pH values (7.4, 7.0, 6.7, and 6.3). Cell viability and activity were analyzed using a WST assay. Cell motility was investigated using scratch wound assays and visualized using time-lapse microscopy. Both types of bisphosphonates revealed remarkable differences. Zoledronate and ibandronate showed a dose- and pH-dependent cellular toxicity. Increasing concentrations of both N-BPs and an acidic milieu led to a significant decrease in cell viability and activity (P < .01), with more pronounced effects for zoledronate. Equimolar concentrations of clodronate did not affect the cell survival or activity significantly, apart from the effect of pH reduction itself, which was also detectable in the patients in the control group who did not receive bisphosphonates. Our results have shown that high concentrations of N-BPs and a local acidic milieu, which is commonly present in infections of

A Qualitative Analysis of Substance Use among Liberian Youth: Understanding Behaviors, Consequences, and Protective Factors Involving School Youth and the School Milieu

PubMed Central

Pullen, Samuel J; Petruzzi, Liana; Lange, Brittany CL; Parnarouskis, Lindsey; Dominguez, Silvia; Harris, Benjamin; Quiterio, Nicole; Durham, Michelle P; Lekpeh, Gondah; Manobah, Burgess; Slopadoe, Siede P; Diandy, Veronique C; Payne, Arthur J; Henderson, David C; Borba, Christina PC

2016-01-01

Objective Substance use is a significant and common problem among school-aged youths throughout Africa. Like other countries on this continent, the West-African nation of Liberia is recovering from civil war. A well-educated population of young people is critical to the recovery efforts and long-term success of Liberia. Substance use by school-aged youths has important public health consequences that could undermine Liberia’s post-conflict recovery efforts. We wanted to better understand the culturally significant themes and subthemes related to substance use among youths attending public schools in Monrovia, Liberia. Methods A qualitative research design was used to collect data from 72 students attending public school in Monrovia, Liberia. Nine focus groups of 6–8 students from three public schools were facilitated using a semi-structured format to guide discussions on substance use. Student narratives were translated and re-occurring themes and subthemes were coded and analyzed. Results Four emergent themes described in this study were: Behaviors associated with substance use Consequences associated with individual use Consequences of substance use that affected the school milieu School-related factors that were protective from substance use. Subthemes associated with substance use included concealment of substances, intoxication and disruption of the classroom environment, expulsion from school, school drop-out, and school as protective against substance use. Conclusion Liberian school-aged youths described important themes and subthemes associated with substance use occurring within the school milieu. These data have germane public health ramifications, and could help inform larger epidemiologic study methods and public health interventions for Liberia and countries with similar profiles. PMID:27158680

Sjögren syndrome and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder co-exist in a common autoimmune milieu.

PubMed

Carvalho, Diogo C; Tironi, Tauana S; Freitas, Denise S; Kleinpaul, Rodrigo; Talim, Natalia C; Lana-Peixoto, Marco A

2014-08-01

The relationship between Sjögren's syndrome (SS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is not completely understood. We report two patients with both conditions and review 47 other previously reported cases meeting currently accepted diagnostic criteria, from 17 articles extracted from PubMed. Out of 44 patients whose gender was informed, 42 were females. Mean age at onset of neurological manifestation was 36.2 years (10-74). Serum anti-AQP4-IgG was positive in 32 patients, borderline in 1, and negative in 4. Our Case 1 was seronegative for AQP4-IgG and had no non-organ-specific autoantibodies other than anti-SSB antibodies. Our Case 2 had serum anti-AQP4, anti-SSA/SSB, anti-thyreoglobulin and anti-acethylcholine-receptor antibodies, as well as clinical hypothyreoidism, but no evidence of myasthenia gravis. Our Cases and others, as previously reported in literature, with similar heterogeneous autoimmune response to aquaporin-4, suggest that SS and NMO co-exist in a common autoimmune milieu which is not dependent on aquaporin-4 autoimmunity.

Coulometrische titration von hypochloriten und chloraten.

PubMed

Gründler, P; Holzapfel, H

1970-03-01

Hypochlorite was determined by direct coulometric titration with iron(II) in an acetate buffered solution. Chlorate was titrated with titanium(III) in 2M hydrochloric acid. Amperometric indication with one and two electrodes, respectively, was used. Mixtures of hypochlorites and chlorates, e.g., in industrial electrolytes, may be analysed. On a déterminé l'hypochlorite par titrage coulométrique direct avec le fer(II) dans une solution tamponnée à l'acétate. On a titré le chlorate avec le titane(III) en acide chlorhydrique 2M. On a utilisé l'indication ampérométrique une et deux électrodes respectivement. On peut analyser des mélanges d'hypochlorites et de chlorates, par exemple dans des électrolytes industriels.

Changes of intracellular milieu with fatigue or hypoxia depress contraction of skinned rabbit skeletal and cardiac muscle.

PubMed Central

Godt, R E; Nosek, T M

1989-01-01

1. Maximal calcium-activated force (Fmax) and calcium sensitivity were markedly decreased in detergent-skinned fibres from skeletal and cardiac muscle by solutions that mimicked the total milieu changes associated with fatigue and hypoxia. Further experiments determined the relative contribution of each of the individual changes in milieu. 2. Both Ca2+ sensitivity and Fmax of skeletal and cardiac fibres were decreased with increased [H+] or inorganic phosphate (Pi). These effects were greater in cardiac muscle. 3. Decreasing MgATP over the range observed with fatigue and hypoxia (6.8-4.7 mM) had no effect on Fmax or Ca2+ sensitivity of either muscle type. 4. Decreasing phosphocreatine (PCr: 15-1 mM) increased Fmax but had little effect on Ca2+ sensitivity in both muscle types. In cardiac fibres, the effect on Fmax could be mimicked by inhibition of endogenous creatine kinase. 5. ADP (0.7 mM) increased Fmax and Ca2+ sensitivity, while AMP (0.06 mM) slightly increased Fmax but had no effect on Ca2+ sensitivity of either skeletal or cardiac fibres. 6. Creatine (25 mM) had no significant effect on either Ca2+ sensitivity or Fmax of skeletal and cardiac muscle fibres. At higher levels (50 mM), however, creatine depressed Fmax and slightly altered Ca2+ sensitivity. 7. Thiophosphorylation of myosin P light chains (phosphorylatable light chains of myosin) in rabbit psoas fibres had no effect on Ca2+ sensitivity, yet slightly but significantly increased Fmax under fatigue conditions. 8. Reducing the affinity for ATP hydrolysis (by adding ADP, AMP and creatine) over the range calculated for fatigue/hypoxia (60-45 kJ/mol) produced the enhancement in Fmax expected from added ADP and AMP in cardiac but not skeletal muscle, indicating that changes in affinity influence Fmax of skeletal muscle. Reducing affinity produced little change in Ca2+ sensitivity of skeletal muscle. In contrast, the change produced in cardiac muscle was greater than that expected from addition of ADP and

Race differences in obesity and its relationship to the sex hormone milieu.

PubMed

Perry, Arlette C; Martin, Lorena

2014-09-01

A sexual dimorphism exists in which increased abdominal and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) - found in women and marked by low sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and high bioavailable testosterone (BT) - is related to the metabolic risk profile. In men, increased BT is related to decreased abdominal obesity and a decrease in the metabolic risk profile. In women, race differences have been found in androgenic sex steroids including SHBG and BT as well as central fat distribution, creating inherently greater metabolic risk for certain populations. Estrogen and estrogen receptor isoforms play a role in fat deposition and distribution and may influence the changes that occur during the menopausal transition. Androgenic sex steroids serve a mediating role, influencing VAT accumulation and its associated metabolic risk factors while VAT also serves a mediating role influencing the androgenic sex steroid-metabolic risk relationship in women. Furthermore, androgenic sex steroids and VAT may independently contribute to the variance in several metabolic variables associated with cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and their antecedent conditions such as the metabolic syndrome. Race has been shown to modify the relationship between androgenic sex steroids and metabolic variables associated with risk for diabetes in Black and White women. Further research is warranted to examine the mechanisms involved in race differences. Total adiposity and central fat distribution in accordance with changes in the hormone and metabolic milieu influence breast cancer risk, which varies by race and menopausal status. These findings have broader implications for the study of health promotion/disease prevention in women.

Short-Range Temporal Interactions in Sleep; Hippocampal Spike Avalanches Support a Large Milieu of Sequential Activity Including Replay

PubMed Central

Mahoney, J. Matthew; Titiz, Ali S.; Hernan, Amanda E.; Scott, Rod C.

2016-01-01

Hippocampal neural systems consolidate multiple complex behaviors into memory. However, the temporal structure of neural firing supporting complex memory consolidation is unknown. Replay of hippocampal place cells during sleep supports the view that a simple repetitive behavior modifies sleep firing dynamics, but does not explain how multiple episodes could be integrated into associative networks for recollection during future cognition. Here we decode sequential firing structure within spike avalanches of all pyramidal cells recorded in sleeping rats after running in a circular track. We find that short sequences that combine into multiple long sequences capture the majority of the sequential structure during sleep, including replay of hippocampal place cells. The ensemble, however, is not optimized for maximally producing the behavior-enriched episode. Thus behavioral programming of sequential correlations occurs at the level of short-range interactions, not whole behavioral sequences and these short sequences are assembled into a large and complex milieu that could support complex memory consolidation. PMID:26866597

The Milieu Manager: A Nursing Staffing Strategy to Reduce Observer Use in the Acute Psychiatric Inpatient Setting.

PubMed

Triplett, Patrick; Dearholt, Sandra; Cooper, Mary; Herzke, John; Johnson, Erin; Parks, Joyce; Sullivan, Patricia; Taylor, Karin F; Rohde, Judith

Rising acuity levels in inpatient settings have led to growing reliance on observers and increased the cost of care. Minimizing use of observers, maintaining quality and safety of care, and improving bed access, without increasing cost. Nursing staff on two inpatient psychiatric units at an academic medical center pilot-tested the use of a "milieu manager" to address rising patient acuity and growing reliance on observers. Nursing cost, occupancy, discharge volume, unit closures, observer expense, and incremental nursing costs were tracked. Staff satisfaction and reported patient behavioral/safety events were assessed. The pilot initiatives ran for 8 months. Unit/bed closures fell to zero on both units. Occupancy, patient days, and discharges increased. Incremental nursing cost was offset by reduction in observer expense and by revenue from increases in occupancy and patient days. Staff work satisfaction improved and measures of patient safety were unchanged. The intervention was effective in reducing observation expense and improved occupancy and patient days while maintaining patient safety, representing a cost-effective and safe approach for management of acuity on inpatient psychiatric units.

Cognitive milieu therapy and physical activity: experiences of mastery and learning among patients with dual diagnosis.

PubMed

Borge, L; Røssberg, J I; Sverdrup, S

2013-12-01

During the last decade, there has been a growing interest in implementing cognitive milieu therapy (CMT) in psychiatric institutions. However, there is a lack of systematic evaluations from patients' point of view. The aim of this study was to explore and describe patient perceptions of essential experiences of mastery, learning alternative ways of thinking, and acquiring new skills through CMT and physical activity in an inpatient setting. Qualitative interviews were carried out with 20 patients with dual diagnosis. A hermeneutic - phenomenological approach was used in the data collection and analysis. The results showed that the learning climate in the unit was important. This included a proactive attitude from the staff, focusing on cooperation on equal terms between patients and staff, and a professional methodological approach through CMT. The optimal balance between staff-induced activities and patient initiatives was not easy to obtain. Patients appreciated both the education provided by the staff and learning from other patients. The cognitive method was sometimes experienced as too theoretical and difficult to understand. Physical activity, however, was experienced as 'concrete' and providing practical knowledge. It motivated patients to establish new habits and provided opportunities for the development of mastery together with other patients. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Effets de la taille finie du milieu non-linéaire sur le bruit quantique spatial généré par un oscillateur paramétrique optique confocal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lopez, L.; Gatti, A.; Maitre, A.; Treps, N.; Gigan, S.; Fabre, C.

2004-11-01

Nous nous intéressons au comportement spatial des fluctuations quantiques à la sortie d'un oscillateur paramétrique optique dégénéré en modes transverses, sous le seuil. En vue de futures expériences, nous étudions les effets de la diffraction dans le milieu paramétrique sur le bruit quantique spatial. Nous montrons que l'on voit apparaître une aire de cohérence de taille finie pour les effets quantiques transverses.

Rocky milieu: Challenges of effective integration of clinical risk management into hospitals in Iran

PubMed Central

Farokhzadian, Jamileh; Nayeri, Nahid Dehghan; Borhani, Fariba

2015-01-01

Healthcare risks and clinical risks have been recognized as a major challenge in healthcare. Clinical risks can never be eliminated and can have serious adverse effects on patient safety. Thus, a clinical risk management (CRM) system has been introduced in the healthcare system to improve quality services. The aim of this study was to explore nurses’ experiences related to the challenges of implementing CRM in the organizational context. This qualitative study was based on the conventional content analysis of the Lundman and Graneheim approach, and it consisted of 22 interview sessions with 20 nurses. The purposive sampling method was used to choose the participants from three hospitals affiliated with the Kerman University of Medical Sciences. We used semi-structured interviews and review of relevant documents to collect data. The analysis of the data led to the emergence of “rocky milieu” as the main theme, and it consisted of three categories that, along with their subcategories, explain the challenges of implementing CRM. The three categories and their subcategories were (1) organizational culture and leadership challenges (decision and performance of leadership and cultural resistance to change), (2) limitation of resources (financial, human, and physical and equipment resources), and (3) variations and complexities in working conditions (the emotional, psychological, and social atmosphere and the heaviness of workload). Attempts have been made to establish CRM through clinical governance and accreditation, but organizational challenges have created a rocky milieu for implementing CRM. However, from an organizational context concerning the suitability of healthcare in Iran, there are obvious needs to move toward quality improvement and safe practices through the effective implementation of CRM. PMID:25968444

Cross-Milieu Terrorist Collaboration: Using Game Theory to Assess the Risk of a Novel Threat.

PubMed

Ackerman, Gary A; Zhuang, Jun; Weerasuriya, Sitara

2017-02-01

This article uses a game-theoretic approach to analyze the risk of cross-milieu terrorist collaboration-the possibility that, despite marked ideological differences, extremist groups from very different milieus might align to a degree where operational collaboration against Western societies becomes possible. Based upon theoretical insights drawn from a variety of literatures, a bargaining model is constructed that reflects the various benefits and costs for terrorists' collaboration across ideological milieus. Analyzed in both sequential and simultaneous decision-making contexts and through numerical simulations, the model confirms several theoretical arguments. The most important of these is that although likely to be quite rare, successful collaboration across terrorist milieus is indeed feasible in certain circumstances. The model also highlights several structural elements that might play a larger role than previously recognized in the collaboration decision, including that the prospect of nonmaterial gains (amplification of terror and reputational boost) plays at least as important a role in the decision to collaborate as potential increased capabilities does. Numerical simulation further suggests that prospects for successful collaboration over most scenarios (including operational) increase when a large, effective Islamist terrorist organization initiates collaboration with a smaller right-wing group, as compared with the other scenarios considered. Although the small number of historical cases precludes robust statistical validation, the simulation results are supported by existing empirical evidence of collaboration between Islamists and right- or left-wing extremists. The game-theoretic approach, therefore, provides guidance regarding the circumstances under which such an unholy alliance of violent actors is likely to succeed. © 2016 Society for Risk Analysis.

Microfluidic Examination of the "Hard" Biomolecular Corona Formed on Engineered Particles in Different Biological Milieu.

PubMed

Weiss, Alessia C G; Kempe, Kristian; Förster, Stephan; Caruso, Frank

2018-04-18

The formation of a biomolecular corona around engineered particles determines, in large part, their biological behavior in vitro and in vivo. To gain a fundamental understanding of how particle design and the biological milieu influence the formation of the "hard" biomolecular corona, we conduct a series of in vitro studies using microfluidics. This setup allows the generation of a dynamic incubation environment with precise control over the applied flow rate, stream orientation, and channel dimensions, thus allowing accurate control of the fluid flow and the shear applied to the proteins and particles. We used mesoporous silica particles, poly(2-methacryloyloxyethylphosphorylcholine) (PMPC)-coated silica hybrid particles, and PMPC replica particles (obtained by removal of the silica particle templates), representing high-, intermediate-, and low-fouling particle systems, respectively. The protein source used in the experiments was either human serum or human full blood. The effects of flow, particle surface properties, incubation medium, and incubation time on the formation of the biomolecular corona formation are examined. Our data show that protein adhesion on particles is enhanced after incubation in human blood compared to human serum and that dynamic incubation leads to a more complex corona. By varying the incubation time from 2 s to 15 min, we demonstrate that the "hard" biomolecular corona is kinetically subdivided into two phases comprising a tightly bound layer of proteins interacting directly with the particle surface and a loosely associated protein layer. Understanding the influence of particle design parameters and biological factors on the corona composition, as well as its dynamic assembly, may facilitate more accurate prediction of corona formation and therefore assist in the design of advanced drug delivery vehicles.

Alginate-gelatin encapsulation of human endothelial cells promoted angiogenesis in in vivo and in vitro milieu.

PubMed

Nemati, Sorour; Rezabakhsh, Aysa; Khoshfetrat, Ali Baradar; Nourazarian, Alireza; Biray Avci, Çığır; Goker Bagca, Bakiye; Alizadeh Sardroud, Hamed; Khaksar, Majid; Ahmadi, Mahdi; Delkhosh, Aref; Sokullu, Emel; Rahbarghazi, Reza

2017-12-01

Up to present, many advantages have been achieved in the field of cell-based therapies by applying sophisticated methodologies and delivery approaches. Microcapsules are capable to provide safe microenvironment for cells during transplantation in a simulated physiological 3D milieu. Here, we aimed to investigate the effect of alginate-gelatin encapsulation on angiogenic behavior of human endothelial cells over a period of 5 days. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were encapsulated by alginate-gelatin substrate and incubated for 5 days. MTT and autophagy PCR array analysis were used to monitor cell survival rate. For in vitro angiogenesis analysis, cell distribution of Tie-1, Tie-2, VEGFR-1, and VEGFR-2 were detected by ELISA. In addition to in vitro tubulogenesis assay, we monitored the expression of VE-cadherin by Western blotting. The migration capacity of encapsulated HUVECs was studied by measuring MMP-2 and MMP-9 via gelatin zymography. The in vivo angiogenic potential of encapsulated HUVECs was analyzed in immune-compromised mouse implant model during 7 days post-transplantation. We demonstrated that encapsulation promoted HUVECs cell survival and proliferation. Compared to control, no significant differences were observed in autophagic status of encapsulated cells (p > 0.05). The level of Tie-1, Tie-2, VEGFR-1, and VEGFR-2 were increased, but did not reach to significant levels. Encapsulation decreased MMP-2, -9 activity and increased the VE-cadherin level in enclosed cells (p < 0.05). Moreover, an enhanced in vivo angiogenic response of encapsulated HUVECs was evident as compared to non-capsulated cells (p < 0.05). These observations suggest that alginate-gelatin encapsulation can induce angiogenic response in in vivo and in vitro conditions. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lutte contre la mortalité maternelle en milieu rural: décentralisation de l’offre des soins obstétricaux d’urgence au Burkina Faso

PubMed Central

Kaboré, Souleymane; Méda, Clément Ziemlé; Sombié, Issiaka; Savadogo, Léon Blaise; Karama, Robert; Bakouan, Koabié; Ouédraogo, Djénéba Sanon; Coulibaly, Norbert; Kargougou, Robert Lucien; Lankoandé, Emanuel; Sawadogo, Ramatou windsouri; Gosch, Karen

2017-01-01

Introduction Pour combler la pénurie en sages-femmes (SF) dans le district sanitaire de Tougan au Burkina Faso, il a été conçu une stratégie de décentralisation de l'offre des soins obstétricaux d'urgence basée sur des interventions ponctuelles de prise en charge des complications obstétricales au niveau des centres de santé (CS) en milieu rural par des SF. La présente étude a eu pour objectif de décrire cette expérience et d'analyser ses résultats. Méthodes Il s'agit d'une étude intervention de type transversal analytique basée sur une revue des données routinières de l'ensemble des parturientes prises en charge de 2013 à 2015. La collecte des données s'est déroulée du 5 au 20 janvier 2016. Un test Chi2, des rapports de cotes (OR) et leurs intervalles de confiance à 95% ont été calculés. Résultats Au total 416 parturientes présentant des complications obstétricales ont été prises en charge par les SF de zone. L'âge moyen des parturientes était de 26.4 ans. La distance médiane parcourue pour prendre en charge les parturientes était de quinze km pour un délai moyen d'intervention de 21.1 minutes (déviation standard = 7.13 minutes). Les dystocies représentaient la moitié (50.7%, IC95% = 45.8-55.6) des complications prises en charge suivies des hémorragies (26.4%, IC95% = 22.3%-31.0%). Plus de 77% des interventions avaient abouti à la résolution locale des complications obstétricales. Enfin, le résultat de l'intervention était fonction de la pathologie prise en charge (OR = 5.88; p < 0.001). Conclusion Cette stratégie a permis d'apporter une réplique à l'absence de SF dans les CS périphériques du district sanitaire de Tougan. Dans ce contexte particulier, cette intervention pourrait apporter une solution alternative au manque de ressources humaines en santé en milieu rural. PMID:28979638

[Encouraging healthy habits by playing with the child in the family milieu: the snakes and ladders game].

PubMed

Sánchez Echenique, M; Pèlach, R

2002-01-01

In recent decades society has been undergoing many changes and these have had a strong incidence on infant morbidity and mortality. Diseases that have practically vanished due to the impact of vaccinations and the improvement of the standard of living have given way to others derived from the changes in eating habits and life style; accidents, on the other hand, have come to be the first cause of morbidity and mortality after the first year of life has been passed. Strategies must be directed towards avoiding the causes of this new way of falling ill. We present a Spanish version of a game similar to "snakes and ladders" called "the healthy goose", which encourages healthy living habits. In order that the child should internalize safe habits by means of the game, certain squares in the game have been replaced by positive drawings, in which the child carries out healthy activities, receiving prizes for these, and others in which risky activities are performed, which are penalized. The areas dealt with are: habits (nutrition, sleep, study, games, etc.), Accidents at home, road safety (pedestrian, cyclist and automobile traveler), and swimming pools. The game starts with a child of 3-4 years and the goal is reached as a healthy adolescent. Given that the variation in personalities is enormous, we believe the family milieu should be the complement to legislative and educational measures and general campaigns in the means of communication, since it is what the child knows best and where he learns his deepest attitudes. This game could be a help to parents in this difficult task.

Nanoparticles that reshape the tumor milieu create a therapeutic window for effective T cell therapy in solid malignancies.

PubMed

Zhang, Fan; Stephan, Sirkka B; Ene, Chibawanye I; Smith, Tyrel T; Holland, Eric C; Stephan, Matthias T

2018-05-14

A major obstacle to the success rate of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR-) T cell therapy against solid tumors is the microenvironment antagonistic to T cells that solid tumors create. Conventional checkpoint blockade can silence lymphocyte anti-survival pathways activated by tumors, but because they are systemic, these treatments disrupt immune homeostasis and induce autoimmune side effects. Thus, new technologies are required to remodel the tumor milieu without causing systemic toxicities. Here we demonstrate that targeted nanocarriers that deliver a combination of immune-modulatory agents can remove pro-tumor cell populations and simultaneously stimulate anti-tumor effector cells. We administered repeated infusions of lipid nanoparticles coated with the tumor-targeting peptide iRGD and loaded with a combination of a PI3K inhibitor to inhibit immune-suppressive tumor cells and an alpha-GalCer agonist of therapeutic T cells to synergistically sway the tumor microenvironment of solid tumors from suppressive to stimulatory. This treatment created a therapeutic window of two weeks, enabling tumor-specific CAR-T cells to home to the lesion, undergo robust expansion, and trigger tumor regression. CAR-T cells administered outside this therapeutic window had no curative effect. The lipid nanoparticles we used are easy to manufacture in substantial amounts, and we demonstrate that repeated infusions of them are safe. Our technology may therefore provide a practical and low-cost strategy to potentiate many cancer immunotherapies used to treat solid tumors, including T cell therapy, vaccines, and BITE platforms. Copyright ©2018, American Association for Cancer Research.

Analysis of a cultural consensus model of two good-life sub-domains--health & well-being and migration & socioeconomic milieu--in three population groups in Croatia.

PubMed

Peternel, Lana; Malnar, Ana; Klarić, Irena Martinović

2015-07-01

In this study the construct of a 'good life' was explored among upper secondary school senior pupils and their parents and teachers by applying cultural consensus model analysis. A total of 469 students, 474 parents and 158 teachers from four Croatian cities participated in the study, which was conducted in 2011/2012. The information collected through interviewing and free-listing during the first phase of the study was used to create a set of structured questionnaire questions as a part of the survey in the second phase of data collection. The results are reported on two good-life sub-domains: 'health & well-being' and 'migration & socioeconomic milieu'. The results indicate heterogeneity of the sample groups, incomplete inter-generational transmission of cultural values and examples of two sub-groups that resist cultural norms and do not comply with the dominant 'competence-as-sharing' paradigm. The value of testing the cultural consensus model based on the emic approach and locally significant phenomena is demonstrated for planning and conducting holistic anthropological research.

A grid matrix-based Raman spectroscopic method to characterize different cell milieu in biopsied axillary sentinel lymph nodes of breast cancer patients.

PubMed

Som, Dipasree; Tak, Megha; Setia, Mohit; Patil, Asawari; Sengupta, Amit; Chilakapati, C Murali Krishna; Srivastava, Anurag; Parmar, Vani; Nair, Nita; Sarin, Rajiv; Badwe, R

2016-01-01

Raman spectroscopy which is based upon inelastic scattering of photons has a potential to emerge as a noninvasive bedside in vivo or ex vivo molecular diagnostic tool. There is a need to improve the sensitivity and predictability of Raman spectroscopy. We developed a grid matrix-based tissue mapping protocol to acquire cellular-specific spectra that also involved digital microscopy for localizing malignant and lymphocytic cells in sentinel lymph node biopsy sample. Biosignals acquired from specific cellular milieu were subjected to an advanced supervised analytical method, i.e., cross-correlation and peak-to-peak ratio in addition to PCA and PC-LDA. We observed decreased spectral intensity as well as shift in the spectral peaks of amides and lipid bands in the completely metastatic (cancer cells) lymph nodes with high cellular density. Spectral library of normal lymphocytes and metastatic cancer cells created using the cellular specific mapping technique can be utilized to create an automated smart diagnostic tool for bench side screening of sampled lymph nodes. Spectral library of normal lymphocytes and metastatic cancer cells created using the cellular specific mapping technique can be utilized to develop an automated smart diagnostic tool for bench side screening of sampled lymph nodes supported by ongoing global research in developing better technology and signal and big data processing algorithms.

ABO blood groups: A risk factor for left atrial and left atrial appendage thrombogenic milieu in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation.

PubMed

Fu, Yuan; Li, Kuibao; Yang, Xinchun

2017-08-01

Previous studies have identified ABO blood groups as predictors of thromboembolic diseases. In patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), however, potential association between ABO blood groups and the risk of left atrial (LA) and/or left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombogenic milieu (TM) has not been established. This is a retrospective case-control study that included 125 consecutive patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) plus TM, as evidenced by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) during a period from1 January 2010 to 31 December 2016. The controls were selected randomly from 1072 NVAF without TM at a 1:2 ratio. Potential association between ABO blood groups and TM was analyzed using multivariate logistic regression analysis. The risk of TM was higher in patients with blood group A (33.6% vs. 20.2% in non-A blood groups, P=0.005). After adjusting for age, sex, oral anticoagulant use, AF type and duration, and relevant functional measures (e.g., NT-pro BNP level, left atrium diameter, and left ventricular ejection fraction), blood group A remained associated with an increased risk of TM (OR=2.99, 95% CI 1.4-6.388, P=0.005). Blood group A is an independent risk factor for TM in NVAF patients. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Intravitreal invading cells contribute to vitreal cytokine milieu in proliferative vitreoretinopathy

PubMed Central

El-Ghrably, I; Dua, H.; Orr, G.; Fischer, D.; Tighe, P.

2001-01-01

AIM—To examine the contribution of infiltrating cells in the local production of cytokines within the vitreous of patients with proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR).
METHODS—The presence of mRNA coding for IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, IL-1α, TNFα, IFNγ, IL-12, and HPRT was investigated in 25 vitreous samples from patients with PVR, 11 vitreous samples from patients with retinal detachment (RD) not complicated by PVR, and 10 vitreous samples from patients with macular hole (MH). A quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) using an internal competitor was used to investigate these samples. From these samples, 15 PVR, 8 RD, and 8 MH were analysed for the protein levels of the same cytokines using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Spearman correlation was used to test any association between mRNA and cytokine protein levels, as an indicator of the contribution these cells make to the intravitreal cytokine milieu.
RESULTS—A strong correlation was found between mRNA and their respective cytokine levels (protein products) for IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, IL-1α, TNFα, IFNγ (Spearman r = 0.83, 0.73, 0.67, 0.91, 0.73, and 0.73 respectively), but not for IL-12. The median levels of IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, and IFNγ mRNA and their respective cytokines were significantly higher (p <0.05) in patients with PVR than in those with macular hole. There was no statistically significant difference in the median levels of IL-1α mRNA between PVR and MH but the cytokine IL-1α was detected at a significantly higher level in PVR compared with MH patients. Between PVR and RD patients, there was no statistically significant difference in mRNA levels for all the investigated cytokines (p >0.05) except for IL-6 where there was a statistical significance (p= 0.038). In contrast, the median levels of IL-6, IL-8, and IL-1β cytokines were significantly higher (p <0.05) in patients with PVR than in those with RD, whereas for IL-1α and IFNγ no

The placental immune milieu is characterized by a Th2- and anti-inflammatory transcription profile, regardless of maternal allergy, and associates with neonatal immunity.

PubMed

Abelius, Martina S; Janefjord, Camilla; Ernerudh, Jan; Berg, Göran; Matthiesen, Leif; Duchén, Karel; Nilsson, Lennart J; Jenmalm, Maria C

2015-05-01

How maternal allergy affects the systemic and local immunological environment during pregnancy and the immune development of the offspring is unclear. Expression of 40 genes was quantified by PCR arrays in placenta, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), and cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMC) from 7 allergic and 12 non-allergic women and their offspring. Placental gene expression was dominated by a Th2-/anti-inflammatory profile, irrespectively of maternal allergy, as compared to gene expression in PBMC. p35 expression in placenta correlated with fetal Tbx21 (ρ = -0.88, P < 0.001) and IL-5 expression in PBMC with fetal galectin1 (ρ = 0.91, P < 0.001). Increased expression of Th2-associated CCL22 in CBMC preceded allergy development. Gene expression locally and systemically during pregnancy was partly associated with the offspring's gene expression, possibly indicating that the immunological milieu is important for fetal immune development. Maternal allergy was not associated with an enhanced Th2 immunity in placenta or PBMC, while a marked prenatal Th2 skewing, shown as increased CCL22 mRNA expression, might contribute to postnatal allergy development. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Release of hydrogen peroxide and antioxidants by the coral Stylophora pistillata to its external milieu

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Armoza-Zvuloni, R.; Shaked, Y.

2014-09-01

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a common reactive oxygen species, plays multiple roles in coral health and disease. Elevated H2O2 production by the symbiotic algae during stress may result in symbiosis breakdown and bleaching of the coral. We have recently reported that various Red Sea corals release H2O2 and antioxidants to their external milieu, and can influence the H2O2 dynamics in the reef. Here, we present a laboratory characterization of H2O2 and antioxidant activity release kinetics by intact, non-stressed Stylophora pistillata. Experimenting with bleached and non-bleached corals and different stirring speeds, we explored the sources and modes of H2O2 and antioxidant release. Since H2O2 is produced and degraded simultaneously, we developed a methodology for resolving the actual H2O2 concentrations released by the corals. H2O2 and antioxidant activity steadily increased in the water surrounding the coral over short periods of 1-2 h. Over longer periods of 5-7 h, the antioxidant activity kept increasing with time, while H2O2 concentrations were stabilized at ~ 1 μM by 1-3 h, and then gradually declined. Solving for H2O2 release, corals were found to release H2O2 at increasing rates over 2-4 h, and then to slow down and stop by 5-7 h. Stirring was shown to induce the release of H2O2, possibly since the flow reduces the thickness of the diffusive boundary layer of the coral, and thus increases H2O2 mass flux. Antioxidant activity was released at similar rates by bleached and non-bleached corals, suggesting that the antioxidants did not originate from the symbiotic algae. H2O2, however, was not released from bleached corals, implying that the symbiotic algae are the source of the released H2O2. The observed flow-induced H2O2 release may aid corals in removing some of the internal H2O2 produced by their symbiotic algae, and may possibly assist in preventing coral bleaching under conditions of elevated temperature and irradiance.

Key endothelial cell angiogenic mechanisms are stimulated by the circulating milieu in sickle cell disease and attenuated by hydroxyurea

PubMed Central

Lopes, Flavia C. M.; Traina, Fabiola; Almeida, Camila B.; Leonardo, Flavia C.; Franco-Penteado, Carla F.; Garrido, Vanessa T.; Colella, Marina P.; Soares, Raquel; Olalla-Saad, Sara T.; Costa, Fernando F.; Conran, Nicola

2015-01-01

As hypoxia-induced inflammatory angiogenesis may contribute to the manifestations of sickle cell disease, we compared the angiogenic molecular profiles of plasma from sickle cell disease individuals and correlated these with in vitro endothelial cell-mediated angiogenesis-stimulating activity and in vivo neovascularization. Bioplex demonstrated that plasma from patients with steady-state sickle cell anemia contained elevated concentrations of pro-angiogenic factors (angiopoietin-1, basic fibroblast growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor-D and placental growth factor) and displayed potent pro-angiogenic activity, significantly increasing endothelial cell proliferation, migration and capillary-like structure formation. In vivo neovascularization of Matrigel plugs was significantly greater in sickle cell disease mice than in non-sickle cell disease mice, consistent with an up-regulation of angiogenesis in the disease. In plasma from patients with hemoglobin SC disease without proliferative retinopathy, anti-angiogenic endostatin and thrombospondin-2 were significantly elevated. In contrast, plasma from hemoglobin SC individuals with proliferative retinopathy had a pro-angiogenic profile and more significant effects on endothelial cell proliferation and capillary formation than plasma from patients without retinopathy. Hydroxyurea therapy was associated with significant reductions in plasma angiogenic factors and inhibition of endothelial cell-mediated angiogenic mechanisms and neovascularization. Thus, individuals with sickle cell anemia or hemoglobin SC disease with retinopathy present a highly angiogenic circulating milieu, capable of stimulating key endothelial cell-mediated angiogenic mechanisms. Combination anti-angiogenic therapy to prevent the progression of unregulated neovascularization and associated manifestations in sickle cell disease, such as pulmonary hypertension, may be indicated; furthermore, the

Acid Gradient across Plasma Membrane Can Drive Phosphate Bond Synthesis in Cancer Cells: Acidic Tumor Milieu as a Potential Energy Source

PubMed Central

Dhar, Gautam; Sen, Suvajit; Chaudhuri, Gautam

2015-01-01

Aggressive cancers exhibit an efficient conversion of high amounts of glucose to lactate accompanied by acid secretion, a phenomenon popularly known as the Warburg effect. The acidic microenvironment and the alkaline cytosol create a proton-gradient (acid gradient) across the plasma membrane that represents proton-motive energy. Increasing experimental data from physiological relevant models suggest that acid gradient stimulates tumor proliferation, and can also support its energy needs. However, direct biochemical evidence linking extracellular acid gradient to generation of intracellular ATP are missing. In this work, we demonstrate that cancer cells can synthesize significant amounts of phosphate-bonds from phosphate in response to acid gradient across plasma membrane. The noted phenomenon exists in absence of glycolysis and mitochondrial ATP synthesis, and is unique to cancer. Biochemical assays using viable cancer cells, and purified plasma membrane vesicles utilizing radioactive phosphate, confirmed phosphate-bond synthesis from free phosphate (Pi), and also localization of this activity to the plasma membrane. In addition to ATP, predominant formation of pyrophosphate (PPi) from Pi was also observed when plasma membrane vesicles from cancer cells were subjected to trans-membrane acid gradient. Cancer cytosols were found capable of converting PPi to ATP, and also stimulate ATP synthesis from Pi from the vesicles. Acid gradient created through glucose metabolism by cancer cells, as observed in tumors, also proved critical for phosphate-bond synthesis. In brief, these observations reveal a role of acidic tumor milieu as a potential energy source and may offer a novel therapeutic target. PMID:25874623

Conception d'un outil d'aide a la decision de technologies de fabrication additive en milieu aeronautique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buvat, Gael

La fabrication additive offre une opportunite d'amelioration des methodes de productions de pieces. Cependant, les technologies de fabrication additive sont diverses, les fournisseurs de services sont multiples et peu de personnel est forme pour operer sur ces technologies. L'objectif de cette etude est d'emettre une suggestion de concepts d'outils d'aide a la decision de technologies, de materiaux et de post-traitements de fabrication additive en milieu aeronautique. Trois sous-objectifs sont employes. Premierement, la definition des criteres de decision de technologies, de materiaux et de post-traitements de fabrication additive. Ensuite, l'elaboration d'un cahier des charges de l'outil d'aide a la decision en accord avec les besoins industriels du secteur aeronautique. Et enfin, la suggestion de trois concepts d'outils d'aide a la decision et leur evaluation par comparaison au cahier des charges etabli. Les criteres captures aupres de 11 industriels concernent des criteres de couts, de qualite, de conception et de delai d'obtention. Ensuite, nous avons elabore un cahier des charges permettant de reunir les besoins des industriels du secteur aeronautique selon trois axes qui constituent la colonne vertebrale des outils d'aide a la decision : une suggestion d'interface utilisateur, une suggestion de bases de donnees et un moteur de selection des technologies, des materiaux et des post-traitements de fabrication additive. La convivialite de l'interface utilisateur, l'evaluation de la qualite souhaitee par l'utilisateur et la prise en compte des etudes de cas realisees par le moteur de selection sont exemples de besoins que nous avons identifie au sein de cette etude. Nous avons ensuite transcrit ces besoins en specifications techniques pour permettre une evaluation du niveau de satisfaction des industriels au travers d'un pointage des trois concepts suggeres. Ces trois concepts d'outils d'aide a la decision ont ete realises respectivement grâce a Microsoft Excel

Facteurs de risque de faible poids de naissance en milieu semi-rural de Kamina, République Démocratique du Congo

PubMed Central

Kangulu, Ignace Bwana; Umba, Elie Kilolo Ngoy; Nzaji, Michel Kabamba; Kayamba, Prosper Kalenga Mwenze

2014-01-01

Introduction Le faible poids de naissance constitue un problème majeur de santé publique, aussi bien dans les pays développés que dans les pays en développement, de par son ampleur et sa forte association avec la morbidité et la mortalité infantiles. Méthodes Il s’agit d’une étude cas-témoins rétrospective menée sur les différents facteurs de risque de faible poids de naissance(FPN) en milieu semi-rural de Kamina chez les accouchées et leurs nouveau-nés respectifs enregistrés de la période allant de janvier 2009 à décembre 2010. Résultats Cette étude a répertorié 69 cas des nouveau-nés de FPN sur 483 accouchements enregistrés (14,3%). Les facteurs associés au FPN déterminés dans ce travail sont l’âge maternel inférieur à 18 ans (OR=7,62, IC=3.46-16.8) et supérieur à 35 ans (OR=2,04;IC=0.91-4.46), la primiparité(OR=2,48;IC=1.18-5.21) et le non suivi des consultations prénatales (OR=5,50;IC=2.00-15.03), la prématurité avec grossesse âgée de moins de 37 semaines d’aménorrhée, la grossesse multiple (OR=30,94) et le sexe féminin du nouveau-né. Conclusion Cette étude a démontré que l’âge maternel inférieur à 18 ans et supérieur à 35 ans, le non suivi des consultations prénatales, la primiparité et la prématurité, la grossesse multiple et le sexe féminin du nouveau-né sont les facteurs associés au faible poids de naissance. PMID:25237417

Approche aux soins en milieu communautaire à des adultes ayant une déficience développementale

PubMed Central

Osmun, W.E.; Chan, Nelson; Solomon, Robert

2015-01-01

Résumé Objectif Passer en revue les obligations d’ordre médical, éthique et juridique dans les soins aux adultes ayant une déficience développementale (DD) qui vivent dans la communauté. Sources des données Des recherches ont été faites dans Google et MEDLINE à l’aide des mots disabled, disability, vulnerable et community. Les lois pertinentes ont fait l’objet d’un examen. Message principal Le traitement d’un patient ayant une DD varie en fonction de facteurs comme la pathogenèse du problème actuel du patient, ses affections concomitantes, la gravité de ses déficiences et ses soutiens sociaux habituels. Bien que l’on s’entende sur les bienfaits du transfert des soins institutionnels vers des soins communautaires pour les patients ayant une DD, il s’est révélé difficile de leur dispenser des soins de grande qualité en milieu communautaire. Par ailleurs, il existe peu de travaux de recherche sur les façons d’offrir efficacement des soins aux adultes ayant une DD. En tant que professionnels des soins primaires, les médecins de famille sont souvent le premier point de contact pour les patients et sont à la fois responsables de la coordination et de la continuité des soins. Compte tenu de l’importance accrue accordée aux soins préventifs et à la détection précoce des maladies, la participation active du patient revêt aussi une grande importance. Les valeurs et les objectifs du patient sont des éléments essentiels à prendre en compte, même s’ils vont à l’encontre de la bonne santé du patient ou des propres valeurs du clinicien. Les lois s’appliquant aux personnes vulnérables varient d’une province à l’autre. Par conséquent, l’obligation de signaler des mauvais traitements suspectés pourrait différer selon que la personne vulnérable habite dans un centre de soins ou la communauté, que la personne qui soupçonne le comportement abusif est un fournisseur de services ou un professionnel de la santé ou

The functional and structural borders between the CSF- and blood-dominated milieus in the choroid plexuses and the area postrema of the rat.

PubMed

Krisch, B

1986-01-01

In the borderline area between the hemal milieu of the choroid plexuses (PC) and the interstitial cerebrospinal-fluid (CSF) compartment, ground substances displaying increased amounts of basal lamina-like material and containing negatively charged sulfated glycosaminoglycans appear to be endowed with selective properties. They may function as a sieve or filtration barrier gradually controlling the passage of substances between the two milieus, depending on their charge and molecular weight. Special structural features and functional properties of ependymal cells are associated with such bordering structures. These ependymal cells are transitional elements between choroid epithelium and ciliated ependymal cells. As judged from experiments with horseradish peroxidase and conventional electron microscopy, occluding junctions at the basal pole of these cells prevent a rapid alteration in the milieu conditions, enabling gradual change from hemal to CSF composition near the bases of these transitional ependymal cells. The borderline structures between the hemal milieu of the PC and the area postrema are established by leptomeningeal cells which face a hemal milieu, are endowed with conspicuous tight junctions, and produce a flocculent substance, the light-microscopic equivalent of which is PAS positive. These structures probably establish an effective barrier between the two milieus of different composition. The functional characteristics and the morphology of the meningeal cells facing the hemal milieu of neurohemal regions resemble closely the neurothelial cells, which are interposed between the CSF milieu and the hemal milieu in the dura mater. The present results suggest that the location between the hemal and the CSF milieu is decisive for the transformation of leptomeningeal cells into "neurothelial" elements.

Signes cliniques rencontrés chez l'enfant malnutri dans un milieu minier: cas de la ville de Lubumbashi et ses environs

PubMed Central

Musimwa, Aimée Mudekereza; Kanteng, Gray Wakamb; Kitoko, Hermann Tamubango; Luboya, Oscar Numbi

2016-01-01

Introduction La malnutrition reste à ce jour un problème majeur de santé publique, notamment dans les pays en voie de développement. Cette étude a eu pour objectif de déterminer les signes cliniques observés chez l'enfant mal nourri, admis dans une unité de prise en charge. Méthodes Il s'agit d'une étude descriptive transversale, effectuée de juillet 2013 à décembre 2014. 311 cas ont été colligés (182 malnutris et 129 biens nourris), par échantillonnage exhaustif, avec un dépistage actif des enfants malnutris et biens nourris. Le diagnostic est fait cliniquement associé à l'anthropométrie. Résultats Les signes les plus enregistrés chez les enfants malnutris étaient dominés par la toux ou pneumopathie dans 42,50%, la gastroentérite dans 38,55%, les lésions dermatologiques ont présenté 22,91% de cas, la fièvre dans 22,35% de cas, 19,0% des enfants ont présenté les œdèmes, 8,38% d'enfants ont présenté la pâleur, enfin hépatomégalie et splénomégalie sont les signes les moins fréquents avec respectivement 1,68% et 2,89%. Tandis que les enfants en bonne état nutritionnel ont présenté plus la splénomégalie et la fièvre qui seraient liés au paludisme. Conclusion Les enfants malnutris vivant dans un milieu minier présentent une symptomatologie qui ne pas différents de autres enfants mal nourris à l'exception de l'hépatomégalie et splénomégalie qui sont très rare chez nos mal nourris. PMID:27642407

The influence of ethnic concordance and discordance on verbal reports and nonverbal behaviours of pain.

PubMed

Hsieh, Annie Y; Tripp, Dean A; Ji, Li-Jun

2011-09-01

This study's aim was to examine the influence of ethnic concordance on Chinese participants' pain report and nonverbal pain expression in a laboratory setting. Participants (n=102) were exposed to a cold pressor task under 1 of 2 conditions: Chinese milieu (n=52; participants exposed to Chinese experimenters and language), or European Canadian milieu (n=50; participants exposed to Euro-Canadian experimenters and English language). A reference group with 86 Euro-Canadian participants, exposed to the Euro-Canadian milieu only, was included for comparison. The Chinese groups did not differ on pain intensity during the pain task. However, Chinese participants in the Chinese milieu reported significantly higher affective pain and displayed more nonverbal behaviour of pain than the Chinese participants in the Euro-Canadian milieu. In addition, compared to the Euro-Canadian group, both Chinese groups reported higher pain intensity during the pain task and greater affective pain after immersion. The results demonstrated that an ethnically concordant milieu is associated with increased nonverbal pain displays and affective pain report. These findings suggest that research on ethnic disparities in pain treatment should examine ethnic concordance between observer and individual in pain. Copyright © 2011 International Association for the Study of Pain. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

S100A8 and S100A9 are messengers in the crosstalk between epidermis and dermis modulating a psoriatic milieu in human skin

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

Lee, Young; Jang, Sunhyae; Min, Jeong-Ki

2012-07-13

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Upregulated S100A8 and/or S100A9 in psoriasis epidermis induce cytokine production. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Upregulated S100A8 and/or S100A9 in psoriasis epidermis induce migration of immune cells. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Upregulated S100A8 and/or S100A9 in psoriasis epidermis induce angiogenesis. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer S100A8 and/or S100A9 may play a role in the crosstalk between epidermis and dermis in psoriasis. -- Abstract: S100A8 and S100A9 are members of the S100A8 protein family that exist as homodimers and heterodimers in neutrophils, monocytes, and macrophages. Recent studies have shown the pivotal roles of S100A8 and S100A9 in the propagation of inflammation and keratinocyte proliferation in psoriasis. We found significant up-regulationmore » of S100A8 and S100A9 secretion from keratinocytes in psoriatic lesions. To mimic the in vivo secretory conditions of S100A8 and S100A9 from psoriatic epidermal keratinocytes, we used the culture medium (CM) of S100A8 and S100A8/A9 adenovirus-transduced keratinocytes to investigate the functions of S100A8 and S100A9. We detected increased levels of various pro-inflammatory cytokines in the CM, including IL-8 and TNF-{alpha}, which are involved in aggravating psoriatic skin lesions, and IL-6 and members of the CXCL family of pro-angiogenic cytokines. The CM increased immune cell migration and increased angiogenesis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. In conclusion, we found that the upregulated production of S100A8 and S100A9 by psoriatic epidermal keratinocytes activated adjacent keratinocytes to produce several cytokines. Moreover, S100A8 and S100A9 themselves function as pro-angiogenic and chemotactic factors, generating a psoriatic milieu in skin.« less

EPR-Spin Trapping and Flow Cytometric Studies of Free Radicals Generated Using Cold Atmospheric Argon Plasma and X-Ray Irradiation in Aqueous Solutions and Intracellular Milieu.

PubMed

Uchiyama, Hidefumi; Zhao, Qing-Li; Hassan, Mariame Ali; Andocs, Gabor; Nojima, Nobuyuki; Takeda, Keigo; Ishikawa, Kenji; Hori, Masaru; Kondo, Takashi

2015-01-01

intracellular milieu is discussed.

EPR-Spin Trapping and Flow Cytometric Studies of Free Radicals Generated Using Cold Atmospheric Argon Plasma and X-Ray Irradiation in Aqueous Solutions and Intracellular Milieu

PubMed Central

Uchiyama, Hidefumi; Zhao, Qing-Li; Hassan, Mariame Ali; Andocs, Gabor; Nojima, Nobuyuki; Takeda, Keigo; Ishikawa, Kenji; Hori, Masaru; Kondo, Takashi

2015-01-01

intracellular milieu is discussed. PMID:26318000

Hyperglycemia and anthocyanin inhibit quercetin metabolism in HepG2 cells

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A high glucose (Glu) milieu promotes generation of reactive oxygen species, which may not only cause cellular damage, but also modulate phase II enzymes that are responsible for the metabolism of flavonoids. Thus, we examined the effect of a high Glu milieu on quercetin (Q) metabolism in HepG2 cells...

Frame Factors and a Quality Assurance Agency in an 'Embryonic' Higher Education System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hopkin, Anthony

2004-01-01

Using the Affiliations Unit of the University of Botswana as a case study, this paper explores how the operational milieu of an External Quality Assurance Agency (EQAA) impacts on its role and function. This milieu is described and selected frame factors are identified and evaluated, including the size of the country; the role of a hegemonic…

Frame Factors and a Quality Assurance Agency in an "Embryonic" Higher Education System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hopkin, Anthony G.

2004-01-01

Using the Affiliations Unit of the University of Botswana as a case study, this paper explores how the operational milieu of an External Quality Assurance Agency (EQAA) impacts on its role and function. This milieu is described and selected frame factors are identified and evaluated, including the size of the country; the role of a hegemonic…

Staff countertransference reactions in the hospital treatment of borderline patients.

PubMed

Brown, L J

1980-11-01

The aim of this paper is to elucidate a systematic framework for understanding the nature of the borderline patient's reactions to the hospital milieu and for comprehending the responses of hospital staff to such patients. The theory and principles of the therapeutic milieu or milieu therapy are not the focus of this paper; rather, the unique ways in which borderline patients create their own reality and interact with that reality are examined. The borderline patients considered here constitute a group who present severe character pathology, including pronounced distortions in reality testing, marked paranoid trends, minimal distinction between self and others, and multiple hospitalizations that have proven ineffectual. Overall, these patients are functioning at a level more regressed than most borderline patients and their histories often reveal many psychotic episodes. Because of their severe psychopathology, long-term intensive treatment in a hospital setting, termed "reconstructive hospital treatment" by Zee (1975), is indicated. The goal of such treatment is to augment the patient's failing ego functioning, to help the patient develop constructive alternatives for dealing with conflict, and to aid the patient develop constructive alternatives for dealing with conflict, and to aid the patient in embarking upon a psychoanalytically oriented exploration of his highly conflicted object relations. Without the use of the hospital as a treatment modality these patients tend to continue in a downward spiral of destructive relationships. These remarks, therefore, are addressed to the effect severely ill borderline patients have upon the hospital milieu and to the impact of the milieu upon them.

Les infections à Pseudomonas aeruginosa au service des maladies infectieuses du CHU YO, Burkina Faso: à propos deux cas

PubMed Central

Mamoudou, Savadogo; Lassina, Dao; Fla, Koueta

2015-01-01

Nous rapportons deux cas d'infection à Pseudomonas aeruginosa: un cas de méningite et un cas d'infection urinaire. Les auteurs rappellent qu’à côté des étiologies classiques des méningites et des infections urinaires, des germes résistants comme Pseudomonas aeruginosa peuvent être responsables d'infections à localisation méningées et urinaires et dont il faut connaître pour une bonne prise en charge. Le traitement de ces infections requiert un antibiogramme au regard de la grande capacité de résistance de Pseudomonas aeruginosa en milieu hospitalier. La limitation des gestes invasifs et l'application rigoureuse des mesures de prévention des infections en milieu hospitalier contribueront à lutter efficacement contre ces infections en milieu de soins. PMID:26491521

Proceedings of the Air Power Symposium on the Role of Airpower in Low Intensity Conflict (9th) Held at Maxwell AFB, Alabama on 11-13 March 1985,

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-05-01

it stands it is not promis- ing. Taking a strict constructionist view of it, we can put aside speculation about what the role of air power could be...34 special operations. The nature of revolution and counterrevolution places the focus of battle in the political- social milieu and psychological...of gravity of such conflicts is more likely to be in political- social milieu rather than the "battlefield." This is made more ambiguous by the fact

[The interpreter in an intercultural clinical milieu].

PubMed

Vissandjée, B; Ntetu, A L; Courville, F; Breton, E R; Bourdeau, M

1998-05-01

The public's diversified language profile means that nursing practice must adjust to provide the same quality of care to all clients, no matter what language they speak. To improve quality and quantity of information exchanged in the nurse-client-interpreter triangle, the authors have investigated the type of information likely to be filtered and studied the various factors underlying the interpreter's choice to filter information. The authors also analyzed the values interpreters assign to information and the factors that form the background for filtering, including mistrust. The authors suggest adequately preparing interpreters; using interpreters' expertise; and developing an appropriate training program for intercultural interpreters to enable them to better function within health care institutions.

[Video technology--a medium for milieu therapy?].

PubMed

Wormstall, H; Günthner, A; Balg, S; Schwärzler, F

2000-07-01

Video technology has been in use in the psychiatric field for more than 20 years for diagnostic, scientific, co-therapeutic or educational purposes. However, little is known of its potential applications and impact as an instrument in psychotherapy or environmental therapy. For this reason a new cinematographic project applying widespread video technology in environmental therapy, too, has been launched. All patients at our psychiatric hospital are involved in film selection, can cooperate at different organizational levels, and have regular opportunities to see films. The technical, the organizational and, in particular, the legal preconditions are set out, followed by a report on experience gained in use of video films within the setting of a psychiatric hospital. Reference is also made to economic aspects, therapeutic effects and contraindications.

Milieu and Observer Differences in Environmental Associations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lowenthal, David; Riel, Marquita

A project undertaken to advance the systematic analysis of public responses, attitudes, opinions, preferences, and values relating to the environment is discussed in this report, the seventh in a series of eight. The reports fall into two general categories: five describe and compare responses to representative milieus in New York, Boston,…

Temptation and Seduction in the Technological Milieu

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

van der Laan, J. M.

2004-01-01

Jacques Ellul's work on propaganda provides the basis for this analysis of life in technology. Advertising and the mass media rely on temptation and seduction and create a constant flow of propaganda, all of which serve the technological system. Propaganda aims to condition and regulate us so that we participate in and adapt ourselves to a desired…

The influence of environmental factors on bone tissue engineering.

PubMed

Szpalski, Caroline; Sagebin, Fabio; Barbaro, Marissa; Warren, Stephen M

2013-05-01

Bone repair and regeneration are dynamic processes that involve a complex interplay between the substrate, local and systemic cells, and the milieu. Although each constituent plays an integral role in faithfully recreating the skeleton, investigators have long focused their efforts on scaffold materials and design, cytokine and hormone administration, and cell-based therapies. Only recently have the intangible aspects of the milieu received their due attention. In this review, we highlight the important influence of environmental factors on bone tissue engineering. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Langage, normes et repertoire en milieu urbain africain: L'indoubill (Language, Norms, and Repertoire in the African Urban Milieu: Indoubill).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sesep, N'Sial Bal-Nsien

A study explored, from a sociolinguistic perspective, the phenomenon of indoubill, patterns and usage of a special variety of Lingala, among a group of delinquent urban youth in Kinshasa (Zaire). It is proposed that: (1) at a particular moment in its social history, the community experienced sociocultural change that brought with it a special…

Profil pressionnel de l’adolescent en milieu scolaire à Lubumbashi, République Démocratique du Congo

PubMed Central

Kakoma, Placide Kambola; Muyumba, Emmanuel Kiyana; Mukeng, Clarence Kaut; Musung, Jaques Mbaz; Kakisingi, Christian Ngama; Mukuku, Olivier; Nkulu, Dophra Ngoy

2018-01-01

Introduction L'objectif de cette étude était de donner le profil de la pression artérielle (PA) des adolescents âgés de 15 à 19 ans en milieu scolaire à Lubumbashi, République Démocratique du Congo. Méthodes il s'agit d'une étude transversale, portant sur les adolescents âgés de 15 à 19 ans au moyen d'un échantillonnage aléatoire des écoles secondaires de Lubumbashi durant les années scolaires 2013-2014, 2014-2015 et 2015-2016. Trois mesures de PA étaient effectuées le même jour. Résultats 1766 adolescents âgés de 15-19 ans ont été inclus parmi eux 995 étaient de sexe féminin et 771 garçons. Les garçons avaient significativement une pression artérielle systolique élevée que les filles dans les tranches d'âges de 17, 18 et 19 ans. La pression artérielle diastolique n'était pas différente statistiquement dans toutes les tranches d'âges dans les deux sexes. Par contre, dans les deux sexes, la pression artérielle systolique été en corrélation significative avec le poids, la taille, l'indice de masse corporelle, le tour de taille et la fréquence cardiaque. Quant à la pression artérielle diastolique, des corrélations significatives étaient retrouvées avec le poids et l'indice de masse corporelle chez les filles alors que la fréquence cardiaque était en corrélation significative dans les deux sexes. Discussion Au cours de notre étude, il était question de déterminer les valeurs moyennes de PA et sa corrélation avec les paramètres anthropométriques, la FC et le poids de naissance chez les adolescents d'âge compris entre 15 et 19 ans. Notre étude a révélé des valeurs moyennes de PAS chez les garçons qui étaient plus élevées que les filles statistiquement significatives dans les tranches d'âges de 17, 18 et 19 ans alors que les valeurs moyennes de PAD n'avait pas de différence statistiquement significative dans toutes les tranches d'âges dans les deux sexes. Harrabi et al. [16], dans leur étude incluant

Enjoyment in nursing--experiences from the clinical milieu.

PubMed

Wilkes, Lesley; Doull, Michelle; Ng Chok, Harrison; Mashingaidze, Gladys

2016-03-01

To present findings from a qualitative study which aimed to explore and describe experiences of enjoyment in nursing. The topic of 'enjoying nursing' is often part of job satisfaction surveys conducted in the workplace and in some studies it has been found to be the prime reason that nurses stay in the workforce. However, there is little research which explores the concept fully. Qualitative in-depth interviews. Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with 17 nurses in a local health district in Sydney, Australia. Data from digitally recorded individual interviews were transcribed and the content was analysed for themes relating to aspects of nursing that were enjoyable and others that were not. The major themes to emerge from the data describing enjoyment of nursing were: doing for others, supporting others and educating others. Themes that identified not enjoying nursing were related to the aggression of others, i.e. patients/clients, families or other staff in the workplace, as well as system issues. System issues referred mainly to the need for support from other nurses and management. Nurses still enjoy caring for patients and teaching others to care. This is the reason they remain in nursing even though the system and people are not always supportive or encouraging. Managers and educators can use these results to assist them to understand the importance of giving support to nursing staff to optimise their enjoyment of caring for their patients/clients. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Le pompage optique naturel dans le milieu astrophysique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pecker, J.-C.

The title of this lecture abstracts only a part of it : the importance in astrophysics of the study of non-LTE situations has become considerable, as well in the stellar atmospheres as, still more, in the study of fortuitous coincidences as a mechanism of formation of emission line nebular spectra, or of molecular interstellar « masers ». Another part of this talk underlines the role of Kastler in his time, and describes his warm personality through his public reactions in front of the nuclear armement, of the Viet-Nam and Algerian wars, of the problems of political refugees... Kastler was a great scientist ; he was also a courageous humanist. 1976 : Les accords nucléaires du Brésil : allocution d'ouverture (19 mars). Colloque sur le sujet ci-dessus. 1976 : La promotion de la culture dans le nouvel ordre économique international, allocution à l'occasion d'une table ronde sur ce thème par l'UNESCO (23-27 juin 1976) ; « Sciences et Techniques », octobre 1976. 1979 : La bête immonde (avec J.-C. Pecker), « Le Matin », 20 mars. 1979 : Appel à nos ministres (avec J.-C. Pecker), « Le Monde », 13 décembre. 1979 : Le flou, le ténébreux, l'irrationnel (avec J.-C. Pecker), « Le Monde », 14 septembre. 1980 : Education à la paix, Préface, in : Publ. UNESCO. 1981 : Le vrai danger, « Le Monde », 6 août 1981. 1982 : Nucléaire civil et militaire, « Le Monde », 1er juin 1982. 1982 : Les scientifiques face à la perspective d'holocauste nucléaire (texte inédit). Le titre de cette communication en résume seulement une partie : l'importance prise en astrophysique par l'analyse des situations hors ETL est devenue considérable, qu'il s'agisse des atmosphères stellaires, ou plus encore, des coïncidences fortuites de la formation des spectres d'émission nébulaires, ou des « masers » moléculaires interstellaires. Une autre partie de cet exposé souligne le rôle de Kastler dans son époque, et décrit sa personnalité généreuse à travers ses réactions publiques face à l'armement nucléaire, aux guerres de Viet-Nam et d'Algérie, aux problèmes des réfugiés politiques... Kastler était un grand savant, mais aussi un homme courageux.

Functional interrelationships between the kallikrein-related peptidases family and the classical kinin system in the human neutrophil.

PubMed

Ehrenfeld, Pamela; Bhoola, Kanti D; Matus, Carola E; Figueroa, Carlos D

2018-06-19

In the human neutrophil, kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) have a significant functional relationship with the classical kinin system as a kinin B1 receptor agonist induces secretion of KLK1, KLK6, KLK10, KLK13 and KLK14 into the medium. Secretion of KLK1, the kinin-forming enzyme, may perpetuate formation of kinin in the inflammatory milieu by hydrolyzing extravasated kininogens present in tissue edema. Secretion of KLKs into the inflammatory milieu, induced by kinins or other proinflammatory mediators, provides the human neutrophil with a wide range of molecular interactions to hydrolyze different cellular and extracellular matrix components, which may be of critical relevance in different mechanisms involving inflammation.

Proton beam therapy and the convoluted pathway to incorporating emerging technology into routine medical care in the United States.

PubMed

Steinberg, Michael L; Konski, Andre

2009-01-01

The pathway that emerging medical technologies take to incorporation into routine medical care in the United States is a product of the social, economic, and political milieu. Our review explores how this milieu brought the incorporation of proton beam therapy into the healthcare delivery system to its current point. We look at how new technologies are presently accepted into this system and discuss the emerging trends--such as the use of evidence-based assessment of technology, coverage with evidence policies, and comparative effectiveness analysis--that are affecting proton beam therapy's effort to finds its place in the pantheon of available medical treatments for patients with cancer.

Modelisation spatio-temporelle de la vulnerabilite du milieu a la degradation des sols en milieu semi-aride a partir de donnees radar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sylla, Daouda

Defined as a process that reduces the potential of soil production or the usefulness of natural resources, soil degradation is a major environmental problem which affects over 41 % of the land and, over 80 % of people affected by this phenomenon live in developing countries. The general objective of the present project is the characterisation of different types of land use and land cover and the detection of their spatio-temporal changes from radar data (ERS-1, RADARSAT-1 and ENVISAT) for a spatio-temporal modeling of environmental vulnerability to soil degradation in semi-arid area. Due to the high sensitivity of the radar signal to the observing conditions of the sensor and the target, a partition of the radar images with respect to their angular configurations (23° and [33°-35°-47°]) and to environmental conditions (wet and dry) was first performed. A good characterisation and a good temporal evolution of the four types of land use and land cover of interest are obtained with different levels of contrast depending on the incidence angles and environmental conditions. In addition to pixel-based approach used for change detection (images differences, Principal component analysis), a monitoring of land cover from an object-oriented approach which focused on two types of land cover is developed. The method allows a detailed mapping of bare soil occurrences as a function of environmental conditions. Finally, using different sources of information, a modeling of the environmental vulnerability to soil degradation is performed in the South-west of Niger from the probabilistic fusion rule of Dempster-Shafer. The resulting decision maps are statistically acceptable at 93 % and 91 % with Kappa values of 86 % and 84 %, for respectively dry and wet conditions. Besides, they are used to produce a global map of the environmental vulnerability to soil degradation in this semi-arid area. Key-words: Environmental vulnerability to soil degradation; data fusion; radar images; land use changes; semi-arid environment; South-west of Niger.

Activite locomotrice de souris isolees, de deux lignees consanguines, dans un environnement semi-naturel ou en cages d'elevage.

PubMed

Le Pape, G; Lassalle, J M

1979-10-01

Des enregistrements continus d'activité locomotrice ont été effectués sur des souris mâles isolées des lignées Balb/c et C57bl/6, vivant en cages d'élevage ou en milieu semi- naturel. Les résultats montrent que les différences entre ces deux situations ne sont pas perçues de la même façon par les animaux des deux lign'ees: alors qu'en cages d'élevage les souris des deux lignées experiment la même quantité totale d'activaté, en milieu semi-naturel les souris Balb/c sont plus actives que les C57bl/6. En outre, l≐s différences observées entre les lignées pour la repartition de l'activité au cours du nycthèmere s'inversent lorsque l'on passe d'une situation à l'autre. L'étude de la variabilité fait aparaître une dispersion plus grande des performances dans la lignée C57bl/6 en cages d'élevage, alors qu'en milieu semi-naturel la dispersion est plus chez Bal/c. Copyright © 1979. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Quality of Work Life, Nurses' Intention to Leave the Profession, and Nurses Leaving the Profession: A One-Year Prospective Survey.

PubMed

Lee, Ya-Wen; Dai, Yu-Tzu; Chang, Mei Yeh; Chang, Yue-Cune; Yao, Kaiping Grace; Liu, Mei-Chun

2017-07-01

To examine the associations among quality of work life, nurses' intention to leave the profession, and nurses leaving the profession. A prospective study design was used. Participants were 1,283 hospital nurses with a purposive sampling in Taiwan. The self-reported questionnaire consisted of three questionnaires: the Chinese version of the Quality of Nursing Work Life scale, an intention-to-leave profession questionnaire, and a demographic questionnaire. Records of nurses leaving the profession were surveyed 1 year later. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. As many as 720 nurses (56.1%) had tendencies to leave their profession. However, only 31 nurses (2.5%) left their profession 1 year later. Nurses' intention to leave the profession mediated the relationship between the milieu of respect and autonomy, quality of work life, and nurses leaving the profession. The milieu of respect and autonomy describing the quality of work life predicts the nurses' intention to leave the profession, and together these predict nurses leaving the profession. This study illustrates that nurse managers could provide effective interventions to ameliorate the milieu of respect and autonomy aspect of quality of work life to prevent nurses from leaving their profession. © 2017 Sigma Theta Tau International.

Communiquer en milieu interculturel (Communicating in an Intercultural Environment).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yanaprasart, Patchareerat, Ed.

2002-01-01

The articles, written in French, in this issue refer to research and intercultural practices with regard to confrontational situations between two or more cultural systems. The titles are as follows: "La culture universitaire comme culture en soi" (The University Culture as a Culture in Its Own Right) (Aline Gohard-Radenkovic);…

Literacy in a Non-Literacy Milieu: The Indian Scenario.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Saraf, S. N.

Section 1 of this report develops the thesis that while illiteracy is deeply entrenched in certain areas of India, it is also confined to specific pockets of the population. Recognition of this fact should be the basis, according to the author, of literacy strategy. Section 2 provides a history of the levels of priority given to adult education…

The Roosevelt years: crucial milieu for Carl Rogers' innovation.

PubMed

Barrett-Lennard, Godfrey T

2012-02-01

This study explores broad features of political culture and event of the 1930s and World War 2 years, viewed in relation to the emergence and rapid early growth of the new therapy of Carl Rogers. The paper traces Rogers' early professional life and examines distinctive emphases in sociopolitical thought and development during Franklin D. Roosevelt's leadership as President over the prolonged emergency of the Great Depression and the crisis of the War. The study includes a focus on the President's own outlook and style, pertinent New Deal innovations, and wartime needs. Twelve features of this larger context are discriminated as together having vital importance for the new therapy and its founder. The congruent courses of the macrocontext and of Rogers' innovation are followed to the ending of Roosevelt's life. Direct causation is not attributed, but the evidence adduced newly points to particular contours of a larger environment favorable for the expression of Rogers' values and rare ability. In sum, the author concludes that a synergy of highly conducive historical circumstance and individual exceptionality contributed to the philosophical underpinnings, attitudinal values and early momentum of Rogers' client-centered therapy.

Value orientations and social attitudes in the holistic milieu.

PubMed

Höllinger, Franz

2017-06-01

Based on a representative population survey for Germany this article investigates whether engagement in holistic activities is associated with privatized lifestyles and lack of social responsibility or with countercultural orientations and base-democratic political commitment. To analyse this question, respondents who are engaged in holistic activities are divided into three groups that are compared with each other as well as with Christians and non-religious people. The findings show that the three holistic groups are characterized by clearly different attitudinal patterns: Respondents engaged in body-mind-spirit activities have an affinity to self-directed ways of life, post-materialism and environmentalism. Holistic Christians try to combine the Christian ideal of altruism and post-materialist orientations. Those who are attracted only to magical-occult practices are primarily concerned with individualistic self-improvement and correspond more to the image of the hedonist consumer at the esoteric marketplace. © London School of Economics and Political Science 2017.

Teaching Your Tot to Talk: Using Milieu Teaching Strategies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Curiel, Emily S. L.; Sainato, Diane M.

2016-01-01

Both of these toddlers struggle with communication. Parents and practitioners working with very young children often struggle to find ways to enhance their toddlers' communication skills. They may question: When do I teach? What should I teach? Where do I teach? How do I teach? This article will provide suggestions and techniques to support the…

[Course and treatment of infantile asthma in our milieu].

PubMed

Scrigni, A; Grenoville, M; de Sarasqueta, P; Verna, R; Breiter, P; Jimenez, C

1993-01-01

We studied the clinical evolution and therapeutic approach of 50 children who were treated at the Emergency Room for an asthmatic crisis. We observed a high frequency of early onset of asthma before one year of age (n:16), constant symptoms between the crisis (n:34) and previous admissions before the present crisis (n:34) and previous admissions before the present crisis (n:16). Most cases did not have a family doctor. In 16 cases, the present crisis had four or more days of duration. We observed a frequent administration of suboptimal doses of bronchodilator and antiinflammatory drugs. These results show a non satisfactory treatment of infantile asthma.

Étude par détection de photons des processus électroniques au sein d'une jonction tunnel dans un milieu moléculaire

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perronet, K.

2005-03-01

Analysis of the luminescence induced by a STM (scanning tunneling microscope) permits to get insights into the electronic processes taking place in a single nanoscopic tunnel junction. We studied a Au(111)/Au junction under vacuum (UHV) and immersed in a molecular medium. The study under UHV reveals the influence of spatial variations of surface local density of states (LDOS) on the luminescence. The emission at the solid-liquid interface is characterized and the role played by the dielectric function is shown. Time correlations between the emitted single photons are then studied. Depending on the liquid immersing the junction, a photon bunching can occur. We link this bunching with structural changes of the junction induced by the presence of a diffusing molecule. If the HOMO LUMO gap of the molecule is small enough, resonant tunnelling paths exist and tunnelling-electron bunching occurs. Finally, the influence of a self-assembled monolayer on the substrate is investigated. Boundings between triphenylene derivatives and Au(111) are too weak, but with chemisorbed alcanethiols, molecular resolution is reached both on the STM image and on the photon map. We show that the contrast on photon map comes from the modulation of the LDOS spatial extension into the barrier due to the S Au bond. The elaboration of organic multilayers is considered as a route for observing the electroluminescence of a single molecule, isolated from the substrate by thiols and to study correlations of electronic origin. We have already optically characterised such a layer using C{60}. La luminescence induite par STM (microscopie à effet tunnel) est une source d'informations d'une grande richesse sur les processus électroniques au sein d'un objet nanoscopique individuel. Nous nous sommes intéressés à une jonction Au/Au(111) sous vide puis dans un milieu moléculaire. L'étude sous vide a permis de montrer l'influence des variations spatiales des densités d'états de la surface. L

A propos de quelques experiences de francais fonctionnel en milieu hispanaphone (A Commentary on Experiments in Functional French in a Spanish-Speaking Milieu)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baltzer, Francois

1978-01-01

A discussion of the adaptation of audiovisual methods to respond to various specific needs in Mexico City. Some of the topics discussed are: meeting needs of people involved in special fields, particularly science, technology and economics; and the use of television for functional French instruction. (AMH)

Hyperglycemia and Anthocyanin Inhibit Quercetin Metabolism in HepG2 Cells.

PubMed

Hashimoto, Naoto; Blumberg, Jeffrey B; Chen, C-Y Oliver

2016-02-01

A high glucose (Glu) milieu promotes generation of reactive oxygen species, which may not only cause cellular damage, but also modulate phase II enzymes that are responsible for the metabolism of flavonoids. Thus, we examined the effect of a high Glu milieu on quercetin (Q) metabolism in HepG2 cells. HepG2 cells were grown for 3 days in Glu ranging from 5.5 to 50 mmol/L and/or cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G) ranging from 0 to 25 μmol/L. Subsequently, the capacity of HepG2 cells to metabolize Q was assessed for up to 16 h. Q metabolites were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Four major Q metabolites were observed in the culture medium and inside the HepG2 cells. Three of these metabolites appear to be sulfated forms of Q or methylated Q, and one was a methylated Q. These metabolites and Q itself were reduced or tended to be reduced in cells grown in a high Glu compared to a normal Glu medium. Addition of C3G or superoxide dismutase plus catalase did not prevent or enhance reduction of Q metabolites. In vitro, a hyperglycemic milieu decreases the production of the principal Q metabolites in HepG2 cells, mediated through mechanisms independent of oxidative stress.

Patterns of Responding in the Word Associations of West African Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sharp, Donald; Cole, Michael

1972-01-01

Studies conducted among the Kpelle of north central Liberia whose present cultural milieu offers unique possibilities for studying the role of particular experiential factors, particularly education, on the development of paradigmatic response. (Authors)

“Nox4 and diabetic nephropathy: With a friend like this who needs enemies”

PubMed Central

Gorin, Yves; Block, Karen

2013-01-01

Oxidative stress has been linked to the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy, the complication of diabetes in the kidney. NADPH oxidases of the Nox family are a major source of reactive oxygen species in the diabetic kidney and are critical mediators of redox signaling in glomerular and tubulointerstitial cells exposed to the diabetic milieu. Here, we present an overview of the current knowledge related the understanding of the role of Nox catalytic and regulatory subunits in the processes that control mesangial cell, podocyte and tubulointerstitial cell injury induced by hyperglycemia and other predominant factors enhanced in the diabetic milieu, including the renin-angiotensin system and transforming growth factor-ß. The role of the Nox isoform, Nox4, in the redox processes that alter renal biology in diabetes will be highlighted. PMID:23528476

Can a focused staff training programme improve the ward atmosphere and patient satisfaction in a forensic psychiatric hospital? A pilot study.

PubMed

Nesset, Merete Berg; Rossberg, Jan Ivar; Almvik, Roger; Friis, Svein

2009-03-01

The main aim of the study was to describe whether staff training and lectures on milieu therapy to nursing staff can change the treatment environment, as perceived by the patients, in a desirable direction. The study was approved by the Regional Ethics Committee for Medical Research. To measure the patients' perceptions of the treatment environment we used the Ward Atmosphere Scale (WAS). The ward atmosphere was evaluated three times during a 12-month period. Additionally, the patients completed five questions concerning satisfaction with the treatment environment. Between the first and the second ward evaluation the nursing staff was given 3 weeks of lectures on different aspects of milieu therapy. The nursing staff completed the WAS and three satisfaction items. The study revealed a change in desired direction after education in five of the six key subscales of the WAS (Involvement, Support, Practical orientation, Angry and aggressive behaviour and Order and organization). Staff control was the only subscale with no changes. The patients also reported an increase in satisfaction. The study revealed no major changes in the staff scores. The present study included only a small number of patients and examined the changes in only one psychiatric department; hence it could be argued that the results cannot be generalized to equivalent populations within the forensic services. The study indicated that it is possible to improve the ward atmosphere in a desirable direction by a 3-week training programme for nursing staff about important aspects of milieu therapy.

Mesenchymal stem cells derived from bone marrow of diabetic patients portrait unique markers influenced by the diabetic microenvironment.

PubMed

Phadnis, Smruti M; Ghaskadbi, Surendra M; Hardikar, Anandwardhan A; Bhonde, Ramesh R

2009-01-01

Cellular microenvironment is known to play a critical role in the maintenance of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs). It was uncertain whether BM-MSCs obtained from a 'diabetic milieu' (dBM-MSCs) offer the same regenerative potential as those obtained from healthy (non-diabetic) individuals (hBM-MSCs). To investigate the effect of diabetic microenvironment on human BM-MSCs, we isolated and characterized these cells from diabetic patients (dBM-MSCs). We found that dBM-MSCs expressed mesenchymal markers such as vimentin, smooth muscle actin, nestin, fibronectin, CD29, CD44, CD73, CD90, and CD105. These cells also exhibited multilineage differentiation potential, as evident from the generation of adipocytes, osteocytes, and chondrocytes when exposed to lineage specific differentiation media. Although the cells were similar to hBM-MSCs, 6% (3/54) of dBM-MSCs expressed proinsulin/C-peptide. Emanating from the diabetic microenvironmental milieu, we analyzed whether in vitro reprogramming could afford the maturation of the islet-like clusters (ICAs) derived from dBM-MSCs. Upon mimicking the diabetic hyperglycemic niche and the supplementation of fetal pancreatic extract, to differentiate dBM-MSCs into pancreatic lineage in vitro, we observed rapid differentiation and maturation of dBM-MSCs into islet-like cell aggregates. Thus, our study demonstrated that diabetic hyperglycemic microenvironmental milieu plays a major role in inducing the differentiation of human BM-MSCs in vivo and in vitro.

Is social sciences and humanities (SSH) premedical education marginalized in the medical school admission process? A review and contextualization of the literature.

PubMed

Hall, Justin N; Woods, Nicole; Hanson, Mark D

2014-07-01

To investigate the performance outcomes of medical students with social sciences and humanities (SSH) premedical education during and beyond medical school by reviewing the literature, and to contextualize this review within today's admission milieu. From May to July 2012, the lead author searched the PubMed, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO databases, and reference lists of relevant articles, for research that compared premedical SSH education with premedical sciences education and its influence on performance during and/or after medical school. The authors extracted representative themes and relevant empirical findings. They contextualized their findings within today's admission milieu. A total of 1,548 citations were identified with 20 papers included in the review. SSH premedical education is predominately an American experience. For medical students with SSH background, equivalent academic, clinical, and research performance compared with medical students with a premedical science background is reported, yet different patterns of competencies exist. Post-medical-school equivalent or improved clinical performance is associated with an SSH background. Medical students with SSH backgrounds were more likely to select primary care or psychiatry careers. SSH major/course concentration, not SSH course counts, is important for admission decision making. The impact of today's admission milieu decreases the value of an SSH premedical education. Medical students with SSH premedical education perform on par with peers yet may possess different patterns of competencies, research, and career interests. However, SSH premedical education likely will not attain a significant role in medical school admission processes.

Striding Toward Social Justice: The Ecologic Milieu of Physical Activity

PubMed Central

Lee, Rebecca E.; Cubbin, Catherine

2009-01-01

Disparities in physical activity should be investigated in light of social justice principles. This manuscript critically evaluates evidence and trends in disparities research within an ecologic framework, focusing on multi-level factors such as neighborhood and racial discrimination that influence physical activity. Discussion focuses on strategies for integrating social justice into physical activity promotion and intervention programming within an ecologic framework. PMID:19098519

Behavioral significance of milieu: a consideration of two downtown settings

Treesearch

Douglas L. Robertson; Rowan A. Rowntree

1977-01-01

Behavior patterns in parks and plazas in downtown Syracuse, New York, are discussed. After an introduction of the spaces and their principal users, fundamental concepts borrowed from ecological psychology are defined. Then using these concepts, the behavioral significance of the environment is illustrated in a comparison of two case studies. The concepts employed here...

The Inflammatory Milieu Permits Metastasis in Pregnancy-Associated Breast Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-07-01

by the CT ask 5f) Characterization of tumor desmoplasia by IHC. The same panel of markers for taken in ask 5g ) Animal and human PABC IHC data...pregnancy. 12 Borges V, Albrektsen G, and Schedin P 13 We have also evaluated this model for differences in tumor latency with pregnancy. In...model, differences in latency are not observed between groups. Early time points in both of these models are confounded by the density of mammary tissue

Striding toward social justice: the ecologic milieu of physical activity.

PubMed

Lee, Rebecca E; Cubbin, Catherine

2009-01-01

Disparities in physical activity should be investigated in light of social justice principles. This article critically evaluates evidence and trends in disparities research within an ecologic framework, focusing on multilevel factors such as neighborhood and racial discrimination that influence physical activity. Discussion focuses on strategies for integrating social justice into physical activity promotion and intervention programming within an ecologic framework.

Workplace Literacy. Bibliography = L'alphabetisation en milieu de travail. Bibliographie.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Literacy Secretariat, Ottawa (Ontario).

This bibliography lists projects, products, learning materials, and other items of interest found in the Literacy Resource Collection in the Human Resource Development Canada Library. Most of the material is available for loan; contact information is provided. The preface appears in both English and French. The 164 materials consist of both…

Testicular descent: INSL3, testosterone, genes and the intrauterine milieu.

PubMed

Bay, Katrine; Main, Katharina M; Toppari, Jorma; Skakkebæk, Niels E

2011-04-01

Complete testicular descent is a sign of, and a prerequisite for, normal testicular function in adult life. The process of testis descent is dependent on gubernacular growth and reorganization, which is regulated by the Leydig cell hormones insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) and testosterone. Investigation of the role of INSL3 and its receptor, relaxin-family peptide receptor 2 (RXFP2), has contributed substantially to our understanding of the hormonal control of testicular descent. Cryptorchidism is a common congenital malformation, which is seen in 2-9% of newborn boys, and confers an increased risk of infertility and testicular cancer in adulthood. Although some cases of isolated cryptorchidism in humans can be ascribed to known genetic defects, such as mutations in INSL3 or RXFP2, the cause of cryptorchidism remains unknown in most patients. Several animal and human studies are currently underway to test the hypothesis that in utero factors, including environmental and maternal lifestyle factors, may be involved in the etiology of cryptorchidism. Overall, the etiology of isolated cryptorchidism seems to be complex and multifactorial, involving both genetic and nongenetic components.

Peri-Implantation Hormonal Milieu: Elucidating Mechanisms of Adverse Neurodevelopmental Outcomes.

PubMed

Mainigi, Monica; Rosenzweig, Jason M; Lei, Jun; Mensah, Virginia; Thomaier, Lauren; Talbot, C Conover; Olalere, Devvora; Ord, Teri; Rozzah, Rayyan; Johnston, Michael V; Burd, Irina

2016-06-01

While live births resulting from assisted reproductive technology (ART) exceed 1% of total births annually, the effect of ART on fetal development is not well understood. Data have demonstrated that IVF leads to alterations in DNA methylation and gene expression in the placenta that may have long-term effects on health and disease. Studies have linked adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes to ART, although human studies are inconclusive. In order to isolate the peri-implantation environment and its effects on brain development, we utilized a mouse model with and without superovulation and examined the effect of adult behavior as well as adult cortical neuronal density. Adult offspring of superovulated dams showed increased anxiety-like behavior compared to offspring of naturally mated dams (P < .05). There was no difference in memory and learning tests between the 2 groups. The adult brains from offspring of superovulated recipients had fewer neurons per field compared to naturally mated control offspring (P < .05). In order to examine potential pathways leading to these changes, we measured messenger RNA and microRNA (miRNA) expression in fetal brains at E18.5. Microarray analysis found that miRNAs miR-122, miR-144, and miR-211, involved in regulation of neuronal migration and differentiation, were downregulated in brains of offspring exposed to a superovulated environment(P < .05). There was also altered expression of genes involved in neuronal development. These results suggest that the peri-implantation environment can affect neurodevelopment and can lead to behavioral changes in adulthood. Human studies with long-term follow-up of children from ART are necessary to further investigate the influence of ART on the offspring. © The Author(s) 2015.

New Frontiers: "Milieu" and the Sociology of American Jewish Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Horowitz, Bethamie

2008-01-01

Over the course of the twentieth century changing circumstances have prompted American Jewish educators to develop new educational strategies to address these needs, and these developments are an important aspect of the sociology of American Jewish education. Using the method of historical sociology, I examine the educational configuration at…

China’s New Media Milieu: Commercialization, Continuity, and Reform

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-10-01

forms: research monographs, short papers, and briefings as well as edited book -length studies. Our events include major conferences, guest speakers...venting 6 mechanism for popular frustrations—a phenomena that has received a fair amount of attention in the public press. Diversification of...existence of a market, which forms the cornerstone of a communication system. However, beyond the market mechanism , media commercialization also

Measuring the pulse of urban green infrastructure: vegetation dynamics across residential landscapes

EPA Science Inventory

Vegetation can be an important component of urban green infrastructure. Its structure is a complex result of the socio-ecological milieu and management decisions, and it can influence numerous ecohydrological processes such as stormwater interception and evapotranspiration. Despi...

Group Work with Juvenile Delinquents.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zimpfer, David G.

1992-01-01

Reviews group work literature on juvenile delinquents. Presents overview of interventions, including positive peer culture, cognitive-behavioral treatment, psychoeducational treatment, treatment of learned behavior, action-oriented treatment, milieu therapy, parental involvement, assertiveness training, and music therapy. Discusses outcome…

Immunity by equilibrium.

PubMed

Eberl, Gérard

2016-08-01

The classical model of immunity posits that the immune system reacts to pathogens and injury and restores homeostasis. Indeed, a century of research has uncovered the means and mechanisms by which the immune system recognizes danger and regulates its own activity. However, this classical model does not fully explain complex phenomena, such as tolerance, allergy, the increased prevalence of inflammatory pathologies in industrialized nations and immunity to multiple infections. In this Essay, I propose a model of immunity that is based on equilibrium, in which the healthy immune system is always active and in a state of dynamic equilibrium between antagonistic types of response. This equilibrium is regulated both by the internal milieu and by the microbial environment. As a result, alteration of the internal milieu or microbial environment leads to immune disequilibrium, which determines tolerance, protective immunity and inflammatory pathology.

Biomarkers of Lung Injury

EPA Science Inventory

Unlike the hepatic, cardiovascular, nervous, or excretory organ systems, where there .ls a strong contribution of host factors or extracellular biochemical milieu in causing organ damage, the causes of lung injuries and subsequent diseases are primarily from direct environmental ...

Effect of Co-Solutes on Template-Directed Nonenzymatic Copying of RNA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bapat, N. V.; Rajamani, S.

2017-07-01

Given the heterogeneous nature of the prebiotic milieu, we report here, the effect of presence of lipid vesicles and Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) as co-solutes on the rate and accuracy of enzyme-free template-directed RNA primer extension reactions.

From the litter up and the sky down: Perspectives on urban forest structure and eco-hydrological processes (presentation)

EPA Science Inventory

The structure of the urban forest represents the complex product of local biophysical conditions, socio-economic milieu, people preferences and management with rare counterparts in rural forests. However, urban forest structure, as similarly observed in rural forests, affects key...

Development of pre-implantation porcine blastocysts cultured within alginate hydrogel systems either supplemented with secreted phosphoprotein 1 or conjugated with Arg-Gly-Asp Peptide

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Although deficiencies in porcine blastocyst elongation play a significant role in early embryonic mortality and establishment of within-litter developmental variation, the exact mechanisms of elongation are poorly understood. Secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1) is increased within the uterine milieu du...

Early growth response protein-1 mediates lipotoxicity-associated placental inflammation: Role in maternal obesity

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Obesity is associated with low-grade chronic inflammation, which contributes to cellular dysfunction promoting metabolic disease. Obesity during pregnancy leads to a pro-inflammatory milieu in the placenta; however, the underlying causes for obesity-induced placental inflammation remain unclear. H...

A "Prepaid Package" for Obstetrics: Effect on Teaching and Patient Care in a University Hospital

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Young, Philip E.

1976-01-01

The changing social milieu has removed the charity patient but not the need for a teaching population. The University Hospital's program is described, in which patients prepaid a fixed, single fee for all obstetrics-related care through the third post partum day. (LBH)

Public Relations in Contemporary India: Current Demands and Strategy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Singh, Raveena

2000-01-01

Discusses India's new direction and the persistent and insistent demand for public relations. Explains the strategic plan of the professional body in running the gauntlet in this new milieu and the pertinaciousness and urgency of the challenges ahead for public relations. (SC)

Challenges for Curriculum Leadership in Contemporary Teacher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Parkes, Robert J.

2013-01-01

This paper outlines the complex contemporary milieu of Australian teacher education within which curriculum leaders responsible for designing teacher education programs must make their program design decisions. Particular attention is paid to the collision of vertical ("hierarchical" or "academic rationalist") and horizontal…

In-Vehicle Signing Concepts: An Analytical Precursor to an In-Vehicle Information System

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1996-01-01

The purpose of the project described in this report is to develop alternative In-Vehicle Signing (IVS) system concepts based on allocation of the functions associated with driving a road vehicle. In the driving milieu, tasks can be assigned to one of...

Psychological Acculturation of Young Visible Immigrants.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sam, David Lackland

1992-01-01

Discusses the psychological acculturation of young visible immigrants in Western industrialized countries, examining the psychosocial milieu that parents and society provide them, and the inability to assimilate or acculturate. "Visible" immigrant is a value neutral term for nonwhite or non-Caucasian immigrants. (SLD)

Language Policy in Canada: Current Issues. A Selection of the Proceedings of the Papers Dealing with Language Policy Issues in Canada at the Conference "Language Policy and Social Problems" (Curacao, Venezuela, December, 1983). Publication B-150.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cobarrubias, Juan, Ed.

The papers related to Canadian language policy at an international conference are presented: "Language Policy in Canada: Current Issues" (Juan Cobarrubias); "Multiculturalism and Language Policy in Canada" (Jim Cummins, Harold Troper); "Defining Language Policy in a Nationalistic Milieu and in a Complex Industrialized…

Electron microscope observations of impact crater debris amongst contaminating particulates on materials surfaces exposed in space in low-Earth orbit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murr, L. E.; Rivas, J. M.; Quinones, S.; Niou, C.-S.; Advani, A. H.; Marquez, B.

1993-01-01

Debris particles extracted from a small sampling region on the leading edge of the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) spacecraft have been examined by analytical transmission electron microscopy and the elemental frequency observed by energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry and compared with upper atmosphere (Earth) particle elemental frequency and the average elemental compositions of interplanetary dust particles. A much broader elemental distribution was observed for the exposed spacecraft surface debris milieu. Numerous metal microfragment analyses, particularly aluminum and stainless steel, were compared with scanning electron microscope observations-of impact crater features, and the corresponding elemental spectra on selected LDEF aluminium tray clamps and stainless steel bolts. The compositions and melt features for these impact craters and ejecta have been shown to be consistent with microcrystalline debris fragments in the case of aluminum, and these observations suggest an ever changing debris milieu on exposed surfaces for space craft and space system materials.

The evolutionary origin and significance of Menopause

PubMed Central

Pollycove, Ricki; Naftolin, Frederick; Simon, James A.

2010-01-01

Contemporary human females have long life expectancy (81y US), especially relative to age at menopause (51y US). Menopause is a consequence of reproductive aging and follicular depletion (ovarian failure), yielding very low circulating estrogen* serum concentrations and biologically disadvantageous metabolic alterations. Stated in terms of antagonistic pleiotropy, the ongoing hypoestrogenic endocrine environment, beneficial during lactation, results in acceleration of several age-related health conditions following menopause (i.e. late postmenopausal osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline). In contrast, the complex hypoestrogenic hormonal milieu present during postpartum lactation provides biologic advantages to both mother and newborn. The lactational hormonal milieu causes symptoms similar to those of the late perimenopause and early postmenopause, prompting theories for their biologic selective advantage. The precepts of evolutionary medicine encourage a reassessment of hormone therapy. Based on data presented, the authors propose additional opportunities for disease prevention and morbidity reduction in postmenopausal women. PMID:21252729

Protein bio-corona: critical issue in immune nanotoxicology.

PubMed

Neagu, Monica; Piperigkou, Zoi; Karamanou, Konstantina; Engin, Ayse Basak; Docea, Anca Oana; Constantin, Carolina; Negrei, Carolina; Nikitovic, Dragana; Tsatsakis, Aristidis

2017-03-01

With the expansion of the nanomedicine field, the knowledge focusing on the behavior of nanoparticles in the biological milieu has rapidly escalated. Upon introduction to a complex biological system, nanomaterials dynamically interact with all the encountered biomolecules and form the protein "bio-corona." The decoration with these surface biomolecules endows nanoparticles with new properties. The present review will address updates of the protein bio-corona characteristics as influenced by nanoparticle's physicochemical properties and by the particularities of the encountered biological milieu. Undeniably, bio-corona generation influences the efficacy of the nanodrug and guides the actions of innate and adaptive immunity. Exploiting the dynamic process of protein bio-corona development in combination with the new engineered horizons of drugs linked to nanoparticles could lead to innovative functional nanotherapies. Therefore, bio-medical nanotechnologies should focus on the interactions of nanoparticles with the immune system for both safety and efficacy reasons.

Service quality and clinical outcomes: an example from mental health rehabilitation services in England.

PubMed

Killaspy, Helen; Marston, Louise; Omar, Rumana Z; Green, Nicholas; Harrison, Isobel; Lean, Melanie; Holloway, Frank; Craig, Tom; Leavey, Gerard; King, Michael

2013-01-01

Current health policy assumes better quality services lead to better outcomes. To investigate the relationship between quality of mental health rehabilitation services in England, local deprivation, service user characteristics and clinical outcomes. Standardised tools were used to assess the quality of mental health rehabilitation units and service users' autonomy, quality of life, experiences of care and ratings of the therapeutic milieu. Multiple level modelling investigated relationships between service quality, service user characteristics and outcomes. A total of 52/60 (87%) National Health Service trusts participated, comprising 133 units and 739 service users. All aspects of service quality were positively associated with service users' autonomy, experiences of care and therapeutic milieu, but there was no association with quality of life. Quality of care is linked to better clinical outcomes in people with complex and longer-term mental health problems. Thus, investing in quality is likely to show real clinical gains.

Holism and life manifestations: molecular and space-time biology.

PubMed

Krecek, J

2010-01-01

Appeals of philosophers to look for new concepts in sciences are being met with a weak response. Limited attention is paid to the relation between synthetic and analytic approach in solving problems of biology. An attempt is presented to open a discussion on a possible role of holism. The term "life manifestations" is used in accordance with phenomenology. Multicellular creatures maintain milieu intérieur to keep an aqueous milieu intracellulair in order to transform the energy of nutrients into the form utilizable for driving cellular life manifestations. Milieu intérieur enables to integrate this kind of manifestations into life manifestations of the whole multicellular creatures. The integration depends on a uniqueness and uniformity of the genome of cells, on their mutual recognition and adherence. The processes of ontogenetic development represent the natural mode of integration of cellular life manifestations. Functional systems of multicellular creatures are being established by organization of integrable cells using a wide range of developmental processes. Starting from the zygote division the new being displays all properties of a whole creature, although its life manifestations vary. Therefore, the whole organism is not only more than its parts, as supposed by holism, but also more than developmental stages of its life manifestations. Implicitly, the units of whole multicellular creature are rather molecular and developmental events than the cells per se. Holism, taking in mind the existence of molecular and space-time biology, could become a guide in looking for a new mode of the combination of analytical and synthetic reasoning in biology.

Impact of dietary fibers on nutrient management and detoxification organs: Gut, liver, and kidneys

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Increased dietary fiber (DF) intake elicits a wide range of physiological effects, not just locally in the gut, but systemically. Dietary fibers can greatly alter the gut milieu by impacting the gut microbiome, which in turn influences the gut barrier, gastrointestinal immune and endocrine response...

Autochthonous Change: Self-Renewal through Open Software Design

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hedbring, Charles

2005-01-01

In all likelihood, currently employed therapists and teachers grew up with computer technology. Part of their computer culture included programming computers for entertainment using popular consumer software like Microsoft Basic. Within this social-educational milieu, the "FACTS+" curriculum represents one long-term project covering the…

Informant-Ethnographers in the Study of Schools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Feer, Michael

1975-01-01

In the context of an anthropology curriculum, public high school students performed as informant-ethnographers of their own social milieu. Using the film and fieldwork techniques, students demonstrated that with training and sensitivity such studies could be more than simple academic exercises. (AUTHOR/NQ)

Characterization and mucosal responses of interleukin 17 family ligand and receptor genes in channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Interleukin (IL) 17 family cytokines are important mediators of mucosal immune responses, tightly regulated by signals from the complex milieu of pathogenic and commensal microbes, epithelial cells and innate and adaptive leukocytes found at tissue barriers. In mammals, IL17 ligand expression has be...

A Variety of Programs Meeting the Needs of Emotionally Disturbed Students in New York State. Special Conference Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Foster, Herbert L., Ed.

1989-01-01

This issue of "Perceptions" contains an introductory article by guest editor Herbert Foster--"A Variety of Programs"--and seven articles describing programs for educating emotionally disturbed children in New York. "A Very Special Place" (Susan Kosberg and Bernie Kosberg) describes a therapeutic camping milieu located…

Re(con)ceiving Young Children's Curricular Performativity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sellers, Marg

2010-01-01

Working (with) Deleuzo-Guattarian philosophical imaginaries opens (to) a multiplicity of possibilities for thinking differently about curriculum, young children and how they perform their curricular understandings. In this article I work (as) rhizome, bringing the imaginaries "becoming" and "milieu" into an early childhood curriculum conversation…

Practice Parameter for Psychiatric Consultation to Schools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 2005

2005-01-01

This practice parameter reviews the topic of psychiatric consultation to schools. The review covers the history of school consultation and current consultative models; the process of developing a consultative relationship; school administrative procedures, personnel, and milieu; legal protections for students with mental disabilities; and issues…

Pedagogy without Pedagogy: Dancing with Living, Knowing and Morale

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chen, Rosa Hong

2015-01-01

This article takes its retrospective lead from the oppressive schooling years during the Chinese Cultural Revolution to reflect on the educational significance of artistic activities through considering aesthetic virtues and moral agency cultivated in these activities. Describing an unconventional educational milieu where schooling was…

A Physiologist's View of Homeostasis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Modell, Harold; Cliff, William; Michael, Joel; McFarland, Jenny; Wenderoth, Mary Pat; Wright, Ann

2015-01-01

Homeostasis is a core concept necessary for understanding the many regulatory mechanisms in physiology. Claude Bernard originally proposed the concept of the constancy of the "milieu interieur," but his discussion was rather abstract. Walter Cannon introduced the term "homeostasis" and expanded Bernard's notion of…

"Outstanding Individuals Do Not Arise from Ancestrally Poor Stock": Racial Science and the Education of Black South Africans.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Appel, Stephen W.

1989-01-01

Examines the construction of racial scientific discourse within the milieu of an extremely racially segregated society. Traces the influence of capitalism, racism, Social Darwinism, eugenics, and "racial science" on the pedagogy of modern apartheid in South Africa. Finds evidence of pervasive effects of "scientific" ideas on…

Mice fed a high-fat diet supplemented with resistant starch display marked shifts in the liver metabolome concurrent with altered gut bacteria

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

High-amylose maize resistant starch type 2 (HAMRS2) is a fermentable dietary fiber known to alter the gut milieu, including the gut microbiota, which may explain reported effects of resistant starch to ameliorate obesity-associated metabolic dysfunction. Our working hypothesis is that HAMRS2-induced...

Emotional Sequelae of Abortion: Implications for Clinical Practice.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lemkau, Jeanne Parr

1988-01-01

Summarizes literature on normative reactions to abortion and factors that increase risk of negative emotional sequelae. Discusses characteristics of woman, social support and cultural milieu around the abortion, the medical environment and abortion procedure itself, and events subsequent to abortion which may cause conflict. Discusses implications…

The Bricoleur, the Engineer and the Kaitiaki: Reconceptualising the Work of VET Educators

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maurice-Takerei, Lisa

2016-01-01

The paper presents a reconceptualisation of trades tutors drawn from tutors themselves. Trade educators here are seen as multidisciplinary, multi-dimensional practitioners with an occupational milieu that goes beyond the reductionist and instrumentalist views of teaching with which vocational education is often beset. Trade-tutor perspectives on…

OZONE DEPLETION AND THE AIR-SEA EXCHANGE OF GREENHOUSE AND CHEMICALLY REACTIVE TRACE GASES

EPA Science Inventory

One of the most important aspects of global change is that of stratospheric ozone depletion and the resulting increase in UV radiation reaching the surface of the Earth. Some 70% of the Earth surface is covered by water containing an extremely complicated milieu of organic and in...

"The Storyteller: Reflections on the Works of Nikolai Leskov."

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

International Journal of Oral History, 1981

1981-01-01

Presents 11 selections from Walter Benjamin's essay "The Storyteller" which illustrate how the work milieu and the significance of death are incorporated into stories. Benjamin compares historiography to traditional storytelling, and discusses the effect of the storyteller's need to maintain the listener's interest upon the story's style…

A Transactional Model of Spoken Vocabulary Variation in Toddlers with Intellectual Disabilities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Woynaroski, Tiffany; Yoder, Paul J.; Fey, Marc E.; Warren, Steven F.

2014-01-01

Purpose: The authors examined (a) whether dose frequency of milieu communication teaching (MCT) affects children's canonical syllabic communication and (b) whether the relation between early canonical syllabic communication and later spoken vocabulary is mediated by parental linguistic mapping in children with intellectual disabilities (ID).…

A Randomized Comparison of the Effect of Two Prelinguistic Communication Interventions on the Acquisition of Spoken Communication in Preschoolers with ASD

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yoder, Paul; Stone, Wendy L.

2006-01-01

Purpose: This randomized group experiment compared the efficacy of 2 communication interventions (Responsive Education and Prelinguistic Milieu Teaching [RPMT] and the Picture Exchange Communication System [PECS]) on spoken communication in 36 preschoolers with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Method: Each treatment was delivered to children for a…

Youth Victimization: School Climate or Deviant Lifestyles?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zaykowski, Heather; Gunter, Whitney

2012-01-01

Despite much focus on school violence, there has been little research that explores the relationship between offending and victimization in various school climates. School climate theory suggests that the school's social system, culture, milieu, and ecological structure affect student outcomes including academic performance, delinquency, and more…

Grand Designs! Analysing the Conceptual Tensions Associated with New Physical Education and Health and Well-Being Curriculum

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thorburn, Malcolm; Horrell, Andrew

2014-01-01

The positioning of physical education in the school curriculum continues to reflect external discourses circulating in political and social milieu. As increasing austerity measures influence and restrict educational priorities, we consider that there is an urgent need for physical educationalists to articulate a rationale for an educational…

PROGRAMMED INSTRUCTION AND THE HOSPITAL, A REPORT ON THE USE OF PROGRAMMED INSTRUCTION IN HEALTH CARE INSTITUTIONS.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hospital Research and Educational Trust, Chicago, IL.

THE FIRST SECTION OF THIS REPORT ON PROGRAMED INSTRUCTION IN THE HEALTH CARE FIELD EXAMINES THE HOSPITAL MILIEU AND SUCH PROBLEMS AS PERSONNEL SHORTAGES, INCREASING SPECIALIZATION, AND STRICT TECHNICAL AND EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS. THE SECOND SECTION REVIEWS SOME RECENT ADVANCES IN BEHAVIORAL TECHNOLOGY, FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF TEACHING…

A Systems Approach for Ameliorating Possible Prima Facie Denial of Hispanic/Black Students' Rights Through Disproportionate Enrollment in Special Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McDonnell, James R.

The paper discusses the issue of educational equity, principles of systems analysis, systems approaches in the educational milieu, the evaluation aspect of the systems approach, and application of the systems approach to preventing disproportionate enrollment of Hispanics and Blacks in special education classes in Holyoke, Massachusetts. The…

Persistence and Cultural Maintenance Correlates of Change Obstruction.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McGill, Jerrie L. B.

This dissertation suggests that persistence in concert with the force of resistance, exists within individual educators and the educational subsystem, and operates to maintain existing sociocultural structures. Anthropological explanations of the change process were examined with an indication that within the wider cultural milieu the educational…

Micro-Social Factors in the Development of Entrepreneurial Giftedness: The Case of Richard Branson

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shavinina, Larisa V.

2006-01-01

Research shows that social circumstances influence the development of an individual's high abilities. This paper identifies the micro-social1 factors in the development of entrepreneurial giftedness. Specifically, the paper considers the family milieu, 'significant others' and great contemporaries in the case of Richard Branson, the most…

Updated assessment of the critical environmental factors involved in the prevention of allergic disease

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

Green, A.R.

1979-06-01

The effects of climate, as well as outdoor and indoor pollution, on allergic respiratory symptoms are herein explored. Also, measures utilized in modifying the susceptible individual's milieu are examined. Finally, the potential for ameliorating or preventing the development of allergies in genetically predisposed children is discussed.

The Differential Effect of Three Naturalistic Language Interventions on Language Use in Children with Autism

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ingersoll, Brooke

2011-01-01

Naturalistic interventions show promise for improving language in children with autism. Specific interventions differ in direct elicitation of child language and indirect language stimulation, and thus may produce different language outcomes. This study compared the effects of responsive interaction, milieu teaching, and a combined intervention on…

Enhancing Reflective Practice in Multicultural Counseling through Cultural Auditing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Collins, Sandra; Arthur, Nancy; Wong-Wylie, Gina

2010-01-01

Counselors work in an increasingly complex cultural milieu where every encounter with a client must be considered multicultural in nature. Reflective practice is a central component of professional competence and necessarily involves attention to culture. The cultural auditing model provides an effective and flexible reflective process for…

Classroom Research in a General Education Course: Exploring Implications through an Investigation of the Sophomore Slump

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gump, Steven E.

2007-01-01

General education classrooms provide a common milieu for understanding and appropriating results of classroom research projects, which are typically viewed as having little application outside their original contexts. Here, results of an investigation into the "sophomore slump," where grades and class attendance rates typically suffer, are…

The Other 23 Hours.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Trieschman, Albert E.; And Others

Nine papers by Albert E. Trieschman, Larry K. Brendtro, and James K. Whittaker consider management of emotionally disturbed children in residential centers. Topics treated include understanding the nature of a therapeutic milieu, establishing relationship beachheads, understanding the stages of a typical temper tantrum, observing and recording…

Peripherally derived FGF21 promotes remyelination in the central nervous system

PubMed Central

Kuroda, Mariko; Maedera, Noriko; Koyama, Yoshihisa; Hamaguchi, Machika; Fujimura, Harutoshi; Konishi, Morichika; Itoh, Nobuyuki; Mochizuki, Hideki

2017-01-01

Demyelination in the central nervous system (CNS) leads to severe neurological deficits that can be partially reversed by spontaneous remyelination. Because the CNS is isolated from the peripheral milieu by the blood-brain barrier, remyelination is thought to be controlled by the CNS microenvironment. However, in this work we found that factors derived from peripheral tissue leak into the CNS after injury and promote remyelination in a murine model of toxin-induced demyelination. Mechanistically, leakage of circulating fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), which is predominantly expressed by the pancreas, drives proliferation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) through interactions with β-klotho, an essential coreceptor of FGF21. We further confirmed that human OPCs expressed β-klotho and proliferated in response to FGF21 in vitro. Vascular barrier disruption is a common feature of many CNS disorders; thus, our findings reveal a potentially important role for the peripheral milieu in promoting CNS regeneration. PMID:28825598

Fetal Sex-Based Differences in Maternal Hormones, Angiogenic Factors, and Immune Mediators During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period

PubMed Central

Enninga, Elizabeth Ann L; Nevala, Wendy K; Creedon, Douglas J; Markovic, Svetomir N; Holtan, Shernan G

2015-01-01

Problem Several pregnancy complications have disparities based on the sex of the fetus. It is unknown whether the sex of the fetus differentially alters the maternal immune milieu, potentially contributing to the observed differences. Method of study Using maternal plasma collected during 38 uncomplicated pregnancies (19 males, 19 females), we compared levels of cytokines, sex hormones, and angiogenic factors throughout gestation and postpartum. Results Male fetal sex was associated with higher levels of proinflammatory cytokines (G-CSF, IL-12p70, IL-21, and IL-33) and angiogenic factors (PlGF and VEGF-A) compared with female fetal sex at multiple timepoints. Female fetal sex was associated with higher levels of regulatory cytokines (IL-5, IL-9, IL-17, and IL-25). IL-27 increased throughout pregnancy regardless of fetal sex. There was no fetal sex-based difference in analyte concentrations at the postpartum measurement. Conclusion Women carrying a male fetus exhibit a more proinflammatory/proangiogenic immune milieu than women carrying a female fetus. PMID:25091957

A multidisciplinary TBI inpatient rehabilitation programme for active duty service members as part of a randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Braverman, S E; Spector, J; Warden, D L; Wilson, B C; Ellis, T E; Bamdad, M J; Salazar, A M

1999-06-01

To design and describe an effective rehabilitation programme for use in an ongoing trial on the efficacy of multidisciplinary brain injury rehabilitation for moderately head injury military service members. Treatment arm of a randomized control trial. US military tertiary care hospital inpatient rehabilitation programme. Sixty seven active duty military with moderate to severe TBI who were randomized to the treatment arm of the protocol. Eight week rehabilitation programme combining group and individual therapies with an inpatient milieu-oriented neuropsychological focus. Group therapies included fitness, planning and organization, cognitive skills, work skills, medication, and milieu groups, and community re-entry outings. Individual therapy included neuropsychology, work therapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language pathology. Successful return to work and return to duty. At 1 year follow-up, 64 patients returned to work (96%) and 66% (44/67) returned to duty. The described rehabilitation programme demonstrates one successful effort to rehabilitate active duty military service members with TBI who have the potential to return to duty.

Whistleblowing and boundary violations: exposing a colleague in the forensic milieu.

PubMed

Peternelj-Taylor, Cindy

2003-09-01

The purpose of this article is to examine the phenomenon of whistleblowing as it relates to a reconstructed case study of an erotic boundary violation that emerged from a clinical situation in forensic psychiatric nursing practice. The unique features of this case are illustrated with the help of a model for decision making. Although the ramifications of exposing a colleague are many, it is argued that, in this particular case, it was morally and ethically the right thing to do.

Learning Experiences of Gifted Young String Players in the Taiwan Milieu

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Chia-Hui

2008-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the development of the learning experiences of gifted young string players in Taiwan. Nine musicians under the age of 40, who had been accepted into music programs for the gifted, were invited to discuss their experiences and the development of their careers. Thorough interviews were conducted and then…

Inflammatory Milieu and Cardiovascular Homeostasis in Children With Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

PubMed

Smith, David F; Hossain, Md M; Hura, Arjan; Huang, Guixia; McConnell, Keith; Ishman, Stacey L; Amin, Raouf S

2017-04-01

Biomarkers of atherosclerosis (pro-inflammatory cytokines and acute phase reactants) are elevated in children with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, their association with cardiovascular endpoints in children are not understood. We hypothesized that biomarkers of atherosclerosis in children with OSA correlate with pulse transit time (PTT), a surrogate measure of vascular stiffness, with some positively influencing and others negatively influencing PTT. Children with OSA and matched controls were recruited to the study. Pro-inflammatory cytokines and acute phase reactants were measured at 6:00 pm and 6:00 am. Polysomnography with beat-to-beat blood pressure was performed. PTT during wakefulness and stage 2 sleep was calculated. Diurnal variation of biomarkers and their associations with PTT was estimated. Factor analysis was used to determine the effect of groups of cytokines on PTT. One hundred fifty-five children participated in the study; 90 were healthy controls and 65 had OSA. Children with OSA exhibited a different diurnal variation of biomarkers than healthy controls, with pro-inflammatory cytokines peaking in the morning and acute phase reactants peaking in the afternoon. Structural equation modeling demonstrated that interleukins 6 and 8, tumor necrosis factor-α, and sCD40L had a shortening effect, while serum amyloid A, C-reactive protein, and adiponectin had a prolonging effect on PTT. As a result, there was no difference in PTT between the two groups. The differential relationships of acute phase reactants and pro-inflammatory cytokines with PTT suggest that in children with OSA, these mediators may have opposing actions to maintain cardiovascular homeostasis. © Sleep Research Society 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Sleep Research Society. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail journals.permissions@oup.com.

The Antikythera Mechanism: The oldest mechanical universe in its scientific milieu

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moussas, Xenophon

2011-06-01

In this review the oldest known advanced astronomical instrument and dedicated analogue computer is presented, in context. The Antikythera Mechanism a mysterious device, assumed to be ahead of its time, probably made around 150 to 100 BCE, has been found in a 1st century BCE shipwreck near the island of Antikythera in a huge ship full of Greek treasures that were on their way to Rome. The Antikythera Mechanism is a clock-like device made of bronze gears, which looks much more advanced than its contemporary technological achievements. It is based on mathematics attributed to the Hipparchus and possibly carries knowledge and tradition that goes back to Archimedes, who according to ancient texts constructed several automata, including astronomical devices, a mechanical planetarium and a celestial sphere. The Antikythera Mechanism probably had a beautiful and expensive box; looking possibly like a very elaborate miniature Greek Temple, perhaps decorated with golden ornaments, of an elegant Hellenistic style, even perhaps with automatic statuettes, `daemons', functioning as pointers that performed some of its operations. Made out of appropriately tailored trains of gears that enable to perform specialised calculations, the mechanism carries concentric scales and pointers, in one side showing the position of the Sun in the ecliptic and the sky, possibly giving the time, hour of the day or night, like a clock. The position of the Moon and its phase is also shown during the month. On the other side of the Mechanism, having probably the size of a box (main part 32×20×6 cm), are two large spiral scales with two pointers showing the time in two different very long calendars, the first one concerning the eclipses, and lasting 18 years 11 days and 8 hours, the Saros period, repeating the solar and lunar eclipses, and enabling their prediction, and the 19 year cycle of Meton, that is the period the Moon reappears in the same place of the sky, with the same phase. An additional four-year dial shows the year of all Greek Festivities, the so-called `games' (Olympic, Pythian, Isthmian etc). Two additional dials give the Exeligmos, the 54 year and 34 day cycle, which provides a more accurate prediction of eclipses. It is possible that the Mechanism was also equipped with a planetary show display, as three of the planets and their motion (stationary points) are mentioned many times in the manual of the instrument, so it was also a planetarium. From the manual we have hints that the mechanism was probably also an observational instrument, as having instructions concerning a viewfinder and possibly how to orient the viewfinder to pass a sunbeam through it, probably measuring the altitude of the Sun. There are fragmented sentences that probably give instructions on how to move the pointers to set the position of the Sun, the Moon and the planets in their initial places in the ecliptic, on a specific day, or how to measure angular distances between two celestial bodies or their coordinates. This mechanism is definitely not the first one of its kind. The fact that it is accompanied with instructions means that the constructor had in its mind to be used by somebody else and one posits that he made at least another similar instrument.

Caracterisation des occupations du sol en milieu urbain par imagerie radar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Codjia, Claude

This study aims to test the relevance of medium and high-resolution SAR images on the characterization of the types of land use in urban areas. To this end, we have relied on textural approaches based on second-order statistics. Specifically, we look for texture parameters most relevant for discriminating urban objects. We have used in this regard Radarsat-1 in fine polarization mode and Radarsat-2 HH fine mode in dual and quad polarization and ultrafine mode HH polarization. The land uses sought were dense building, medium density building, low density building, industrial and institutional buildings, low density vegetation, dense vegetation and water. We have identified nine texture parameters for analysis, grouped into families according to their mathematical definitions in a first step. The parameters of similarity / dissimilarity include Homogeneity, Contrast, the Differential Inverse Moment and Dissimilarity. The parameters of disorder are Entropy and the Second Angular Momentum. The Standard Deviation and Correlation are the dispersion parameters and the Average is a separate family. It is clear from experience that certain combinations of texture parameters from different family used in classifications yield good results while others produce kappa of very little interest. Furthermore, we realize that if the use of several texture parameters improves classifications, its performance ceils from three parameters. The calculation of correlations between the textures and their principal axes confirm the results. Despite the good performance of this approach based on the complementarity of texture parameters, systematic errors due to the cardinal effects remain on classifications. To overcome this problem, a radiometric compensation model was developed based on the radar cross section (SER). A radar simulation from the digital surface model of the environment allowed us to extract the building backscatter zones and to analyze the related backscatter. Thus, we were able to devise a strategy of compensation of cardinal effects solely based on the responses of the objects according to their orientation from the plane of illumination through the radar's beam. It appeared that a compensation algorithm based on the radar cross section was appropriate. Some examples of the application of this algorithm on HH polarized RADARSAT-2 images are presented as well. Application of this algorithm will allow considerable gains with regard to certain forms of automation (classification and segmentation) at the level of radar imagery thus generating a higher level of quality in regard to visual interpretation. Application of this algorithm on RADARSAT-1 and RADARSAT-2 images with HH, HV, VH, and VV polarisations helped make considerable gains and eliminate most of the classification errors due to the cardinal effects.

Sociocultural Factors in Client-Counsellor Self-Disclosure in Nigeria, Africa

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Oluwatosin, S. A.

2014-01-01

This paper reviews various factors that interplay in the counselling sessions within the cultural milieu of African society, especially Nigeria and particularly within the context of school-based counselling provision. These factors, which were found to be both sociological and cultural, hamper effective client self-disclosure during counselling…

A Case for Inserting Community into Public School Curriculum

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Theobald, Paul

2006-01-01

This essay contends that there are fundamental connections between a nation's political arrangements and its educational efforts on behalf of youth. Though the common school architects of the nineteenth century recognized these connections, they were profoundly forgotten in a later Darwinian milieu that suggested--our allegiance to democracy…

Behavioral Management Leads to Reduction in Aggression in a Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Inpatient Unit

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dean, Angela J.; Duke, Suzanne G.; George, Michelle; Scott, James

2007-01-01

Objective: Aggression is common in children and adolescents admitted to psychiatric inpatient units. Few interventions for reducing aggressive behaviors have been identified. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a milieu-based behavioral management program on the frequency of aggressive behaviors in a child and adolescent mental health…

Fostering a Pluralistic Society through Multi-Ethnic Education. Fastback 107.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Garcia, Ricardo L.

The purpose of multiethnic education is to prepare all students to live harmoniously in a multiethnic society. Multiethnic education pursues these goals by reflecting ethnic diversity in the curriculum, dealing directly with ethnic group similarities and differences, and helping students understand their uniqueness in a pluralistic milieu.…

The American Revolution in Children's Fiction: An Analysis of Historical Meaning and Narrative Structure.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Taxel, Joel

1984-01-01

A Marxian analysis of the form and content of children's Revolutionary War fiction shows how characteristics of these materials are related to the socioeconomic and historical milieu from which they come. Structural similarities between these novels and Western films reveal historically rooted bourgeois attitudes, social values, and ideologies.…

L'interdisciplinarite en sciences sociales pour l'etude du contact des langues (Interdisciplinarity in Social Sciences of the Study of the Relationships of Languages). Proceedings of a Colloquium of the International Center for Research on Bilingualism and the Institute for Interethnic and Intercultural Studies and Research (2nd, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada, October 1-5, 1984).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Prujiner, Alain, Ed.

Papers given at an international conference applying the social sciences to the study of the relationships of languages include the following: "Reseaux sociaux et comportements langagiers en milieu de contact des langues" ("Social Networks and Language Behaviors in a Language Contact Setting") by M. Blanc and J. Hamers, with…

Sex and Occupational Socialization among Prison Guards: A Longitudinal Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Crouch, Ben M.; Alpert, Geoffrey P.

1982-01-01

Reports changes in attitudes of male and female prison guards over the first six months on the job. Found male guards became more, and female guards became less, punitive and aggressive. Results appear to derive from differences in the work milieu of male and female guards. (Author/JAC)

George Sand: A Life of Conflict

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pappas, Dee Ann

1970-01-01

This discussion on George Sand illustrates the dilemma of the woman who is curious and aggressive in a social milieu which is not ready to accept her in that light. The world in which she lived could not permit a realization of the ideal vision she held. (Author/CJ)

Augmenting Caregiver Responsiveness: An Intervention Proposal for Youngsters with Autism in Brazil

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nunes, Débora R. P.; Araújo, Eliana R.; Walter, Elizabeth; Soares, Rute; Mendonça, Camila

2016-01-01

Language disorders that affect children with autism spectrum disorder can bring significant damage to their overall development. Research shows that the best treatment practices for this population are those that start early, have active parental collaboration and are held in natural milieu. In Brazil, early intervention programs are typically…

From Command to Constructivism: Canadian Secondary School Physical Education Curriculum and "Teaching Games for Understanding"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Singleton, Ellen

2009-01-01

Canadian physical educators have fought long and hard to be recognized as legitimate contributors to school curricula. In claiming alliances with discourses of medicine and morality, science and psychology, proponents of physical education have sought to be recognized and validated within the educational milieu. These claims have fundamentally…

The Purposes Outdoor Education Does, Could and Should Serve in Singapore

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ho, Susanna

2014-01-01

This paper discusses the purposes that outdoor education does, could and should serve in Singapore. Gert Biesta's conceptualisation of three functions of education is adapted to frame deliberations on the purposes of outdoor education in Singapore's socio-political and educational milieu. The author suggests that outdoor education in Singapore…

Fostering Scholarship Capacity: The Experience of Nurse Educators

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cash, Penelope A.; Tate, Betty

2012-01-01

In a milieu where traditional views of scholarship are embedded in the culture of educational institutions, and nursing programs in particular, this paper reports on a research project designed to support nurse educators' capacity to engage in scholarly activities. Rogers' (2003, 2004) "Diffusion of Innovation" model provided a…

Social Network and the Maternal Role Satisfaction of Formerly-Married Mothers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bowen, Gary Lee

1982-01-01

Used secondary analysis of interviews conducted with 119 formerly-married mothers to test the hypothesis that the milieu provided by a women's social network predicts satisfaction with the demands of the maternal role. Strength of social network was not found to be significantly associated with maternal role satisfaction. (Author)

Prolepsis, Syncretism, and Synergy in Early Language and Literacy Practices: A Case Study of Family Language Policy in Singapore

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ren, Li; Hu, Guangwei

2013-01-01

This article reports a case study of two Chinese-English bilingual families in Singapore and illustrates the importance of incorporating two hitherto disconnected fields of research--family language policy and family literacy practices--to an understanding of early language and literacy acquisition in the familial milieu. Specifically, this work…

Randomized Comparison of Two Communication Interventions for Preschoolers with Autism Spectrum Disorders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yoder, Paul; Stone, Wendy L.

2006-01-01

This randomized group experiment compared the efficacy of 2 communication interventions (Responsive Education and Prelinguistic Milieu Teaching [RPMT] and the Picture Exchange Communication System [PECS]) in 36 preschoolers with autism spectrum disorders. Each treatment was delivered 3 times per week, in 20-min sessions, for 6 months. The results…

Object Interest in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Treatment Comparison

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McDuffie, Andrea S.; Lieberman, Rebecca G.; Yoder, Paul J.

2012-01-01

A randomized control trial comparing two social communication treatments for children with autism spectrum disorder examined the effect of treatment on object interest. Thirty-two children, 18-60 months, were randomly assigned to the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) or Responsive Education and Prelinguistic Milieu Teaching (RPMT)…

Developing Ethical Adult Educators: A Re-Examination of the Need for a Code of Ethics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hatcher, Tim; Storberg-Walker, Julia

2003-01-01

The moral philosophies and normative ethical guidelines of a profession influence its practice and research. More than simply assigning merit or worth to outcomes or processes, ethics is the milieu in which professionals establish integrity and develop solidarity through normative ethical worldviews. Thus, in increasingly complex contexts, adult…

Trude Weiss-Rosmarin: Rebel with a Cause.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reed, Barbara Straus

1995-01-01

Profiles Trude Weiss-Rosmarin, a German-Jewish immigrant to America who, in 1935, published an independent magazine of Jewish ideas. Notes that the periodical focused on Jewish survival in an assimilationist milieu and the role of Jewish women. States that Weiss-Rosmarin lectured frequently, attracted important readers, and contributed…

Issues in International Bilingual Education: The Role of the Vernacular.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hartford, Beverly, Ed.; And Others

The fifteen articles in this volume are generally concerned with the role of vernacular language in bilingual education on an international scale. They examine specific nations and how bilingualism affects their social milieu. The following articles are included: (1) "Bilingualism and the Vernacular," by Shana Poplack; (2) "The…

Environmental Education Curriculum in a Bilingual Education School in China

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Li, Ling

2006-01-01

In this article, the author discusses her experiences with developing an English-language science curriculum for students at the experimental Hai Bin Lu Primary School in China. She uses Schwab's (1973) four common denominators (or essential factors) of curricula--teacher, student, subject matter, and milieu--and Genette's (1980) three…

Increasing Communication in Children with Concurrent Vision and Hearing Loss

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brady, Nancy C.; Bashinski, Susan M.

2008-01-01

Nine children with complex communication needs and concurrent vision and hearing losses participated in an intervention program aimed at increasing intentional prelinguistic communication. The intervention constituted a pilot, descriptive study of an adapted version of prelinguistic milieu teaching, hence referred to as A-PMT. In A-PMT, natural…

L'acquisition d'une language seconde: Quelques developpements theoriques recents (Second Language Acquisition: Some Recent Theoretical Developments).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Py, Bernard, Ed.

1994-01-01

This collection of articles on second language learning includes: "Action, langage et discours. Les fondements d'une psychologie du langage" ("Action, Language, and Discourse. Foundations of a Psychology of Language") (Jean-Paul Bronckart); "Contextes socio-culturels et appropriation des languages secondes: l'apprentissage en milieu social et la…

A Psychology of Teaching.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pedrini, D. T.; Pedrini, B. C.

William James, the turn of the century psychologist, philospher, and educator, was avidly interested in the relationship between psychology and teaching. This paper considers operant conditioning, timing of reinforcers, and programmed instruction--touchstones of B.F. Skinner in the teaching/learning milieu. Of course, materials not just methods…

Dynamic Assessment of Graphic Symbol Combinations by Children with Autism.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nigam, Ravi

2001-01-01

This article offers teaching strategies in the dynamic assessment of the potential of students with autism to acquire and use multiple graphic symbol combinations for communicative purposes. Examples are given of the matrix strategy and milieu language teaching strategies. It also describes the Individualized Communication-Care Protocol, which…

Laptopers in an Educational Practice: Promoting the Personal Learning Situation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lindroth, Tomas; Bergquist, Magnus

2010-01-01

In this article an ethnographical study of laptopers' activities during lectures in a university milieu is analyzed as different kinds of involvements. Through interviews and observations we have focused on how these involvements influence the laptopers' alignment towards the educational practice. The analysis shows the importance of separating…

Experiences of Adolescents in Residential Treatment at the Orthogenic School 2013-2015: A Qualitative Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Scholom, Elizabeth

2017-01-01

The expansion of treatment interventions in child and adolescent residential milieu therapy in recent decades to include a multiplicity of approaches and techniques has resulted in the reformulation of residential treatment as a "tapestry of therapies" as opposed to a unified effort to maintain a uniquely growth-promoting total…

Mobile Applications and Decolonization: Cautionary Notes about the Curriculum of Code

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Bryan

2016-01-01

The current generation of students live and learn within a pedagogical milieu saturated by digital technologies. Curriculum scholars have not ignored this, theorizing and critiquing the ways that technology both affords and limits opportunities for students. Notably absent from this conversation, however, is a consideration of how the technologies…

Seeking Restorative Experiences: Elementary School Teachers' Choices for Places that Enable Coping with Stress

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gulwadi, Gowri Betrabet

2006-01-01

Teacher stress and coping research and restorative environments research were converged in this study to explore how elementary school teachers in Chicago seek out everyday places in their milieu to implement restorative coping strategies. Seventy-one survey responses revealed that teachers' spontaneous place choices are related to sources of…

Self-Determination in Medical Education: Encouraging Medical Educators to Be More like Blues Artists and Poets

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Patrick, Heather; Williams, Geoffrey C.

2009-01-01

Historically, medical education has focused largely on medical students' intellectual development, mostly ignoring the broader psychological milieu of medical practice. This chasm can result in practitioners who are less likely to process their emotions and/or support their patient's needs, and more likely to experience burnout. Self-determination…

Commentary on "Social Change and Equilibration of Cognitive Structures: The Role of Schooling and Urbanisation" by A. Lalo.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Greenfield, Patricia M.

1989-01-01

Critiques findings and interpretations of an investigation of the role of schooling and urbanization on the acquisition of conservation of physical quantities in Senegalese children. Concludes that the investigation showed a smaller impact of schooling, even in the rural milieu, than a previous study of Senegalese children. (RJC)

Multilevel Analysis of Structural Equation Models via the EM Algorithm.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jo, See-Heyon

The question of how to analyze unbalanced hierarchical data generated from structural equation models has been a common problem for researchers and analysts. Among difficulties plaguing statistical modeling are estimation bias due to measurement error and the estimation of the effects of the individual's hierarchical social milieu. This paper…

Teacher-Child Interaction Training with an Urban Clinical Preschool Population

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schaffner, Kristen F.; McGoey, Kara E.; Venesky, Lindsey

2016-01-01

The current study examined the impact of the relationship-enhancement phase of the Teacher-Child Interaction Training (TCIT) intervention on child behavior and teacher skill use within an urban therapeutic classroom milieu. Participants included four preschool children (mean age 4 years, 8 months) with clinical diagnoses attending a therapeutic…

A Survey of Mental Health Service Provision in New York State Residential Treatment Centers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baker, Amy J. L.; Fulmore, Darren; Collins, Julie

2008-01-01

Thirty-seven of 43 (86%) agencies operating child welfare residential treatment centers in New York State responded to a survey about the provision of mental health services. Questions were asked about provision of services, satisfaction with services, and suggestions for improvement in five domains: therapeutic milieu, individual therapy, group…

Hybridization behavior of mixed DNA/alkylthiol monolayers on gold: characterization by surface plasmon resonance and 32P radiometric assay.

PubMed

Gong, Ping; Lee, Chi-Ying; Gamble, Lara J; Castner, David G; Grainger, David W

2006-05-15

Nucleic acid assay from a complex biological milieu is attractive but currently difficult and far from routine. In this study, DNA hybridization from serum dilutions into mixed DNA/mercaptoundecanol (MCU) adlayers on gold was monitored by surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Immobilized DNA probe and hybridized target densities on these surfaces were quantified using 32P-radiometric assays as a function of MCU diluent exposure. SPR surface capture results correlated with radiometric analysis for hybridization performance, demonstrating a maximum DNA hybridization on DNA/MCU mixed adlayers. The maximum target surface capture produced by MCU addition to the DNA probe layer correlates with structural and conformational data on identical mixed DNA/MCU adlayers on gold derived from XPS, NEXAFS, and fluorescence intensity measurements reported in a related study (Lee, C.-Y.; Gong, P.; Harbers, G. M.; Grainger, D. W.; Castner, D. G.; Gamble, L. J. Anal. Chem. 2006, 78, 3316-3325.). MCU addition into the DNA adlayer on gold also improved surface resistance to both nonspecific DNA and serum protein adsorption. Target DNA hybridization from serum dilutions was monitored with SPR on the optimally mixed DNA/MCU adlayers. Both hybridization kinetics and efficiency were strongly affected by nonspecific protein adsorption from a complex milieu even at a minimal serum concentration (e.g., 1%). No target hybridization was detected in SPR assays from serum concentrations above 30%, indicating nonspecific protein adsorption interference of DNA capture and hybridization from complex milieu. Removal of nonsignal proteins from nucleic acid targets prior to assay represents a significant issue for direct sample-to-assay nucleic acid diagnostics from food, blood, tissue, PCR mixtures, and many other biologically complex sample formats.

Ca2+ regulatory mechanisms of exercise protection against coronary artery disease in metabolic syndrome and diabetes.

PubMed

Sturek, Michael

2011-08-01

Chronic exercise attenuates coronary artery disease (CAD) in humans largely independent of reductions in risk factors; thus major protective mechanisms of exercise are directly within the coronary vasculature. Further, tight control of diabetes, e.g., blood glucose, can be detrimental. Accordingly, knowledge of mechanisms by which exercise attenuates diabetic CAD could catalyze development of molecular therapies. Exercise attenuates CAD (atherosclerosis) and restenosis in miniature swine models, which enable precise control of exercise parameters (intensity, duration, and frequency) and characterization of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and diabetic milieu. Intracellular Ca(2+) is a pivotal second messenger for coronary smooth muscle (CSM) excitation-contraction and excitation-transcription coupling that modulates CSM proliferation, migration, and calcification. CSM of diabetic dyslipidemic Yucatan swine have impaired Ca(2+) extrusion via the plasmalemma Ca(2+) ATPase (PMCA), downregulation of L-type voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels (VGCC), increased Ca(2+) sequestration by the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+) ATPase (SERCA), increased nuclear Ca(2+) localization, and greater activation of K channels by Ca(2+) release from the SR. Endurance exercise training prevents Ca(2+) transport changes with virtually no effect on the diabetic milieu (glucose, lipids). In MetS Ossabaw swine transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channels are upregulated and exercise training reverses expression and TRPC-mediated Ca(2+) influx with almost no change in the MetS milieu. Overall, exercise effects on Ca(2+) signaling modulate CSM phenotype. Future studies should 1) selectively target key Ca(2+) transporters to determine definitively their causal role in atherosclerosis and 2) combine mechanistic studies with clinical outcomes, e.g., reduction of myocardial infarction.

Reticulation des fibres lignocellulosiques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Landrevy, Christel

Pour faire face à la crise économique la conception de papier à valeur ajoutée est développée par les industries papetières. Le but de se projet est l'amélioration des techniques actuelles de réticulation des fibres lignocellulosiques de la pâte à papier visant à produire un papier plus résistant. En effet, lors des réactions de réticulation traditionnelles, de nombreuses liaisons intra-fibres se forment ce qui affecte négativement l'amélioration anticipée des propriétés physiques du papier ou du matériau produit. Pour éviter la formation de ces liaisons intra-fibres, un greffage sur les fibres de groupements ne pouvant pas réagir entre eux est nécessaire. La réticulation des fibres par une réaction de « click chemistry » appelée cycloaddition de Huisgen entre un azide et un alcyne vrai, catalysée par du cuivre (CuAAC) a été l'une des solutions trouvée pour remédier à ce problème. De plus, une adaptation de cette réaction en milieux aqueux pourrait favoriser son utilisation en milieu industriel. L'étude que nous désirons entreprendre lors de ce projet vise à optimiser la réaction de CuAAC et les réactions intermédiaires (propargylation, tosylation et azidation) sur la pâte kraft, en milieu aqueux. Pour cela, les réactions ont été adaptées en milieu aqueux sur la cellulose microcristalline afin de vérifier sa faisabilité, puis transférée à la pâte kraft et l'influence de différents paramètres comme le temps de réaction ou la quantité de réactifs utilisée a été étudiée. Dans un second temps, une étude des différentes propriétés conférées au papier par les réactions a été réalisée à partir d'une série de tests papetiers optiques et physiques. Mots Clés Click chemistry, Huisgen, CuAAC, propargylation, tosylation, azidation, cellulose, pâte kraft, milieu aqueux, papier.

Tracing Family, Teaching Race: Critical Race Pedagogy in the Millennial Sociology Classroom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mueller, Jennifer C.

2013-01-01

The "millennial" historical moment presents fresh dilemmas for race-critical instructors. In addition to being well-versed in colorblind racial discourse, millennial students are socialized in a pop-cultural milieu that implies a more integrated, racially egalitarian world than exists in reality and includes claims that U.S. society is now…

Question-Asking and Question-Exploring

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sands, Lorraine; Carr, Margaret; Lee, Wendy

2012-01-01

The Centre of Innovation Research at Greerton Early Childhood Centre was characterised as a dispositional milieu where working theories were explored through a narrative research methodology. As the research progressed, the teachers at Greerton strengthened the way we were listening to, and watching out for young children's questions to enable…

Tensions in Defining Quality Pre-School Education: The Singapore Context

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lim-Ratnam, Christina

2013-01-01

Over the past decade, the government in Singapore has been introducing many initiatives in the early childhood sector to raise the quality of pre-school education. Educational reforms made without consideration of the perspectives and concerns of the participants in the socio-cultural milieu would only lead to superficial implementation. This…

Seeking Resilience and Sustainability: Outdoor Education in Singapore

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martin, Peter; Ho, Susanna

2009-01-01

Outdoor education is not a universal value. Rather, outdoor education's contributions need to be grounded in time, place and culture. In this paper we describe the historical and cultural milieu that has enabled the emergence of outdoor education in Singapore and report on exploratory survey research into Singaporean teachers' conceptions of…

Effect of probiotics and prebiotics on food animal immunity

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is the largest interface between an animal’s internal milieu and its exterior environment. As such, it forms a physical barrier between both environments. However, the function of the GI tract in the well-being of an animal is more complex than this passive role. Th...

Storytelling: using an ancient art to work with groups.

PubMed

Wenckus, E M

1994-07-01

1. Storytelling can be used to reduce social isolation and lack of connection. 2. Group storytelling, in which group members create a story together, has therapeutic value in the psychiatric milieu. 3. The experienced therapist/nurse-therapist is the best person to conduct a storytelling group in the psychiatric setting.

Knowledge Production through Interdisciplinary Skills: Producing an Effective Postgraduate Research Curriculum

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chitakunye, Pepukayi; Takhar-Lail, Amandeep

2015-01-01

This study contributes to existing methodological knowledge by showing how a transformed research methods curriculum, which is beyond the milieu of schooling, can engage postgraduate students in a critical dialogue on how knowledge is produced in industry and higher education. Initial insights are drawn from two interpretive studies that employed…

Foucault-Teaching-Theology

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beaudoin, Tom

2003-01-01

Religious education takes place within a postmodern culturalintellectual milieu exemplified in part by the work of Michel Foucault, which disrupts common modern concepts of knowledge and power. For Foucault, power is not only repressive but also productive, insofar as every system of knowledge depends on social arrangements of power for the…

How Students Experience and Navigate Transitions in Undergraduate Medical Education: An Application of Bourdieu's Theoretical Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Balmer, Dorene F.; Richards, Boyd F.; Varpio, Lara

2015-01-01

Using Bourdieu's theoretical model as a lens for analysis, we sought to understand how students experience the undergraduate medical education (UME) milieu, focusing on how they navigate transitions from the preclinical phase, to the major clinical year (MCY), and to the preparation for residency phase. Twenty-two medical students participated in…

English Language Cultures in Bulgaria: A Linguistic Sibling Rivalry?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

O'Reilly, Laurie M.

1998-01-01

In Bulgaria, a complex matrix of power relations governs English language education, and a triangle of international and intercultural relations between Bulgaria, United States, and United Kingdom. In the context of the changing economic and political milieu of central and eastern Europe, a study examines how Bulgaria fits into the emerging…

Commodification of Ghana's Volta River: An Example of Ellul's Autonomy of Technique

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Agbemabiese, Lawrence; Byrne, John

2005-01-01

Jacques Ellul argued that modernity's nearly exclusive reliance on science and technology to design society would threaten human freedom. Of particular concern for Ellul was the prospect of the technical milieu overwhelming culture. The commodification of the Volta River in order to modernize Ghana illustrates the Ellulian dilemma of the autonomy…

Executive Succession and Institutional Change: A Case Study of the University of New Mexico, 1967-1972.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bjork, Lars G.

The history of the University of New Mexico during 1967-1972, when a new president was appointed, is examined. Attention is focused primarily on the environmental milieu relating to federal support of university research and the president's leadership initiative in establishing the Office of the Vice President for Research. In reviewing…

Preparing Globally Competent Teacher Candidates through Cross-Cultural Experiential Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kopish, Michael A.

2016-01-01

This manuscript presents findings and implications from a case study of one global educator's attempt to develop globally competent teacher candidates in an elective teacher preparation course. Global Citizenship Education served as the framing paradigm for the course and human experiences of immigrants and refugees served as the milieu for…

Monitoring the Future: National Survey Results on Drug Use, 1975-2005. Volume 1: Secondary School Students, 2005. NIH Publication No. 06-5883

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnston, Lloyd D.; O'Malley, Patrick M.; Bachman, Jerald G.; Schulenberg, John E.

2006-01-01

This monograph provides the 1975-2005 national trends in smoking, drinking, and illicit drug use among American secondary school students. It covers subgroup differences, attitudes and beliefs about use, social milieu, degree and duration of drug highs, initiation rates, prevalence and frequency, and trends in illicit drug and alcohol use. Drug…

The Pre-Cloak Superhero: A Tool for Superhero Play and Intervention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fradkin, Chris; Weschenfelder, Gelson V.; Yunes, Maria Angela Mattar

2017-01-01

Since the early 1940s, superheroes have been used by educators and clinicians to instill community and confidence; resiliency and courage; tolerance and sharing among children. Through superhero play, the early childhood classroom has become a laboratory filled with capes and costumes. In the therapist's milieu, the empowered superhero provides a…

Industry Perceptions of Industry-University Partnerships Related to Doctoral Education in South Africa

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Herman, Chaya

2013-01-01

An assessment of the extent to which industry-university partnerships in doctoral education, which have become increasingly prevalent in the knowledge economy, have begun to penetrate the South African higher education milieu, is reported. The factors that motivate large industries in developing countries such as South Africa to invest in doctoral…

Eurocentrism, Afrocentrism, and William H. Ferris's "The African Abroad," 1911.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moses, Wilson J.

1991-01-01

Traces the historical origins of the controversy surrounding Afrocentric education versus education based on the traditional canon of the Western world to W. H. Ferris' work and his 1913 study "The African abroad or His Evolution in Western Civilization, Tracing His Development under Caucasian Milieu," which has relevance today. (SLD)

Identity Formation of American Indian Adolescents: Local, National, and Global Considerations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Markstrom, Carol A.

2011-01-01

A conceptual model is presented that approaches identity formation of American Indian adolescents according to 3 levels of social contextual influence--local, national, and global--relative to types of identity, dynamics of identity, and sources of influence. Ethnic identity of American Indians is embedded within the local cultural milieu and…

Comparing Cyberbullying and School Bullying among School Students: Prevalence, Gender, and Grade Level Differences

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lapidot-Lefler, Noam; Dolev-Cohen, Michal

2015-01-01

Recent technological developments have added cyberspace as part of adolescents' social milieu. Bullying, which is prevalent in adolescents' social environment, also takes place in cyberspace, although it is believed to have a more potent and harmful effect. A study of cyberbullying and FtF bullying could elucidate critical implications for…

The effects of pre- and probiotics on the host immune response

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is the largest interface between an animal’s internal milieu and its exterior environment. As such, it forms a physical barrier between both environments. However, the function of the GI tract in the well-being of an animal is more complex than this passive role. T...

Changing Course in Jefferson City: Reevaluating a District Initiative to Convert Under-Enrolled Elementary Schools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lochmiller, Chad R.

2018-01-01

This case positions the reader as the superintendent of Jefferson City Public Schools (pseudonym). Like many urban school districts in the United States, Jefferson City faces a complex milieu of fiscal challenges attributed to inadequate state funding and declining student enrollment. Within this case, the superintendent must address the failing…

Elaborer un exercice de grammaire (Working Out a Grammar Exercise)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Principaud, Jeanne-Marie

1977-01-01

An elaboration of the official instruction on teaching French to native speakers in elementary school. The topics covered are: Methodological development of exercises; the linguistic ability and milieu of the students; operative criteria; and the question of a logical progression or spontaneous use of grammar exercises. (Text is in French.) (AMH)

Higher Education Teachers' Experiences with Learning Analytics in Relation to Student Retention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

West, Deborah; Huijser, Henk; Heath, David; Lizzio, Alf; Toohey, Danny; Miles, Carol; Searle, Bill; Bronnimann, Jurg

2016-01-01

This paper presents findings from a study of Australian and New Zealand academics (n = 276) that teach tertiary education students. The study aimed to explore participants' early experiences of learning analytics in a higher education milieu in which data analytics is gaining increasing prominence. Broadly speaking participants were asked about:…

Principals Play Many Parts: A Review of the Research on School Principals as Special Education Leaders 2001-2011

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cobb, Cam

2015-01-01

This meta-analysis examines current North American research on the work of school principals in the special education milieu. More specifically, it considers how elementary and secondary principals envision and act in ways that foster inclusion within a school community. Three core special education-oriented domains arose in the 19 studies…

Restorative Justice in Everyday Life: Beyond the Formal Ritual

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wachtel, Ted

2003-01-01

Restorative justice provides a promising alternative to punitive models in justice and education. Most programs to date have focused on "conferencing," where victims and offenders are brought together for mediation and reconciliation. This article extends the restorative model to the entire milieu of an alternative school setting. (Contains 3…

Factors and Issues in Australian Rural Education: A Case for New Perspectives.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Darnell, F.; Higgins, A. H.

New interest by Australians in the state of rural education requires new understanding of factors affecting rural education and its related issues. Educational programs have not been flexible enough to cope with rural diversity, a key element in the milieu. Standards such as "equality of opportunity" and "uniformity" have been…

Teaching Multidigit Multiplication: Combining Multiple Frameworks to Analyse a Class Episode

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clivaz, Stéphane

2017-01-01

This paper provides an analysis of a teaching episode of the multidigit algorithm for multiplication, with a focus on the influence of the teacher's mathematical knowledge on their teaching. The theoretical framework uses Mathematical Knowledge for Teaching, mathematical pertinence of the teacher and structuration of the milieu in a descending and…

Personal Characteristics That Predict South Africans' Participation in Activities of Their Children's Schools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mmotlane, Ronnie; Winnaar, Lolita; Kivilu, Mbithi wa

2009-01-01

We investigated the extent to which personal characteristics such as age, marital status, education level, living standard measure (LSM), environmental milieu, race, gender and employment status predict parents' participation in the activities of their children's schools. The data used for analysis were drawn from 5,734 South Africans aged 16+…

School-Parent Relations in Lebanon

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

El Majzoub, Nada

2013-01-01

Lebanon is a nation whose history may be depicted as continuous social, political, and sectarian conflict due to European political meddling and a protracted civil war. Although finding common ground in this complex milieu over the past several decades has been challenging, political and educational reforms have been enacted. The role of parents…

Exploring Differences between Self-Regulated Learning Strategies of High and Low Achievers in Open Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Geduld, Bernadette

2016-01-01

Open distance students differ in their preparedness for higher education studies. Students who are less self-regulated risk failure and drop out in the challenging milieu of open distance learning. In this study, the differences between the application of self-regulated learning strategies by low and high achievers were explored. A multi-method…

Empowering Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: A Training Manual for Group Leaders. Springer Series on Life Styles and Issues in Aging.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cox, Carole B.

Noting that grandparents in the parenting role are often overwhelmed by the problems of their children, grandchildren, and the social milieu in which they live, this manual presents a 14-session workshop series designed to empower grandparents who are raising their grandchildren alone. Designed to complement "To Grandmother's House We Go and…

Teaching and Learning Competent Historical Documentary Making: Lessons from National History Day Winners

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fehn, Bruce R.; Schul, James E.

2011-01-01

Today's students grow up in a technological milieu of hand-held computers with high storage capacities, internet access, and the ability to shoot high definition photographs and video. As such, they are empowered to construct representations of the past virtually "on the run." In this article, the authors investigated the historical "and"…

CULTURE SHOCK.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

WEINSTEIN, GERALD; AND OTHERS

IN A PANEL, GEORGE BRAGLE AND NATHAN GOULD STRESS TEACHER PREPARATION TO COPE WITH THE THREATENING IMPACT OF CULTURE OR REALITY SHOCK. THEY RECOMMEND MODIFYING THE ATTITUDES OF TEACHERS BY ALTERING THEIR PERCEPTIONS, PROVIDING THEM WITH DIRECT EXPERIENCE WITH THE SOCIOCULTURAL MILIEU OF GHETTO SCHOOLS, AND REQUIRING THEM TO TAKE COURSES IN THE…

Anorexia Nervosa.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Westerlage, Patricia A.

The author traces the case histories of five anorexic female patients treated in the therapeutic milieu in a psychiatric inpatient unit. The history of anorexia nervosa is reviewed, incidence of the disorder is cited, and common characteristics are described. Case histories are presented in terms of events precipitating the weight loss, behavior…

Teacher Dispositions and Contract Non-Renewal

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nixon, Andy; Dam, Margaret; Packard, Abbot

2010-01-01

School principals sift through a milieu of data, perceptions, and circumstances to determine which teachers are worthy of contract renewal. This paper provides a review of the research on the role that teacher dispositions play in principals' decision-making regarding contract renewals, as well as a theoretical perspective on the implications for…

Traditional & Socio-Cultural Barriers to EFL Learning: A Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ahmad, Jameel

2015-01-01

This research tends to ascertain several traditional and socio-cultural barriers to English language learning in Saudi Arabia and to explore more ways than before for making teaching and learning more effective. The findings of four quantitative and qualitative surveys conducted in this regard reveal a unique traditional and socio-cultural milieu,…

Follow Us into Our World: Feminist Scholarship on the Communication of Women of Color.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Houston, Marsha

In the highly competitive, racist milieu of the academy, even feminist scholars, anxious to advance their own careers, can be lured into ethnocentric research practices that exploit, rather than honor or illumine, the communication of women of color. Before feminist scholars write about such communication, they should seek to answer questions that…

A RESEARCH DEMONSTRATION TO ASSESS THE EFFECTIVENESS OF A SPECIAL LIVING UNIT WITHIN A UNIVERSITY DORMITORY SETTING FOR THE REHABILITATION OF STUDENTS DISABLED BY EMOTIONAL DISTURBANCE.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

SINNETT, E. ROBERT

USE OF A RESIDENCE HALL AS A THERAPEUTIC MILIEU FOR DISTURBED COLLEGE STUDENTS IS DESCRIBED IN THIS REPORT OF A RESEARCH AND DEMONSTRATION STUDY. THE EXPERIMENTAL GROUP CONSISTED OF TEN DISTURBED STUDENTS, AND A CONTROL GROUP WAS COMPOSED OF 10 VOLUNTEER STUDENTS. ALL STUDENTS PARTICIPATED IN THE REGULAR RESIDENCE HALL PROGRAMS (ORGANIZATIONAL…

Filtering Shakespeare Teaching through Curricular Commonplaces

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rice, Mary

2012-01-01

Schwab (1978) argued that curriculum emerged in the commonplaces of teacher, learner, subject matter and milieu. It was in these four frames that I narratively explored my own development as an English teacher and curriculum planner around Shakespeare's work, particularly "The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet." In this narrative, I relate four…

Tracing Lines of Meaning: A Course Redesign for Dance Pedagogy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Enghauser, Rebecca Gose

2012-01-01

The 21st-century dance milieu demands that a dancer possess a highly diverse skill set, including effective teaching skills and a broader appreciation of a pedagogical orientation. It is vital that in preparing dance educators, we create opportunities for students to reflect on their dance learning histories and consequential beliefs about…

Celebrating Diversity in Early Care and Education Settings: Moving beyond the Margins

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Durand, Tina M.

2010-01-01

As the USA continues to live up to its historical reputation as a nation of immigrants, early childhood professionals are increasingly faced with the challenge of supporting children and families from diverse cultural milieu. However, to truly celebrate diversity in early childhood settings, early childhood teachers and caregivers must engage in a…

Urbanism from the Perspective of Ecological Psychologists

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gump, Paul V.; Adelgerg, Bettina

1978-01-01

A perception of ecological psychology on urbanism is presented, with emphasis on the following premises: (1) Urban milieu consists of complexes of behavior settings; and (2) Size of a city should be understood in relationship to the number and variety of its settings, rather than in terms of population size. (Author/MA)

The Scriptural Cantatas "Esther" and "Jacob, et Rachel" of Elisabeth-Claude Jacquet de La Guerre: Historical Context and Performance Practice

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Buckley, Elizabeth M.

2009-01-01

This project explores two sacred cantatas of Elisabeth-Claude Jacquet de La Guerre, "Esther" and "Jacob, et Rachel". The cultural milieu in which the sacred cantatas of Jacquet de La Guerre were written and performed will be discussed, as well as possible venues for their original performances, including the Parisian salon, and…

THE ALIENATED SPEAK.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

LANE, MARY B.

A CROSS-CULTURAL NURSERY SCHOOL PROVIDED THE MILIEU IN WHICH THE FEELINGS OF THE ALIENATED POOR WERE OBSERVED. TYPICALLY, THE FAMILIES OF THE PRESCHOOL CHILDREN FEEL HOPELESS, HELPLESS, WORTHLESS, AND ISOLATED. THEIR HOPELESSNESS MAY BE A REACTION TO BEING JUDGED AS INCOMPETENT BY SOCIETY AND THEY BECOME PRESENT- RATHER THAN FUTURE-ORIENTED.…

Whole Class Language Experiences in Primary Classrooms. Monograph No. 6.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Juliebo, Moira F.

The inclusion of talk, written language, and body language are critically important in primary classrooms. Although reading and writing may be regarded as cognitive activities, they are embedded in a social/cultural milieu, and the practice of mechanical decoding as a necessary precedent to real reading is not pedagogically sound. A whole class…

The Heart of the Matter: Cardiac Manifestations of Endocrine Disease

PubMed Central

Binu, Aditya John; Cherian, Kripa Elizabeth; Kapoor, Nitin; Chacko, Sujith Thomas; George, Oommen; Paul, Thomas Vizhalil

2017-01-01

Endocrine disorders manifest as a disturbance in the milieu of multiple organ systems. The cardiovascular system may be directly affected or alter its function to maintain the state of homeostasis. In this article, we aim to review the pathophysiology, diagnosis, clinical features and management of cardiac manifestations of various endocrine disorders. PMID:29285459

Faculty Development Curriculum: What Informs It?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Elliott, Robert W.

2014-01-01

With the current milieu of current legislation and continued budget reductions for higher education, institutions are faced with being more creative in their efforts to reduce spending while achieving their stated mission. The purpose of this paper is to inform college administrators and faculty about the sources used to inform faculty development…

Evangelizing Eugenics: A Brief Historiography of Popular and Formal American Eugenics Education (1908-1948)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kohlman, Michael J.

2012-01-01

This article examines the history of the American Eugenics movement's penetration into the formal and popular educational milieu during the first half of the 20th Century, and includes a review of some recent scholarly research on eugenic themes in education and popular culture. Apologists have dismissed the American Eugenics movement as a…

Will concern for biodiversity spell doom to tropical forest management?

Treesearch

A.E. Lugo

1999-01-01

Arguments against active tropical management are analyzed in light of available data and new research that shows tropical forests to be more resilient after disturbances than previously thought. Tropical forest management involves a diverse array of human activity embedded in a complex social and natural environment. Within this milieu, forest structure and composition...

Shyness and the College Admission Process: Who is Being Left Out?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hanley, Jr., Thomas A.

2005-01-01

As professionals on both sides of the admission desk, there are several questions we should ask ourselves with regard to this issue. For example, do outgoing students make more positive contributions to the academic milieu and social fabric of a university than reserved students??or are their contributions simply more visible? Do college…

US Higher Education in a Budgetary Vortex--1992-2007: Tracing the Positioning of Academe in the Context of Growing Inequality

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

de Oliver, Miguel; Briscoe, Felecia M.

2011-01-01

Through comparative statistical data of public investment trends in higher education, the institution of higher education in the US is contemporarily contextualized within the growing milieu of disparity. Specifically, this study focuses on the period from 1992 to 2007 to see if a mitigation of the growing economic disparity projected per the…

Common Core, Commonplaces, and Community in Teaching Reading

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Roskos, Kathleen; Neuman, Susan B.

2013-01-01

Joseph Schwab, a curriculum theorist, described four commonplaces, or universals, of teaching: content, students, milieu and teachers. This article considers how the Reading Standards of the ELA-CCSS are shaping these commonplaces in the teaching of reading. The organization of the Reading Standards, for example, focuses on two broad grade bands,…

Indian Culture and Industrialization.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bigart, Robert J.

Since factories were developed by and for Western culture, those on American Indian reservations need to be adjusted to a nonwestern social and cultural milieu. Among Indian cultural traits which differ from Western culture are independence, nature of authority, attitude toward property and nature, competition, rewards system, and sense of time.…

Attaining Visual Literacy Using Simplified Graphics in Industry.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burton, Terry

In the current milieu of ISO 9000 certification, just-in-time engineering (JIT), demand flow technology (DFT), and total quality management (TQM), industry is attempting to implement available technology for the creation, control, and delivery of documentation. In most cases, their efforts are in need of outside resources to analyze, develop,…

Symposium: "Crash": Rhetorically Wrecking Discourses of Race, Tolerance, and White Privilege

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nunley, Vorris L.

2007-01-01

From within the milieu of race and identity fatigue emerges "Crash." Winner of three Academy Awards, including Best Picture, "Crash" addresses how the fluidity of identity is pooled, ebbed, blocked, directed, dammed up. How identity and subjectivity are dammed up and mediated through the force of the anxieties, fears, and frustrations of people…

Modeling Fear of Crime in Dallas Neighborhoods: A Test of Social Capital Theory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ferguson, Kristin M.; Mindel, Charles H.

2007-01-01

This study tested a model of the effects of different predictors on individuals' levels of fear of crime in Dallas neighborhoods. Given its dual focus on individual perceptions and community-level interactions, social capital theory was selected as the most appropriate framework to explore fear of crime within the neighborhood milieu. A structural…

Treating Drug Addiction in the Minority Communities: The Decade Ahead.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Drew, Joseph S.

While scholars are not in accord on the basic causes of contemporary drug abuse among minority Americans, most do agree that the social milieu of the drug abuser is fundamental. It has been urged that racism, poverty, police brutality and harrassment, the economics of addiction, the hopelessness of ghetto life, peer pressure, educational…

The investigation of the fluorine uptake in tooth enamel after the application of a NaF containing varnish

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Plier, F.; Zschau, H. E.; Otto, G.

1992-03-01

The 935 keV resonance of the 19F( p, p' γ) 19F nuclear reaction was used to determine flourine depth profiles in human tooth enamel for three separate cases. These investigations allowed conclusions to be drawn about the interaction processes between the oral milieu containing fluorine, and the enamel surface.

Cultural Models in Communication with Infants: Lessons from Kikaikelaki, Cameroon and Muenster, Germany

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Demuth, Carolin; Keller, Heidi; Yovsi, Relindis D.

2012-01-01

Child rearing is a universal task, yet there are differing solutions according to the dynamics of socio-cultural milieu in which children are raised. Cultural models of what is considered good or bad parenting become explicit in everyday routine practices. Focusing on early mother-infant interactions in this article we examine the discursive…

A Reflective Conversation with Kobus Maree, Faculty of Education, University of Pretoria, South Africa

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shaughnessy, Michael F.; Moore, Tammy Lynne; Maree, Kobus

2013-01-01

Always regarded as somewhat of an "outsider" (the child of an English-speaking (Catholic) mother and an Afrikaans (Protestant) father in an exclusively Afrikaans milieu) and growing up extremely poor, seeing the hardship of others and realising how much talent was going to waste, Kobus Maree took a particular interest in gifted…

The Use and Performance of Hymnody, Spirituals, and Gospels in the Black Church.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maultsby, Portia K.

1983-01-01

Explores use and performance of music in the Black church through examination of (1) the events that led to the conversion of Blacks to Christianity; (2) the formation of independent Black religious groups; and (3) the social and cultural milieu that fostered the development of a unique Black religious music. (Author/ML)

Hard-Core Unemployment: A Selected, Annotated Bibliography.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cameron, Colin, Comp.; Menon, Anila Bhatt, Comp.

This annotated bibliography contains references to various films, articles, and books on the subject of hard-core unemployment, and is divided into the following sections: (1) The Sociology of the Hard-Core Milieu, (2) Training Programs, (3) Business and the Hard-Core, (4) Citations of Miscellaneous References on Hard-Core Unemployment, (5)…

Doing Counterwork in the Age of a Counterfeit President: Resisting a Trump-DeVos Education Agenda

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Green, Terrance L.; Castro, Andrene

2017-01-01

In this article, we explore and conceptualize "counterwork" in education as a critical element for resistance and progressive social change in the era of Donald Trump's presidency. We first discuss education in the context of a Trump-DeVos administration, and how this milieu necessitates activist research and counterwork. Grounded in a…

How Higher Education Institutions Contribute to the Growth in Regions of Europe?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lilles, Alo; Rõigas, Kärt

2017-01-01

Various studies show that higher education institutions contribute to regional economic development by R&D, creation of human capital, knowledge and technology transfer, and by creation of a favourable milieu. It is brought out that the basic procedure is to sum expenditures of the college community (students, faculty, staff and visitors)…

Sailing through Stormy Seas: An Israeli Kindergarten Teacher Confronts Holocaust Remembrance Day

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brody, David

2009-01-01

The young child's exposure to disaster and trauma through the media or in the social milieu poses a challenge for the early childhood educator who is faced with responding and educating in a developmentally appropriate manner. In the case of public commemoration of a national disaster, the classroom implications are seemingly unavoidable. This…

A Retrospective Examination of a University's Thirteen Years in Latin America.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blood, Ronald E.; And Others

The context of educational reform within which U.S. higher education has worked in selected Latin American countries is examined, with attention directed to the specific experience of the University of New Mexico. The evolution of the Latin American Programs in Education office (LAPE) in the university setting, the organizational milieu in which…

Treatment of Ligament Constructs with Exercise-conditioned Serum: A Translational Tissue Engineering Model.

PubMed

Lee-Barthel, Ann; Baar, Keith; West, Daniel W D

2017-06-11

In vitro experiments are essential to understand biological mechanisms; however, the gap between monolayer tissue culture and human physiology is large, and translation of findings is often poor. Thus, there is ample opportunity for alternative experimental approaches. Here we present an approach in which human cells are isolated from human anterior cruciate ligament tissue remnants, expanded in culture, and used to form engineered ligaments. Exercise alters the biochemical milieu in the blood such that the function of many tissues, organs and bodily processes are improved. In this experiment, ligament construct culture media was supplemented with experimental human serum that has been 'conditioned' by exercise. Thus the intervention is more biologically relevant since an experimental tissue is exposed to the full endogenous biochemical milieu, including binding proteins and adjunct compounds that may be altered in tandem with the activity of an unknown agent of interest. After treatment, engineered ligaments can be analyzed for mechanical function, collagen content, morphology, and cellular biochemistry. Overall, there are four major advantages versus traditional monolayer culture and animal models, of the physiological model of ligament tissue that is presented here. First, ligament constructs are three-dimensional, allowing for mechanical properties (i.e., function) such as ultimate tensile stress, maximal tensile load, and modulus, to be quantified. Second, the enthesis, the interface between boney and sinew elements, can be examined in detail and within functional context. Third, preparing media with post-exercise serum allows for the effects of the exercise-induced biochemical milieu, which is responsible for the wide range of health benefits of exercise, to be investigated in an unbiased manner. Finally, this experimental model advances scientific research in a humane and ethical manner by replacing the use of animals, a core mandate of the National

Alterations of hair cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone in mother-infant-dyads with maternal childhood maltreatment.

PubMed

Schury, K; Koenig, A M; Isele, D; Hulbert, A L; Krause, S; Umlauft, M; Kolassa, S; Ziegenhain, U; Karabatsiakis, A; Reister, F; Guendel, H; Fegert, J M; Kolassa, I-T

2017-06-06

Child maltreatment (CM) has severe effects on psychological and physical health. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the major stress system of the body, is dysregulated after CM. The analysis of cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in scalp hair presents a new and promising methodological approach to assess chronic HPA axis activity. This study investigated the effects of CM on HPA axis activity in the last trimester of pregnancy by measuring the two important signaling molecules, cortisol and DHEA in hair, shortly after parturition. In addition, we explored potential effects of maternal CM on her offspring's endocrine milieu during pregnancy by measuring cortisol and DHEA in newborns' hair. CM was assessed with the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ). Cortisol and DHEA were measured in hair samples of 94 mothers and 30 newborns, collected within six days after delivery. Associations of maternal CM on her own and her newborn's cortisol as well as DHEA concentrations in hair were analyzed with heteroscedastic regression models. Higher CM was associated with significantly higher DHEA levels, but not cortisol concentrations in maternal hair. Moreover, maternal CM was positively, but only as a non-significant trend, associated with higher DHEA levels in the newborns' hair. Results suggest that the steroid milieu of the mother, at least on the level of DHEA, is altered after CM, possibly leading to non-genomic transgenerational effects on the developing fetus in utero. Indeed, we observed on an explorative level first hints that the endocrine milieu for the developing child might be altered in CM mothers. These results need extension and replication in future studies. The measurement of hair steroids in mothers and their newborns is promising, but more research is needed to better understand the effects of a maternal history of CM on the developing fetus.

Treatment of Ligament Constructs with Exercise-conditioned Serum: A Translational Tissue Engineering Model

PubMed Central

Lee-Barthel, Ann; Baar, Keith; West, Daniel W. D.

2017-01-01

In vitro experiments are essential to understand biological mechanisms; however, the gap between monolayer tissue culture and human physiology is large, and translation of findings is often poor. Thus, there is ample opportunity for alternative experimental approaches. Here we present an approach in which human cells are isolated from human anterior cruciate ligament tissue remnants, expanded in culture, and used to form engineered ligaments. Exercise alters the biochemical milieu in the blood such that the function of many tissues, organs and bodily processes are improved. In this experiment, ligament construct culture media was supplemented with experimental human serum that has been 'conditioned' by exercise. Thus the intervention is more biologically relevant since an experimental tissue is exposed to the full endogenous biochemical milieu, including binding proteins and adjunct compounds that may be altered in tandem with the activity of an unknown agent of interest. After treatment, engineered ligaments can be analyzed for mechanical function, collagen content, morphology, and cellular biochemistry. Overall, there are four major advantages versus traditional monolayer culture and animal models, of the physiological model of ligament tissue that is presented here. First, ligament constructs are three-dimensional, allowing for mechanical properties (i.e., function) such as ultimate tensile stress, maximal tensile load, and modulus, to be quantified. Second, the enthesis, the interface between boney and sinew elements, can be examined in detail and within functional context. Third, preparing media with post-exercise serum allows for the effects of the exercise-induced biochemical milieu, which is responsible for the wide range of health benefits of exercise, to be investigated in an unbiased manner. Finally, this experimental model advances scientific research in a humane and ethical manner by replacing the use of animals, a core mandate of the National

Outdoor Education Gives Fewer Demands for Action Regulation and an Increased Variability of Affordances

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fiskum, Tove Anita; Jacobsen, Karl

2013-01-01

In children's lives there are a lot of instigators for actions in every milieu and situation. When children grow older, the cortical activity starts to regulate the action instigation from the limbic system. The school system makes demands of action regulation for children. In outdoor education the many instigators for actions are not under the…

Peddling Poverty for Profit: Elements of Oppression in Ruby Payne's Framework

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gorski, Paul C.

2008-01-01

Ruby Payne, CEO of aha! Process, Inc., and author of "A Framework for Understanding Poverty" (2005), has become one of the most influential figures in the U.S. public education milieu. Payne's framework, built largely upon understanding the "culture" of poverty, instructs educators on the values and mindsets poor students carry into the classroom…

On the Nature of the Semiotic Structure of the Didactic Action: The Joint Action Theory in Didactics within a Comparative Approach

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sensevy, Gérard; Gruson, Brigitte; Forest, Dominique

2015-01-01

In this paper, we first sketch the joint action theory paradigm from a general viewpoint in sciences of culture. Then we specify this generic description by focusing on the joint action theory in didactics (JATD). We elaborate on three currently developed elements of the theory: the reticence-expression dialectics; the contract-milieu dialectics,…

Sustainability Science Education in Africa: Negotiating Indigenous Ways of Living with Nature in the Third Space

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Glasson, George E.; Mhango, Ndalapa; Phiri, Absalom; Lanier, Marilyn

2010-01-01

In response to global climate change, loss of biodiversity, and the immense human impact on the carrying capacity of the earth systems, attention has been given to sustainable development worldwide. In this paper, we explore the emerging field of sustainability science within the context of the socio-cultural milieu of Malawi, a sub-Saharan…

Sociology of Twentieth Century Congregate Care of the Developmentally Disabled-Recollections

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Daly, William C.

2005-01-01

Elements of the twentieth century care facility of state origin are enumerated as the reader hopefully gets some idea of the social milieu or ethos of that period and the management profile thought to be proper and expeditious for unfortunate, homeless and poorly adjusted citizens. The life of staff and patients within these state sponsored…

Left-Wing Tragedy or Comic Opera?: A New Look at the Demise of "The Masses".

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Heinze, Kirk

Although the suppression in 1917 of "The Masses," an influential Socialist magazine, has been depicted as an American tragedy, such a narrow interpretation ignores the bizarre, confused, often comic developments and episodes that attended the magazine's end. A reexamination of the demise of "The Masses" has been made to show the milieu in which…

Argumentation in the Canadian House of Commons on the Issue of Nuclear Weapons for Canada.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jones, John Alfred

The Cuban missile crisis of October 1962 forced the Canadian House of Commons to consider whether Canadian forces in NORAD and NATO were effective without nuclear warheads on special weapons systems. This paper provides an overview of the debates and their milieu, identifies the issues involved, and analyzes the effects of the argumentation. The…

Investigating the Role of Context in Experimental Research Involving the Use of Digital Media for the Learning of Mathematics: Boundary Objects as Vehicles for Integration

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kynigos, Chronis; Psycharis, Giorgos

2009-01-01

The paper describes a study of the contexts of six teams, expert in research and development of digital media for learning mathematics, who cross-experimented in classrooms with the use of each other's artefacts. Contextual issues regarding the designed tasks and technologies, the socio-systemic milieu and the ways in which the researchers worked…

Effects of Dose Frequency of Early Communication Intervention in Young Children with and without Down Syndrome

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yoder, Paul; Woynaroski, Tiffany; Fey, Marc; Warren, Steven

2014-01-01

Children with intellectual disability were randomly assigned to receive Milieu Communication Teaching (MCT) at one 1-hr session per week (low dose frequency, LDF) or five 1-hr sessions per week (high dose frequency, HDF) over 9 months (Fey, Yoder, Warren, & Bredin-Oja, 2013. Non-Down syndrome (NDS) and Down syndrome (DS) subgroups were matched…

The Experience of Initial Management Training in ELT

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rimmer, Wayne

2016-01-01

Management training in ELT organizations is often inadequate. New managers are in severe need of training, especially for tasks which are non-pedagogical, yet they operate in a milieu where there are few opportunities for support compared with colleagues in mainstream education. The purpose of this case study, a rare evidence-based contribution to…

Middle School Teacher Education: Staying the Course during Trying Times

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

George, Paul S.

2004-01-01

In the context of today's turbulent university life, public education debates, and highly charged political milieu, the phrase "middle school teacher education" might be said to describe a less-than-quiet target of opportunity for a whole host of groups who despise the values, meanings, and the central goals of the middle school movement…

What the West Could Learn from the East: A Reflective Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zou, Yali; Craig, Cheryl J.; Poimbeauf, Rita P.

2016-01-01

Drawing on Lugones' ideas of world traveling, Dewey's notion of education as experience, and Greene's vision of seeing small/seeing big, this article inquires into lives lived in an Eastern educational milieu with attention reflectively paid to what educators in the West could learn from those in the East. Rather than focusing on mega narratives…

Student Development in Urban Commuter Colleges.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Creamer, Don G.

A conceptual view of student development and the milieu of an urban commuter college are discussed. Student development is defined as the application of human development theory, principles, and concepts in an educational setting to identify the forms of development in students to which the institution is willing and able to commit its resources.…

Moral Courage from the Perspective of Arab Teachers in Jewish Schools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baratz, Lea

2016-01-01

The current study aims to call attention to the phenomenon of female Muslim Arab teachers teaching in Israeli Jewish schools. The study examined the manner in which these female Muslim Arab teachers perceived their integration into the milieu of the Jewish schools, based on their descriptions of the various processes they experience when dealing…

The Annual Third-Year Resident Rampage: A Separation Crisis of Manageable Proportions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Merkel, William T.; Walbroehl, Gordon S.

1980-01-01

Third-year residents nearing completion of their training and preparing to leave for independent practice often appear to experience anxieties that suggest a form of separation crisis. Their negative behavior may be a way of making the old milieu less welcoming and thus easier to leave. Advice for easing the transition is offered. (JMD)

Piaget Versus Materialism: A Concordance of the Discordance.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burger, Henry G.

The purpose of this paper is to disconfirm Piaget's theory of an invariant sequence of intellectual maturation for all youths in all cultures. The author's view is that the kinds and sequences of human development vary greatly, depending on the cultural milieu. The author derives 36 propositions from Piaget's theory, dismisses 5 of them as…

Social capital and burnout among mental healthcare providers.

PubMed

Eliacin, Johanne; Flanagan, Mindy; Monroe-DeVita, Maria; Wasmuth, Sarah; Salyers, Michelle P; Rollins, Angela L

2018-01-06

Provider burnout is a critical problem in mental health services. Contributing factors have been explicated across three domains: personal, job and organizational characteristics. Of these, organizational characteristics, including workplace environment, appear to be particularly important given that most interventions addressing burnout via the other domains (e.g. bolstering personal coping skills) have been modestly effective at best. This study builds on previous research by using social capital as a framework for the experience of work social milieu, and aims to provide a richer understanding of how workplace social environment might impact burnout and help create more effective ways to reduce burnout. Providers (n = 40) taking part in a larger burnout intervention study were randomly selected to take part in interviews regarding their workplace environment and burnout. Participant responses were analyzed thematically. Workplace social milieu revolved around two primary themes: workplace social capital in provider burnout and the protective qualities of social capital in cohesive work teams that appear to mitigate burnout. These results imply that work environments where managers support collaboration and social interaction among work teams may reduce burnout.

Fetal sex-based differences in maternal hormones, angiogenic factors, and immune mediators during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

PubMed

Enninga, Elizabeth Ann L; Nevala, Wendy K; Creedon, Douglas J; Markovic, Svetomir N; Holtan, Shernan G

2015-03-01

Several pregnancy complications have disparities based on the sex of the fetus. It is unknown whether the sex of the fetus differentially alters the maternal immune milieu, potentially contributing to the observed differences. Using maternal plasma collected during 38 uncomplicated pregnancies (19 males, 19 females), we compared levels of cytokines, sex hormones, and angiogenic factors throughout gestation and postpartum. Male fetal sex was associated with higher levels of proinflammatory cytokines (G-CSF, IL-12p70, IL-21, and IL-33) and angiogenic factors (PlGF and VEGF-A) compared with female fetal sex at multiple timepoints. Female fetal sex was associated with higher levels of regulatory cytokines (IL-5, IL-9, IL-17, and IL-25). IL-27 increased throughout pregnancy regardless of fetal sex. There was no fetal sex-based difference in analyte concentrations at the postpartum measurement. Women carrying a male fetus exhibit a more proinflammatory/proangiogenic immune milieu than women carrying a female fetus. © 2014 The Authors. American Journal of Reproductive Immunology Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Intragastric nitrites, nitrosamines, and bacterial overgrowth during cimetidine treatment.

PubMed Central

Stockbrugger, R W; Cotton, P B; Eugenides, N; Bartholomew, B A; Hill, M J; Walters, C L

1982-01-01

A six week course of cimetidine (1 g/day) healed peptic ulcers in 20 of 23 patients (14 with duodenal ulcer, nine with gastric ulcer). Reduction of basal acid output by 73% and peak acid output by 36% led to a rise in concentrations of intragastric aerobic bacteria and nitrate-reducing bacteria. While the mean intragastric concentration of nitrate was unchanged by treatment, there were statistically significant rises in nitrite and N-nitrosamine concentrations. The conversion from nitrates to nitrites was closely related to the occurrence of nitrate-reducing bacteria. In three patients the intragastric milieu had returned to normal two months after cimetidine treatment had been discontinued. Mean nitrite and N-nitrosamine concentrations did not return to pre-treatment levels in the group of eight patients who remained on maintenance cimetidine (0.4 g at night-time) for three months after the full dose treatment. This study shows that cimetidine treatment can create an intragastric milieu resembling that of atrophic gastritis. Large scale and long-term studies are necessary to establish whether these findings have any clinical significance. PMID:7173716

Inclusion in political and public life: the experiences of people with intellectual disability on government disability advisory bodies in Australia.

PubMed

Frawley, Patsie; Bigby, Christine

2011-03-01

Civil and political participation lies at the core of citizenship. Increasingly, people with intellectual disability are members of disability advisory bodies. This study investigated the political orientations of advisory body members with intellectual disability, their participatory experiences, and the types of support they received. The 9 people with intellectual disability who in 2005 were members of disability advisory bodies at a state, national, and Victorian local government level were interviewed, together with 12 other members or secretariat staff of these bodies. Observations were also conducted of advisory body meetings. The political perspective of members with intellectual disability varied, but all had a background in self-advocacy. They found the work hard but rewarding and encountered both practical and intangible obstacles to participation. Members received varying types of practical support, but a supportive collegial milieu was characteristic among members who felt most confident about their participation. The milieu, structures, and processes of advisory bodies must all be adjusted to accommodate people with intellectual disability if they are to participate meaningfully.

Exploring the role of genome and structural ions in preventing viral capsid collapse during dehydration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martín-González, Natalia; Guérin Darvas, Sofía M.; Durana, Aritz; Marti, Gerardo A.; Guérin, Diego M. A.; de Pablo, Pedro J.

2018-03-01

Even though viruses evolve mainly in liquid milieu, their horizontal transmission routes often include episodes of dry environment. Along their life cycle, some insect viruses, such as viruses from the Dicistroviridae family, withstand dehydrated conditions with presently unknown consequences to their structural stability. Here, we use atomic force microscopy to monitor the structural changes of viral particles of Triatoma virus (TrV) after desiccation. Our results demonstrate that TrV capsids preserve their genome inside, conserving their height after exposure to dehydrating conditions, which is in stark contrast with other viruses that expel their genome when desiccated. Moreover, empty capsids (without genome) resulted in collapsed particles after desiccation. We also explored the role of structural ions in the dehydration process of the virions (capsid containing genome) by chelating the accessible cations from the external solvent milieu. We observed that ion suppression helps to keep the virus height upon desiccation. Our results show that under drying conditions, the genome of TrV prevents the capsid from collapsing during dehydration, while the structural ions are responsible for promoting solvent exchange through the virion wall.

Ichthyoplankton abundance and variance in a large river system concerns for long-term monitoring

USGS Publications Warehouse

Holland-Bartels, Leslie E.; Dewey, Michael R.; Zigler, Steven J.

1995-01-01

System-wide spatial patterns of ichthyoplankton abundance and variability were assessed in the upper Mississippi and lower Illinois rivers to address the experimental design and statistical confidence in density estimates. Ichthyoplankton was sampled from June to August 1989 in primary milieus (vegetated and non-vegated backwaters and impounded areas, main channels and main channel borders) in three navigation pools (8, 13 and 26) of the upper Mississippi River and in a downstream reach of the Illinois River. Ichthyoplankton densities varied among stations of similar aquatic landscapes (milieus) more than among subsamples within a station. An analysis of sampling effort indicated that the collection of single samples at many stations in a given milieu type is statistically and economically preferable to the collection of multiple subsamples at fewer stations. Cluster analyses also revealed that stations only generally grouped by their preassigned milieu types. Pilot studies such as this can define station groupings and sources of variation beyond an a priori habitat classification. Thus the minimum intensity of sampling required to achieve a desired statistical confidence can be identified before implementing monitoring efforts.

Owner response to companion animal death: development of a theory and practical implications.

PubMed Central

Adams, C L; Bonnett, B N; Meek, A H

1999-01-01

This study used an inductive research method known as grounded theory to develop a theory to describe owner response to the death of a pet. Participants were identified from 8 veterinary clinics in Wellington Country, Ontario. Eighty percent (8 of 10) of the practices approached agreed to participate and there was a 77% (44 of 57) participation rate by clients. Nondirective interviews were conducted with participants approximately 10 days following the death of their pet, and at 3, 6, and 12 mo thereafter. The theory developed suggests that people's reactions are best described as a social and psychological search for meaning. Factors that contributed to the search for meaning included societal values and norms, the cultural milieu of pet death, and the cultural milieu of veterinary medicine. Other factors, such as the participant's personal beliefs, life stage, critical life events, and animal attributes, either alleviated or aggravated the experience. The outcome for participants grieving the death of a pet was a self-governing approach to coping with the death. Practical implications and suggestions for veterinarians are presented. PMID:9919365

Owner response to companion animal death: development of a theory and practical implications.

PubMed

Adams, C L; Bonnett, B N; Meek, A H

1999-01-01

This study used an inductive research method known as grounded theory to develop a theory to describe owner response to the death of a pet. Participants were identified from 8 veterinary clinics in Wellington Country, Ontario. Eighty percent (8 of 10) of the practices approached agreed to participate and there was a 77% (44 of 57) participation rate by clients. Nondirective interviews were conducted with participants approximately 10 days following the death of their pet, and at 3, 6, and 12 mo thereafter. The theory developed suggests that people's reactions are best described as a social and psychological search for meaning. Factors that contributed to the search for meaning included societal values and norms, the cultural milieu of pet death, and the cultural milieu of veterinary medicine. Other factors, such as the participant's personal beliefs, life stage, critical life events, and animal attributes, either alleviated or aggravated the experience. The outcome for participants grieving the death of a pet was a self-governing approach to coping with the death. Practical implications and suggestions for veterinarians are presented.

The effects of crowding agents Dextran-70k and PEG-8k on actin structure and unfolding reaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gagarskaia, Iuliia A.; Povarova, Olga I.; Uversky, Vladimir N.; Kuznetsova, Irina M.; Turoverov, Konstantin K.

2017-07-01

Recently, an increasing number of studies on proteins' structure, stability and folding are trying to bring the experimental conditions closer to those existing in a living cell, namely to the conditions of macromolecular crowding. In vitro such conditions are typically imitated by the ;inert; highly water-soluble polymers with different hydrodynamic dimensions. In this work, the effects of crowded milieu on the structure and conformational stability of actin, which is a key component of the muscle contraction system, was examined. The crowded milieu was simulated by high concentrations of PEG-8k or Dextran-70k. It was revealed that both crowding agents decelerated but not inhibited actin unfolding and made a compact state of inactivated actin thermodynamically more favorable in comparison with the unfolded state. At the same time, the high viscosity of the solution of crowding agents slowed down all processes and especially inactivated actin formation, since it involves the interaction of 14-16 partially unfolded actin molecules. The effects of crowding agent were larger when its hydrodynamic dimensions were closer to the size of globular actin.

The Technician's Peer Groups: A Review of Some Research on High School Students. Engineering Technology Education Study Report No. 5.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Defore, Jesse J.

This paper describes briefly the secondary education milieu from which has come students in engineering technology education programs. The paper is based entirely on the published reports of other writers and is intended only to provide an overview of the research which has been done on the American high school, on American high school students,…

A Study of Some Issues Which May Influence the Question of a Role for Free-Fall Weapons.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-06-01

Environment Precision-Guided Munitions The Middle East American Public Ophinion General Target Categories The Horn of Africa Force Application Environ- and...DISCUSSION ........... ....................... 5 I. THE GENERAL MILIEU OF FORCE APPLICATION IN THE 198OS ........ ii A. Some Aspects of the...Force Application Environment of the 1980s ......... .. 32 IV. GENERAL TARGET CATEGORIES AND DELIVERY SYSTEMS ............ ... 38 A. Air Supremacy

Intellectual Biography in Higher Education: The Public Career of Earl J. McGrath as a Case Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reid, John Y.

The method of writing an intellectual biography and the public career of Earl J. McGrath in the post-World War I cultural milieu are analyzed. One analytical framework is adapted from cultural anthropology and is used to describe the relationship of educational systems to other social systems and to culture as a whole. The second analytic frame,…

Worlds Apart: Why Poverty Persists in Rural America.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Duncan, Cynthia M.

This book examines the nature of persistent poverty in two impoverished towns in the coalfields of Appalachia and the Mississippi Delta and a contrasting social milieu in a prosperous but remote rural mill town in northern New England. Drawing on 350 in-depth interviews and census data, the book analyzes the dynamics of poverty, politics, and…

Communication and Culture in Ancient India and China.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Oliver, Robert T.

The rhetorical theories and practices of ancient India and China provide the themes of this book. An examination of the relationship between culture and rhetoric, East and West, opens the book. The rhetorical milieu of India, its philosophy, social system, and uses of speech, leads to a probing of the caste system and speech of the Brahmins.…

Breeding Poverty? Great Issues Lecture.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Latham, Glenn

People classified as "cultural familial retarded" form a segment of the U.S. population that is easily overlooked by society, yet constitutes a growing problem. Individuals with this inherited form of mental retardation (estimated to number in excess of 5 million) are reared in a culturally inferior milieu and have a need for life-long social…

Reforming U.S. Education for the Academic Study of Religion

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Waggoner, Michael D.

2011-01-01

Religion and spirituality are gaining renewed appreciation as key elements of the cultural milieu. Yet there has been an inattention to the academic study of religion and spirituality in U.S. education due to several contributing causes. Central to remediating this deficiency is an understanding of these causes and how the reform of key factors in…

Lesbian Mothers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Green, G. Dorsey

Clinical interest in lesbian mothers has begun to emerge from the closet in recent years. Culture has dictated the milieu in which lesbian parents live and has prevented most therapists from being able to respond to lesbian parenting as a healthy option. In a heterosexist world, virtually all public displays of sexuality or family life are…

Towards a Pedagogy of a New Social Contract: Lessons from Participatory Budgeting in the State of Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Streck, Danilo R.

This paper analyzes the pedagogical dimension within the process of participatory budgeting in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, taking into consideration the local and regional culture, as well as the political milieu. The question is whether, in this social movement which involved around 400,000 people in 2001, signs can be identified that…

Towards a Pedagogy of a New Social Contract: Lessons from the Participatory Budget in the State of Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Streck, Danilo Romeu

2004-01-01

The paper analyses the pedagogical dimension of the process of Participatory Budgeting in the State of Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil), taking into consideration the local and regional culture as well as the wider political milieu. The question this paper engages with is whether, in this social movement involving around 400,000 people in 2001, there…

The Theory of Higher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brubacher, John S.

1970-01-01

Discusses two current theories of the university -- one that it is an agency detached from the social milieu that provides a rationale for teaching and research, the other that it is caught in the stresses and strains of contemporary events and provides a rationale for teaching, research, and public service. Adapted from paper presented at meeting…

Perceptions of Teacher Collegial Work Groups at the Department Level in Southern California

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Guerrero, Frank C.

2012-01-01

Since the inception of a "Nation at Risk" (1983) and the gradual growth of the school reform movement over the following several decades, the social and political milieu that exist today under No Child Left Behind (NCLB) can be best described as an era in which public education is fending itself from extinction and takeover, often from…

Techniques for Teaching Standard English Composition to English as a Second Dialect Students.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Edwards, Thomas O.

English as a second dialect (ESD) students are those who have developed linguistic patterns from their parents and other members of their cultural milieu. Since the ESD students seldom find themselves in a setting that demands the use of standard English, they come to higher education with a well developed linguistic pattern that is alien to…

The Augustinian Values Institute: Preserving a Legacy of Augustinian Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baker, Stephen J.

2016-01-01

A concern for Catholic educators is how to keep Catholic schools viable and healthy in a milieu of diminishing numbers of religious as well as a very complex and changing world. This article addresses the Augustinians' response to the challenge to keep the Order's mission of education alive and thriving in the 21st century. This article hopes to…

Understanding "The Great Gatsby" Online: A Student Casebook to Issues, Sources, and Historical Documents.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gross, Dalton; Gross, MaryJean

Today, more than 70 years after its publication, the novel "The Great Gatsby" seems as fresh and pertinent to American life as it did in the 1920s. The social, cultural, and historical milieu of the 1920s reflected in its pages is not so very different from that of today. This interdisciplinary collection of commentary and collateral…

Television and Social Behavior; Reports and Papers, Volume I: Media Content and Control.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Comstock, George A., Ed.; Rubinstein, Eli A., Ed.

Six studies and an overview focus on the amount and character of the violence portrayed on television (TV), the circumstances and milieu in which this violent fare is created, and the formal and informal influences which affect the selection and prohibition of TV content. The overview serves as an introduction to the six studies and summarizes…

Do environmental effects on human emotions cause cardiovascular disorders?

PubMed

Rosenman, R H

1997-01-01

Environmental influences on human health include the effects of toxic materials and adverse ecological factors. Natural milieu stressors also affect emotions that may adversely affect cardiovascular function and precipitate or otherwise contribute to complications of cardiovascular diseases. However, although variously hypothesized, there is inadequate evidence that they directly contribute to the pathogenesis of sustained hypertension or coronary atherosclerosis.

A Study of On-the-Job Training. Technical Paper No. 13.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Scribner, Sylvia; Sachs, Patricia

A case study of on-the-job training in a factory stockroom took a close look at the working milieu, the way experienced people did their jobs within it, and the means used to induct (train) newcomers into work activities. Stockroom work and stockroom training were considered to represent two different activity systems; the interplay of these two…

Student Teachers' General and Content-Specific Pedagogical Development within a Mathematics Milieu

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Piccolo, Diana L.; Capraro, Mary Margaret; Capraro, Robert M.

2010-01-01

Fourteen elementary and 6 middle level student teachers were observed and interviewed throughout their initial field placement teaching experience. The Classroom Observation and Performance Assessment for Teachers-Revised (COPAT-R) observation instrument and semistructured interviews were used to compare general and content-specific pedagogical…

Financial management of large, multi-center trials in a challenging funding milieu.

PubMed

Lovegreen, Olivia; Riggs, Danielle; Staten, Myrlene A; Sheehan, Patricia; Pittas, Anastassios G

2018-05-03

Randomized clinical trials that have public health implications but no or low potential for commercial gain are predominantly funded by governmental (e.g., National Institutes of Health (NIH)) and not-for-profit organizations. Our objective was to develop an alternative clinical trial site funding model for judicious allocation of declining public research funds. In the Vitamin D and Type 2 Diabetes (D2d) study, an NIH-supported, large clinical trial testing the effect of vitamin D supplementation on incident diabetes in 2423 participants at high risk for diabetes, a hybrid financial management model for supporting collaborating clinical sites was developed and applied. The funding model employed two reimbursement components: Core (for study start-up and partial efforts throughout the study, ~40% of the total site budget), invoiced by sites, and Performance-Based Payments (for successful enrollment of participants and completion of follow-up visits, ~60% of the total site budget), automatically issued to the sites by the Coordinating Center based on actual recruitment and visits conducted. Underperforming sites transitioned to Performance-Based Payments only. Recruitment occurred from October 2013 through December 2016, requiring one additional year than the 2-year projection. Median enrollment at each site was 88 participants (range 29-318; 20 to 205% of the site target). At the end of year 1, study-wide recruitment was at 12% of the target (vs. 50% projected) and 12% of the total grant award was invested. The model constantly evaluated sites' needs and re-allocated resources to meet the study enrollment goal. If D2d had issued cost reimbursement subaward agreements and sites invoiced for their entire budget, 83% of the award would have been spent for all study activities over the first 4 years of the trial compared to 65% of the award spent (US$26M) under the hybrid model used by D2d. It is feasible to foster a hybrid financial management approach to steward limited available public funds for research in a dynamic and consistent way that does not compromise the trial's scientific integrity and ensures conservation of funds to complete recruitment and continue to follow up participants.

Computer-task testing of rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) in the social milieu.

PubMed

Washburn, D A; Harper, S; Rumbaugh, D M

1994-07-01

Previous research has demonstrated that a behavior and performance testing paradigm, in which rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) manipulate a joystick to respond to computer-generated stimuli, provides environmental enrichment and supports the psychological well-being of captive research animals. The present study was designed to determine whether computer-task activity would be affected by pair-housing animals that had previously been tested only in their single-animal home cages. No differences were observed in productivity or performance levels as a function of housing condition, even when the animals were required to "self-identify" prior to performing each trial. The data indicate that cognitive challenge and control are as preferred by the animals as social opportunities, and that, together with comfort/health considerations, each must be addressed for the assurance of psychological well-being.

Remote Sensing of the Propagation Environment (La Teledetection du Milieu de Propagation)

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-02-01

iadio prpo1agatioi pujposes may be t t the o it et fi fiction. In the Jsk forniirism, the rle i ad not the ^tio * , nmbiiture is a sunid, to, fb loi ...described by Theevaf-tioftv duct sigiificaitly ,Mfects? X-bandradar Liu, Kitsais, and.Businger (LKB model) [5], was used to detitio i-i i*ilitie.bf loi ... Trois sondes ant 0t6 plactes respectiveatent A 1.5 at, rioures A 20 GHz, onpeut no considdrer- quo le premier 10 m, et -25-m au-dessus do ]a mor. Ces

3D Modelling of Urban Terrain (Modelisation 3D de milieu urbain)

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-09-01

Panel • IST Information Systems Technology Panel • NMSG NATO Modelling and Simulation Group • SAS System Analysis and Studies Panel • SCI... Systems Concepts and Integration Panel • SET Sensors and Electronics Technology Panel These bodies are made up of national representatives as well as...of a part of it may be made for individual use only. The approval of the RTA Information Management Systems Branch is required for more than one

Hormonal profile impact on female sexual function in young women

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stoian, Dana; Craciunescu, Mihalea; Craina, Marius; Pater, Liana; Pater, Flavius

2014-12-01

Female sexual function is dependent, in physiological milieu upon hormonal impulses: estradiol, testosterone, cortisol, progesterone, prolactin and TSH. Out study tries to appreciate the impact of testosterone, estradiol and prolactin, the major hormones involved in the sexual response, on the normal sexual function. This parameter is approximated by the value of the total FSFI score, a validated international structured interview.

Harmonizing the Educational Globe. World Polity, Cultural Features, and the Challenges to Educational Research

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Trohler, Daniel

2010-01-01

The general thesis of this paper is that the motives of the currently dominant global educational governance are rooted in a specific cultural milieu in the time of the Cold War, more precisely in the late 1950s, heading to a harmonious world. The more specific thesis is that a series of failures in the achievement of this harmonized globe led to…

The Authority of Truth: Religion and the John Peter Zenger Case.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nord, David Paul

An appreciation of the religious milieu of the John Peter Zenger libel case of 1735 can help explain the nature of the Zenger defense as prepared by Alexander Hamilton, the meaning of the jury's verdict, and the ambiguous legacy of the trial for freedom of expression in the United States. In essence, the case was a disputation on "truth"…

Computers: from ethos and ethics to mythos and religion. Notes on the new frontier between computers and philosophy

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

Mitcham, C.

This essay surveys recent studies concerning the social, cultural, ethical and religious dimensions of computers. The argument is that computers have certain cultural influences which call for ethical analysis. Further suggestions are that American culture is itself reflected in new ways in the high-technology computer milieu, and that ethical issues entail religious ones which are being largely ignored. 28 references.

Space-Centred English Language Learning: The Cyprus Case

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kurt, Mustafa; Kurt, Sevinc

2013-01-01

This paper discusses a study conducted in the Ledra/Lokmaci Milieu in Cyprus, the area in the centre of the divided walled city of Nicosia where Greek and Turkish Cypriots have to use English to communicate with one another. The aim of the study was to locate the effects of a learning space on language learners, teachers and syllabus designers.…

Background Readings in American Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Office of Education (DHEW), Washington, DC. Bureau of Research.

This collection of readings was assembled and edited for use at the White House Conference on Education in Washington, D.C. on July 21st and 22nd, 1965. Some of the twenty-nine documents of historical value and relevance in today's educational milieu are: 1) Proposals Relating to the Education of Youth in Pennsylvania, Benjamin Franklin, 1749; 2)…

Education and Practice Barriers for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists.

PubMed

Malina, Debra P; Izlar, Janice J

2014-05-31

Of the recognized advanced practice registered nursing (APRN) specialties, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) have historically experienced the most vigorous and organized resistance from outside entities regarding rights to practice to the full scope of their education and experience. Opposition to nurse anesthetists practicing to the full scope of their education and training is present in the clinical arena and educational milieu.

Psychoanalysis and the early beginnings of residential treatment for troubled youth.

PubMed

Cohler, Bertram J; Friedman, Daniel H

2004-04-01

family scapegoat. Within these families, therapeutic efforts directed either at the troubled child or the whole family often fail to resolve conflict. Among these families, placement of a child in a therapeutic milieu provides refuge for children and permits parents to marshal their own resources in an effort to restore their own lives. Although many young persons with severe personality disorders meet the criteria formerly acceptable for residential care, such treatment facilities have proved particularly vulnerable to the effects of funding declines and increasing regulatory demands. Increasing visibility of pediatric pharmacology has lessened the impact of a child's disruptive behavior and may have facilitated decreased length of treatment. If, as Bettelheim maintained, psychological symptoms are a response to a world felt as overwhelming, early return to community in the absence of a young person's enhanced awareness of his or her own situation and impact on others may exacerbate return to care. As Rinsley observed, the pathologic family organization that led to the need for residential treatment is not likely to be significantly ameliorated by short-term, system-focused programs. Traditionally, the efforts of the long-term milieu settings have been aimed at restructuring complex and ingrained pathologic influences that have become embedded in family dynamics and have led to maladaptive behaviors in youngsters. The psychodynamic milieu approach emphasized the nuances of relation-ships and meanings ascertained from every interaction with other young people and with adults. This enhanced awareness of a child's impact on others through the marginal life-space interview, together with enhanced awareness of one's own wishes and thoughts as provided by the milieu and individual therapy, may offer the best means for helping a young person return successfully to the community. Although it is increasingly difficult to support young people in long-term milieu therapy, the

Barriers to exercise in younger and older non-exercising adult women: a cross sectional study in London, United Kingdom.

PubMed

El Ansari, Walid; Lovell, Geoff

2009-04-01

A survey of 100 women in the south of London, United Kingdom (UK) compared exercise barrier intensities between non-exercising younger (20-27 years) and older (28-35 years) adult women; and examined childcare duties as perceived barriers to exercise. Perceived barriers to exercise were examined using an Exercise Benefits/Barriers Scale (EBBS) comprising four subscales (exercise milieu; time expenditure; physical exertion; family discouragement). Participants' number of children was also noted. Non-exercising older women reported significantly higher total exercise barriers, as well as across three barrier subscales: exercise milieu, time expenditure, and family discouragement. For both age groups, significant correlation existed between number of children and women's total exercise barrier scores. Number of children explained approximately 25% and approximately 30% of the variance of younger and older women's total barrier scores respectively. For both women groups, the strongest correlation between exercise barrier and number of children was for the time expenditure subscale. Broad grouping of 20-35 year old non-exercising women does not reflect a homogenous sample. Age categories employing narrower age brackets are recommended. Issues surrounding family responsibilities e.g. childcare duties may be shared between these groups and require further research and policy attention.

Psychometric properties of the Chinese-version Quality of Nursing Work Life Scale.

PubMed

Lee, Ya-Wen; Dai, Yu-Tzu; McCreary, Linda L; Yao, Grace; Brooks, Beth A

2014-09-01

In this study, we developed and tested the psychometric properties of the Chinese-version Quality of Nursing Work Life Scale along seven subscales: supportive milieu with security and professional recognition, work arrangement and workload, work/home life balance, head nurse's/supervisor's management style, teamwork and communication, nursing staffing and patient care, and milieu of respect and autonomy. An instrument-development procedure with three phases was conducted in seven hospitals in 2010-2011. Phase I comprised translation and the cultural-adaptation process, phase II comprised a pilot study, and phase III comprised a field-testing process. Purposive sampling was used in the pilot study (n = 150) and the large field study (n = 1254). Five new items were added, and 85.7% of the original items were retained in the 41 item Chinese version. Principal component analysis revealed that a model accounted for 56.6% of the variance with acceptable internal consistency, concurrent validity, and discriminant validity. This study gave evidence of reliability and validity of the 41 item Chinese-version Quality of Nursing Work Life Scale. © 2014 Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

Disengagement versus engagement - a need for greater expectations.

PubMed

Bell, J Z

1978-02-01

An attempt is made to clarify some existing perspectives of successful aging. The environmental milieu of the aged is laden with potent and pervasive implications about successful adaptation. Considerable exploration is required to facilitate a realistic focus upon various theoretical contributions already presented. The influence of stresses and adaptive energy depletions preceding the senescent state is discussed in an effort to facilitate knowledgeable assimilation of the potential impact of the socioeconomic milieu upon the aged. It is the author's contention that the elderly person, upon retirement, presents an adaptive energy reserve highly personalized in its ability to accommodate to change, and especially dependent upon the nature, number and intensity of environmental stressors to adapt, successfully or unsuccessfully, to senescence. Various environmental stressors are identified (e.g., changes in social opportunities and expectations which create new needs and constrict the realm of emotional and vocational influence, thus reducing opportunities and diminishing self-esteem). Heavy emphasis is placed upon role theory, interaction ritual, and transactional analysis. These concepts are extended to the institutional setting - an environment which serves only to magnify mechanisms occurring throghout the social system while adding its own unique dimension to the stressors confronting the elderly.

The Absolutely Basic Concepts of being a nurse entrepreneur.

PubMed

Kaplan, S M

1991-01-01

As nurses become more comfortable with the notion of entrepreneurial practice in a setting that may take them outside of the traditional hospital or outpatient milieu, there are a number of considerations that need to be addressed. The purpose of this article is to review many of these points in a succinct and practical fashion for the nurse who may be considering such a move.

Targeting Discoidin Domain Receptors in Prostate Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-08-01

tumor incidence by bioluminescence. Thus, DDR1 may play a role in the initial seeding of tumor cells within the bone milieu. We are currently...conducting the quantitative analyses of bioluminescence and the histomorphometry analyses and evaluation of effects on bone remodeling. Studies on DDR1...regulation and function in culture cells is ongoing. 15. SUBJECT TERMS Prostate cancer, bone metastases, discoidin domain receptors, kinases

Beyond Business as Usual? Better Buying Power and the Prospects for Change in Defense Acquisition

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-04-30

leadership matters, and the change literature focused on leaders (e.g. Kotter , 1996) offers thoughtful prescriptions, leadership is but one factor in...change literature focused on leaders (e.g., Kotter , 1996) offers thoughtful prescriptions, leadership is but one factor in a larger organizational milieu...new approaches. As these steps suggest, Kotter is speaking mostly to leaders at the top. Rightly so, as in many enterprises—defense acquisition

The effects of light on man and other mammals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wurtman, R. J.

1975-01-01

The present article describes the best-studied extravisual effects of visible and ultraviolet light on humans and other mammals. It also considers the possible biological consequences to man of living in artificially lighted environments that differ significantly from the milieu in which he evolved. Cumulative evidence favors the beneficial influences of sunlight: vitamin D activation, plasma bilirubin elimination, inhibition of pineal melatonin synthesis, etc.

Bridging the language gap: Exploring science teachers' dual role as teachers of content and English literacy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arnold, Suzanne C.

Responsibility for educating English language learners is increasingly falling on the shoulders of content specialists at the secondary level, as students are mainstreamed into classes. Therefore, providing these students an opportunity to achieve academic success depends largely on the quality of mainstream instruction (Cornell, 1995). Most teachers receive little or no preparation in how to work with English language learners. In my study, I address the instructional issues confronting three white, monolingual English-speaking middle school science teachers who must meet the demands of an increasing English language learner population. Specifically, this study explores teacher beliefs and enactment of reform-oriented science and sheltered instructional approaches to develop English language learners scientific and English literacy skills. I also explore the relationships that exist between these two dynamics in an effort to determine the extent to which teachers take on a dual role as teachers promoting English language and science proficiency. Using a participant observation case study method and my adaptation of Schwab's commonplaces heuristic, I analyzed the relationship between teacher beliefs, milieu, subject matter, and enactment in bridging the language gap in the science classroom for English language learners. The most noteworthy finding of this study was the significant role of milieu in enacting lessons that bridge the language gap and foster the development of English language learners science and English literacy skills. The findings suggest that greater attention be given to helping teachers establish a relationship-driven classroom milieu. You can provide all kinds of courses or professional learning experiences to improve teachers' instructional practices, but they must also recognize the importance of establishing relationships with their students; the coursework they take will not supplant the need to foster a warm and safe environment for all

Glucogenic treatment creates an optimal metabolic milieu for the conception period in ewes.

PubMed

Porcu, C; Pasciu, V; Succu, S; Baralla, E; Manca, M E; Serra, E; Leoni, G G; Dattena, M; Bomboi, G C; Molle, G; Naitana, S; Berlinguer, F

2017-04-01

This study determined the influence of a short-term glucogenic nutritional treatment on circulating concentrations of glucose, insulin, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), and urea, and on their correspondent levels in follicular fluid (FF) collected 12 h after the end of the treatment. After estrous synchronization with intravaginal progestagen-impregnated sponges, 20 Sarda ewes were randomly allocated into two experimental groups (GLU and WAT) and, from day 7 to day 10 (day 0 = day of sponge removal), the GLU group was gavaged with a glycogenic mixture, whereas the WAT group was gavaged with water (control group). Follicular development was stimulated by FSH administration from day 8 to 10. At day 11, ovaries were collected and follicular fluid processed. Plasma changes were assessed from day 6 to 11. In GLU group, circulating concentration of glucose (P < 0.0001), insulin (P < 0.0001), and IGF-1 (P < 0.01) rose significantly, whereas NEFA and urea concentrations decreased (P < 0.0001), as compared with controls. In particular, in FF the higher glucose concentrations found in GLU ewes compared with controls (P < 0.0001) were not accompanied by any increase in insulin and IGF-1 concentrations. NEFA (P < 0.0001) and urea (P < 0.0001) were lower in FF of GLU than WAT group, although NEFA clearance in the ovary proved to be less efficient than at the systemic level. No significant difference between groups was found in FF concentrations of pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (a protease regulating the levels of free IGF-1 in follicles), glutathione, and in its total antioxidant capacity. These results suggest that glycogenic mixture administration creates a suitable follicular microenvironment for the conception period in dairy ewes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Chronic kidney disease, uremic milieu, and its effects on gut bacterial microbiota dysbiosis.

PubMed

Chaves, Lee D; McSkimming, Daniel I; Bryniarski, Mark A; Honan, Amanda M; Abyad, Sham; Thomas, Shruthi A; Wells, Steven; Buck, Michael J; Sun, Yijun; Genco, Robert J; Quigg, Richard J; Yacoub, Rabi

2018-04-25

Several lines of evidence suggest that gut bacterial microbiota is altered in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), though the mechanism of which this dysbiosis takes place is not well understood. Recent studies delineated changes in gut microbiota in both CKD patients and experimental animal models using microarray chips. We present 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing of both stool pellets and small bowel contents of C57Bl/6J mice that underwent a remnant kidney model, and establish that changes in microbiota take place in the early gastrointestinal track. Increased intestinal urea concertation has been hypothesized as a leading contributor for dysbiotic changes in CKD. We show that urea transporters UT-A and UT-B mRNA are both expressed throughout the whole gastrointestinal track. The noted increase in intestinal urea concentration appears to be independent of urea transporters' expression. Urea supplementation in drinking water resulted in alteration in bacterial gut microbiota that is quite different than that seen in CKD. This indicates that increased intestinal urea concentration might not fully explain the CKD associated dysbiosis.

Organisms in their milieu: Alfred Giard, his pupils, and early ethology, 1870-1930.

PubMed

De Bont, Raf

2010-03-01

This essay tells the story of early French ethology--"the science dealing with the habits of living beings and their relations, both with each other and with the cosmic environment." The driving force behind this "ethological movement" was the biologist Alfred Giard (1846-1908). The essay discusses how the ethological viewpoint of Giard and his pupils developed in a period in which the current disciplines of field biology were not yet crystallized. It also shows how concepts and research interests could travel within Giard's network from one working context to another, even from one discipline to another. By studying this traveling process, the essay reveals that, unlike the modern ethology of Konrad Lorenz and Niko Tinbergen, Giard's ethology was not a discipline at all but, rather, a scientific attitude. This scientific attitude triggered a reappraisal of fieldwork, but at the same time Giard's ethology was never limited to the field alone. It also found its way to the laboratory, the museum, and the zoo.

Effects of Polymer Hydrophobicity on Protein Structure and Aggregation Kinetics in Crowded Milieu.

PubMed

Breydo, Leonid; Sales, Amanda E; Frege, Telma; Howell, Mark C; Zaslavsky, Boris Y; Uversky, Vladimir N

2015-05-19

We examined the effects of water-soluble polymers of various degrees of hydrophobicity on the folding and aggregation of proteins. The polymers we chose were polyethylene glycol (PEG) and UCON (1:1 copolymer of ethylene glycol and propylene glycol). The presence of additional methyl groups in UCON makes it more hydrophobic than PEG. Our earlier analysis revealed that similarly sized PEG and UCON produced different changes in the solvent properties of water in their solutions and induced morphologically different α-synuclein aggregates [Ferreira, L. A., et al. (2015) Role of solvent properties of aqueous media in macromolecular crowding effects. J. Biomol. Struct. Dyn., in press]. To improve our understanding of molecular mechanisms defining behavior of proteins in a crowded environment, we tested the effects of these polymers on secondary and tertiary structure and aromatic residue solvent accessibility of 10 proteins [five folded proteins, two hybrid proteins; i.e., protein containing ordered and disordered domains, and three intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs)] and on the aggregation kinetics of insulin and α-synuclein. We found that effects of both polymers on secondary and tertiary structures of folded and hybrid proteins were rather limited with slight unfolding observed in some cases. Solvent accessibility of aromatic residues was significantly increased for the majority of the studied proteins in the presence of UCON but not PEG. PEG also accelerated the aggregation of protein into amyloid fibrils, whereas UCON promoted aggregation to amyloid oligomers instead. These results indicate that even a relatively small change in polymer structure leads to a significant change in the effect of this polymer on protein folding and aggregation. This is an indication that protein folding and especially aggregation are highly sensitive to the presence of other macromolecules, and an excluded volume effect is insufficient to describe their effect.

LIGHT-ing Up Prostate Cancer for Immunotherapy

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-10-01

Award Number: W81XWH-15-1-0491 TITLE: LIGHT -ing up prostate cancer for immunotherapy PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: W. Martin Kast, Ph.D...FORM TO THE ABOVE ADDRESS. 1. REPORT DATE October 2016 2. REPORT TYPE Annual 3. DATES COVERED 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE LIGHT -ing up prostate cancer...expression of LIGHT molecules within the tumor milieu counteracts cancer immune-evasion mechanisms and instigates activation and migration of T-cells

The Subgenus Stegomyia of Aedes in the Afrotropical Region. 1. The Africanus Group of Species (Diptera: Culicidae) (Contributions of the American Entomological Institute. Volume 26, Number 1, 1990)

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-01-01

BANGOURA and A. LORAND. 1979. Isolements d’arbovirus au Senegal oriental a partir de moustiques (1972-1977) et notes sur l’epidemiologie des virus...Dengue 2 au Senegal oriental: Une poussee epizootioque en milieu selvatique; isolements du virus a partir de moustiques et d’un singe et...neoafticanus une nouvelle espece de moustique capturee au Senegal Oriental (Diptera: Culicidae). Cah. O.R.S.T.O.M. Ser. Entomol. Med. Parasitol. 16

On the scene: American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.

PubMed

Mouro, Gladys; Tashjian, Hera; Daaboul, Tania; Kozman, Katia; Alwan, Farah; Shamoun, Anthony

2011-01-01

American University of Beirut Medical Center is the first Magnet hospital in the Middle East. In this article, authors reflect back on the journey to excellence, specifically in establishing shared governance in a challenging cultural and organizational milieu. Perspectives from nurses at different levels are included to highlight their experiences throughout the journey. Evolution of the organization's shared governance model is described and initiatives of the councils are illustrated.

Effects of the teach-model-coach-review instructional approach on caregiver use of language support strategies and children's expressive language skills.

PubMed

Roberts, Megan Y; Kaiser, Ann P; Wolfe, Cathy E; Bryant, Julie D; Spidalieri, Alexandria M

2014-10-01

In this study, the authors examined the effects of the Teach-Model-Coach-Review instructional approach on caregivers' use of four enhanced milieu teaching (EMT) language support strategies and on their children's use of expressive language. Four caregiver-child dyads participated in a single-subject, multiple-baseline study. Children were between 24 and 42 months of age and had language impairment. Interventionists used the Teach-Model-Coach-Review instructional approach to teach caregivers to use matched turns, expansions, time delays, and milieu teaching prompts during 24 individualized clinic sessions. Caregiver use of each EMT language support strategy and child use of communication targets were the dependent variables. The caregivers demonstrated increases in their use of each EMT language support strategy after instruction. Generalization and maintenance of strategy use to the home was limited, indicating that teaching across routines is necessary to achieve maximal outcomes. All children demonstrated gains in their use of communication targets and in their performance on norm-referenced measures of language. The results indicate that the Teach-Model-Coach-Review instructional approach resulted in increased use of EMT language support strategies by caregivers. Caregiver use of these strategies was associated with positive changes in child language skills.

Recovery from adolescent anorexia nervosa and associations with diurnal patterns of salivary stress hormones: a case report.

PubMed

Oskis, Andrea; Loveday, Catherine; Hucklebridge, Frank; Wood, David; Clow, Angela

2012-01-01

In the neurodevelopment of adolescent anorexia nervosa (AN), dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is proposed to be a central component. Furthermore, a therapeutic milieu focusing on affect regulation can contribute much to treatment, given the emotional processing difficulties associated with this disorder. Studies of HPA axis function following such specialist treatments for adolescent AN, however, are rare. This study describes the diurnal pattern of HPA axis activation, including the cortisol awakening response (CAR), in a 16-year-old female diagnosed with AN both during illness and at clinical recovery following milieu therapy with a focus on affect regulation. Specialised single-case study statistics were used to assess whether the patient's data were significantly different from the healthy "norm" at illness and recovery. During illness, her measure of affective problems was outside of the normal range and cortisol and DHEA secretory profiles were significantly elevated across the diurnal period. However, at recovery both her affective state and HPA axis function became comparable to healthy controls. This case study suggests that salivary markers of HPA axis function can be feasibly incorporated into the clinical regime within a specialist adolescent AN residential service and could be used by clinicians to monitor prognosis and interventions.

Barriers to Exercise in Younger and Older Non-Exercising Adult Women: A Cross Sectional Study in London, United Kingdom

PubMed Central

Ansari, Walid El; Lovell, Geoff

2009-01-01

A survey of 100 women in the south of London, United Kingdom (UK) compared exercise barrier intensities between non-exercising younger (20–27 years) and older (28–35 years) adult women; and examined childcare duties as perceived barriers to exercise. Perceived barriers to exercise were examined using an Exercise Benefits/Barriers Scale (EBBS) comprising four subscales (exercise milieu; time expenditure; physical exertion; family discouragement). Participants’ number of children was also noted. Non-exercising older women reported significantly higher total exercise barriers, as well as across three barrier subscales: exercise milieu, time expenditure, and family discouragement. For both age groups, significant correlation existed between number of children and women’s total exercise barrier scores. Number of children explained ≈25% and ≈30% of the variance of younger and older women’s total barrier scores respectively. For both women groups, the strongest correlation between exercise barrier and number of children was for the time expenditure subscale. Broad grouping of 20–35 year old non-exercising women does not reflect a homogenous sample. Age categories employing narrower age brackets are recommended. Issues surrounding family responsibilities e.g. childcare duties may be shared between these groups and require further research and policy attention. PMID:19440527

Culture and the Trajectories of Developmental Pathology: Insights from Control and Information Theories.

PubMed

Wallace, Rodrick

2018-06-01

Cognition in living entities-and their social groupings or institutional artifacts-is necessarily as complicated as their embedding environments, which, for humans, includes a particularly rich cultural milieu. The asymptotic limit theorems of information and control theories permit construction of a new class of empirical 'regression-like' statistical models for cognitive developmental processes, their dynamics, and modes of dysfunction. Such models may, as have their simpler analogs, prove useful in the study and re-mediation of cognitive failure at and across the scales and levels of organization that constitute and drive the phenomena of life. These new models particularly focus on the roles of sociocultural environment and stress, in a large sense, as both trigger for the failure of the regulation of bio-cognition and as 'riverbanks' determining the channels of pathology, with implications across life-course developmental trajectories. We examine the effects of an embedding cultural milieu and its socioeconomic implementations using the 'lenses' of metabolic optimization, control system theory, and an extension of symmetry-breaking appropriate to information systems. A central implication is that most, if not all, human developmental disorders are fundamentally culture-bound syndromes. This has deep implications for both individual treatment and public health policy.

Hypersaline sapropels act as hotspots for microbial dark matter

DOE PAGES

Andrei, Adrian -Stefan; Baricz, Andreea; Robeson, Michael Scott; ...

2017-07-21

Present-day terrestrial analogue sites are crucial ground truth proxies for studying life in geochemical conditions close to those assumed to be present on early Earth or inferred to exist on other celestial bodies (e.g. Mars, Europa). Although hypersaline sapropels are border-of-life habitats with moderate occurrence, their microbiological and physicochemical characterization lags behind. Here, we study the diversity of life under low water activity by describing the prokaryotic communities from two disparate hypersaline sapropels (Transylvanian Basin, Romania) in relation to geochemical milieu and pore water chemistry, while inferring their role in carbon cycling by matching taxa to known taxon-specific biogeochemical functions.more » Furthermore, the polyphasic approach combined deep coverage SSU rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and bioinformatics with RT-qPCR and physicochemical investigations. We found that sapropels developed an analogous elemental milieu and harbored prokaryotes affiliated with fifty-nine phyla, among which the most abundant were Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Chloroflexi. Containing thirty-two candidate divisions and possibly undocumented prokaryotic lineages, the hypersaline sapropels were found to accommodate one of the most diverse and novel ecosystems reported to date and may contribute to completing the phylogenetic branching of the tree of life.« less

Why goldfish? Merits and challenges in employing goldfish as a model organism in comparative endocrinology research.

PubMed

Blanco, Ayelén Melisa; Sundarrajan, Lakshminarasimhan; Bertucci, Juan Ignacio; Unniappan, Suraj

2018-02-01

Goldfish has been used as an unconventional model organism to study a number of biological processes. For example, goldfish is a well-characterized and widely used model in comparative endocrinology, especially in neuroendocrinology. Several decades of research has established and validated an array of tools to study hormones in goldfish. The detailed brain atlas of goldfish, together with the stereotaxic apparatus, are invaluable tools for the neuroanatomic localization and central administration of endocrine factors. In vitro techniques, such as organ and primary cell cultures, have been developed using goldfish. In vivo approaches using goldfish were used to measure endogenous hormonal milieu, feeding, behaviour and stress. While there are many benefits in using goldfish as a model organism in research, there are also challenges associated with it. One example is its tetraploid genome that results in the existence of multiple isoforms of endocrine factors. The presence of extra endogenous forms of peptides and its receptors adds further complexity to the already redundant multifactorial endocrine milieu. This review will attempt to discuss the importance of goldfish as a model organism in comparative endocrinology. It will highlight some of the merits and challenges in employing goldfish as an animal model for hormone research in the post-genomic era. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Immunobiology of HPV and HPV vaccines.

PubMed

Stanley, Margaret

2008-05-01

Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) infection with both low- and high-risk types is common, but most infections resolve as a result of a cell-mediated immune response. Failure to induce an effective immune response is related to inefficient activation of innate immunity and ineffective priming of the adaptive immune response; this defective immune response facilitates viral persistence, a key feature of high-risk HPV infection. This milieu becomes operationally HPV antigen tolerant, and the host's defenses become irrevocably compromised. HPV antigen-specific effector cells are poorly recruited to the infected focus and their activity is downregulated; neoplastic HPV containing cervical keratinocytes expressing high levels of E6 and E7 oncoproteins are not killed in this immunosuppressive, tolerant milieu, and progression to high-grade disease and cancer can result. Highly efficacious prophylactic HPV L1 virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines circumvent viral epithelial evasion strategies since they are delivered by intramuscular injection. The stromal dendritic cells of the muscle that encounter the highly immunogenic repeat structure of the VLP then migrate with their cargo to the lymph node, initiating an immune cascade that results in a robust T-cell dependent B-cell response, which generates high levels of L1-specific serum neutralizing antibodies and immune memory.

Hypersaline sapropels act as hotspots for microbial dark matter

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

Andrei, Adrian -Stefan; Baricz, Andreea; Robeson, Michael Scott

Present-day terrestrial analogue sites are crucial ground truth proxies for studying life in geochemical conditions close to those assumed to be present on early Earth or inferred to exist on other celestial bodies (e.g. Mars, Europa). Although hypersaline sapropels are border-of-life habitats with moderate occurrence, their microbiological and physicochemical characterization lags behind. Here, we study the diversity of life under low water activity by describing the prokaryotic communities from two disparate hypersaline sapropels (Transylvanian Basin, Romania) in relation to geochemical milieu and pore water chemistry, while inferring their role in carbon cycling by matching taxa to known taxon-specific biogeochemical functions.more » Furthermore, the polyphasic approach combined deep coverage SSU rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and bioinformatics with RT-qPCR and physicochemical investigations. We found that sapropels developed an analogous elemental milieu and harbored prokaryotes affiliated with fifty-nine phyla, among which the most abundant were Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Chloroflexi. Containing thirty-two candidate divisions and possibly undocumented prokaryotic lineages, the hypersaline sapropels were found to accommodate one of the most diverse and novel ecosystems reported to date and may contribute to completing the phylogenetic branching of the tree of life.« less

Dermal Wound Transcriptomic Responses to Infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa versus Klebsiella pneumoniae in a Rabbit Ear Wound Model

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-05-02

harvested on POD4 for microarray and transcriptome analysis. Other wounds received topical antibiotic after infection for 24 hours to promote biofilm ...cell toxicity in response to a more damaging P.a. inflammatory milieu. The POD6 wounds were colonized with biofilm but expressed magnitudes fewer...infection for 24 hours to promote biofilm development, and were harvested on POD6 or POD12. Results: Wounds infected for 24 hours, relative to uninfected

Swapnaushadhi: the embedded logic of dreams and medical innovation in Bengal.

PubMed

Mukharji, Projit Bihari

2014-09-01

Numerous medicines in South Asia have their origins in dreams. Deities, saints and other supernatural beings frequently appear in dreams to instruct dreamers about specific remedies, therapeutic techniques, modes of care etc. These therapies challenge available models of historicising dreams. Once we overcome these challenges and unearth the embedded logic of these dreams, we begin to discern in them a dynamic institution that enabled and sustained therapeutic change within a 'traditional' medical milieu.

Prevalence of Helicobacter Pylori in Gastric Fluid in the Surgical Patient

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-01-01

of five percent. This percentage closely matches the oxygen level found in the stomach’s mucous layer . It has an electropositive internal milieu which...amounts of urease which cleaves urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide. The presence of urease is one of the biochemical markers used to help identify...in acidic gastric juice where small amounts of urea are present. Helicobacter pylorl produces urease which breaks down the urea and produces ammonia

The Impact of an Intelligent Computer-Based Tutor on Classroom Social Processes: An Ethnographic Study.

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-02-11

of computer games such as Where in the World is Carmen Santiago ?, provided a milieu in which these boys could fantasize about their prowess and...Organization for Economic Pacific Bell Cooperation and Development 2600 Camino Ramon 2, rue Andru-Pascal Room 3S-450 75016 PARIS San Ramon, CA 94583 FRANCE...Psychology University of Delaware Dr. Arthur Melmed Newark, DE 19711 Computer Arts and Education Laboratory Ms. Julia S. Hough New York University 110 W

BRMS1 Suppresses Breast Cancer Metastasis to Bone via Its Regulation of microRNA-125b and Downstream Attenuation of TNF-Alpha and HER2 Signaling Pathways

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-04-01

cytoskeleton genes and genes regulating focal adhesion assembly, such as a5 integrin, Tenascin C, Talin-1, Profilin 1, and Actinin [35]. Intravital ...and allowed to adhere for time indicated, at which point cells were fixed and stainedwith crystal violet. Representative images for times 5, 10, 15...matrix milieu and imaged by time-lapse microscopy for 1 h or fixed and stained with crystal violet at times indicated. As shown in Figure 1C and

Music-supported therapy for stroke motor recovery: theoretical and practical considerations.

PubMed

Chen, Joyce L

2018-05-08

Music may confer benefits for well-being and health. What is the state of knowledge and evidence for a role of music in supporting the rehabilitation of movements after stroke? In this brief perspective, I provide background context and information about stroke recovery in general, in order to spark reflection and discussion for how we think music may impact motor recovery, given the current clinical milieu. © 2018 New York Academy of Sciences.

The Effectiveness of Soviet Arms Aid: Diplomacy in the Third World.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-06-20

leaders of many Third World countries, motivated by their own political and economic aspirations, were warmly receptive to the post-Stalin changes in...present itself as an additional source of political , economic, and military support to find a number of willing recipients. In this milieu, foreign...partly premised on Moscow’s assessment of a recipient’s ability to pay, political favoritism also may be discerned in the variations evident in Soviet

The Impact of the Vietnam Analogy on American Policy in El Salvador from 1979 to 1984

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-06-03

alternately in both obvious and obscure manners. Ample evidence exists to 9 establish the hypothesis for the analogy. From the essential hypothesis that...very different Carter and Reagan administrations. It is essential to place the reader in the milieu of the period so that a clearer understanding of the...of what really happened. For particular relevance to this research, it is essential to stick to works which contain specific references to the Vietnam

[Organizational culture and professional development in nursing].

PubMed

Ruiz Moreno, J

1999-02-01

There is a lot of talk about the importance of persons in organization and leadership, nothing that the keys to lead the organizational milieu in a positive and beneficial manner have been established for several decades. These keys are related to the values of nursing as a profession and to how these may constitute intangible assets. Nonetheless, identifying such values and intangible assets is not the exclusive responsibility of business managers in the nursing field.

Medical Examination and Poor Relief in Early Modern Germany

PubMed Central

Hammond, Mitchell Lewis

2011-01-01

Summary This article investigates the role of the medical examination in municipal poor relief programmes between 1570 and 1620. Documents from the city of Nördlingen, a community of approximately 10,000 people in 1600, suggest that municipal facilities addressed a range of serious illnesses for a wide spectrum of the population. Practitioners were influenced by their Galenic medical milieu but ultimately focused on a range of practical resource questions rather than the diagnosis of an individual's disease.

Sonophoresis for Rapid Assessment of Interstitial Fluid and Drug Delivery

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-10-01

sensitive indicator of local diseases, for example skin cancer, psoriasis and eczema , but also of certain systemic diseases such as cardiovascular disease...cytokine " functionality -map" that precisely represents skin’s specific diseased milieu (Fig. 2b-CI and Fig. 3a-AD and PS, 3 additional data in. Supp...yielded a unique cytokine " functionality map", which correlates with the specific diseased state (figure 2d and 3a). A striking, rapid upregulation was

Letter to Freud: on the plight of psychoanalysis.

PubMed

Mendes, Dinah M

2011-12-01

In the form of a letter, the writer communicates to Freud her appreciation for the incomparable richness and complexity of the psychoanalytic enterprise in its century-long evolution from classical, Freudian origins to new developments in theory and technique. At the same time, concern is expressed about the continuity and survival of psychoanalysis in a cultural milieu that has absorbed its once radical ideas about sexuality and unconscious motivation while resisting its viability as a method of treatment.

Development and Survival: A Study of Children at Risk Living in Adverse Psychosocial Milieu.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wahlsten, Viveka Sundelin

1994-01-01

This 4-year longitudinal study followed 12 infants or young children (6 boys and 6 girls) in 7 high-risk Swedish families (including drug abuse, chaotic family structure, antisocial behavior, and child care problems). Three girls developed mainly constructive (moderating) strategies; the other children demonstrated more or less destructive,…

Steroid Exposure, Acute Coronary Syndrome, and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Insights into the Inflammatory Milieu

PubMed Central

Deaño, Roderick C.; Basnet, Sandeep; Onandia, Zurine Galvan; Gandhi, Sachin; Tawakol, Ahmed; Min, James K.; Truong, Quynh A.

2014-01-01

Background Steroids are anti-inflammatory agents commonly used to treat inflammatory bowel disease. Inflammation plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of both inflammatory bowel disease and acute coronary syndrome. We examined the relationship between steroid use in patients with inflammatory bowel disease and acute coronary syndrome. Methods In 177 patients with inflammatory bowel disease (mean age 67, 75% male, 44% Crohn's disease, 56% ulcerative colitis), we performed a 1:2 case-control study matched for age, sex and inflammatory bowel disease type and compared 59 patients with inflammatory bowel disease with acute coronary syndrome to 118 patients with inflammatory bowel disease without acute coronary syndrome. Steroid use was defined as current or prior exposure. Acute coronary syndrome was defined as myocardial infarction or unstable angina, confirmed by cardiac biomarkers and coronary angiography. Results In patients with inflammatory bowel disease, 34% with acute coronary syndrome had exposure to steroids versus 58% without acute coronary syndrome (p<0.01). Steroid exposure reduced the adjusted odds of acute coronary syndrome by 82% (odds ratio [OR] 0.39, 95% CI 0.20-0.74; adjusted OR 0.18, 95% CI 0.06-0.51) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, 77% in Crohn's disease (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.14-0.92; adjusted OR 0.23, 95% CI 0.06-0.98), and 78% in ulcerative colitis (OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.16-1.04; adjusted OR 0.22, 95% CI 0.06-0.90). There was no association between other inflammatory bowel disease medications and acute coronary syndrome. Conclusions In patients with inflammatory bowel disease, steroid use significantly reduces the odds of acute coronary syndrome. These findings provide further mechanistic insight into the inflammatory processes involved in inflammatory bowel disease and acute coronary syndrome. PMID:25446295

Proinflammatory milieu in combat-related PTSD is independent of depression and early life stress.

PubMed

Lindqvist, Daniel; Wolkowitz, Owen M; Mellon, Synthia; Yehuda, Rachel; Flory, Janine D; Henn-Haase, Clare; Bierer, Linda M; Abu-Amara, Duna; Coy, Michelle; Neylan, Thomas C; Makotkine, Iouri; Reus, Victor I; Yan, Xiaodan; Taylor, Nicole M; Marmar, Charles R; Dhabhar, Firdaus S

2014-11-01

Chronic inflammation may be involved in combat-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and may help explain comorbid physical diseases. However, the extent to which combat exposure per se, depression, or early life trauma, all of which are associated with combat PTSD, may confound the relationship between PTSD and inflammation is unclear. We quantified interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interferon (IFN)-γ, and C-reactive protein (CRP) in 51 combat-exposed males with PTSD and 51 combat-exposed males without PTSD, and assessed PTSD and depression severity as well as history of early life trauma. To decrease the possibility of Type I errors, we summed standardized scores of IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα, IFNγ and CRP into a total "pro-inflammatory score". PTSD symptom severity was assessed with the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS) rating scale. Subjects with PTSD had significantly higher pro-inflammatory scores compared to combat-exposed subjects without PTSD (p=0.006), and even after controlling for early life trauma, depression diagnosis and severity, body mass index, ethnicity, education, asthma/allergies, time since combat and the use of possibly confounding medications (p=0.002). Within the PTSD group, the pro-inflammatory score was not significantly correlated with depressive symptom severity, CAPS total score, or with the number of early life traumas. Combat-related PTSD in males is associated with higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, even after accounting for depression and early life trauma. These results, from one of the largest studies of inflammatory cytokines in PTSD to date, suggest that immune activation may be a core element of PTSD pathophysiology more so than a signature of combat exposure alone. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Increasing Social Interaction Using Prelinguistic Milieu Teaching with Nonverbal School-Age Children with Autism

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Franco, Jessica H.; Davis, Barbara L.; Davis, John L.

2013-01-01

Purpose: Children with autism display marked deficits in initiating and maintaining social interaction. Intervention using play routines can create a framework for developing and maintaining social interaction between these children and their communication partners. Method: Six nonverbal 5- to 8-year-olds with autism were taught to engage in…

Versatile Redox Chemistry Complicates Antioxidant Capacity Assessment: Flavonoids as Milieu-Dependent Antiand Pro-Oxidants

PubMed Central

Chobot, Vladimir; Kubicova, Lenka; Bachmann, Gert; Hadacek, Franz

2013-01-01

Some antioxidants have been shown to possess additional pro-oxidant effects. Diverse methodologies exist for studying redox properties of synthetic and natural chemicals. The latter are substantial components of our diet. Exploration of their contribution to life-extending or -compromising effects is mandatory. Among reactive oxygen species (ROS), hydroxyl radical (•OH) is the most damaging species. Due to its short half-life, the assay has to contain a specific generation system. Plants synthesize flavonoids, phenolic compounds recognized as counter-agents to coronary heart disease. Their antioxidant activities are affected by their hydroxylation patterns. Moreover, in the plant, they mainly occur as glycosides. We chose three derivatives, quercetin, luteolin, and rutin, in attempts to explore their redox chemistry in contrasting hydrogen peroxide environments. Initial addition of hydrogen peroxide in high concentration or gradual development constituted a main factor affecting their redox chemical properties, especially in case of quercetin. Our study exemplifies that a combination of a chemical assay (deoxyribose degradation) with an electrochemical method (square-wave voltammetry) provides insightful data. The ambiguity of the tested flavonoids to act either as anti- or pro-oxidant may complicate categorization, but probably contributed to their evolution as components of a successful metabolic system that benefits both producer and consumer. PMID:23736691

Etiologie Rare de Sinusites Nosocomiales en Milieu de Reanimation - A Propos d'une Observation

PubMed Central

Messadi, A.A.; Oueslati, S.; Thabet, L.; Bousselmi, K.; Menif, E.

2006-01-01

Summary Les sinusites nosocomiales ne sont pas rares en réanimation. Elles surviennent en général dans les suites d'une intubation nasotrachéale voire même orotrachéale. Le tubage gastrique peut être à lui seul à l'origine d'une sinusite nosocomiale. Nous rapportons le cas d'une patiente hospitalisée qui a été victime de brûlures étendues chez qui la sonde nasogastrique a été à l'origine d'une pansinusite dont l'issue a été fatale. PMID:21991055

Age-associated changes in cardiovascular structure and function: a fertile milieu for future disease

PubMed Central

Strait, James

2015-01-01

Important changes occur in the cardiovascular system with advancing age, even in apparently healthy individuals. Thickening and stiffening of the large arteries develop due to collagen and calcium deposition and loss of elastic fibers in the medial layer. These arterial changes cause systolic blood pressure to rise with age, while diastolic blood pressure generally declines after the sixth decade. In the left ventricle, modest concentric wall thickening occurs due to cellular hypertrophy, but cavity size does not change. Although left ventricular systolic function is preserved across the age span, early diastolic filling rate declines 30–50% between the third and ninth decades. Conversely, an age-associated increase in late diastolic filling due to atrial contraction preserves end-diastolic volume. Aerobic exercise capacity declines approximately 10% per decade in cross-sectional studies; in longitudinal studies, however, this decline is accelerated in the elderly. Reductions in peak heart rate and peripheral oxygen utilization but not stroke volume appear to mediate the age-associated decline in aerobic capacity. Deficits in both cardiac b-adrenergic receptor density and in the efficiency of postsynaptic b-adrenergic signaling contribute significantly to the reduced cardiovascular performance during exercise in older adults. Although these cardiovascular aging changes are considered “normative”, they lower the threshold for the development of cardiovascular disease, which affects the majority of older adults. PMID:21809160

The impact of obesity on pentraxin 3 and inflammatory milieu to acute aerobic exercise.

PubMed

Slusher, Aaron L; Mock, J Thomas; Whitehurst, Michael; Maharaj, Arun; Huang, Chun-Jung

2015-02-01

Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) has recently been linked to obesity-associated inflammation, serving as a cardioprotective modulator against cardiovascular disease (CVD). Aerobic exercise has been shown to enhance plasma PTX3 levels; however, the impact of obesity on PTX3 response to exercise remains unknown. Therefore, this study sought to examine whether obese subjects would have an attenuated plasma PTX3 response compared to normal-weight subjects following acute aerobic exercise. The relationship of plasma PTX3 with pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) was also examined. Twenty healthy subjects (10 obese [4 males and 6 females] and 10 normal-weight [4 males, 6 females]) performed 30min of continuous submaximal aerobic exercise. At baseline, obese subjects exhibited approximately 40% lower plasma PTX3 and a 7-fold greater IL-6 concentration compared to normal-weight subjects. In response to exercise, no difference was observed in PTX3 or IL-6 as indicated by area-under-the-curve "with respect to increase" (AUCi) analyses. Furthermore, PTX3 AUCi was positively correlated with cardiorespiratory fitness levels (VO(2max)) (r=0.594, p=0.006), even after controlling for body mass index. These findings suggest that in addition to obesity-associated complications, low cardiorespiratory fitness levels could impact exercise-induced PTX3 elevations, thereby potentially diminishing PTX3's effects of anti-inflammation and/or cardioprotection. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Premature and delayed ejaculation: two ends of a single continuum influenced by hormonal milieu.

PubMed

Corona, G; Jannini, E A; Lotti, F; Boddi, V; De Vita, G; Forti, G; Lenzi, A; Mannucci, E; Maggi, M

2011-02-01

Although it is well established that all the aspects of male reproduction are hormonally regulated, the endocrine control of the ejaculatory reflex is still not completely clarified. Sex steroids, thyroid and pituitary hormones (oxytocin and prolactin) have been proposed to control the ejaculatory process at various levels; however, only a few reports are currently available. The aim of this study was to evaluate the contribution of testosterone, thyrotropin (TSH) and prolactin (PRL) in the pathogenesis of ejaculatory dysfunction in a large series of subjects consulting for sexual dysfunction. Among the 2652 patients studied, 674 (25.2%) and 194 (7.3%) reported premature and delayed ejaculation (PE and DE), respectively. Categorizing ejaculatory difficulties on an eight-point scale starting from severe PE and ending with anejaculation (0 = severe PE, 1 = moderate PE, 2 = mild PE, 3 = no difficulties, 4 = mild DE, 5 = moderate DE, 6 = severe DE and 7 = anejaculation), PRL as well as TSH levels progressively increased from patients with severe PE towards those with anejaculation. Conversely, the opposite was observed for testosterone levels. All of these associations were confirmed after adjustment for age (adjusted r = 0.050, 0.053 and -0.038 for PRL, TSH and testosterone, respectively; all p < 0.05). When all hormonal parameters were introduced in the same regression model, adjusting for age, ΣMHQ (an index of general psychopathology) and use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants, they were independently associated with ejaculatory problems (adjusted r = 0.056, 0.047 and -0.059 for PRL, TSH and testosterone, respectively; all p < 0.05). This study indicates endocrine system is involved in the control of ejaculatory function and that PRL, TSH and testosterone play an independent role. © 2010 The Authors. International Journal of Andrology © 2010 European Academy of Andrology.

The Spread of Dengue in an Endemic Urban Milieu--The Case of Delhi, India.

PubMed

Telle, Olivier; Vaguet, Alain; Yadav, N K; Lefebvre, B; Cebeillac, A; Nagpal, B N; Daudé, Eric; Paul, Richard E

2016-01-01

Dengue is a major international public health concern, one of the most important arthropod-borne diseases. More than 3.5 billion people are at risk of dengue infection and there are an estimated 390 million dengue infections annually. This prolific increase has been connected to societal changes such as population growth and increasing urbanization generating intense agglomeration leading to proliferation of synanthropic mosquito species. Quantifying the spatio-temporal epidemiology of dengue in large cities within the context of a Geographic Information System is a first step in the identification of socio-economic risk factors. This Project has been approved by the ethical committee of Institut Pasteur. Data has been anonymized and de-identified prior to geolocalisation and analysis. A GIS was developed for Delhi, enabling typological characterization of the urban environment. Dengue cases identified in the Delhi surveillance system from 2008 to 2010 were collated, localised and embedded within this GIS. The spatio-temporal distribution of dengue cases and extent of clustering were analyzed. Increasing distance from the forest in Delhi reduced the risk of occurrence of a dengue case. Proximity to a hospital did not increase risk of a notified dengue case. Overall, there was high heterogeneity in incidence rate within areas with the same socio-economical profiles and substantial inter-annual variability. Dengue affected the poorest areas with high density of humans, but rich areas were also found to be infected, potentially because of their central location with respect to the daily mobility network of Delhi. Dengue cases were highly clustered in space and there was a strong relationship between the time of introduction of the virus and subsequent cluster size. At a larger scale, earlier introduction predicted the total number of cases. DENV epidemiology within Delhi has a forest fire signature. The stochastic nature of this invasion process likely smothers any detectable socio-economic risk factors. However, the significant finding that the size of the dengue case cluster depends on the timing of its emergence emphasizes the need for early case detection and implementation of effective mosquito control. A better understanding of the role of population mobility in contributing to dengue risk could also help focus control on areas at particular risk of dengue virus importation.

Glycolysis regulates the expansion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells in tumor-bearing hosts through prevention of ROS-mediated apoptosis

PubMed Central

Jian, Shiou-Ling; Chen, Wei-Wei; Su, Yu-Chia; Su, Yu-Wen; Chuang, Tsung-Hsien; Hsu, Shu-Ching; Huang, Li-Rung

2017-01-01

Immunotherapy aiming to rescue or boost antitumor immunity is an emerging strategy for treatment of cancers. The efficacy of immunotherapy is strongly controlled by the immunological milieu of cancer patients. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are heterogeneous immature myeloid cell populations with immunosuppressive functions accumulating in individuals during tumor progression. The signaling mechanisms of MDSC activation have been well studied. However, there is little known about the metabolic status of MDSCs and the physiological role of their metabolic reprogramming. In this study, we discovered that myeloid cells upregulated their glycolytic genes when encountered with tumor-derived factors. MDSCs exhibited higher glycolytic rate than their normal cell compartment did, which contributed to the accumulation of the MDSCs in tumor-bearing hosts. Upregulation of glycolysis prevented excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by MDSCs, which protected MDSCs from apoptosis. Most importantly, we identified the glycolytic metabolite, phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP), as a vital antioxidant agent able to prevent excess ROS production and therefore contributed to the survival of MDSCs. These findings suggest that glycolytic metabolites have important roles in the modulation of fitness of MDSCs and could be potential targets for anti-MDSC strategy. Targeting MDSCs with analogs of specific glycolytic metabolites, for example, 2-phosphoglycerate or PEP may diminish the accumulation of MDSCs and reverse the immunosuppressive milieu in tumor-bearing individuals. PMID:28492541

The Microenvironment of Lung Cancer and Therapeutic Implications.

PubMed

Mittal, Vivek; El Rayes, Tina; Narula, Navneet; McGraw, Timothy E; Altorki, Nasser K; Barcellos-Hoff, Mary Helen

2016-01-01

The tumor microenvironment (TME) represents a milieu that enables tumor cells to acquire the hallmarks of cancer. The TME is heterogeneous in composition and consists of cellular components, growth factors, proteases, and extracellular matrix. Concerted interactions between genetically altered tumor cells and genetically stable intratumoral stromal cells result in an "activated/reprogramed" stroma that promotes carcinogenesis by contributing to inflammation, immune suppression, therapeutic resistance, and generating premetastatic niches that support the initiation and establishment of distant metastasis. The lungs present a unique milieu in which tumors progress in collusion with the TME, as evidenced by regions of aberrant angiogenesis, acidosis and hypoxia. Inflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of lung cancer, and pulmonary disorders in lung cancer patients such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and emphysema, constitute comorbid conditions and are independent risk factors for lung cancer. The TME also contributes to immune suppression, induces epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and diminishes efficacy of chemotherapies. Thus, the TME has begun to emerge as the "Achilles heel" of the disease, and constitutes an attractive target for anti-cancer therapy. Drugs targeting the components of the TME are making their way into clinical trials. Here, we will focus on recent advances and emerging concepts regarding the intriguing role of the TME in lung cancer progression, and discuss future directions in the context of novel diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities.

Mental health in mass gatherings

PubMed Central

Khan, Shahbaz Ali; Chauhan, V. S.; Timothy, A.; Kalpana, S.; Khanam, Shagufta

2016-01-01

Background: Hajj pilgrimage, in Saudi Arabia, is one of the world's largest religious mass gatherings. We have similar mass gathering scenarios in India such as the Amarnath Yatra and Kumbh. A unique combination of physical, physiological, and psychological factors makes this pilgrimage a very stressful milieu. We studied the emergence of psychopathology and its determinants, in this adverse environment in mass gathering situation, in Indian pilgrims on Hajj 2016. Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive study analyzing the mental morbidity in 1.36 lakh Indian pilgrims during Hajj 2016, using SPSS software version 19. Results: Totally 182 patients reported psychological problems. Twenty-two patients (12%) required admission. Twelve (6.8%) pilgrims reported a past history of a mental illness. One hundred and sixty-five (93.2%) patients never had any mental symptoms earlier in life. The most common illnesses seen were stress related (45.7%) followed by psychosis (9.8%), insomnia (7.3%), and mood disorders (5.6%). The most common symptoms recorded were apprehension (45%), sleep (55%), anxiety (41%), and fear of being lost (27%). Psychotropics were prescribed for 46% of pilgrims. All patients completed their Hajj successfully and returned to India. Conclusions: Cumulative stress causes full spectrum of mental decompensation, and prompt healing is aided by simple nonpharmacological measures including social support and counseling in compatible sociolinguistic milieu. PMID:28659703

Developmental Programming of Hypertension and Kidney Disease

PubMed Central

Chong, Euming; Yosypiv, Ihor V.

2012-01-01

A growing body of evidence supports the concept that changes in the intrauterine milieu during “sensitive” periods of embryonic development or in infant diet after birth affect the developing individual, resulting in general health alterations later in life. This phenomenon is referred to as “developmental programming” or “developmental origins of health and disease.” The risk of developing late-onset diseases such as hypertension, chronic kidney disease (CKD), obesity or type 2 diabetes is increased in infants born prematurely at <37 weeks of gestation or in low birth weight (LBW) infants weighing <2,500 g at birth. Both genetic and environmental events contribute to the programming of subsequent risks of CKD and hypertension in premature or LBW individuals. A number of observations suggest that susceptibility to subsequent CKD and hypertension in premature or LBW infants is mediated, at least in part, by reduced nephron endowment. The major factors influencing in utero environment that are associated with a low final nephron number include uteroplacental insufficiency, maternal low-protein diet, hyperglycemia, vitamin A deficiency, exposure to or interruption of endogenous glucocorticoids, and ethanol exposure. This paper discusses the effect of premature birth, LBW, intrauterine milieu, and infant feeding on the development of hypertension and renal disease in later life as well as examines the role of the kidney in developmental programming of hypertension and CKD. PMID:23251800

And then the internet happened: Thoughts on the future of concept mapping.

PubMed

McLinden, Daniel

2017-02-01

Over 25 years ago, in the late twentieth century, concept mapping emerged as a mixed method approach to inquiry that enables a group of people to conceptualize their thinking about a specific topic. Since then, the application of concept mapping has spread widely and an easy prediction for the future is that this trend is likely to continue; a more important and greater challenge is to think about the ways in which concept mapping may and should evolve. Discussed here are thoughts about the future of concept mapping including some predictions of likely directions and suggestions for new possibilities. Thoughts on the future are grounded in concept mapping applications that have emerged and gained ground in recent years; these include exploring wicked problems in communities and integrating concept mapping with other methods of inquiry. Thoughts on the future are also grounded in the social and cultural milieu in which we find ourselves at this time. The influence of social media and internet technologies has led to the emergence peer production and crowdsourcing as approaches to co-create information, knowledge, products and services. These tactics may create fertile ground for the further spread of concept mapping. This same collaborative milieu has produced the open software movement which in turn, offers opportunities to enhancing the methodology of concept mapping. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

L'analyse par activation de neutrons de réacteur

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meyer, G.

2003-02-01

Quand les neutrons traversent la matière, certains sont transmis sans interaction, les autres interagissent avec le milieu traversé par diffusion et par absorption. Ce phénomène d'absorption est utilisé pour se protéger des neutrons, mais aussi pour les détecter; il peut également être utilisé pour identifier les noyaux “absorbants" et ainsi analyser le milieu traversé. En effet par différentes réactions nucléaires (n,γ), (n,p), (n,α), (n,fission), on obtient des noyaux résiduels qui sont souvent radioactifs; on dit que l'échantillon est “activé". Si l'on connaît le rendement d'activation et donc le pourcentage de noyaux ainsi “transmutés", les mesures de radioactivité induite vont permettre de déterminer la composition de l'échantillon irradié. Cette méthode dite d'analyse par activation neutronique est pratiquée depuis la découverte du neutron. Elle a permis grâce à sa sélectivité et à sa sensibilité d'avoir accès au domaine des traces et des ultra-traces dans des champs d'application très divers comme la métallurgie, l'archéologie, la biologie, la géochimie etc...

Teaching style beliefs among U.S. and Israeli faculty.

PubMed

Behar-Horenstein, Linda S; Mitchell, Gail S; Notzer, Netta; Penfield, Randy; Eli, Ilana

2006-08-01

The purpose of this study was to determine if self-reported teaching style beliefs were different among faculty at a U.S. and an Israeli dental school. Teacher-centered practices refer to beliefs that the teacher holds the subject matter expertise and students are generally passive learners who must be told what to think. Student-centered practices refer to beliefs that students must learn how to construct their own understanding. Student-centered teaching is directed towards enabling students to think about complex issues. Twenty-seven of fifty-eight (47.37 percent) faculty at a dental school in the United States and thirty of thirty-four (88 percent) Israeli dental faculty teaching in basic science courses completed the Teaching Behavior Preferences Survey (TBPS). The TBPS is a thirty-item instrument that measures two domains of teaching styles--teacher-centered (TC) and student-centered (SC)--and four subdomains: methods of instruction (MI), classroom milieu (CM), use of questions (UQ), and use of assessment (UA). Findings revealed that there were no significant differences in student-centered and teacher-centered teaching practices and methods of instruction, classroom milieu, and use of questions. There was a significant difference between the U.S. and Israeli groups in their reported use of assessment. The U.S. faculty reported a greater preference for student-centered assessment practices than did the Israeli faculty.

Implications of the 'Energide' concept for communication and information handling in the central nervous system.

PubMed

Agnati, L F; Fuxe, K; Baluska, F; Guidolin, D

2009-08-01

Recently a revision of the cell theory has been proposed, which has several implications both for physiology and pathology. This revision is founded on adapting the old Julius von Sach's proposal (1892) of the Energide as the fundamental universal unit of eukaryotic life. This view maintains that, in most instances, the living unit is the symbiotic assemblage of the cell periphery complex organized around the plasma membrane, some peripheral semi-autonomous cytosol organelles (as mitochondria and plastids, which may be or not be present), and of the Energide (formed by the nucleus, microtubules, and other satellite structures). A fundamental aspect is the proposal that the Energide plays a pivotal and organizing role of the entire symbiotic assemblage (see Appendix 1). The present paper discusses how the Energide paradigm implies a revision of the concept of the internal milieu. As a matter of fact, the Energide interacts with the cytoplasm that, in turn, interacts with the interstitial fluid, and hence with the medium that has been, classically, known as the internal milieu. Some implications of this aspect have been also presented with the help of a computational model in a mathematical Appendix 2 to the paper. Finally, relevances of the Energide concept for the information handling in the central nervous system are discussed especially in relation to the inter-Energide exchange of information.

What really happens in the neutrophil phagosome?

PubMed Central

Hurst, James K.

2015-01-01

Current viewpoints concerning the bactericidal mechanisms of neutrophils are reviewed from a perspective that emphasizes challenges presented by the inability to duplicate ex vivo the intracellular milieu. Among the challenges considered are the influences of confinement upon substrate availability and reaction dynamics, direct and indirect synergistic interactions between individual toxins, and bacterial responses to stressors. Approaches to gauging relative contributions of various oxidative and nonoxidative toxins within neutrophils using bacteria and bacterial mimics as intrinsic probes are also discussed. PMID:22609248

Curt Richter: psychobiology and the concept of instinct.

PubMed

Schulkin, Jay

2007-11-01

Curt Richter is at the origins of psychobiology in the United States. For Richter the concept of instinct was central to his research. While he had diverse interests that traversed a great range of psychobiology, the concept of instinct was fundamental to his research on specific hungers and the regulation of the internal milieu. Debates about the concept of instinct would last the bulk of Richter's experimental career, culminating in an international conference a decade after the Second World War.

Cyanide does more to inhibit heme enzymes, than merely serving as an active-site ligand.

PubMed

Parashar, Abhinav; Venkatachalam, Avanthika; Gideon, Daniel Andrew; Manoj, Kelath Murali

2014-12-12

The toxicity of cyanide is hitherto attributed to its ability to bind to heme proteins' active site and thereby inhibit their activity. It is shown herein that the long-held interpretation is inadequate to explain several observations in heme-enzyme reaction systems. Generation of cyanide-based diffusible radicals in heme-enzyme reaction milieu could shunt electron transfers (by non-active site processes), and thus be detrimental to the efficiency of oxidative outcomes. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Laser Safety Manual for DREO

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-11-01

milieu de travail securitaire dans les laboratoires de recherche utilisant de la radiation laser. L ’"American National Standard for the Safe Use of...d6fense nationale de poursuites l ~gales. i~i. I I EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Laser beams are currently used for some R&D activities at DREO. As laser radiation...par un appared as described in CFAO 66-4. must be strictly observed, laser peut provoquer des br-tilures de la reline et de la peau . Les mesures de

[Poisons in literature and iconography during the age of Pietro d'Abano].

PubMed

Morpurgo, Piero

2008-01-01

The fear of poisons belongs to the scientific knowledge from Antiquity till the Modern Era. Here the reader will find sources and resources on the idea of poisons; from Nicander of Colofon to Paolo Uccello. This paper rely on literary sources that have been part of the scientific milieu of Pietro d'Abano and his commentators: Cecco d'Ascoli, Guido da Pisa, Gregorio d'Arezzo, Jean de Mandeville. The essay describes illuminated manuscripts and masterpieces of art witnessing the concern for poisons.

Hormonal causes of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL).

PubMed

Pluchino, Nicola; Drakopoulos, Panagiotis; Wenger, Jean Marie; Petignat, Patrick; Streuli, Isabelle; Genazzani, Andrea Riccardo

2014-01-01

Endocrine disorders play a major role in approximately 8% to 12% of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). Indeed, the local hormonal milieu is crucial in both embryo attachment and early pregnancy. Endocrine abnormalities, including thyroid disorders, luteal phase defects, polycystic ovary syndrome, hyperprolactinaemia and diabetes have to be evaluated in any case of RPL. Moreover, elevated androgen levels and some endocrinological aspects of endometriosis are also factors contributing to RPL. In the present article, we review the significance of endocrine disease on RPL.

Ian Curtis: Punk rock, epilepsy, and suicide.

PubMed

Tuft, Mia; Gjelsvik, Bergljot; Nakken, Karl O

2015-11-01

Ian Curtis was the front man of the post-punk band Joy Division. He suffered from epilepsy and actively incorporated his experiences of the disease in his lyrics. Curtis had frequent epileptic seizures, both on and off stage. After dying from suicide in 1980, he became a legend in the post-punk milieu. The impact which the epilepsy, the epilepsy treatment, and comorbid depression had on his artistic life and premature death is not well known. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Kurt Gödels Brünner Verwandte

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Müller, Dora

2007-11-01

The author of this memoir Dora Müller (born 1920) belongs - as well as Kurt Gödel-to the German minority playing an important role in the past life of Brno. The marriage of his son included her among the Gödels collaterals. She was chemist, but also pianist, historician, participant of antinacist movement and iniciator of Czech-German understanding after war. Following her personal experiences, remembrances of Gödels relatives and documental materials, she evokes the atmosphere of broader family milieu of Kurt Gödel.

[Neurotransmitter mechanisms of context-dependent behavior].

PubMed

D'iakonova, V E

2012-01-01

The influence of context on behavioral choice is well known. Context can refer to behavioral state of an animal and to external factors such as season, presence of other individuals or food availability. How external and internal factors influencing decision-making are translated at the cellular level? I review the recent neuroethological data that strongly suggest that context reflects in content of neuroactive substances (neurotransmitters, modulators, hormones) that present in the extraneuronal milieu, while heterochemical neuronal microenvironment in its turn impacts motor program selection.

A Two-Ended Shooting Technique for Calculating Normal Modes in Underwater Acoustic Propagation,

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-09-01

tnad~ I’or Public rL.00uq cmd ina ts 85 12 _ 8 126 UNLIMITED DISTRIBUTION * I ’ National Defence Defense Nationale Research and Bureau de Recherche...d6crit un algorithme de calcul des modes acoustiques normaux en mer. L’algoritbme est applicable & un prof il arbitraire do densit6 et do vitesse du son... profondeur do roncontre au milieu, habituellement pr&s du point do vitesse du son minimum. on amfiliore par it~ration la solution dlesaai jusqu’& ce

An overview of subatomic particles for non-physicists.

PubMed

Lederman, Leon M

2007-08-01

The particles used in radiation therapy are part of a larger universe of particles discovered by experimental physicists. May of these particles are themselves composed of particles. Understanding the way particles interact, and the forces underlying their interactions, is basic to the quest to understand the universe. High-energy physics studies in the past have identified the particles used in medicine; future studies may identify still others, but if not, may contribute to a better knowledge of the milieu in which medicine and other human endeavors exist.

Les traces matérielles de la Carte du Ciel. Le cas des observatoires d'Alger et de Bordeaux.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Le Guet Tully, F.; Davoigneau, J.; Lamy, J.; de La Noë, J.; Rousseau, J.-M.; Sadsaoud, H.

2008-06-01

Le chapitre évoque les traces matérielles de la Carte du ciel subsistant dans les observatoires d'Alger et de Bordeaux. Les auteurs examinent d'abord l'opération d'inventaire du patrimoine astronomique entreprise à partir du milieu des années 1990. Ils examinent ensuite les éléments concrets constituant aujourd'hui le patrimoine de la Carte du Ciel : lunettes, abris, accessoires, laboratoires, réseaux, plaques de verre, registres, machines à mesurer les clichés, et cartes.

Evaluer les competences de communication en milieu scolaire (Evaluating Communicative Competence in the School Environment).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mothe, Jean-Claude

1981-01-01

Discusses the various aspects of tests based on the concepts of communicative competence and formative evaluation where the objective of the evaluation is to verify whether the learner is capable of using the language in actual communication. Takes most of the examples discussed from the text "Methode Orange 2." (MES)

Stress among Secondary School Teachers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria: Suggested Interventions in the Worksite Milieu

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nwimo, Ignatius O.; Onwunaka, Chinagorom

2015-01-01

The aim of the study was to determine the level of stress experienced by secondary school teachers in Ebonyi State. The dimensions of stress studied included physical stress, mental stress, emotional stress and social stress. The study adopted the cross-sectional survey design using a sample of 660 (male 259, female 401) teachers randomly drawn…

Teledetection passive et processus decisionnel a reference spatiale: Application a l'aquaculture en milieu marin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Habbane, Mohamed

L'objectif de cette etude est d'elaborer un processus decisionnel a reference spatiale (PDRS) pour la mariculture. Le PDRS est applique aux eaux cotieres de la baie des Chaleurs, dans le golfe du Saint-Laurent (Canada). Une carte preliminaire regionale d'indices du potentiel maricole, d'une limite de resolution spatiale de 1 kmsp2, est produite avec des parametres du niveau 1. Ces parametres englobent la temperature de l'eau de surface, extraite des images AVHRR, la salinite, les courants ainsi que les pigments chlorophylliens, quantifies a l'aide de mesures in situ. Les images AVHRR, prises en 1994, ont ete utiliees comme reference primaire pour selectionner des aires pouvant supporter une activite maricole sur la cote nord de la baie des Chaleurs. La temperature de surface extraite de ces images permet une analyse mesoechelle a la fois qualitative et quantitative des processus cotiers observes pendant la periode d'acquisition des donnees. Les autres donnees, soit la salinite, les courants et les concentrations en pigments chlorophylliens, sont analysees de facon a identifier la variabilite spatio-temporelle des caracteristiques des eaux de surface. L'ensemble des informations permet de produire une carte preliminaire regionale d'indices du potentiel maricole de la partie centrale de la baie des Chaleurs. Selon cet indice (defini entre 0 et 1), le secteur de potentiel aquicole de 0,5 a 0,75 s'etend sur une superficie d'environ 300 kmsp2. La localisation de cette aire potentielle est en accord avec les fortes concentrations en pigments chlrophylliens, presentant des conditions environnementales ideales a une haute productivite biologique. Par la suite la carte preliminaire est modifiee en tenant compte des parametres du niveau 2. Ces parametres sont la geomorphologie littorale, la bathymetrie, les sediments en suspension, les vents, les vagues, le debit d'eau douce, la glace marine, le carbone organique dissous, les aires de peche et les sources de pollution. Ces parametres sont compares deux a deux par rapport a la carte preliminaire regionale d'indices du potentiel maricole pour determiner leur poids relatif. La carte finale produite avec ces parametres du niveau 2 presente un secteur ou les indices du potentiel maricole sont de 0,5 a 0,75. Ce secteur longe la cote et epouse les isobathes de 10 a 30 m de profondeur. L'effet de la profondeur d'eau semble avoir jouer un role important. Le secteur de potentiel maricole de 0,25 a 0,5 est toujours present et couvre une superficie d'environ 426 kmsp2. L'etude necessitera toujours un suivi des conditions environnementales prevalant dans la region. Ce suivi peut etre effectue a l'aide d'un outil de vision aerospatiale (capteurs de teledetection) et d'analyse spatio-temporelle (SIG-PDRS). (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

[A unit for the care of acute headache attacks. A new experience in our milieu].

PubMed

Zukerman, E; Lima, J G; Hannuch, S N; Nothen, M R; Carvalho, D de S

1989-01-01

This paper presents the aims of the first unit for treatment of headache crisis in a Brazilian Medical School. The differences between this unit and a neurological emergency unit and the therapeutic schedules are discussed.

Dense Medium Ore Concentrates of Bois-Noirs; MINERAIS DES BOIS NOIRS CONCENTRES DE MILIEU DENSE

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

Le Bris, J.; Leduc, M.

1959-01-01

The chemical treatment of uranium concentrates of BoisNoirs ore obtained by heavy medium are discussed. The first part deals with sulfuric acid attack on the concentrate, and the second part with the separation of the solution from residues by filtration. A third part deals with this separation by decantation. The fourth part deals with the carbonation of the pickling solutions obtained. (auth)

A Multi-Time Scale Morphable Software Milieu for Polymorphous Computing Architectures (PCA) - Composable, Scalable Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-10-01

MONITORING AGENCY NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency AFRL/IFTC 3701 North Fairfax Drive...Scalable Parallel Libraries for Large-Scale Concurrent Applications," Technical Report UCRL -JC-109251, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

Children with Anxiety Disorders: Use of a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Model within a Social Milieu

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kearny, Regina; Pawlukewicz, Justine; Guardino, Mary

2014-01-01

Because anxiety is the most common mental health disorder diagnosed in children, early intervention is crucial for fundamental coping. Although cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the preferred treatment method for this affective disorder, instruction for children needs to be specific for them to successfully acquire and implement essential CBT…

[Prevalence of dental caries in school milieu in the northwest of Côte d'Ivoire].

PubMed

Yao, K J; N'Da, N A; Koffi, N M

2001-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of tooth decay and its correlation with dental care habits in northwestern Ivory Coast. Study was carried out in primary schools in the city of Odienne in January 1999. The study cohort comprised 500 students of both genders ranging in age from 4 to 15 years. The prevalence of tooth decay was 77.2% and the mean CAO index was 2.43. Dental care involved use of a chewing stick in 49% and a tooth brush in 50.8%. Only 5.6% of children cleaned their teeth three-times a day on a regular basis. Statistical analysis of study data demonstrated a correlation between the frequency of tooth cleaning and incidence of tooth decay. The incidence of tooth decay was 60.7% in students that cleaned their teeth three times a day versus 78.2% in students who cleaned their teeth less regularly. An educational campaign has been undertaken to inform students of the importance of oral hygiene in maintaining healthy teeth. A dental examination program would be useful to provide routine check-ups. A group study will be needed to monitor oral hygiene in students and evaluate the impact of these measures on tooth decay.

Tetrodotoxin Blockade on Canine Cardiac L-Type Ca2+ Channels Depends on pH and Redox Potential

PubMed Central

Hegyi, Bence; Komáromi, István; Kistamás, Kornél; Ruzsnavszky, Ferenc; Váczi, Krisztina; Horváth, Balázs; Magyar, János; Bányász, Tamás; Nánási, Péter P.; Szentandrássy, Norbert

2013-01-01

Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is believed to be one of the most selective inhibitors of voltage-gated fast Na+ channels in excitable tissues. Recently, however, TTX has been shown to block L-type Ca2+ current (ICa) in canine cardiac cells. In the present study, the TTX-sensitivity of ICa was studied in isolated canine ventricular myocytes as a function of (1) channel phosphorylation, (2) extracellular pH and (3) the redox potential of the bathing medium using the whole cell voltage clamp technique. Fifty-five micromoles of TTX (IC50 value obtained under physiological conditions) caused 60% ± 2% inhibition of ICa in acidic (pH = 6.4), while only a 26% ± 2% block in alkaline (pH = 8.4) milieu. Similarly, the same concentration of TTX induced 62% ± 6% suppression of ICa in a reductant milieu (containing glutathione + ascorbic acid + dithiothreitol, 1 mM each), in contrast to the 31% ± 3% blockade obtained in the presence of a strong oxidant (100 μM H2O2). Phosphorylation of the channel protein (induced by 3 μM forskolin) failed to modify the inhibiting potency of TTX; an IC50 value of 50 ± 4 μM was found in forskolin. The results are in a good accordance with the predictions of our model, indicating that TTX binds, in fact, to the selectivity filter of cardiac L-type Ca channels. PMID:23771047

Are maternal mitochondria the selfish entities that are masters of the cells of eukaryotic multicellular organisms?

PubMed Central

Barlow, Peter W; Baldelli, E; Baluška, Frantisek

2009-01-01

The Energide concept, as well as the endosymbiotic theory of eukaryotic cell organization and evolution, proposes that present-day cells of eukaryotic organisms are mosaics of specialized and cooperating units, or organelles. Some of these units were originally free-living prokaryotes, which were engulfed during evolutionary time. Mitochondria represent one of these types of previously independent organisms, the Energide, is another type. This new perspective on the organization of the cell has been further expanded to reveal the concept of a public milieu, the cytosol, in which Energides and mitochondria live, each with their own private internal milieu. The present paper discusses how the endosymbiotic theory implicates a new hypothesis about the hierarchical and communicational organization of the integrated prokaryotic components of the eukaryotic cell and provides a new angle from which to consider the theory of evolution and its bearing upon cellular complexity. Thus, it is proposed that the “selfish gene” hypothesis of Dawkins1 is not the only possible perspective for comprehending genomic and cellular evolution. Our proposal is that maternal mitochondria are the selfish “master” entities of the eukaryotic cell with respect not only to their propagation from cell-to-cell and from generation-to-generation but also to their regulation of all other cellular functions. However, it should be recognized that the concept of “master” and “servant” cell components is a metaphor; in present-day living organisms their organellar components are considered to be interdependent and inseparable. PMID:19513277

Differentiating Immune Cell Targets in Gut-Associated Lymphoid Tissue for HIV Cure.

PubMed

Khan, Shahzada; Telwatte, Sushama; Trapecar, Martin; Yukl, Steven; Sanjabi, Shomyseh

2017-11-01

The single greatest challenge to an HIV cure is the persistence of latently infected cells containing inducible, replication-competent proviral genomes, which constitute only a small fraction of total or infected cells in the body. Although resting CD4 + T cells in the blood are a well-known source of viral rebound, more than 90% of the body's lymphocytes reside elsewhere. Many are in gut tissue, where HIV DNA levels per million CD4 + T cells are considerably higher than in the blood. Despite the significant contribution of gut tissue to viral replication and persistence, little is known about the cell types that support persistence of HIV in the gut; importantly, T cells in the gut have phenotypic, functional, and survival properties that are distinct from T cells in other tissues. The mechanisms by which latency is established and maintained will likely depend on the location and cytokine milieu surrounding the latently infected cells in each compartment. Therefore, successful HIV cure strategies require identification and characterization of the exact cell types that support viral persistence, particularly in the gut. In this review, we describe the seeding of the latent HIV reservoir in the gut mucosa; highlight the evidence for compartmentalization and depletion of T cells; summarize the immunologic consequences of HIV infection within the gut milieu; propose how the damaged gut environment may promote the latent HIV reservoir; and explore several immune cell targets in the gut and their place on the path toward HIV cure.

Sex hormones in women with kidney disease.

PubMed

Ahmed, Sofia B; Ramesh, Sharanya

2016-11-01

Menstrual disorders, infertility and premature menopause are common but often underrecognized phenomena among women with chronic kidney disease. Hypothalamic, rather than ovarian dysfunction, may be the cause of the abnormal reproductive milieu, which can be at least partially reversed by kidney transplantation and increased intensity of hemodialysis. Endogenous sex hormones, and specifically estradiol, appear to be renoprotective in women, although the effects of exogenous estradiol (as an oral contraceptive and postmenopausal hormone therapy) on kidney function are more controversial. Treatment with postmenopausal hormone therapy in women with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) has been associated with improved quality of life, bone health and markers of cardiovascular risk, as well as an increased risk of arteriovenous access thrombosis. The selective estrogen receptor modulator raloxifene has been associated with both a decreased fracture risk as well as renoprotection in women with kidney disease. Young women with ESKD are more likely to die from infection or develop malignancy, suggesting an immunomodulatory role of estrogen. Whether the premature menopause commonly observed in female patients with kidney disease results in increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality is unknown, although preliminary studies have suggested a possible therapeutic role for manipulation of the sex hormone milieu to mitigate risk in this population. Large, prospective, randomized studies examining the role of sex hormones in women with kidney disease are required to address the question. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of ERA-EDTA. All rights reserved.

Décontamination nucléaire par laser UV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delaporte, Ph.; Gastaud, M.; Marine, W.; Sentis, M.; Uteza, O.; Thouvenot, P.; Alcaraz, J. L.; Le Samedy, J. M.; Blin, D.

2003-06-01

Le développement et l'utilisation de procédés propres pour le nettoyage ou la préparation de surfaces est l'une des priorités du milieu industriel. Cet intérêt est d'autant plus grand dans le domaine du nucléaire pour lequel la réduction des déchets est un axe de recherche important. Un dispositif de décontamination nucléaire par laser UV impulsionnel a été développé et testé. Il est composé. d'un laser à excimères de 1kW, d'un faisceau de fibres optiques et d'un dispositif de récupération des particules. Les essais réalisés en milieu actif ont démontré sa capacité à nettoyer des surfaces métalliques polluées par différents radioéléments avec des facteurs de décontamination généralement supérieurs à 10. Ce dispositif permet de décontaminer de grandes surfaces de géométrie simple en réduisant fortement la génération de déchets secondaires. Il est, à ce jour et dans ces conditions d'utilisations, le procédé de décontamination par voie sèche le plus efficace.

Optimisation de l'émission du continuum femtoseconde de lumière blanche entre 600 nm et 800 nm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramstein, S.; Mottin, S.

2005-06-01

Un dispositif de spectroscopie avec résolution du temps de vol des photons en milieu diffus a été développé. Celui-ci repose sur l'utilisation d'un continuum de lumière blanche généré par focalisation d'un laser amplifié (830 nm, 1 kHz, 0.5 W, 170 fs) dans de l'eau déminéralisée. Afin d'optimiser spectralement et en puissance la source blanche sur la fenêtre spectrale 600 800 nm, une étude de la mise en forme spatio-temporelle avant autofocalisation de l'impulsion laser par le milieu a été menée. Cette mise en forme est effectuée de manière spatiale en changeant la focale de la lentille de focalisation et de manière temporelle en changeant le taux de compression de l'impulsion. L'étude montre que le cône de lumière émise possède plus de puissance dans la fenêtre spectrale d'intérêt pour des focales longues. Sur la fenêtre 600-800 nm, le rendement énergétique intégré varie de 5%, avec une focalef=6cm, à 15%, avec une focale f = 30 cm. La mise en forme temporelle montre des effets similaires avec les mêmes ordres de grandeur.

Temporal change in megafauna at the Rose Garden hydrothermal vent (Galapagos Rift; eastern tropical Pacific)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hessler, Robert R.; Smithey, William M.; Boudrias, Michel A.; Keller, Clifford H.; Lutz, Richard A.; Childress, James J.

1988-10-01

Hydrothermal vent communities must undergo substantial temporal change because of their dynamic physical milieu. This was verified in March 1985, when the Rose Garden hydrothermal vent on the Galapagos Rift was revisited after 5 1/4 years' absence. Comparison of photographs from the two visits revealed considerable faunal change. Among the hosts to chemoautotrophic bacteria, vestimentiferans were reduced from dominance to very low numbers. The mytilid was now extremely abundant and dominated vent openings. Vesicomyids also were more abundant. In general, vent-field suspension feeders had declined; anemones were distinctly less abundant, and siphonophores and enteropneusts were virtually absent. The decline of serpulids was likely, but less obvious. Of the mobile scavengers and carnivores, both galatheids and whelks were distincly more common. These community changes appear to result from both continuing recruitment and changes in the physical milieu. While the growth of some populations could have resulted from expanding opportunities, the population of at least one, the vesicomyid, had not achieved carrying capacity in 1979, and this could have pertained to others as well. The decrease of vestimentiferans may have been caused by declining vent-water flux, a process that would favor mytilids, or more complete vent-water filtration by the mytilids themselves. The same factors also could explain the reduction of vent-field filter feeders. These observations suggest that early stages in the cycle of Galapagos-type vent communities are likely to be dominated by vestimentiferans, but that bivalves will replace them with time.

Enhanced UGT1A1 Gene and Protein Expression in Endometriotic Lesions.

PubMed

Piccinato, Carla A; Neme, Rosa M; Torres, Natália; da Silva Victor, Elivane; Brudniewski, Heloísa F; Rosa E Silva, Júlio C; Ferriani, Rui A

2018-01-01

The cellular function in endometriosis lesions depends on a highly estrogenic milieu. Lately, it is becoming evident that, besides the circulating levels of estrogens, the balance of synthesis versus inactivation (metabolism) of estrogens by intralesion steroid-metabolizing enzymes also determines the local net estrogen availability. In order to extend the knowledge of the role of estrogen-metabolizing enzymes in endometriosis, we investigated the gene and protein expression of a key uridine diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) for estrogen glucuronidation, UGT1A1, in eutopic endometrial samples obtained from nonaffected and endometriosis-affected women and also from endometriotic lesions. Although UGT1A1 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression was detected at similar frequencies in endometriotic lesions and in eutopic endometrial samples, the levels of mRNA expression were greater in deep-infiltrating endometriotic lesions and in non-deep-infiltrating lesions when compared with either control endometrium or eutopic endometrium from women with endometriosis. Overall, we observed that protein expression of UGT1A1 was significantly more frequent in samples from endometriotic lesions in comparison with endometria. In addition, expression of UGT1A1 protein was greater in deep-infiltrating than in non-deep-infiltrating endometriotic lesions. We suggest that the finding of increased expression of UGT1A1 in lesions versus endometria might be related to impairment of regulatory mechanisms, in response to a highly estrogenic milieu, and that this enzyme may be a new target for therapy.

Chemokine Involvement in Fetal and Adult Wound Healing

PubMed Central

Balaji, Swathi; Watson, Carey L.; Ranjan, Rajeev; King, Alice; Bollyky, Paul L.; Keswani, Sundeep G.

2015-01-01

Significance: Fetal wounds heal with a regenerative phenotype that is indistinguishable from surrounding skin with restored skin integrity. Compared to this benchmark, all postnatal wound healing is impaired and characterized by scar formation. The biologic basis of the fetal regenerative phenotype can serve as a roadmap to recapitulating regenerative repair in adult wounds. Reduced leukocyte infiltration, likely mediated, in part, through changes in the chemokine milieu, is a fundamental feature of fetal wound healing. Recent Advances: The contributions of chemokines to wound healing are a topic of active investigation. Recent discoveries have opened the possibility of targeting chemokines therapeutically to treat disease processes and improve healing capability, including the possibility of achieving a scarless phenotype in postnatal wounds. Critical Issues: Successful wound healing is a complex process, in which there is a significant interplay between multiple cell types, signaling molecules, growth factors, and extracellular matrix. Chemokines play a crucial role in this interplay and have been shown to have different effects in various stages of the healing process. Understanding how these chemokines are locally produced and regulated during wound healing and how the chemokine milieu differs in fetal versus postnatal wounds may help us identify ways in which we can target chemokine pathways. Future Directions: Further studies on the role of chemokines and their role in the healing process will greatly advance the potential for using these molecules as therapeutic targets. PMID:26543680

Effect of diet grinding and pelleting fed either dry or liquid feed on dry matter and pH in the stomach of pigs and the development of gastric ulcers.

PubMed

Mösseler, A; Wintermann, M; Sander, S J; Kamphues, J

2012-12-01

The physical form of diets has a marked impact on the development of gastric ulcers in pigs. Earlier studies showed effects of fine grinding and pelleting on the integrity of gastric mucosa as well as on local intragastric milieu. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dry or liquid feeding on intragastric milieu (DM and pH) in pigs. The 23 piglets were housed individually and fed with test diets and water ad lib for 6 wk. Both experimental diets [coarsely ground diet fed as mash (CM) vs. finely ground pelleted diet (FP)] were identical in ingredients (39.5% wheat, 34% barley, 20% soybean meal) and chemical composition and were either offered dry or in liquid (25% DM) form. At the end of the trial the animals were slaughtered; the stomach was removed and samples were taken from different localizations. Feeding diets dry or liquid had no effect on the pH (P > 0.05). The diet noticeably affected the gastric content. The FP diets resulted in a more liquid chyme (P < 0.05), and the intragastric pH did not differ between regions. Feeding CM caused marked effects of localization regarding pH (highest values: pars nonglandularis; lowest values: fundus). None of the pigs fed CM showed signs of gastric ulcers, but the score was markedly higher (P < 0.05) when pigs were fed FP. Therefore the predominant factor for development of gastric ulcers seems to be the structure (particle size) of the diet.

Local anaesthesia through the action of cocaine, the oral mucosa and the Vienna group.

PubMed

López-Valverde, A; de Vicente, J; Martínez-Domínguez, L; de Diego, R Gómez

2014-07-11

Local anaesthesia through the action of cocaine was introduced in Europe by the Vienna group, which includeed Freud, Koller and Königstein. Before using the alkaloid in animal or human experimentation all these scientists tested it on their oral mucosa - so-called self-experimentation. Some of them with different pathologies (that is, in the case of Freud), eventually became addicted to the alkaloid. Here we attempt to describe the people forming the so-called 'Vienna group', their social milieu, their experiences and internal disputes within the setting of a revolutionary discovery of the times.

Changes of pressure and humidity affect olfactory function.

PubMed

Kuehn, Michael; Welsch, Heiko; Zahnert, Thomas; Hummel, Thomas

2008-03-01

The present study aimed at investigating the question whether olfactory function changes in relation to barometric pressure and humidity. Using climate chambers, odor threshold and discrimination for butanol were tested in 75 healthy volunteers under hypobaric and hyperbaric, and different humidity conditions. Among other effects, olfactory sensitivity at threshold level, but not suprathreshold odor discrimination, was impaired in a hypobaric compared to a hyperbaric milieu, and thresholds were lower in humid, compared to relatively dry conditions. In conclusion, environmental conditions modulate the sense of smell, and may, consecutively, influence results from olfactory tests.

Neuroscience, ethics, and national security: the state of the art.

PubMed

Tennison, Michael N; Moreno, Jonathan D

2012-01-01

National security organizations in the United States, including the armed services and the intelligence community, have developed a close relationship with the scientific establishment. The latest technology often fuels warfighting and counter-intelligence capacities, providing the tactical advantages thought necessary to maintain geopolitical dominance and national security. Neuroscience has emerged as a prominent focus within this milieu, annually receiving hundreds of millions of Department of Defense dollars. Its role in national security operations raises ethical issues that need to be addressed to ensure the pragmatic synthesis of ethical accountability and national security.

Neuroscience, Ethics, and National Security: The State of the Art

PubMed Central

Tennison, Michael N.; Moreno, Jonathan D.

2012-01-01

National security organizations in the United States, including the armed services and the intelligence community, have developed a close relationship with the scientific establishment. The latest technology often fuels warfighting and counter-intelligence capacities, providing the tactical advantages thought necessary to maintain geopolitical dominance and national security. Neuroscience has emerged as a prominent focus within this milieu, annually receiving hundreds of millions of Department of Defense dollars. Its role in national security operations raises ethical issues that need to be addressed to ensure the pragmatic synthesis of ethical accountability and national security. PMID:22448146

Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus Viral Interferon Regulatory Factor 4 (vIRF4) Perturbs the G1-S Cell Cycle Progression via Deregulation of the cyclin D1 Gene.

PubMed

Lee, Hye-Ra; Mitra, Jaba; Lee, Stacy; Gao, Shou-Jiang; Oh, Tae-Kwang; Kim, Myung Hee; Ha, Taekjip; Jung, Jae U

2016-01-15

Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) infection modulates the host cell cycle to create an environment optimal for its viral-DNA replication during the lytic life cycle. We report here that KSHV vIRF4 targets the β-catenin/CBP cofactor and blocks its occupancy on the cyclin D1 promoter, suppressing the G1-S cell cycle progression and enhancing KSHV replication. This shows that KSHV vIRF4 suppresses host G1-S transition, possibly providing an intracellular milieu favorable for its replication. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Development of Theories of Collective and Cognitive Skill Retention

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-03-31

les FC fonctionnent au niveau organisationnel, en faisant appel à une technologie toujours plus perfectionnée et en accordant de plus en plus...d’importance aux tâches cognitives. Cet article passe en revue les données et théories publiées et non publiées provenant du milieu de la recherche et du...développement militaires et portant sur la préservation des compétences collectives et cognitives en tant qu’étape menant à la proposition d’un

Electron tunnelling through single azurin molecules can be on/off switched by voltage pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baldacchini, Chiara; Kumar, Vivek; Bizzarri, Anna Rita; Cannistraro, Salvatore

2015-05-01

Redox metalloproteins are emerging as promising candidates for future bio-optoelectronic and nano-biomemory devices, and the control of their electron transfer properties through external signals is still a crucial task. Here, we show that a reversible on/off switching of the electron current tunnelling through a single protein can be achieved in azurin protein molecules adsorbed on gold surfaces, by applying appropriate voltage pulses through a scanning tunnelling microscope tip. The observed changes in the hybrid system tunnelling properties are discussed in terms of long-sustained charging of the protein milieu.

In vivo veritas, in vitro artificia

PubMed Central

Matarese, Giuseppe; La Cava, Antonio; Horvath, Tamas L.

2012-01-01

Recently, the understanding of dynamic cellular changes that occur in vivo has advanced significantly, both at the extracellular and intracellular levels. These changes might fluctuate with daily, circadian, weekly, or monthly intervals, and the approaches used to understand these changing conditions in vitro should parallel in vivo studies. In addition, the in vitro milieu should be optimized and better defined, so that artefacts due to in vitro culture systems would not pose dangers for the proper interpretation of results. In this article, we discuss some of these issues and propose solutions. PMID:22682514

Dynamique d'un oscillateur photoréfractif : instabilités et analogie avec la loi de Curie-Weiss

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mathey, P.; Odoulov, S. G.; Rytz, D.

2002-06-01

La dynamique et l'état stationnaire du faisceau issu d'une cavité oscillante comprenant un cristal non-linéaire de titanate de baryum utilisé en tant que miroir à conjugaison de phase sont étudiés. Le paramètre du système étant le gain du milieu non-linéaire, les dépendances de l'intensité de l'oscillation et de l'inverse du temps de réponse sont similaires aux lois de Curie en physique du solide.

NANOPARTICLES AND THEIR APPLICATIONS IN CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

PubMed Central

Wang, Edina C.; Wang, Andrew Z.

2013-01-01

Nanoparticles can be engineered with distinctive compositions, sizes, shapes, and surface chemistries to enable novel techniques in a wide range of biological applications. The unique properties of nanoparticles and their behavior in biological milieu also enable exciting and integrative approaches to studying fundamental biological questions. This review will provide an overview of various types of nanoparticles and concepts of targeting nanoparticles. We will also discuss the advantages and recent applications of using nanoparticles as tools for drug delivery, imaging, sensing, and for the understanding of basic biological processes. PMID:24104563

[The medical world of Juan Gil de Zamora's Historia Naturalis (ca. 1275-1296)].

PubMed

García Ballester, L; Domínguez, A

1994-01-01

The article describes the authors and works which were quoted by the Franciscan Juan Gil de Zamora in his Historia naturalis, a scientific encyclopaedia written between c. 1275 and before 1296, probably in the Franciscan monastery of Zamora (Kingdom of Castille). Juan Gil made wide use of the Avicenna's Canon, Gilbertus de Aquila (Anglicus)'s Compendium medicine, and Salernitan medical literature. His work contributed to the diffusion of these medical authors and works throughout the Christian intellectual milieu of late medieval Castille. This diffusion was not without problems.

Advanced Avionics and the Military Aircraft Man/Machine Interface.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-07-01

voiture au bas c~t6 de la route, angle d’incidence de l’aile, etc ... Le domaine de variation de chacun de ces param~tres de fonctionnement est en gdn6...ral limit6. Les limites, du domaine autoris6 sont bien souvent floues ; en toute rigueur il faut adniettre qu’au milieu du domaine autoristi, la...rapidement catastrophique 11 est n6anmoihs commode de parler de limite de domaine autoris6 pour chaque para- m~tre de fonctionnement tout en gardant A

Etude de l'impact de la valorisation energetique de pneus hors d'usage, dans une cimenterie, sur les emissions gazeuses par modelisation de la dispersion atmospherique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bredin, Nathalie

concentration des contaminants au niveau du sol. L'étude du modèle gaussien de dispersion a permis de mettre au point un nouvel outil: la corrélation existant entre les concentrations latérales et verticales des polluants dans le panache. Cet outil utilisé pour étudier les schémas de dispersion atmosphérique de Turner en milieu rural, et de Briggs en milieux urbain et rural, montre que, en milieu rural, le schéma de dispersion proposé par Briggs présente une dispersion plus importante que celui de Turner pour les classes neutres et instables et moins importantes pour les classes stables. La comparaison des schémas de Briggs (rural et urbain) confirme que la dispersion en milieu urbain est plus importante qu'en milieu rural.

Protein corona composition of gold nanoparticles/nanorods affects amyloid beta fibrillation process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mirsadeghi, Somayeh; Dinarvand, Rassoul; Ghahremani, Mohammad Hossein; Hormozi-Nezhad, Mohammad Reza; Mahmoudi, Zohreh; Hajipour, Mohammad Javad; Atyabi, Fatemeh; Ghavami, Mahdi; Mahmoudi, Morteza

2015-03-01

Protein fibrillation process (e.g., from amyloid beta (Aβ) and α-synuclein) is the main cause of several catastrophic neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson diseases. During the past few decades, nanoparticles (NPs) were recognized as one of the most promising tools for inhibiting the progress of the disease by controlling the fibrillation kinetic process; for instance, gold NPs have a strong capability to inhibit Aβ fibrillations. It is now well understood that a layer of biomolecules would cover the surface of NPs (so called ``protein corona'') upon the interaction of NPs with protein sources. Due to the fact that the biological species (e.g., cells and amyloidal proteins) ``see'' the protein corona coated NPs rather than the pristine coated particles, one should monitor the fibrillation process of amyloidal proteins in the presence of corona coated NPs (and not pristine coated ones). Therefore, the previously obtained data on NPs effects on the fibrillation process should be modified to achieve a more reliable and predictable in vivo results. Herein, we probed the effects of various gold NPs (with different sizes and shapes) on the fibrillation process of Aβ in the presence and absence of protein sources (i.e., serum and plasma). We found that the protein corona formed a shell at the surface of gold NPs, regardless of their size and shape, reducing the access of Aβ to the gold inhibitory surface and, therefore, affecting the rate of Aβ fibril formation. More specifically, the anti-fibrillation potencies of various corona coated gold NPs were strongly dependent on the protein source and their concentrations (10% serum/plasma (simulation of an in vitro milieu) and 100% serum/plasma (simulation of an in vivo milieu)).Protein fibrillation process (e.g., from amyloid beta (Aβ) and α-synuclein) is the main cause of several catastrophic neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson diseases. During the past few decades

Does the extracorporeal circulation worsen anemia in hemodialysis patients? Investigation with advanced microscopes of red blood cells drawn at the beginning and end of dialysis.

PubMed

Stamopoulos, Dimosthenis; Bakirtzi, Nerantzoula; Manios, Efthymios; Grapsa, Eirini

2013-01-01

In hemodialysis (HD) patients, anemia relates to three main factors: insufficient production of erythropoietin; impaired management of iron; and decreased lifespan of red blood cells (RBCs). The third factor can relate to structural deterioration of RBCs due to extrinsic (extracorporeal circuit; biochemical activation and/or mechanical stress during dialysis) and intrinsic (uremic milieu; biochemical interference of the RBC membrane constituents with toxins) mechanisms. Herein, we evaluate information accessed with advanced imaging techniques at the cellular level. Atomic force and scanning electron microscopes were employed to survey intact RBCs (iRBCs) of seven HD patients in comparison to seven healthy donors. The extrinsic factor was investigated by contrasting pre- and post-HD samples. The intrinsic environment was investigated by comparing the microscopy data with the clinical ones. The iRBC membranes of the enrolled HD patients were overpopulated with orifice-like (high incidence; typical size within 100-1,000 nm) and crevice-like (low incidence; typical size within 500-4,000 nm) defects that exhibited a statistically significant (P < 0.05) relative increase (+55% and +350%, respectively) in respect to healthy donors. The relative variation of the orifice and crevice indices (mean population of orifices and crevices per top membrane surface) between pre- and post-HD was not statistically significant (-3.3% and +4.5%, respectively). The orifice index correlates with the concentrations of urea, calcium, and phosphorus, but not, however, with that of creatinine. Extracorporeal circulation is not detrimental to the structural integrity of RBC membranes. Uremic milieu is a candidate cause of RBC membrane deterioration, which possibly worsens anemia.

Effects of Freeze-Thawing and Intravenous Infusion on Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Gene Expression.

PubMed

Hoogduijn, Martin J; de Witte, Samantha F H; Luk, Franka; van den Hout-van Vroonhoven, Mirjam C G N; Ignatowicz, Lech; Catar, Rusan; Strini, Tanja; Korevaar, Sander S; van IJcken, Wilfred F J; Betjes, Michiel G H; Franquesa, Marcella; Moll, Guido; Baan, Carla C

2016-04-15

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) are increasingly used as an investigative therapeutic product for immune disorders and degenerative disease. Typically, MSC are isolated from human tissue, expanded in culture, and cryopreserved until usage. The safety and efficacy of MSC therapy will depend on the phenotypical and functional characteristics of MSC. The freeze-thawing procedure may change these characteristics. Furthermore, the cells encounter a microenvironment after administration that may impact their properties. It has been demonstrated that the majority of MSC localize to the lungs after intravenous infusion, making this the site to study the effects of the in vivo milieu on administered MSC. In this study, we investigated the effect of freeze-thawing and the mouse lung microenvironment on human adipose tissue-derived MSC. There were effects of freeze-thawing on the whole genome expression profile of MSC, although the effects did not exceed interdonor differences. There were no major changes in the expression of hemostatic regulators on transcriptional level, but significantly increased expression of procoagulant tissue factor on the surface of thawed adipose MSC, correlating with increased procoagulant activity of thawed cells. Exposure for 2 h to the lung microenvironment had a major effect on MSC gene expression and affected several immunological pathways. This indicates that MSC undergo functional changes shortly after infusion and this may influence the efficacy of MSC to modulate inflammatory responses. The results of this study demonstrate that MSC rapidly alter in response to the local milieu and disease-specific conditions may shape MSC after administration.

Dual drug delivery using "smart" liposomes for triggered release of anticancer agents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jain, Ankit; Gulbake, Arvind; Jain, Ashish; Shilpi, Satish; Hurkat, Pooja; Jain, Sanjay K.

2013-07-01

Ovarian cancer is one of the most fatal gynecologic cancers. In this debut study, dual approach using synergistically active combination of paclitaxel-topotecan (Pac-Top; 20:1, w/w) is investigated with utilization of characteristic features of tumor micro-environment and additionally overexpressed folate receptors (FR-α) to achieve targeting to tumor site. Various liposomes namely liposomes, PEGylated liposomes, and FR-targeted PEGylated liposomes with lipid compositions viz. DPPC:DMPG (85.5:9.5), DPPC:DMPG:mPEG2000-DSPE (85.5:9.5:5), and DPPC:DMPG:mPEG2000-DSPE:DSPE-PEG-folate (85.5:9.5:4.5:0.5), respectively, were developed using thin film casting method. These were nanometric in size around 200 nm. In vitro drug release study showed initial burst release followed by sustained release for more than 72 h at physiological milieu (37 ± 0.5 °C, pH 7.4) while burst release (i.e., more than 90 %) within 5 min at simulated tumor milieu (41 ± 1 °C, pH 4). SRB cytotoxicity assay in OVCAR-3 cell line revealed Pac-Top free (20:1, w/w) to be more toxic (GI50 = 6.5 μg/ml) than positive control (Adriamycin, GI50 = 9.1 μg/ml) and FR-targeted PEGylated liposomes GI50 (14.7 μg/ml). Moreover, florescence microscopy showed the highest cell uptake of FR-targeted PEGylated liposomes so called "smart liposomes" which has not only mediated effective targeting to FR-α but also triggered release of drugs upon hyperthermia.

Service quality and parents' willingness to get adolescents HPV vaccine from pharmacists.

PubMed

Shah, Parth D; Calo, William A; Marciniak, Macary W; Golin, Carol E; Sleath, Betsy L; Brewer, Noel T

2018-04-01

We sought to examine whether pharmacy service quality was associated with parents' willingness to have immunizing pharmacists administer human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to their adolescent children. Participants were a national sample of 1504 US parents of adolescents ages 11 to 17 who completed an online survey in 2014. Analyses used structural equation modeling. Parents rated service quality and feelings of satisfaction with their pharmacies as moderate to high. Many (44%) were willing to get HPV vaccine from immunizing pharmacists for their adolescent children. Compared with parents who went to chain pharmacies, parents who went to independent pharmacies gave higher ratings of service quality (professionalism, confidentiality, milieu, all p < .001). Parents who went to clinic pharmacies, compared with parents who went to chain pharmacies gave lower ratings for milieu (p < .01). Parents who went to independent pharmacies had lower willingness to get HPV vaccine from pharmacists compared to parents who went to chain pharmacies (p = .001), but there was no difference in willingness for parents who went to clinic versus chain pharmacies. Service quality and satisfaction partially mediated the effect between independent pharmacies compared to chain pharmacies and willingness (p < .05). Parents who knew their pharmacists or expressed more confidence in HPV vaccine also had higher willingness to get their children HPV vaccine from pharmacist. Many parents were willing to go to immunizing pharmacists for their children's HPV vaccination. Pharmacies that are considering offering HPV vaccine may be able to improve vaccine uptake by increasing perception of service quality. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Molecular Profiling of Post-Reperfusion Milieu Determines Acute Kidney Injury after Liver Transplantation: a Prospective Study.

PubMed

Pulitano, Carlo; Ho, Phong; Verran, Deborah; Sandroussi, Charbel; Joseph, David; Bowen, David G; McCaughan, Geoffrey W; Crawford, Michael; Shackel, Nicholas

2018-04-23

Acute kidney injury (AKI) after liver transplantation (LT) is a common event, but its pathogenesis remains unclear. The aim of this prospective study is to investigate the potential relationship between post-reperfusion gene expression, serum mediators, and the onset of AKI after LT. Sixty-five consecutive patients undergoing LT were included in the study. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT- PCR), was performed on liver biopsies. Gene expression of 23 genes involved in ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) was evaluated. The serum concentrations of endothelin-1 (ET-1), and inflammatory cytokines were analyzed. AKI after LT developed in 21 (32%) recipients (AKI group). RT-PCR of reperfusion biopsy in AKI group showed higher expression of several genes involved in IRI compared to non-AKI group. Fold changes in the gene expression of ET-1, IL-18, and TNF-α were associated with creatinine peak value. AKI patients had also significantly higher ET-1, IL-18, and TNF-α postoperative serum levels. Multivariate analysis showed that ET-1 (OR 16.7, 95% CI 3.34-83.42, P = 0.001) and IL-18 (OR 5.27, 95% CI 0.99-27.82, P = 0.048) serum levels on POD1 were independently predictor of AKI. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis demonstrated that the combination of biomarkers ET-1+IL-18 was highly predictive of AKI (ROC-AUC 0.91, 95% CI: 0.83-0.99). Early allograft dysfunction and chronic kidney disease stage ≥ 2 occurred more frequently in AKI patients. These results suggest that the graft itself, rather than intraoperative hemodynamic instability plays a main role in AKI after LT. This data may have mechanistic and diagnostic implications for AKI after LT. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. © 2018 by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.

Workplace Literacy and Basic Skills = L'alphabetisation et les competences de base en milieu de travail.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Waugh, Sue

Workplace literacy and basic skills may be defined as skills needed by employees at work: reading, writing, math, and problem solving. Workplace literacy and skill requirements are based on the needs of each workplace and its workers. These skills are important because the work force needs to be highly skilled and adaptable to compete in a global…

Increasing Math Milieu Teaching by Varying Levels of Consultation Support: An Example of Analyzing Intervention Strength

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Marsicano, Richard T.; Morrison, Julie Q.; Moomaw, Sally C.; Fite, Nathan M.; Kluesener, Courtney M.

2015-01-01

The current study used a single-case design to examine two performance feedback conditions varying in intensity on the frequency of naturalistic math instruction in preschool classrooms during non-instructional times (transition, lunch, free play). Three Head Start teachers received professional development that combined information on four…

Changes in Personality Disorder Traits Following 2 Years of Treatment in a Secure Therapeutic Community Milieu

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morrissey, Catrin; Taylor, Jon

2014-01-01

Therapeutic community treatment models have not previously been applied to forensic patients with mild intellectual disabilities (IDs) with a comorbid diagnosis of personality disorder. Thirteen patients with mild IDs were allocated to a unit within a high secure psychiatric service operating a model of treatment based on the principles and…

Developmental programming: impact of excess prenatal testosterone on intrauterine fetal endocrine milieu and growth in sheep.

PubMed

Veiga-Lopez, Almudena; Steckler, Teresa L; Abbott, David H; Welch, Kathleen B; MohanKumar, Puliyur S; Phillips, David J; Refsal, Kent; Padmanabhan, Vasantha

2011-01-01

Prenatal testosterone excess in sheep leads to reproductive and metabolic disruptions that mimic those seen in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Comparison of prenatal testosterone-treated sheep with prenatal dihydrotestosterone-treated sheep suggests facilitation of defects by androgenic as well as androgen-independent effects of testosterone. We hypothesized that the disruptive impact of prenatal testosterone on adult pathology may partially depend on its conversion to estrogen and consequent changes in maternal and fetal endocrine environments. Pregnant Suffolk sheep were administered either cottonseed oil (control) or testosterone propionate in cottonseed oil (100 mg, i.m. twice weekly), from Day 30 to Day 90 of gestation (term is ~147 d). Maternal (uterine) and fetal (umbilical) arterial samples were collected at Days 64-66, 87-90, and 139-140 (range; referred to as D65, D90, and D140, respectively) of gestation. Concentrations of gonadal and metabolic hormones, as well as differentiation factors, were measured using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometer, radioimmunoassay, or ELISA. Findings indicate that testosterone treatment produced maternal and fetal testosterone levels comparable to adult males and D65 control male fetuses, respectively. Testosterone treatment increased fetal estradiol and estrone levels during the treatment period in both sexes, supportive of placental aromatization of testosterone. These steroidal changes were followed by a reduction in maternal estradiol levels at term, a reduction in activin A availability, and induction of intrauterine growth restriction in D140 female fetuses. Overall, our findings provide the first direct evidence in support of the potential for both androgenic as well as estrogenic contribution in the development of adult reproductive and metabolic pathology in prenatal testosterone-treated sheep.

The Differential Hormonal Milieu of Morning versus Evening May Have an Impact on Muscle Hypertrophic Potential.

PubMed

Burley, Simon D; Whittingham-Dowd, Jayde; Allen, Jeremy; Grosset, Jean-Francois; Onambele-Pearson, Gladys L

2016-01-01

Substantial gains in muscle strength and hypertrophy are clearly associated with the routine performance of resistance training. What is less evident is the optimal timing of the resistance training stimulus to elicit these significant functional and structural skeletal muscle changes. Therefore, this investigation determined the impact of a single bout of resistance training performed either in the morning or evening upon acute anabolic signalling (insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3), myogenic index and differentiation) and catabolic processes (cortisol). Twenty-four male participants (age 21.4±1.9yrs, mass 83.7±13.7kg) with no sustained resistance training experience were allocated to a resistance exercise group (REP). Sixteen of the 24 participants were randomly selected to perform an additional non-exercising control group (CP) protocol. REP performed two bouts of resistance exercise (80% 1RM) in the morning (AM: 0800 hrs) and evening (PM: 1800 hrs), with the sessions separated by a minimum of 72 hours. Venous blood was collected immediately prior to, and 5 min after, each resistance exercise and control sessions. Serum cortisol and IGFBP-3 levels, myogenic index, myotube width, were determined at each sampling period. All data are reported as mean ± SEM, statistical significance was set at P≤0.05. As expected a significant reduction in evening cortisol concentration was observed at pre (AM: 98.4±10.5, PM: 49.8±4.4 ng/ml, P<0.001) and post (AM: 98.0±9.0, PM: 52.7±6.0 ng/ml, P<0.001) exercise. Interestingly, individual cortisol differences pre vs post exercise indicate a time-of-day effect (AM difference: -2±2.6%, PM difference: 14.0±6.7%, P = 0.03). A time-of-day related elevation in serum IGFBP-3 (AM: 3274.9 ± 345.2, PM: 3605.1 ± 367.5, p = 0.032) was also evident. Pre exercise myogenic index (AM: 8.0±0.6%, PM: 16.8±1.1%) and myotube width (AM: 48.0±3.0, PM: 71.6±1.9 μm) were significantly elevated (P<0.001) in the evening. Post exercise myogenic index was greater AM (11.5±1.6%) compared with PM (4.6±0.9%). No difference was observed in myotube width (AM: 48.5±1.5, PM: 47.8±1.8 μm) (P>0.05). Timing of resistance training regimen in the evening appears to augment some markers of hypertrophic potential, with elevated IGFBP-3, suppressed cortisol and a superior cellular environment. Further investigation, to further elucidate the time course of peak anabolic signalling in morning vs evening training conditions, are timely.

New Ecological Paradigm and Sustainability Attitudes with Respect to a Multi-Cultural Educational Milieu in China

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wells, Mona; Petherick, Lynda

2016-01-01

Institutions of higher education are increasingly interested in how the student experience may or may not influence world views and particularly with respect to sustainability. Here we report preliminary results from a New Ecological Paradigm (NEP) study in China to benchmark student responses, and we relate these results to findings from other…

Teaching Parents Enhanced Milieu Teaching with Words and Signs Using the Teach-Model-Coach-Review Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wright, Courtney A.; Kaiser, Ann P.

2017-01-01

Measuring treatment fidelity is an essential step in research designed to increase the use of evidence-based practices. For parent-implemented communication interventions, measuring the implementation of the teaching and coaching provided to the parents is as critical as measuring the parents' delivery of the intervention to the child. Both levels…

Steroid hormone receptors: long- and short-term integrators of the internal milieu and the external environment.

PubMed

Blaustein, J D

2012-07-01

Many of the influences of estrogens and progestins on the brain and behavior are mediated by estrogen receptors and progestin receptors, acting as transcriptional regulators. The homologous and heterologous regulation of the concentrations of these receptors by cognate hormones is well established. However, although they were discovered and characterized based on their binding to cognate hormone and their role in transcriptional regulation, steroid hormone receptors have a more complex role and serve many more functions than originally suspected. First, besides being regulated by steroid hormones, the intracellular concentrations of brain steroid hormone receptors are regulated by neurotransmitters, a pathway by which stimuli from the environment, including from conspecific animals, can modulate the concentration of particular steroid hormone receptors in subsets of cells. Further, besides being activated by cognate steroid hormones, the receptors can be activated by a variety of neurotransmitters and phosphorylation pathways, providing a route through which environmental stimulation can activate steroid-receptor-dependent functions in specific cells. In addition, the transcription factor, estrogen receptor-α, produced from the estrogen receptor-α gene, can be modified to be targeted to membranes, where it can signal via kinase pathways. Finally, developmental experiences, such as particular stressors during the pubertal period, can permanently remodel the brain's response to ovarian hormones, most likely by long-term changes in regulation of the receptors mediating those responses. In addition to their function in responding to cognate ligand, it is now more appropriate to think of steroid hormone receptors as integrators of a wide variety of signaling pathways. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Depot differences in steroid receptor expression in adipose tissue: possible role of the local steroid milieu.

PubMed

Rodriguez-Cuenca, S; Monjo, M; Proenza, A M; Roca, P

2005-01-01

Sex hormones play an important role in adipose tissue metabolism by activating specific receptors that alter several steps of the lipolytic and lipogenic signal cascade in depot- and sex-dependent manners. However, studies focusing on steroid receptor status in adipose tissue are scarce. In the present study, we analyzed steroid content [testosterone (T), 17beta-estradiol (17beta-E2), and progesterone (P4)] and steroid receptor mRNA levels in different rat adipose tissue depots. As expected, T levels were higher in males than in females (P = 0.031), whereas the reverse trend was observed for P4 (P < 0.001). It is noteworthy that 17beta-E2 adipose tissue levels were higher in inguinal than in the rest of adipose tissues for both sexes, where no sex differences in 17beta-E2 tissue levels were noted (P = 0.010 for retroperitoneal, P = 0.005 for gonadal, P = 0.018 for mesenteric). Regarding steroid receptor levels, androgen (AR) and estrogen receptor (ER)alpha and ERbeta densities were more clearly dependent on adipose depot location than on sex, with visceral depots showing overall higher mRNA densities than their subcutaneous counterparts. Besides, expression of ERalpha predominated over ERbeta expression, and progesterone receptor (PR-B form and PR-A+B form) mRNAs were identically expressed regardless of anatomic depot and sex. In vitro studies in 3T3-L1 cells showed that 17beta-E2 increased ERalpha (P = 0.001) and AR expression (P = 0.001), indicating that estrogen can alter estrogenic and androgenic signaling in adipose tissue. The results highlighted in this study demonstrate important depot-dependent differences in the sensitivity of adipose tissues to sex hormones between visceral and subcutaneous depots that could be related to metabolic situations observed in response to sex hormones.

Strategies to Address Infection Prevention and Treatment in the Reduced Inflammatory Milieu of Irrigated Open Wound

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-10-01

Wicklund, BS, Toni Meglitsch • Unpaid Personnel: Theerawit Hongnaparak M.D. – Dr. Hongnaparak is an orthopaedic surgeon from Thailand that...ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: DoD Hypothesis Development Grant for funding this study, and Toni Meglitsch for expert technical assistance. Appendix...J.C. (2010). Robbins and cotran pathologic basis of disease 8e. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders. Supporting Data 1 - Subject Initial Whole Blood

The concept of branding: is it relevant to nursing?

PubMed

Dominiak, Mary C

2004-10-01

This concept exploration examines branding and its relevance to nursing. Branding is used to differentiate products through use of symbols. The symbols are the brands that are designed to communicate the value of products. Nursing has had many identifying symbols, such as the nurse's cap and the white uniform, but these symbols have failed to clearly communicate the essence of nursing. Lack of a distinct nursing brand has led to confusion about the discipline. The Roy adaptation model provides a view of branding as a process for clearly defining the profession, improving its image, and differentiating its role within the healthcare milieu.

Improving the public house in Britain, 1920-40: Sir Sydney Nevile and "social work".

PubMed

Mutch, Alistair

2010-01-01

The "improved public house" movement in the inter-war years was a central part of the shift towards retailing by the brewing industry. An important part of the reform movement was the alliance between certain brewers, notably Whitbread, and "social workers", particularly those associated with the University Settlement movement in London. Using the papers of Sydney Nevile, the importance of a particular social milieu is outlined, calling into question attempts to align the movement to improve public houses with transatlantic Progressivism. Rather, this alliance drew upon longstanding English traditions of public service and religious affiliation amongst a fraction of the gentry.

Intergenerational transmission of traumatization: Theoretical framework and implications for prevention.

PubMed

Lang, Ariel J; Gartstein, Maria A

2018-01-01

Intergenerational transmission of traumatization (ITT) occurs when traumatized parents have offspring with increased risk for emotional and behavioral problems. Although fetal exposure to the maternal biological milieu is known to be one factor in ITT, PTSD-driven parent-child interactions represent an additional important and potentially modifiable contributor. The Perinatal Interactional Model of ITT presented herein proposes that PTSD leads to social learning and suboptimal parent-child interactions, which undermine child regulatory capacity and increase distress, largely explaining poor social-emotional outcomes for offspring of parents with PTSD. Psychosocial intervention, particularly when delivered early in pregnancy, holds the possibility of disrupting ITT.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Perspectives From Orthopedic Surgery.

PubMed

Campbell, Kevin J; Louie, Philip K; Khorsand, Derek A; Frisch, Nicholas B; Gerlinger, Tad L; Levine, Brett R

2018-05-01

Orthopedic surgeons are tasked with treating complex patients while employing critical surgical skills, clinical knowledge, and new technologies. The constant inundation of information, coupled with hours in the hospital setting, provides unique perspectives on various aspects of how health care is delivered, thereby creating a milieu ripe for innovation. The rigors of an orthopedic career make it challenging for physicians to translate an idea into a great product. Through the authors' experiences at a tertiary orthopedic practice, they review the process of taking an idea from concept to fruition. [Orthopedics. 2018; 41(3):135-140.]. Copyright 2018, SLACK Incorporated.

Promoting strengths, prevention, empowerment, and community change through organizational development: lessons for research, theory, and practice.

PubMed

Evans, Scotney D; Prilleltensky, Ora; McKenzie, Adrine; Prilleltensky, Isaac; Nogueras, Debbie; Huggins, Corinne; Mescia, Nick

2011-01-01

SPEC Learning and Changing by Doing is a three-year, action research, and organizational change project designed to ultimately promote social justice and well-being in the community. SPEC is an acronym that stands for Strengths, Prevention, Empowerment, and Community Change. The project consists of five organizations tackling internal organizational change in order to better promote justice and well-being in their respective constituencies. In this article we present a formative evaluation of this multicase study of organizational change in human services. This article contributes to the empirical and theoretical literature on organizational change in the nonprofit human service milieu.

["My Mirra, my world." Mirra Birens-Eitingon as a key to her husband Max Eitingon's persona].

PubMed

Ginor, Isabella; Remez, Gideon

2015-01-01

New reseach in Russia, Germany and Israel has revealed the complex and multifaceted figure of Mirra Eitingon (1877-1947), the wife for 31 years of Dr. Max Eitingon. Her character and her background in the Russian-Jewish intelligentsia and theatrical milieu provided a lifelong inspiration for Max in his many cultural interests as well as in his psychoanalytic activities, in Berlin and later in Jerusalem. His devotion to Mirra as well as to her two sons from previous marriages (one of them was the leading Soviet nuclear physicist Yuli Khariton) also highlight Max's own generosity and kindness.

Complex Care Options for Patients With Advanced Heart Failure Approaching End of Life.

PubMed

Wordingham, Sara E; McIlvennan, Colleen K; Dionne-Odom, J Nicholas; Swetz, Keith M

2016-02-01

Care for patients with advanced cardiac disease continues to evolve in a complex milieu of therapeutic options, advanced technological interventions, and efforts at improving patient-centered care and shared decision-making. Despite improvements in quality of life and survival with these interventions, optimal supportive care across the advanced illness trajectory remains diverse and heterogeneous. Herein, we outline challenges in prognostication, communication, and caregiving in advanced heart failure and review the unique needs of patients who experience frequent hospitalizations, require chronic home inotropic support, and who have implantable cardioverter-defibrillators and mechanical circulatory support in situ, to name a few.

Engine out of the Chassis: Cell-Free Protein Synthesis and its Uses

PubMed Central

Rosenblum, Gabriel; Cooperman, Barry S.

2013-01-01

The translation machinery is the engine of life. Extracting the cytoplasmic milieu from a cell affords a lysate capable of producing proteins in concentrations reaching tens of micromolar. Such lysates, derivable from a variety of cells, allow the facile addition and subtraction of components that are directly or indirectly related to the translation machinery and/or the over-expressed protein. The flexible nature of such cell-free expression systems, when coupled with high throughput monitoring, can be especially suitable for protein engineering studies, allowing one to bypass multiple steps typically required using conventional in vivo protein expression. PMID:24161673

In vivo veritas, in vitro artificia.

PubMed

Matarese, Giuseppe; La Cava, Antonio; Horvath, Tamas L

2012-08-01

Recently, the understanding of dynamic cellular changes that occur in vivo has advanced significantly, both at the extracellular and intracellular levels. These changes might fluctuate with daily, circadian, weekly, or monthly intervals, and the approaches used to understand these changing conditions in vitro should parallel in vivo studies. In addition, the in vitro milieu should be optimized and better defined, so that artifacts due to in vitro culture systems would not pose dangers for the proper interpretation of results. In this article, we discuss some of these issues and propose solutions. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A mini-review of TAT-MyoD fused proteins: state of the art and problems to solve.

PubMed

Patruno, Marco; Melotti, Luca; Gomiero, Chiara; Sacchetto, Roberta; Topel, Ohad; Martinello, Tiziana

2017-12-05

The transcriptional activator TAT is a small peptide essential for viral replication and possesses the property of entering the cells from the extracellular milieu, acting as a membrane shuttle. In order to safely differentiate cells an innovative methodology, based on the fusion of transcription factors and the TAT sequence, is discussed in this short review. In several studies, it has been demonstrated that TAT protein can be observed in the cell nucleus after few hours from the inoculation although its way of action is not fully understood. However, further studies will be necessary to develop this methodology for clinical purposes.

Stopping the culture of workplace incivility in nursing.

PubMed

Khadjehturian, Rachele E

2012-12-01

Workplace incivility (WI) continues to hamper professional nursing practice, patient care, and the health of nurses who encounter this phenomenon in their workplace. This article provides an exemplar of WI experienced by a new nurse when a more seasoned nurse uses humiliation, intimidation, and angry verbal abuse to accuse the novice nurse in the presence of coworkers and patients that she failed to provide essential nursing care to a challenging patient. Nurses are reminded that open communication among coworkers will help minimize the occurrence of WI, encourage a supportive milieu in the unit, and ensure the safety of patients, family, and staff.

The Five Ps of Acute Ischemic Stroke Treatment: Parenchyma, Pipes, Perfusion, Penumbra, and Prevention of Complications

PubMed Central

Felberg, Robert A.; Naidech, Andrew

2003-01-01

Stroke is a treatable disease. Despite the therapeutic nihilism of the past, the advent of thrombolysis has changed the way stroke treatment is approached. Acute ischemic stroke is a challenging and heterogeneous disease, and treatment must be based on an understanding of the underlying pathophysiology of ischemia. Interventions are designed to improve neuronal salvage and outcome. The underlying tenets of stroke therapy focus on the brain parenchyma, arterial flow (pipes), perfusion, the ischemic milieu or penumbra, and prevention of complications. This article focuses on the practical issues of ischemic stroke care with a brief review of supporting literature. PMID:22470250

Balneotherapy in rheumatic diseases--an overview of novel and known aspects.

PubMed

Lange, U; Müller-Ladner, U; Schmidt, K L

2006-04-01

Balneotherapeutic applications to treat rheumatic diseases have a long-term tradition and are based on established scientific principles, and the majority of rheumatic diseases most frequently include balneotherapy. However, as other therapeutic strategies, balneological interventions require scientific proof of their effect and efficacy. Notably, recent studies providing evidence of the thermic and chemical effects on the immune system and cytokine milieu have enforced the revival of the traditional balneological interventions. This review provides an overview of the known as well as the novel aspects of balneotherapy and their clinical relevance in the treatment of rheumatic diseases.

Evaluation d'un ecosysteme pastoral sahelien: Apport de la geomatique (Oursi, Burkina Faso)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kabore, Seraphine Sawadogo

L'objectif principal de cette recherche est la mise au point d'une architecture d'integration de donnees socio-bio-geographiques et de donnees satellitales dans un Systeme d'Information Geographique (SIG) en vue d'une aide a la prise de decisions dans un environnement semi-aride au nord du Burkina Faso. Elle repond a la question fondamentale de l'interpretation des effets des facteurs climatiques et socioeconomiques sur le milieu pastoral. La recherche s'est appuyee sur plusieurs hypotheses de travail: possibilite d'utilisation de modele de simulation, d'approche multicritere et de donnees de teledetection dans un cadre de systeme d'information geographique. L'evolution spatiotemporelle des parametres de productivite du milieu a ete evaluee par approche dynamique selon le modele de Wu et al. (1996) qui modelise les interactions entre le climat, le milieu physique, le vegetal et l'animal pour mieux quantifier la biomasse primaire. A ce modele, quatre parametres ont ete integres par approche floue et multicritere afin de prendre en compte la dimension socioeconomique de la productivite pastorale (apport majeur de la recherche): la sante, l'education, l'agriculture et l'eau. La teledetection (imagerie SPOT) a permis de definir la production primaire a partir de laquelle les simulations ont ete realisees sur 10 annees. Les resultats obtenus montrent une bonne correlation entre biomasse primaire in situ et celle calculee pour les deux modeles, avec toutefois une meilleure efficacite du modele modifie (4 fois plus) dans les zones de forte productivite ou l'on note un taux de surexploitation agricole eleve. A cause de la variabilite spatiale de la production primaire in situ, les erreurs des resultats de simulation (8 a 11%) sont acceptables et montrent la pertinence de l'approche grace a l'utilisation des SIG pour la spatialisation et l'integration des differents parametres des modeles. Les types de production secondaire preconises (production de lait pendant 7 mois ou

Protection of vascular endothelial cells from high glucose-induced cytotoxicity by emodin.

PubMed

Gao, Yun; Zhang, Jun; Li, Guilin; Xu, Hong; Yi, Yun; Wu, Qin; Song, Miaomiao; Bee, Yong Mong; Huang, Liping; Tan, Mengxia; Liang, Shangdong; Li, GuoDong

2015-03-01

Induction of endothelial cytotoxicity by hyperglycemia in diabetes has been widely accepted. Emodin is a natural anthraquinone in rhubarb used for treatment of diabetes, but its mechanism of action is not fully understood. This study aimed to examine the potential beneficial effects of emodin on endothelial cytotoxicity caused by high glucose milieu. Culture of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) with high concentrations of glucose resulted in damage to the cells, leading to decreased formazan products by 14-27%, reduced DNA contents by 12-19%, and increased hypodiploid apoptosis by 40-109%. These adverse effects of high glucose could be prevented to a large extent by co-culture with 3 μM of emodin which per se did not affect HUVECs viability. In addition, CCL5 expression of HUVECs cultured in high glucose medium was significantly elevated at both mRNA and protein levels, an effect abolished after treatment with emodin. Moreover, the enhanced adhesion of monocytes to HUVECs (2.1-2.2 fold over control) and elevated chemotaxis activities (2.3-2.4 fold over control) in HUVECs cultured in high glucose medium were completely reversed by emodin. Emodin also suppressed activation of p38 MAPK and ERK1/2 due to high glucose. Our data demonstrated that endothelial cytotoxicity occurred clearly when HUVECs were exposed to high glucose milieu and emodin was able to alleviate the impairments. The protective effects of emodin might be related to the inhibition of CCL5 expression and subsequent cell stress/inflammatory events possibly mediated by activation of MAPK signaling pathways. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Expression profiling in progressive stages of fumarate-hydratase deficiency: the contribution of metabolic changes to tumorigenesis.

PubMed

Ashrafian, Houman; O'Flaherty, Linda; Adam, Julie; Steeples, Violetta; Chung, Yuen-Li; East, Phil; Vanharanta, Sakari; Lehtonen, Heli; Nye, Emma; Hatipoglu, Emine; Miranda, Melroy; Howarth, Kimberley; Shukla, Deepa; Troy, Helen; Griffiths, John; Spencer-Dene, Bradley; Yusuf, Mohammed; Volpi, Emanuela; Maxwell, Patrick H; Stamp, Gordon; Poulsom, Richard; Pugh, Christopher W; Costa, Barbara; Bardella, Chiara; Di Renzo, Maria Flavia; Kotlikoff, Michael I; Launonen, Virpi; Aaltonen, Lauri; El-Bahrawy, Mona; Tomlinson, Ian; Pollard, Patrick J

2010-11-15

Hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell carcinoma (HLRCC) is caused by mutations in the Krebs cycle enzyme fumarate hydratase (FH). It has been proposed that "pseudohypoxic" stabilization of hypoxia-inducible factor-α (HIF-α) by fumarate accumulation contributes to tumorigenesis in HLRCC. We hypothesized that an additional direct consequence of FH deficiency is the establishment of a biosynthetic milieu. To investigate this hypothesis, we isolated primary mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) lines from Fh1-deficient mice. As predicted, these MEFs upregulated Hif-1α and HIF target genes directly as a result of FH deficiency. In addition, detailed metabolic assessment of these MEFs confirmed their dependence on glycolysis, and an elevated rate of lactate efflux, associated with the upregulation of glycolytic enzymes known to be associated with tumorigenesis. Correspondingly, Fh1-deficient benign murine renal cysts and an advanced human HLRCC-related renal cell carcinoma manifested a prominent and progressive increase in the expression of HIF-α target genes and in genes known to be relevant to tumorigenesis and metastasis. In accord with our hypothesis, in a variety of different FH-deficient tissues, including a novel murine model of Fh1-deficient smooth muscle, we show a striking and progressive upregulation of a tumorigenic metabolic profile, as manifested by increased PKM2 and LDHA protein. Based on the models assessed herein, we infer that that FH deficiency compels cells to adopt an early, reversible, and progressive protumorigenic metabolic milieu that is reminiscent of that driving the Warburg effect. Targets identified in these novel and diverse FH-deficient models represent excellent potential candidates for further mechanistic investigation and therapeutic metabolic manipulation in tumors. Copyright © 2010 AACR.

Co-evolution of proteins and solutions: protein adaptation versus cytoprotective micromolecules and their roles in marine organisms.

PubMed

Yancey, Paul H; Siebenaller, Joseph F

2015-06-01

Organisms experience a wide range of environmental factors such as temperature, salinity and hydrostatic pressure, which pose challenges to biochemical processes. Studies on adaptations to such factors have largely focused on macromolecules, especially intrinsic adaptations in protein structure and function. However, micromolecular cosolutes can act as cytoprotectants in the cellular milieu to affect biochemical function and they are now recognized as important extrinsic adaptations. These solutes, both inorganic and organic, have been best characterized as osmolytes, which accumulate to reduce osmotic water loss. Singly, and in combination, many cosolutes have properties beyond simple osmotic effects, e.g. altering the stability and function of proteins in the face of numerous stressors. A key example is the marine osmolyte trimethylamine oxide (TMAO), which appears to enhance water structure and is excluded from peptide backbones, favoring protein folding and stability and counteracting destabilizers like urea and temperature. Co-evolution of intrinsic and extrinsic adaptations is illustrated with high hydrostatic pressure in deep-living organisms. Cytosolic and membrane proteins and G-protein-coupled signal transduction in fishes under pressure show inhibited function and stability, while revealing a number of intrinsic adaptations in deep species. Yet, intrinsic adaptations are often incomplete, and those fishes accumulate TMAO linearly with depth, suggesting a role for TMAO as an extrinsic 'piezolyte' or pressure cosolute. Indeed, TMAO is able to counteract the inhibitory effects of pressure on the stability and function of many proteins. Other cosolutes are cytoprotective in other ways, such as via antioxidation. Such observations highlight the importance of considering the cellular milieu in biochemical and cellular adaptation. © 2015. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

Addressing Smoking in Supported Residential Facilities for People with Severe Mental Illness: Has Any Progress Been Achieved?

PubMed Central

Lawn, Sharon; Lucas, Teri

2016-01-01

Background: Smoking rates for people with severe mental illness have remained high despite significant declines in smoking rates in the general population, particularly for residents of community supported residential facilities (SRFs) where smoking has been largely neglected and institutionalized. Methods: Two studies undertaken 10 years apart (2000 and 2010) with SRFs in Adelaide, Australia looked at historical trends to determine whether any progress has been made to address smoking for this population. The first study was ethnographic and involved narrative description and analysis of the social milieu of smoking following multiple observations of smoking behaviours in two SRFs. The second study involved an eight-week smoking cessation group program providing tailored support and free nicotine replacement therapy to residents across six SRFs. Changes in smoking behaviours were measured using pre and post surveys with residents, with outcomes verified by also seeking SRF staff and smoking cessation group facilitator qualitative feedback and reflection on their observations of residents and the setting. Results: The culture of smoking in mental health SRFs is a complex part of the social milieu of these settings. There appears to have been little change in smoking behaviours of residents and attitudes and support responses by staff of SRFs since 2000 despite smoking rates declining in the general community. Tailored smoking cessation group programs for this population were well received and did help SRF residents to quit or cut down their smoking. They did challenge staff negative attitudes to residents’ capacity to smoke less or quit. Conclusions: A more systematic approach that addresses SRF regulations, smoke-free policies, staff attitudes and training, and consistent smoking cessation support to residents is needed. PMID:27735881

MCAM, as a novel receptor for S100A8/A9, mediates progression of malignant melanoma through prominent activation of NF-κB and ROS formation upon ligand binding.

PubMed

Ruma, I Made Winarsa; Putranto, Endy Widya; Kondo, Eisaku; Murata, Hitoshi; Watanabe, Masami; Huang, Peng; Kinoshita, Rie; Futami, Junichiro; Inoue, Yusuke; Yamauchi, Akira; Sumardika, I Wayan; Youyi, Chen; Yamamoto, Ken-Ichi; Nasu, Yasutomo; Nishibori, Masahiro; Hibino, Toshihiko; Sakaguchi, Masakiyo

2016-08-01

The dynamic interaction between tumor cells and their microenvironment induces a proinflammatory milieu that drives cancer development and progression. The S100A8/A9 complex has been implicated in chronic inflammation, tumor development, and progression. The cancer microenvironment contributes to the up-regulation of this protein complex in many invasive tumors, which is associated with the formation of pre-metastatic niches and poor prognosis. Changing adhesive preference of cancer cells is at the core of the metastatic process that governs the reciprocal interactions of cancer cells with the extracellular matrices and neighboring stromal cells. Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) have been confirmed to have high-level expression in various highly invasive tumors. The expression and function of CAMs are profoundly influenced by the extracellular milieu. S100A8/A9 mediates its effects by binding to cell surface receptors, such as heparan sulfate, TLR4 and RAGE on immune and tumor cells. RAGE has recently been identified as an adhesion molecule and has considerably high identity and similarity to ALCAM and MCAM, which are frequently over-expressed on metastatic malignant melanoma cells. In this study, we demonstrated that ALCAM and MCAM also function as S100A8/A9 receptors as does RAGE and induce malignant melanoma progression by NF-κB activation and ROS formation. Notably, MCAM not only activated NF-κB more prominently than ALCAM and RAGE did but also mediated intracellular signaling for the formation of lung metastasis. MCAM is known to be involved in malignant melanoma development and progression through several mechanisms. Therefore, MCAM is a potential effective target in malignant melanoma treatment.

Does the extracorporeal circulation worsen anemia in hemodialysis patients? Investigation with advanced microscopes of red blood cells drawn at the beginning and end of dialysis

PubMed Central

Stamopoulos, Dimosthenis; Bakirtzi, Nerantzoula; Manios, Efthymios; Grapsa, Eirini

2013-01-01

Background In hemodialysis (HD) patients, anemia relates to three main factors: insufficient production of erythropoietin; impaired management of iron; and decreased lifespan of red blood cells (RBCs). The third factor can relate to structural deterioration of RBCs due to extrinsic (extracorporeal circuit; biochemical activation and/or mechanical stress during dialysis) and intrinsic (uremic milieu; biochemical interference of the RBC membrane constituents with toxins) mechanisms. Herein, we evaluate information accessed with advanced imaging techniques at the cellular level. Methods Atomic force and scanning electron microscopes were employed to survey intact RBCs (iRBCs) of seven HD patients in comparison to seven healthy donors. The extrinsic factor was investigated by contrasting pre- and post-HD samples. The intrinsic environment was investigated by comparing the microscopy data with the clinical ones. Results The iRBC membranes of the enrolled HD patients were overpopulated with orifice-like (high incidence; typical size within 100–1,000 nm) and crevice-like (low incidence; typical size within 500–4,000 nm) defects that exhibited a statistically significant (P < 0.05) relative increase (+55% and +350%, respectively) in respect to healthy donors. The relative variation of the orifice and crevice indices (mean population of orifices and crevices per top membrane surface) between pre- and post-HD was not statistically significant (−3.3% and +4.5%, respectively). The orifice index correlates with the concentrations of urea, calcium, and phosphorus, but not, however, with that of creatinine. Conclusion Extracorporeal circulation is not detrimental to the structural integrity of RBC membranes. Uremic milieu is a candidate cause of RBC membrane deterioration, which possibly worsens anemia. PMID:24143093

Electrodynamic pressure modulation of protein stability in cosolvents.

PubMed

Damodaran, Srinivasan

2013-11-19

Cosolvents affect structural stability of proteins in aqueous solutions. A clear understanding of the mechanism by which cosolvents impact protein stability is critical to understanding protein folding in a biological milieu. In this study, we investigated the Lifshitz-van der Waals dispersion interaction of seven different solutes with nine globular proteins and report that in an aqueous medium the structure-stabilizing solutes exert a positive electrodynamic pressure, whereas the structure-destabilizing solutes exert a negative electrodynamic pressure on the proteins. The net increase in the thermal denaturation temperature (ΔTd) of a protein in 1 M solution of various solutes was linearly related to the electrodynamic pressure (PvdW) between the solutes and the protein. The slope of the PvdW versus ΔTd plots was protein-dependent. However, we find a positive linear relationship (r(2) = 0.79) between the slope (i.e., d(ΔTd)/dPvdW) and the adiabatic compressibility (βs) of the proteins. Together, these results clearly indicate that the Lifshitz's dispersion forces are inextricably involved in solute-induced stabilization/destabilization of globular proteins. The positive and/or negative electrodynamic pressure generated by the solute-protein interaction across the water medium seems to be the fundamental mechanism by which solutes affect protein stability. This is at variance with the existing preferential hydration concept. The implication of these results is significant in the sense that, in addition to the hydrophobic effect that drives protein folding, the electrodynamic forces between the proteins and solutes in the biological milieu also might play a role in the folding process as well as in the stability of the folded state.

Injury and subsequent regeneration of muscles for activation of local innate immunity to facilitate the development and relapse of autoimmune myositis in C57BL/6 mice.

PubMed

Kimura, Naoki; Hirata, Shinya; Miyasaka, Nobuyuki; Kawahata, Kimito; Kohsaka, Hitoshi

2015-04-01

To determine whether injury and regeneration of the skeletal muscles induce an inflammatory milieu that facilitates the development and relapse of autoimmune myositis. The quadriceps of C57BL/6 mice were injured with bupivacaine hydrochloride (BPVC) and evaluated histologically. Macrophages and regenerating myofibers in the treated muscles and differentiating C2C12 myotubes were examined for cytokine expression. Mice were immunized with C protein fragments at the base of the tail and in the right hind footpads (day 0) to evoke systemic anti-C protein immunity and to induce local myositis in the right hind limbs. The contralateral quadriceps muscles were injured with BPVC or phosphate buffered saline (PBS) on day 7 or after spontaneous regression of myositis (day 42). The quadriceps muscle in nonimmunized mice was injured with BPVC on day 7. The muscles were examined histologically 14 days after treatment. The BPVC-injured muscles had macrophage infiltration most abundantly at 3 days after the injection, with emergence of regenerating fibers from day 5. The macrophages expressed inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin-1β, and CCL2. Regenerating myofibers and C2C12 myotubes also expressed the cytokines. The BPVC-injected muscles from nonimmunized mice had regenerating myofibers with resolved cell infiltration 14 days after treatment. In mice preimmunized with C protein fragments, the muscles injected with BPVC on day 7 as well as on day 42, but not those injected with PBS, had myositis accompanied by CD8+ T cell infiltration. Injury and regeneration could set up an inflammatory milieu in the muscles and facilitate the development and relapse of autoimmune myositis. Copyright © 2015 by the American College of Rheumatology.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Adipose Stromal Vascular Fraction Cells Promote Alternative Activation Macrophages to Repair Tissue Damage.

PubMed

Bowles, Annie C; Wise, Rachel M; Gerstein, Brittany Y; Thomas, Robert C; Ogelman, Roberto; Febbo, Isabella; Bunnell, Bruce A

2017-10-01

The pathogenesis of many diseases is driven by the interactions between helper T (T H ) cells and macrophages. The phenotypes of these cells are functional dichotomies that are persuaded according to the surrounding milieu. In both multiple sclerosis and the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model, T H 1 and T H 17 cells propagate autoimmune signaling and inflammation in the peripheral lymphoid tissues. In turn, this proinflammatory repertoire promotes the classical activation, formerly the M1-type, macrophages. Together, these cells infiltrate into the central nervous system (CNS) tissues and generate inflammatory and demyelinating lesions. Our most recent report demonstrated the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects of adipose stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cells and adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) that led to functional, immunological, and pathological improvements in the EAE model. Here, a deeper investigation revealed the induction of regulatory T cells and alternative activation, or M2-type, macrophages in the periphery followed by the presence of alternative activation macrophages, reduced cellular infiltrates, and attenuation of neuroinflammation in CNS tissues following intraperitoneal administration of these treatments. Spleens from treated EAE mice revealed diminished T H 1 and T H 17 cell activities and were markedly higher in the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10. Interestingly, SVF cells were more effective than ASCs at mediating these beneficial changes, which were attributed to their localization to the spleens after administration. Together, SVF cells rapidly and robustly attenuated the propagation of autoimmune signaling in the periphery that provided a permissive milieu in the CNS for repair and possibly regeneration. Stem Cells 2017;35:2198-2207. © 2017 AlphaMed Press.

Ambulatory-based education in internal medicine: current organization and implications for transformation. Results of a national survey of resident continuity clinic directors.

PubMed

Nadkarni, Mohan; Reddy, Siddharta; Bates, Carol K; Fosburgh, Blair; Babbott, Stewart; Holmboe, Eric

2011-01-01

Many have called for ambulatory training redesign in internal medicine (IM) residencies to increase primary care career outcomes. Many believe dysfunctional, clinic environments are a key barrier to meaningful ambulatory education, but little is actually known about the educational milieu of continuity clinics nationwide. We wished to describe the infrastructure and educational milieu at resident continuity clinics and assess clinic readiness to meet new IM-RRC requirements. National survey of ACGME accredited IM training programs. Directors of academic and community-based continuity clinics. Two hundred and twenty-one out of 365 (62%) of clinic directors representing 49% of training programs responded. Wide variation amongst continuity clinics in size, structure and educational organization exist. Clinics below the 25th percentile of total clinic sessions would not meet RRC-IM requirements for total number of clinic sessions. Only two thirds of clinics provided a longitudinal mentor. Forty-three percent of directors reported their trainees felt stressed in the clinic environment and 25% of clinic directors felt overwhelmed. The survey used self reported data and was not anonymous. A slight predominance of larger clinics and university based clinics responded. Data may not reflect changes to programs made since 2008. This national survey demonstrates that the continuity clinic experience varies widely across IM programs, with many sites not yet meeting new ACGME requirements. The combination of disadvantaged and ill patients with inadequately resourced clinics, stressed residents, and clinic directors suggests that many sites need substantial reorganization and institutional commitment.New paradigms, encouraged by ACGME requirement changes such as increased separation of inpatient and outpatient duties are needed to improve the continuity clinic experience.

CD73 Inhibition Shifts Cardiac Macrophage Polarization toward a Microbicidal Phenotype and Ameliorates the Outcome of Experimental Chagas Cardiomyopathy.

PubMed

Ponce, Nicolás Eric; Sanmarco, Liliana Maria; Eberhardt, Natalia; García, Mónica Cristina; Rivarola, Héctor Walter; Cano, Roxana Carolina; Aoki, Maria Pilar

2016-08-01

Increasing evidence demonstrates that generation of extracellular adenosine from ATP, which is hydrolyzed by the CD39/CD73 enzyme pair, attenuates the inflammatory response and deactivates macrophage antimicrobial mechanisms. Although CD73 is emerging as a critical pathway and therapeutic target in cardiovascular disorders, the involvement of this ectonucleotidase during myocardial infection has not been explored. Using a murine model of infection with Trypanosoma cruzi, the causal agent of Chagas cardiomyopathy, we observed a sudden switch from the classical M1 macrophage (microbicidal) phenotype toward an alternative M2 (repairing/anti-inflammatory) phenotype that occurred within the myocardium very shortly after BALB/c mice infection. The observed shift in M1/M2 rate correlated with the cardiac cytokine milieu. Considering that parasite persistence within myocardium is a necessary and sufficient condition for the development of the chronic myocarditis, we hypothesized that CD73 activity may counteract cardiac macrophage microbicidal polarization, rendering the local immune response less effective. In fact, a transient treatment with a specific CD73 inhibitor (adenosine 5'-α,β-methylene-diphosphate) enhanced the microbicidal M1 subset predominance, diminished IL-4- and IL-10-producing CD4(+) T cells, promoted a proinflammatory cytokine milieu, and reduced parasite load within the myocardium during the acute phase. As a direct consequence of these events, there was a reduction in serum levels of creatine kinase muscle-brain isoenzyme, a myocardial-specific injury marker, and an improvement in the electrocardiographic characteristics during the chronic phase. Our results demonstrate that this purinergic system drives the myocardial immune response postinfection and harbors a promising potential as a therapeutic target. Copyright © 2016 by The American Association of Immunologists, Inc.

Release mechanism of high mobility group nucleosome binding domain 1 from lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages.

PubMed

Murakami, Taisuke; Hu, Zhongshuang; Tamura, Hiroshi; Nagaoka, Isao

2016-04-01

Alarmins are identified as endogenous mediators that have potent immune-activating abilities. High mobility group nucleosome binding domain 1 (HMGN1), a highly conserved, non-histone chromosomal protein, which binds to the inner side of the nucleosomal DNA, regulates chromatin dynamics and transcription in cells. Furthermore, HMGN1 acts as a cytokine in the extracellular milieu by inducing the recruitment and maturation of antigen-presenting cells (dendritic cells) to enhance Th1-type antigen-specific immune responses. Thus, HMGN1 is expected to act as an alarmin, when released into the extracellular milieu. The present study investigated the release mechanism of HMGN1 from macrophages using mouse macrophage‑like RAW264.7 cells. The results indicated that HMGN1 was released from lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‑stimulated RAW264.7 cells, accompanied by cell death as assessed by the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Subsequently, the patterns of cell death involved in HMGN1 release from LPS‑stimulated RAW264.7 cells were determined using a caspase‑1 inhibitor, YVAD, and a necroptosis inhibitor, Nec‑1. YVAD and Nec‑1 did not alter LPS‑induced HMGN1 and LDH release, suggesting that pyroptosis (caspase‑1‑activated cell death) and necroptosis are not involved in the release of HMGN1 from LPS‑stimulated RAW264.7 cells. In addition, flow cytometric analysis indicated that LPS stimulation did not induce apoptosis but substantially augmented necrosis, as evidenced by staining with annexin V/propidium iodide. Together these findings suggest that HMGN1 is extracellularly released from LPS‑stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage‑like cells, accompanied by unprogrammed necrotic cell death but not pyroptosis, necroptosis or apoptosis.

New cation-exchange material based on a sulfonated 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene monomer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stéphan, O.; Schottland, P.; Le Gall, P.-Y.; Chevrot, C.

1998-06-01

The electrochemical oxidation, in aqueous medium, of a 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene monomer functionalized by a sulfonate group exhibiting cation-exchange properties, allows the synthesis of a new type of water-soluble material. In order to synthesize in water, by oxidative electropolymerization, polymer films of controlled thickness containing attached sulfonate groups, we have investigated the polymerization of the functionalized monomer in the presence of the unsubstituted one without supporting electrolyte. Using an equimolar mixture (0.01 mol/l) of both monomers, copolymers exhibiting cation exchange abilities have been synthesized. As an example, th easy incorporation of hexaamine-ruthenium(III) into one of these copolymers is briefly reported. L'oxydation électrochimique en milieu aqueux d'un monomère de type 3,4- éthylènedioxythiophène fonctionnalisé par un groupement sulfonate permet d'envisager la synthèse d'un nouveau type de polymère hydrosoluble. Afin d'obtenir électrochimiquement en milieu aqueux, un film de polymère d'épaisseur contrôlée contenant des groupements sulfonates, nous avons evisagé de polymériser ce monomère en présence de son homologue non substitué. En partant d'un mélange équimolaire (0.01 mol/l) des deux monomères et en l'absence d'électrolyte support, nous avons synthétisé un matériau possédant des propriétés d'échange de cations. A titre d'exemple, nous présentons brièvement l'incorporation d'un complexe hexaaminé du ruthénium(III) dans un de ces copolymères.

Development of a High-Throughput Screening Cancer Cell-Based Luciferase Refolding Assay for Identifying Hsp90 Inhibitors

PubMed Central

Sadikot, Takrima; Swink, Megan; Eskew, Jeffery D.; Brown, Douglas; Zhao, Huiping; Kusuma, Bhaskar R.; Rajewski, Roger A.; Blagg, Brian S. J.; Matts, Robert L.; Holzbeierlein, Jeffrey M.

2013-01-01

Abstract The 90 kDa heat-shock protein (Hsp90) and other cochaperones allow for proper folding of nascent or misfolded polypeptides. Cancer cells exploit these chaperones by maintaining the stability of mutated and misfolded oncoproteins and allowing them to evade proteosomal degradation. Inhibiting Hsp90 is an attractive strategy for cancer therapy, as the concomitant degradation of multiple oncoproteins may lead to effective anti-neoplastic agents. Unfortunately, early clinical trials have been disappointing with N-terminal Hsp90 inhibitors, as it is unclear whether the problems that plague current Hsp90 inhibitors in clinical trials are related to on-target or off-target activity. One approach to overcome these pitfalls is to identify structurally diverse scaffolds that improve Hsp90 inhibitory activity in the cancer cell milieu. Utilizing a panel of cancer cell lines that express luciferase, we have designed an in-cell Hsp90-dependent luciferase refolding assay. The assay was optimized using previously identified Hsp90 inhibitors and experimental novobiocin analogues against prostate, colon, and lung cancer cell lines. This assay exhibits good interplate precision (% CV), a signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) of ≥7, and an approximate Z-factor ranging from 0.5 to 0.7. Novobiocin analogues that revealed activity in this assay were examined via western blot experiments for client protein degradation, a hallmark of Hsp90 inhibition. Subsequently, a pilot screen was conducted using the Prestwick library, and two compounds, biperiden and ethoxyquin, revealed significant activity. Here, we report the development of an in-cell Hsp90-dependent luciferase refolding assay that is amenable across cancer cell lines for the screening of inhibitors in their specific milieu. PMID:24127661

Network interactions within the canine intrinsic cardiac nervous system: implications for reflex control of regional cardiac function

PubMed Central

Beaumont, Eric; Salavatian, Siamak; Southerland, E Marie; Vinet, Alain; Jacquemet, Vincent; Armour, J Andrew; Ardell, Jeffrey L

2013-01-01

The aims of the study were to determine how aggregates of intrinsic cardiac (IC) neurons transduce the cardiovascular milieu versus responding to changes in central neuronal drive and to determine IC network interactions subsequent to induced neural imbalances in the genesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). Activity from multiple IC neurons in the right atrial ganglionated plexus was recorded in eight anaesthetized canines using a 16-channel linear microelectrode array. Induced changes in IC neuronal activity were evaluated in response to: (1) focal cardiac mechanical distortion; (2) electrical activation of cervical vagi or stellate ganglia; (3) occlusion of the inferior vena cava or thoracic aorta; (4) transient ventricular ischaemia, and (5) neurally induced AF. Low level activity (ranging from 0 to 2.7 Hz) generated by 92 neurons was identified in basal states, activities that displayed functional interconnectivity. The majority (56%) of IC neurons so identified received indirect central inputs (vagus alone: 25%; stellate ganglion alone: 27%; both: 48%). Fifty per cent transduced the cardiac milieu responding to multimodal stressors applied to the great vessels or heart. Fifty per cent of IC neurons exhibited cardiac cycle periodicity, with activity occurring primarily in late diastole into isovolumetric contraction. Cardiac-related activity in IC neurons was primarily related to direct cardiac mechano-sensory inputs and indirect autonomic efferent inputs. In response to mediastinal nerve stimulation, most IC neurons became excessively activated; such network behaviour preceded and persisted throughout AF. It was concluded that stochastic interactions occur among IC local circuit neuronal populations in the control of regional cardiac function. Modulation of IC local circuit neuronal recruitment may represent a novel approach for the treatment of cardiac disease, including atrial arrhythmias. PMID:23818689

Self psychology conceptualization of postpsychotic depression and recovery among paranoid schizophrenic patients.

PubMed

Potik, David

2014-01-01

Many psychoanalysts have offered innovative ideas on the treatment of schizophrenic patients, but none on postpsychotic depression. The author presents a psychoanalytic conceptualization of postpsychotic depression based on Kohut's ideas regarding the development of normal and pathological grandiosity. The main premise is that postpsychotic depression stems from the loss of psychotic grandiosity, and that it is the psychological reaction to the loss of omnipotent identity whose role it is to provide an alternative reality. Through near-experience connectedness, clinicians and practitioners in the psychiatric rehabilitation field can facilitate an empathic milieu in which new mental constructs can be established and new behavioral skills can be learned.

[Teenagers and crime: a dark day of justice].

PubMed

Rossi, Gustavo Pablo

2013-01-01

The methods of intervention and/or treatment of children/teenagers under 18 years old who are accused or found guilty of crimes are analyzed taking into consideration multidisciplinary intervention tools, especially those including any kind of 'psy' outpatient care. These programs, which are usually deployed in the social milieu, involve a conflictive junction between the fields of Law and Mental Health. It shall be required to review the different social responses to such children and teenagers and the current state of legal discussions in order to reflect upon the singular inclusion of the therapeutic approach to these complex contexts, where the 'socio-educational' aspect has occupied a substantial position.

Membrane Transport across Polarized Epithelia.

PubMed

Garcia-Castillo, Maria Daniela; Chinnapen, Daniel J-F; Lencer, Wayne I

2017-09-01

Polarized epithelial cells line diverse surfaces throughout the body forming selective barriers between the external environment and the internal milieu. To cross these epithelial barriers, large solutes and other cargoes must undergo transcytosis, an endocytic pathway unique to polarized cell types, and significant for the development of cell polarity, uptake of viral and bacterial pathogens, transepithelial signaling, and immunoglobulin transport. Here, we review recent advances in our knowledge of the transcytotic pathway for proteins and lipids. We also discuss briefly the promise of harnessing the molecules that undergo transcytosis as vehicles for clinical applications in drug delivery. Copyright © 2017 Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press; all rights reserved.

Place shaping to create health and wellbeing using health impact assessment: health geography applied to develop evidence-based practice.

PubMed

Learmonth, Alyson; Curtis, Sarah

2013-11-01

In a political milieu where there is pressure towards localised and participative decisionmaking, and an environment of global recession and environmental degradation, it is crucial that population health considerations inform strategic decisions. The paper puts forward 'place shaping to create health and wellbeing' as a strategic tool, drawing on ideas that are fundamental in health geography, and argues that this is an important emerging application of Health Impact Assessment (HIA), as part of evidence-based practice. These views developed primarily from case study work in the North East of England aiming to enhance health and wellbeing in a population with significant health disadvantages. © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Post-Darwinian Controversies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moore, James R.

1981-11-01

Preface; Introduction: the terrain of revision; Part I. Historians and Historiography: 1. Draper, White, and the military metaphor; 2. Politics, polemics, and the military milieu; 3. Warfare's toll in historical interpretation; 4. Towards a non-violent history; Part II. Darwinism and Evolutionary Thought: 5. Darwinism in transition; 6. The challenge of Lamarckian evolution; 7. The vogue of Herbert Spencer; 8. Darwinism and Neo-Darwinism; Part III. Theology and Evolution: 9. Christian anti-Darwinism: the realm of certainty and fixity; 10. Christian Darwinism: the role of providence and progress; 11. Christian Darwinism: the relevance of orthodox theology; 12. Darwinism and Darwinisticism in theology; Conclusion; Notes to the text; Bibliography; Index.

How Place and Audience Matter: Perspectives on Mathematics Plural Identities from Late 1950s French and English Middle School Textbooks.

PubMed

Radtka, Catherine

2016-12-01

Argument In this paper, I argue that studying school textbooks is a fruitful way to investigate mathematical conceptions in different national contexts. These sources give access to the written production of an extended mathematical milieu whose members write for various audiences. By studying the case of late 1950s French and English textbooks issued for a growing audience of 11- to 15-year-old pupils, I show that a plurality of conceptions was projected at the time onto pupils and their teachers in both national contexts. I link this diversity to contemporaneous debates regarding mathematics teaching and argue that textbooks themselves have to be considered as active agents of such debates.

[The workshop la Petite Rouge inc., a ressource in a rural environnement.].

PubMed

Deslongchamps, N

1981-01-01

The Atelier de la Petite Rouge Inc. is a resource established in a rural zone of the Ouataouais region in 1980. Up until July 1981, thanks to temporary subsidiaries, it offered services to sixty old people living to eight foster homes. These foster families are attached to the Pierre Janet psychiatric hospital centre in Hull and take people with mental health problems. The objective of the workshop is to encourage social réintégration of these people into their new milieu. The workshop is currently negociating a permanent funding with the Ministry of Social Affairs, as well as an independent status in order to preserve its non-institutional character.

Family size, cognitive outcomes, and familial interaction in stable, two-parent families: United States, 1997-2002.

PubMed

Sandberg, John; Rafail, Patrick

2014-10-01

Measures of children's time use, particularly with parents and siblings, are used to evaluate three hypotheses in relation to the vocabulary and mathematical skills development: (1) the resource dilution hypothesis, which argues that parental and household resources are diluted in larger families; (2) the confluence hypothesis, which suggests that the intellectual milieu of families is lowered with additional children; and (3) the admixture ("no effect") hypothesis, which suggests that the negative relationship between family size and achievement is an artifact of cross-sectional research resulting from unobserved heterogeneity. Each hypothesis is tested using within-child estimates of change in cognitive scores over time with the addition of new children to families.

The impact of proton pump inhibitors on the human gastrointestinal microbiome.

PubMed

Freedberg, Daniel E; Lebwohl, Benjamin; Abrams, Julian A

2014-12-01

Potent gastric acid suppression using proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) is common in clinical practice but may have important effects on human health that are mediated through changes in the gastrointestinal microbiome. In the esophagus, PPIs change the normal bacterial milieu to decrease distal esophageal exposure to inflammatory gram-negative bacteria. In the stomach, PPIs alter the abundance and location of gastric Helicobacter pylori and other bacteria. In the small bowel, PPIs cause polymicrobial small bowel bacterial overgrowth and have been associated with the diagnosis of celiac disease. In the colon, PPIs associate with incident but not recurrent Clostridium difficile infection. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Idioms of Distress.

PubMed

Desai, Geetha; Chaturvedi, Santosh K

2017-08-01

The presentations of psychosocial distress and cultural conflicts are often bodily symptoms, especially in traditional societies and village backgrounds. These might not meet the criteria of the current psychiatric diagnostic systems. Sociocultural milieu contributes to the unique presentations of the stress in the form of idioms of distress. The latter are alternative modes of expressing distress and indicate manifestations of distress in relation to personal and cultural meaning. Health professionals often consider these as hysterical, functional or having functional overlays, and abnormal illness behaviors. Management of idioms of distress would need cultural competence and sensitivity. This article highlights the common idioms of distress in India with specific focus on bodily symptoms.