Stability of beta-titanium T-loop springs preactivated by gradual curvature.

PubMed

Caldas, Sergei Godeiro Fernandes Rabelo; Martins, Renato Parsekian; Araújo, Marcela Emílio de; Galvão, Marília Regalado; Silva Júnior, Roberto Soares da; Martins, Lídia Parsekian

2017-01-01

Evaluate changes in the force system of T-Loop Springs (TLS) preactivated by curvature, due to stress relaxation. Ninety TLSs measuring 6 x 10 mm, produced out with 0.017 x 0.025-in TMA® wire and preactived by gradual curvature, were randomly distributed into nine groups according to time point of evaluation. Group 1 was tested immediately after spring preactivation and stress relief, by trial activation. The other eight groups were tested after 24, 48 and 72 hours, 1, 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks, respectively. Using a moment transducer coupled to a digital extensometer indicator adapted to a universal testing machine, the amount of horizontal force, moment and moment-to-force ratios were recorded at every 0.5 mm of deactivation from 5 mm of the initial activation, in an interbracket distance of 23 mm. The horizontal forces decreased gradually among the groups (p< 0.001) and the moments showed a significant and slow decrease over time among the groups (p< 0.001). All groups produced similar M/F ratios (p= 0.532), with no influence of time. The TLSs preactivated by curvature suffered a gradual deformation over time, which affected the force system, specifically the moments, which affected the horizontal forces produced.

Gradual Hunterian ligation for infected prosthetic bypass.

PubMed

Egun, A; Slade, D; McCollum, C N

2000-04-01

To review gradual snare occlusion for the management of complex or recurrent graft infection. Medical records of patients treated with gradual snare occlusion following graft infection were reviewed for indication for operation, type of bypass and graft material used. In addition, infecting organism, grade of infection (Szilágyi) and outcome were recorded. Four femoropopliteal, two extra-anatomic (axillofemoral) and aortobifemoral bypasses were included in this study. All had chronic infection (Szilágyi grade III) with onset of 4 to 24 months and two of which were recurrent. The causative organisms were coagulase-negative staphylococci, Staphylococcus epidermidis and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in three patients, with no organism isolated in the remaining cases. There was no loss of limb following gradual snare occlusion but there was only one death due to aortic stump rupture 2 weeks later. Gradual snare occlusion is an alternative for the management of chronic or recurrent graft infection. Copyright 1999 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.

Electron-Ion Intensity Dropouts in Gradual Solar Energetic Particle Events during Solar Cycle 23

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, Lun C.

2017-09-01

Since the field-line mixing model of Giacalone et al. suggests that ion dropouts cannot happen in the “gradual” solar energetic particle (SEP) event because of the large size of the particle source region in the event, the observational evidence of ion dropouts in the gradual SEP event should challenge the model. We have searched for the presence of ion dropouts in the gradual SEP event during solar cycle 23. From 10 SEP events the synchronized occurrence of ion and electron dropouts is identified in 12 periods. Our main observational facts, including the mean width of electron-ion dropout periods being consistent with the solar wind correlation scale, during the dropout period the dominance of the slab turbulence component and the enhanced turbulence power parallel to the mean magnetic field, and the ion gyroradius dependence of the edge steepness in dropout periods, are all in support of the solar wind turbulence origin of dropout events. Also, our observation indicates that a wide longitude distribution of SEP events could be due to the increase of slab turbulence fraction with the increased longitude distance from the flare-associated active region.

Common functional variants of APOA5 and GCKR accumulate gradually in association with triglyceride increase in metabolic syndrome patients.

PubMed

Hadarits, Ferenc; Kisfali, Péter; Mohás, Márton; Maász, Anita; Duga, Balázs; Janicsek, Ingrid; Wittmann, István; Melegh, Béla

2012-02-01

The common functional variants of the apolipoprotein A5 (APOA5) and the glucokinase regulatory protein genes (GCKR) have been shown to associate with increased fasting triglyceride (TG) levels. Albeit the basic association has been extensively investigated in several populations of different origin, less is known about quantitative traits of them. In our study accumulation rates of four APOA5 (T-1131, IVS3 + G476A, T1259C and C56G) and two GCKR (C1337T and rs780094) functional SNPs were analyzed in patients stratified into four TG quartile groups. Randomly selected 325 metabolic syndrome patients were separated into four quartile (q) groups based on the TG levels as follows q1: TG <1.38 mmol/l; q2: 1.38-1.93 mmol/l; q3: 1.94-2.83 mmol/l; and q4: TG >2.83 mmol/l. We observed significant stepwise increase of prevalence rates of minor allele frequencies in the four plasma TG quartiles for three APOA5 SNPs: -1131C (q1: 4.94%; q2: 8.64%; q3: 11.6%; q4: 12.3%), IVS3 + 476A (q1: 4.32%; q2: 7.4%; q3: 10.36%; q4: 11.1%), and 1259C (q1: 4.94%; q2: 7.41%; q3: 10.4%; q4: 11.7%). The haplotype analysis revealed, that the frequency of APOA5*2 haplotype gradually increased in q2, q3 and q4 (q1: 9.87%; q2: 14.8%; q3: 18.3%; q4: 21%). The distribution of the homozygotes of the two analyzed GCKR variants resembled to the APOA5 pattern. Contrary to the hypothetically predictable linear association coming from the current knowledge about the APOA5 and GCKR functions, the findings presented here revealed a unique, TG raise dependent gradual accumulation of the functional variants of in MS patients. Thus, the findings of the current study serve indirect evidence for the existence of rare APOA5 and GCKR haplotypes in metabolic syndrome patients with higher TG levels, which contribute to the complex lipid metabolism alteration in this disease.

Evidence for Gradual External Reconnection Before Explosive Eruption of a Solar Filament

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sterling, Alphonse C.; Moore, Ronald L.

2004-01-01

We observe a slowly evolving quiet-region solar eruption of 1999 April 18, using extreme-ultraviolet (EUV) images from the EUV Imaging Telescope (EIT) on the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO) and soft X-ray images from the Soft X-ray Telescope (SXT) on Yohkoh. Using difference images, in which an early image is subtracted from later images, we examine dimmings and brightenings in the region for evidence of the eruption mechanism. A filament rose slowly at about 1 km/s for 6 hours before being rapidly ejected at about 16 km/s leaving flare brightenings and postflare loops in its wake. Magnetograms from the Michelson Doppler Imager (MDI) on SOHO show that the eruption occurred in a large quadrupolar magnetic region with the filament located on the neutral line of the quadrupole s central inner lobe between the inner two of the four polarity domains. In step with the slow rise, subtle EIT dimmings commence and gradually increase over the two polarity domains on one side of the filament, i.e., in some of the loops of one of the two sidelobes of the quadrupole. Concurrently, soft X-ray brightenings gradually increase in both sidelobes. Both of these effects suggest heating in the sidelobe magnetic arcades. which gradually increase over several hours before the fast eruption. Also, during the slow pre- eruption phase, SXT dimmings gradually increase in the feet and legs of the central lobe, indicating expansion of the central-lobe magnetic arcade enveloping the filament. During the rapid ejection. these dimmings rapidly grow in darkness and in area, especially in the ends of the sigmoid field that erupts with the filament. and flare brightenings begin underneath the fast-moving but still low-altitude filament. We consider two models for explaining the eruption: "breakout. which says that reconnection occurs high above the filament prior to eruption, and tether cutting, which says that the eruption is unleashed by reconnection beneath the filament. The pre

Evidence for Gradual External Reconnection Before Explosive Eruption of a Solar Filament

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sterling, Alphonse C.; Moore, Ronald L.

2003-01-01

We observe a slowly-evolving quiet region solar eruption of 1999 April 18, using EUV images from the EUV Imaging Telescope (EIT) on the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO), and soft X-ray images from the Soft X-ray Telescope (SXT) on Yohkoh. Using difference images, where an early image is subtracted from later images, we examine dimmings and brightenings in the region for evidence of the eruption mechanism. A filament rose slowly at about 1 kilometer per second for six hours before being rapidly ejected at about 16 kilometers per second, leaving flare brightenings and post-flare loops in its wake. Magnetograms from the Michelson Doppler Imager (MDI) on SOHO show that the eruption occurred in a large quadrupo1ar magnetic region, with the filament located on the neutral line of the quadrupole's central inner lobe, between the inner two of the four polarity domains. In step with the slow rise, subtle EIT dimmings commence and gradually increase over the two polarity domains on one side of the filament, i.e. in some of the loops of one of the two side lobes of the quadrupole. Concurrently, soft X-ray brightenings gradually increase in both side lobes. Both of these effects suggest heating in the side-lobe magnetic arcades, which gradually increase over several hours before the fast eruption. Also during the slow pre-eruption phase, SXT dimmings gradually increase in the feet and legs of the central lobe, indicating expansion of the central-lobe magnetic arcade enveloping the filament. During the rapid ejection, these dimmings rapidly grow in darkness and in area, especially in the ends of the sigmoid field that erupts with the filament, and flare brightenings begin underneath the fast-moving but still low-altitude filament. We consider two models for explaining the eruption: "breakout," which says that reconnection occurs high above the filament prior to eruption, and tether cutting, which says that the eruption is unleashed by reconnection beneath the filament

Understanding the gradual reset in Pt/Al2O3/Ni RRAM for synaptic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarkar, Biplab; Lee, Bongmook; Misra, Veena

2015-10-01

In this work, a study has been performed to understand the gradual reset in Al2O3 resistive random-access memory (RRAM). Concentration of vacancies created during the forming or set operation is found to play a major role in the reset mechanism. The reset was observed to be gradual when a significantly higher number of vacancies are created in the dielectric during the set event. The vacancy concentration inside the dielectric was increased using a multi-step forming method which resulted in a diffusion-dominated gradual filament dissolution during the reset in Al2O3 RRAM. The gradual dissolution of the filament allows one to control the conductance of the dielectric during the reset. RRAM devices with gradual reset show excellent endurance and retention for multi-bit storage. Finally, the conductance modulation characteristics realizing synaptic learning are also confirmed in the RRAM.

Rapid rather than gradual weight reduction impairs hemorheological parameters of Taekwondo athletes through reduction in RBC-NOS activation.

PubMed

Yang, Woo Hwi; Heine, Oliver; Pauly, Sebastian; Kim, Pilsang; Bloch, Wilhelm; Mester, Joachim; Grau, Marijke

2015-01-01

Rapid weight reduction is part of the pre-competition routine and has been shown to negatively affect psychological and physiological performance of Taekwondo (TKD) athletes. This is caused by a reduction of the body water and an electrolyte imbalance. So far, it is unknown whether weight reduction also affects hemorheological properties and hemorheology-influencing nitric oxide (NO) signaling, important for oxygen supply to the muscles and organs. For this purpose, ten male TKD athletes reduced their body weight by 5% within four days (rapid weight reduction, RWR). After a recovery phase, athletes reduced body weight by 5% within four weeks (gradual weight reduction, GWR). Each intervention was preceded by two baseline measurements and followed by a simulated competition. Basal blood parameters (red blood cell (RBC) count, hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, mean cellular hemoglobin and mean cellular hemoglobin concentration), RBC-NO synthase activation, RBC nitrite as marker for NO synthesis, RBC deformability and aggregation parameters were determined on a total of eight investigation days. Basal blood parameters were not affected by the two interventions. In contrast to GWR, RWR decreased activation of RBC-NO synthase, RBC nitrite, respective NO concentration and RBC deformability. Additionally, RWR increased RBC aggregation and disaggregation threshold. The results point out that a rapid weight reduction negatively affects hemorheological parameters and NO signaling in RBC which might limit performance capacity. Thus, GWR should be preferred to achieve the desired weight prior to a competition to avoid these negative effects.

Market seen strengthening gradually

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

Stremel, K.; Marcus, E.

1983-12-01

Rocky Mountain well servicing contractors are expecting a more profitable business next year. Rig utilization has been improving since it's April low, convincing contractors that a gradual strengthening of the market is underway. Contractors have cut overhead expenses drastically, and are surviving on minimal profit levels. There is a growing consensus that rates have to improve if contractors are to maintain equipment and personnel standards.

Modeling effectiveness of gradual increases in source level to mitigate effects of sonar on marine mammals.

PubMed

Von Benda-Beckmann, Alexander M; Wensveen, Paul J; Kvadsheim, Petter H; Lam, Frans-Peter A; Miller, Patrick J O; Tyack, Peter L; Ainslie, Michael A

2014-02-01

Ramp-up or soft-start procedures (i.e., gradual increase in the source level) are used to mitigate the effect of sonar sound on marine mammals, although no one to date has tested whether ramp-up procedures are effective at reducing the effect of sound on marine mammals. We investigated the effectiveness of ramp-up procedures in reducing the area within which changes in hearing thresholds can occur. We modeled the level of sound killer whales (Orcinus orca) were exposed to from a generic sonar operation preceded by different ramp-up schemes. In our model, ramp-up procedures reduced the risk of killer whales receiving sounds of sufficient intensity to affect their hearing. The effectiveness of the ramp-up procedure depended strongly on the assumed response threshold and differed with ramp-up duration, although extending the duration of the ramp up beyond 5 min did not add much to its predicted mitigating effect. The main factors that limited effectiveness of ramp up in a typical antisubmarine warfare scenario were high source level, rapid moving sonar source, and long silences between consecutive sonar transmissions. Our exposure modeling approach can be used to evaluate and optimize mitigation procedures. © 2013 Society for Conservation Biology.

Children Acquire Emotion Categories Gradually

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Widen, Sherri C.; Russell, James A.

2008-01-01

Some accounts imply that basic-level emotion categories are acquired early and quickly, whereas others imply that they are acquired later and more gradually. Our study examined this question for fear, happiness, sadness, and anger in the context of children's categorization of emotional facial expressions. Children (N=168, 2-5 years) first labeled…

Gradual Ordering in Red Abalone Nacre

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

Gilbert, P. U. P. A.; Metzler, Rebecca A.; Zhou, Dong

2008-09-03

Red abalone (Haliotis rufescens) nacre is a layered composite biomineral that contains crystalline aragonite tablets confined by organic layers. Nacre is intensely studied because its biologically controlled microarchitecture gives rise to remarkable strength and toughness, but the mechanisms leading to its formation are not well understood. Here we present synchrotron spectromicroscopy experiments revealing that stacks of aragonite tablet crystals in nacre are misoriented with respect to each other. Quantitative measurements of crystal orientation, tablet size, and tablet stacking direction show that orientational ordering occurs not abruptly but gradually over a distance of 50 {micro}m. Several lines of evidence indicate thatmore » different crystal orientations imply different tablet growth rates during nacre formation. A theoretical model based on kinetic and gradual selection of the fastest growth rates produces results in qualitative and quantitative agreement with the experimental data and therefore demonstrates that ordering in nacre is a result of crystal growth kinetics and competition either in addition or to the exclusion of templation by acidic proteins as previously assumed. As in other natural evolving kinetic systems, selection of the fastest-growing stacks of tablets occurs gradually in space and time. These results suggest that the self-ordering of the mineral phase, which may occur completely independently of biological or organic-molecule control, is fundamental in nacre formation.« less

Economic analysis of gradual "social exhaustion" of waste management capacity.

PubMed

Koide, Hideo; Nakayama, Hirofumi

2013-12-01

This article proposes to analyze the quantitative effects of a gradual physical and "social" exhaustion of a landfill site on an equilibrium waste management service. A gradual social exhaustion of a landfill is defined here as an upward shift of a "subjective factor" associated with the amount of waste, based on the plausible hypothesis that an individual will not accept excessive presence of landfilled waste. Physical exhaustion occurs when the absolute capacity of a landfill site decreases. The paper shows some numerical examples using specific functions and parameters, and proposes appropriate directions for three policy objectives: to decrease the equilibrium waste disposal, to increase the economic surplus of the individual and/or the waste management firm, and to lower the equilibrium collection fee. Copyright © 2013 The Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Interacting Learning Processes during Skill Acquisition: Learning to control with gradually changing system dynamics.

PubMed

Ludolph, Nicolas; Giese, Martin A; Ilg, Winfried

2017-10-16

There is increasing evidence that sensorimotor learning under real-life conditions relies on a composition of several learning processes. Nevertheless, most studies examine learning behaviour in relation to one specific learning mechanism. In this study, we examined the interaction between reward-based skill acquisition and motor adaptation to changes of object dynamics. Thirty healthy subjects, split into two groups, acquired the skill of balancing a pole on a cart in virtual reality. In one group, we gradually increased the gravity, making the task easier in the beginning and more difficult towards the end. In the second group, subjects had to acquire the skill on the maximum, most difficult gravity level. We hypothesized that the gradual increase in gravity during skill acquisition supports learning despite the necessary adjustments to changes in cart-pole dynamics. We found that the gradual group benefits from the slow increment, although overall improvement was interrupted by the changes in gravity and resulting system dynamics, which caused short-term degradations in performance and timing of actions. In conclusion, our results deliver evidence for an interaction of reward-based skill acquisition and motor adaptation processes, which indicates the importance of both processes for the development of optimized skill acquisition schedules.

Evaluation of gradual occlusion of the caudal vena cava in clinically normal dogs.

PubMed

Peacock, John T; Fossum, Theresa W; Bahr, Anne M; Miller, Matthew W; Edwards, John F

2003-11-01

To devise a technique for gradual occlusion of the caudal vena cava in dogs and determine effects of complete occlusion of the caudal vena cava. 8 mixed-breed hounds that weighed between 25 and 30 kg. Baseline evaluation of dogs included serum biochemical analyses and determination of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) with dynamic renal scintigraphy and plasma clearance analysis. An occluder was placed around the vena cava in the region cranial to the renal veins. The occluder was attached to a vascular access port. The vena cava was gradually occluded over 2 weeks. The GFR was measured every 2 weeks after surgery, and venograms were performed every 3 weeks after surgery. Blood samples were collected every 48 hours for the first week and then weekly thereafter to measure BUN and creatinine concentrations and activities of alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and creatinine kinase. Dogs were euthanatized 6 weeks after surgery, and tissues were submitted for histologic examination. The GFR and biochemical data were compared with baseline values. Gradual occlusion of the caudal vena cava was easily and consistently performed with this method, and adverse clinical signs were not detected. Formation of collateral vessels allowed overall GFR to remain constant despite a decrease in function of the left kidney. Measured biochemical values did not deviate from reference ranges. Gradual occlusion of the caudal vena cava may allow removal of adrenal gland tumors with vascular invasion that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to resect.

Expansion of chromospheric matter in the gradual phase of solar flares

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ohki, K.

1975-01-01

Interferometric observations at 17 GHz of several small X-ray flares are presented along with soft X-ray observations of preflare active regions to show that a large mass increase accompanies the formation of an X-ray hot region in the corona. The total amount of energy contained in a hot coronal region is estimated, and a model is proposed in which a significant amount of the hot matter is supplied to the corona from the chromosphere during each flare. According to this model, energy produced by some coronal instability is transported by thermal conduction to the chromosphere, where dense gas is heated and subsequently expands into the corona. It is shown that impulsive heating of the chromosphere by nonthermal electrons cannot be the energy source of this model because the total energy supplied to the hot region during the gradual phase must be much greater than that supplied during the impulsive phase.

Gradual unlocking of plate boundary controlled initiation of the 2014 Iquique earthquake.

PubMed

Schurr, Bernd; Asch, Günter; Hainzl, Sebastian; Bedford, Jonathan; Hoechner, Andreas; Palo, Mauro; Wang, Rongjiang; Moreno, Marcos; Bartsch, Mitja; Zhang, Yong; Oncken, Onno; Tilmann, Frederik; Dahm, Torsten; Victor, Pia; Barrientos, Sergio; Vilotte, Jean-Pierre

2014-08-21

On 1 April 2014, Northern Chile was struck by a magnitude 8.1 earthquake following a protracted series of foreshocks. The Integrated Plate Boundary Observatory Chile monitored the entire sequence of events, providing unprecedented resolution of the build-up to the main event and its rupture evolution. Here we show that the Iquique earthquake broke a central fraction of the so-called northern Chile seismic gap, the last major segment of the South American plate boundary that had not ruptured in the past century. Since July 2013 three seismic clusters, each lasting a few weeks, hit this part of the plate boundary with earthquakes of increasing peak magnitudes. Starting with the second cluster, geodetic observations show surface displacements that can be associated with slip on the plate interface. These seismic clusters and their slip transients occupied a part of the plate interface that was transitional between a fully locked and a creeping portion. Leading up to this earthquake, the b value of the foreshocks gradually decreased during the years before the earthquake, reversing its trend a few days before the Iquique earthquake. The mainshock finally nucleated at the northern end of the foreshock area, which skirted a locked patch, and ruptured mainly downdip towards higher locking. Peak slip was attained immediately downdip of the foreshock region and at the margin of the locked patch. We conclude that gradual weakening of the central part of the seismic gap accentuated by the foreshock activity in a zone of intermediate seismic coupling was instrumental in causing final failure, distinguishing the Iquique earthquake from most great earthquakes. Finally, only one-third of the gap was broken and the remaining locked segments now pose a significant, increased seismic hazard with the potential to host an earthquake with a magnitude of >8.5.

Plasma leptin and growth hormone levels in the fine flounder (Paralichthys adspersus) increase gradually during fasting and decline rapidly after refeeding.

PubMed

Fuentes, Eduardo N; Kling, Peter; Einarsdottir, Ingibjörg Eir; Alvarez, Marco; Valdés, Juan Antonio; Molina, Alfredo; Björnsson, Björn Thrandur

2012-05-15

In fish, recent studies have indicated an anorexigenic role of leptin and thus its possible involvement in regulation of energy balance and growth. In the present study, the effects of fasting and refeeding periods on plasma leptin levels were studied in the fine flounder, a flatfish with remarkably slow growth. To further assess the endocrine status of the fish during periods of catabolism and anabolism, plasma growth hormone (GH) levels were also analyzed. Under normal feeding condition, plasma leptin and GH levels remained stable and relatively high in comparison with other teleost species. For the three separate groups of fish, fasted for 2, 3, and 4 weeks, respectively, plasma leptin levels increase gradually, becoming significantly elevated after 3 weeks, and reaching highest levels after 4-week fasting. Plasma GH levels were significantly elevated after 2-week fasting. At the onset of refeeding, following a single meal, leptin levels decline rapidly to lower than initial levels within 2 h, irrespective of the length of fasting. Plasma GH also decline, the decrease being significant after 4, 24 and 2 h for the 2, 3 and 4-week fasted groups, respectively. This study shows that plasma leptin levels in the fine flounder are strongly linked to nutritional status and suggests that leptin secretion is regulated by fast-acting mechanisms. Elevated leptin levels in fasted fish may contribute to a passive survival strategy of species which experience natural food shortage periods by lowering appetite and limiting physical foraging activity. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Pressure-limited sustained inflation vs. gradual tidal inflations for resuscitation in preterm lambs.

PubMed

Tingay, David G; Polglase, Graeme R; Bhatia, Risha; Berry, Clare A; Kopotic, Robert J; Kopotic, Clinton P; Song, Yong; Szyld, Edgardo; Jobe, Alan H; Pillow, J Jane

2015-04-01

Support of the mechanically complex preterm lung needs to facilitate aeration while avoiding ventilation heterogeneities: whether to achieve this gradually or quickly remains unclear. We compared the effect of gradual vs. constant tidal inflations and a pressure-limited sustained inflation (SI) at birth on gas exchange, lung mechanics, gravity-dependent lung volume distribution, and lung injury in 131-day gestation preterm lambs. Lambs were resuscitated with either 1) a 20-s, 40-cmH2O pressure-limited SI (PressSI), 2) a gradual increase in tidal volume (Vt) over 5-min from 3 ml/kg to 7 ml/kg (IncrVt), or 3) 7 ml/kg Vt from birth. All lambs were subsequently ventilated for 15 min with 7 ml/kg Vt with the same end-expiratory pressure. Lung mechanics, gas exchange and spatial distribution of end-expiratory volume (EEV), and tidal ventilation (electrical impedance tomography) were recorded regularly. At 15 min, early mRNA tissue markers of lung injury were assessed. The IncrVt group resulted in greater tissue hysteresivity at 5 min (P = 0.017; two-way ANOVA), higher alveolar-arterial oxygen difference from 10 min (P < 0.01), and least uniform gravity-dependent distribution of EEV. There were no other differences in lung mechanics between groups, and the PressSI and 7 ml/kg Vt groups behaved similarly throughout. EEV was more uniformly distributed, but Vt least so, in the PressSI group. There were no differences in mRNA markers of lung injury. A gradual increase in Vt from birth resulted in less recruitment of the gravity-dependent lung with worse oxygenation. There was no benefit of a SI at birth over mechanical ventilation with 7 ml/kg Vt. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

Slip-weakening zone sizes at nucleation of catastrophic subaerial and submarine landslides by gradually increasing pore pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Viesca, R. C.; Rice, J. R.

2011-12-01

We address the nucleation of dynamic landslide rupture in response to gradual pore pressure increases. Nucleation marks the onset of acceleration of the overlying slope mass due to the suddenly rapid enlargement of a sub-surface zone of shear failure, previously deforming quasi-statically. We model that zone as a planar surface undergoing initially linear slip-weakening frictional failure within a bordering linear-elastic medium. The results are also relevant to earthquake nucleation. The sub-surface rupture zone considered runs parallel to the free surface of a uniform slope, under a 2D plane-strain deformation state. We show results for ruptures with friction coefficients following linear slip weakening (i.e., the residual friction is not yet reached). For spatially broad increases in pore pressure, the nucleation length depends on a ratio of depth to a cohesive zone length scale. In the very broad-increase limit, a direct numerical solution for nucleation lengths compares well with solutions to a corresponding eigenvalue problem (similar to Uenishi and Rice [JGR '03]), in which spatial variations in normal stress are neglected. We estimate nucleation lengths for subaerial and submarine conditions using data [e.g., Bishop et al., Géotech. '71; Stark et al., JGGE '05] from ring-shear tests on sediments (peak friction fp = 0.5, frictional slip-weakening rate within the range w = -df/d(slip) = 0.1/cm-1/cm). We assume that only pre-stresses, and not material properties, vary with depth. With such fp and w, we find for a range of subsurface depths and shear moduli μ that nucleation lengths are typically several hundred meters long for shallow undersea slopes, and up to an order of magnitude less for steeper slopes on the Earth's surface. In the submarine case, this puts nucleation lengths in a size range comparable to observed pore-pressure-generated seafloor disturbances as pockmarks [e.g., Gay et al., MG '06].

Gradual pore formation in natural origin scaffolds throughout subcutaneous implantation

PubMed Central

Martins, Ana M.; Kretlow, James D.; Costa-Pinto, Ana R.; Malafaya, Patrícia B.; Fernandes, Emanuel M.; Neves, Nuno M.; Alves, Catarina M.; Mikos, Antonios G.; Kasper, F. Kurtis; Reis, Rui L.

2012-01-01

The present study employed a rat subcutaneous implantation model to investigate gradual in situ pore formation in a self-regulating degradable chitosan-based material, which comprises lysozyme incorporated into biomimetic calcium phosphate (CaP) coatings at the surface in order to control the scaffold degradation and subsequent pore formation. Specifically, the in vivo degradation of the scaffolds, the in situ pore formation and the tissue response were investigated. Chitosan or chitosan/starch scaffolds were studied with and without a CaP coating in the presence or absence of lysozyme for a total of 6 experimental groups. Twenty-four scaffolds per group were implanted, and eight scaffolds were retrieved at each of three time points (3, 6 and 12 weeks). Harvested samples were analyzed for weight loss, micro-computed tomography, and histological analysis. All scaffolds showed pronounced weight loss and pore formation as a function of time. The highest weight loss was 29.8 ± 1.5%, obtained at week 12 for CaP chitosan/starch scaffolds with lysozyme incorporated. Moreover, all experimental groups showed a significant increase in porosity after 12 weeks. At all time points no adverse tissue reaction was observed, and as degradation increased, histological analysis showed cellular ingrowth throughout the implants. Using this innovative methodology, the ability to gradually generate pores in situ was clearly demonstrated in vivo. PMID:22213676

Implications of a fossil stickleback assemblage for Darwinian gradualism.

PubMed

Bell, M A

2009-11-01

Darwin postulated that a complete fossil record would contain numerous gradual transitions between ancestral and descendant species, but 150 years after publication of The Origin of Species, few such transitions have materialized. The fossil stickleback Gasterosteus doryssus and the deposit in which it occurs provide excellent conditions to detect such transitions. Abundant, well-preserved fossils occur in a stratigraphic setting with fine temporal resolution. The paleoecology of G. doryssus resembles the ecology of modern lakes that harbour the phenotypically similar three-spined stickleback Gasterosteus aculeatus. Gasterosteus aculeatus are primitively highly armoured, but G. doryssus comprised two contemporaneous biological species with relatively weak armour, including a near-shore, benthic feeder (benthic) and an offshore planktivore (limnetic). The benthic species expanded its range into the limnetic zone of the lake, where it apparently switched to planktivory and evolved reduced armour within c. 5000 years in response to directional selection. Although gradual evolution of mean phenotypes occurred, a single major gene caused much of evolutionary change of the pelvic skeleton. Thus, Darwin's expectation that transitions between species in the fossil record would be gradual was met at a fine time scale, but for pelvic structure, a well-studied trait, his expectation that gradual change would depend entirely on numerous, small, heritable differences among individuals was incorrect.

Gradual escalation of use-of-force reduces police officer injury.

PubMed

Jetelina, Katelyn K; Reingle Gonzalez, Jennifer M; Bishopp, Stephen A

2018-02-01

To examine how escalation through the force continuum predicts officer injury in the presence of citizen aggression, while controlling for extraneous factors, like citizen and officer characteristics. Cross-sectional data were extracted from 2244 use-of-force reports from the Dallas Police Department in 2015. Multilevel, mixed logistic regression models were used to evaluate the relationship between use of force and officer injury. Multilevel path analysis tested indirect and direct relationships between citizen aggression and officer injury. Results suggest that gradual escalation through the force continuum significantly decreases officer injury when a citizen is actively aggressive (β=-1.06, p value <0.001). Further, non-Hispanic black officers (β=-0.22, p value <0.001) and Hispanic officers (β=-0.08, p value <0.05) are less likely to gradually escalate through the force continuum, due to lower odds of verbal commands (black: OR=0.51, 95% CI 0.39 to 0.68; Hispanic: OR=0.77, 95% CI 0.60 to 0.99) and hard-empty hand control (black: OR=0.58, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.77) compared with white officers. Finally, officers with higher tenure (β=-0.01, p value <0.001) are less likely to gradually escalate through the force continuum. Escalation through the force continuum significantly reduces police officer injury. Future research should assess whether further environmental or situational factors contribute to the strong relationship between use of force and officer injury. Also, reliability and validity testing of use-of-force reports is an imperative direction for future research. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

Direct ethanol solid oxide fuel cell operating in gradual internal reforming

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nobrega, S. D.; Galesco, M. V.; Girona, K.; de Florio, D. Z.; Steil, M. C.; Georges, S.; Fonseca, F. C.

2012-09-01

An electrolyte supported solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) using standard electrodes, doped-lanthanum manganite cathode and Ni-cermet anode, was operated with direct (anhydrous) ethanol for more than 100 h, delivering essentially the same power output as running on hydrogen. A ceria-based layer provides the catalytic activity for the gradual internal reforming, which uses the steam formed by the electrochemical oxidation of hydrogen for the decomposition of ethanol. Such a concept opens up the way for multi-fuel SOFCs using standard components and a catalytic layer.

Gradually increasing ethinyl estradiol for Turner syndrome may produce good final height but not ideal BMD.

PubMed

Hasegawa, Yukihiro; Ariyasu, Daisuke; Izawa, Masako; Igaki-Miyamoto, Junko; Fukuma, Mami; Hatano, Megumi; Yagi, Hiroko; Goto, Masahiro

2017-02-27

Estrogen replacement therapy in Turner syndrome should theoretically mimic the physiology of healthy girls. The objective of this study was to describe final height and bone mineral density (BMD) in a group of 17 Turner syndrome patients (group E) who started their ethinyl estradiol therapy with an ultra-low dosage (1-5 ng/kg/day) from 9.8-13.7 years. The subjects in group E had been treated with GH 0.35 mg/kg/week since the average age of 7.4 years. The 30 subjects in group L, one of the historical groups, were given comparable doses of GH, and conjugated estrogen 0.3125 mg/week ∼0.3125 mg/day was initiated at 12.2-18.7 years. The subjects in group S, the other historical group, were 21 patients who experienced breast development and menarche spontaneously. Final height (height gain < 2 cm/year) in group E was 152.4 ± 3.4 cm and the standard deviation (SD) was 2.02 ± 0.62 for Turner syndrome. The final height in group L was 148.5 ± 3.0 cm with a SD of 1.30 ± 0.55, which was significantly different from the values for group E. The volumetric BMD of group S (0.290 ± 0.026 g/cm 3 ) was significantly different from that of group L or E (0.262 or 0.262 g/cm 3 as a mean, respectively). This is the first study of patients with Turner syndrome where estrogen was administered initially in an ultra-low dose and then increased gradually. Our estrogen therapy in group E produced good final height but not ideal BMD.

General form of a cooperative gradual maximal covering location problem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bagherinejad, Jafar; Bashiri, Mahdi; Nikzad, Hamideh

2018-07-01

Cooperative and gradual covering are two new methods for developing covering location models. In this paper, a cooperative maximal covering location-allocation model is developed (CMCLAP). In addition, both cooperative and gradual covering concepts are applied to the maximal covering location simultaneously (CGMCLP). Then, we develop an integrated form of a cooperative gradual maximal covering location problem, which is called a general CGMCLP. By setting the model parameters, the proposed general model can easily be transformed into other existing models, facilitating general comparisons. The proposed models are developed without allocation for physical signals and with allocation for non-physical signals in discrete location space. Comparison of the previously introduced gradual maximal covering location problem (GMCLP) and cooperative maximal covering location problem (CMCLP) models with our proposed CGMCLP model in similar data sets shows that the proposed model can cover more demands and acts more efficiently. Sensitivity analyses are performed to show the effect of related parameters and the model's validity. Simulated annealing (SA) and a tabu search (TS) are proposed as solution algorithms for the developed models for large-sized instances. The results show that the proposed algorithms are efficient solution approaches, considering solution quality and running time.

Rapid versus gradual bladder decompression in acute urinary retention.

PubMed

Etafy, Mohamed H; Saleh, Fatma H; Ortiz-Vanderdys, Cervando; Hamada, Alaa; Refaat, Alaa M; Aal, Mohamed Abdel; Deif, Hazem; Gawish, Maher; Abdellatif, Ashraf H; Gadalla, Khaled

2017-01-01

To demonstrate a benefit in diminished adverse events such as hypotension and hematuria with gradual drainage of the bladder when compared to rapid decompression in patients with acute urinary retention (AUR) due to benign prostatic hyperplasia in a case-control study. Sixty-two patients matched our selection criteria presenting with AUR. They were divided into two groups - the first was managed by rapid drainage of the bladder, the second was managed by gradual drainage through a urethral catheter (The first 100 mL immediately evacuated, then the rest evacuated gradually over 2 h). The mean age was 64.4 and 63.2 years in the first and second group, respectively. Diagnosed cause was benign hyperplasia of the prostate. Hematuria occurred in two patients in the first group and none in the second group. The two cases of hematuria were mild and treated conservatively. After the relief of the obstruction, the mean blood pressure was noticed to decrease by 15 mmHg and 10 mmHg in the first and second group, respectively, however, no one developed significant hypotension. Pain relief was achieved after complete drainage in the first group and after the evacuation of 100 mL in the second group. We conclude that there is no significant difference between rapid and gradual decompression of the bladder in patients with AUR. Hematuria and hypotension may occur after rapid decompression of the obstructed urinary bladder, but these complications are rarely clinically significant.

Rapid versus gradual bladder decompression in acute urinary retention

PubMed Central

Etafy, Mohamed H.; Saleh, Fatma H.; Ortiz-Vanderdys, Cervando; Hamada, Alaa; Refaat, Alaa M.; Aal, Mohamed Abdel; Deif, Hazem; Gawish, Maher; Abdellatif, Ashraf H.; Gadalla, Khaled

2017-01-01

Objective: To demonstrate a benefit in diminished adverse events such as hypotension and hematuria with gradual drainage of the bladder when compared to rapid decompression in patients with acute urinary retention (AUR) due to benign prostatic hyperplasia in a case–control study. Methods: Sixty-two patients matched our selection criteria presenting with AUR. They were divided into two groups – the first was managed by rapid drainage of the bladder, the second was managed by gradual drainage through a urethral catheter (The first 100 mL immediately evacuated, then the rest evacuated gradually over 2 h). Results: The mean age was 64.4 and 63.2 years in the first and second group, respectively. Diagnosed cause was benign hyperplasia of the prostate. Hematuria occurred in two patients in the first group and none in the second group. The two cases of hematuria were mild and treated conservatively. After the relief of the obstruction, the mean blood pressure was noticed to decrease by 15 mmHg and 10 mmHg in the first and second group, respectively, however, no one developed significant hypotension. Pain relief was achieved after complete drainage in the first group and after the evacuation of 100 mL in the second group. Conclusions: We conclude that there is no significant difference between rapid and gradual decompression of the bladder in patients with AUR. Hematuria and hypotension may occur after rapid decompression of the obstructed urinary bladder, but these complications are rarely clinically significant. PMID:29118535

Effect of rapid or gradual grain adaptation on subacute acidosis and feed intake by feedlot cattle.

PubMed

Bevans, D W; Beauchemin, K A; Schwartzkopf-Genswein, K S; McKinnon, J J; McAllister, T A

2005-05-01

The effects of grain adaptation protocol on subacute acidosis and feed intake by cattle were studied in a completely randomized experiment using 12 crossbred heifers (384 +/- 25 kg BW). The dietary proportion of concentrate was increased from 40 to 90% (DM basis) either by rapid adaptation (65% concentrate diet fed for 3 d) or by gradual adaptation (five intermediate diets containing 48.3, 56.7, 65.0, 73.3, and 81.7% concentrate, fed for 3 d each). Feed intake and ruminal pH (by indwelling ruminal electrodes) were monitored over 20 d. Mean daily pH variables did not differ (P > or = 0.10) between treatments on any of the 3 or 4 d that 65 or 90% concentrate was fed. Variances of a number of pH variables were greater (P < 0.05) for rapidly adapted heifers than for those on the gradual adaptation protocol during adaptation to 65 and 90% concentrate. Mean hourly pH did not differ over the first 24 h of adaptation to 65% concentrate, but variance of hourly pH tended (P < 0.10) to be greater for rapidly adapted than for gradually adapted heifers for eight of the first 24 h. On the first day of feeding 90% concentrate, ruminal pH tended (P = 0.07) to be less at 11 and 12 h after feeding with rapid adaptation than with gradual adaptation. Variance of hourly pH increased steadily in rapidly adapted heifers from 6 h after feeding onward. Ruminal VFA concentration and osmolality did not differ between treatments. Ruminal lactate concentration was < 1 mM, except in two rapidly adapted heifers and one gradually adapted heifer after introduction to 90% concentrate. Adaptation method did not affect DMI or day-to-day variation in DMI. Detection of acidosis was associated with increased variance in ruminal pH variables. A range of individual responses to grain challenge was observed, but current management strategies for preventing acidosis in pens of cattle are based on responses of the most susceptible individuals. A better understanding of factors governing individual responses

The optimal evaluation and management of patients with a gradual onset of olfactory loss.

PubMed

Enriquez, Karla; Lehrer, Eduardo; Mullol, Joaquim

2014-02-01

The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the causes of olfactory dysfunction, their evaluation and management, with a main focus on the gradual/progressive loss of smell. As the sense of smell gives us essential information about our environment, its loss can cause nutritional and social problems while threatening an individual's safety. Recent surveys have shown quite a substantial prevalence of hyposmia (one out of four people) and anosmia (one out of 200 people) in a variety of populations. Nasal inflammatory diseases such as allergic rhinitis and predominantly chronic rhinosinusitis account for the major and common causes of gradual/progressive loss of smell. However, they are also among the most successfully treated forms of olfactory dysfunction. The management of gradual/progressive smell deficit must always address its etiological causes. In most cases, a detailed medical history and nasal examination, smell testing, and imaging will help to establish an appropriate diagnosis. In addition to anti-inflammatory therapy, mainly nasal and systemic corticosteroids, recent investigations on smell training suggest that the controlled exposure to selected odors may increase olfactory performance. See the Video Supplementary Digital Content 1 (http://links.lww.com/COOH/A8).

Photosynthetic performance of invasive Pinus ponderosa and Juniperus virginiana seedlings under gradual soil water depletion.

PubMed

Bihmidine, S; Bryan, N M; Payne, K R; Parde, M R; Okalebo, J A; Cooperstein, S E; Awada, T

2010-07-01

Changes in climate, land management and fire regime have contributed to woody species expansion into grasslands and savannas worldwide. In the USA, Pinus ponderosa P.&C. Lawson and Juniperus virginiana L. are expanding into semiarid grasslands of Nebraska and other regions of the Great Plains. We examined P. ponderosa and J. virginiana seedling response to soil water content, one of the most important limiting factors in semiarid grasslands, to provide insight into their success in the region. Photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, maximum photochemical efficiency of PSII, maximum carboxylation velocity, maximum rate of electron transport, stomatal limitation to photosynthesis, water potential, root-to-shoot ratio, and needle nitrogen content were followed under gradual soil water depletion for 40 days. J. virginiana maintained lower L(s), higher A, g(s), and initial F(v)/F(m), and displayed a more gradual decline in V(cmax) and J(max) with increasing water deficit compared to P. ponderosa. J. virginiana also invested more in roots relative to shoots compared to P. ponderosa. F(v)/F(m) showed high PSII resistance to dehydration in both species. Photoinhibition was observed at approximately 30% of field capacity. Soil water content was a better predictor of A and g(s) than Psi, indicating that there are other growth factors controlling physiological processes under increased water stress. The two species followed different strategies to succeed in semiarid grasslands. P. ponderosa seedlings behaved like a drought-avoidant species with strong stomatal control, while J. virginiana was more of a drought-tolerant species, maintaining physiological activity at lower soil water content. Differences between the studied species and the ecological implications are discussed.

Gradually Decreasing Starch Branching Enzyme Expression Is Responsible for the Formation of Heterogeneous Starch Granules1[OPEN

PubMed Central

Hu, Pan; Chen, Zichun

2018-01-01

Rice (Oryza sativa) endosperm is mainly occupied by homogeneous polygonal starch from inside to outside. However, morphologically different (heterogeneous) starches have been identified in some rice mutants. How these heterogeneous starches form remains unknown. A high-amylose rice line (TRS) generated through the antisense inhibition of starch branching synthase I (SBEI) and SBEIIb contains four heterogeneous starches: polygonal, aggregate, elongated, and hollow starch; these starches are regionally distributed in the endosperm from inside to outside. Here, we investigated the relationship between SBE dosage and the morphological architecture of heterogeneous starches in TRS endosperm from the view of the molecular structure of starch. The results indicated that their molecular structures underwent regular changes, including gradually increasing true amylose content but decreasing amylopectin content and gradually increasing the ratio of amylopectin long chain but decreasing the ratio of amylopectin short chain. Granule-bound starch synthase I (GBSSI) amounts in the four heterogeneous starches were not significantly different from each other, but SBEI, SBEIIa, and SBEIIb showed a gradually decreasing trend. Further immunostaining analysis revealed that the gradually decreasing SBEs acting on the formation of the four heterogeneous granules were mainly due to the spatial distribution of the three SBEs in the endosperm. It was suggested that the decreased amylopectin in starch might remove steric hindrance and provide extra space for abundant amylose accumulation when the GBSSI amount was not elevated. Furthermore, extra amylose coupled with altered amylopectin structure possibly led to morphological changes in heterogeneous granules. PMID:29133372

Bacterial differentiation via gradual activation of global regulators.

PubMed

Kovács, Ákos T

2016-02-01

Bacteria have evolved to adapt to various conditions and respond to certain stress conditions. The ability to sense and efficiently reply to these environmental effects involve versatile array of sensors and global or specific regulators. Interestingly, modulation of the levels of active global regulators enables bacteria to respond to diverse signals via a single central transcriptional regulator and to activate or repress certain differentiation pathways at a spatio-temporal manner. The Gram-positive Bacillus subtilis is an ideal bacterium to study how membrane bound and cytoplasmic sensor kinases affect the level of phosphorylated global regulator, Spo0A which in response activates genes related to sliding, biofilm formation, and sporulation. In addition, other global regulators, including the two-component system DegS-DegU, modulate overlapping and complementary genes in B. subtilis related to surface colonization and biofilm formation. The intertwinement of global regulatory systems also allows the accurate modulation of differentiation pathways. Studies in the last decade enable us to get a deeper insight into the role of global regulators on the smooth transition of developmental processes in B. subtilis.

Remarkable cycle-activated capacity increasing in onion-like carbon nanospheres as lithium battery anode material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Jiajun; Zhang, Tong; Zhang, Dong; Zhang, Weiwei; Zhang, Huafang; Liu, Ran; Yao, Mingguang; Liu, Bingbing

2017-01-01

Onion-like carbon nanospheres (OCNSs) with an average diameter of 43 nm were produced on a large scale via a combustion method and examined as an anode material for lithium ion batteries. The OCNSs exhibit a remarkable electrochemical cycling behavior and a capacity much higher than that of graphite. The capacity increases significantly with increasing charge-discharge cycles and reaches a value of 178% of the initial value (from 586 mA h g-1to 1045 mA h g-1) after 200 cycles. Further investigation provides unambiguous experimental evidence that such a remarkable capacity increase is related to the stable onion-like structure of the OCNSs and to the existence of large numbers of disordered/short graphitic fragments, which gradually provide more active sites for Li ion storage. The unique electrochemical performance of OCNSs provides a new way to design a high-performance anode material for rechargeable batteries.

THE CENTRAL MOLECULAR GAS STRUCTURE IN LINERS WITH LOW-LUMINOSITY ACTIVE GALACTIC NUCLEI: EVIDENCE FOR GRADUAL DISAPPEARANCE OF THE TORUS

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

Mueller-Sanchez, F.; Prieto, M. A.; Mezcua, M.

2013-01-20

We present observations of the molecular gas in the nuclear environment of three prototypical low-luminosity active galactic nuclei (LLAGNs), based on VLT/SINFONI AO-assisted integral-field spectroscopy of H{sub 2} 1-0 S(1) emission at angular resolutions of {approx}0.''17. On scales of 50-150 pc, the spatial distribution and kinematics of the molecular gas are consistent with a rotating thin disk, where the ratio of rotation (V) to dispersion ({sigma}) exceeds unity. However, in the central 50 pc, the observations reveal a geometrically and optically thick structure of molecular gas (V/{sigma} < 1 and N{sub H} > 10{sup 23} cm{sup -2}) that is likelymore » to be associated with the outer extent of any smaller scale obscuring structure. In contrast to Seyfert galaxies, the molecular gas in LLAGNs has a V/{sigma} < 1 over an area that is {approx}9 times smaller and column densities that are on average {approx}3 times smaller. We interpret these results as evidence for a gradual disappearance of the nuclear obscuring structure. While a disk wind may not be able to maintain a thick rotating structure at these luminosities, inflow of material into the nuclear region could provide sufficient energy to sustain it. In this context, LLAGNs may represent the final phase of accretion in current theories of torus evolution. While the inflow rate is considerable during the Seyfert phase, it is slowly decreasing, and the collisional disk is gradually transitioning to become geometrically thin. Furthermore, the nuclear region of these LLAGNs is dominated by intermediate-age/old stellar populations (with little or no ongoing star formation), consistent with a late stage of evolution.« less

Increasing seismic activity at 9deg50'N on the East Pacific Rise RIDGE 2000 Integrated Studies Site from October 2003 through April 2004

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weekly, R. T.; Tolstoy, M.; Waldhauser, F.; Bohnenstiehl, D. R.; Kim, W.

2005-12-01

Monitoring of micro-seismicity within the bull's-eye region of the R2K ISS at 9deg49'N - 9deg51'N on the East Pacific Rise has been ongoing since October 2003. Results from the first deployment (October 2003 - April 2004) will be presented with hypocenters determined using relative-relocation techniques. Analysis shows that there is a gradual and ongoing increase in the rate of activity over the 7 months of the deployment. Mean event rates increase from 31 events/day for the first quarter of the deployment period, to 55, 105, and 131 events per day for the 2nd, 3rd and 4th quarters, respectively. This gradual increase in activity suggests long-term changes in the magma body or changes in the hydrothermal cracking front. Preliminary analysis and event counts for the 2004-2005 deployment will be presented to assess whether or not the build up in activity seen in 2003-2004 continued. Numerous brief swarms are observed throughout the deployment and their locations will be studied relative to temporal changes in the vent temperature monitoring as well as variations in the fluid chemistry (see Von Damm et al., same session). Early analysis suggests two dominant areas of recurrent activity, between M-vent and Bio-9 and between Bio-9 and Tube-worm pillar. The exceptionally well-characterized and monitored seafloor at this site allows for unprecedented correlation of observed seismic activity with local biology, geology, geochemical and hydrothermal monitoring. As results from different monitoring activities continue to come in, a detailed understanding of the linkages should emerge.

Gradual Incorporation of Whole Wheat Flour into Bread Products for Elementary School Children Improves Whole Grain Intake

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rosen, Renee A.; Sadeghi, Lelia; Schroeder, Natalia; Reicks, Marla M.; Marquart, Len

2008-01-01

Purpose: Whole grain intake is associated with health benefits but current consumption by children is only about one-third of the recommended level. The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility of an innovative approach whereby the whole wheat content of bread products in school lunches was gradually increased to increase whole grain…

[Smoking abstinence rate and its associated factors between abrupt and gradual smoking cessation].

PubMed

Hao, R; Zhou, J P; Ni, L; Li, Q Y; Shi, G C

2017-12-12

Objective: To analyze and compare the abstinence rate of smoking quitting methods and its associated factors between abrupt and gradual smoking cessation in smokers with drug-based therapy. Methods: A prospective clinical study was conducted in patients undergoing quitting smoking intervention in Ruijin Hospital smoking cessation clinic between June 2013 and May 2016. All the subjects were randomized in a 1∶1 ratio into the abrupt smoking cessation group (smoking as usual over 3 weeks before a planned quit day, and then stopping smoking abruptly) and the gradual smoking cessation group (gradually reducing tobacco use over 3 weeks before a planned quit day, and then stopping smoking totally). The primary outcome was the complete abstinence rate, and the secondary outcomes included 1-month, 3-month and 6 month 7-day point prevalence of abstinence rates and 3 month sustained abstinence rates. Changes of body weight and drug adverse events were also compared. Results: A total of 314 moderate to severe nicotine-dependent patients were admitted in the study, including 157 patients in the abrupt smoking cessation and 157 patients in the gradual smoking cessation group. Fourteen patients fell off during the follow-up. For the complete abstinence rate, the gradual smoking cessation group was higher than the abrupt smoking cessation group(55.0% vs . 36.9%, χ(2)=9.841, P =0.002) .For 7-d smoking abstinence rate in the 1st, 3rd, 6th month, there was no significant difference between the 2 groups (all P >0.05). As for the 3-month sustained abstinence rate, a higher smoking quitting rate was seen in the gradual smoking cessation group compared to the abrupt smoking cessation group in the 6-month follow-up (17.9% vs .8.7%, χ(2)=5.441, P =0.020). The adverse drug reaction incidence was higher in the abrupt smoking cessation group than the gradual smoking cessation group (Gastrointestinal discomfort: 39.2% vs . 17.7%, χ(2)=12.336, P =0.000; Dreaminess: 40.2% vs . 13.3%, χ(2

Hemodynamic changes in post-suspension rats during gradual hemorrhage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vinogradova, O. L.; Borovik, A. S.; Tsvirkoun, D. V.; Tarasova, O. S.

2005-08-01

In urethane-anasthetized rats the effects of 2-week tail suspension upon the hemodynamic changes during simulated orthostatism and during loss of blood were studied. Baseline values of mean arterial pressure (MAP) and pulse interval (PI) did not differ in cage control (C) and post-suspension rats (TS). In both groups 45o head-up tilt resulted in prominent decline of MAP. In C group this effect was followed by the compensatory phase, which was virtually lost in TS group. No significant postural changes of PI were observed. Gradual hemorrhage (30% blood loss during 30 min) resulted in similar MAP drop in C and TS (up to 40% of baseline level). Along with that, PI increase was less prominent in TS (25%) compared to C (60%) indicating higher resistance of the heart to hypovolemia after suspension.

An arterio-venous bridge for gradual weaning from adult veno-arterial extracorporeal life support.

PubMed

Babar, Z U D; Sharma, A S; Ganushchak, Y M; Delnoij, T S R; Donker, D W; Maessen, J G; Weerwind, P W

2015-11-01

Weaning from extracorporeal life support (ELS) is particularly challenging when cardiac recovery is slow, largely incomplete and hard to predict. Therefore, we describe an individualized gradual weaning strategy using an arterio-venous (AV) bridge incorporated into the circuit to facilitate weaning. Thirty adult patients weaned from veno-arterial ELS using an AV bridge were retrospectively analyzed. Serial echocardiography and hemodynamic monitoring were used to assess cardiac recovery and load responsiveness. Upon early signs of myocardial recovery, an AV bridge with an Hoffman clamp was added to the circuit and weaning was initiated. Support flow was reduced stepwise by 10-15% every 2 to 8 hours while the circuit flow was maintained at 3.5-4.5 L/min. The AV bridge facilitated gradual weaning in all 30 patients (median age: 66 [53-71] years; 21 males) over a median period of 25 [8-32] hours, with a median support duration of 96 [31-181] hours. During weaning, the median left ventricular ejection fraction was 25% [15-32] and the median velocity time integral of the aortic valve was 16 cm [10-23]. Through the weaning period, the mean arterial blood pressure was maintained at 70 mmHg and the activated partial thromboplastin time was 60 ± 10 seconds without additional systemic heparinization. Neither macroscopic thrombus formation in the ELS circuit during and after weaning nor clinically relevant thromboembolism was observed. Incorporation of an AV bridge for weaning from veno-arterial ELS is safe and feasible to gradually wean patients with functional cardiac recovery without compromising the circuit integrity. © The Author(s) 2015.

Varved sediments from Lake Czechowskie (Poland) reveal gradual increase in Atlantic influence during the Holocene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ott, Florian; Brauer, Achim; Słowiński, Michał; Wulf, Sabine; Putyrskaya, Victoria; Plessen, Birgit; Błaszkiewicz, Miroslaw

2015-04-01

Detailed micro-facies and geochemical analyses have been carried out for the predominantly varved Holocene sediment record of Lake Czechowskie (north-central Poland). The chronology has been established by a multiple dating approach comprising varve counting, AMS 14C dating, 137Cs activity concentration measurements and tephrochronology. The combination of independent dating techniques revealed well-constrained time scales even in phases lacking annual laminations and allows reliable high-resolution archive synchronization. Quantitative (varve thickness variations) and qualitative (sublayer structure) varve parameters as well as geochemical composition have been obtained to gain a comprehensive view of climatic and environmental evolution during the last 11500 years in northern Poland. Five major sedimentological changes have been identified, encompassing transitions from varved to non-varved sediments (and vice versa) at 10.100 and 7.300 cal a BP, respectively, changes in general varve pattern at 6.500 and 4.200 cal a BP and distinct increase of varve thickness accompanied by increased annual variability since 2.800 cal a BP. These changes reflect large-scale reorganization of the climate system throughout the Holocene with increasing influences of the North Atlantic climate system in Poland. Moreover, the observed changes suggest different thresholds and trigger mechanisms over the investigated time period. This study is a contribution to the Virtual Institute of Integrated Climate and Landscape Evolution Analyses - ICLEA - of the Helmholtz Association, grant number VH-VI-415.

Facilitation of learning induced by both random and gradual visuomotor task variation

PubMed Central

Braun, Daniel A.; Wolpert, Daniel M.

2012-01-01

Motor task variation has been shown to be a key ingredient in skill transfer, retention, and structural learning. However, many studies only compare training of randomly varying tasks to either blocked or null training, and it is not clear how experiencing different nonrandom temporal orderings of tasks might affect the learning process. Here we study learning in human subjects who experience the same set of visuomotor rotations, evenly spaced between −60° and +60°, either in a random order or in an order in which the rotation angle changed gradually. We compared subsequent learning of three test blocks of +30°→−30°→+30° rotations. The groups that underwent either random or gradual training showed significant (P < 0.01) facilitation of learning in the test blocks compared with a control group who had not experienced any visuomotor rotations before. We also found that movement initiation times in the random group during the test blocks were significantly (P < 0.05) lower than for the gradual or the control group. When we fit a state-space model with fast and slow learning processes to our data, we found that the differences in performance in the test block were consistent with the gradual or random task variation changing the learning and retention rates of only the fast learning process. Such adaptation of learning rates may be a key feature of ongoing meta-learning processes. Our results therefore suggest that both gradual and random task variation can induce meta-learning and that random learning has an advantage in terms of shorter initiation times, suggesting less reliance on cognitive processes. PMID:22131385

Assessing and Increasing Physical Activity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Van Camp, Carole M.; Hayes, Lynda B.

2012-01-01

Increasing physical activity is a crucial component of any comprehensive approach to combat the growing obesity epidemic. This review summarizes recent behavioral research on the measurement of physical activity and interventions aimed at increasing physical activity and provides directions for future research.

Monitoring gradual ecosystem change using Landsat time series analyses: case studies in selected forest and rangeland ecosystems

USGS Publications Warehouse

Vogelmann, James E.; Xian, George; Homer, Collin G.; Tolk, Brian

2012-01-01

The focus of the study was to assess gradual changes occurring throughout a range of natural ecosystems using decadal Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) and Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM +) time series data. Time series data stacks were generated for four study areas: (1) a four scene area dominated by forest and rangeland ecosystems in the southwestern United States, (2) a sagebrush-dominated rangeland in Wyoming, (3) woodland adjacent to prairie in northwestern Nebraska, and (4) a forested area in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Through analyses of time series data, we found evidence of gradual systematic change in many of the natural vegetation communities in all four areas. Many of the conifer forests in the southwestern US are showing declines related to insects and drought, but very few are showing evidence of improving conditions or increased greenness. Sagebrush communities are showing decreases in greenness related to fire, mining, and probably drought, but very few of these communities are showing evidence of increased greenness or improving conditions. In Nebraska, forest communities are showing local expansion and increased canopy densification in the prairie–woodland interface, and in the White Mountains high elevation understory conifers are showing range increases towards lower elevations. The trends detected are not obvious through casual inspection of the Landsat images. Analyses of time series data using many scenes and covering multiple years are required in order to develop better impressions and representations of the changing ecosystem patterns and trends that are occurring. The approach described in this paper demonstrates that Landsat time series data can be used operationally for assessing gradual ecosystem change across large areas. Local knowledge and available ancillary data are required in order to fully understand the nature of these trends.

The energetics of the gradual phase

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Strong, K. T.; Bentley, R. D.; Bornmann, P. L.; Bruner, M. E.; Cargill, P. J.; Doyle, J. G.; Lemen, J. R.; Pallavicini, R.; Peres, G.; Serio, S.

1986-01-01

Reseachers compare results with those in the chapter by Moore et al. (1980), who reached five main conclusions about the gradual phase: (1) the typical density of the soft X-ray emitting plasma is between 10 to the 11th power and 10 to the 12th power cm-3 for compact flares and between 10 to the 10th power and 10 to the 11th power cm-3 for a large-area flare; (2) cooling is by conduction and radiation in roughly equal proportions; (3) continual heating is needed in the decay phase of two-ribbon flares; (4) continual heating is probably not needed in compact events; (5) most of the soft-X-ray-emitting plasma results from chromospheric evaporation. The goal was to reexamine these problems with the data from the Solar Maximum Mission (SMM) and other supporting instruments as well as to take advantage of recent theoretical advances. SMM is capable of measuring coronal temperatures more accurately and with a better cadence than has been possible before. The SMM data set is also unique in that the complete transit of an active region was observed, with soft X-ray and UV images being taken every few minutes. Researcher's were therefore able to establish the pre-flare conditions of the region and see whether anything has changed as a result of the flare. The assumptions made in attempting to determine the required plasma parameters are described. The derived parameters for the five prime flares are presented, and the role of numerical simulations is discussed.

Simulating the Gradually Deteriorating Performance of an RTG

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wood, Eric G.; Ewell, Richard C.; Patel, Jagdish; Hanks, David R.; Lozano, Juan A.; Snyder, G. Jeffrey; Noon, Larry

2008-01-01

Degra (now in version 3) is a computer program that simulates the performance of a radioisotope thermoelectric generator (RTG) over its lifetime. Degra is provided with a graphical user interface that is used to edit input parameters that describe the initial state of the RTG and the time-varying loads and environment to which it will be exposed. Performance is computed by modeling the flows of heat from the radioactive source and through the thermocouples, also allowing for losses, to determine the temperature drop across the thermocouples. This temperature drop is used to determine the open-circuit voltage, electrical resistance, and thermal conductance of the thermocouples. Output power can then be computed by relating the open-circuit voltage and the electrical resistance of the thermocouples to a specified time-varying load voltage. Degra accounts for the gradual deterioration of performance attributable primarily to decay of the radioactive source and secondarily to gradual deterioration of the thermoelectric material. To provide guidance to an RTG designer, given a minimum of input, Degra computes the dimensions, masses, and thermal conductances of important internal structures as well as the overall external dimensions and total mass.

Gradual decline in mobility with the adoption of food production in Europe

PubMed Central

Ruff, Christopher B.; Holt, Brigitte; Niskanen, Markku; Sladek, Vladimir; Berner, Margit; Garofalo, Evan; Garvin, Heather M.; Hora, Martin; Junno, Juho-Antti; Schuplerova, Eliska; Vilkama, Rosa; Whittey, Erin

2015-01-01

Increased sedentism during the Holocene has been proposed as a major cause of decreased skeletal robusticity (bone strength relative to body size) in modern humans. When and why declining mobility occurred has profound implications for reconstructing past population history and health, but it has proven difficult to characterize archaeologically. In this study we evaluate temporal trends in relative strength of the upper and lower limb bones in a sample of 1,842 individuals from across Europe extending from the Upper Paleolithic [11,000–33,000 calibrated years (Cal y) B.P.] through the 20th century. A large decline in anteroposterior bending strength of the femur and tibia occurs beginning in the Neolithic (∼4,000–7,000 Cal y B.P.) and continues through the Iron/Roman period (∼2,000 Cal y B.P.), with no subsequent directional change. Declines in mediolateral bending strength of the lower limb bones and strength of the humerus are much smaller and less consistent. Together these results strongly implicate declining mobility as the specific behavioral factor underlying these changes. Mobility levels first declined at the onset of food production, but the transition to a more sedentary lifestyle was gradual, extending through later agricultural intensification. This finding only partially supports models that tie increased sedentism to a relatively abrupt Neolithic Demographic Transition in Europe. The lack of subsequent change in relative bone strength indicates that increasing mechanization and urbanization had only relatively small effects on skeletal robusticity, suggesting that moderate changes in activity level are not sufficient stimuli for bone deposition or resorption. PMID:26060299

The Gradual Transformation of the Polish Public Science System

PubMed Central

Heinecke, Steffi

2016-01-01

This paper investigates institutional change in the Polish public science system (PPSS) in the past twenty years. Employing macro-statistical data, the paper argues that this change process has unfolded stepwise and relatively late despite major political and economic transformations in post-socialist Poland. Using a historical-institutionalist perspective, the paper focuses on processes of institutional change, including layering, displacement, and dismantling. One major finding is that the speed and depth of the gradual transformation differs considerably between the three research performing sectors of the Polish public science system. As the Polish Academy of Sciences was reproduced institutionally, the former governmental units for applied R&D were partly dismantled and displaced by private sector R&D units. In contrast, the Higher Education sector underwent a strong expansion and, thus, layering of new research activities and fields. Since policy shifts within the PPSS occurred relatively late, the more than two decades following the collapse of communism are of special interest to scholars of incremental, yet cumulative, institutional change. PMID:27077386

Energy Spectra of Very Large Gradual Solar Particle Events

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-01-01

Proceedings of ICRC 2001: 1 c Copernicus Gesellschaft 2001 ICRC 2001 Energy Spectra of Very Large Gradual Solar Particle Events A.J. Tylka 1, C.M.S...Greenbelt, MD 20771, USA 6Department of Astronomy , University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742 USA Abstract. Energy spectra provide a powerful tool in

Formation of Large-scale Coronal Loops Interconnecting Two Active Regions through Gradual Magnetic Reconnection and an Associated Heating Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, Guohui; Chen, Yao; Zhu, Chunming; Liu, Chang; Ge, Lili; Wang, Bing; Li, Chuanyang; Wang, Haimin

2018-06-01

Coronal loops interconnecting two active regions (ARs), called interconnecting loops (ILs), are prominent large-scale structures in the solar atmosphere. They carry a significant amount of magnetic flux and therefore are considered to be an important element of the solar dynamo process. Earlier observations showed that eruptions of ILs are an important source of CMEs. It is generally believed that ILs are formed through magnetic reconnection in the high corona (>150″–200″), and several scenarios have been proposed to explain their brightening in soft X-rays (SXRs). However, the detailed IL formation process has not been fully explored, and the associated energy release in the corona still remains unresolved. Here, we report the complete formation process of a set of ILs connecting two nearby ARs, with successive observations by STEREO-A on the far side of the Sun and by SDO and Hinode on the Earth side. We conclude that ILs are formed by gradual reconnection high in the corona, in line with earlier postulations. In addition, we show evidence that ILs brighten in SXRs and EUVs through heating at or close to the reconnection site in the corona (i.e., through the direct heating process of reconnection), a process that has been largely overlooked in earlier studies of ILs.

LONG DURATION FLARE EMISSION: IMPULSIVE HEATING OR GRADUAL HEATING?

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

Qiu, Jiong; Longcope, Dana W.

Flare emissions in X-ray and EUV wavelengths have previously been modeled as the plasma response to impulsive heating from magnetic reconnection. Some flares exhibit gradually evolving X-ray and EUV light curves, which are believed to result from superposition of an extended sequence of impulsive heating events occurring in different adjacent loops or even unresolved threads within each loop. In this paper, we apply this approach to a long duration two-ribbon flare SOL2011-09-13T22 observed by the Atmosphere Imaging Assembly (AIA). We find that to reconcile with observed signatures of flare emission in multiple EUV wavelengths, each thread should be heated inmore » two phases, an intense impulsive heating followed by a gradual, low-rate heating tail that is attenuated over 20–30 minutes. Each AIA resolved single loop may be composed of several such threads. The two-phase heating scenario is supported by modeling with both a zero-dimensional and a 1D hydrodynamic code. We discuss viable physical mechanisms for the two-phase heating in a post-reconnection thread.« less

Three-dimensional numerical simulation of gradual opening in a wave rotor passage

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Larosiliere, Louis M.

1993-01-01

The evolution of the contact interface and the propagation of compression waves inside a single wave rotor passage gradually opening to and traversing an inlet port is studied numerically using an inviscid formulation of the governing equations. Insights into the response of the interface and kinematics of the flow field to various opening times are given. Since the opening time is inversely proportional to the rotational speed of the rotor, the effects of passage rotation such as centripetal and Coriolis accelerations are intrinsically coupled to the gradual opening process. Certain three-dimensional features associated with the gradual opening process as a result of centripetal and Coriolis accelerations are illustrated. For the range of opening times or rotational speeds considered, a portion of the interface behaves like a vortex sheet that can degenerate into a complex interfacial structure. The vortices produced along the interface can serve as a stirring mechanism to promote local mixing. Coriolis and centripetal accelerations can introduce three dimensional effects such as interfacial distortions in meridional planes and spanwise migration of fluid elements.

Gradual downhill running improves age-related skeletal muscle and bone weakness: implication of autophagy and bone morphogenetic proteins.

PubMed

Kim, Jeong-Seok; Lee, Young-Hee; Yi, Ho-Keun

2016-12-01

What is the central question of this study? Exercise training by running has an effect on age-related muscle and bone wasting that improves physical activity and quality of life in the elderly. However, the effect of downhill running on age-related muscle and bone wasting, and its mechanisms, are unclear. What is the main finding and its importance? Gradual downhill running can improve skeletal muscle growth and bone formation by enhancing autophagy and bone morphogenetic protein signalling in aged rats. Therefore, downhill running exercise might be a practical intervention to improve skeletal muscle and bone protection in the elderly. Recent evidence suggests that autophagy and the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling pathway regulate skeletal muscle growth and bone formation in aged rats. However, the effect of downhill running on muscle growth and bone formation is not well understood. Thus, we investigated the effect of downhill and uphill running on age-related muscle and bone weakness. Young and late middle-aged rats were randomly assigned to control groups (young, YC; and late middle-aged, LMC) and two types of running training groups (late middle-aged downhill, LMD; and late middle-aged uphill, LMU). Training was progressively carried out on a treadmill at a speed of 21 m min -1 with a slope of +10 deg for uphill training versus 16 m min -1 with a slope of -16 deg for downhill training, both for 60 min day -1 , 5 days week -1 for 8 weeks. Downhill and uphill training increased autophagy-related protein 5, microtubule-associated protein light chain, Beclin-1 and p62 proteins in aged rats. In addition, superoxide dismutase, haem oxygenase-1 and the BMP signalling pathway were elevated. Phosphorylation of mammalian target of rapamycin and myogenic differentiation were increased significantly in the LMD and LMU groups. Consequently, in the femur, BMP-2, BMP-7 and autophagy molecules were highly expressed in the LMD and LMU groups. These results

Free surface profiles in river flows: Can standard energy-based gradually-varied flow computations be pursued?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cantero, Francisco; Castro-Orgaz, Oscar; Garcia-Marín, Amanda; Ayuso, José Luis; Dey, Subhasish

2015-10-01

Is the energy equation for gradually-varied flow the best approximation for the free surface profile computations in river flows? Determination of flood inundation in rivers and natural waterways is based on the hydraulic computation of flow profiles. This is usually done using energy-based gradually-varied flow models, like HEC-RAS, that adopts a vertical division method for discharge prediction in compound channel sections. However, this discharge prediction method is not so accurate in the context of advancements over the last three decades. This paper firstly presents a study of the impact of discharge prediction on the gradually-varied flow computations by comparing thirteen different methods for compound channels, where both energy and momentum equations are applied. The discharge, velocity distribution coefficients, specific energy, momentum and flow profiles are determined. After the study of gradually-varied flow predictions, a new theory is developed to produce higher-order energy and momentum equations for rapidly-varied flow in compound channels. These generalized equations enable to describe the flow profiles with more generality than the gradually-varied flow computations. As an outcome, results of gradually-varied flow provide realistic conclusions for computations of flow in compound channels, showing that momentum-based models are in general more accurate; whereas the new theory developed for rapidly-varied flow opens a new research direction, so far not investigated in flows through compound channels.

Urinary retention: benefit of gradual bladder decompression - myth or truth? A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Boettcher, S; Brandt, A S; Roth, S; Mathers, M J; Lazica, D A

2013-01-01

Urinary retention is a common emergency requiring immediate catheterization. Gradual decompression (GD) of the extended bladder is believed to minimize the risk of complications such as bleeding or circulatory collapse, but to date it has not been compared with rapid decompression (RD) in controlled trials. Male patients presenting with urinary retention (n = 294) were randomized to rapid or gradual catheterization. For the latter, the transurethral catheter was clamped for 5 min after every 200-ml outflow until the bladder was completely empty. Patients were monitored for at least 30 min thereafter with regular checks of vital signs and presence of macroscopic hematuria. Of 294 patients, 142 (48.3%) were randomized to the GD and 152 (51.7%) to the RD group. Both groups showed no statistically significant difference with regard to age, anticoagulation treatment, catheter size and material, or volume retained. Hematuria occurred in 16 (11.3%) of the GD and 16 (10.5%) of the RD group; 6 patients in the former and 4 in the latter required further treatment. No circulatory collapse occurred. We noted a decrease in the previously raised blood pressure and heart rate in both groups, although without clinical significance. In this first randomized trial, no statistically significant difference was noted between gradual and rapid emptying of the bladder for urinary retention. Gradual emptying did not reduce the risk of hematuria or circulatory collapse. Therefore, there is no need to prefer gradual over rapid emptying, which is both easy and safe. © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel.

The use of a silicon sheet for gradual wound closure after fasciotomy.

PubMed

Walker, Tobias; Gruler, Miriam; Ziemer, Gerhard; Bail, Dorothee H L

2012-06-01

We present a silicon sheet for temporary wound covering and gradual wound closure after open fasciotomy. Fasciotomy was performed in a total of 70 limbs with compartment syndrome (CS). The main etiology of CS was predominantly vascular. All patients were treated with a silicon sheet to cover the soft tissue defect and gradually reapproximate the skin margins. In 53% of the patients, a delayed final wound closure was achieved after a mean of 11.9 days. This method allows final closure of fasciotomy wounds without scar contractures, marginal necrosis, infection, or significant pain. Copyright © 2012 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

[Four-stage gradual expanding approach of problem based learning in otorhinolaryngology].

PubMed

Kong, Weijia; Wang, Yanjun; Yue, Jianxin; Chen, Jianjun; Peng, Yixiang; Zhang, Sulin; Zhang, Xiaomeng

2008-08-01

The aim of the study is to cover the shortages of PBL, such as time-consuming, abstract, lacking of the course of clinic practice, and to introduce PBL to the teaching of otorhinolaryngology. By the improvement of the international classic teaching model of PBL, we put forward "four-stage gradual expanding approach of PBL" and establish "four-stage gradual expanding approach of PBL in otorhinolaryngology". Through the four stages of watching PBL, simulation PBL, internship PBL, practice PBL, we have accomplished the organic integration of theory teaching and clinical practice. This teaching method is more adaptive to the teaching of otorhinolaryngology, and it can help the medicine students to establish the whole concept of medicine and can stimulate them to form the good habits of self-regulated learning and life-long learning efficiently.

A Western-like fat diet is sufficient to induce a gradual enhancement in fat mass over generations.

PubMed

Massiera, Florence; Barbry, Pascal; Guesnet, Philippe; Joly, Aurélie; Luquet, Serge; Moreilhon-Brest, Chimène; Mohsen-Kanson, Tala; Amri, Ez-Zoubir; Ailhaud, Gérard

2010-08-01

The prevalence of obesity has steadily increased over the last few decades. During this time, populations of industrialized countries have been exposed to diets rich in fat with a high content of linoleic acid and a low content of alpha-linolenic acid compared with recommended intake. To assess the contribution of dietary fatty acids, male and female mice fed a high-fat diet (35% energy as fat, linoleic acid:alpha-linolenic acid ratio of 28) were mated randomly and maintained after breeding on the same diet for successive generations. Offspring showed, over four generations, a gradual enhancement in fat mass due to combined hyperplasia and hypertrophy with no change in food intake. Transgenerational alterations in adipokine levels were accompanied by hyperinsulinemia. Gene expression analyses of the stromal vascular fraction of adipose tissue, over generations, revealed discrete and steady changes in certain important players, such as CSF3 and Nocturnin. Thus, under conditions of genome stability and with no change in the regimen over four generations, we show that a Western-like fat diet induces a gradual fat mass enhancement, in accordance with the increasing prevalence of obesity observed in humans.

Comparison of gradual and rapid onset runs in a short-arm centrifugation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyamoto, A.; Saga, K.; Kinoue, T.; Nakazato, T.; Hirayanagi, K.; Yajima, K.; Hayashi, S.; Matsumoto, S.

A gradual onset run (GOR) in a short-arm centrifugation was performed on ten healthy students. The centrifuge had a 1.8 m radius, and the subjects sat on a chair in a cabin. The Gz force increased to 2.2 Gz at 0.1 °/sec 2 for 32 min. and the same Gz-level was maintained for 20 min. Three out of ten subjects completed the whole protocol; the load on the others was terminated because of symptoms or increased heart rate. There were few symptoms such as vertigo, that was a common problem with a rapid onset run (ROR) in former experiments, due to the short-arm centrifugation. The changes of the flicker test after the load were much less in the GOR protocol than in the ROR protocol, even in the terminated group. GOR seemed preferable to ROR in preventing vertigo even though it took longer to reach the necessary G load.

An increase in pectin methyl esterase activity accompanies dormancy breakage and germination of yellow cedar seeds.

PubMed

Ren, C; Kermode, A R

2000-09-01

Pectin methyl esterase (PME) (EC 3.1.1.11) catalyzes the hydrolysis of methylester groups of cell wall pectins. We investigated the role of this enzyme in dormancy termination and germination of yellow cedar (Chamaecyparis nootkatensis [D. Don] Spach) seeds. PME activity was not detected in dormant seeds of yellow cedar but was induced and gradually increased during moist chilling; high activity coincided with dormancy breakage and germination. PME activity was positively correlated to the degree of dormancy breakage of yellow cedar seeds. The enzyme produced in different seed parts and in seeds at different times during moist chilling, germination, and early post-germinative growth consisted of two isoforms, both basic with isoelectric points of 8.7 and 8.9 and the same molecular mass of 62 kD. The pH optimum for the enzyme was between 7.4 and 8.4. In intact yellow cedar seeds, activities of the two basic isoforms of PME that were induced in embryos and in megagametophytes following dormancy breakage were significantly suppressed by abscisic acid. Gibberellic acid had a stimulatory effect on the activities of these isoforms in embryos and megagametophytes of intact seeds at the germinative stage. We hypothesize that PME plays a role in weakening of the megagametophyte, allowing radicle emergence and the completion of germination.

Witnessing the Gradual Slowdown of Powerful Extragalactic Jets: The X-Ray-Optical-Radio Connection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Georganopoulos, Markos; Kazanas, Demosthenes

2004-01-01

A puzzling feature of the Chandra-detected quasar jets is that their X-ray emission decreases faster along the jet than their radio emission, resulting from an outward-increasing radio-to-X-ray ratio. In some sources this behavior is so extreme that the radio emission peak is located clearly downstream of that of the X-rays. This is a rather unanticipated behavior given that the inverse Compton nature of the X-rays and the synchrotron radio emission are attributed to roughly the same electrons of the jet's nonthermal electron distribution. In this letter we show that this morphological behavior can result from the gradual deceleration of a relativistic flow and that the offsets in peak emission at different wavelengths carry the imprint of this deceleration. This notion is consistent with another recent finding, namely, that the jets feeding the terminal hot spots of powerful radio galaxies and quasars are still relativistic with Lorentz factors GAMMA approximately 2-3. The picture of the kinematics of powerful jets emerging from these considerations is that they remain relativistic as they gradually decelerate from kiloparsec scales to the hot spots, where, in a final collision with the intergalactic medium, they slow down rapidly to the subrelativistic velocities of the hot spot advance speed.

Abrupt strategy change underlies gradual performance change: Bayesian hierarchical models of component and aggregate strategy use.

PubMed

Wynton, Sarah K A; Anglim, Jeromy

2017-10-01

While researchers have often sought to understand the learning curve in terms of multiple component processes, few studies have measured and mathematically modeled these processes on a complex task. In particular, there remains a need to reconcile how abrupt changes in strategy use can co-occur with gradual changes in task completion time. Thus, the current study aimed to assess the degree to which strategy change was abrupt or gradual, and whether strategy aggregation could partially explain gradual performance change. It also aimed to show how Bayesian methods could be used to model the effect of practice on strategy use. To achieve these aims, 162 participants completed 15 blocks of practice on a complex computer-based task-the Wynton-Anglim booking (WAB) task. The task allowed for multiple component strategies (i.e., memory retrieval, information reduction, and insight) that could also be aggregated to a global measure of strategy use. Bayesian hierarchical models were used to compare abrupt and gradual functions of component and aggregate strategy use. Task completion time was well-modeled by a power function, and global strategy use explained substantial variance in performance. Change in component strategy use tended to be abrupt, whereas change in global strategy use was gradual and well-modeled by a power function. Thus, differential timing of component strategy shifts leads to gradual changes in overall strategy efficiency, and this provides one reason for why smooth learning curves can co-occur with abrupt changes in strategy use. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Clinical and pharmacokinetic results with a new ultrashort-acting calcium antagonist, clevidipine, following gradually increasing intravenous doses to healthy volunteers

PubMed Central

Ericsson, H; Fakt, C; Jolin-Mellgård, Å; Nordlander, M; Sohtell, L; Sunzel, M; Regårdh, C G

1999-01-01

Aims To investigate the tolerability and safety of clevidipine in healthy male volunteers during intravenous infusion at gradually increasing dose rates and to obtain preliminary information on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic effects of the drug. Methods Twenty-five subjects were enrolled in the study and twenty-one of them were included twice, resulting in a total of forty-six study entries encompassing 20 min infusions of clevidipine at target dose rates ranging from 0.12 to 48 nmol min−1 kg−1. Haemodynamic variables and adverse events were recorded throughout the study. Concentrations of clevidipine and its primary metabolite, H 152/81, were followed in whole blood, and the pharmacokinetics were evaluated by non-compartmental and compartmental analysis. An Emax model was fitted to the effect on mean arterial pressure (MAP) over heart rate (HR) and the corresponding blood concentrations of clevidipine. Results Clevidipine was administered up to a target dose rate of 48 nmol min−1 kg−1, where a pre-determined escape criterion was reached (HR>120 beats min−1) and the study was stopped. The most common adverse events were flush and headache, which can be directly related to the mechanism of action of clevidipine. There was a linear relationship between blood concentration and dose rate in the range studied. The median clearance value determined by non-compartmental analysis was 0.125 l min−1 kg−1. Applying the population approach to the sparse data on clevidipine concentrations, an open two compartment pharmacokinetic model was found to be the best model in describing the disposition of the drug. The population mean clearance value determined by this method was 0.121 l min−1 kg−1, and the volume of distribution at steady state was 0.56 l kg−1. The initial half-life, contributing by more than 80% to the total area under the blood concentration-time curve following i.v. bolus administration, was 1.8 min, and the terminal half-life was 9

Improved multi-level capability in Si3N4-based resistive switching memory using continuous gradual reset switching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Sungjun; Park, Byung-Gook

2017-01-01

In this letter, we compare three different types of reset switching behavior in a bipolar resistive random-access memory (RRAM) system that is housed in a Ni/Si3N4/Si structure. The abrupt, step-like gradual and continuous gradual reset transitions are largely determined by the low-resistance state (LRS). For abrupt reset switching, the large conducting path shows ohmic behavior or has a weak nonlinear current-voltage (I-V) characteristics in the LRS. For gradual switching, including both the step-like and continuous reset types, trap-assisted direct tunneling is dominant in the low-voltage regime, while trap-assisted Fowler-Nordheim tunneling is dominant in the high-voltage regime, thus causing nonlinear I-V characteristics. More importantly, we evaluate the multi-level capabilities of the two different gradual switching types, including both step-like and continuous reset behavior, using identical and incremental voltage conditions. Finer control of the conductance level with good uniformity is achieved in continuous gradual reset switching when compared to that in step-like gradual reset switching. For continuous reset switching, a single conducting path, which initially has a tunneling gap, gradually responds to pulses with even and identical amplitudes, while for step-like reset switching, the multiple conducting paths only respond to incremental pulses to obtain effective multi-level states.

Short-term carbon cycling responses of a mature eucalypt woodland to gradual stepwise enrichment of atmospheric CO2 concentration.

PubMed

Drake, John E; Macdonald, Catriona A; Tjoelker, Mark G; Crous, Kristine Y; Gimeno, Teresa E; Singh, Brajesh K; Reich, Peter B; Anderson, Ian C; Ellsworth, David S

2016-01-01

Projections of future climate are highly sensitive to uncertainties regarding carbon (C) uptake and storage by terrestrial ecosystems. The Eucalyptus Free-Air CO2 Enrichment (EucFACE) experiment was established to study the effects of elevated atmospheric CO2 concentrations (eCO2 ) on a native mature eucalypt woodland with low fertility soils in southeast Australia. In contrast to other FACE experiments, the concentration of CO2 at EucFACE was increased gradually in steps above ambient (+0, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 150 ppm CO2 above ambient of ~400 ppm), with each step lasting approximately 5 weeks. This provided a unique opportunity to study the short-term (weeks to months) response of C cycle flux components to eCO2 across a range of CO2 concentrations in an intact ecosystem. Soil CO2 efflux (i.e., soil respiration or Rsoil ) increased in response to initial enrichment (e.g., +30 and +60 ppm CO2 ) but did not continue to increase as the CO2 enrichment was stepped up to higher concentrations. Light-saturated photosynthesis of canopy leaves (Asat ) also showed similar stimulation by elevated CO2 at +60 ppm as at +150 ppm CO2 . The lack of significant effects of eCO2 on soil moisture, microbial biomass, or activity suggests that the increase in Rsoil likely reflected increased root and rhizosphere respiration rather than increased microbial decomposition of soil organic matter. This rapid increase in Rsoil suggests that under eCO2, additional photosynthate was produced, transported belowground, and respired. The consequences of this increased belowground activity and whether it is sustained through time in mature ecosystems under eCO2 are a priority for future research. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Enhanced malignant transformation is accompanied by increased survival recovery after ionizing radiation in Chinese hamster embryo fibroblasts

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

Boothman, D.A.

Transformed Chinese hamster embryo fibroblasts (CHEF), which gradually increase in tumor-forming ability in nude mice, were isolated from normal diploid CHEF/18 cells. Transformed CHEF cells (i.e., T30-4 > 21-2M3 > 21-2 > normal CHEF/18) showed gradual increases in potentially lethal damage (PLD) survival recovery. {beta}-Lapachone and camptothecin, modulators of topoisomerase I (Topo I) activity, not only prevented survival recovery in normal as well as in tumor cells, but enhanced unscheduled DNA synthesis. These seemingly conflicting results are due to the fact that Topo I activity can be modulated by inhibitors to convert single-stranded DNA lesions into double-stranded breaks. Increases inmore » unscheduled DNA synthesis may result from a continual supply of free ends, on which DNA repair processes may act. Altering Topo I activity with modulators appears to increase X-ray lethality via a DNA lesion modification suicide pathway. Cells down-regulate Topo I immediately after ionizing radiation to prevent Topo I-mediated lesion modification and to enhance survival recovery. 16 refs., 3 figs., 1 tab.« less

Sustaining visual attention in the face of distraction: a novel gradual-onset continuous performance task.

PubMed

Rosenberg, Monica; Noonan, Sarah; DeGutis, Joseph; Esterman, Michael

2013-04-01

Sustained attention is a fundamental aspect of human cognition and has been widely studied in applied and clinical contexts. Despite a growing understanding of how attention varies throughout task performance, moment-to-moment fluctuations are often difficult to assess. In order to better characterize fluctuations in sustained visual attention, in the present study we employed a novel continuous performance task (CPT), the gradual-onset CPT (gradCPT). In the gradCPT, a central face stimulus gradually transitions between individuals at a constant rate (1,200 ms), and participants are instructed to respond to each male face but not to a rare target female face. In the distractor-present version, the background distractors consist of scene images, and in the distractor-absent condition, of phase-scrambled scene images. The results confirmed that the gradCPT taxes sustained attention, as vigilance decrements were observed over the task's 12-min duration: Participants made more commission errors and showed increasingly variable response latencies (RTs) over time. Participants' attentional states also fluctuated from moment to moment, with periods of higher RT variability being associated with increased likelihood of errors and greater speed-accuracy trade-offs. In addition, task performance was related to self-reported mindfulness and the propensity for attention lapses in everyday life. The gradCPT is a useful tool for studying both low- and high-frequency fluctuations in sustained visual attention and is sensitive to individual differences in attentional ability.

Gradual Crossover from Subdiffusion to Normal Diffusion: A Many-Body Effect in Protein Surface Water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, Pan; Liang, Yihao; Xu, Qin; Mamontov, Eugene; Li, Jinglai; Xing, Xiangjun; Hong, Liang

2018-06-01

Dynamics of hydration water is essential for the function of biomacromolecules. Previous studies have demonstrated that water molecules exhibit subdiffusion on the surface of biomacromolecules; yet the microscopic mechanism remains vague. Here, by performing neutron scattering, molecular dynamics simulations, and analytic modeling on hydrated perdeuterated protein powders, we found water molecules jump randomly between trapping sites on protein surfaces, whose waiting times obey a broad distribution, resulting in subdiffusion. Moreover, the subdiffusive exponent gradually increases with observation time towards normal diffusion due to a many-body volume-exclusion effect.

The ketogenic diet: initiation at goal calories versus gradual caloric advancement.

PubMed

Bansal, Seema; Cramp, Laura; Blalock, Dan; Zelleke, Tesfaye; Carpenter, Jessica; Kao, Amy

2014-01-01

Inpatient initiation of the ketogenic diet has historically involved fasting followed by gradual advancement of calories and/or diet ratio. Complications during this initiation period are common. We sought to determine if the initiation of the diet at goal calories would reduce these complications while maintaining efficacy. Sixty patients were admitted to a tertiary care hospital for elective initiation of the ketogenic diet between October 2007 and January 2013. All patients were placed on a ketogenic diet initiation pathway. In 2010, the pathway was modified from gradual caloric advancement to initiation at goal calories. We selected 30 consecutive patients before and after the change for comparison. Each child's record was reviewed for the occurrence of hypoglycemia, number of days to reach full ketosis (defined as 4 + urine ketones), acidosis requiring commencement of sodium citrate, length of admission, and long-term efficacy. Both methods of initiation had similar rates of dehydration, vomiting, lethargy, and irritability. More patients initiated at goal received sodium citrate (P = 0.005); however, mean daily values of carbon dioxide were not significantly different. Onset of ketosis was slightly delayed (P = 0.009) in patients initiated at goal, but length of stay was not affected (P > 0.1). Hypoglycemia was uncommon and rates were similar between the groups. Efficacy at 3 months was better in patients initiated at full calories (P < 0.05). Initiation of the ketogenic diet full calories is a reasonable alternative to the current standard practice of gradual advancement of calories and/or diet ratio. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Sudden versus gradual pressure wean from Nasal CPAP in preterm infants: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Amatya, S; Macomber, M; Bhutada, A; Rastogi, D; Rastogi, S

2017-06-01

In preterm infants, nasal continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP) is widely used for treatment of respiratory distress syndrome. However, the strategies for successfully weaning infants off NCPAP are still not well defined and there remains considerable variation between the methods. The objective of this study is to determine whether gradual weaning of NCPAP pressure is more successful than sudden weaning off NCPAP to room air. A randomized controlled trial was conducted in a level 3 neonatal intensive care unit on 70 preterm neonates who were born between 26 and 32 weeks gestation and required NCPAP for at least 48 h. When infants were stable on NCPAP at 0.21 FiO 2 and 5 cm H 2 O positive end expiratory pressure, neonates were randomized to the gradual wean group (reduction in pressure by 1 cm every 8 h until 3 cm H 2 0 was reached) or to sudden wean group (one time NCPAP removal to room air). The primary outcome was a success at the first trial to wean to room air. Secondary outcomes were a number of trials, and weight and postmenstrual age (PMA) at the time of successful wean. Total number of days on NCPAP and length of stay (LOS) in the hospital were also compared between the groups. Of the 70 infants included in the study, 35 were randomized to sudden group and 33 infants to gradual group (2 excluded for protocol deviation). In sudden and gradual groups, 14 and 22 infants, respectively, were weaned successfully in the first attempt (P=0.03). The infants were successfully weaned at 32.7±1.7 weeks versus 33.1±2.4 weeks (P=0.39) PMA and at a weight of 1651±290 g versus 1589±398 g (P=0.46) in the sudden and gradual groups, respectively. The total number of days on NCPAP was 27±19 days versus 32±24 days (P=0.38) and LOS was 63±25 days versus 63±22 days (P=0.99) in the sudden and gradual groups, respectively. Gradual weaning method was more successful as compared to sudden weaning method in the initial trial off NCPAP. There was no

Chronic environmental stress enhances tolerance to seasonal gradual warming in marine mussels

PubMed Central

Múgica, Maria; Izagirre, Urtzi; Sokolova, Inna M.

2017-01-01

In global climate change scenarios, seawater warming acts in concert with multiple stress sources, which may enhance the susceptibility of marine biota to thermal stress. Here, the responsiveness to seasonal gradual warming was investigated in temperate mussels from a chronically stressed population in comparison with a healthy one. Stressed and healthy mussels were subjected to gradual temperature elevation for 8 days (1°C per day; fall: 16–24°C, winter: 12–20°C, summer: 20–28°C) and kept at elevated temperature for 3 weeks. Healthy mussels experienced thermal stress and entered the time-limited survival period in the fall, became acclimated in winter and exhibited sublethal damage in summer. In stressed mussels, thermal stress and subsequent health deterioration were elicited in the fall but no transition into the critical period of time-limited survival was observed. Stressed mussels did not become acclimated to 20°C in winter, when they experienced low-to-moderate thermal stress, and did not experience sublethal damage at 28°C in summer, showing instead signs of metabolic rate depression. Overall, although the thermal threshold was lowered in chronically stressed mussels, they exhibited enhanced tolerance to seasonal gradual warming, especially in summer. These results challenge current assumptions on the susceptibility of marine biota to the interactive effects of seawater warming and pollution. PMID:28333994

One-shot versus gradual dilation technique for tract creation in percutaneous nephrolithotomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Li, Yutao; Yang, Lu; Xu, Peng; Shen, Pengfei; Qian, Shengqiang; Wei, Wuran; Wang, Jia

2013-10-01

The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of one-shot versus gradual dilation technique for tract creation in percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). A systematic research of Pubmed, Embase and the Cochrane Library was performed to identify all relevant studies. The quality of the included trials was assessed and the data were extracted independently by two reviewers. The Cochrane Collaboration's Review Manager (RevMan) 5.0.2 software was used for statistical analysis. Four randomized controlled trials were included in analysis involving 346 patients in total. Of these patients 174 were in the one-shot group and 172 in the gradual group. Our meta-analysis showed that there were no significant differences in successful dilation rate [risk ratio (RR): 0.96; 95 % confidence interval (CI): 0.92-1.00, p = 0.05], transfusion rate (RR: 0.62; 95 % CI: 0.20-1.96; p = 0.42), and hemoglobin decrease [mean difference (MD): -0.34; 95 % CI: from -0.67 to -0.00; p = 0.05] between one-shot dilation and gradual dilation. One-shot dilation had significant shorter access time (MD: -1.03; 95 % CI: from -1.57 to -0.49; p = 0.0002) and X-ray exposure time (MD: -42.71; 95 % CI: from -45.05 to -40.37; p < 0.00001) than gradual dilation. Our results show that One-shot dilation is an effective and safe procedure for tract creation in PCNL, with shorter access time and X-ray exposure time and without increased complications. As only four studies with small study populations were available, more high-quality larger trials with longer follow-up are recommended.

Time-series resolution of gradual nitrogen starvation and its impact on photosynthesis in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis PCC 6803.

PubMed

Krasikov, Vladimir; Aguirre von Wobeser, Eneas; Dekker, Henk L; Huisman, Jef; Matthijs, Hans C P

2012-07-01

Sequential adaptation to nitrogen deprivation and ultimately to full starvation requires coordinated adjustment of cellular functions. We investigated changes in gene expression and cell physiology of the cyanobacterium Synechocystis PCC 6803 during 96 h of nitrogen starvation. During the first 6 h, the transcriptome showed activation of nitrogen uptake and assimilation systems and of the core nitrogen and carbon assimilation regulators. However, the nitrogen-deprived cells still grew at the same rate as the control and even showed transiently increased expression of phycobilisome genes. After 12 h, cell growth decreased and chlorosis started with degradation of the nitrogen-rich phycobilisomes. During this phase, the transcriptome showed suppression of genes for phycobilisomes, for carbon fixation and for de novo protein synthesis. Interestingly, photosynthetic activity of both photosystem I (PSI) and photosystem II was retained quite well. Excess electrons were quenched by the induction of terminal oxidase and hydrogenase genes, compensating for the diminished carbon fixation and nitrate reduction activity. After 48 h, the cells ceased most activities. A marked exception was the retained PSI gene transcription, possibly this supports the viability of Synechocystis cells and enables rapid recovery after relieving from nitrogen starvation. During early recovery, many genes changed expression, supporting the resumed cellular activity. In total, our results distinguished three phases during gradual nitrogen depletion: (1) an immediate response, (2) short-term acclimation and (3) long-term survival. This shows that cyanobacteria respond to nitrogen starvation by a cascade of physiological adaptations reflected by numerous changes in the transcriptome unfolding at different timescales. Copyright © Physiologia Plantarum 2012.

Increased Spreading Activation in Depression

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Foster, Paul S.; Yung, Raegan C.; Branch, Kaylei K.; Stringer, Kristi; Ferguson, Brad J.; Sullivan, William; Drago, Valeria

2011-01-01

The dopaminergic system is implicated in depressive disorders and research has also shown that dopamine constricts lexical/semantic networks by reducing spreading activation. Hence, depression, which is linked to reductions of dopamine, may be associated with increased spreading activation. However, research has generally found no effects of…

Non-traumatic hemorrhage is controlled with REBOA in acute phase then mortality increases gradually by non-hemorrhagic causes: DIRECT-IABO registry in Japan.

PubMed

Matsumura, Y; Matsumoto, J; Idoguchi, K; Kondo, H; Ishida, T; Kon, Y; Tomita, K; Ishida, K; Hirose, T; Umakoshi, K; Funabiki, T

2017-08-22

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is now a feasible and less invasive resuscitation procedure. This study aimed to compare the clinical course of trauma and non-trauma patients undergoing REBOA. Patient demographics, etiology, bleeding sites, hemodynamic response, length of critical care, and cause of death were recorded. Characteristics and outcomes were compared between non-trauma and trauma patients. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was then conducted. Between August 2011 and December 2015, 142 (36 non-trauma; 106 trauma) cases were analyzed. Non-traumatic etiologies included gastrointestinal bleeding, obstetrics and gynecology-derived events, visceral aneurysm, abdominal aortic aneurysm, and post-abdominal surgery. The abdomen was a common bleeding site (69%), followed by the pelvis or extra-pelvic retroperitoneum. None of the non-trauma patients had multiple bleeding sites, whereas 45% of trauma patients did (P < 0.001). No non-trauma patients required resuscitative thoracotomy compared with 28% of the trauma patients (P < 0.001). Non-trauma patients presented a lower 24-h mortality than trauma patients (19 vs. 51%, P = 0.001). The non-trauma cases demonstrated a gradual but prolonged increased mortality, whereas survival in trauma cases rapidly declined (P = 0.009) with similar hospital mortality (68 vs. 64%). Non-trauma patients who survived for 24 h had 0 ventilator-free days and 0 ICU-free days vs. a median of 19 and 12, respectively, for trauma patients (P = 0.33 and 0.39, respectively). Non-hemorrhagic death was more common in non-trauma vs. trauma patients (83 vs. 33%, P < 0.001). Non-traumatic hemorrhagic shock often resulted from a single bleeding site, and resulted in better 24-h survival than traumatic hemorrhage among Japanese patients who underwent REBOA. However, hospital mortality increased steadily in non-trauma patients affected by non-hemorrhagic causes after a longer period of critical care.

Detecting gradual visual changes in colour and brightness agnosia: a double dissociation.

PubMed

Nijboer, Tanja C W; te Pas, Susan F; van der Smagt, Maarten J

2011-03-09

Two patients, one with colour agnosia and one with brightness agnosia, performed a task that required the detection of gradual temporal changes in colour and brightness. The results for these patients, who showed anaverage or an above-average performance on several tasks designed to test low-level colour and luminance (contrast) perception in the spatial domain, yielded a double dissociation; the brightness agnosic patient was within the normal range for the coloured stimuli, but much slower to detect brightness differences, whereas the colour agnosic patient was within the normal range for the achromatic stimuli, but much slower for the coloured stimuli. These results suggest that a modality-specific impairment in the detection of gradual temporal changes might be related to, if not underlie, the phenomenon of visual agnosia.

Investigation of pitch and angle in the gradual-triangle lenticular lens for point-blank LED fog lamp.

PubMed

Chen, Hsi-Chao; Yang, Chi-Hao

2014-05-10

The effects of different pitch and angle of gradual-triangle lenticular lens for the point-blank LED fog lamp were investigated under the standard of ECE R19. The novel LED fog lamp was assembled from a point-blank LED light source, a parabolic reflector, and a gradual-triangle lenticular lens. Light tracing analysis was used for the design of the gradual-triangle lenticular lens. The pitch, which varied from 1 to 6 mm, and the apex angle, which changed from 5 to 32 deg, were both investigated in regard to the gradual-triangle lenticular lens. The optimum pitch was 5 mm, and the efficiency of the lamp system and lenticular lens could reach 93% and 98.1% by simulation, respectively. The results of experiment had over 94%, which is similar to that of simulation by normalized cross correlation (NCC) for the light intensity.

Pectus carinatum: the effects of orthotic bracing on pulmonary function and gradual compression on patient compliance.

PubMed

Ateş, Oğuz; Karakuş, Osman Z; Hakgüder, Gülce; Olguner, Mustafa; Akgür, Feza M

2013-09-01

The treatment of pectus carinatum (PC) deformity has been considered to be operative. Some authors have shown that postoperative pulmonary function is worsened. They have suggested that compromised chest wall expansion secondary to surgery leads to compromised pulmonary function. Several authors have advocated an orthotic brace for the treatment of PC. Pulmonary functions after orthotic brace treatment have not been investigated. Between April 2006 and October 2012, 61 patients presented with PC. Orthotic braces allowing gradual compression were prepared according to the anthropometric measurements of individual patients. The brace belt was tightened gradually. The brace was worn 6 h a day during the first week and the bracing time was prolonged for an additional hour per week till 16 h per day has been reached. Pre- and post-treatment echocardiography, pulmonary function tests and thorax computed tomography (CT) were obtained. The pectus severity index (Haller index) and the angle of sternal rotation were measured using CT. Satisfaction from bracing was evaluated by parents or patients at the end of the treatment. While the mean pretreatment Haller index was 1.96 ± 0.24, the mean post-treatment index was 2.26 ± 0.32. The angle of rotation was improved by 47.5%. Forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 second were correlated with the predicted values for age. There was no statistically significant difference between pre- and post-treatment values. No skin breakdown or bruising was encountered. The overall average satisfaction score was 3.92 ± 0.27. We conclude that pulmonary function tests are not affected after brace treatment and gradual progression of bracing increases the patient's compliance.

Evaluation of the force generated by gradual deflection of orthodontic wires in conventional metallic, esthetic, and self-ligating brackets

PubMed Central

Francisconi, Manoela Fávaro; Janson, Guilherme; Henriques, José Fernando Castanha; de Freitas, Karina Maria Salvatore

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the deflection forces of Nitinol orthodontic wires placed in different types of brackets: metallic, reinforced polycarbonate with metallic slots, sapphire, passive and active self-ligating, by assessing strength values variation according to gradual increase in wire diameter and deflection and comparing different combinations in the different deflections. Material and Methods: Specimens were set in a clinical simulation model and evaluated in a Universal Testing Machine (INSTRON 3342), using the ISO 15841 protocol. Data were subjected to One-way ANOVA, followed by Tukey tests (p<0.05). Results: Self-ligating brackets presented the most similar behavior to each other. For conventional brackets there was no consistent behavior for any of the deflections studied. Conclusions: Self-ligating brackets presented the most consistent and predictable results while conventional brackets, as esthetic brackets, showed very different patterns of forces. Self-ligating brackets showed higher strength in all deflections when compared with the others, in 0.020-inch wires. PMID:27812620

Evaluation of the force generated by gradual deflection of orthodontic wires in conventional metallic, esthetic, and self-ligating brackets.

PubMed

Francisconi, Manoela Fávaro; Janson, Guilherme; Henriques, José Fernando Castanha; Freitas, Karina Maria Salvatore de

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the deflection forces of Nitinol orthodontic wires placed in different types of brackets: metallic, reinforced polycarbonate with metallic slots, sapphire, passive and active self-ligating, by assessing strength values variation according to gradual increase in wire diameter and deflection and comparing different combinations in the different deflections. Specimens were set in a clinical simulation model and evaluated in a Universal Testing Machine (INSTRON 3342), using the ISO 15841 protocol. Data were subjected to One-way ANOVA, followed by Tukey tests (p<0.05). Self-ligating brackets presented the most similar behavior to each other. For conventional brackets there was no consistent behavior for any of the deflections studied. Self-ligating brackets presented the most consistent and predictable results while conventional brackets, as esthetic brackets, showed very different patterns of forces. Self-ligating brackets showed higher strength in all deflections when compared with the others, in 0.020-inch wires.

The Gradual Increase of Responsibility: Scaffolds for Change

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Collet, Vicki S.

2011-01-01

My purpose in this collective case study was to identify ways in which teacher education, and coaching specifically, supports teacher change. I was particularly interested in considering what types of feedback are best at what times in the teacher education process. I investigated how coaching and other teacher education processes support…

Can gradual dose titration of ketamine for management of neuropathic pain prevent psychotomimetic effects in patients with advanced cancer?

PubMed

Okamoto, Yoshiaki; Tsuneto, Satoru; Tanimukai, Hitoshi; Matsuda, Yoichi; Ohno, Yumiko; Tsugane, Mamiko; Uejima, Etsuko

2013-08-01

Ketamine is often used to manage neuropathic pain in patients with cancer. However, it occasionally causes psychotomimetic effects such as vivid dreams, nightmares, illusions, hallucinations, and altered body image. To examine whether gradual dose titration of ketamine for management of neuropathic pain prevents psychotomimetic effects in patients with advanced cancer. This was a retrospective chart review. We administered ketamine when neuropathic pain in patients with advanced cancer became refractory to opioids and oral adjuvant analgesics. The starting dose of ketamine was 10 mg/d by continuous intravenous infusion. The dose was gradually increased by 10 mg/d every 4 to 6 hours to 50 mg/d or until the pain was relieved. It was subsequently increased by 25 mg/d every 12 to 24 hours until the pain was relieved. For this study, we enrolled 46 patients with advanced cancer. The mean age was 52.2 ± 16.9 years. The mean dose at onset of action and maximum dose of ketamine were 56 ± 58 and 272 ± 214 mg/d, respectively. The mean pain intensity (numerical rating scale) decreased significantly from 7.3 ± 2.0 to 3.5 ± 2.2 after the administration of ketamine (P < .01). The effectiveness was 69.5%. No psychotomimetic effect of less than 300 mg/d was observed during the introduction phase even though psychotropic drugs were not prescribed. Mild sedation was observed in 3 patients (7%) as the only adverse effect during the introduction phase. Gradual dose titration of ketamine for management of neuropathic pain can prevent psychotomimetic effects in patients with advanced cancer.

Perspectives on monitoring gradual change across the continuity of Landsat sensors using time-series data

USGS Publications Warehouse

Vogelmann, James; Gallant, Alisa L.; Shi, Hua; Zhu, Zhe

2016-01-01

There are many types of changes occurring over the Earth's landscapes that can be detected and monitored using Landsat data. Here we focus on monitoring “within-state,” gradual changes in vegetation in contrast with traditional monitoring of “abrupt” land-cover conversions. Gradual changes result from a variety of processes, such as vegetation growth and succession, damage from insects and disease, responses to shifts in climate, and other factors. Despite the prevalence of gradual changes across the landscape, they are largely ignored by the remote sensing community. Gradual changes are best characterized and monitored using time-series analysis, and with the successful launch of Landsat 8 we now have appreciable data continuity that extends the Landsat legacy across the previous 43 years. In this study, we conducted three related analyses: (1) comparison of spectral values acquired by Landsats 7 and 8, separated by eight days, to ensure compatibility for time-series evaluation; (2) tracking of multitemporal signatures for different change processes across Landsat 5, 7, and 8 sensors using anniversary-date imagery; and (3) tracking the same type of processes using all available acquisitions. In this investigation, we found that data representing natural vegetation from Landsats 5, 7, and 8 were comparable and did not indicate a need for major modification prior to use for long-term monitoring. Analyses using anniversary-date imagery can be very effective for assessing long term patterns and trends occurring across the landscape, and are especially good for providing insights regarding trends related to long-term and continuous trends of growth or decline. We found that use of all available data provided a much more comprehensive level of understanding of the trends occurring, providing information about rate, duration, and intra- and inter-annual variability that could not be readily gleaned from the anniversary date analyses. We observed that using all

Engineering web maps with gradual content zoom based on streaming vector data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Lina; Meijers, Martijn; Šuba, Radan; van Oosterom, Peter

2016-04-01

Vario-scale data structures have been designed to support gradual content zoom and the progressive transfer of vector data, for use with arbitrary map scales. The focus to date has been on the server side, especially on how to convert geographic data into the proposed vario-scale structures by means of automated generalisation. This paper contributes to the ongoing vario-scale research by focusing on the client side and communication, particularly on how this works in a web-services setting. It is claimed that these functionalities are urgently needed, as many web-based applications, both desktop and mobile, require gradual content zoom, progressive transfer and a high performance level. The web-client prototypes developed in this paper make it possible to assess the behaviour of vario-scale data and to determine how users will actually see the interactions. Several different options of web-services communication architectures are possible in a vario-scale setting. These options are analysed and tested with various web-client prototypes, with respect to functionality, ease of implementation and performance (amount of transmitted data and response times). We show that the vario-scale data structure can fit in with current web-based architectures and efforts to standardise map distribution on the internet. However, to maximise the benefits of vario-scale data, a client needs to be aware of this structure. When a client needs a map to be refined (by means of a gradual content zoom operation), only the 'missing' data will be requested. This data will be sent incrementally to the client from a server. In this way, the amount of data transferred at one time is reduced, shortening the transmission time. In addition to these conceptual architecture aspects, there are many implementation and tooling design decisions at play. These will also be elaborated on in this paper. Based on the experiments conducted, we conclude that the vario-scale approach indeed supports gradual

Reflecting on Talk: A Mentor Teacher's Gradual Release in Co-Planning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pylman, Stacey

2016-01-01

The goal of this case study was to explore how a mentor teacher used video-recorded co-planning sessions to reflect on and improve one's mentoring practice. Findings reveal ways in which the mentor used talk in co-planning sessions to model one's thinking process and to gradually release planning responsibility to engage the intern in learning to…

Evaluation of bone healing in femurs lengthened via the gradual distraction method.

PubMed

Jochymek, Jiri; Gal, Petr

2007-06-01

Treatment of leg length inequality via lengthening of the shorter extremity is an infrequent orthopedic procedure due to the requirement of special distraction devices and possible serious complications. Essential qualitative changes in operative technique development are associated with the name of G. A. Ilizarov, who paved the way for the autoregenerate gradual distraction method in the 1950s. In the years 1990 through 2006 a total of 57 patients underwent femur lengthening via gradual distraction using various types of external fixators at the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Orthopedics, and Traumatology, Faculty Hospital in Brno. The quality of bone healing was monitored and a number of parameters followed and statistically evaluated using regularly scheduled X-ray examinations. In 11 cases we had to remove the external fixator following the distraction phase, perform an osteosynthesis via a splint and fill the distraction gap via spongioplasty. The bone healing was satisfactory in the remaining 46 patients and the lengthened bone required no other fixation method. The analysis showed statistically significant deceleration in bone healing following distraction in female patients over 12 years of age, and in boys over 14 years of age. Lack of periosteal callus five weeks after surgery always signified serious problems in further healing. Severe complications were recorded in 11 cases during the distraction phase, and in 9 cases after the removal of the distraction apparatus. The aim of this report was to present the results of our study of distraction gap bone healing using the gradual lengthening approach.

Gradual unlocking of a plate boundary controlled the April 2014 M8.1 Iquique, Northern Chile megathrust earthquake

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schurr, B.; Hainzl, S.; Bedford, J. R.; Hoechner, A.; Wang, R.; Zhang, Y.; Oncken, O.; Palo, M.; Bartsch, M.; Moreno, M.; Tilmann, F. J.; Dahm, T.; Victor, P.; Barrientos, S. E.; Vilotte, J. P.

2014-12-01

On April 1st, 2014, Northern Chile, was struck by a magnitude 8.1 earthquake near the city of Iquique following a protracted series of foreshocks. The earthquake occurred within a seismic gap left behind by two great earthquakes devastating the northern Chilean and southern Peruvian coast about 140 years ago in 1868 and 1877. This segment, about 500 km long, was the only one along the Chilean subduction zone that has not ruptured within the last century. The Integrated Plate boundary Observatory Chile (IPOC) monitored the entire sequence of events, providing unprecedented resolution of the build-up to the main event and its rupture evolution. We analyzed the entire seismicity in this section of the subduction zone since 2007. The offshore rupture region of the Iquique event has been more or less continuously seismically active within our observation period. This is in contrast to the segments to the north and south, which are still unruptured and seismically quiet. Starting in July 2013, three foreshock clusters with increasingly larger magnitudes occurred within the future rupture area. The largest Mw 6.7 foreshock, two weeks before the mainshock, had a source mechanism distinctively different from the mainshock and with a centroid depth of only 9 km probably occurred in the upper plate. The Iquique mainshock initiated then at the northern end of the foreshock zone, inside a region of intermediate interseismic locking. Comparing the foreshock distribution to the long term deformation history of the margin, we find that the area exhibits a high gradient of locking from weakly locked updip to fully locked downdip. Mapping the b-value of the foreshocks indicates significantly lower b-values in the source area compared to all other regions where the b-value can be resolved. Importantly, a gradual drop of the b-value from about 0.75 to below 0.6 is observed in the source region within the three years before the Iquique earthquake. This has only been reversed within the

The time-adjusted gradual replacement injection method enables better visualization of the right heart.

PubMed

Nakahara, Takehiro; Jinzaki, Masahiro; Niwamae, Nogiku; Saito, Yuuichirou; Arai, Masashi; Tsushima, Yoshito; Kuribayashi, Sachio; Kurabayashi, Masahiko

2014-01-01

Despite the improvement of cardiac CT, right heart visualization remains challenging. We herein describe a new method, called the time-adjusted gradual replacement injection protocol. The aim of this study was to compare this protocol with the split-bolus injection protocol. Fifty-two patients who had undergone dual-source cardiac CT were retrospectively recruited. Twenty-six patients were injected by using the split-bolus injection protocol, and 26 patients were injected by using the time-adjusted gradual replacement injection protocol. For this method, we injected contrast medium for 10 seconds at a flow rate of 0.07 × body weight mL/s, then gradually replaced the contrast material with saline until 2 seconds before finishing the scans. The CT attenuation was measured in 4 chambers, the aorta, and the coronary arteries. The visualization of the anatomic structures and the occurrence and severity of streak artifacts were scored for the cardiac structures in the heart. For the analyses, either Welch t-test or Student t-test was performed. In the right heart, the CT values and visualization scores were significantly higher in the time-adjusted replacement injection group than in the split-bolus injection group, whereas the artifact scores were comparable between the 2 groups. The CT values, visualization scores, and artifact scores of the left heart were not significantly different between the 2 groups. In this study, the time-adjusted gradual replacement injection protocol provided excellent attenuation for visualization of the right heart. This method may help to accurately evaluate the right cardiac anatomy and thereby identify any potential diseases. Copyright © 2014 Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Source Regions of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field and Variability in Heavy-Ion Elemental Composition in Gradual Solar Energetic Particle Events

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ko, Yuan-Kuen; Tylka, Allan J.; Ng, Chee K.; Wang, Yi-Ming; Dietrich, William F.

2013-01-01

Gradual solar energetic particle (SEP) events are those in which ions are accelerated to their observed energies by interactions with a shock driven by a fast coronal mass-ejection (CME). Previous studies have shown that much of the observed event-to-event variability can be understood in terms of shock speed and evolution in the shock-normal angle. But an equally important factor, particularly for the elemental composition, is the origin of the suprathermal seed particles upon which the shock acts. To tackle this issue, we (1) use observed solar-wind speed, magnetograms, and the PFSS model to map the Sun-L1 interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) line back to its source region on the Sun at the time of the SEP observations; and (2) then look for correlation between SEP composition (as measured by Wind and ACE at approx. 2-30 MeV/nucleon) and characteristics of the identified IMF-source regions. The study is based on 24 SEP events, identified as a statistically-significant increase in approx. 20 MeV protons and occurring in 1998 and 2003-2006, when the rate of newly-emergent solar magnetic flux and CMEs was lower than in solar-maximum years and the field-line tracing is therefore more likely to be successful. We find that the gradual SEP Fe/O is correlated with the field strength at the IMF-source, with the largest enhancements occurring when the footpoint field is strong, due to the nearby presence of an active region. In these cases, other elemental ratios show a strong charge-to-mass (q/M) ordering, at least on average, similar to that found in impulsive events. These results lead us to suggest that magnetic reconnection in footpoint regions near active regions bias the heavy-ion composition of suprathermal seed ions by processes qualitatively similar to those that produce larger heavy-ion enhancements in impulsive SEP events. To address potential technical concerns about our analysis, we also discuss efforts to exclude impulsive SEP events from our event sample.

Monosodium iodoacetate-induced joint pain is associated with increased phosphorylation of mitogen activated protein kinases in the rat spinal cord.

PubMed

Lee, Younglim; Pai, Madhavi; Brederson, Jill-Desiree; Wilcox, Denise; Hsieh, Gin; Jarvis, Michael F; Bitner, Robert S

2011-05-20

Intra-articular injection of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) in the knee joint of rats disrupts chondrocyte metabolism resulting in cartilage degeneration and subsequent nociceptive behavior that has been described as a model of osteoarthritis (OA) pain. Central sensitization through activation of mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) is recognized as a pathogenic mechanism in chronic pain. In the present studies, induction of central sensitization as indicated by spinal dorsal horn MAPK activation, specifically ERK and p38 phosphorylation, was assessed in the MIA-OA model. Behaviorally, MIA-injected rats displayed reduced hind limb grip force 1, 2, and 3 weeks post-MIA treatment. In the same animals, activation of phospho ERK1/2 was gradually increased, reaching a significant level at post injection week 3. Conversely, phosphorylation of p38 MAPK was enhanced maximally at post injection week 1 and decreased, but remained elevated, thereafter. Double labeling from 3-wk MIA rats demonstrated spinal pERK1/2 expression in neurons, but not glia. In contrast, p-p38 was expressed by microglia and a subpopulation of neurons, but not astrocytes. Additionally, there was increased ipsilateral expression of microglia, but not astrocytes, in 3-wk MIA-OA rats. Consistent with increased MAPK immunoreactivity in the contralateral dorsal horn, mechanical allodynia to the contralateral hind-limb was observed 3-wk following MIA. Finally, intrathecal injection of the MEK1 inhibitor PD98059 blocked both reduced hind-limb grip force and pERK1/2 induction in MIA-OA rats. Results of these studies support the role of MAPK activation in the progression and maintenance of central sensitization in the MIA-OA experimental pain model.

A comparative study on oxidative stress response in the hepatopancreas and midgut of the white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei under gradual changes to low or high pH environment.

PubMed

Han, Si-Yin; Wang, Meng-Qiang; Wang, Bao-Jie; Liu, Mei; Jiang, Ke-Yong; Wang, Lei

2018-05-01

White shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei were reared under conditions of gradual changes to a low pH (gradual-low pH, 6.65-8.20) or a high pH (gradual-high pH, 8.20-9.81) versus a normal pH environment (8.14-8.31) during a 28-day period. Survival of shrimp, and ROS production, antioxidant responses and oxidative damage in the hepatopancreas and midgut were investigated. Consequently, shrimp enhanced MnSOD, GPx, and Hsp70 transcripts as early defense mechanism in the hepatopancreas and midgut to scavenge excessive ROS during short-term (≤ 7 days) gradual-low and high pH stress. Meanwhile, the hepatopancreas was more sensitive to ROS than midgut because of earlier ROS production increase, antioxidant response and oxidative damage. Then, suppressed antioxidant response in the hepatopancreas and midgut of shrimp suggested a loss of antioxidant regulatory capacity caused by aggravated oxidative damage after long-term (≥ 14 days) gradual-high pH stress, leading to continuous death. However, enhanced GPx, GST, and Hsp70 transcripts in the hepatopancreas and midgut might be long-term(≥ 14 days) antioxidant adaptation mechanism of shrimp to gradual-low pH stress, which could prevent further ROS perturbation and weaken oxidative damage to achieve a new immune homeostasis, contributing to stable survival rate. Therefore, we have a few insights that it is necessary to protect hepatopancreas for controlling shrimp death under gradual-high pH stress. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Thermal evaluation by infrared measurement of implant site preparation between single and gradual drilling in artificial bone blocks of different densities.

PubMed

Möhlhenrich, S C; Abouridouane, M; Heussen, N; Hölzle, F; Klocke, F; Modabber, A

2016-11-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of bone density and drilling protocol on heat generation during implant bed preparation. Ten single and 10 gradual implant sites with diameters of 2.8, 3.5, and 4.2mm were prepared in four artificial bone blocks (density types I-IV; D1-D4). Drilling was done at constant speed (1500rpm) and with external irrigation (50ml/min); vertical speed was set at 2mm/s. An infrared camera was used for temperature measurements. Significantly higher temperatures for single drilling were found between 2.8-mm drills in D1 (P=0.0014) and D4 (P<0.0001) and between 3.5-mm drills in D3 (P=0.0087) and D4 (P<0.0001), as well as between 4.2-mm drills in D1 (P<0.0001) and D4 (P=0.0014). Low bone density led to a thermal decrease after single drilling and a thermal increase after gradual drilling. Burs with a large diameter always showed a higher temperature generation. In comparisons between 2.8- and 4.2-mm diameters for both single and gradual drills, significant differences (P<0.001) were noted for bone types II, III, and IV. Single drilling could generate more heat than traditional sequential drilling, and bone density, as well as drill diameter, influenced thermal increases. Particularly in lower-density bone, conventional sequential drilling seems to raise the temperature less. Copyright © 2016 International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A gradual update method for simulating the steady-state solution of stiff differential equations in metabolic circuits.

PubMed

Shiraishi, Emi; Maeda, Kazuhiro; Kurata, Hiroyuki

2009-02-01

Numerical simulation of differential equation systems plays a major role in the understanding of how metabolic network models generate particular cellular functions. On the other hand, the classical and technical problems for stiff differential equations still remain to be solved, while many elegant algorithms have been presented. To relax the stiffness problem, we propose new practical methods: the gradual update of differential-algebraic equations based on gradual application of the steady-state approximation to stiff differential equations, and the gradual update of the initial values in differential-algebraic equations. These empirical methods show a high efficiency for simulating the steady-state solutions for the stiff differential equations that existing solvers alone cannot solve. They are effective in extending the applicability of dynamic simulation to biochemical network models.

Source Regions of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field and Variability in Heavy-Ion Elemental Composition in Gradual Solar Energetic Particle Events (Invited)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tylka, A. J.; Ko, Y.; Ng, C. K.; Wang, Y.; Dietrich, W. F.

2013-12-01

Gradual solar energetic particle (SEP) events are those in which ions are accelerated to their observed energies by interactions with a shock driven by a fast coronal mass-ejection (CME). Previous studies have shown that much of the observed event-to-event variability can be understood in terms of shock speed and evolution in the shock-normal angle. But an equally important factor, particularly for the elemental composition, is the origin of the suprathermal seed particles upon which the shock acts. To tackle this issue, we (1) use observed solar-wind speed, magnetograms, and the PFSS model to map the Sun-L1 interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) line back to its source region on the Sun at the time of the SEP observations; and (2) then look for correlation between SEP composition (as measured by Wind and ACE at ~2-30 MeV/nucleon) and characteristics of the identified IMF-source regions. The study is based on 24 SEP events, identified as a statistically-significant increase in ~20 MeV protons and occurring in 1998 and 2003-2006, when the rate of newly-emergent solar magnetic flux and CMEs was lower than in solar-maximum years and the field-line tracing is therefore more likely to be successful. We find that the gradual SEP Fe/O is correlated with the field strength at the IMF-source, with the largest enhancements occurring when the footpoint field is strong, due to the nearby presence of an active region. In these cases, other elemental ratios show a strong charge-to-mass (q/M) ordering, at least on average, similar to that found in impulsive events. These results lead us to suggest that magnetic reconnection in footpoint regions near active regions bias the heavy-ion composition of suprathermal seed ions by processes qualitatively similar to those that produce larger heavy-ion enhancements in impulsive SEP events. To address potential technical concerns about our analysis, we also discuss efforts to exclude impulsive SEP events from our event sample.

Exergames: Increasing Physical Activity through Effective Instruction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rudella, Jennifer L.; Butz, Jennifer V.

2015-01-01

Due to the growing obesity epidemic in the United States, educators must consider new ways to increase physical activity in an effort to address obesity. There are a variety of ways educators can increase physical activity in the classroom, and exergames--video games that require physical movement in order to play--are a modern-day approach to…

Increasing physician activity with treadmill desks.

PubMed

Thompson, Warren G; Koepp, Gabriel A; Levine, James A

2014-01-01

Prolonged sitting has been shown to increase mortality and obesity. We sought to determine whether physicians would use a treadmill desk, increase their daily physical activity and lose weight. 20 overweight and obese physicians aged 25 to 70 with Body Mass Index > 25. Participants used a treadmill desk, a triaxial accelerometer, and received exercise counseling in a randomized, cross-over trial over 24 weeks. Group 1 received exercise counseling, accelerometer feedback, and a treadmill desk for 12 weeks and then accelerometer only for 12 weeks. Group 2 received an accelerometer without feedback for 12 weeks followed by exercise counseling, accelerometer feedback, and the treadmill desk for 12 weeks. Daily physical activity increased while using the treadmill desk compared to not using the desk by 197 kcal per day (p=0.003). The difference in weight during the two 12 week periods was 1.85 kg (p=0.03). Percent body fat was 1.9% lower while using the treadmill desk (p=0.02). There were no differences in metabolic or well-being measures. This study suggests that physicians will use a treadmill desk, that it does increase their activity, and that it may help with weight loss. Further studies are warranted.

43 CFR 4110.3-1 - Increasing active use.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 43 Public Lands: Interior 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Increasing active use. 4110.3-1 Section... Qualifications and Preference § 4110.3-1 Increasing active use. When monitoring or documented field observations... forage is available, in proportion to their active use; and (2) To other qualified applicants under...

43 CFR 4110.3-1 - Increasing active use.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 43 Public Lands: Interior 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Increasing active use. 4110.3-1 Section... Qualifications and Preference § 4110.3-1 Increasing active use. When monitoring or documented field observations... forage is available, in proportion to their active use; and (2) To other qualified applicants under...

43 CFR 4110.3-1 - Increasing active use.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 43 Public Lands: Interior 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Increasing active use. 4110.3-1 Section... Qualifications and Preference § 4110.3-1 Increasing active use. When monitoring or documented field observations... forage is available, in proportion to their active use; and (2) To other qualified applicants under...

43 CFR 4110.3-1 - Increasing active use.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 43 Public Lands: Interior 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Increasing active use. 4110.3-1 Section... Qualifications and Preference § 4110.3-1 Increasing active use. When monitoring or documented field observations... forage is available, in proportion to their active use; and (2) To other qualified applicants under...

Discovery of a glowing millipede in California and the gradual evolution of bioluminescence in Diplopoda.

PubMed

Marek, Paul E; Moore, Wendy

2015-05-19

The rediscovery of the Californian millipede Xystocheir bistipita surprisingly reveals that the species is bioluminescent. Using molecular phylogenetics, we show that X. bistipita is the evolutionary sister group of Motyxia, the only genus of New World bioluminescent millipedes. We demonstrate that bioluminescence originated in the group's most recent common ancestor and evolved by gradual, directional change through diversification. Because bioluminescence in Motyxia has been experimentally demonstrated to be aposematic, forewarning of the animal's cyanide-based toxins, these results are contrary to aposematic theory and empirical evidence that a warning pattern cannot evolve gradually in unpalatable prey. However, gradual evolution of a warning pattern is plausible if faint light emission served another function and was co-opted as an aposematic signal later in the diversification of the genus. Luminescence in Motyxia stem-group taxa may have initially evolved to cope with reactive oxygen stress triggered by a hot, dry environment and was repurposed for aposematism by high-elevation crown-group taxa colonizing new habitats with varying levels of predation. The discovery of bioluminescence in X. bistipita and its pivotal phylogenetic location provides insight into the independent and repeated evolution of bioluminescence across the tree of life.

Gradual adaptation of bone structure to aquatic lifestyle in extinct sloths from Peru

PubMed Central

Amson, Eli; de Muizon, Christian; Laurin, Michel; Argot, Christine; de Buffrénil, Vivian

2014-01-01

Non-pathological densification (osteosclerosis) and swelling (pachyostosis) of bones are the main modifications affecting the skeleton of land vertebrates (tetrapods) that returned to water. However, a precise temporal calibration of the acquisition of such adaptations is still wanting. Here, we assess the timing of such acquisition using the aquatic sloth Thalassocnus, from the Neogene of the Pisco Formation, Peru. This genus is represented by five species occurring in successive vertebrate-bearing horizons of distinct ages. It yields the most detailed data about the gradual acquisition of aquatic adaptations among tetrapods, in displaying increasing osteosclerosis and pachyostosis through time. Such modifications, reflecting a shift in the habitat from terrestrial to aquatic, occurred over a short geological time span (ca 4 Myr). Otherwise, the bones of terrestrial pilosans (sloths and anteaters) are much more compact than the mean mammalian condition, which suggests that the osteosclerosis of Thalassocnus may represent an exaptation. PMID:24621950

Increased sternocleidomastoid, but not trapezius, muscle activity in response to increased chewing load.

PubMed

Häggman-Henrikson, Birgitta; Nordh, Erik; Eriksson, Per-Olof

2013-10-01

Previous findings, during chewing, that boluses of larger size and harder texture result in larger amplitudes of both mandibular and head-neck movements suggest a relationship between increased chewing load and incremental recruitment of jaw and neck muscles. The present report evaluated jaw (masseter and digastric) and neck [sternocleidomastoid (SCM) and trapezius] muscle activity during the chewing of test foods of different sizes and textures by 10 healthy subjects. Muscle activity was recorded by surface electromyography and simultaneous mandibular and head movements were recorded using an optoelectronic technique. Each subject performed continuous jaw-opening/jaw-closing movements whilst chewing small and large boluses of chewing gum and rubber silicone (Optosil). For jaw opening/jaw closing without a bolus, SCM activity was recorded for jaw opening concomitantly with digastric activity. During chewing, SCM activity was recorded for jaw closing concomitantly with masseter activity. Trapezius activity was present in some, but not all, cycles. For the masseter and SCM muscles, higher activity was seen with larger test foods, suggesting increased demand and recruitment of these muscles in response to an increased chewing load. This result reinforces the previous notion of a close functional connection between the jaw and the neck motor systems in jaw actions and has scientific and clinical significance for studying jaw function and dysfunction. © 2013 Eur J Oral Sci.

Activity promoting games and increased energy expenditure

PubMed Central

Lanningham-Foster, Lorraine; Foster, Randal C.; McCrady, Shelly K.; Jensen, Teresa B.; Mitre, Naim; Levine, James A.

2009-01-01

Objectives Children and adults spend large portions of their days in front of screens. Our hypothesis was that both children and adults would expend more calories and move more while playing activity-promoting video games compared to sedentary video games. Study Design In this single-group study, twenty-two healthy children (12 ± 2 years, 11 M, 11 F) and 20 adults (34 ± 11 years, 10 M, 10 F) were recruited. Energy expenditure and physical activity were measured while participants were resting, standing, watching television seated, sitting and playing a traditional sedentary video game, and while playing an activity-promoting video game (Nintendo® Wii™ Boxing). Physical activity was measured using accelerometers and energy expenditure was measured using an indirect calorimeter. Results Energy expenditure increased significantly above all activities when children or adults played Nintendo® Wii™ (mean increase over resting, 189 ± 63 kcal/hr, p < 0.001, and 148 ± 71 kcal/hr, p < 0.001, respectively). Upon examination of movement using accelerometry, children moved significantly more than adults (55 ± 5 AAU and 23 ± 2 AAU, respectively, p < 0.001) while playing Nintendo® Wii™. Conclusions Activity-promoting video games have the potential to increase movement and energy expenditure in children and adults. PMID:19324368

Increased alveolar plasminogen activator in early asbestosis

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

Cantin, A.; Allard, C.; Begin, R.

1989-03-01

Alveolar macrophage-derived plasminogen activator (PA) activity is decreased in some chronic interstitial lung diseases such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and sarcoidosis but increased in experimental models of acute alveolitis. Although asbestos fibers can stimulate alveolar macrophages (AM) to release PA in vitro, the effect of chronic asbestos exposure of the lower respiratory tract on lung PA activity remains unknown. The present study was designed to evaluate PA activity of alveolar macrophages and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid in asbestos-exposed sheep and asbestos workers. Forty-three sheep were exposed to either 100 mg UICC chrysotile B asbestos in 100 ml phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)more » or to 100 ml PBS by tracheal infusion every 2 wk for 18 months. At Month 18, chest roentgenograms were analyzed and alveolar macrophage and extracellular fluid PA activity were measured in samples obtained by BAL. Alveolar macrophage PA activity was increased in the asbestos-exposed sheep compared to control sheep (87.2 +/- 17.3 versus 41.1 +/- 7.2 U/10(5) AM-24 h, p less than 0.05) as was the BAL fluid PA activity (674.9 +/- 168.4 versus 81.3 +/- 19.7 U/mg alb-24 h, p less than 0.01). Among the asbestos-exposed sheep, 10 had normal chest roentgenograms (Group SA) and 15 had irregular interstitial opacities (Group SB). Strikingly, whereas Group SA did not differ from the control group in BAL cellularity or PA activity, Group SB had marked increases in alveolar macrophages (p less than 0.005), AM PA activity (p less than 0.02), and BAL PA activity (p less than 0.001) compared to the control group.« less

Comparative evaluation of oxidative enzyme activities during adventitious rooting in the cuttings of grapevine rootstocks.

PubMed

Kose, Cafer; Erdal, Serkan; Kaya, Ozkan; Atici, Okkeş

2011-03-15

This study investigated changes in peroxidase (POX) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activities through adventitious rooting in hardwood cuttings of grapevine rootstocks. Three grapevine rootstocks with different propensity to produce adventitious roots were selected: recalcitrant (Ramsey), non-recalcitrant (Rupestris du Lot) and intermediate (99R) cultivars. The averages of root number at 65 days were 96 in Lot, 76 in 99R and 30 in Ramsey. Both enzyme activities characteristically increased before adventitious rooting, regardless of rooting ability of the rootstocks, and then decreased. POX activity increased in Ramsey cuttings at 22 days, in Lot and 99R cuttings at 14 days after planting, and then decreased gradually until 51 days. The highest POX activity was determined in Ramsey rootstock with the highest rooting ability and the lowest activity was determined in the rootstocks with the lowest rooting ability. PPO activity gradually increased in Ramsey rootstock cuttings from 10 days to 22 days, in Lot and 99R cuttings at 14 days, and then decreased until 51 days. A significant correlation was identified between high POX activity and adventitious rooting capability in rootstocks, but the same result was not determined with PPO activity. A recalcitrant rooting variety cannot increase POX activity sufficiently before rooting. Therefore applications that could increase POX activity in stem cuttings during rooting may facilitate increased rooting in such rootstocks. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry.

Increased prolyl endopeptidase activity in human neoplasia.

PubMed

Larrinaga, Gorka; Perez, Itxaro; Blanco, Lorena; López, José I; Andrés, Leire; Etxezarraga, Carmen; Santaolalla, Francisco; Zabala, Aitor; Varona, Adolfo; Irazusta, Jon

2010-08-09

Prolyl endopeptidase (EC 3.4.21.26) (PEP) is a serine peptidase that converts several biologically active peptides. This enzyme has been linked to several neurological, digestive, cardiovascular and infectous disorders. However, little is known about its involvement in neoplastic processes. This study analyzes fluorimetrically cytosolic and membrane-bound PEP activity in a large series (n=122) of normal and neoplastic tissues from the kidney, colon, oral cavity, larynx, thyroid gland and testis. Cytosolic PEP activity significantly increased in clear cell renal cell carcinoma, urothelial carcinoma of the renal pelvis and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Both cytosolic and membrane-bound PEP activity were also increased in colorectal adenomatous polyps. These data suggest the involvement of PEP in some mechanisms that underlie neoplastic processes. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Stochastic seismic inversion based on an improved local gradual deformation method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Xiuwei; Zhu, Peimin

2017-12-01

A new stochastic seismic inversion method based on the local gradual deformation method is proposed, which can incorporate seismic data, well data, geology and their spatial correlations into the inversion process. Geological information, such as sedimentary facies and structures, could provide significant a priori information to constrain an inversion and arrive at reasonable solutions. The local a priori conditional cumulative distributions at each node of model to be inverted are first established by indicator cokriging, which integrates well data as hard data and geological information as soft data. Probability field simulation is used to simulate different realizations consistent with the spatial correlations and local conditional cumulative distributions. The corresponding probability field is generated by the fast Fourier transform moving average method. Then, optimization is performed to match the seismic data via an improved local gradual deformation method. Two improved strategies are proposed to be suitable for seismic inversion. The first strategy is that we select and update local areas of bad fitting between synthetic seismic data and real seismic data. The second one is that we divide each seismic trace into several parts and obtain the optimal parameters for each part individually. The applications to a synthetic example and a real case study demonstrate that our approach can effectively find fine-scale acoustic impedance models and provide uncertainty estimations.

Effect of Increasing the Choice of Active Options on Children’s Physical Activity

PubMed Central

Feda, Denise M.; Lambiase, Maya J.; McCarthy, Thomas F.; Barkley, Jacob E.; Roemmich, James. N.

2012-01-01

Objectives To determine whether increasing the choice of physical activity options increases the duration and intensity of children’s physically active play. Design This cross-sectional laboratory study included gender (male, female) and choice group [single toy (no choice), three toys (low choice), five toys (high choice)] as between participant factors. Methods Boys and girls (n = 36, 8–12 y) were stratified, randomly assigned to a choice group that always provided access to each participant’s most liked active toy(s), and allowed 60 min of free time. The same sedentary alternatives were freely available to all participants. Physical activity outcomes were measured by accelerometry, heart rate, and direct observation. Results The number of active toys the children played with increased (p < 0.001) across each choice group. Minutes spent in MPA were greater in the low choice (p < 0.05) and high choice (p < 0.02) groups than the no choice group. Active play time was greater (p < 0.01) in the low choice (79%) and high choice (95%) groups compared to the no choice group. Girls in the low and high choice groups had greater (p < 0.05) percent heart rate reserve when compared to girls in the no choice group. There was no difference in the boys’ percent heart rate reserve between the no choice, low choice and high choice groups. Conclusions Increasing the choice of active toys increases both the duration and intensity of physically active play, especially in girls. PMID:22342111

Differential degradation of motor deficits during gradual dopamine depletion with 6-hydroxydopamine in mice

PubMed Central

Willard, Amanda M.; Bouchard, Rachel S.; Gittis, Aryn H.

2015-01-01

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a movement disorder whose cardinal motor symptoms arise due to the progressive loss of dopamine. Although this dopamine loss typically progresses slowly over time, currently there are very few animal models that enable incremental dopamine depletion over time within the same animal. This type of gradual dopamine depletion model would be useful in studies aimed at the prodromal phase of PD, when dopamine levels are pathologically low but motor symptoms have not yet presented. Utilizing the highly characterized neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), we have developed a paradigm to gradually deplete dopamine levels in the striatum over a user-defined time course – spanning weeks to months – in C57BL/6 mice. Dopamine depletions were achieved by administration of five low dose injections (0.75 µg) of 6-OHDA through an implanted intracranial bilateral cannula targeting the medial forebrain bundle. Levels of dopamine within the striatum declined linearly with successive injections, quantified using tyrosine hydroxylase immunostaining and high-performance liquid chromatography. Behavioral testing was carried out at each time point to study the onset and progression of motor impairments as a function of dopamine loss over time. We found that spontaneous locomotion, measured in an open field, was robust to loss of dopamine until ~70% of striatal dopamine was lost. Beyond this point, additional dopamine loss caused a sharp decline in motor performance, reaching a final level comparable to that of acutely depleted mice. Similarly, although rearing behavior was more sensitive to dopamine loss and declined linearly as a function of dopamine levels, it eventually declined to levels similar to that seen in acutely depleted mice. In contrast, motor coordination, measured on a vertical pole task, was only moderately impaired in gradually depleted mice, despite severe impairments observed in acutely depleted mice. These results demonstrate the

Use of active video games to increase physical activity in children: a (virtual) reality?

PubMed

Foley, Louise; Maddison, Ralph

2010-02-01

There has been increased research interest in the use of active video games (in which players physically interact with images onscreen) as a means to promote physical activity in children. The aim of this review was to assess active video games as a means of increasing energy expenditure and physical activity behavior in children. Studies were obtained from computerized searches of multiple electronic bibliographic databases. The last search was conducted in December 2008. Eleven studies focused on the quantification of the energy cost associated with playing active video games, and eight studies focused on the utility of active video games as an intervention to increase physical activity in children. Compared with traditional nonactive video games, active video games elicited greater energy expenditure, which was similar in intensity to mild to moderate intensity physical activity. The intervention studies indicate that active video games may have the potential to increase free-living physical activity and improve body composition in children; however, methodological limitations prevent definitive conclusions. Future research should focus on larger, methodologically sound intervention trials to provide definitive answers as to whether this technology is effective in promoting long-term physical activity in children.

Seasonal ionospheric scintillation analysis during increasing solar activity at mid-latitude

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmed, Wasiu Akande; Wu, Falin; Agbaje, Ganiyu Ishola; Ednofri, Ednofri; Marlia, Dessi; Zhao, Yan

2017-09-01

Monitoring of ionospheric parameters (such as Total Electron Content and scintillation) is of great importance as it affects and contributes to the errors encountered by radio signals. It thus requires constant measurements to avoid disastrous situation for space agencies, parastatals and departments that employ GNSS applications in their daily operations. The research objective is to have a better understanding of the behaviour of ionospheric scintillation at midlatitude as it threatens the performances of satellite communication, navigation systems and military operations. This paper adopts seasonal ionospheric scintillation scenario. The mid-latitude investigation of ionospheric effect of scintillation was conducted during the increasing solar activity from 2011-2015. Ionospheric scintillation data were obtained from four ionospheric monitoring stations located at mid-latitude (i.e Shenzhen North Station, Beijing Changping North Station Branch, Beijing North Station and Beijing Miyun ground Station). The data was collected from January 2011 to December 2015. There were absence of data due to software problem or system failure at some locations. The scintillation phenomenon was computed using Global Ionospheric Scintillation and TEC Monitoring Model. There are four seasons which existed in China namely: Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter. The relationship between TEC, amplitude and phase scintillation were observed for each of these seasons. The results indicated that the weak amplitude scintillation was observed as against phase scintillation which was high. Phase scintillation was gradually enhanced from 2011 to 2012 and later declined till 2014. TEC was also at peak around 00:00-10:00 UT (08:00-18:00 LT). The seasonal events temporal density characteristics comply with solar cycle prediction as such it ascended from 2011 to 2013 and then scintillation parameters declined significantly afterwards.

Difference thresholds for added sugar in chocolate-flavoured milk: Recommendations for gradual sugar reduction.

PubMed

Oliveira, Denize; Reis, Felipe; Deliza, Rosires; Rosenthal, Amauri; Giménez, Ana; Ares, Gastón

2016-11-01

Reducing the concentration of added sugar in processed foods is one of the most realistic strategies to reduce the intake of this nutrient in the short-term. In order to be effective, gradual sugar reduction strategies need to determine the maximum sugar reduction that can be unnoticed by consumers. In this context, the present work aimed at providing recommendations for gradual sugar reduction in chocolate-flavoured milk by determining difference thresholds for added sugar and evaluating consumers' sensory and hedonic perception of reduced-sugar products. Five studies were conducted with 50 consumers to determine five sequential difference thresholds. In each study consumers completed six paired-comparison tests. Each pair was composed of a reference chocolate-flavoured milk and a sample that was reduced in added sugar from the reference. Difference thresholds, corresponding to the smallest reduction in sugar concentration that is noticed by consumers, were determined using survival analysis. Then, a study was carried to with 100 consumers to evaluate their sensory and hedonic perception of chocolate-flavoured milk samples with different added sugar concentrations. Results suggested that sequential sugar reductions can be set at 6.7% without affecting consumers' sensory and hedonic perception. Sugar reduction in chocolate-flavoured milk without affecting consumers' perception seems feasible and easy to implement. The approach of the present work could be extended to design recommendations for gradual reduction of the added sugar concentration of other industrialized products, contributing to the development of more healthful products that meet current nutritional recommendations. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Method for modeling the gradual physical degradation of a porous material

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

Flach, Greg

Cementitious and other engineered porous materials encountered in waste disposals may degrade over time due to one or more mechanisms. Physical degradation may take the form of cracking (fracturing) and/or altered (e.g. increased) porosity, depending on the material and underlying degradation mechanism. In most cases, the hydraulic properties of degrading materials are expected to evolve due to physical changes occurring over roughly the pore to decimeter scale, which is conducive to calculating equivalent or effective material properties. The exact morphology of a degrading material in its end-state may or may not be known. In the latter case, the fully-degraded conditionmore » can be assumed to be similar to a more-permeable material in the surrounding environment, such as backfill soil. Then the fully-degraded waste form or barrier material is hydraulically neutral with respect to its surroundings, constituting neither a barrier to nor conduit for moisture flow and solute transport. Unless the degradation mechanism is abrupt, a gradual transition between the intact initial and fully-degraded final states is desired. Linear interpolation through time is one method for smoothly blending hydraulic properties between those of an intact matrix and those of a soil or other surrogate for the end-state.« less

Finding common ground in implementation: towards a theory of gradual commonality.

PubMed

Ter Haar, Marian; Aarts, Noelle; Verhoeven, Piet

2016-03-01

This article reports on an empirical study that aimed to design a practice-based theory about collaboration on the local implementation of a nationally developed health-promoting intervention. The study's objective is to better understand the dynamic process of complex collaboration. The research is based on a Delphi study among some 100 individuals in local and regional networks, in which various professionals work together to implement the BeweegKuur, which translates as 'course of exercise'. The BeweegKuur is a combined lifestyle intervention aimed at promoting sufficient physical exercise and a healthy diet among people in the Netherlands who are overweight and at risk of diabetes. The Delphi study in three rounds systematically and interactively constructs a common perspective on implementation, reflecting stakeholders' ideas about the collaboration and providing an insight into how these ideas are influenced by the context of the implementation. The statistical and qualitative analyses of the responses to the feedback in the Delphi study form the basis for this practice-based theory on complex collaboration, called the theory of gradual commonality. During interaction, consensus gradually emerges about co-creation as a collaboration strategy. Co-creation leaves room for various ways of achieving the ambitions of the BeweegKuur. This article discusses the importance of this practice-based theory and the value of the Delphi research strategy for promoting health. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta activation leads to increased transintestinal cholesterol efflux

PubMed Central

Vrins, Carlos L. J.; van der Velde, Astrid E.; van den Oever, Karin; Levels, Johannes H. M.; Huet, Stephane; Oude Elferink, Ronald P. J.; Kuipers, Folkert; Groen, Albert K.

2009-01-01

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta (PPARδ) is involved in regulation of energy homeostasis. Activation of PPARδ markedly increases fecal neutral sterol secretion, the last step in reverse cholesterol transport. This phenomenon can neither be explained by increased hepatobiliary cholesterol secretion, nor by reduced cholesterol absorption. To test the hypothesis that PPARδ activation leads to stimulation of transintestinal cholesterol efflux (TICE), we quantified it by intestine perfusions in FVB mice treated with PPARδ agonist GW610742. To exclude the effects on cholesterol absorption, mice were also treated with cholesterol absorption inhibitor ezetimibe or ezetimibe/GW610742. GW601742 treatment had little effect on plasma lipid levels but stimulated both fecal neutral sterol excretion (∼200%) and TICE (∼100%). GW610742 decreased intestinal Npc1l1 expression but had no effect on Abcg5/Abcg8. Interestingly, expression of Rab9 and LIMPII, encoding proteins involved in intracellular cholesterol trafficking, was increased upon PPARδ activation. Although treatment with ezetimibe alone had no effect on TICE, it reduced the effect of GW610742 on TICE. These data show that activation of PPARδ stimulates fecal cholesterol excretion in mice, primarily by the two-fold increase in TICE, indicating that this pathway provides an interesting target for the development of drugs aiming at the prevention of atherosclerosis. PMID:19439761

Effect of increasing the choice of active options on children’s physical activity

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Objectives: To determine whether increasing the choice of physical activity options increases the duration and intensity of children’s physical activity. Design: This cross-sectional laboratory study included gender (male, female) and choice group [single toy (no choice), three toys (low choice...

Trapezius muscle activity increases during near work activity regardless of accommodation/vergence demand level.

PubMed

Richter, H O; Zetterberg, C; Forsman, M

2015-07-01

To investigate if trapezius muscle activity increases over time during visually demanding near work. The vision task consisted of sustained focusing on a contrast-varying black and white Gabor grating. Sixty-six participants with a median age of 38 (range 19-47) fixated the grating from a distance of 65 cm (1.5 D) during four counterbalanced 7-min periods: binocularly through -3.5 D lenses, and monocularly through -3.5 D, 0 D and +3.5 D. Accommodation, heart rate variability and trapezius muscle activity were recorded in parallel. General estimating equation analyses showed that trapezius muscle activity increased significantly over time in all four lens conditions. A concurrent effect of accommodation response on trapezius muscle activity was observed with the minus lenses irrespective of whether incongruence between accommodation and convergence was present or not. Trapezius muscle activity increased significantly over time during the near work task. The increase in muscle activity over time may be caused by an increased need of mental effort and visual attention to maintain performance during the visual tasks to counteract mental fatigue.

Molecular Basis of the Increase in Invertase Activity Elicited by Gravistimulation of Oat-Shoot Pulvini

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wu, Liu-Lai; Song, Il; Kim, Donghern; Kaufman, Peter B.

1993-01-01

An asymmetric (top vs. bottom) increase in invertase activity is elicited by gravistimulation in oatshoot pulvini starting within 3h after treatment. In order to analyze the regulation of invertase gene expression in this system, we examined the effect of gravistimulation on invertase mRNA induction. Total RNA and poly(A)(+)RNA, isolated from oat pulvini, and two oligonucleotide primers, corresponding to two conserved amino-acid sequences (NDPNG and WECPD) found in invertase from other species, were used for the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). A partial-length cDNA (550 base pairs) was obtained and characterized. There was a 52 % deduced amino-acid sequence homology to that of carrot beta-fructosi- dase and a 48 % homology to that of tomato invertase. Northern blot analysis showed that there was an obvious transient accumulation of invertase mRNA elicited by gravistimulation of oat pulvini. The mRNA was rapidly induced to a maximum level at 1h following gravistimulation treatment and gradually decreased afterwards. The mRNA level in the bottom half of the oat pulvinus was significantly higher (five-fold) than that in the top half of the pulvinus tissue. The induction of invertase mRNA was consistent with the transient enhancement of invertase activity during the graviresponse of the pulvinus. These data indicate that the expression of the invertase gene(s) could be regulated by gravistimulation at the transcriptional and/or translational levels. Southern blot analysis showed that there were four genomic DNA fragments hybridized to the invertase cDNA. This suggests that an invertase gene family may exist in oat plants.

Post-task Effects on EEG Brain Activity Differ for Various Differential Learning and Contextual Interference Protocols

PubMed Central

Henz, Diana; John, Alexander; Merz, Christian; Schöllhorn, Wolfgang I.

2018-01-01

A large body of research has shown superior learning rates in variable practice compared to repetitive practice. More specifically, this has been demonstrated in the contextual interference (CI) and in the differential learning (DL) approach that are both representatives of variable practice. Behavioral studies have indicate different learning processes in CI and DL. Aim of the present study was to examine immediate post-task effects on electroencephalographic (EEG) brain activation patterns after CI and DL protocols that reveal underlying neural processes at the early stage of motor consolidation. Additionally, we tested two DL protocols (gradual DL, chaotic DL) to examine the effect of different degrees of stochastic fluctuations within the DL approach with a low degree of fluctuations in gradual DL and a high degree of fluctuations in chaotic DL. Twenty-two subjects performed badminton serves according to three variable practice protocols (CI, gradual DL, chaotic DL), and a repetitive learning protocol in a within-subjects design. Spontaneous EEG activity was measured before, and immediately after each 20-min practice session from 19 electrodes. Results showed distinguishable neural processes after CI, DL, and repetitive learning. Increases in EEG theta and alpha power were obtained in somatosensory regions (electrodes P3, P7, Pz, P4, P8) in both DL conditions compared to CI, and repetitive learning. Increases in theta and alpha activity in motor areas (electrodes C3, Cz, C4) were found after chaotic DL compared to gradual DL, and CI. Anterior areas (electrodes F3, F7, Fz, F4, F8) showed increased activity in the beta and gamma bands after CI. Alpha activity was increased in occipital areas (electrodes O1, O2) after repetitive learning. Post-task EEG brain activation patterns suggest that DL stimulates the somatosensory and motor system, and engages more regions of the cortex than repetitive learning due to a tighter stimulation of the motor and somatosensory

The Dependence of Characteristic Times of Gradual SEP Events on Their Associated CME Properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Z. H.; Wang, C. B.; Xue, X. H.; Wang, Y. M.

It is generally believed that coronal mass ejections CMEs are the drivers of shocks that accelerate gradual solar energetic particles SEPs One might expect that the characteristics of the SEP intensity time profiles observed at 1 AU are determined by properties of the associated CMEs such as the radial speed and the angular width Recently Kahler statistically investigated the characteristic times of gradual SEP events observed from 1998-2002 and their associated coronal mass ejection properties Astrophys J 628 1014--1022 2005 Three characteristic times of gradual SEP events are determined as functions of solar source longitude 1 T 0 the time from associated CME launch to SEP onset at 1 AU 2 T R the rise time from SEP onset to the time when the SEP intensity is a factor of 2 below peak intensity and 3 T D the duration over which the SEP intensity is within a factor of 2 of the peak intensity However in his study the CME speeds and angular widths are directly taken from the LASCO CME catalog In this study we analyze the radial speeds and the angular widths of CMEs by an ice-cream cone model and re-investigate their correlationships with the characteristic times of the corresponding SEP events We find T R and T D are significantly correlated with radial speed for SEP events in the best-connected longitude range and there is no correlation between T 0 and CME radial speed and angular width which is consistent with Kahler s results On the other hand it s found that T R and T D are also have

Gradual pressure-induced change in the magnetic structure of the noncollinear antiferromagnet Mn3Ge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sukhanov, A. S.; Singh, Sanjay; Caron, L.; Hansen, Th.; Hoser, A.; Kumar, V.; Borrmann, H.; Fitch, A.; Devi, P.; Manna, K.; Felser, C.; Inosov, D. S.

2018-06-01

By means of powder neutron diffraction we investigate changes in the magnetic structure of the coplanar noncollinear antiferromagnet Mn3Ge caused by an application of hydrostatic pressure up to 5 GPa. At ambient conditions the kagomé layers of Mn atoms in Mn3Ge order in a triangular 120∘ spin structure. Under high pressure the spins acquire a uniform out-of-plane canting, gradually transforming the magnetic texture to a noncoplanar configuration. With increasing pressure the canted structure fully transforms into the collinear ferromagnetic one. We observed that magnetic order is accompanied by a noticeable magnetoelastic effect, namely, spontaneous magnetostriction. The latter induces an in-plane magnetostrain of the hexagonal unit cell at ambient pressure and flips to an out-of-plane strain at high pressures in accordance with the change of the magnetic structure.

Negative BOLD with Large Increases in Neuronal Activity

PubMed Central

Khubchandani, Manjula; Motelow, Joshua E.; Sanganahalli, Basavaraju G.; Hyder, Fahmeed

2008-01-01

Blood oxygen level–dependent (BOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is widely used in neuroscience to study brain activity. However, BOLD fMRI does not measure neuronal activity directly but depends on cerebral blood flow (CBF), cerebral blood volume (CBV), and cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2) consumption. Using fMRI, CBV, CBF, neuronal recordings, and CMRO2 modeling, we investigated how the signals are related during seizures in rats. We found that increases in hemodynamic, neuronal, and metabolic activity were associated with positive BOLD signals in the cortex, but with negative BOLD signals in hippocampus. Our data show that negative BOLD signals do not necessarily imply decreased neuronal activity or CBF, but can result from increased neuronal activity, depending on the interplay between hemodynamics and metabolism. Caution should be used in interpreting fMRI signals because the relationship between neuronal activity and BOLD signals may depend on brain region and state and can be different during normal and pathological conditions. PMID:18063563

Metformin and phenformin activate AMP-activated protein kinase in the heart by increasing cytosolic AMP concentration.

PubMed

Zhang, Li; He, Huamei; Balschi, James A

2007-07-01

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) acts as a cellular energy sensor: it responds to an increase in AMP concentration ([AMP]) or the AMP-to-ATP ratio (AMP/ATP). Metformin and phenformin, which are biguanides, have been reported to increase AMPK activity without increasing AMP/ATP. This study tests the hypothesis that these biguanides increase AMPK activity in the heart by increasing cytosolic [AMP]. Groups of isolated rat hearts (n = 5-7 each) were perfused with Krebs-Henseleit buffer with or without 0.2 mM phenformin or 10 mM metformin, and (31)P-NMR-measured phosphocreatine, ATP, and intracellular pH were used to calculate cytosolic [AMP]. At various times, hearts were freeze-clamped and assayed for AMPK activity, phosphorylation of Thr(172) on AMPK-alpha, and phosphorylation of Ser(79) on acetyl-CoA carboxylase, an AMPK target. In hearts treated with phenformin for 18 min and then perfused for 20 min with Krebs-Henseleit buffer, [AMP] began to increase at 26 min and AMPK activity was elevated at 36 min. In hearts treated with metformin, [AMP] was increased at 50 min and AMPK activity, phosphorylated AMPK, and phosphorylated acetyl-CoA carboxylase were elevated at 61 min. In metformin-treated hearts, HPLC-measured total AMP content and total AMP/ATP did not increase. In summary, phenformin and metformin increase AMPK activity and phosphorylation in the isolated heart. The increase in AMPK activity was always preceded by and correlated with increased cytosolic [AMP]. Total AMP content and total AMP/ATP did not change. Cytosolic [AMP] reported metabolically active AMP, which triggered increased AMPK activity, but measures of total AMP did not.

Experimentally increasing sedentary behavior results in increased anxiety in an active young adult population.

PubMed

Edwards, Meghan K; Loprinzi, Paul D

2016-11-01

Knowledge regarding the effects of sedentary behavior on anxiety has resulted mainly from observational studies. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a free-living, sedentary behavior-inducing randomized controlled intervention on anxiety symptoms. Participants confirmed to be active (i.e., acquiring 150min/week of physical activity) via self-report and accelerometry were randomly assigned into a sedentary behavior intervention group (n=26) or a control group (n=13). For one week, the intervention group eliminated exercise and minimized steps to ≤5000 steps/day whereas the control group continued their normal physical activity levels. Both groups completed the Overall Anxiety Severity Impairment Scale (OASIS) pre- and post-intervention, with higher OASIS scores indicating worse overall anxiety. The intervention group resumed normal physical activity levels for one week post-intervention and then completed the survey once more. A significant group x time interaction effect was observed (F(1,37)=11.13; P=.002), with post-hoc contrast tests indicating increased OASIS scores in the intervention group in Visit 2 compared with Visit 1. That is, we observed an increase in anxiety levels when participants increased their sedentary behavior. OASIS scores significantly decreased from Visit 2 to Visit 3 (P=.001) in the intervention group. A one-week sedentary behavior-inducing intervention has deleterious effects on anxiety in an active, young adult population. To prevent elevated anxiety levels among active individuals, consistent regular physical activity may be necessary. Clinicians treating inactive patients who have anxiety may recommend a physical activity program in addition to any other prescribed treatment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Ontogenetic changes in digestive enzyme activities and the amino acid profile of starry flounder Platichthys stellatus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Zhidong; Wang, Jiying; Qiao, Hongjin; Li, Peiyu; Zhang, Limin; Xia, Bin

2016-09-01

Ontogenetic changes in digestive enzyme activities and the amino acid (AA) profile of starry flounder, Platichthys stellatus, were investigated and limiting amino acids were estimated compared with the essential AA profile between larvae and live food to clarify starry flounder larval nutritional requirements. Larvae were collected at the egg stage and 0, 2, 4, 7, 12, 17, 24 days after hatching (DAH) for analysis. Larvae grew from 1.91 mm at hatching to 12.13 mm at 24 DAH. Trypsin and chymotrypsin activities changed slightly by 4 DAH and then increased significantly 4 DAH. Pepsin activity increased sharply beginning 17 DAH. Lipase activity increased significantly 4 DAH and increased progressively with larval growth. Amylase activity was also detected in newly hatched larvae and increased 7 DAH followed by a gradual decrease. High free amino acid (FAA) content was detected in starry flounder eggs (110.72 mg/g dry weight). Total FAA content dropped to 43.29 mg/g in 4-DAH larvae and then decreased gradually to 13.74 mg/g in 24-DAH larvae. Most FAAs (except lysine and methionine) decreased >50% in 4-DAH larvae compared with those in eggs and then decreased to the lowest values in 24-DAH larvae. Changes in the protein amino acid (PAA) profile were much milder than those observed for FAAs. Most PAAs increased gradually during larval development, except lysine and phenylalanine. The percentages of free threonine, valine, isoleucine, and leucine decreased until the end of the trial, whereas the protein forms of these four AAs followed the opposite trend. A comparison of the essential AA composition of live food (rotifers, Artemia nauplii, and Artemia metanauplii) and larvae suggested that methionine was potentially the first limiting AA. These results may help develop starry flounder larviculture methods by solving the AA imbalance in live food. Moreover, the increased digestive enzyme activities indicate the possibility of introducing artificial compound feed.

The Older Woman: Increased Psychosocial Benefits from Physical Activity.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wakat, Diane; Odom, Sarah

1982-01-01

Older women who participate in physical activity programs find physical benefits in the improvement of cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems. The psychosocial benefits which result from physical activity include an increase in self-esteem, increased social contacts, a counteraction to depression, and improved stress management. Suggestions…

Increased plasma xanthine oxidoreductase activity deteriorates coronary artery spasm.

PubMed

Watanabe, Ken; Shishido, Tetsuro; Otaki, Yoichiro; Watanabe, Tetsu; Sugai, Takayuki; Toshima, Taku; Takahashi, Tetsuya; Yokoyama, Miyuki; Kinoshita, Daisuke; Murase, Takayo; Nakamura, Takashi; Wanezaki, Masahiro; Tamura, Harutoshi; Nishiyama, Satoshi; Takahashi, Hiroki; Arimoto, Takanori; Yamauchi, So; Yamanaka, Tamon; Miyamoto, Takuya; Kubota, Isao; Watanabe, Masafumi

2018-06-23

Increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) contributes to the development of endothelial dysfunction, which is involved in coronary artery spasm (CAS). Xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) plays a pivotal role in producing both uric acid and ROS. However, the association between plasma XOR activity and CAS has not been elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate whether plasma XOR activity is associated with CAS. We measured XOR activity in 104 patients suspected for CAS, who presented without significant coronary artery stenosis and underwent intracoronary acetylcholine provocation tests. CAS was provoked in 44 patients and they had significantly higher XOR activity as compared with those without CAS. The patients were divided into three groups based on the XOR activity. The prevalence rate of CAS was increased with increasing XOR activity. A multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the 3rd tertile group exhibited a higher incidence of CAS as compared with the 1st tertile group [odds ratio (OR) 6.9, P = 0.001) and the 2nd tertile group (OR 3.2, P = 0.033) after adjustment for conventional CAS risk factors, respectively. The C index was significantly improved by the addition of XOR activity to the baseline model based on CAS risk factors. Furthermore, the 3rd tertile group had the highest incidence of severe spasm defined as total obstruction, flow-limiting stenosis, diffuse spasm, multivessel spasm, and/or lethal arrhythmia. This is a first report to elucidate the association of plasma XOR activity with CAS. Increased plasma XOR activity is significantly associated with CAS.

The tectonic and volcanic evolution of Venus: Catastrophic or gradual?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Solomon, Sean C.

1993-01-01

different degree of layering, then the planet may in the last 500 My have attained lesser mantle temperatures, lower mantle heat flux, and a significantly lesser rate of magma production than Earth yet still display evidence for ongoing convection and active tectonics. Such a 'cold Venus' scenario would be broadly consistent with observations yet be characterized by a gradual volcanic and tectonic evolution.

["Tied down"--the process of becoming bedridden through gradual local confinement].

PubMed

Zegelin, Angelika

2005-10-01

To be bedridden is a common phenomenon in nursing. However, there is no solid base of knowledge on reasons, types, development of and coping with this situation. The concept of being bedridden is applied in an arbitrary manner and the state of being bedridden is far from being clearly defined. A literature review revealed that only pathophysiological effects of this state are sufficiently explained. The aim of this study was to gain knowledge of the development of being confined to bed. Thirty-two interviews with elderly, bedridden people (nineteen women, thirteen men) were conducted. They were asked about their perspective on and their experience of the development of being confined to bed. Half of the interviewees lived in a nursing home, the others were cared for at home. Data collection and analysis were performed by using a Grounded Theory approach as developed by Strauss and Corbin. "Gradual local fixation" was identified as the core category. Becoming bedridden is a slow process by which the person is increasingly confined to one location. This development is related to an increasing need for support and to negative consequences such as a pathology of immobility, narrowing of interests, and loss of time. These consequences again are responsible for a downward spiral development. This study reveals phases of development and a range of factors influencing them. Many of these factors arise from the person and his/her interactional behaviour in the circumstances, other influences are structural factors such as external pressure caused by time constraints of professional nursing services or unfavourable arrangements of furniture. A lot of factors of being confined to bed are changeable. Long periods of being bedridden can be prevented in many cases, if early warning signs are being recognized and preventive measures are taken in time.

[Gradual effects of therapeutic touch in reducing anxiety in university students].

PubMed

Gomes, Vanessa Miranda; Silva, Maria Júlia Paes da; Araújo, Eutália Aparecida Cândido

2008-01-01

This is quantitative research conducted with 42 students of a public university using the Therapeutic Touch - Krieger-Kunz Method and the application of a questionnaire validated in Brazil to assess anxiety in three sessions. Subjects were divided into two groups: experimental (1), in which the complementary therapy was used; and control (2), in which a mock of the technique, with no therapeutic intention, was applied. The objective was to identify the gradual influence of that health complementary therapy upon the students' state of anxiety. The analysis of the data showed a statistically significant reduction of the state of anxiety in both groups, with pd' 0.05.

Approach to injuries in active people

PubMed Central

Shrier, Ian

2006-01-01

OBJECTIVE To review the basic principles underlying treatment of injuries in active people. SOURCES OF INFORMATION Basic science texts and reports of observational and randomized trials on treatment of musculoskeletal injuries were retrieved during previous exhaustive systematic reviews published by the author on a variety of musculoskeletal injury topics. MAIN MESSAGE After an injury, further damage or re-injury can be prevented either by decreasing the stress on the tissue or increasing the stress the tissue can withstand. Regardless of the type of injury, clinicians should aim to restore function; aim to increase activity without increasing pain; recommend that patients start slowly and increase activity gradually; revisit diagnosis and treatment if patients are not responding; and treat the patient, not the condition. CONCLUSION Most musculoskeletal injuries in the general population can be managed effectively by family physicians. Management should follow the basic principles of exercise training. PMID:16812964

Prescribing physical activity for older patients.

PubMed

Kligman, E W; Pepin, E

1992-08-01

Regular exercise is an effective nonpharmacologic therapy for stress, sleep disorders, depression, and anxiety, as well as such chronic conditions of aging as hypertension, obesity, diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, hyperlipidemia, and constipation. Pre-exercise office assessment of cardiac risk, possible limitations, and contraindications is advised. A balanced fitness training program includes activities to increase flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular endurance. The most effective exercise prescription begins with a type of aerobic activity the patient enjoys. A prescribed schedule of stepwise increments in frequency, duration, and intensity gradually leads to a maintenance level of fitness.

Workplace pedometer interventions for increasing physical activity.

PubMed

Freak-Poli, Rosanne L A; Cumpston, Miranda; Peeters, Anna; Clemes, Stacy A

2013-04-30

The World Health Organization and the World Economic Forum have recommended further research to strengthen current knowledge of workplace health programmes, particularly on effectiveness and using simple instruments. A pedometer is one such simple instrument that can be incorporated in workplace interventions. To assess the effectiveness of pedometer interventions in the workplace for increasing physical activity and improving subsequent health outcomes. Electronic searches of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (671 potential papers), MEDLINE (1001), Embase (965), CINAHL (1262), OSH UPDATE databases (75) and Web of Science (1154) from the earliest record to between 30th January and 6th February 2012 yielded 3248 unique records. Reference lists of articles yielded an additional 34 papers. Contact with individuals and organisations did not produce any further records. We included individual and cluster-randomised controlled trials of workplace health promotion interventions with a pedometer component in employed adults. The primary outcome was physical activity and was part of the eligibility criteria. We considered subsequent health outcomes, including adverse effects, as secondary outcomes. Two review authors undertook the screening of titles and abstracts and the full-text papers independently. Two review authors (RFP and MC) independently completed data extraction and risk of bias assessment. We contacted authors to obtain additional data and clarification. We found four relevant studies providing data for 1809 employees, 60% of whom were allocated to the intervention group. All studies assessed outcomes immediately after the intervention had finished and the intervention duration varied between three to six months. All studies had usual treatment control conditions; however one study's usual treatment was an alternative physical activity programme while the other three had minimally active controls. In general, there was high risk of bias mainly

Active transportation as a way to increase physical activity among children.

PubMed

Morency, C; Demers, M

2010-05-01

This study examines how active transportation could help increase the daily physical activity volume of school-aged children. Using data from the 2003 Origin-Destination Survey carried out among 5% of the 3.5 million residents of the Greater Montreal Area, we determined the proportion of short motorized trips made daily by children 5-14 years old (16 837 children sampled) and estimated the number of steps these trips would account for if they were travelled by foot, taking into account variables such as age, sex and height of children. Modal choice and trip purpose were also examined. In 2003, 31.2% of the daily trips made by children aged 5-14 years in the Greater Montreal Area were 1 km or less (0.6 mile). Of these, 33.0% were motorized trips. Overall, 13.1% of the children in the area had 'steps in reserve', an average of 2238 steps per child per day. If they were performed, these steps would account for 16.6% of the daily recommended volume of physical activity for children. Replacing short motorized trips with walking could increase the physical activity level of children and contribute to meet the recommended guidelines, as long as these walking trips add to their daily physical activity volume. It could also reduce their dependence towards adults for moving around.

Amphetamine increases activity but not exploration in humans and mice

PubMed Central

Minassian, Arpi; Young, Jared W.; Cope, Zackary A.; Henry, Brook L.; Geyer, Mark A.; Perry, William

2015-01-01

Rationale Cross-species quantification of physiological behavior enables a better understanding of the biological systems underlying neuropsychiatric diseases such as Bipolar Disorder (BD). Cardinal symptoms of manic BD include increased motor activity and goal-directed behavior, thought to be related to increased catecholamine activity, potentially selective to dopamine homeostatic dysregulation. Objectives The objective of this study was to test whether acute administration of amphetamine, a norepinephrine/dopamine transporter inhibitor and dopamine releaser, would replicate the profile of activity and exploration observed in both humans with manic BD and mouse models of mania. Methods Healthy volunteers with no psychiatric history were randomized to a one-time dose of placebo (n=25), 10 mg d-amphetamine (n=18), or 20 mg amphetamine (n=23). 80 mice were administered one of 4 doses of d-amphetamine or vehicle. Humans and mice were tested in the Behavioral Pattern Monitor (BPM), which quantifies motor activity, exploratory behavior, and spatial patterns of behavior. Results In humans, the 20-mg dose of amphetamine increased motor activity as measured by acceleration without marked effects on exploration or spatial patterns of activity. In mice, amphetamine increased activity, decreased specific exploration, and caused straighter, one-dimensional movements in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusions Consistent with mice, amphetamine increased motoric activity in humans without increasing exploration. Given that BD patients exhibit heightened exploration, these data further emphasize the limitation of amphetamine-induced hyperactivity as a suitable model for BD. Further, these studies highlight the utility of cross-species physiological paradigms in validating biological mechanisms of psychiatric diseases. PMID:26449721

Increased renal alpha-epithelial sodium channel (ENAC) protein and increased ENAC activity in normal pregnancy.

PubMed

West, Crystal; Zhang, Zheng; Ecker, Geoffrey; Masilamani, Shyama M E

2010-11-01

Pregnancy-mediated sodium (Na) retention is required to provide an increase in plasma volume for the growing fetus. The mechanisms responsible for this Na retention are not clear. We first used a targeted proteomics approach and found that there were no changes in the protein abundance compared with virgin rats of the β or γ ENaC, type 3 Na(+)/H(+) exchanger (NHE3), bumetanide-sensitive cotransporter (NKCC2), or NaCl cotransporter (NCC) in mid- or late pregnancy. In contrast, we observed marked increases in the abundance of the α-ENaC subunit. The plasma volume increased progressively during pregnancy with the greatest plasma volume being evident in late pregnancy. ENaC inhibition abolished the difference in plasma volume status between virgin and pregnant rats. To determine the in vivo activity of ENaC, we conducted in vivo studies of rats in late pregnancy (days 18-20) and virgin rats to measure the natriuretic response to ENaC blockade (with benzamil). The in vivo activity of ENaC (U(Na)V postbenzamil-U(Na)V postvehicle) was markedly increased in late pregnancy, and this difference was abolished by pretreatment with the mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, eplerenone. These findings demonstrate that the increased α-ENaC subunit of pregnancy is associated with an mineralocorticoid-dependent increase in ENaC activity. Further, we show that ENaC activity is a major contributor of plasma volume status in late pregnancy. These changes are likely to contribute to the renal sodium retention and plasma volume expansion required for an optimal pregnancy.

Regulation of two motor patterns enables the gradual adjustment of locomotion strategy in Caenorhabditis elegans

PubMed Central

Hums, Ingrid; Riedl, Julia; Mende, Fanny; Kato, Saul; Kaplan, Harris S; Latham, Richard; Sonntag, Michael; Traunmüller, Lisa; Zimmer, Manuel

2016-01-01

In animal locomotion a tradeoff exists between stereotypy and flexibility: fast long-distance travelling (LDT) requires coherent regular motions, while local sampling and area-restricted search (ARS) rely on flexible movements. We report here on a posture control system in C. elegans that coordinates these needs. Using quantitative posture analysis we explain worm locomotion as a composite of two modes: regular undulations versus flexible turning. Graded reciprocal regulation of both modes allows animals to flexibly adapt their locomotion strategy under sensory stimulation along a spectrum ranging from LDT to ARS. Using genetics and functional imaging of neural activity we characterize the counteracting interneurons AVK and DVA that utilize FLP-1 and NLP-12 neuropeptides to control both motor modes. Gradual regulation of behaviors via this system is required for spatial navigation during chemotaxis. This work shows how a nervous system controls simple elementary features of posture to generate complex movements for goal-directed locomotion strategies. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.14116.001 PMID:27222228

Increased Levels of Rictor Prevent Mutant Huntingtin-Induced Neuronal Degeneration.

PubMed

Creus-Muncunill, Jordi; Rué, Laura; Alcalá-Vida, Rafael; Badillos-Rodríguez, Raquel; Romaní-Aumedes, Joan; Marco, Sonia; Alberch, Jordi; Perez-Otaño, Isabel; Malagelada, Cristina; Pérez-Navarro, Esther

2018-02-19

Rictor associates with mTOR to form the mTORC2 complex, which activity regulates neuronal function and survival. Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by the presence of neuronal dysfunction and cell death in specific brain regions such as for example Huntington's disease (HD), which is characterized by the loss of striatal projection neurons leading to motor dysfunction. Although HD is caused by the expression of mutant huntingtin, cell death occurs gradually suggesting that neurons have the capability to activate compensatory mechanisms to deal with neuronal dysfunction and later cell death. Here, we analyzed whether mTORC2 activity could be altered by the presence of mutant huntingtin. We observed that Rictor levels are specifically increased in the striatum of HD mouse models and in the putamen of HD patients. Rictor-mTOR interaction and the phosphorylation levels of Akt, one of the targets of the mTORC2 complex, were increased in the striatum of the R6/1 mouse model of HD suggesting increased mTORC2 signaling. Interestingly, acute downregulation of Rictor in striatal cells in vitro reduced mTORC2 activity, as shown by reduced levels of phospho-Akt, and increased mutant huntingtin-induced cell death. Accordingly, overexpression of Rictor increased mTORC2 activity counteracting cell death. Furthermore, normalization of endogenous Rictor levels in the striatum of R6/1 mouse worsened motor symptoms suggesting an induction of neuronal dysfunction. In conclusion, our results suggest that increased Rictor striatal levels could counteract neuronal dysfunction induced by mutant huntingtin.

Gradually truncated log-normal in USA publicly traded firm size distribution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gupta, Hari M.; Campanha, José R.; de Aguiar, Daniela R.; Queiroz, Gabriel A.; Raheja, Charu G.

2007-03-01

We study the statistical distribution of firm size for USA and Brazilian publicly traded firms through the Zipf plot technique. Sale size is used to measure firm size. The Brazilian firm size distribution is given by a log-normal distribution without any adjustable parameter. However, we also need to consider different parameters of log-normal distribution for the largest firms in the distribution, which are mostly foreign firms. The log-normal distribution has to be gradually truncated after a certain critical value for USA firms. Therefore, the original hypothesis of proportional effect proposed by Gibrat is valid with some modification for very large firms. We also consider the possible mechanisms behind this distribution.

Jealousy increased by induced relative left frontal cortical activity.

PubMed

Kelley, Nicholas J; Eastwick, Paul W; Harmon-Jones, Eddie; Schmeichel, Brandon J

2015-10-01

Asymmetric frontal cortical activity may be one key to the process linking social exclusion to jealous feelings. The current research examined the causal role of asymmetric frontal brain activity in modulating jealousy in response to social exclusion. Transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) over the frontal cortex to manipulate asymmetric frontal cortical activity was combined with a modified version of the Cyberball paradigm designed to induce jealousy. After receiving 15 min of tDCS, participants were excluded by a desired partner and reported how jealous they felt. Among individuals who were excluded, tDCS to increase relative left frontal cortical activity caused greater levels of self-reported jealousy compared to tDCS to increase relative right frontal cortical activity or sham stimulation. Limitations concerning the specificity of this effect and implications for the role of the asymmetric prefrontal cortical activity in motivated behaviors are discussed. (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).

Gradual plasmon evolution and huge infrared near-field enhancement of metallic bridged nanoparticle dimers.

PubMed

Huang, Yu; Ma, Lingwei; Hou, Mengjing; Xie, Zheng; Zhang, Zhengjun

2016-01-28

By three-dimensional (3D) finite element method (FEM) plasmon mapping, gradual plasmon evolutions of both bonding dipole plasmon (BDP) and charge transfer plasmon (CTP) modes are visualized. In particular, the evolved BDP mode provides a physical insight into the rapid degeneration of electromagnetic hot spots in practical applications, while the rising CTP mode enables a huge near-field enhancement for potential plasmonic devices at infrared wavelengths.

Increasing physical activity through mobile device interventions: A systematic review.

PubMed

Muntaner, Adrià; Vidal-Conti, Josep; Palou, Pere

2016-09-01

Physical inactivity is a health problem that affects people worldwide and has been identified as the fourth largest risk factor for overall mortality (contributing to 6% of deaths globally). Many researchers have tried to increase physical activity levels through traditional methods without much success. Thus, many researchers are turning to mobile technology as an emerging method for changing health behaviours. This systematic review sought to summarise and update the existing scientific literature on increasing physical activity through mobile device interventions, taking into account the methodological quality of the studies. The articles were identified by searching the PubMed, SCOPUS and SPORTDiscus databases for studies published between January 2003 and December 2013. Studies investigating efforts to increase physical activity through mobile phone or even personal digital assistant interventions were included. The search results allowed the inclusion of 11 studies that gave rise to 12 publications. Six of the articles included in this review reported significant increases in physical activity levels. The number of studies using mobile devices for interventions has increased exponentially in the last few years, but future investigations with better methodological quality are needed to draw stronger conclusions regarding how to increase physical activity through mobile device interventions. © The Author(s) 2015.

Gradual electronic health record implementation: new insights on physician and patient adaptation.

PubMed

Shield, Renée R; Goldman, Roberta E; Anthony, David A; Wang, Nina; Doyle, Richard J; Borkan, Jeffrey

2010-01-01

Although there is significant interest in implementation of electronic health records (EHRs), limited data have been published in the United States about how physicians, staff, and patients adapt to this implementation process. The purpose of this research was to examine the effects of EHR implementation, especially regarding physician-patient communication and behaviors and patients' responses. We undertook a 22-month, triangulation design, mixed methods study of gradual EHR implementation in a residency-based family medicine outpatient center. Data collection included participant observation and time measurements of 170 clinical encounters, patient exit interviews, focus groups with nurses, nurse's aides, and office staff, and unstructured observations and interviews with nursing staff and physicians. Analysis involved iterative immersion-crystallization discussion and searches for alternate hypotheses. Patient trust in the physician and security in the physician-patient relationship appeared to override most patients' concerns about information technology. Overall, staff concerns about potential deleterious consequences of EHR implementation were dispelled, positive anticipated outcomes were realized, and unexpected benefits were found. Physicians appeared to become comfortable with the "third actor" in the room, and nursing and office staff resistance to EHR implementation was ameliorated with improved work efficiencies. Unexpected advantages included just-in-time improvements and decreased physician time out of the examination room. Strong patient trust in the physician-patient relationship was maintained and work flow improved with EHR implementation. Gradual EHR implementation may help support the development of beneficial physician and staff adaptations, while maintaining positive patient-physician relationships and fostering the sharing of medical information.

Floral pathway integrator gene expression mediates gradual transmission of environmental and endogenous cues to flowering time.

PubMed

van Dijk, Aalt D J; Molenaar, Jaap

2017-01-01

The appropriate timing of flowering is crucial for the reproductive success of plants. Hence, intricate genetic networks integrate various environmental and endogenous cues such as temperature or hormonal statues. These signals integrate into a network of floral pathway integrator genes. At a quantitative level, it is currently unclear how the impact of genetic variation in signaling pathways on flowering time is mediated by floral pathway integrator genes. Here, using datasets available from literature, we connect Arabidopsis thaliana flowering time in genetic backgrounds varying in upstream signalling components with the expression levels of floral pathway integrator genes in these genetic backgrounds. Our modelling results indicate that flowering time depends in a quite linear way on expression levels of floral pathway integrator genes. This gradual, proportional response of flowering time to upstream changes enables a gradual adaptation to changing environmental factors such as temperature and light.

Designing a gradual transition to a hydrogen economy in Spain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brey, J. J.; Brey, R.; Carazo, A. F.; Contreras, I.; Hernández-Díaz, A. G.; Gallardo, V.

The lack of sustainability of the current Spanish energy system makes it necessary to study the adoption of alternative energy models. One of these is what is known as the hydrogen economy. In this paper, we aim to plan, for the case of Spain, an initial phase for transition to this energy model making use of the potential offered by each Spanish region. Specifically, the target pursued is to satisfy at least 15% of energy demand for transport by 2010 through renewable sources. We plan to attain this target gradually, establishing intermediate stages consisting of supplying 5 and 10% of the energy demand for transport by 2006 and 2008, respectively. The results obtained allow us to determine, for each region, the hydrogen production and consumption, the renewable energy sources used to obtain hydrogen and the transport requirements between regions.

Attentional awakening: gradual modulation of temporal attention in rapid serial visual presentation.

PubMed

Ariga, Atsunori; Yokosawa, Kazuhiko

2008-03-01

Orienting attention to a point in time facilitates processing of an item within rapidly changing surroundings. We used a one-target RSVP task to look for differences in accuracy in reporting a target related to when the target temporally appeared in the sequence. The results show that observers correctly report a target early in the sequence less frequently than later in the sequence. Previous RSVP studies predicted equivalently accurate performances for one target wherever it appeared in the sequence. We named this new phenomenon attentional awakening, which reflects a gradual modulation of temporal attention in a rapid sequence.

Gradual Dinosaur Extinction and Simultaneous Ungulate Radiation in the Hell Creek Formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sloan, Robert E.; Rigby, J. Keith; van Valen, Leigh M.; Gabriel, Diane

1986-05-01

Dinosaur extinction in Montana, Alberta, and Wyoming was a gradual process that began 7 million years before the end of the Cretaceous and accelerated rapidly in the final 0.3 million years of the Cretaceous, during the interval of apparent competition from rapidly evolving immigrating ungulates. This interval involves rapid reduction in both diversity and population density of dinosaurs. The last dinosaurs known are from a channel that contains teeth of Mantuan mammals, seven species of dinosaurs, and Paleocene pollen. The top of this channel is 1.3 meters above the likely position of the iridium anomaly, the Cretaceous/Tertiary boundary.

Vertebrate blood cell volume increases with temperature: implications for aerobic activity.

PubMed

Gillooly, James F; Zenil-Ferguson, Rosana

2014-01-01

Aerobic activity levels increase with body temperature across vertebrates. Differences in these levels, from highly active to sedentary, are reflected in their ecology and behavior. Yet, the changes in the cardiovascular system that allow for greater oxygen supply at higher temperatures, and thus greater aerobic activity, remain unclear. Here we show that the total volume of red blood cells in the body increases exponentially with temperature across vertebrates, after controlling for effects of body size and taxonomy. These changes are accompanied by increases in relative heart mass, an indicator of aerobic activity. The results point to one way vertebrates may increase oxygen supply to meet the demands of greater activity at higher temperatures.

Active Learning Increases Children's Physical Activity across Demographic Subgroups.

PubMed

Bartholomew, John B; Jowers, Esbelle M; Roberts, Gregory; Fall, Anna-Mária; Errisuriz, Vanessa L; Vaughn, Sharon

2018-01-01

Given the need to find more opportunities for physical activity within the elementary school day, this study was designed to asses the impact of I-CAN!, active lessons on: 1) student physical activity (PA) outcomes via accelerometry; and 2) socioeconomic status (SES), race, sex, body mass index (BMI), or fitness as moderators of this impact. Participants were 2,493 fourth grade students (45.9% male, 45.8% white, 21.7% low SES) from 28 central Texas elementary schools randomly assigned to intervention (n=19) or control (n=9). Multilevel regression models evaluated the effect of I-CAN! on PA and effect sizes were calculated. The moderating effects of SES, race, sex, BMI, and fitness were examined in separate models. Students in treatment schools took significantly more steps than those in control schools (β = 125.267, SE = 41.327, p = .002, d = .44). I-CAN! had a significant effect on MVPA with treatment schools realizing 80% (β = 0.796, SE =0.251, p = .001; d = .38) more MVPA than the control schools. There were no significant school-level differences on sedentary behavior (β = -0.177, SE = 0.824, p = .83). SES, race, sex, BMI, and fitness level did not moderate the impact of active learning on step count and MVPA. Active learning increases PA within elementary students, and does so consistently across demographic sub-groups. This is important as these sub-groups represent harder to reach populations for PA interventions. While these lessons may not be enough to help children reach daily recommendations of PA, they can supplement other opportunities for PA. This speaks to the potential of schools to adopt policy change to require active learning.

Changes in digestive enzyme activities during larval development of Chinese loach Paramisgurnus dabryanus (Dabry de Thiersant, 1872).

PubMed

Zhang, Yun-Long; Wu, Qiao-Wan; Hu, Wei-Hua; Wang, Fan; Zhao, Zhong-Bo; He, Hui; Shao, Wei-Han; Fan, Qi-Xue

2015-12-01

The digestive physiology of Chinese loach (Paramisgurnus dabryanus) was studied by assessing the specific and total activities of different pancreatic (trypsin, chymotrypsin, amylase and lipase), gastric (pepsin) and intestinal (alkaline phosphatase and leucine-aminopeptidase) enzymes from hatching to 40 days after hatching (DAH). Larvae were reared at 24.4 ± 0.4 °C and fed with rotifers from mouth opening (4 DAH) to 15 DAH, from 10 to 35 DAH with Cladocera and from 30 to 40 DAH with compound diet. Enzyme activities for trypsin, chymotrypsin, amylase and lipase were detected before the onset of exogenous feeding, indicating that these enzymes were genetically pre-programmed. Most of the pancreatic enzyme specific activities increased until 20 DAH and decreased thereafter. The pepsin activity of Chinese loach was firstly detected at 30 DAH, indicating the appearance of functional gastric gland. Alkaline phosphatase specific activity was detected from hatching onward, showed marked increase and reached the second peak at 20 DAH, while a gradual increase in specific leucine-aminopeptidase activity was observed until the end of the experiment. Accordingly, the larvae of Chinese loach possess a functional digestive system before the onset of exogenous feeding and the digestive capacity gradually increases as development progresses. The abrupt increase in intestinal enzyme activities between 10 and 20 DAH demonstrates onset of juvenile-like digestive mode in Chinese loach larvae. The increase in pepsin activity after 30 DAH indicates the shift from alkaline to acidic digestion in Chinese loach larvae, which may be considered as the onset of weaning.

SOURCE REGIONS OF THE INTERPLANETARY MAGNETIC FIELD AND VARIABILITY IN HEAVY-ION ELEMENTAL COMPOSITION IN GRADUAL SOLAR ENERGETIC PARTICLE EVENTS

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

Ko, Yuan-Kuen; Wang, Yi-Ming; Tylka, Allan J.

Gradual solar energetic particle (SEP) events are those in which ions are accelerated to their observed energies by interactions with a shock driven by a fast coronal mass ejection (CME). Previous studies have shown that much of the observed event-to-event variability can be understood in terms of shock speed and evolution in the shock-normal angle. However, an equally important factor, particularly for the elemental composition, is the origin of the suprathermal seed particles upon which the shock acts. To tackle this issue, we (1) use observed solar-wind speed, magnetograms, and the potential-field source-surface model to map the Sun-L1 interplanetary magneticmore » field (IMF) line back to its source region on the Sun at the time of the SEP observations and (2) then look for a correlation between SEP composition (as measured by Wind and Advanced Composition Explorer at ∼2-30 MeV nucleon{sup –1}) and characteristics of the identified IMF source regions. The study is based on 24 SEP events, identified as a statistically significant increase in ∼20 MeV protons and occurring in 1998 and 2003-2006, when the rate of newly emergent solar magnetic flux and CMEs was lower than in solar-maximum years, and the field-line tracing is therefore more likely to be successful. We find that the gradual SEP Fe/O is correlated with the field strength at the IMF source, with the largest enhancements occurring when the footpoint field is strong due to the nearby presence of an active region (AR). In these cases, other elemental ratios show a strong charge-to-mass (q/M) ordering (at least on average), similar to that found in impulsive events. Such results lead us to suggest that magnetic reconnection in footpoint regions near ARs bias the heavy-ion composition of suprathermal seed ions by processes qualitatively similar to those that produce larger heavy-ion enhancements in impulsive SEP events. To address potential technical concerns about our analysis, we also discuss

Exercising self-control increases relative left frontal cortical activation

PubMed Central

Crowell, Adrienne; Harmon-Jones, Eddie

2016-01-01

Self-control refers to the capacity to override or alter a predominant response tendency. The current experiment tested the hypothesis that exercising self-control temporarily increases approach motivation, as revealed by patterns of electrical activity in the prefrontal cortex. Participants completed a writing task that did vs did not require them to exercise self-control. Then they viewed pictures known to evoke positive, negative or neutral affect. We assessed electroencephalographic (EEG) activity while participants viewed the pictures, and participants reported their trait levels of behavioral inhibition system (BIS) and behavioral activation system (BAS) sensitivity at the end of the study. We found that exercising (vs not exercising) self-control increased relative left frontal cortical activity during picture viewing, particularly among individuals with relatively higher BAS than BIS, and particularly during positive picture viewing. A similar but weaker pattern emerged during negative picture viewing. The results suggest that exercising self-control temporarily increases approach motivation, which may help to explain the aftereffects of self-control (i.e. ego depletion). PMID:26341900

Increased NTPDase Activity in Lymphocytes during Experimental Sepsis

PubMed Central

Bertoncheli, Claudia de Mello; Zimmermann, Carine Eloise Prestes; Jaques, Jeandre Augusto dos Santos; Leal, Cláudio Alberto Martins; Ruchel, Jader Betsch; Rocha, Bruna Cipolatto; Pinheiro, Kelly de Vargas; Souza, Viviane do Carmo Gonçalves; Stainki, Daniel Roulim; Luz, Sônia Cristina Almeida; Schetinger, Maria Rosa Chitolina; Leal, Daniela Bitencourt Rosa

2012-01-01

We investigated in rats induced to sepsis the activity of ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (NTPDase; CD39; E.C. 3.6.1.5), an enzyme involved in the modulation of immune responses. After 12 hours of surgery, lymphocytes were isolated from blood and NTPDase activity was determined. It was also performed the histology of kidney, liver, and lung. The results demonstrated an increase in the hydrolysis of adenosine-5′-triphosphate (ATP) (P < 0.01), but no changes regarding adenosine-5′-monophosphate (ADP) hydrolysis (P > 0.05). Histological analysis showed several morphological changes in the septic group, such as vascular congestion, necrosis, and infiltration of mononuclear cells. It is known that the intracellular milieu contains much more ATP nucleotides than the extracellular. In this context, the increased ATPasic activity was probably induced as a dynamic response to clean up the elevated ATP levels resulting from cellular death. PMID:22645477

Texting to Increase Adolescent Physical Activity: Feasibility Assessment

PubMed Central

Thompson, Debbe; Cantu, Dora; Ramirez, Betsy; Cullen, Karen W.; Baranowski, Tom; Mendoza, Jason; Anderson, Barbara; Jago, Russell; Rodgers, Wendy; Liu, Yan

2016-01-01

Objective Feasibility trials assess whether a behavior change program warrants a definite trial evaluation. This paper reports the feasibility of an intervention consisting of Self Determination Theory-informed text messages, pedometers, and goal prompts to increase adolescent physical activity. Methods A four-group randomized design with baseline and immediate post-study assessments was used. Groups (pedometer; pedometer + goal prompt; pedometer + goal prompt + theory-informed texts; no-treatment control) were systematically varied to assess the additive effect of intervention components on objectively-measured physical activity (ie, ActiGraph). The primary outcome of the 12-week intervention was program feasibility. Changes in average daily step counts and minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity were also examined. Post-intervention research with a sub-set of participants examined program reactions. Results Participants (N = 160) were evenly split by sex, mostly 14-15 years old, and of diverse race/ethnicity. Feasibility criteria were met. Attrition rate was less than two percent. Modest increases in average daily step counts and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity were observed in all groups except the control group. Participants reported positive reactions to the intervention. Conclusions An intervention consisting of pedometers, theory-informed texts, and goal prompts, is a feasible and acceptable method for promoting physical activity to adolescents. PMID:27338994

School-Based Health Promotion Initiative Increases Children's Physical Activity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cluss, Patricia; Lorigan, Devin; Kinsky, Suzanne; Nikolajski, Cara; McDermott, Anne; Bhat, Kiran B.

2016-01-01

Background: Childhood obesity increases health risk, and modest physical activity can impact that risk. Schools have an opportunity to help children become more active. Purpose: This study implemented a program offering extra school-day activity opportunities in a rural school district where 37% of students were obese or overweight in 2005 and…

Social capital, desire to increase physical activity and leisure-time physical activity: a population-based study.

PubMed

Lindström, M

2011-07-01

To investigate the associations between social capital (trust) and leisure-time physical activity. The 2004 Public Health Survey in Skåne is a cross-sectional study. In total, 27,757 individuals aged 18-80 years answered a postal questionnaire (59% participation). Logistic regression models were used to investigate the associations between trust, desire to increase physical activity and leisure-time physical activity. The prevalence of low leisure-time physical activity was 15.3% among men and 13.2% among women. Middle-aged men and older women, respondents born abroad, those with medium/low education, those with the desire to increase physical activity but needing support, and those reporting low trust had significantly higher odds ratios of low leisure-time physical activity than their respective reference groups. The associations between low trust and desire to increase physical activity and between low trust and low leisure-time physical activity remained in the multiple models. The positive association between low trust and low leisure-time physical activity remained after multiple adjustments. There is a concentration of men and women with low leisure-time physical activity who report the desire to increase their physical activity but think that they need support to do so. This group also has a significantly higher prevalence of low trust. Copyright © 2011 The Royal Society for Public Health. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Gradual cut detection using low-level vision for digital video

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Jae-Hyun; Choi, Yeun-Sung; Jang, Ok-bae

1996-09-01

Digital video computing and organization is one of the important issues in multimedia system, signal compression, or database. Video should be segmented into shots to be used for identification and indexing. This approach requires a suitable method to automatically locate cut points in order to separate shot in a video. Automatic cut detection to isolate shots in a video has received considerable attention due to many practical applications; our video database, browsing, authoring system, retrieval and movie. Previous studies are based on a set of difference mechanisms and they measured the content changes between video frames. But they could not detect more special effects which include dissolve, wipe, fade-in, fade-out, and structured flashing. In this paper, a new cut detection method for gradual transition based on computer vision techniques is proposed. And then, experimental results applied to commercial video are presented and evaluated.

[The use of verbal communicative abilities to increase the mean length of utterance in high-functioning autism and Asperger Syndrome].

PubMed

Lopes-Herrera, Simone Aparecida; Almeida, Maria Amélia

2008-01-01

high-functioning autism (HFA) and Asperger Syndrome (AS) are pervasive developmental disorders that present alterations in the communicative and social skills. to use verbal communicative skill strategies (VCS) to increase the mean length of utterance (MLU) produced by individuals with HFA and AS. participants were three 12-year-old males with HFA or AS. Data was collected from videotape recordings of structured verbal interaction sessions with the researcher and each participant during eight months. In order to verify the effects of the intervention, a multiple baseline research design across the participants was used, being composed by two phases: baseline (BL) and intervention (I). In the BL phase, spontaneous interaction situations occurred between the researcher and each participant. In the first phase of I, the intervention sessions occurred twice a week and gradually worked their way to once a week, but only after each participant had reached the goal of increasing the MLU. The number of sessions decreased gradually to avoid any drop in performance. The strategies which were used were divided in blocks of activities: spontaneous conversation; activities involving specific language difficulties; games with rules; story/report telling; and meta-linguistic activities. the application of the proposed strategies for verbal communicative abilities achieved the purpose of increasing the MLU of all three participants. suggestions are made for further researches that investigate the maintenance of the results in other environments and during the interaction with different communication partners.

Exercising self-control increases relative left frontal cortical activation.

PubMed

Schmeichel, Brandon J; Crowell, Adrienne; Harmon-Jones, Eddie

2016-02-01

Self-control refers to the capacity to override or alter a predominant response tendency. The current experiment tested the hypothesis that exercising self-control temporarily increases approach motivation, as revealed by patterns of electrical activity in the prefrontal cortex. Participants completed a writing task that did vs did not require them to exercise self-control. Then they viewed pictures known to evoke positive, negative or neutral affect. We assessed electroencephalographic (EEG) activity while participants viewed the pictures, and participants reported their trait levels of behavioral inhibition system (BIS) and behavioral activation system (BAS) sensitivity at the end of the study. We found that exercising (vs not exercising) self-control increased relative left frontal cortical activity during picture viewing, particularly among individuals with relatively higher BAS than BIS, and particularly during positive picture viewing. A similar but weaker pattern emerged during negative picture viewing. The results suggest that exercising self-control temporarily increases approach motivation, which may help to explain the aftereffects of self-control (i.e. ego depletion). © The Author (2015). Published by Oxford University Press. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

[Increase of physical activity by improvement of the nutritional status].

PubMed

Torún, B

1989-09-01

Physical activity is affected by nutritional modifications and, in turn, influences growth, cognition, social behavior, work performance and other functions. Studies in preschool children showed that: 1. A decrease in energy intake during four to seven days reduced the time allocated to energy-demanding activities and increased sedentary activities. 2. Children with mild weight deficit were more sedentary than well-nourished counterparts. 3. Children became more active when nutritional status improved. 4. A 10% reduction in energy intake reduced total energy expenditure by 15% without affecting weight gain nor basal metabolism. Studies of men working in non-mechanized agriculture showed that: 1. Dietary improvements led to faster salaried work, reduction of napping time and greater physical activity after work. 2. An increase in energy intake increased total daily energy expenditure, tending to maintain energy balance and relatively stable body weight within the cyclic variations of the agricultural year. 3. Food supplementation did not necessarily improve productivity. Other labor incentives without dietary improvements increased energy expenditure during working hours, which resulted in weight loss. In conclusion, good health and nutrition provide the biological basis for adequate physical activity that may improve cognitive development, social interactions, economic productivity and the quality of life of an individual or a population, but other incentives are required for the optimal expression of that biologic potential.

Increased Rho kinase activity in congestive heart failure

PubMed Central

Dong, Ming; Liao, James K.; Fang, Fang; Lee, Alex Pui-Wai; Yan, Bryan Ping-Yen; Liu, Ming; Yu, Cheuk-Man

2012-01-01

Aims Rho kinases (ROCKs) are the best characterized effectors of the small G-protein RhoA, and play a role in enhanced vasoconstriction in animal models of congestive heart failure (CHF). This study examined if ROCK activity is increased in CHF and how it is associated with the outcome in CHF. Methods and results Patients admitted with CHF (n =178), disease controls (n =31), and normal subjects (n =30) were studied. Baseline ROCK activity was measured by phosphorylation of themyosin-binding subunit in peripheral leucocytes. The patients were followed up for 14.4 ± 7.2 months (range 0.5–26 months) or until the occurrence of cardiac death. The ROCK activity in CHF patients (2.93 ± 0.87) was significantly higher than that of the disease control (2.06 ± 0.38, P < 0.001) and normal control (1.57 ± 0.43, P < 0.001) groups. Similarly, protein levels of ROCK1 and ROCK2 as well as the activity of RhoA in CHF were significantly higher than in disease controls and normal controls (all P < 0.05). Dyspnoea at rest (β =0.338, P < 0.001), low left ventricular ejection fraction (β = –0.277, P < 0.001), and high creatinine (β =0.202, P =0.006) were independent predictors of the baseline ROCK activity in CHF. Forty-five patients died within 2 years follow-up (25.3%). Combining ROCK activity and N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) had an incremental value (log rank χ2 =11.62) in predicting long-term mortality when compared with only NT-proBNP (log rank χ2 =5.16, P < 0.05). Conclusion ROCK activity is increased in CHF and it might be associated with the mortality in CHF. ROCK activity might be a complementary biomarker to CHF risk stratification. PMID:22588320

[Analysis of the results of bone healing in femurs lengthened by the gradual distraction method in children and adolescents].

PubMed

Jochymek, J; Skvaril, J; Ondrus, S

2009-10-01

Treatment of leg length inequality via lengthening of the shorter extremity is an infrequent orthopedic procedure due to the requirement of special distraction devices and possible serious complications. Essential qualitative changes in operative technique development are associated with the name of G. A. Ilizarov, who paved the way for the autoregenerate gradual distraction method in the 1950s. In the years 1990 through 2007 a total of 67 patients underwent femur lengthening via gradual distraction using various types of external fixators at the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Orthopedics, and Traumatology, Faculty Hospital in Brno. The quality of bone healing was monitored and a number of parameters followed and statistically evaluated using regularly scheduled X-ray examinations. In 13 cases we had to remove the external fixator following the distraction phase, perform an osteosynthesis via a splint and fill the distraction gap via spongioplasty. The bone healing was satisfactory in the remaining 54 patients and the lengthened bone required no other fixation method. The analysis showed statistically significant deceleration in bone healing following distraction in female patients over 12 years of age, and in boys over 14 years of age. Lack of periosteal callus five weeks after surgery always signified serious problems in further healing. Severe complications were recorded in 11 cases during the distraction phase, and in 12 cases after the removal of the distraction apparatus. Our results fully correspond with the data and experience of others cited authors. In addition our study showed deceleration in bone healing in girls over 12 years and in boys over 14 years of age and serious problem in healing when is lack of periostal callus five weeks after surgery. The aim of this report was to present the results of our study of distraction gap bone healing using the gradual lengthening approach. Key words: leg lengthening, gradual distraction, external fixation, leg

Increased serum butyrylcholinesterase activity in type IIb hyperlipidaemic patients.

PubMed

Kálmán, János; Juhász, Anna; Rakonczay, Zoltán; Abrahám, György; Zana, Marianna; Boda, Krisztina; Farkas, Tibor; Penke, Botond; Janka, Zoltán

2004-07-23

The inheritance of the apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4) allele has been shown to increase the plasma cholesterol level, but little information is as concerns the association of the APOE genotype and hyperlipidaemia and the activities of two serum enzymes, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). Blood samples from 55 type IIb hyperlipidaemic, non-demented patients and 55 age- and sex-matched controls were therefore examined in this pilot study. A significantly increased BChE activity was found in the serum of type IIb hyperlipidaemic patients, but the AChE activity did not differ significantly as compared with that in the control group. The APOE4 allele was significantly overrepresented among the hyperlipidaemic probands, but neither serum cholinesterase activity was affected by the dosage of the APOE4 gene. Our results point to a possible association between an abnormal lipid metabolism and the BChE activity and might have implications as regards the pathomechanism of both Alzheimer's and vascular dementias and the cholinesterase inhibitor therapy of dementing disorders.

Abrupt Strategy Change Underlies Gradual Performance Change: Bayesian Hierarchical Models of Component and Aggregate Strategy Use

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wynton, Sarah K. A.; Anglim, Jeromy

2017-01-01

While researchers have often sought to understand the learning curve in terms of multiple component processes, few studies have measured and mathematically modeled these processes on a complex task. In particular, there remains a need to reconcile how abrupt changes in strategy use can co-occur with gradual changes in task completion time. Thus,…

Do Increases in Patient Activation Result in Improved Self-Management Behaviors?

PubMed Central

Hibbard, Judith H; Mahoney, Eldon R; Stock, Ronald; Tusler, Martin

2007-01-01

Objective The purpose of this study is to determine whether patient activation is a changing or changeable characteristic and to assess whether changes in activation also are accompanied by changes in health behavior. Study Methods To obtain variability in activation and self-management behavior, a controlled trial with chronic disease patients randomized into either intervention or control conditions was employed. In addition, changes in activation that occurred in the total sample were also examined for the study period. Using Mplus growth models, activation latent growth classes were identified and used in the analysis to predict changes in health behaviors and health outcomes. Data Sources Survey data from the 479 participants were collected at baseline, 6 weeks, and 6 months. Principal Findings Positive change in activation is related to positive change in a variety of self-management behaviors. This is true even when the behavior in question is not being performed at baseline. When the behavior is already being performed at baseline, an increase in activation is related to maintaining a relatively high level of the behavior over time. The impact of the intervention, however, was less clear, as the increase in activation in the intervention group was matched by nearly equal increases in the control group. Conclusions Results suggest that if activation is increased, a variety of improved behaviors will follow. The question still remains, however, as to what interventions will improve activation. PMID:17610432

Enhanced Attention to Speaking Faces Versus Other Event Types Emerges Gradually Across Infancy

PubMed Central

Bahrick, Lorraine E.; Todd, James Torrence; Castellanos, Irina; Sorondo, Barbara M.

2017-01-01

The development of attention to dynamic faces vs. objects providing synchronous audiovisual vs. silent visual stimulation was assessed in a large sample of infants. Maintaining attention to the faces and voices of people speaking is critical for perceptual, cognitive, social, and language development. However, no studies have systematically assessed when, if, or how attention to speaking faces emerges and changes across infancy. Two measures of attention maintenance, habituation time (HT) and look-away rate (LAR), were derived from cross-sectional data of 2- to 8-month-old infants (N = 801). Results indicated that attention to audiovisual faces and voices was maintained across age, whereas attention to each of the other event types (audiovisual objects, silent dynamic faces, silent dynamic objects) declined across age. This reveals a gradually emerging advantage in attention maintenance (longer habituation times, lower look-away rates) for audiovisual speaking faces compared with the other three event types. At 2 months, infants showed no attentional advantage for faces (with greater attention to audiovisual than to visual events), at 3 months, they attended more to dynamic faces than objects (in the presence or absence of voices), and by 4 to 5 and 6 to 8 months significantly greater attention emerged to temporally coordinated faces and voices of people speaking compared with all other event types. Our results indicate that selective attention to coordinated faces and voices over other event types emerges gradually across infancy, likely as a function of experience with multimodal, redundant stimulation from person and object events. PMID:27786526

Pituitary adenylate cyclase 1 receptor internalization and endosomal signaling mediate the pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide-induced increase in guinea pig cardiac neuron excitability.

PubMed

Merriam, Laura A; Baran, Caitlin N; Girard, Beatrice M; Hardwick, Jean C; May, Victor; Parsons, Rodney L

2013-03-06

After G-protein-coupled receptor activation and signaling at the plasma membrane, the receptor complex is often rapidly internalized via endocytic vesicles for trafficking into various intracellular compartments and pathways. The formation of signaling endosomes is recognized as a mechanism that produces sustained intracellular signals that may be distinct from those generated at the cell surface for cellular responses including growth, differentiation, and survival. Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP; Adcyap1) is a potent neurotransmitter/neurotrophic peptide and mediates its diverse cellular functions in part through internalization of its cognate G-protein-coupled PAC1 receptor (PAC1R; Adcyap1r1). In the present study, we examined whether PAC1R endocytosis participates in the regulation of neuronal excitability. Although PACAP increased excitability in 90% of guinea pig cardiac neurons, pretreatment with Pitstop 2 or dynasore to inhibit clathrin and dynamin I/II, respectively, suppressed the PACAP effect. Subsequent addition of inhibitor after the PACAP-induced increase in excitability developed gradually attenuated excitability with no changes in action potential properties. Likewise, the PACAP-induced increase in excitability was markedly decreased at ambient temperature. Receptor trafficking studies with GFP-PAC1 cell lines demonstrated the efficacy of Pitstop 2, dynasore, and low temperatures at suppressing PAC1R endocytosis. In contrast, brefeldin A pretreatments to disrupt Golgi vesicle trafficking did not blunt the PACAP effect, and PACAP/PAC1R signaling still increased neuronal cAMP production even with endocytic blockade. Our results demonstrate that PACAP/PAC1R complex endocytosis is a key step for the PACAP modulation of cardiac neuron excitability.

Dissimilarity of increased phosphatidylserine-positive microparticles and associated coagulation activation in acute coronary syndromes.

PubMed

Liu, Yan; He, Zhangxiu; Zhang, Yan; Dong, Zengxiang; Bi, Yayan; Kou, Junjie; Zhou, Jin; Shi, Jialan

2016-08-01

We evaluated cellular origin, numbers, and procoagulant activity of phosphatidylserine-positive microparticles (MPs) among subgroups in acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Parameters were measured on admission, days 1 (within 24 h of admission), 2, 3, and 7. All ST-elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients presented more than 3 h from symptom onset and received fibrinolysis treatment; controls included unstable angina and non-STEMI patients as well as healthy controls. Phosphatidylserine-positive MPs were detected by flow cytometry, whereas procoagulant activity was assessed by coagulation time, purified coagulation complex assays, and fibrin formation. MP-induced fibrins were visualized by confocal microscopy. On admission, the total MP count was ∼2.5-fold higher in the ACS groups compared with the healthy controls (P<0.05), primarily originating from platelets and endothelial cells, and there were no significant differences among ACS subgroups. Specifically, leukocyte-derived and erythrocyte-derived MPs were higher in the STEMI group compared with unstable angina and non-STEMI groups (both P<0.05). Further, MPs from the ACS groups reduced coagulation time by 27.5% and induced intrinsic and extrinsic FXase, prothrombinase, and fibrin formation by 2.8-, 2.3-, 2.5-, and 1.7-fold, respectively (P<0.05 for all), whereas blocking phosphatidylserine with lactadherin inhibited ∼70% of procoagulant activity. MP number and concomitant coagulation decreased significantly by day 2 and continued to decrease gradually during the recovery period. This study shows that MP characteristics from circulating blood may be used as prognostic indicators to reflect the origin cell of activation and thrombophilic states found in ACS subgroups.

Smoking increases salivary arginase activity in patients with dental implants.

PubMed

Queiroz, D A; Cortelli, J R; Holzhausen, M; Rodrigues, E; Aquino, D R; Saad, W A

2009-09-01

It is believed that an increased arginase activity may lead to less nitric oxide production, which consequently increases the susceptibility to bacterial infection. Considering the hypothesis that smoking may alter the arginase activity and that smoking is considered a risk factor to dental implant survival, the present study aimed at evaluating the effect of smoking on the salivary arginase activity of patients with dental implants. Salivary samples of 41 subjects were collected: ten non-smoking and with no dental implants (group A), ten non-smoking subjects with dental implants (group B), ten smoking subjects with implants (group C), and 11 smoking subjects with no dental implants (group D). The levels of salivary arginase activity were determined by the measurement of L-ornithine and expressed as mIU/mg of protein. A significant increase in the salivary arginase activity was verified in groups C (64.26 +/- 16.95) and D (49.55 +/- 10.01) compared to groups A (10.04 +/- 1.95, p = 0.00001 and p = 0.0110, groups C and D, respectively) and B (11.77 +/- 1.45, p = 0.00001 and p = 0.0147, groups C and D, respectively). No significant difference was found between groups C and D (p = 0.32). Within the limits of the present study, it can be concluded that salivary arginase activity is increased in smoking subjects with dental implants in contrast to non-smoking subjects with dental implants, therefore suggesting a possible mechanism by which cigarette smoking may lead to implant failure. The analysis of salivary arginase activity may represent an important tool to prevent implant failure in the near future.

Onion quercetin monoglycosides alter microbial activity and increase antioxidant capacity.

PubMed

Grzelak-Błaszczyk, Katarzyna; Milala, Joanna; Kosmala, Monika; Kołodziejczyk, Krzysztof; Sójka, Michał; Czarnecki, Andrzej; Klewicki, Robert; Juśkiewicz, Jerzy; Fotschki, Bartosz; Jurgoński, Adam

2018-06-01

The effects on fermentation processes in the digestive tract, the biochemical parameters and antioxidant capacity of blood in rats fed high-fat diets with quercetin (Q) and quercetin with quercetin monoglycosides (Q+MQ) preparations obtained from onion waste were evaluated. Four groups of eight animals were fed for 4 weeks with a control diet (C), a high-fat diet (HF) and high-fat diets with 0.15% addition of Q and Q+MQ preparations. HF caused an increase in alanine transaminase (ALT), non-high-density lipoprotein (non-HDL) and the atherogenic index AII vs. C and a decrease in the proportion of HDL in total cholesterol (TC). Q and Q+MQ showed a tendency to moderate the values aspartate transaminase (P=.087), ALT (P<.05), TC (P=.068), non-HDL cholesterol (P<.05), triglycerides (P=.064) and the atherogenic index AII (P<.05). Q+MQ significantly increased the activity of α-glucosidase (P<.05 vs. HF), β-glucosidase (P<.05) and β-galactosidase (P<.05 vs. C and Q). Q increased activity of β-glucosidase (P<.001 vs. C and HF). Both increased the activity of β-glucuronidase (P<.05 vs. C and HF). Both increased the antioxidant capacity of the hydrophilic fraction in serum (P<.05 vs. C and HF), and Q enhanced that of the lipid fraction (P<.001). Q preparation contained 70% quercetin, and Q+MQ preparation contained 29% quercetin and 13% quercetin monoglycosides, mainly quercetin-4'-glucoside. Both exhibited high antioxidant capacity. Supplementation with Q and Q+MQ increased the enzymatic activity of the intestinal microbiota and the antioxidant capacity of blood and revealed a tendency to improve the blood lipid profile. MQ were particularly effective in stimulating the bacterial enzymatic activity. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Use of an open-loop system to increase physical activity

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

This study evaluated the effectiveness of an open-loop system that reinforces physical activity with TV watching to increase children’s physical activity. Non-overweight, sedentary boys and girls (8-12 y) were randomized to a group that received feedback of activity counts + reinforcement for physic...

Increased choline kinase activity in 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced rat colon cancer.

PubMed

Nakagami, K; Uchida, T; Ohwada, S; Koibuchi, Y; Morishita, Y

1999-11-01

Cancer cells acquire particular characteristics that benefit their proliferation. We previously reported that human colon cancers examined had increased choline kinase activity and phosphocholine levels. The elevated phosphocholine levels were in part due to both activation of choline kinase and increased choline kinase alpha protein levels. In this report, we analyzed choline kinase, which catalyzes the phosphorylation of choline to produce phosphocholine, in rat 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH)-induced colon cancer. This study is the first to demonstrate increased choline kinase alpha enzymatic activity, protein levels, and mRNA levels in DMH-induced colon cancer as well as human colon cancer, although phosphocholine was not increased in DMH-induced rat cancer. The increase in the mRNA level was partly due to an increase in the transcription of the choline kinase alpha gene. The increased choline kinase activity may be a specific characteristic acquired by cancer cells that benefits their proliferation.

Influence of pressure changes on recruitment pattern and neck muscle activities during Cranio-Cervical Flexion Tests (CCFTs).

PubMed

Park, Junhyung; Hur, Jingang; Ko, Taesung

2015-01-01

The muscle activity of the deep cervical flexors is emphasized more than that of the superficial cervical flexors, and it has been reported that functional disorders of the longuscolli are found in patients who experience neck pain. The objective of this study was to analyze the recruitment patterns and muscle activities of the cervical flexors during Cranio-Cervical Flexion Tests (CCFTs) through real-time ultrasonography and surface electromyography with a view to presenting appropriate pressure levels for deep cervical flexor exercise protocols based on the results of the analysis. The twenty subjects without neck pain were trained until they became accustomed to CCFTs, and the pressure level was increased gradually from 20 mmHg to 40 mmHg by increasing the pressure level 5 mmHg at a time. Real-time ultrasonography images of the longuscolli and the sternocleidomastoid were taken to measure the amounts of changes in the thicknesses of these muscles, and surface electromyography was implemented to observe the muscle activity of the sternocleidomastoid. The measured value is RMS. According to the results of the ultrasonography, the muscle thicknesses of both the longuscolli and the sternocleidomastoid showed significant increases, as the pressure increased up to 40 mmHg (p< 0.05). The differences in the muscle thicknesses at all individual pressure levels showed significant increases (p< 0.05). According to the results of the electromyography, the muscle activity of the sternocleidomastoid gradually increased as the pressure increased up to 40 mmHg, the increases were significant between 20 mmHg and 25 mmHg, between 30 mmHg and 35 mmHg (p< 0.05). The pressure levels of exercise methods at which the muscle activity of the deep cervical flexors is maximally increased and the muscle activity of the superficial cervical flexors is minimally increased are 25 mmHg-30 mmHg.

Relationship between solitary pulmonary nodule lung cancer and CT image features based on gradual clustering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Weipeng

2017-06-01

The relationship between the medical characteristics of lung cancers and computer tomography (CT) images are explored so as to improve the early diagnosis rate of lung cancers. This research collected CT images of patients with solitary pulmonary nodule lung cancer, and used gradual clustering methodology to classify them. Preliminary classifications were made, followed by continuous modification and iteration to determine the optimal condensation point, until iteration stability was achieved. Reasonable classification results were obtained. the clustering results fell into 3 categories. The first type of patients was mostly female, with ages between 50 and 65 years. CT images of solitary pulmonary nodule lung cancer for this group contain complete lobulation and burr, with pleural indentation; The second type of patients was mostly male with ages between 50 and 80 years. CT images of solitary pulmonary nodule lung cancer for this group contain complete lobulation and burr, but with no pleural indentation; The third type of patients was also mostly male with ages between 50 and 80 years. CT images for this group showed no abnormalities. the application of gradual clustering methodology can scientifically classify CT image features of patients with lung cancer in the initial lesion stage. These findings provide the basis for early detection and treatment of malignant lesions in patients with lung cancer.

Does physical activity increase the risk of unsafe sun exposure?

PubMed

Jardine, Andrew; Bright, Margaret; Knight, Libby; Perina, Heather; Vardon, Paul; Harper, Catherine

2012-04-01

Recent increases in the prevalence of self-reported participation in physical activity are encouraging and beneficial for health overall. However, the implications for sun safety need to be considered, particularly in Australia, which has the highest incidence of skin cancer in the world. This study investigated the relationship between physical activity and sunburn to determine if there is a need for integration of sun safety in physical activity promotion. During the 2009/10 southern hemisphere summer, 7802 adults aged 18 to 74 years participated in a computer-assisted telephone interview survey which included a range of self-reported health measures including physical activity, sunburn, skin type, sun protection behaviour and demographic questions. Multivariate logistic regression modelling was undertaken to estimate the association between physical activity and sunburn. Those who reported doing any level of physical activity were significantly more likely to report having experienced sunburn in the past 12 months and on the last weekend, compared with those who did none, with the strongest association among those who undertook 7 hours or more. Each hour of physical activity was associated with a modest increase in the odds of experiencing sunburn in the previous 12 months (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.010-1.037) and weekend (OR 1.04, 95% CI: 1.023-1.065), after adjusting for potential confounding variables. This study highlights the need for sun protection to be given more prominence in physical activity promotion in order to optimise health benefits without increasing the prevalence of sunburn and associated skin cancer risk.

Vitamin D increases plasma renin activity independently of plasma Ca2+ via hypovolemia and β-adrenergic activity

PubMed Central

Atchison, Douglas K.; Harding, Pamela

2013-01-01

1, 25-Dihydroxycholechalciferol (calcitriol) and 19-nor-1, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D2 (paricalcitol) are vitamin D receptor (VDR) agonists. Previous data suggest VDR agonists may actually increase renin-angiotensin activity, and this has always been assumed to be mediated by hypercalcemia. We hypothesized that calcitriol and paricalcitol would increase plasma renin activity (PRA) independently of plasma Ca2+ via hypercalciuria-mediated polyuria, hypovolemia, and subsequent increased β-adrenergic sympathetic activity. We found that both calcitriol and paricalcitol increased PRA threefold (P < 0.01). Calcitriol caused hypercalcemia, but paricalcitol did not. Both calcitriol and paricalcitol caused hypercalciuria (9- and 7-fold vs. control, P < 0.01) and polyuria (increasing 2.6- and 2.2-fold vs. control, P < 0.01). Paricalcitol increased renal calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) expression, suggesting a potential cause of paricalcitol-mediated hypercalciuria and polyuria. Volume replacement completely normalized calcitriol-stimulated PRA and lowered plasma epinephrine by 43% (P < 0.05). β-Adrenergic blockade also normalized calcitriol-stimulated PRA. Cyclooxygenase-2 inhibition had no effect on calcitriol-stimulated PRA. Our data demonstrate that vitamin D increases PRA independently of plasma Ca2+ via hypercalciuria, polyuria, hypovolemia, and increased β-adrenergic activity. PMID:23926179

Best Practices and Recommendations for Increasing Physical Activity in Youth

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Erwin, Heather; Beets, Michael W.; Centeio, Erin; Morrow, James R., Jr.

2014-01-01

Many efforts to increase the physical activity levels of Americans have been introduced and implemented over the past 20 years. National Physical Activity Guidelines have been established, and the National Physical Activity Plan (NPAP) is now in place, which includes a specific sector dedicated to education. This article addresses the Education…

Adolescent Activity-Based Anorexia Increases Anxiety-Like Behavior in Adulthood

PubMed Central

Kinzig, Kimberly P.; Hargrave, Sara L.

2010-01-01

Activity-based anorexia is a paradigm that induces increased physical activity, reduced food intake, and heightened activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in adult rats. To investigate whether experience with activity-based anorexia produced enduring effects on brain and behavior, female adolescent rats experienced activity-based anorexia during adolescence and were tested in adulthood for anxiety-like behavior on an elevated plus maze and in an open field. Analysis of elevated plus maze and open field behavior in adulthood revealed that rats that experienced activity-based anorexia during adolescence, but not rats that were simply food restricted, displayed increased anxiety-like behavior in adulthood. Plasma corticosterone and expression levels of corticotropin- releasing hormone mRNA in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus and in the central nucleus of the amygdala were significantly elevated in adult rats that had undergone activity-based anorexia in adolescence in response to the open field exposure, as compared to control rats. These data demonstrate enduring effects of adolescent activity-based anorexia on anxiety-like behavior and neuroendocrine factors critical in stress responsivity in adulthood. Furthermore, we demonstrate that activity-based anorexia during adolescence serves as a model whereby prolonged anxiety is induced, allowing for evaluation of the behavioral and neural correlates of mediating anxiety-like behaviors in adulthood. PMID:20566408

Propionibacterium acnes is developing gradual increase in resistance to oral tetracyclines.

PubMed

Nakase, Keisuke; Nakaminami, Hidemasa; Takenaka, Yuko; Hayashi, Nobukazu; Kawashima, Makoto; Noguchi, Norihisa

2017-01-01

Propionibacterium acnes is an anaerobic bacterium that causes deep infection in organs and prosthetic joints, in addition to acne vulgaris. Many tetracycline-resistant P. acnes strains have been isolated because oral tetracyclines are frequently used as an acne treatment against P. acnes. In this study, we found a novel tetracycline resistance mechanism in P. acnes. Three doxycycline-resistant (MIC: 16 µg ml-1) strains were isolated from 69 strains in acne patients in Japan between 2010 and 2011. Additionally, six insusceptible strains (MIC: 1-2 µg ml-1) that had reduced susceptibility compared to susceptible strains (MIC: ≤0.5 µg ml-1) were identified. All doxycycline-resistant strains had a G1036C mutation in the 16S rRNA gene in addition to an amino acid substitution in the ribosomal S10 protein encoded by rpsJ. By contrast, insusceptible strains had an amino acid substitution in the S10 protein but no mutation in the 16S rRNA. When the mutant with decreased susceptibility to doxycycline was obtained in vitro, only the mutated S10 protein was found (MIC: 4 µg ml-1), not the mutated 16S rRNA gene. This result shows that the S10 protein amino acid substitution contributes to reduced doxycycline susceptibility in P. acnes and suggests that tetracycline resistance is acquired through a 16S rRNA mutation after the S10 protein amino acid substitution causes reduced susceptibility.

Increasing uptake of physical activity: a social ecological approach.

PubMed

Cochrane, Thomas; Davey, Rachel Caroline

2008-01-01

Increasing population physical activity (PA) is a public health priority. An approach to increasing PA in an urban community, based on the social ecology model, is presented and evaluated. A quasi-experimental (non-equivalent control group) design was chosen to test whether this approach can increase, significantly, the population proportion that is physically active. Two deprived inner-city electoral ward areas of Sheffield, UK, with similar socio-demographic and health profiles were selected. Implementation was carried out in five phases over 21 months: preparation and piloting, initial survey estimates, community awareness campaign, PA intervention and evaluation. Impact was evaluated by recording uptake and attendance at all sessions, and using a post-intervention postal survey. At follow-up, questionnaires were sent to 2500 randomly selected addresses in both areas, which assessed changes in PA, health and PA participation over the last year. A pilot baseline survey confirmed similar proportions taking some form of PA on most days: intervention 36% (25-47), control 33% (21-45). At follow-up, 38 different activity groups were in place and 1275 individuals had attended at least one activity. Satisfactorily completed responses were received from 1532 (31%), 55% (846) intervention, 45% (686) control. Relative to the control, the intervention sample demonstrated trends towards: being more physically active compared with one year ago, greater readiness to take up PA, better general health and improved health compared with one year ago (p < or = 0.001). Further, 30.6% (intervention) vs 18.3% (control) reported an increase in PA compared with one year ago, while 13.7% (intervention) vs 24.5% (control) reported no intention to exercise. These differences in proportions translated to an overall effect size estimate of 0.23 for the intervention. Relative to those whose PA had remained the same, intervention area residents were more likely to report being more active

Anoxia increases potassium conductance in hippocampal nerve cells.

PubMed

Hansen, A J; Hounsgaard, J; Jahnsen, H

1982-07-01

The effect of anoxia on nerve cell function was studied by intra- and extracellular microelectrode recordings from the CA1 and CA3 region in guinea pig hippocampal slices. Hyperpolarization and concomitant reduction of the nerve cell input resistance was observed early during anoxia. During this period the spontaneous activity first disappeared, then the evoked activity gradually disappeared. The hyperpolarization was followed by depolarization and an absence of a measurable input resistance. All the induced changes were reversed when the slice was reoxygenated. Reversal of the electro-chemical gradient for Cl- across the nerve cell membrane did not affect the course of events during anoxia. Aminopyridines blocked the anoxic hyperpolarization and attenuated the decrease of membrane resistance, but had no effect on the later depolarization. Blockers of synaptic transmission. Mn++, Mg++ and of Na+-channels (TTX) were without effect on the nerve cell changes during anoxia. It is suggested that the reduction of nerve cell excitability in anoxia is primarily due to increased K+-conductance. Thus, the nerve cells are hyperpolarized and the input resistance reduced, causing higher threshold and reduction of synaptic potentials. The mechanism of the K+-conductance activation is unknown at present.

Sonic hedgehog pathway activation increases mitochondrial abundance and activity in hippocampal neurons

PubMed Central

Yao, Pamela J.; Manor, Uri; Petralia, Ronald S.; Brose, Rebecca D.; Wu, Ryan T. Y.; Ott, Carolyn; Wang, Ya-Xian; Charnoff, Ari; Lippincott-Schwartz, Jennifer; Mattson, Mark P.

2017-01-01

Mitochondria are essential organelles whose biogenesis, structure, and function are regulated by many signaling pathways. We present evidence that, in hippocampal neurons, activation of the Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway affects multiple aspects of mitochondria. Mitochondrial mass was increased significantly in neurons treated with Shh. Using biochemical and fluorescence imaging analyses, we show that Shh signaling activity reduces mitochondrial fission and promotes mitochondrial elongation, at least in part, via suppression of the mitochondrial fission protein dynamin-like GTPase Drp1. Mitochondria from Shh-treated neurons were more electron-dense, as revealed by electron microscopy, and had higher membrane potential and respiratory activity. We further show that Shh protects neurons against a variety of stresses, including the mitochondrial poison rotenone, amyloid β-peptide, hydrogen peroxide, and high levels of glutamate. Collectively our data suggest a link between Shh pathway activity and the physiological properties of mitochondria in hippocampal neurons. PMID:27932496

Diffusion models of the flanker task: Discrete versus gradual attentional selection

PubMed Central

White, Corey N.; Ratcliff, Roger; Starns, Jeffrey S.

2011-01-01

The present study tested diffusion models of processing in the flanker task, in which participants identify a target that is flanked by items that indicate the same (congruent) or opposite response (incongruent). Single- and dual-process flanker models were implemented in a diffusion-model framework and tested against data from experiments that manipulated response bias, speed/accuracy tradeoffs, attentional focus, and stimulus configuration. There was strong mimcry among the models, and each captured the main trends in the data for the standard conditions. However, when more complex conditions were used, a single-process spotlight model captured qualitative and quantitative patterns that the dual-process models could not. Since the single-process model provided the best balance of fit quality and parsimony, the results indicate that processing in the simple versions of the flanker task is better described by gradual rather than discrete narrowing of attention. PMID:21964663

Texting to increase adolescent physical activity: Feasibility assessment

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Feasibility trials assess whether a behavior change program warrants a definite trial evaluation. This paper reports the feasibility of an intervention consisting of Self Determination Theory-informed text messages, pedometers, and goal prompts to increase adolescent physical activity. A 4-group ran...

Patterns of fast synaptic cholinergic activation of neurons in the celiac ganglia of cats.

PubMed

Niel, J P; Clerc, N; Jule, Y

1988-12-01

Fast nicotinic transmission was studied in vitro in neurons of isolated cat celiac ganglia. In the absence of nerve stimulation, neurons could be classified into three types: silent neurons, synaptically activated neurons, and spontaneously discharging neurons. In all three types, fast synaptic activation could be obtained in single neurons by stimulating with a single pulse both the splanchnic nerves or one of the peripheral nerves connected to the ganglia. During repetitive nerve stimulation, a gradual depression of the central and peripheral fast nicotinic activation occurred, which was not affected by phentolamine plus propranolol, domperidone, atropine, or naloxone. Repetitive nerve stimulation was followed by a long lasting discharge of excitatory postsynaptic potentials and action potentials that decreased gradually with time. This discharge, which was probably due to presynaptic or prejunctional facilitation of acetylcholine release from cholinergic terminals, was reduced by the application of phentolamine plus propranolol, domperidone, or atropine and increased with naloxone. The existence of the mechanisms described in this study reflects the complexity of the integrative processes at work in neurons of the cat celiac ganglia that involve fast synaptic cholinergic activation.

Monitoring seasonal bat activity on a coastal barrier island in Maryland, USA.

PubMed

Johnson, Joshua B; Gates, J Edward; Zegre, Nicolas P

2011-02-01

Research on effects of wind turbines on bats has increased dramatically in recent years because of significant numbers of bats killed by rotating wind turbine blades. Whereas most research has focused on the Midwest and inland portions of eastern North America, bat activity and migration on the Atlantic Coast has largely been unexamined. We used three long-term acoustic monitoring stations to determine seasonal bat activity patterns on the Assateague Island National Seashore, a barrier island off the coast of Maryland, from 2005 to 2006. We recorded five species, including eastern red bats (Lasiurus borealis), big brown bats (Eptesicus fuscus), hoary bats (Lasiurus cinereus), tri-colored bats (Perimyotis subflavus), and silver-haired bats (Lasionycteris noctivagans). Seasonal bat activity (number of bat passes recorded) followed a cosine function and gradually increased beginning in April, peaked in August, and declined gradually until cessation in December. Based on autoregressive models, inter-night bat activity was autocorrelated for lags of seven nights or fewer but varied among acoustic monitoring stations. Higher nightly temperatures and lower wind speeds positively affected bat activity. When autoregressive model predictions were fitted to the observed nightly bat pass totals, model residuals>2 standard deviations from the mean existed only during migration periods, indicating that periodic increases in bat activity could not be accounted for by seasonal trends and weather variables alone. Rather, the additional bat passes were attributable to migrating bats. We conclude that bats, specifically eastern red, hoary, and silver-haired bats, use this barrier island during migration and that this phenomenon may have implications for the development of near and offshore wind energy.

Disassociation between primary motor cortical activity and movement kinematics during adaptation to reach perturbations.

PubMed

Cai, X; Shimansky, Y P; Weber, D J; He, Jiping

2004-01-01

The relationship between movement kinematics and motor cortical activity was studied in monkeys performing a center-out reaching task during their adaptation to force perturbations applied to the wrist. The main feature of adaptive changes in movement kinematics was anticipatory deviation of hand paths in the direction opposite to that of the upcoming perturbation. We identified a group of neurons in the dorsal lateral portion of the primary motor cortex where a gradual buildup of spike activity immediately preceding the actual (in perturbation trials) or the "would-be" (in unperturbed/catch trials) perturbation onset was observed. These neurons were actively involved in the adaptation process, which was evident from the gradual increase in the amplitude of their movement-related modulation of spike activity from virtual zero and development of certain directional tuning pattern (DTP). However, the day-to-day dynamics of the kinematics adaptation was dramatically different from that of the neuronal activity. Hence, the adaptive modification of the motor cortical activity is more likely to reflect the development of the internal model of the perturbation dynamics, rather than motor instructions determining the adaptive behavior.

Increases in Plasma Lutein through Supplementation Are Correlated with Increases in Physical Activity and Reductions in Sedentary Time in Older Adults

PubMed Central

Thomson, Rebecca L.; Coates, Alison M.; Howe, Peter R. C.; Bryan, Janet; Matsumoto, Megumi; Buckley, Jonathan D.

2014-01-01

Cross-sectional studies have reported positive relationships between serum lutein concentrations and higher physical activity levels. The purpose of the study was to determine whether increasing plasma lutein levels increases physical activity. Forty-four older adults (BMI, 25.3 ± 2.6 kg/m2; age, 68.8 ± 6.4 year) not meeting Australian physical activity guidelines (150 min/week of moderate to vigorous activity) were randomized to consume capsules containing 21 mg of lutein or placebo with 250 mL of full-cream milk per day for 4 weeks and encouraged to increase physical activity. Physical activity was assessed by self-report, pedometry and accelerometry (daily activity counts and sedentary time). Exercise self-efficacy was assessed by questionnaire. Thirty-nine participants competed the study (Lutein = 19, Placebo = 20). Lutein increased plasma lutein concentrations compared with placebo (p < 0.001). Absolute and percentage changes in plasma lutein were inversely associated with absolute (r = −0.36, p = 0.03) and percentage changes (r = −0.39, p = 0.02) in sedentary time. Percentage change in plasma lutein was positively associated with the percentage change in average daily activity counts (r = 0.36, p = 0.03). Exercise self-efficacy did not change (p = 0.16). Lutein increased plasma lutein, which was associated with increased physical activity and reduced sedentary time in older adults. Larger trials should evaluate whether Lutein can provide health benefits over the longer term. PMID:24594505

Dengue Infection Increases the Locomotor Activity of Aedes aegypti Females

PubMed Central

Luz, Paula M.; Castro, Márcia G.; Lourenço-de-Oliveira, Ricardo; Sorgine, Marcos H. F.; Peixoto, Alexandre A.

2011-01-01

Background Aedes aegypti is the main vector of the virus causing Dengue fever, a disease that has increased dramatically in importance in recent decades, affecting many tropical and sub-tropical areas of the globe. It is known that viruses and other parasites can potentially alter vector behavior. We investigated whether infection with Dengue virus modifies the behavior of Aedes aegypti females with respect to their activity level. Methods/Principal Findings We carried out intrathoracic Dengue 2 virus (DENV-2) infections in Aedes aegypti females and recorded their locomotor activity behavior. We observed an increase of up to ∼50% in the activity of infected mosquitoes compared to the uninfected controls. Conclusions Dengue infection alters mosquito locomotor activity behavior. We speculate that the higher levels of activity observed in infected Aedes aegypti females might involve the circadian clock. Further studies are needed to assess whether this behavioral change could have implications for the dynamics of Dengue virus transmission. PMID:21408119

Stable isotope evidence for gradual environmental changes and species survivorship across the Cretaceous/Tertiary Boundary

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barrera, Enriqueta; Keller, Gerta

1990-12-01

High-resolution δ13C and δ18O records have been generated from analyses of the planktonic foraminiferal species Heterohelix globulosa and the benthonic foraminiferal taxon Lenticulina spp from 3 m of a cored section spanning the Cretaceous/Tertiary (K/T) boundary at Brazos River, Texas. These are the first stable isotope records across the K/T boundary based on monospecific and monogeneric foraminiferal samples. They show a gradual decrease in δ13C values of about 2.5 permil beginning at the K/T boundary, as defined by the first appearance of Tertiary planktonic foraminifera, and continuing 17-20 cm above the boundary, approximately 40,000 years later. Gradual 13C depletion contrasts with the sudden δ13C drop at the K/T boundary observed in many deep-sea sections. The surface-to-bottom δ13C gradient decreased to less than zero approximately 25,000-30,000 years after the K/T boundary and remained negative for at least the next 140,000 years. Concomitant with change in δ13C values is a gradual decrease of about 2.5 permil in δ18C values which has not been observed at other localities. This 18O depletion suggests changes in temperature and/or salinity in the earliest Paleocene Gulf of Mexico. No extinction of foraminiferal species is associated with the K/T boundary or the onset of 18O and 13C depletions. Instead, two phases of Cretaceous species extinctions occur. One extinction phase is below the K/T boundary and below the tsunami bed of Bourgeois et al. [1988] and may be linked to sea level regression and environmental perturbations. The second extinction phase coincides with the minimum in δ13C and δ18O values in the Early Danian (Zone P0/Pla) and appears directly related to environmental changes reflected in the isotopic record. H. globulosa, which is commonly present in Maastrichtian and Danian sediments, exhibits significantly lower 18O/16O and 13C/12C ratios in Tertiary sediments relative to specimens from Maastrichtian sediments, demonstrating the

Broadband absorption and enhanced photothermal conversion property of octopod-like Ag@Ag2S core@shell structures with gradually varying shell thickness.

PubMed

Jiang, Qian; Zeng, Wenxia; Zhang, Canying; Meng, Zhaoguo; Wu, Jiawei; Zhu, Qunzhi; Wu, Daxiong; Zhu, Haitao

2017-12-19

Photothermal conversion materials have promising applications in many fields and therefore they have attracted tremendous attention. However, the multi-functionalization of a single nanostructure to meet the requirements of multiple photothermal applications is still a challenge. The difficulty is that most nanostructures have specific absoprtion band and are not flexible to different demands. In the current work, we reported the synthesis and multi-band photothermal conversion of Ag@Ag 2 S core@shell structures with gradually varying shell thickness. We synthesized the core@shell structures through the sulfidation of Ag nanocubes by taking the advantage of their spatially different reactivity. The resulting core@shell structures show an octopod-like mopgorlogy with a Ag 2 S bulge sitting at each corner of the Ag nanocubes. The thickness of the Ag 2 S shell gradually increases from the central surface towards the corners of the structure. The synthesized core@shell structures show a broad band absorption spectrum from 300 to 1100 nm. Enhanced photothermal conversion effect is observed under the illuminations of 635, 808, and 1064 nm lasers. The results indicate that the octopod-like Ag@Ag 2 S core@shell structures have characteristics of multi-band photothermal conversion. The current work might provide a guidance for the design and synthesis of multifunctional photothermal conversion materials.

Project U-Turn: increasing active transportation in Jackson, Michigan.

PubMed

TenBrink, David S; McMunn, Randall; Panken, Sarah

2009-12-01

Jackson, Michigan, is a medium-sized city suffering from a bad economy and obesity-related health issues. Nearly 20% of the 36,000 residents live below the poverty line. It is a relatively young city (median age of 30 years) with a mixed ethnicity (20% black, 73% white, 4% Hispanic). The city offers many structured, active recreational opportunities, but has not integrated physical activity into daily life. Project U-Turn aimed to increase active transportation (e.g., biking, walking, and transit use) through an integrated approach to Active Living by Design's community action model and the Michigan Safe Routes to School model. Resources were focused on active living promotions and programs; partnership meetings were the source of changes in policy and physical projects. Each initiative was designed to introduce each of the 5Ps (preparation, promotion, programs, policy, and physical projects) to build support for the partnership's overall work. The partnership collected snapshot data of community walking and biking behavior, percentage of students walking to school, participation in events and programs, and new physical projects. Jackson saw a vast improvement in physical infrastructure and policy and a related increase in walking and biking in the community. The project engaged in purposeful partnership building to implement effective programs and promotions that built support for policy and physical projects. Limited resources were best used by encouraging partners to contribute and coordinate activities using existing staff, funding, and resources. Jackson has seen a shift toward awareness of the benefits of active living on community health, economic development, and environmental awareness.

Changes in muscle activation patterns when running step rate is increased.

PubMed

Chumanov, Elizabeth S; Wille, Christa M; Michalski, Max P; Heiderscheit, Bryan C

2012-06-01

Running with a step rate 5-10% greater than one's preferred can substantially reduce lower extremity joint moments and powers, and has been suggested as a possible strategy to aid in running injury management. The purpose of this study was to examine how neuromuscular activity changes with an increase in step rate during running. Forty-five injury-free, recreational runners participated in this study. Three-dimensional motion, ground reaction forces, and electromyography (EMG) of 8 muscles (rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, medial gastrocnemius, tibialis anterior, medial and lateral hamstrings, and gluteus medius and maximus) were recorded as each subject ran at their preferred speed for three different step rate conditions: preferred, +5% and +10% of preferred. Outcome measures included mean normalized EMG activity for each muscle at specific periods during the gait cycle. Muscle activities were found to predominantly increase during late swing, with no significant change in activities during the loading response. This increased muscle activity in anticipation of foot-ground contact likely alters the landing posture of the limb and the subsequent negative work performed by the joints during stance phase. Further, the increased activity observed in the gluteus maximus and medius suggests running with a greater step rate may have therapeutic benefits to those with anterior knee pain. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Incentive program to strengthen motivation for increasing physical activity via conjoint analysis.

PubMed

Matsushita, Munehiro; Harada, Kazuhiro; Arao, Takashi

2017-01-01

Objectives　Promoting physical activity is a key public health issue. Incentive programs have attracted attention as a technique for promoting physical activity. For the use of effective incentives, there is a need to clarify the most effective incentive program conditions for the promotion of physical activity. Therefore, the present study used the conjoint analysis to examine the effective incentive program conditions for strengthening the motivation to increase physical activity.Methods　Data on 1,998 subjects (aged 40-74) were analyzed. The main variables in this study were physical activity (IPAQ-Short Form) and the strengthening of motivation to increase physical activity. The incentive programs that were implemented, comprised four factors: 1) cash equivalents (1,000 yen, 2,000 yen, and 3,000 yen); 2) duration between increase in physical activity and receipt of the incentive (1, 2, or 3 months); 3) method to record the physical activity (recording sheet, recording website, and automatic pedometer recording); and 4) lottery (yes or no). Eleven incentive programs were created, which was the minimum number required for comparison of these factors and levels. The average importance of each of the four factors was calculated to compare their contributions to the strengthening of the motivation to increase physical activity. The utility of each level was also calculated to compare their contributions to the strengthening of motivation. All statistics were stratified by age (≤65 years and 65+ years) and physical activity (<150 min/week, 150+ min/week) for additional analysis.Results　Cash incentives and the lottery ranked equally on average importance, followed by duration and recording methods. Utility was higher for each factor, as follows: 1) more valuable cash incentives, 2) shorter duration, 3) automatic pedometer recording, and 4) no lottery. There was no notable difference in the average importance and utility of age and physical activity

The Effects of Teaching Reading Using the Gradual Release of Responsibility Model and 4th Grade Reading

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Young, Marthel I.

2017-01-01

Students' inability to meet grade level standards in reading on state and national assessments continues to be a problem across the nation. This causal comparative cohort model sought to examine the effect of the Gradual Release of Responsibility Model (GRRM) on 4th grade reading achievement, gender, and socio-economic status, and to examine…

Stereotypic wheel running decreases cortical activity in mice

PubMed Central

Fisher, Simon P.; Cui, Nanyi; McKillop, Laura E.; Gemignani, Jessica; Bannerman, David M.; Oliver, Peter L.; Peirson, Stuart N.; Vyazovskiy, Vladyslav V.

2016-01-01

Prolonged wakefulness is thought to gradually increase ‘sleep need' and influence subsequent sleep duration and intensity, but the role of specific waking behaviours remains unclear. Here we report the effect of voluntary wheel running during wakefulness on neuronal activity in the motor and somatosensory cortex in mice. We find that stereotypic wheel running is associated with a substantial reduction in firing rates among a large subpopulation of cortical neurons, especially at high speeds. Wheel running also has longer-term effects on spiking activity across periods of wakefulness. Specifically, cortical firing rates are significantly higher towards the end of a spontaneous prolonged waking period. However, this increase is abolished when wakefulness is dominated by running wheel activity. These findings indicate that wake-related changes in firing rates are determined not only by wake duration, but also by specific waking behaviours. PMID:27748455

Adolescent activity-based anorexia increases anxiety-like behavior in adulthood.

PubMed

Kinzig, Kimberly P; Hargrave, Sara L

2010-09-01

Activity-based anorexia is a paradigm that induces increased physical activity, reduced food intake, and heightened activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in adult rats. To investigate whether experience with activity-based anorexia produced enduring effects on brain and behavior, female adolescent rats experienced activity-based anorexia during adolescence and were tested in adulthood for anxiety-like behavior on an elevated plus maze and in an open field. Analysis of elevated plus maze and open field behavior in adulthood revealed that rats that experienced activity-based anorexia during adolescence, but not rats that were simply food restricted, displayed increased anxiety-like behavior in adulthood. Plasma corticosterone and expression levels of corticotropin-releasing hormone mRNA in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus and in the central nucleus of the amygdala were significantly elevated in adult rats that had undergone activity-based anorexia in adolescence in response to the open field exposure, as compared to control rats. These data demonstrate enduring effects of adolescent activity-based anorexia on anxiety-like behavior and neuroendocrine factors critical in stress responsivity in adulthood. Furthermore, we demonstrate that activity-based anorexia during adolescence serves as a model whereby prolonged anxiety is induced, allowing for evaluation of the behavioral and neural correlates of mediating anxiety-like behaviors in adulthood. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Increased matriptase zymogen activation in inflammatory skin disorders

PubMed Central

Chen, Cheng-Jueng; Wu, Bai-Yao; Tsao, Pai-In; Chen, Chi-Yung; Wu, Mei-Hsuan; Chan, Yee Lam E.; Lee, Herng-Sheng; Johnson, Michael D.; Eckert, Richard L.; Chen, Ya-Wen; Chou, Fengpai; Lin, Chen-Yong

2011-01-01

Matriptase, a type 2 transmembrane serine protease, and its inhibitor hepatocyte growth factor activator inhibitor (HAI)-1 are required for normal epidermal barrier function, and matriptase activity is tightly regulated during this process. We therefore hypothesized that this protease system might be deregulated in skin disease. To test this, we examined the level and activation state of matriptase in examples of 23 human skin disorders. We first examined matriptase and HAI-1 protein distribution in normal epidermis. Matriptase was detected at high levels at cell-cell junctions in the basal layer and spinous layers but was present at minimal levels in the granular layer. HAI-1 was distributed in a similar pattern, except that high-level expression was retained in the granular layer. This pattern of expression was retained in most skin disorders. We next examined the distribution of activated matriptase. Although activated matriptase is not detected in normal epidermis, a dramatic increase is seen in keratinocytes at the site of inflammation in 16 different skin diseases. To gain further evidence that activation is associated with inflammatory stimuli, we challenged HaCaT cells with acidic pH or H2O2 and observed matriptase activation. These findings suggest that inflammation-associated reactive oxygen species and tissue acidity may enhance matriptase activation in some skin diseases. PMID:21123732

Ozone synthesis improves by increasing number density of plasma channels and lower voltage in a nonthermal plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arif Malik, Muhammad; Hughes, David

2016-04-01

Improvements in ozone synthesis from air and oxygen by increasing the number density of plasma channels and lower voltage for the same specific input energy (SIE) were explored in a nonthermal plasma based on a sliding discharge. The number of plasma channels and energy per pulse increased in direct proportion to the increase in the effective length of the anode (the high voltage electrode). Decreasing the discharge gap increased the energy per pulse for the same length and allowed the installation of more electrode pairs in the same space. It allowed the increase of the number of plasma channels in the same space to achieve the same SIE at a lower peak voltage with less energy per plasma channel. The ozone concentration gradually increased to ~1500 ppmv (140 to 50 g kWh-1) from air and to ~6000 ppmv (400 to 200 g kWh-1) from oxygen with a gradual increase in the SIE to ~200 J L-1, irrespective of the variations in electrode geometry, applied voltage or flow rate of the feed gas. A gradual increase in SIE beyond 200 J L-1 gradually increased the ozone concentration to a certain maximum value followed by a decline, but the rate of increase and the maximum value was higher for the greater number of plasma channels and lower peak voltage combination. The maximum ozone concentration was ~5000 ppmv (~30 g kWh-1) from air and ~22 000 ppmv (~80 g kWh-1) from oxygen. The results are explained on the basis of characteristics of the plasma and ozone synthesis mechanism.

Playground Designs to Increase Physical Activity Levels during School Recess: A Systematic Review

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Escalante, Yolanda; García-Hermoso, Antonio; Backx, Karianne; Saavedra, Jose M.

2014-01-01

School recess provides a major opportunity to increase children's physical activity levels. Various studies have described strategies to increase levels of physical activity. The purpose of this systematic review is therefore to examine the interventions proposed as forms of increasing children's physical activity levels during recess. A…

Centennial increase in geomagnetic activity: Latitudinal differences and global estimates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mursula, K.; Martini, D.

2006-08-01

We study here the centennial change in geomagnetic activity using the newly proposed Inter-Hour Variability (IHV) index. We correct the earlier estimates of the centennial increase by taking into account the effect of the change of the sampling of the magnetic field from one sample per hour to hourly means in the first years of the previous century. Since the IHV index is a variability index, the larger variability in the case of hourly sampling leads, without due correction, to excessively large values in the beginning of the century and an underestimated centennial increase. We discuss two ways to extract the necessary sampling calibration factors and show that they agree very well with each other. The effect of calibration is especially large at the midlatitude Cheltenham/Fredricksburg (CLH/FRD) station where the centennial increase changes from only 6% to 24% caused by calibration. Sampling calibration also leads to a larger centennial increase of global geomagnetic activity based on the IHV index. The results verify a significant centennial increase in global geomagnetic activity, in a qualitative agreement with the aa index, although a quantitative comparison is not warranted. We also find that the centennial increase has a rather strong and curious latitudinal dependence. It is largest at high latitudes. Quite unexpectedly, it is larger at low latitudes than at midlatitudes. These new findings indicate interesting long-term changes in near-Earth space. We also discuss possible internal and external causes for these observed differences. The centennial change of geomagnetic activity may be partly affected by changes in external conditions, partly by the secular decrease of the Earth's magnetic moment whose effect in near-Earth space may be larger than estimated so far.

Gradual increase in the risk of match injury in Norwegian male professional football: a 6-year prospective study.

PubMed

Bjørneboe, J; Bahr, R; Andersen, T E

2014-02-01

The aim of this study was to monitor injury incidence and pattern in Norwegian male professional football over six consecutive seasons and compare the risk of injury between the preseason and competitive season. All time loss injuries were recorded by the medical staff of each club. In total, 2365 injuries were recorded. The incidence of acute injuries was 15.9/1000 match hours [95% confidence interval (CI): 14.9-16.8], 1.9/1000 training hours (95% CI: 1.7-2.0), and 1.4 (95% CI: 1.3-1.5) overuse injuries/1000 h. A linear regression model found an annual increase of 1.06 acute match injuries/1000 h (95% CI: 0.40-1.73), corresponding to a total increase of 49% during the 6-year study period. When accounting for interteam variation and clustering effects using a general estimating equation model, the increase in injury incidence was 0.92 (95% CI: -0.11-1.95, P = 0.083). No difference in the risk of acute match injuries (rate ratio (RR): 0.86, 95% CI: 0.73-1.01), acute training injuries (RR: 1.16, 95% CI: 0.99-1.36), or overuse injuries (RR: 1.04, 95% CI: 0.89-1.21) was observed between the preseason and competitive season. In conclusion, the overall risk of acute match injuries in Norwegian male professional football increased by 49% during the study period, although this increase was not fully consistent across teams. We detected no change in the risk of training and overuse injuries or any difference between the preseason and competitive season. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Changes in Biochemical Characteristics and Activities of Ripening Associated Enzymes in Mango Fruit during the Storage at Different Temperatures

PubMed Central

Kimura, Yoshinobu

2014-01-01

As a part of the study to explore the possible strategy for enhancing the shelf life of mango fruits, we investigated the changes in biochemical parameters and activities of ripening associated enzymes of Ashwina hybrid mangoes at 4-day regular intervals during storage at −10°C, 4°C, and 30 ± 1°C. Titratable acidity, vitamin C, starch content, and reducing sugar were higher at unripe state and gradually decreased with the increasing of storage time at all storage temperatures while phenol content, total soluble solid, total sugar, and nonreducing sugar contents gradually increased. The activities of amylase, α-mannosidase, α-glucosidase, and invertase increased sharply within first few days and decreased significantly in the later stage of ripening at 30 ± 1°C. Meanwhile polyphenol oxidase, β-galactosidase, and β-hexosaminidase predominantly increased significantly with the increasing days of storage till later stage of ripening. At −10°C and 4°C, the enzymes as well as carbohydrate contents of storage mango changed slightly up to 4 days and thereafter the enzyme became fully dormant. The results indicated that increase in storage temperature and time correlated with changes in biochemical parameters and activities of glycosidases suggested the suppression of β-galactosidase and β-hexosaminidase might enhance the shelf life of mango fruits. PMID:25136564

Interpreting the effect of increasing COD loading rates on the performance of a pre-anoxic MBBR system: implications on the attached and suspended biomass dynamics and nitrification-denitrification activity.

PubMed

Lima, P S; Dezotti, M; Bassin, J P

2016-06-01

A pre-anoxic MBBR system was subjected to increasing organic loading rates up to 18 gCOD/(m(2) day). At 3 gCOD/(m(2) day), most of the incoming organic matter was removed via denitrification. However, at higher loads, anoxic COD removal became limited by the nitrite/nitrate supply from the aerobic reactor, which assumed an important role in this conversion. Despite the application of low dissolved oxygen (DO) levels (<2 mg/L) in this tank, nitrification was observed to be nearly complete until 8 gCOD/(m(2) day). As the organic input was increased, the maximum specific nitrifying activity gradually declined. Activity tests suggested that an oxygen-limited environment was established in the biofilm. At lower loads [3-8 gCOD/(m(2) day)], the nitrification product obtained was affected by the DO concentration, whereas from 16 to 21 gCOD/(m(2) day), nitrite/nitrate profiles were likely associated with microbial stratification in the biofilm. The results also indicated that the role of the suspended biomass in the overall nitrification and denitrification can be very significant in high loaded MBBRs and should not be neglected, even at low HRTs.

Hydralazine administration activates sympathetic preganglionic neurons whose activity mobilizes glucose and increases cardiovascular function.

PubMed

Parker, Lindsay M; Damanhuri, Hanafi A; Fletcher, Sophie P S; Goodchild, Ann K

2015-04-16

Hypotensive drugs have been used to identify central neurons that mediate compensatory baroreceptor reflex responses. Such drugs also increase blood glucose. Our aim was to identify the neurochemical phenotypes of sympathetic preganglionic neurons (SPN) and adrenal chromaffin cells activated following hydralazine (HDZ; 10mg/kg) administration in rats, and utilize this and SPN target organ destination to ascribe their function as cardiovascular or glucose regulating. Blood glucose was measured and adrenal chromaffin cell activation was assessed using c-Fos immunoreactivity (-ir) and phosphorylation of tyrosine hydroxylase, respectively. The activation and neurochemical phenotype of SPN innervating the adrenal glands and celiac ganglia were determined using the retrograde tracer cholera toxin B subunit, in combination with in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. Blood glucose was elevated at multiple time points following HDZ administration but little evidence of chromaffin cell activation was seen suggesting non-adrenal mechanisms contribute to the sustained hyperglycemia. 16±0.1% of T4-T11 SPN contained c-Fos and of these: 24.3±1.4% projected to adrenal glands and 29±5.5% projected to celiac ganglia with the rest innervating other targets. 62.8±1.4% of SPN innervating adrenal glands were activated and 29.9±3.3% expressed PPE mRNA whereas 53.2±8.6% of SPN innervating celiac ganglia were activated and 31.2±8.8% expressed PPE mRNA. CART-ir SPN innervating each target were also activated and did not co-express PPE mRNA. Neurochemical coding reveals that HDZ administration activates both PPE+SPN, whose activity increase glucose mobilization causing hyperglycemia, as well as CART+SPN whose activity drive vasomotor responses mediated by baroreceptor unloading to raise vascular tone and heart rate. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Games for increasing physical activity: Mechanisms for change

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A small conference was held in Houston, TX, in May 2014, to address how to enhance exergames to increase physical activity. Several leading researchers were asked to address specific topics. Attendees came from across the globe. This Games for Health Journal Special Issue is devoted to sharing the a...

Trunk muscle activity increases with unstable squat movements.

PubMed

Anderson, Kenneth; Behm, David G

2005-02-01

The objective of this study was to determine differences in electromyographic (EMG) activity of the soleus (SOL), vastus lateralis (VL), biceps femoris (BF), abdominal stabilizers (AS), upper lumbar erector spinae (ULES), and lumbo-sacral erector spinae (LSES) muscles while performing squats of varied stability and resistance. Stability was altered by doing the squat movement on a Smith machine, a free squat, and while standing on two balance discs. Fourteen male subjects performed the movements. Activities of the SOL, AS, ULES, and LSES were highest during the unstable squat and lowest with the Smith machine protocol (p < 0.05). Increased EMG activity of these muscles may be attributed to their postural and stabilization role. Furthermore, EMG activity was higher during concentric contractions compared to eccentric contractions. Performing squats on unstable surfaces may permit a training adaptation of the trunk muscles responsible for supporting the spinal column (i.e., erector spinae) as well as the muscles most responsible for maintaining posture (i.e., SOL).

Social reinforcement can regulate localized brain activity.

PubMed

Mathiak, Krystyna A; Koush, Yury; Dyck, Miriam; Gaber, Tilman J; Alawi, Eliza; Zepf, Florian D; Zvyagintsev, Mikhail; Mathiak, Klaus

2010-11-01

Social learning is essential for adaptive behavior in humans. Neurofeedback based on functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) trains control over localized brain activity. It can disentangle learning processes at the neural level and thus investigate the mechanisms of operant conditioning with explicit social reinforcers. In a pilot study, a computer-generated face provided a positive feedback (smiling) when activity in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) increased and gradually returned to a neutral expression when the activity dropped. One female volunteer without previous experience in fMRI underwent training based on a social reinforcer. Directly before and after the neurofeedback runs, neural responses to a cognitive interference task (Simon task) were recorded. We observed a significant increase in activity within ACC during the neurofeedback blocks, correspondent with the a-priori defined anatomical region of interest. In the course of the neurofeedback training, the subject learned to regulate ACC activity and could maintain the control even without direct feedback. Moreover, ACC was activated significantly stronger during Simon task after the neurofeedback training when compared to before. Localized brain activity can be controlled by social reward. The increased ACC activity transferred to a cognitive task with the potential to reduce cognitive interference. Systematic studies are required to explore long-term effects on social behavior and clinical applications.

The Effect of Increasing Autonomy Through Choice on Young Children's Physical Activity Behavior.

PubMed

Sanders, Gabriel J; Juvancic-Heltzel, Judith; Williamson, Megan L; Roemmich, James N; Feda, Denise M; Barkley, Jacob E

2016-04-01

Increasing autonomy by manipulating the choice of available physical activity options in a laboratory setting can increase physical activity in older children and adults. However, the effect of manipulating the number of physically active choices has yet to be examined in young children in a gymnasium environment. Twenty children (n = 10 girls, 6.1 ± 1.4 years old) individually participated in 2 [low choice (LC), high choice (HC)] free-choice activity conditions for 30 minutes in a 4360 square foot gymnasium. Children had access to 2 or 8 physical activity options in the LC and HC conditions, respectively. Physical activity behavior was measured via accelerometry. Children's 30-minute accelerometer counts increased (P < .03) from the LC (2675 ± 294 counts·min-1) to the HC (3224 ± 280 counts·min-1) condition. Providing greater autonomy through choice of a greater number of physically active options increased young children's physical activity participation by 20.5%.

Gradual surface degradation of restorative materials by acidic agents.

PubMed

Hengtrakool, Chanothai; Kukiattrakoon, Boonlert; Kedjarune-Leggat, Ureporn

2011-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of acidic agents on surface roughness and characteristics of four restorative materials. Fifty-two discs were created from each restorative material: metal-reinforced glass ionomer cement (Ketac-S), resin-modified glass ionomer cement (Fuji II LC), resin composite (Filtek Z250), and amalgam (Valiant-PhD); each disc was 12 mm in diameter and 2.5 mm thick. The specimens were divided into four subgroups (n=13) and immersed for 168 hours in four storage media: deionized water (control); citrate buffer solution; green mango juice; and pineapple juice. Surface roughness measurements were performed with a profilometer, both before and after storage media immersion. Surface characteristics were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Statistical significance among each group was analyzed using two-way repeated ANOVA and Tukey's tests. Ketac-S demonstrated the highest roughness changes after immersion in acidic agents (p<0.05), followed by Fuji II LC. Valiant-PhD and Filtek Z250 illustrated some minor changes over 168 hours. The mango juice produced the greatest degradation effect of all materials tested (p<0.05). SEM photographs demonstrated gradual surface changes of all materials tested after immersions. Of the materials evaluated, amalgam and resin composite may be the most suitable for restorations for patients with tooth surface loss.

Chronic baroreflex activation restores spontaneous baroreflex control and variability of heart rate in obesity-induced hypertension

PubMed Central

Iliescu, Radu; Tudorancea, Ionut; Irwin, Eric D.

2013-01-01

The sensitivity of baroreflex control of heart rate is depressed in subjects with obesity hypertension, which increases the risk for cardiac arrhythmias. The mechanisms are not fully known, and there are no therapies to improve this dysfunction. To determine the cardiovascular dynamic effects of progressive increases in body weight leading to obesity and hypertension in dogs fed a high-fat diet, 24-h continuous recordings of spontaneous fluctuations in blood pressure and heart rate were analyzed in the time and frequency domains. Furthermore, we investigated whether autonomic mechanisms stimulated by chronic baroreflex activation and renal denervation—current therapies in patients with resistant hypertension, who are commonly obese—restore cardiovascular dynamic control. Increases in body weight to ∼150% of control led to a gradual increase in mean arterial pressure to 17 ± 3 mmHg above control (100 ± 2 mmHg) after 4 wk on the high-fat diet. In contrast to the gradual increase in arterial pressure, tachycardia, attenuated chronotropic baroreflex responses, and reduced heart rate variability were manifest within 1–4 days on high-fat intake, reaching 130 ± 4 beats per minute (bpm) (control = 86 ± 3 bpm) and ∼45% and <20%, respectively, of control levels. Subsequently, both baroreflex activation and renal denervation abolished the hypertension. However, only baroreflex activation effectively attenuated the tachycardia and restored cardiac baroreflex sensitivity and heart rate variability. These findings suggest that baroreflex activation therapy may reduce the risk factors for cardiac arrhythmias as well as lower arterial pressure. PMID:23913707

Increased activation in Broca's area after cognitive remediation in schizophrenia.

PubMed

Vianin, Pascal; Urben, Sébastien; Magistretti, Pierre; Marquet, Pierre; Fornari, Eleonora; Jaugey, Laure

2014-03-30

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to measure changes in cerebral activity in patients with schizophrenia after participation in the Cognitive Remediation Program for Schizophrenia and other related disorders (RECOS). As RECOS therapists make use of problem-solving and verbal mediation techniques, known to be beneficial in the rehabilitation of dysexecutive syndromes, we expected an increased activation of frontal areas after remediation. Executive functioning and cerebral activation during a covert verbal fluency task were measured in eight patients with schizophrenia before (T1) and after (T2) 14 weeks of RECOS therapy. The same measures were recorded in eight patients with schizophrenia who did not participate in RECOS at the same intervals of time (TAU group). Increased activation in Broca's area, as well as improvements in performance of executive/frontal tasks, was observed after cognitive training. Metacognitive techniques of verbalization are hypothesized to be the main factor underlying the brain changes observed in the present study. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Construction of Mutant Glucose Oxidases with Increased Dye-Mediated Dehydrogenase Activity

PubMed Central

Horaguchi, Yohei; Saito, Shoko; Kojima, Katsuhiro; Tsugawa, Wakako; Ferri, Stefano; Sode, Koji

2012-01-01

Mutagenesis studies on glucose oxidases (GOxs) were conducted to construct GOxs with reduced oxidase activity and increased dehydrogenase activity. We focused on two representative GOxs, of which crystal structures have already been reported—Penicillium amagasakiense GOx (PDB ID; 1gpe) and Aspergillus niger GOx (PDB ID; 1cf3). We constructed oxygen-interacting structural models for GOxs, and predicted the residues responsible for oxidative half reaction with oxygen on the basis of the crystal structure of cholesterol oxidase as well as on the fact that both enzymes are members of the glucose/methanol/choline (GMC) oxidoreductase family. Rational amino acid substitution resulted in the construction of an engineered GOx with drastically decreased oxidase activity and increased dehydrogenase activity, which was higher than that of the wild-type enzyme. As a result, the dehydrogenase/oxidase ratio of the engineered enzyme was more than 11-fold greater than that of the wild-type enzyme. These results indicate that alteration of the dehydrogenase/oxidase activity ratio of GOxs is possible by introducing a mutation into the putative functional residues responsible for oxidative half reaction with oxygen of these enzymes, resulting in a further increased dehydrogenase activity. This is the first study reporting the alteration of GOx electron acceptor preference from oxygen to an artificial electron acceptor. PMID:23203056

Interactions Increase Forager Availability and Activity in Harvester Ants.

PubMed

Pless, Evlyn; Queirolo, Jovel; Pinter-Wollman, Noa; Crow, Sam; Allen, Kelsey; Mathur, Maya B; Gordon, Deborah M

2015-01-01

Social insect colonies use interactions among workers to regulate collective behavior. Harvester ant foragers interact in a chamber just inside the nest entrance, here called the 'entrance chamber'. Previous studies of the activation of foragers in red harvester ants show that an outgoing forager inside the nest experiences an increase in brief antennal contacts before it leaves the nest to forage. Here we compare the interaction rate experienced by foragers that left the nest and ants that did not. We found that ants in the entrance chamber that leave the nest to forage experienced more interactions than ants that descend to the deeper nest without foraging. Additionally, we found that the availability of foragers in the entrance chamber is associated with the rate of forager return. An increase in the rate of forager return leads to an increase in the rate at which ants descend to the deeper nest, which then stimulates more ants to ascend into the entrance chamber. Thus a higher rate of forager return leads to more available foragers in the entrance chamber. The highest density of interactions occurs near the nest entrance and the entrances of the tunnels from the entrance chamber to the deeper nest. Local interactions with returning foragers regulate both the activation of waiting foragers and the number of foragers available to be activated.

Interactions Increase Forager Availability and Activity in Harvester Ants

PubMed Central

Pinter-Wollman, Noa; Crow, Sam; Allen, Kelsey; Mathur, Maya B.; Gordon, Deborah M.

2015-01-01

Social insect colonies use interactions among workers to regulate collective behavior. Harvester ant foragers interact in a chamber just inside the nest entrance, here called the 'entrance chamber'. Previous studies of the activation of foragers in red harvester ants show that an outgoing forager inside the nest experiences an increase in brief antennal contacts before it leaves the nest to forage. Here we compare the interaction rate experienced by foragers that left the nest and ants that did not. We found that ants in the entrance chamber that leave the nest to forage experienced more interactions than ants that descend to the deeper nest without foraging. Additionally, we found that the availability of foragers in the entrance chamber is associated with the rate of forager return. An increase in the rate of forager return leads to an increase in the rate at which ants descend to the deeper nest, which then stimulates more ants to ascend into the entrance chamber. Thus a higher rate of forager return leads to more available foragers in the entrance chamber. The highest density of interactions occurs near the nest entrance and the entrances of the tunnels from the entrance chamber to the deeper nest. Local interactions with returning foragers regulate both the activation of waiting foragers and the number of foragers available to be activated. PMID:26539724

Peripheral Sensitization Increases Opioid Receptor Expression and Activation by Crotalphine in Rats

PubMed Central

Zambelli, Vanessa Olzon; Fernandes, Ana Carolina de Oliveira; Gutierrez, Vanessa Pacciari; Ferreira, Julio Cesar Batista; Parada, Carlos Amilcar; Mochly-Rosen, Daria; Cury, Yara

2014-01-01

Inflammation enhances the peripheral analgesic efficacy of opioid drugs, but the mechanisms involved in this phenomenon have not been fully elucidated. Crotalphine (CRP), a peptide that was first isolated from South American rattlesnake C.d. terrificus venom, induces a potent and long-lasting anti-nociceptive effect that is mediated by the activation of peripheral opioid receptors. Because the high efficacy of CRP is only observed in the presence of inflammation, we aimed to elucidate the mechanisms involved in the CRP anti-nociceptive effect induced by inflammation. Using real-time RT-PCR, western blot analysis and ELISA assays, we demonstrate that the intraplantar injection of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) increases the mRNA and protein levels of the µ- and κ-opioid receptors in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and paw tissue of rats within 3 h of the injection. Using conformation state-sensitive antibodies that recognize activated opioid receptors, we show that PGE2, alone does not increase the activation of these opioid receptors but that in the presence of PGE2, the activation of specific opioid receptors by CRP and selective µ- and κ-opioid receptor agonists (positive controls) increases. Furthermore, PGE2 down-regulated the expression and activation of the δ-opioid receptor. CRP increased the level of activated mitogen-activated protein kinases in cultured DRG neurons, and this increase was dependent on the activation of protein kinase Cζ. This CRP effect was much more prominent when the cells were pretreated with PGE2. These results indicate that the expression and activation of peripheral opioid receptors by opioid-like drugs can be up- or down-regulated in the presence of an acute injury and that acute tissue injury enhances the efficacy of peripheral opioids. PMID:24594607

Comparative Effectiveness of After-School Programs to Increase Physical Activity

PubMed Central

Gesell, Sabina B.; Sommer, Evan C.; Lambert, E. Warren; Vides de Andrade, Ana Regina; Davis, Lauren; Beech, Bettina M.; Mitchell, Stephanie J.; Neloms, Stevon; Ryan, Colleen K.

2013-01-01

Background. We conducted a comparative effectiveness analysis to evaluate the difference in the amount of physical activity children engaged in when enrolled in a physical activity-enhanced after-school program based in a community recreation center versus a standard school-based after-school program. Methods. The study was a natural experiment with 54 elementary school children attending the community ASP and 37 attending the school-based ASP. Accelerometry was used to measure physical activity. Data were collected at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks, with 91% retention. Results. At baseline, 43% of the multiethnic sample was overweight/obese, and the mean age was 7.9 years (SD = 1.7). Linear latent growth models suggested that the average difference between the two groups of children at Week 12 was 14.7 percentage points in moderate-vigorous physical activity (P < .001). Cost analysis suggested that children attending traditional school-based ASPs—at an average cost of $17.67 per day—would need an additional daily investment of $1.59 per child for 12 weeks to increase their moderate-vigorous physical activity by a model-implied 14.7 percentage points. Conclusions. A low-cost, alternative after-school program featuring adult-led physical activities in a community recreation center was associated with increased physical activity compared to standard-of-care school-based after-school program. PMID:23984052

Physical activity increases survival after heart valve surgery.

PubMed

Lund, K; Sibilitz, K L; Berg, S K; Thygesen, L C; Taylor, R S; Zwisler, A D

2016-09-01

Increased physical activity predicts survival and reduces risk of readmission in patients with coronary heart disease. However, few data show how physical activity is associated with survival and readmission after heart valve surgery. Objective were to assess the association between physical activity levels 6-12 months after heart valve surgery and (1) survival, (2) hospital readmission 18-24 months after surgery and (3) participation in exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation. Prospective cohort study with registry data from The CopenHeart survey, The Danish National Patient Register and The Danish Civil Registration System of 742 eligible patients. Physical activity was quantified with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and analysed using Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression and logistic regression methods. Patients with a moderate to high physical activity level had a reduced risk of mortality (3 deaths in 289 patients, 1%) compared with those with a low physical activity level (13 deaths in 235 patients, 5.5%) with a fully adjusted HR of 0.19 (95% CI 0.05 to 0.70). In contrast, physical activity level was not associated with the risk of hospital readmission. Patients who participated in exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (n=297) were more likely than the non-participants (n=200) to have a moderate or high physical activity level than a low physical activity level (fully adjusted OR: 1.52, 95% CI 1.03 to 2.24). Moderate to high levels of physical activity after heart valve surgery are positively associated with higher survival rates and participation in cardiac rehabilitation. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

A single administration of methamphetamine to mice early in the light period decreases running wheel activity observed during the dark period

PubMed Central

Kitanaka, Nobue; Kitanaka, Junichi; Hall, F. Scott; Uhl, George R.; Watabe, Kaname; Kubo, Hitoshi; Takahashi, Hitoshi; Tatsuta, Tomohiro; Morita, Yoshio; Takemura, Motohiko

2014-01-01

Repeated intermittent administration of amphetamines acutely increases appetitive and consummatory aspects of motivated behaviors as well as general activity and exploratory behavior, including voluntary running wheel activity. Subsequently, if the drug is withdrawn, the frequency of these behaviors decrease, which is thought to be indicative of dysphoric symptoms associated with amphetamine withdrawal. Such decreases may be observed after chronic treatment or even after single drug administrations. In the present study, the effect of acute methamphetamine (METH) on running wheel activity, horizontal locomotion, appetitive behavior (food access), and consummatory behavior (food and water intake) was investigated in mice. A multi-configuration behavior apparatus designed to monitor the five behaviors was developed, where combined measures were recorded simultaneously. In the first experiment, naïve male ICR mice showed gradually increasing running wheel activity over three consecutive days after exposure to a running wheel, while mice without a running wheel showed gradually decreasing horizontal locomotion, consistent with running wheel activity being a positively motivated form of natural motor activity. In experiment 2, increased horizontal locomotion and food access, and decreased food intake, were observed for the initial 3 h after acute METH challenge. Subsequently, during the dark phase period decreased running wheel activity and horizontal locomotion were observed. The reductions in running wheel activity and horizontal locomotion may be indicative of reduced dopaminergic function, although it remains to be seen if these changes may be more pronounced after more prolonged METH treatments. PMID:22079320

Prolonged seizure activity leads to increased Protein Kinase A activation in the rat pilocarpine model of status epilepticus.

PubMed

Bracey, James M; Kurz, Jonathan E; Low, Brian; Churn, Severn B

2009-08-04

Status epilepticus is a life-threatening form of seizure activity that represents a major medical emergency associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Protein Kinase A is an important regulator of synaptic strength that may play an important role in the development of status epilepticus-induced neuronal pathology. This study demonstrated an increase in PKA activity against exogenous and endogenous substrates during later stages of SE. As SE progressed, a significant increase in PKA-mediated phosphorylation of an exogenous peptide substrate was demonstrated in cortical structures. The increased activity was not due to altered expression of either regulatory or catalytic subunits of the enzyme. Through the use of phospho-specific antibodies, this study also investigated the effects of SE on the phosphorylation of the GluR1 subunit of the AMPA subtype of glutamate receptor. After the onset of continuous seizure activity, an increase in phosphorylation of the PKA site on the GluR1 subunit of the AMPA receptor was observed. These data suggest a potential mechanism by which SE may increase neuronal excitability in the cortex, potentially leading to maintenance of seizure activity or long-term neuronal pathology.

Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 4 Activation-Induced Increase in Glycine-Activated Current in Mouse Hippocampal Pyramidal Neurons.

PubMed

Qi, Mengwen; Wu, Chunfeng; Wang, Zhouqing; Zhou, Li; Men, Chen; Du, Yimei; Huang, Songming; Chen, Lei; Chen, Ling

2018-01-01

Glycine plays an important role in regulating hippocampal inhibitory/ excitatory neurotransmission through activating glycine receptors (GlyRs) and acting as a co-agonist of N-methyl-d-aspartate-type glutamate receptors. Activation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) is reported to inhibit hippocampal A-type γ-aminobutyric acid receptor, a ligand-gated chloride ion channel. GlyRs are also ligand-gated chloride ion channels and this paper aimed to explore whether activation of TRPV4 could modulate GlyRs. Whole-cell patch clamp recording was employed to record glycine-activated current (IGly) and Western blot was conducted to assess GlyRs subunits protein expression. Application of TRPV4 agonist (GSK1016790A or 5,6-EET) increased IGly in mouse hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons. This action was blocked by specific antagonists of TRPV4 (RN-1734 or HC-067047) and GlyR (strychnine), indicating that activation of TRPV4 increases strychnine-sensitive GlyR function in mouse hippocampal pyramidal neurons. GSK1016790A-induced increase in IGly was significantly attenuated by protein kinase C (PKC) (BIM II or D-sphingosine) or calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) (KN-62 or KN-93) antagonists but was unaffected by protein kinase A or protein tyrosine kinase antagonists. Finally, hippocampal protein levels of GlyR α1 α2, α3 and β subunits were not changed by treatment with GSK1016790A for 30 min or 1 h, but GlyR α2, α3 and β subunits protein levels increased in mice that were intracerebroventricularly (icv.) injected with GSK1016790A for 5 d. Activation of TRPV4 increases GlyR function and expression, and PKC and CaMKII signaling pathways are involved in TRPV4 activation-induced increase in IGly. This study indicates that GlyRs may be effective targets for TRPV4-induced modulation of hippocampal inhibitory neurotransmission. © 2018 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.

Promising School-Based Strategies and Intervention Guidelines to Increase Physical Activity of Adolescents

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pardo, Berta Murillo; Bengoechea, Enrique Garcia; Lanaspa, Eduardo Generelo; Bush, Paula L.; Casterad, Javier Zaragoza; Clemente, Jose A. Julian; Gonzalez, Luis Garcia

2013-01-01

This narrative review describes the available scientific evidence regarding promising school-based strategies to increase physical activity of adolescents. We conducted a literature search for studies published up to 2011, regarding adolescent physical activity intervention studies that resulted in increased physical activity (regardless of…

Building a better mousetrap (exergame) to increase youth physical activity

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

While exergames have been demonstrated to induce moderate levels of physical activity (PA) if played as designed, there is conflicting evidence on use of exergaming leading to increased habitual PA. Exergames have increased PA in some home and school studies, but not others. Exergames have been us...

Increasing physical activity with mobile devices: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Fanning, Jason; Mullen, Sean P; McAuley, Edward

2012-11-21

Regular physical activity has established physical and mental health benefits; however, merely one quarter of the U.S. adult population meets national physical activity recommendations. In an effort to engage individuals who do not meet these guidelines, researchers have utilized popular emerging technologies, including mobile devices (ie, personal digital assistants [PDAs], mobile phones). This study is the first to synthesize current research focused on the use of mobile devices for increasing physical activity. To conduct a meta-analysis of research utilizing mobile devices to influence physical activity behavior. The aims of this review were to: (1) examine the efficacy of mobile devices in the physical activity setting, (2) explore and discuss implementation of device features across studies, and (3) make recommendations for future intervention development. We searched electronic databases (PubMed, PsychINFO, SCOPUS) and identified publications through reference lists and requests to experts in the field of mobile health. Studies were included that provided original data and aimed to influence physical activity through dissemination or collection of intervention materials with a mobile device. Data were extracted to calculate effect sizes for individual studies, as were study descriptives. A random effects meta-analysis was conducted using the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software suite. Study quality was assessed using the quality of execution portion of the Guide to Community Preventative Services data extraction form. Four studies were of "good" quality and seven of "fair" quality. In total, 1351 individuals participated in 11 unique studies from which 18 effects were extracted and synthesized, yielding an overall weight mean effect size of g = 0.54 (95% CI = 0.17 to 0.91, P = .01). Research utilizing mobile devices is gaining in popularity, and this study suggests that this platform is an effective means for influencing physical activity behavior. Our focus

MK-801 increases locomotor activity in a context-dependent manner in zebrafish.

PubMed

Tran, Steven; Muraleetharan, Arrujyan; Fulcher, Niveen; Chatterjee, Diptendu; Gerlai, Robert

2016-01-01

Zebrafish have become a popular animal model for behavioral neuroscience with an increasing number of studies examining the effects of pharmacological compounds targeting the brain. Exposure to MK-801, a non-competitive N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonist has been shown to increase locomotor activity in zebrafish. However, others have failed to replicate this finding as several contradicting studies report no changes in locomotor activity following exposure to similar doses. In the current study we reconcile these behavioral reports by demonstrating that zebrafish do not exhibit changes in locomotor activity during exposure to non-sedative doses of MK-801. Interestingly, zebrafish do exhibit significant increases in locomotion if pre-treated with MK-801 followed by subsequent testing in a novel environment, which suggests the effects of MK-801 are context-dependent. In addition, we examine the potential role of the dopaminergic system in mediating MK-801's locomotor stimulant effect by quantifying the levels of dopamine and its metabolite 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) in the brains of zebrafish following a 30 min exposure to 10 μM of MK-801 (the dose found to induce the largest increase in locomotor activity). Our findings indicate that the MK-801-induced increase in locomotor activity is not accompanied by changes in whole-brain levels of dopamine or DOPAC. Overall, our results suggest that MK-801's context-dependent locomotor stimulant effect may be independent of whole-brain dopaminergic activation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Repeated rat-forced swim test: reducing the number of animals to evaluate gradual effects of antidepressants.

PubMed

Mezadri, T J; Batista, G M; Portes, A C; Marino-Neto, J; Lino-de-Oliveira, C

2011-02-15

The forced swim test (FST) is a pre-clinical test to short and long term treatment with antidepressant drugs (ADT), which requires between-subject designs. Herein a modified protocol of the FST using within-subject design (repeated rat-FST) was evaluated. Male Wistar rats were submitted to 15 min of swimming (Day 1: pretest) followed by three subsequent 5 min-swimming tests one week apart (Day 2: test, Day 7: retest 1, Day 14: retest 2). To determine the temporal and factorial characteristics of the variables scored in the repeated rat-FST, the protocol was carried out in untreated animals (E1). To validate the method, daily injections of Fluoxetine (FLX, 2.5mg/kg, i.p.) or saline were given over a 2-week period (E2). Tests and retests have been videotaped for further register of the latency, frequency and duration of behaviors. Over retesting the latency to immobility decreased whereas duration of immobility tended to increase. Factorial analysis revealed that the test, the retest 1 as well as the retest 2 have variables suitable to detection of antidepressant-like effects of ADT. Compared to saline, FLX chronically administrated reduced duration of immobility whereas increased duration of swimming in retest 2. The data suggest that repeated rat-FST detected the gradual increase in the efficacy of low doses of FLX over time. Therefore, repeated rat-FST seemed suitable to detect short and long term effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or other ADT, thus reducing the number of animals used in the screenings of this type of compounds. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Is Increasing Coal Seam Gas Well Development Activity Associated with Increasing Hospitalisation Rates in Queensland, Australia? An Exploratory Analysis 1995-2011.

PubMed

Werner, Angela K; Cameron, Cate M; Watt, Kerrianne; Vink, Sue; Jagals, Paul; Page, Andrew

2017-05-18

The majority of Australia's coal seam gas (CSG) reserves are in Queensland, where the industry has expanded rapidly in recent years. Despite concerns, health data have not been examined alongside CSG development. This study examined hospitalisation rates as a function of CSG development activity in Queensland, during the period 1995-2011. Admissions data were examined with CSG well numbers, which served as a proxy for CSG development activity. Time series models were used to assess changes in hospitalisation rates for periods of "low", "medium", "high", and "intense" activity compared to a period of "very low" activity, adjusting for covariates. "All-cause" hospitalisation rates increased monotonically with increasing gas well development activity in females (324.0 to 390.3 per 1000 persons) and males (294.2 to 335.4 per 1000 persons). Hospitalisation rates for "Blood/immune" conditions generally increased for both sexes. Female and male hospitalisation rates for "Circulatory" conditions decreased with increasing CSG activity. Hospitalisation rates were generally low for reproductive and birth outcomes; no clear associations were observed. This study showed some outcomes were associated with increasing CSG development activity. However, as a condition of data access, the population and outcomes were aggregated to a broad geographic study area rather than using higher geographic resolution data. Higher resolution data, as well as other data sources, should be explored. Further research should be conducted with an expanded time period to determine if these trends continue as the industry grows.

Playing active video games increases energy expenditure in children.

PubMed

Graf, Diana L; Pratt, Lauren V; Hester, Casey N; Short, Kevin R

2009-08-01

To compare energy expenditure rates in children playing the physically active video games, Dance Dance Revolution (DDR) and Nintendo's Wii Sports in relation to treadmill walking. Energy expenditure, heart rate, step rate, and perceived exertion were measured in 14 boys and 9 girls (ages 10-13 years; BMI at 3-98th percentile for age and gender) while watching television at rest, playing DDR at 2 skill levels, playing Wii bowling and boxing, and walking at 2.6, 4.2, and 5.7 km/h. Arterial elasticity was measured at rest and immediately after gaming. Compared with watching television, energy expenditure while gaming or walking increased 2- to 3-fold. Similarly, high rates of energy expenditure, heart rate, and perceived exertion were elicited from playing Wii boxing, DDR level 2, or walking at 5.7 km/h. This occurred despite variations in step rate among activities, reflecting greater use of upper body during Wii play (lowest step rate) than during walking (highest step rate) or DDR play. Wii bowling and beginner level DDR elicited a 2-fold increase in energy expenditure compared to television watching. Large-artery elasticity declined immediately after both DDR and Wii. The change was inversely related to the increment in energy expenditure above rest achieved during the activity. Energy expenditure during active video game play is comparable to moderate-intensity walking. Thus, for children who spend considerable time playing electronic screen games for entertainment, physically active games seem to be a safe, fun, and valuable means of promoting energy expenditure.

Expected Increase of Activity of Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kulikova, N. V.; Chepurova, V. M.

2018-04-01

Analysis of the results of modeling disintegration of Comet 1P/Halley after its flare in 1991 has allowed us to predict an increase of the activity of the associated Eta Aquariids meteor shower in April-May 2018.

The Oriental Fruit Fly, Bactrocera dorsalis, in China: Origin and Gradual Inland Range Expansion Associated with Population Growth

PubMed Central

Wan, Xuanwu; Nardi, Francesco; Zhang, Bin; Liu, Yinghong

2011-01-01

The oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis, expanded throughout mainland China in the last century to become one of the most serious pests in the area, yet information on this process are fragmentary. Three mitochondrial genes (nad1, cytb and nad5) were used to infer the genetic diversity, population structure and demographic history of the oriental fruit fly from its entire distribution range in China. High levels of genetic diversity, as well as a significant correspondence between genetic and geographic distances, suggest that the invasion process might have been gradual, with no associated genetic bottlenecks. Three population groups could be identified, nevertheless the overall genetic structure was weak. The effective number of migrants between populations, estimated using the coalescent method, suggested asymmetric gene flow from the costal region of Guangdong to most inland regions. The demographic analysis indicates the oriental fruit fly underwent a recent population expansion in the Central China. We suggest the species originated in the costal region facing the South China Sea and gradually expanded to colonize mainland China, expanding here to high population numbers. PMID:21984907

The oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis, in China: origin and gradual inland range expansion associated with population growth.

PubMed

Wan, Xuanwu; Nardi, Francesco; Zhang, Bin; Liu, Yinghong

2011-01-01

The oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis, expanded throughout mainland China in the last century to become one of the most serious pests in the area, yet information on this process are fragmentary. Three mitochondrial genes (nad1, cytb and nad5) were used to infer the genetic diversity, population structure and demographic history of the oriental fruit fly from its entire distribution range in China. High levels of genetic diversity, as well as a significant correspondence between genetic and geographic distances, suggest that the invasion process might have been gradual, with no associated genetic bottlenecks. Three population groups could be identified, nevertheless the overall genetic structure was weak. The effective number of migrants between populations, estimated using the coalescent method, suggested asymmetric gene flow from the costal region of Guangdong to most inland regions. The demographic analysis indicates the oriental fruit fly underwent a recent population expansion in the Central China. We suggest the species originated in the costal region facing the South China Sea and gradually expanded to colonize mainland China, expanding here to high population numbers.

Increasing Physical Activity in Patients with Arthritis: A Tailored Health Promotion Program

PubMed Central

Ehrlich-Jones, Linda; Mallinson, Trudy; Fischer, Heidi; Bateman, Jillian; Semanik, Pamela A.; Spring, Bonnie; Ruderman, Eric; Chang, Rowland W.

2010-01-01

Objective Despite recent studies showing the benefit of physical activity for people with arthritis, the vast majority of persons with arthritis are not sufficiently physically active. The purpose of this report is to describe a tailored health promotion intervention aimed at increasing physical activity among persons with arthritis. The intervention is designed to be useful for health systems and insurers interested in a chronic disease management program that could be disseminated to large populations of arthritis patients. Methods The intervention is carried out by a clinician who is designated as the client’s physical activity advocate. The approach emphasizes motivational interviewing, individualized goal setting, tailored strategies for increasing physical activity and for monitoring progress, and a plan of 2 years of follow-up. The intervention includes a standardized assessment of barriers to and strengths supporting increased lifestyle physical activity. A randomized, controlled trial is underway to evaluate the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of this intervention. Conclusion This intervention is unique in that it implements a program tailored to the individual that focuses on lifestyle physical activity and long-term monitoring. The approach recognizes that persons with arthritis present with varying levels of motivation for change in physical activity and that behavior change can take a long time to become habitual. PMID:20696695

Lipase immobilization on epoxy-activated poly(vinyl acetate-acrylamide) microspheres.

PubMed

Zhang, Dong-Hao; Peng, Li-Juan; Wang, Yun; Li, Ya-Qiong

2015-05-01

Poly(vinyl acetate-acrylamide) microspheres with an average diameter of 2-4μm were successfully prepared and characterized via SEM and FTIR. Then the microspheres were modified with epoxy groups through reacting with epichlorohydrin and used as carriers to covalently immobilize Candida rugosa lipase. The results revealed that agitation played an important role on epoxy activation and the immobilization ratio increased with the increase of the epoxy density. On the other hand, the specific activity of the immobilized lipase as well as the activity recovery declined gradually with the increase in the immobilization ratio from 72% to 93%, which were attributed to the steric hindrance effects caused by enzyme overloading. When epoxy density was 76μmol/g microsphere, the activity recovery reached the maximum at 47.5%, and the activity of the immobilized lipase was 261.3U/g microsphere. Moreover, the thermal stability of the immobilized lipase was much better than that of the free one, which indicated potential applications of the immobilized lipase. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development of an active boring bar for increased chatter immunity

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

Redmond, J.; Barney, P.; Smith, D.

The development and initial evaluation of a prototype boring bar featuring active vibration control for increased chatter immunity is described. The significance of active damping both normal and tangential to the workpiece surface is evaluated, indicating the need for two axis control to ensure adequate performance over expected variations in tool mounting procedures. The prototype tool features a commercially available boring bar modified to accommodate four PZT stack actuators for two axis bending control. Measured closed-loop dynamics are combined with a computer model of the boring process to simulate increased metal removal rate and improved workpiece surface finish through activemore » control.« less

Increasing Youth Physical Activity with Activity Calendars

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eckler, Seth

2016-01-01

Physical educators often struggle with ways to get their students to be active beyond the school day. One strategy to accomplish this is the use of physical activity calendars (PACs). The purpose of this article is to support the use of PACs and give practical advice for creating effective PACs.

Light Evokes Rapid Circadian Network Oscillator Desynchrony Followed by Gradual Phase Retuning of Synchrony

PubMed Central

Roberts, Logan; Leise, Tanya L.; Noguchi, Takako; Galschiodt, Alexis M.; Houl, Jerry H.; Welsh, David K.; Holmes, Todd C.

2015-01-01

Summary Background Circadian neural circuits generate near 24 hr physiological rhythms that can be entrained by light to coordinate animal physiology with daily solar cycles. To examine how a circadian circuit reorganizes its activity in response to light, we imaged period (per) clock gene cycling for up to 6 days at single neuron resolution in whole brain explant cultures prepared from per-luciferase transgenic flies. We compared cultures subjected to a phase-advancing light pulse (LP) to cultures maintained in darkness (DD). Results In DD, individual neuronal oscillators in all circadian subgroups are initially well synchronized, then show monotonic decrease in oscillator rhythm amplitude and synchrony with time. The s-LNvs and LNds exhibit this decrease at a slower relative rate. In contrast, the LP evokes a rapid loss of oscillator synchrony between and within most circadian neuronal subgroups followed by gradual phase retuning of whole circuit oscillator synchrony. The LNds maintain high rhythmic amplitude and synchrony following the LP along with the most rapid coherent phase advance. Immunocytochemical analysis of PER show these dynamics in DD and LP are recapitulated in vivo. Anatomically distinct circadian neuronal subgroups vary in their response to the LP, showing differences in the degree and kinetics of their loss, recovery and/or strengthening of synchrony and rhythmicity. Conclusions Transient desynchrony appears to be an integral feature of light response of the Drosophila multicellular circadian clock. Individual oscillators in different neuronal subgroups of the circadian circuit show distinct kinetic signatures of light response and phase retuning. PMID:25754644

Quantifying short run cost-effectiveness during a gradual implementation process.

PubMed

van de Wetering, Gijs; Woertman, Willem H; Verbeek, Andre L; Broeders, Mireille J; Adang, Eddy M M

2013-12-01

This paper examines the short run inefficiencies that arise during gradual implementation of a new cost-effective technology in healthcare. These inefficiencies arise when health gains associated with the new technology cannot be obtained immediately because the new technology does not yet supply all patients, and when there is overcapacity for the old technology in the short run because the supply of care is divided among two mutually exclusive technologies. Such efficiency losses are not taken into account in standard textbook cost-effectiveness analysis in which a steady state is presented where costs and effects are assumed to be unchanging over time. A model is constructed to quantify such short run inefficiencies as well as to inform the decision maker about the optimal implementation pattern for the new technology. The model operates by integrating the incremental net benefit equations for both the period of co-existence of mutually exclusive technologies and the period after complete substitution of the old technology. It takes into account the rate of implementation of the new technology, depreciation of capital of the old technology as well as the demand curves for both technologies. The model is applied to the real world case of converting from screen film to digital mammography in the Netherlands.

Increased brain lysosomal pepstatin-insensitive proteinase activity in patients with neurodegenerative diseases.

PubMed

Junaid, M A; Pullarkat, R K

1999-04-02

A recent study has shown mutations in CLN2 gene, that encodes a novel lysosomal pepstatin-insensitive proteinase (LPIP), in the pathophysiology of late-infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (LINCL). We have measured the LPIP activities in brains from various forms of human neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCL), canine ceroid lipofuscinosis and other neurodegenerative disorders with a highly sensitive assay using a tetrapeptide Gly-Phe-Phe-Leu-amino-trifluoromethyl coumarin (AFC) as substrate. Brain LPIP has a pH optimum of 3.5 and an apparent km of 100 microM for the crude enzyme. The enzyme activity is totally absent in LINCL patients. Pronounced increase in the LPIP activity was seen in patients suffering from infantile (INCL), juvenile (JNCL) and adult (ANCL) forms of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses. LPIP activity was also found to be increased about two-fold in Alzheimer's disease when compared with normal or age-matched controls, while in globoidal-cell leukodystrophy (Krabbe's disease) it was similar to the normal controls. Although mannose-6-phosphorylated LPIP is increased 13-fold in brains of patients with JNCL, this form of LPIP did not have any enzyme activity. The mechanism by which LPIP activities are increased in a wide range of neurodegenerative diseases is unknown, although neuronal loss, followed by gliosis are common characteristics of these diseases.

dSir2 mediates the increased spontaneous physical activity in flies on calorie restriction.

PubMed

Parashar, Vijay; Rogina, Blanka

2009-06-22

Calorie restriction (CR) is the most effective way to increase life span and delay the onset of age-related symptoms in animals. We have previously reported that CR affects a variety of physiological phenotypes in flies and results in dramatic behavioral, physical and demographic changes. Here we show effects of low and high calorie levels on the spontaneous physical activity of flies. Wild type flies maintained on a low calorie diet exhibit higher spontaneous activity compared to flies on higher calorie diets. This increase is dependent on the presence of Sir2 since a low calorie diet does not increase the activity of dSir2 null flies. Similarly, increasing dSir2 activity by feeding flies resveratrol, a CR mimetic, increases spontaneous physical activity of flies on high caloric food. In Drosophila, spontaneous physical activity therefore closely mimics life span in its dependence on Sir2.

Thoracoscopic sympathectomy increases efferent cardiac vagal activity and baroreceptor sensitivity.

PubMed

Bygstad, Elisabeth; Terkelsen, Astrid J; Pilegaard, Hans K; Hansen, John; Mølgaard, Henning; Hjortdal, Vibeke E

2013-09-01

Thoracoscopic sympathectomy at levels T2 or T2-T3 is a treatment for focal hyperhidrosis and facial blushing. These levels of the sympathetic trunk innervate the heart, and consequently, the procedure is reported to change the heart rate variability due to changes in efferent cardiac autonomic activity. Our objective was to investigate the effects of thoracoscopic sympathectomy on global autonomic control, including baroreceptor sensitivity. Eight patients (6 F, median age 28 years [range 20-58 years]) were exposed to the tilt-table test and cardiopulmonary exercise test before, and 3 months after, thoracoscopic sympathectomy. Eight healthy age-, gender- and BMI-matched controls were used as controls and underwent the same tests once. During tilt-table testing electrocardiogram, blood pressure, impedance cardiography and respiration were measured continuously, and efferent cardiac autonomic balance was estimated. The heart rate measured during orthostatic stress test was lowered after thoracoscopic sympathectomy (between-group; P = 0.01) due to a change in autonomic tone, with increased vagal (high-frequency power n.u.; P = 0.001), and reduced sympathetic efferent cardiac activity (low-frequency power n.u.; P < 0.001). Baroreceptor sensitivity measured during rest was increased (26 ± 13 vs 44 ± 19 ms/mmHg; P = 0.01), and diastolic blood pressure reduced after surgery (P = 0.01). The increases in systolic blood pressure and the sympathetic marker CCV-LF in response to orthostatic stress were higher before sympathectomy, with almost no increases post-surgically (condition × group interaction; P = 0.01 and P = 0.001, respectively). We found no change in post-procedure exercise capacity, although patients had a lower peak VO2 and maximal cardiac index than controls. Thoracoscopic sympathectomy changes the autonomic tone towards increased vagal activity; this is potentially cardioprotective. To our knowledge, this is the first study to show increased baroreceptor

Changes in cervical compliance at parturition independent of uterine activity.

PubMed

Stys, S J; Clewell, W H; Meschia, G

1978-02-15

A new animal model has been developed to measure intrinsic changes of cerivcal compliance during spontaneous parturition or exposure to hormonal manipulation. Intermittent measurements of cervical compliance and continous measurements of uterine and cervical pressure were made during the last month of gestation of nine pregnant ewes. Cervical compliance increased abruptly and dramatically during spontanous and dexamethasone-induced parturition. Maternal progesterone supplementation at parturition inhibited uterine contractions but not the increase in cervical compliance, demonstrating the independence of the two events. The cervix was found to contract rhythmically and vigorously with a gradual decrease in activity as parturition approached.

Emotional outlook on life predicts increases in physical activity among initially inactive men.

PubMed

Baruth, Meghan; Lee, Duck-Chul; Sui, Xuemei; Church, Timothy S; Marcus, Bess H; Wilcox, Sara; Blair, Steven N

2011-04-01

This study examined the relationship between emotional outlook on life and change in physical activity among inactive adults in the Aerobics Center Longitudinal Study. A total of 2,132 sedentary adults completed a baseline medical examination and returned for a follow-up examination at least 6 months later. Participants self-reported physical activity level and emotional outlook on life. Emotional outlook on life was significantly and positively related to physical activity participation at the follow-up visit in men but not women. Men who were usually very happy and optimistic at baseline had significantly greater increases in physical activity compared to men who were not happy. Men with a more positive outlook on life (e.g., happier) may be more likely to increase physical activity levels. Physical activity interventions targeting men may be more successful if they first increase happiness.

Active learning increases student performance in science, engineering, and mathematics.

PubMed

Freeman, Scott; Eddy, Sarah L; McDonough, Miles; Smith, Michelle K; Okoroafor, Nnadozie; Jordt, Hannah; Wenderoth, Mary Pat

2014-06-10

To test the hypothesis that lecturing maximizes learning and course performance, we metaanalyzed 225 studies that reported data on examination scores or failure rates when comparing student performance in undergraduate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses under traditional lecturing versus active learning. The effect sizes indicate that on average, student performance on examinations and concept inventories increased by 0.47 SDs under active learning (n = 158 studies), and that the odds ratio for failing was 1.95 under traditional lecturing (n = 67 studies). These results indicate that average examination scores improved by about 6% in active learning sections, and that students in classes with traditional lecturing were 1.5 times more likely to fail than were students in classes with active learning. Heterogeneity analyses indicated that both results hold across the STEM disciplines, that active learning increases scores on concept inventories more than on course examinations, and that active learning appears effective across all class sizes--although the greatest effects are in small (n ≤ 50) classes. Trim and fill analyses and fail-safe n calculations suggest that the results are not due to publication bias. The results also appear robust to variation in the methodological rigor of the included studies, based on the quality of controls over student quality and instructor identity. This is the largest and most comprehensive metaanalysis of undergraduate STEM education published to date. The results raise questions about the continued use of traditional lecturing as a control in research studies, and support active learning as the preferred, empirically validated teaching practice in regular classrooms.

Active learning increases student performance in science, engineering, and mathematics

PubMed Central

Freeman, Scott; Eddy, Sarah L.; McDonough, Miles; Smith, Michelle K.; Okoroafor, Nnadozie; Jordt, Hannah; Wenderoth, Mary Pat

2014-01-01

To test the hypothesis that lecturing maximizes learning and course performance, we metaanalyzed 225 studies that reported data on examination scores or failure rates when comparing student performance in undergraduate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses under traditional lecturing versus active learning. The effect sizes indicate that on average, student performance on examinations and concept inventories increased by 0.47 SDs under active learning (n = 158 studies), and that the odds ratio for failing was 1.95 under traditional lecturing (n = 67 studies). These results indicate that average examination scores improved by about 6% in active learning sections, and that students in classes with traditional lecturing were 1.5 times more likely to fail than were students in classes with active learning. Heterogeneity analyses indicated that both results hold across the STEM disciplines, that active learning increases scores on concept inventories more than on course examinations, and that active learning appears effective across all class sizes—although the greatest effects are in small (n ≤ 50) classes. Trim and fill analyses and fail-safe n calculations suggest that the results are not due to publication bias. The results also appear robust to variation in the methodological rigor of the included studies, based on the quality of controls over student quality and instructor identity. This is the largest and most comprehensive metaanalysis of undergraduate STEM education published to date. The results raise questions about the continued use of traditional lecturing as a control in research studies, and support active learning as the preferred, empirically validated teaching practice in regular classrooms. PMID:24821756

Geomagnetic activity during the previous day is correlated with increased consumption of sucrose during subsequent days: is increased geomagnetic activity aversive?

PubMed

Galic, M A; Persinger, M A

2004-06-01

In five separate blocks over a period of several months for 33 female rats the amount of geomagnetic activity during the day before ad libitum access to 10% sucrose or water was positively correlated with the volume of sucrose consumed per 24-hr. period. The strength of the correlation (.62 to .77) declined over the subsequent 10 days from between .12 to -.18 and resembled an extinction curve. In a subsequent experiment four rats exposed to 5 nT to 8 nT, 0.5-Hz magnetic fields that ceased for 30 min. once every 4 hr. for 4 days consumed 11% more sucrose than the four rats exposed to no field. We suggest that the initial consumption of 10% sucrose may have been reinforced because it diminished the aversive physiological effects associated with the increased geomagnetic activity. However, over the subsequent days, as geomagnetic activity decreased or habituation occurred, negative reinforcement did not maintain this behavior.

Open-loop feedback to increase physical activity in obese children.

PubMed

Goldfield, G S; Kalakanis, L E; Ernst, M M; Epstein, L H

2000-07-01

The present study investigated whether making access to sedentary activities contingent on physical activity would increase physical activity. Experimental. Thirty-four obese children aged 8-12 y were randomized to one of three groups in which children had to accumulate 750 or 1500 pedometer counts to earn 10 min of access to video games or movies, or to a control group in which access to sedentary behaviors was provided noncontingently. Physical activity in the 20 min experimental session was measured by electronic pedometer and triaxial accelerometer (ie TriTrac(R)). Activity liking was measured by visual analog scales. Anthropometric and demographic characteristics were also assessed. Children in the 750 and 1500 count contingency groups engaged in significantly more physical activity and spent more time in moderate intensity activity or higher compared with controls. Children in the Contingent 1500 group engaged in more activity and spent more time in moderate or greater intensity activity compared to children in the Contingent 750 group. Findings suggest that contingent access to sedentary activities can reinforce physical activity in obese children, and changes in physical activity level depend in part on the targeted physical activity goal.

A cam deformity is gradually acquired during skeletal maturation in adolescent and young male soccer players: a prospective study with minimum 2-year follow-up.

PubMed

Agricola, Rintje; Heijboer, Marinus P; Ginai, Abida Z; Roels, Pauline; Zadpoor, Amir A; Verhaar, Jan A N; Weinans, Harrie; Waarsing, Jan H

2014-04-01

A cam deformity is a major risk factor for hip osteoarthritis, and its formation is thought to be influenced by high-impact sporting activities during growth. To (1) prospectively study whether a cam deformity can evolve over time in adolescents and whether its formation only occurs during skeletal maturation and (2) examine whether clinical or radiographic features can predict the formation of a cam deformity. Cohort study (prognosis); Level of evidence, 2. Preprofessional soccer players (N = 63; mean age, 14.43 years; range, 12-19 years) participated both at baseline and follow-up (mean follow-up, 2.4 ± 0.06 years). At both time points, standardized anteroposterior and frog-leg lateral radiographs were obtained. For each hip, the α angle was measured, and the anterosuperior head-neck junction was classified by a 3-point visual system as normal, flattened, or having a prominence. Differences between baseline and follow-up values for the α angle and the prevalence of each visual hip classification were calculated. Additionally, the amount of internal hip rotation, growth plate extension into the neck, and neck shaft angle were determined. Overall, there was a significant increase in the prevalence of a cam deformity during follow-up. In boys aged 12 and 13 years at baseline, the prevalence of a flattened head-neck junction increased significantly during follow-up (13.6% to 50.0%; P = .002). In all hips with an open growth plate at baseline, the prevalence of a prominence increased from 2.1% to 17.7% (P = .002). After closure of the proximal femoral growth plate, there was no significant increase in the prevalence or increase in severity of a cam deformity. The α angle increased significantly from 59.4° at baseline to 61.3° at follow-up (P = .018). The amount of growth plate extension was significantly associated with the α angle and hip classification (P = .001). A small neck shaft angle and limited internal rotation were associated with cam deformities and

Methods of increasing secretion of polypeptides having biological activity

DOEpatents

Merino, Sandra

2014-05-27

The present invention relates to methods for producing a secreted polypeptide having biological activity, comprising: (a) transforming a fungal host cell with a fusion protein construct encoding a fusion protein, which comprises: (i) a first polynucleotide encoding a signal peptide; (ii) a second polynucleotide encoding at least a catalytic domain of an endoglucanase or a portion thereof; and (iii) a third polynucleotide encoding at least a catalytic domain of a polypeptide having biological activity; wherein the signal peptide and at least the catalytic domain of the endoglucanase increases secretion of the polypeptide having biological activity compared to the absence of at least the catalytic domain of the endoglucanase; (b) cultivating the transformed fungal host cell under conditions suitable for production of the fusion protein; and (c) recovering the fusion protein, a component thereof, or a combination thereof, having biological activity, from the cultivation medium.

Methods of increasing secretion of polypeptides having biological activity

DOEpatents

Merino, Sandra

2014-10-28

The present invention relates to methods for producing a secreted polypeptide having biological activity, comprising: (a) transforming a fungal host cell with a fusion protein construct encoding a fusion protein, which comprises: (i) a first polynucleotide encoding a signal peptide; (ii) a second polynucleotide encoding at least a catalytic domain of an endoglucanase or a portion thereof; and (iii) a third polynucleotide encoding at least a catalytic domain of a polypeptide having biological activity; wherein the signal peptide and at least the catalytic domain of the endoglucanase increases secretion of the polypeptide having biological activity compared to the absence of at least the catalytic domain of the endoglucanase; (b) cultivating the transformed fungal host cell under conditions suitable for production of the fusion protein; and (c) recovering the fusion protein, a component thereof, or a combination thereof, having biological activity, from the cultivation medium.

Methods of increasing secretion of polypeptides having biological activity

DOEpatents

Merino, Sandra

2015-04-14

The present invention relates to methods for producing a secreted polypeptide having biological activity, comprising: (a) transforming a fungal host cell with a fusion protein construct encoding a fusion protein, which comprises: (i) a first polynucleotide encoding a signal peptide; (ii) a second polynucleotide encoding at least a catalytic domain of an endoglucanase or a portion thereof; and (iii) a third polynucleotide encoding at least a catalytic domain of a polypeptide having biological activity; wherein the signal peptide and at least the catalytic domain of the endoglucanase increases secretion of the polypeptide having biological activity compared to the absence of at least the catalytic domain of the endoglucanase; (b) cultivating the transformed fungal host cell under conditions suitable for production of the fusion protein; and (c) recovering the fusion protein, a component thereof, or a combination thereof, having biological activity, from the cultivation medium.

Methods of increasing secretion of polypeptides having biological activity

DOEpatents

Merino, Sandra

2013-10-01

The present invention relates to methods for producing a secreted polypeptide having biological activity, comprising: (a) transforming a fungal host cell with a fusion protein construct encoding a fusion protein, which comprises: (i) a first polynucleotide encoding a signal peptide; (ii) a second polynucleotide encoding at least a catalytic domain of an endoglucanase or a portion thereof; and (iii) a third polynucleotide encoding at least a catalytic domain of a polypeptide having biological activity; wherein the signal peptide and at least the catalytic domain of the endoglucanase increases secretion of the polypeptide having biological activity compared to the absence of at least the catalytic domain of the endoglucanase; (b) cultivating the transformed fungal host cell under conditions suitable for production of the fusion protein; and (c) recovering the fusion protein, a component thereof, or a combination thereof, having biological activity, from the cultivation medium.

Active Early: one-year policy intervention to increase physical activity among early care and education programs in Wisconsin.

PubMed

LaRowe, Tara L; Tomayko, Emily J; Meinen, Amy M; Hoiting, Jill; Saxler, Courtney; Cullen, Bridget

2016-07-20

Early childcare and education (ECE) is a prime setting for obesity prevention and the establishment of healthy behaviors. The objective of this quasi-experimental study was to examine the efficacy of the Active Early guide, which includes evidenced-based approaches, provider resources, and training, to improve physical activity opportunities through structured (i.e. teacher-led) activity and environmental changes thereby increasing physical activity among children, ages 2-5 years, in the ECE setting. Twenty ECE programs in Wisconsin, 7 family and 13 group, were included. An 80-page guide, Active Early, was developed by experts and statewide partners in the fields of ECE, public health, and physical activity and was revised by ECE providers prior to implementation. Over 12 months, ECE programs received on-site training and technical assistance to implement the strategies and resources provided in the Active Early guide. Main outcome measures included observed minutes of teacher-led physical activity, physical activity environment measured by the Environment and Policy Assessment and Observation (EPAO) instrument, and child physical activity levels via accelerometry. All measures were collected at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months and were analyzed for changes over time. Observed teacher-led physical activity significantly increased from 30.9 ± 22.7 min at baseline to 82.3 ± 41.3 min at 12 months. The change in percent time children spent in sedentary activity decreased significantly after 12 months (-4.4 ± 14.2 % time, -29.2 ± 2.6 min, p < 0.02). Additionally, as teacher led-activity increased, percent time children were sedentary decreased (r = -0.37, p < 0.05) and percent time spent in light physical activity increased (r = 0.35, p < 0.05). Among all ECE programs, the physical activity environment improved significantly as indicated by multiple sub-scales of the EPAO; scores showing the greatest increases were the

Increasing potential predictability of Indian Summer monsoon active and break spells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mani, N. J.; Goswami, B.

2009-12-01

An understanding of the limit on potential predictability is crucial for developing appropriate tools for extended range prediction of active/break spells of Indian summer monsoon (ISM). The global low frequency changes in climate modulate the annual cycle of the ISM and can influence the intrinsic predictability limit of the ISM intraseasonal oscillations (ISOs). Using 104 year (1901-2004) long daily rainfall data, the change in potential predictability of active and break spells are estimated by an empirical method. Using an ISO index based on 10-90 day filtered precipitation, Goswami and Xavier (2003)showed that the monsoon breaks are intrinsically more predictable (20-25 days) than the active conditions (10-15 days. In the present study, employing the same method in 15 year sliding windows, we found that the potential predictability of both active and break spells have undergone a rapid increase during the recent three decades. The potential predictability of active spells has shown an increase from 1 week to 2 weeks while that for break spells increased from 2 weeks to 3 weeks. This result is interesting and intriguing in the backdrop of recent finding that the potential predictability of monsoon weather has decreased substantially over the same period compared to earlier decades due to increased potential instability of the atmosphere. The possible role of internal dynamics and external forcing in producing this change has been explored. The variance among peak active/break conditions shows a steady decrease over the years, indicating a lesser event to event variability in the magnitude of ISO peak phases in recent years. The ISO predictability may be closely linked to the error energy cascading from the synoptic scales and the interaction between these scales. Computation of nonlinear kinetic energy exchange between synoptic and ISO scales in frequency domain, also support the notion of ineffectual influence of synoptic scale errors on the ISO scale

Increasing Children’s Physical Activity During School Recess Periods

PubMed Central

Ludwig, David

2013-01-01

Objectives. We examined whether schools’ participation in the Recess Enhancement Program (REP) in the spring of 2011 was associated with higher rates of children’s vigorous physical activity. Methods. In REP, a coach guides children through age-appropriate games aimed at increasing their physical activity. During recess at 25 New York City public elementary schools (15 REP, 10 non-REP), researchers visually scanned predetermined areas (n = 1339 scans), recording the number of sedentary, walking, and very active children. Results. Multivariate statistical analysis found that participation in REP was a significant predictor (P = .027) of the rate of vigorous physical activity (percentage very active in scan area) whose least-squares means were 41% in REP schools and 27% in non-REP schools. A significantly higher rate in REP schools persisted when the coach was not in the scan area, suggesting a change in the recess culture of REP schools. Conclusions. The rate of vigorous physical activity in REP schools was 14 percentage points, or 52%, higher than the rate in non-REP schools. This low-cost intervention might be a valuable addition to the tools for combating childhood obesity and worth replicating elsewhere. PMID:23678902

The QTL GNP1 Encodes GA20ox1, Which Increases Grain Number and Yield by Increasing Cytokinin Activity in Rice Panicle Meristems.

PubMed

Wu, Yuan; Wang, Yun; Mi, Xue-Fei; Shan, Jun-Xiang; Li, Xin-Min; Xu, Jian-Long; Lin, Hong-Xuan

2016-10-01

Cytokinins and gibberellins (GAs) play antagonistic roles in regulating reproductive meristem activity. Cytokinins have positive effects on meristem activity and maintenance. During inflorescence meristem development, cytokinin biosynthesis is activated via a KNOX-mediated pathway. Increased cytokinin activity leads to higher grain number, whereas GAs negatively affect meristem activity. The GA biosynthesis genes GA20oxs are negatively regulated by KNOX proteins. KNOX proteins function as modulators, balancing cytokinin and GA activity in the meristem. However, little is known about the crosstalk among cytokinin and GA regulators together with KNOX proteins and how KNOX-mediated dynamic balancing of hormonal activity functions. Through map-based cloning of QTLs, we cloned a GA biosynthesis gene, Grain Number per Panicle1 (GNP1), which encodes rice GA20ox1. The grain number and yield of NIL-GNP1TQ were significantly higher than those of isogenic control (Lemont). Sequence variations in its promoter region increased the levels of GNP1 transcripts, which were enriched in the apical regions of inflorescence meristems in NIL-GNP1TQ. We propose that cytokinin activity increased due to a KNOX-mediated transcriptional feedback loop resulting from the higher GNP1 transcript levels, in turn leading to increased expression of the GA catabolism genes GA2oxs and reduced GA1 and GA3 accumulation. This rebalancing process increased cytokinin activity, thereby increasing grain number and grain yield in rice. These findings uncover important, novel roles of GAs in rice florescence meristem development and provide new insights into the crosstalk between cytokinin and GA underlying development process.

Beneficial effect of fluoxetine treatment aganist psychological stress is mediated by increasing BDNF expression in selected brain areas

PubMed Central

Li, Gongying; Jing, Ping; Liu, Zhidong; Li, Zhiruo; Ma, Hongxia; Tu, Wenzhen; Zhang, Wei; Zhuo, Chuanjun

2017-01-01

SSRI antidepressant fluoxetine is widely used to treat psychological stress related disorders, however the underlying working mechanisms is not fully understood, as SSRIs can rapidly increase the extracellular serotonin levels but it normally takes weeks to reveal their therapeutic effect in the stress-related psychological disorders. Our previous study demonstrated that purely psychological stress without any physic stimuli induces a biphasic change in the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which immediately decrease and then gradually increase after the stress; and that the latter BDNF increase in response to the psychological stress involves the activation of serotonin system. To investigate the role of BDNF in the fluoxetine treatment for stress-related psychological disorders, we examined the mRNA and protein levels of BDNF in the brain of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, which were pretreated with fluoxetine at 10 mg/kg or vehicle solution for 14 days, over 24 hour after an acute psychological stress exposure. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry were performed to detect the expression of BDNF at different time points in various brain regions after the psychological stress. We found that fluoxetine treatment completely blocked the BDNF decrease induced by the psychological stress, and also enhanced the gradual increase in the expression of BDNF in most of the brain regions except VTA after the psychological stress. The results suggest that the enhancement in BDNF levels induced by chronic fluoxetine treatment mediates the therapeutic effect against psychological stress. PMID:29050222

Automated choroid segmentation based on gradual intensity distance in HD-OCT images.

PubMed

Chen, Qiang; Fan, Wen; Niu, Sijie; Shi, Jiajia; Shen, Honglie; Yuan, Songtao

2015-04-06

The choroid is an important structure of the eye and plays a vital role in the pathology of retinal diseases. This paper presents an automated choroid segmentation method for high-definition optical coherence tomography (HD-OCT) images, including Bruch's membrane (BM) segmentation and choroidal-scleral interface (CSI) segmentation. An improved retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) complex removal algorithm is presented to segment BM by considering the structure characteristics of retinal layers. By analyzing the characteristics of CSI boundaries, we present a novel algorithm to generate a gradual intensity distance image. Then an improved 2-D graph search method with curve smooth constraints is used to obtain the CSI segmentation. Experimental results with 212 HD-OCT images from 110 eyes in 66 patients demonstrate that the proposed method can achieve high segmentation accuracy. The mean choroid thickness difference and overlap ratio between our proposed method and outlines drawn by experts was 6.72µm and 85.04%, respectively.

An evolutionary perspective on gradual formation of superego in the primal horde

PubMed Central

Pulcu, Erdem

2014-01-01

Freud proposed that the processes which occurred in the primal horde are essential for understanding superego formation and therefore, the successful dissolution of the Oedipus complex. However, Freud theorized superego formation in the primal horde as if it is an instant, all-or-none achievement. The present paper proposes an alternative model aiming to explain gradual development of superego in the primitive man. The proposed model is built on knowledge from evolutionary and neural sciences as well as anthropology, and it particularly focuses on the evolutionary significance of the acquisition of fire by hominids in the Pleistocene period in the light of up-to-date archaeological findings. Acquisition of fire is discussed as a form of sublimation which might have helped Prehistoric man to maximize the utility of limited evolutionary biological resources, potentially contributing to the rate and extent of bodily evolution. The limitations of both Freud's original conceptualization and the present model are discussed accordingly in an interdisciplinary framework. PMID:24478740

Simultaneous Modeling of Gradual SEP Events at the Earth and the Mars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, J.; Li, G.

2017-12-01

Solar Energetic Particles (SEP) event is the number one space hazard for spacecraft instruments and astronauts' safety. Recent studies have shown that both longitudinal and radial extent of SEP events can be very significant. In this work, we use the improved Particle Acceleration and Transport in the Heliosphere (iPATH) model to simulate gradual SEP events that have impacts upon both the Earth and the Mars. We follow the propagation of a 2D CME-driven shock. Particles are accelerated at the shock via the diffusive shock acceleration (DSA) mechanism. Transport of the escaped particles to the Earth and the Mars is then followed using a backward stochastic differential equation method. Perpendicular diffusion is considered in both the DSA and the transport process. Model results such as time intensity profile and energetic particle spectrum at the two locations are compared to understand the spatial extent of an SEP event. Observational data at the Earth and the Mars are also studied to validate the model.

Reduced Frontal Activation with Increasing 2nd Language Proficiency

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stein, Maria; Federspiel, Andrea; Koenig, Thomas; Wirth, Miranka; Lehmann, Christoph; Wiest, Roland; Strik, Werner; Brandeis, Daniel; Dierks, Thomas

2009-01-01

The factors influencing the degree of separation or overlap in the neuronal networks responsible for the processing of first and second language are still subject to investigation. This longitudinal study investigates how increasing second language proficiency influences activation differences during lexico-semantic processing of first and second…

Betaine increases the butyrylcholinesterase activity in rat plasma.

PubMed

Šišková, K; Dubničková, M; Pašková, Ľ; Rajdl, D; Ďuračková, Z; Muchová, J; Pauliková, I; Racek, J

2016-01-01

The physiological function of butyrylcholinesterase (EC 3.1.1.8, BChE) is not clearly understood, but a role was suggested in the fat utilization process, resulting in positive correlation between plasma triglyceride (TG) levels and BChE activity. Consequently we tested the hypothesis that regular intake of betaine, a natural compound intervening in the liver TG metabolism could influence the BChE activity. The BChE activity was estimated spectrophotometrically in plasma of rats fed with betaine enriched standard (B) or high-fat diet (HFB). The results confirmed decreased TG plasma levels after betaine treatment independently on the type of diet (0.15+/-0.03 (B) vs. 0.27+/-0.08 (control) mmol/l; p=0.003 and 0.13+/-0.03 (HFB) vs. 0.27+/-0.08 (control) mmol/l; p=0.005). The BChE activity increased significantly with betaine administration, however the change was more distinct in the HFB group (0.84+/-0.34 (HFB) vs. 0.22+/-0.04 (control) O.D./min/mg; p<0.001 and 0.41+/-0.11 (B) vs. 0.22+/-0.04 (control) O.D./min/mg; p=0.001). In conclusion, betaine intake led to elevated BChE activity in plasma and this effect was potentiated by the HF diet. Since betaine is in general used as a supplement in the treatment of liver diseases accompanied by TG overload, its impact on the BChE activity in the role of the liver function marker should be taken into account.

Oral Administration of Probiotics Increases Paneth Cells and Intestinal Antimicrobial Activity.

PubMed

Cazorla, Silvia I; Maldonado-Galdeano, Carolina; Weill, Ricardo; De Paula, Juan; Perdigón, Gabriela D V

2018-01-01

The huge amount of intestinal bacteria represents a continuing threat to the intestinal barrier. To meet this challenge, gut epithelial cells produce antimicrobial peptides (AMP) that act at the forefront of innate immunity. We explore whether this antimicrobial activity and Paneth cells, the main intestinal cell responsible of AMP production, are influenced by probiotics administration, to avoid the imbalance of intestinal microbiota and preserve intestinal barrier. Administration of Lactobacillus casei CRL 431 (Lc 431) and L. paracasei CNCM I-1518 (Lp 1518) to 42 days old mice, increases the number of Paneth cells on small intestine, and the antimicrobial activity against the pathogens Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella Typhimurium in the intestinal fluids. Specifically, strong damage of the bacterial cell with leakage of cytoplasmic content, and cellular fragmentation were observed in S. Typhimurium and S. aureus . Even more important, probiotics increase the antimicrobial activity of the intestinal fluids at the different ages, from weaning (21 days old) to old age (180 days old). Intestinal antimicrobial activity stimulated by oral probiotics, do not influence significantly the composition of total anaerobic bacteria, lactobacilli and enterobacteria in the large intestine, at any age analyzed. This result, together with the antimicrobial activity observed against the same probiotic bacteria; endorse the regular consumption of probiotics without adverse effect on the intestinal homeostasis in healthy individuals. We demonstrate that oral probiotics increase intestinal antimicrobial activity and Paneth cells in order to strengthen epithelial barrier against pathogens. This effect would be another important mechanism by which probiotics protect the host mainly against infectious diseases.

Net superoxide levels: steeper increase with activity in cooler female and hotter male lizards.

PubMed

Ballen, Cissy; Healey, Mo; Wilson, Mark; Tobler, Michael; Wapstra, Erik; Olsson, Mats

2012-03-01

Ectotherms increase their body temperature in response to ambient heat, thereby elevating their metabolic rate. An often inferred consequence of this is an overall upregulation of gene expression and energetic expenditure, and a concomitant increased production of reactive oxygen species (e.g. superoxide) and, perhaps, a shortened lifespan. However, recent work shows that this may be a superficial interpretation. For example, sometimes a reduced temperature may in fact trigger up-regulation of gene expression. We studied temperature and associated activity effects in male and female Australian painted dragon lizards (Ctenophorus pictus) by allowing the lizards to bask for 4 h versus 12 h, and scoring their associated activity (inactive versus active basking and foraging). As predicted, long-basking lizards (hereafter 'hot') showed heightened activity in both sexes, with a more pronounced effect in females. We then tested for sex-specific effects of basking treatment and activity levels on the increase in net levels of superoxide. In males, short-baskers (hereafter 'cold') had significantly more rapidly decreasing levels of superoxide per unit increasing activity than hot males. In females, however, superoxide levels increased faster with increasing activity in the cold than in the hot basking treatment, and females earlier in the ovarian cycle had lower superoxide levels than females closer to ovulation. In short, males and females differ in how their levels of reactive oxygen species change with temperature-triggered activity.

Estimating heat tolerance of plants by ion leakage: a new method based on gradual heating.

PubMed

Ilík, Petr; Špundová, Martina; Šicner, Michal; Melkovičová, Helena; Kučerová, Zuzana; Krchňák, Pavel; Fürst, Tomáš; Večeřová, Kristýna; Panzarová, Klára; Benediktyová, Zuzana; Trtílek, Martin

2018-05-01

Heat tolerance of plants related to cell membrane thermostability is commonly estimated via the measurement of ion leakage from plant segments after defined heat treatment. To compare heat tolerance of various plants, it is crucial to select suitable heating conditions. This selection is time-consuming and optimizing the conditions for all investigated plants may even be impossible. Another problem of the method is its tendency to overestimate basal heat tolerance. Here we present an improved ion leakage method, which does not suffer from these drawbacks. It is based on gradual heating of plant segments in a water bath or algal suspensions from room temperature up to 70-75°C. The electrical conductivity of the bath/suspension, which is measured continuously during heating, abruptly increases at a certain temperature T COND (within 55-70°C). The T COND value can be taken as a measure of cell membrane thermostability, representing the heat tolerance of plants/organisms. Higher T COND corresponds to higher heat tolerance (basal or acquired) connected to higher thermostability of the cell membrane, as evidenced by the common ion leakage method. The new method also enables determination of the thermostability of photochemical reactions in photosynthetic samples via the simultaneous measurement of Chl fluorescence. © 2018 The Authors. New Phytologist © 2018 New Phytologist Trust.

Daily intake of Lactobacillus casei Shirota increases natural killer cell activity in smokers.

PubMed

Reale, Marcella; Boscolo, Paolo; Bellante, Veronica; Tarantelli, Chiara; Di Nicola, Marta; Forcella, Laura; Li, Qing; Morimoto, Kanehisa; Muraro, Raffaella

2012-07-01

Dietary probiotics supplementation exerts beneficial health effects. Since cigarette smoking reduces natural killer (NK) activity, we evaluated the effect of Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) intake on NK cytotoxic activity in male smokers. The double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised study was conducted on seventy-two healthy Italian blue-collar male smokers randomly divided for daily intake of LcS powder or placebo. Before and after 3 weeks of intake, peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated and NK activity and CD16⁺ cells' number were assessed. Daily LcS intake for 3 weeks significantly increased NK activity (P < 0.001). The increase in NK activity was paralleled by an increase in CD16⁺ cells (P < 0.001). Before intake, NK cytotoxic activity inversely correlated with the number of cigarettes smoked (R - 0.064). LcS intake prevented the smoke-dependent expected NK activity reduction. The analysis of the distribution of changes in smoke-adjusted NK activity demonstrated that the positive variations were significantly associated with LcS intake, while the negative variations were associated with placebo intake (median value of distributions of differences, 20.98 lytic unit (LU)/10⁷ cells for LcS v. - 4.38 LU/10⁷ cells for placebo, P = 0.039). In conclusion, 3 weeks of daily LcS intake in Italian male smokers was associated with a higher increase in cytotoxic activity and CD16⁺ cells' number in comparison to the placebo intake group.

Projecting climate-driven increases in North American fire activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, D.; Morton, D. C.; Collatz, G. J.

2013-12-01

Climate regulates fire activity through controls on vegetation productivity (fuels), lightning ignitions, and conditions governing fire spread. In many regions of the world, human management also influences the timing, duration, and extent of fire activity. These coupled interactions between human and natural systems make fire a complex component of the Earth system. Satellite data provide valuable information on the spatial and temporal dynamics of recent fire activity, as active fires, burned area, and land cover information can be combined to separate wildfires from intentional burning for agriculture and forestry. Here, we combined satellite-derived burned area data with land cover and climate data to assess fire-climate relationships in North America between 2000-2012. We used the latest versions of the Global Fire Emissions Database (GFED) burned area product and Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications (MERRA) climate data to develop regional relationships between burned area and potential evaporation (PE), an integrated dryness metric. Logistic regression models were developed to link burned area with PE and individual climate variables during and preceding the fire season, and optimal models were selected based on Akaike Information Criterion (AIC). Overall, our model explained 85% of the variance in burned area since 2000 across North America. Fire-climate relationships from the era of satellite observations provide a blueprint for potential changes in fire activity under scenarios of climate change. We used that blueprint to evaluate potential changes in fire activity over the next 50 years based on twenty models from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5). All models suggest an increase of PE under low and high emissions scenarios (Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP) 4.5 and 8.5, respectively), with largest increases in projected burned area across the western US and central Canada. Overall, near

THE REGENERATIVE CYCLE OF MOTONEURONS, WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO PHOSPHATASE ACTIVITY.

PubMed

Bodian, D; Mellors, R C

1945-05-01

1. The regenerative cycle of motoneurons after axon amputation is described, and an attempt made to correlate morphological and chemical events in cell bodies with the growth requirements of regenerating axons. 2. The "normal" pattern of Nissl material in the cell is considered to be the resultant of a steady state in cytoplasmic nucleoprotein. Chromatol is then interpreted as a shift of the balance of nucleoprotein turnover in fa of degradation. The rapid early depletion of Nissl substance in chromatolysis is ascribed to the increased growth requirements created by the active early sprouting of the regenerating axon. Acid phosphatase activity begins to increase above normal levels during this period in the region of nucleopro degradation. 3. The recovery period of chromatolysis due to axon section coincide in time with the phase of gradual lengthening of the regenerating axon, and is thought to represent a gradual restoration of the balance of nucleoprotein degradation and synthesis. During this period acid phosphatase activity is at its height in the region of transformation of Nissl substance, later declines to normal levels when the original pattern of Nissl bodie is restored. 4. The transformation of cytoplasmic nucleoprotein which occurs in chromatolysis after axon section, with the probable liberation (46), and depletion (44), of nucleotides, associated with acid phosphatase activity, suggests the hypothesis that liberated nucleotides or nucleotide compounds may pass down the axon in which they take part in enzymatic activity associated with growth and organization of the newly formed axon. This type of activity would not be incompatible with the ideas previously expressed (30, 81) of a continual function of Nissl substance in maintaining the integrity of the large volume of cytoplasm represented by the axon, as well perhaps as the associated myelin sheath.

Evidence-based practice guideline: increasing physical activity in schools--kindergarten through 8th grade.

PubMed

Bagby, Karen; Adams, Susan

2007-06-01

Because of the growing obesity epidemic across all age groups in the United States, interventions to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviors have become a priority. Evidence is growing that interventions to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviors have positive results and are generally inexpensive to implement. National and international health organizations are calling for a comprehensive approach for reducing obesity in children that includes increasing physical activity in the school setting. Although the call to increase activity levels in schools is clear, little guidance has been given to schools on specific methods to accomplish this task. This article provides an overview of an evidence-based guideline developed by a physical education teacher and a school nurse to provide inexpensive, easy-to-implement, effective strategies to increase physical activity in students. Tools are also included in the guideline to measure the effectiveness of the intervention.

Gradual training of alpacas to the confinement of metabolism pens reduces stress when normal excretion behavior is accommodated.

PubMed

Lund, Kirrin E; Maloney, Shane K; Milton, John T B; Blache, Dominique

2012-01-01

Confinement in metabolism pens may provoke a stress response in alpacas that will reduce the welfare of the animal and jeopardize the validity of scientific results obtained in such pens. In this study, we tested a protocol designed to successfully train alpacas to be held in a specially designed metabolism pen so that the animals' confinement would not jeopardize their welfare. We hypothesized that the alpacas would show fewer behaviors associated with a response to stress as training gradually progressed, and that they would adapt to being in the confinement of the metabolism pen. The training protocol was successful at introducing alpacas to the metabolism pens, and it did reduce the incidence of behavioral responses to stress as the training progressed. The success of the training protocol may be attributed to the progressive nature of the training, the tailoring of the protocol to suit alpacas, and the use of positive reinforcement. This study demonstrated that both animal welfare and the validity of the scientific outcomes could be maximized by the gradual training of experimental animals, thereby minimizing the stress imposed on the animals during experimental procedures.

Increasing brain angiotensin converting enzyme 2 activity decreases anxiety-like behavior in male mice by activating central Mas receptors

PubMed Central

Wang, Lei; de Kloet, Annette D.; Pati, Dipanwita; Hiller, Helmut; Smith, Justin A.; Pioquinto, David J.; Ludin, Jacob A.; Oh, S. Paul; Katovich, Michael J.; Frazier, Charles J.; Raizada, Mohan K.; Krause, Eric G.

2016-01-01

Over-activation of brain renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has been implicated in the etiology of anxiety disorders. Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE2) inhibits RAS activity by converting angiotensin II, the effector peptide of RAS, to angiotensin-(1-7), which activates Mas receptors (MasR). Whether increasing brain ACE2 activity reduces anxiety by stimulating central MasR is unknown. To test the hypothesis that increasing brain ACE2 activity reduces anxiety-like behavior via central MasR stimulation, we generated male mice overexpressing ACE2 (ACE2 KI mice) and wild type littermate controls (WT). ACE2 KI mice explored the open arms of the elevated plus maze (EPM) significantly more than WT, suggesting increasing ACE2 activity is anxiolytic. Central delivery of diminazene aceturate, an ACE2 activator, to C57BL/6 mice also reduced anxiety-like behavior in the EPM, but centrally administering ACE2 KI mice A-779, a MasR antagonist, abolished their anxiolytic phenotype, suggesting that ACE2 reduces anxiety-like behavior by activating central MasR. To identify the brain circuits mediating these effects, we measured Fos, a marker of neuronal activation, subsequent to EPM exposure and found that ACE2 KI mice had decreased Fos in the bed nucleus of stria terminalis but had increased Fos in the basolateral amygdala (BLA). Within the BLA, we determined that ~62% of GABAergic neurons contained MasR mRNA and expression of MasR mRNA was upregulated by ACE2 overexpression, suggesting that ACE2 may influence GABA neurotransmission within the BLA via MasR activation. Indeed, ACE2 overexpression was associated with increased frequency of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (indicative of presynaptic release of GABA) onto BLA pyramidal neurons and central infusion of A-779 eliminated this effect. Collectively, these results suggest that ACE2 may reduce anxiety-like behavior by activating central MasR that facilitate GABA release onto pyramidal neurons within the BLA. PMID

'Tied down'- the process of becoming bedridden through gradual local confinement.

PubMed

Zegelin, Angelika

2008-09-01

To raise awareness of the process of being bedridden, to create knowledge about the different causes and types of being bedridden, to highlight what exactly constitutes being bedridden, to describe which factors influence being bedridden. Being bedridden is a common phenomenon in nursing. However, there is no solid base of knowledge on reasons, types, development of and coping with this situation. The concept of being bedridden is applied in an arbitrary manner and the state of being bedridden is far from being clearly defined. A literature review revealed that only pathophysiological effects of this state are sufficiently explained. The aim of this study was to gain knowledge of the development of being confined to bed. Data collection and analysis were performed by using a Grounded Theory approach as developed by Strauss and Corbin. Thirty-two interviews with older, bedridden people were conducted. They were asked about their perspective on and their experience of the development of being confined to bed. Half of the interviewees lived in a nursing home, the others were cared for at home. 'Gradual local confinement' was identified as the core category. Becoming bedridden is a slow process by which the person is increasingly confined to one location. This development is related to an increasing need for support and to negative consequences, such as a pathology of immobility, narrowing of interests and loss of time. These consequences again are responsible for a downward spiral development. The study is the first research on the topic of being bedridden; no research in this field had been done before. There are some research results on bedrest, based on a purely medical perspective. The problem of being bedridden from the perspective of nursing is totally different. This study reveals phases of development and a range of factors influencing the problem of becoming bedridden. Many of these factors arise from the person and his/her interactional behaviour in the

Increase in Mechanical Resistance to Force in a Shear-Activated Protein

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Botello, Eric; Harris, Nolan; Choi, Huiwan; Zhou, Zhou; Bergeron, Angela; Dong, Jing-Fei; Kiang, Ching-Hwa

2009-03-01

von Willebrand factor (VWF) is the largest multimeric adhesion ligand found in human blood. Plasma VWF (pVWF) must be exposed to shear stress, like at sites of vascular injury, to be activated to bind platelets to induce blood clotting. In addition, adhesion activity of VWF is related to its polymer size, with the ultra-large form of VWF (ULVWF) being hyper-active, and forming fibers even without exposure to shear stress. We used the AFM to stretch pVWF, sheared VWF (sVWF) and ULVWF, and monitor the forces as a function of molecular extension. We showed a similar increase in force resistance to unfolding for sVWF and ULVWF when compared to pVWF. The increase in force is reduced when other molecules that are known to disrupt their fibril formation are present. Our results provide evidence that the common higher order structure of sVWF and ULVWF may affect the domain structure that causes difference in their adhesion activity compared to pVWF.

Developmental regulation of P-glycoprotein activity within thymocytes results in increased anti-HIV protease inhibitor activity.

PubMed

Haraguchi, Soichi; Ho, Sarah K; Morrow, Matthew; Goodenow, Maureen M; Sleasman, John W

2011-10-01

The thymus harbors HIV-1 and supports its replication. Treatment with PI-containing ART restores thymic output of naïve T cells. This study demonstrates that CXCR4-using WT viruses are more sensitive to PI in fetal thymcocytes than mature T cells with average IC(50) values for two PIs, RTV and IDV, of 1.5 nM (RTV) and 4.4 nM (IDV) in thymocytes versus 309.4 nM (RTV) and 27.3 nM (IDV) in mature T cells. P-gp activity, as measured using Rh123 efflux and quantitation of P-gp mRNA, increased with thymocyte maturation into CD4 and CD8 lineage T cells. P-gp activity is developmentally regulated in the thymus. Thymocytes developed increased levels of P-gp activity as maturation from DP to SP CD4 or CD8 T cells occurred, although CD4 T cells acquired activity more rapidly. Reduced P-gp activity in thymocytes is one mechanism for effectiveness of PI therapy in suppressing viral replication in the thymus and in reconstitution of naïve T cells, particularly among children receiving PI-containing ART.

Application of high hydrostatic pressure for increasing activity and stability of enzymes.

PubMed

Mozhaev, V V; Lange, R; Kudryashova, E V; Balny, C

1996-10-20

Elevated hydrostatic pressure has been used to increase catalytic activity and thermal stability of alpha-chymotrypsin (CT). For an anilide substrate, characterized by a negative value of the reaction activation volume (DeltaV( not equal)), an increase in pressure at 20 degrees C results in an exponential acceleration of the hydrolysis rate catalyzed by CT reaching a 6.5-fold increase in activity at 4700 atm (4.7 kbar). Due to a strong temperature dependence of DeltaV( not equal), the acceleration effect of high pressure becomes more pronounced at high temperatures. For example, at 50 degrees C, under a pressure of 3.6 kbar, CT shows activity which is more than 30 times higher than the activity at normal conditions (20 degrees C, 1 atm). At pressures of higher than 3.6 kbar, the enzymatic activity is decreased due to a pressure-induced denaturation.Elevated hydrostatic pressure is also efficient for increasing stability of CT against thermal denaturation. For example, at 55 degrees C, CT is almost instantaneously inactivated at atmospheric pressure, whereas under a pressure of 1.8 kbar CT retains its anilide-hydrolyzing activity during several dozen minutes. Additional stabilization can be achieved in the presence of glycerol, which is most effective for protection of CT at an intermediate concentration of 40% (v/v). There has been observed an additivity in stabilization effects of high pressure and glycerol: thermal inactivation of pressure-stabilized CT can be decelerated in a supplementary manner by addition of 40% (v/v) glycerol. The protection effect of glycerol on the catalytic activity and stability of CT becomes especially pronounced when both extreme factors of temperature and pressure reach critical values. For example, at approximately 55 degrees C and 4.7 kbar, enzymatic activity of CT in the presence of 40% (v/v) glycerol is severalfold higher than in aqueous buffer.The results of this study are discussed in terms of the hypotheses which explain the

Gradual caldera collapse at Bárdarbunga volcano, Iceland, regulated by lateral magma outflow.

PubMed

Gudmundsson, Magnús T; Jónsdóttir, Kristín; Hooper, Andrew; Holohan, Eoghan P; Halldórsson, Sæmundur A; Ófeigsson, Benedikt G; Cesca, Simone; Vogfjörd, Kristín S; Sigmundsson, Freysteinn; Högnadóttir, Thórdís; Einarsson, Páll; Sigmarsson, Olgeir; Jarosch, Alexander H; Jónasson, Kristján; Magnússon, Eyjólfur; Hreinsdóttir, Sigrún; Bagnardi, Marco; Parks, Michelle M; Hjörleifsdóttir, Vala; Pálsson, Finnur; Walter, Thomas R; Schöpfer, Martin P J; Heimann, Sebastian; Reynolds, Hannah I; Dumont, Stéphanie; Bali, Eniko; Gudfinnsson, Gudmundur H; Dahm, Torsten; Roberts, Matthew J; Hensch, Martin; Belart, Joaquín M C; Spaans, Karsten; Jakobsson, Sigurdur; Gudmundsson, Gunnar B; Fridriksdóttir, Hildur M; Drouin, Vincent; Dürig, Tobias; Aðalgeirsdóttir, Guðfinna; Riishuus, Morten S; Pedersen, Gro B M; van Boeckel, Tayo; Oddsson, Björn; Pfeffer, Melissa A; Barsotti, Sara; Bergsson, Baldur; Donovan, Amy; Burton, Mike R; Aiuppa, Alessandro

2016-07-15

Large volcanic eruptions on Earth commonly occur with a collapse of the roof of a crustal magma reservoir, forming a caldera. Only a few such collapses occur per century, and the lack of detailed observations has obscured insight into the mechanical interplay between collapse and eruption. We use multiparameter geophysical and geochemical data to show that the 110-square-kilometer and 65-meter-deep collapse of Bárdarbunga caldera in 2014-2015 was initiated through withdrawal of magma, and lateral migration through a 48-kilometers-long dike, from a 12-kilometers deep reservoir. Interaction between the pressure exerted by the subsiding reservoir roof and the physical properties of the subsurface flow path explain the gradual, near-exponential decline of both collapse rate and the intensity of the 180-day-long eruption. Copyright © 2016, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Effects of a gradually increased load of fish waste silage in co-digestion with cow manure on methane production.

PubMed

Solli, Linn; Bergersen, Ove; Sørheim, Roald; Briseid, Tormod

2014-08-01

This study examined the effects of an increased load of nitrogen-rich organic material on anaerobic digestion and methane production. Co-digestion of fish waste silage (FWS) and cow manure (CM) was studied in two parallel laboratory-scale (8L effective volume) semi-continuous stirred tank reactors (designated R1 and R2). A reactor fed with CM only (R0) was used as control. The reactors were operated in the mesophilic range (37°C) with a hydraulic retention time of 30 days, and the entire experiment lasted for 450 days. The rate of organic loading was raised by increasing the content of FWS in the feed stock. During the experiment, the amount (volume%) of FWS was increased stepwise in the following order: 3% - 6% - 13% - 16%, and 19%. Measurements of methane production, and analysis of volatile fatty acids, ammonium and pH in the effluents were carried out. The highest methane production from co-digestion of FWS and CM was 0.400 L CH4 gVS(-1), obtained during the period with loading of 16% FWS in R2. Compared to anaerobic digestion of CM only, the methane production was increased by 100% at most, when FWS was added to the feed stock. The biogas processes failed in R1 and R2 during the periods, with loadings of 16% and 19% FWS, respectively. In both reactors, the biogas processes failed due to overloading and accumulation of ammonia and volatile fatty acids. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Increased RNA-Induced Silencing Complex (RISC) Activity Contributes to Hepatocellular Carcinoma

PubMed Central

Yoo, Byoung Kwon; Santhekadur, Prasanna K.; Gredler, Rachel; Chen, Dong; Emdad, Luni; Bhutia, Sujit; Pannell, Lewis; Fisher, Paul B.; Sarkar, Devanand

2011-01-01

There is virtually no effective treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and novel targets need to be identified to develop effective treatment. We recently documented that the oncogene Astrocyte elevated gene-1 (AEG-1) plays a seminal role in hepatocarcinogenesis. Employing yeast two-hybrid assay and co-immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry we identified Staphylococcal nuclease domain containing 1 (SND1), a nuclease in the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) facilitating RNAi-mediated gene silencing, as an AEG-1 interacting protein. Co-immunoprecipitation and co-localization studies confirmed that AEG-1 is also a component of RISC and both AEG-1 and SND1 are required for optimum RISC activity facilitating siRNA and miRNA-mediated silencing of luciferase reporter gene. In 109 human HCC samples SND1 was overexpressed in ∼74% cases compared to normal liver. Correspondingly, significantly higher RISC activity was observed in human HCC cells compared to immortal normal hepatocytes. Increased RISC activity, conferred by AEG-1 or SND1, resulted in increased degradation of tumor suppressor mRNAs that are target of oncomiRs. Inhibition of enzymatic activity of SND1 significantly inhibited proliferation of human HCC cells. As a corollary, stable overexpression of SND1 augmented and siRNA-mediated inhibition of SND1 abrogated growth of human HCC cells in vitro and in vivo thus revealing a potential role of SND1 in hepatocarcinogenesis. Conclusion We unravel a novel mechanism that overexpression of AEG-1 and SND1 leading to increased RISC activity might contribute to hepatocarcinogenesis. Targeted inhibition of SND1 enzymatic activity might be developed as an effective therapy for HCC. PMID:21520169

Delayed initiation but not gradual advancement of enteral formula feeding reduces the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm pigs

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Enteral formula feeding is a risk factor for necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants, yet studies are conflicting regarding the safest timing for introduction and advancement of feeds. Our aim was to test the effects of early vs. late initiation and abrupt vs. gradual advancement of ent...

Gradual Phenotype Development in Huntington Disease Transgenic Minipig Model at 24 Months of Age.

PubMed

Vidinská, Daniela; Vochozková, Petra; Šmatlíková, Petra; Ardan, Taras; Klíma, Jiří; Juhás, Štefan; Juhásová, Jana; Bohuslavová, Božena; Baxa, Monika; Valeková, Ivona; Motlík, Jan; Ellederová, Zdenka

2018-06-05

Huntington disease (HD) is an incurable neurodegenerative disease caused by the expansion of a polyglutamine sequence in a gene encoding the huntingtin (Htt) protein, which is expressed in almost all cells of the body. In addition to small animal models, new therapeutic approaches (including gene therapy) require large animal models as their large brains are a more realistic model for translational research. In this study, we describe phenotype development in transgenic minipigs (TgHD) expressing the N-terminal part of mutated human Htt at the age of 24 months. TgHD and wild-type littermates were compared. Western blot analysis and subcellular fractionation of different tissues was used to determine the fragmentation of Htt. Immunohistochemistry and optical analysis of coronal sections measuring aggregates, Htt expression, neuroinflammation, and myelination was applied. Furthermore, the expression of Golgi protein acyl-CoA binding domain containing 3 (ACBD3) was analyzed. We found age-correlated Htt fragmentation in the brain. Among various tissues studied, the testes displayed the highest fragmentation, with Htt fragments detectable even in cell nuclei. Also, Golgi protein ACBD3 was upregulated in testes, which is in agreement with previously reported testicular degeneration in TgHD minipigs. Nevertheless, the TgHD-specific mutated Htt fragments were also present in the cytoplasm of striatum and cortex cells. Moreover, microglial cells were activated and myelination was slightly decreased, suggesting the development of a premanifest stage of neurodegeneration in TgHD minipigs. The gradual development of a neurodegenerative phenotype, ac-companied with testicular degeneration, is observed in 24- month-old TgHD minipigs. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Effects of heavy metal Cd pollution on microbial activities in soil.

PubMed

Shi, Weilin; Ma, Xiying

2017-12-23

Heavy metal contamination of soil occurs when heavy metals are introduced to soil through human activities, leading to the gradual deterioration of the ecology and environment. Microorganism activity reflects the intensity of various biochemical reactions in soil, and changes in it reflect the level of heavy metal pollution affecting the soil. The effects were studied of heavy metal Cd on the microbial activity of soil at different concentrations by investigating the respiratory intensity, urease activity, and catalase activity in forest soil and garden soil. The results showed that the respiratory intensity, urease and catalase activities in the garden soil were all higher than in the forest soil. Cd has obvious inhibitory effects on microbial activities. The three parameters exhibited a downward trend with increasing concentrations of Cd. Catalase activity increased when the mass concentration of Cd reached 1.0 mg/kg, indicating that low concentrations of Cd can promote the activity of some microorganisms. Respiratory intensity and urease activity also increased when the concentration reached 10.0 mg/kg, showing that respiratory intensity and urease activity have strong response mechanisms to adverse conditions. The effective state of Cd in soil, as well as inhibition of microbial activity, decreased with incubation time.

Reduced Aβ secretion by human neurons under conditions of strongly increased BACE activity.

PubMed

Scholz, Diana; Chernyshova, Yana; Ückert, Anna-Katharina; Leist, Marcel

2018-05-27

The initial step in the amyloidogenic cascade of amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing is catalyzed by beta-site APP-cleaving enzyme (BACE), and this protease has increased activities in affected areas of Alzheimer's disease brains. We hypothesized that altered APP processing, due to augmented BACE activity, would affect the actions of direct and indirect BACE inhibitors. We therefore compared postmitotic human neurons (LUHMES) with their BACE-overexpressing counterparts (BLUHMES). Although β-cleavage of APP was strongly increased in BLUHMES, they produced less full-length and truncated amyloid beta (Aβ) than LUHMES. Moreover, low concentrations of BACE inhibitors decreased cellular BACE activity as expected, but increased Aβ 1-40 levels. Several other approaches to modulate BACE activity led to a similar, apparently paradoxical, behavior. For instance, reduction of intracellular acidification by bepridil increased Aβ production in parallel with decreased BACE activity. In contrast to BLUHMES, the respective control cells (LUHMES or BLUHMES with catalytically inactive BACE) showed conventional pharmacological responses. Other non-canonical neurochemical responses (so-called 'rebound effects') are well-documented for the Aβ pathway, especially for γ-secretase: a partial block of its activity leads to an increased Aβ secretion by some cell types. We therefore compared LUHMES and BLUHMES regarding rebound effects of γ-secretase inhibitors and found an Aβ rise in LUHMES but not in BLUHMES. Thus, different cellular factors are responsible for the γ-secretase- vs. BACE-related Aβ rebound. We conclude that increased BACE activity, possibly accompanied by an altered cellular localization pattern, can dramatically influence Aβ generation in human neurons and affect pharmacological responses to secretase inhibitors. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Is Increasing Coal Seam Gas Well Development Activity Associated with Increasing Hospitalisation Rates in Queensland, Australia? An Exploratory Analysis 1995–2011

PubMed Central

Werner, Angela K.; Cameron, Cate M.; Watt, Kerrianne; Vink, Sue; Jagals, Paul; Page, Andrew

2017-01-01

The majority of Australia’s coal seam gas (CSG) reserves are in Queensland, where the industry has expanded rapidly in recent years. Despite concerns, health data have not been examined alongside CSG development. This study examined hospitalisation rates as a function of CSG development activity in Queensland, during the period 1995–2011. Admissions data were examined with CSG well numbers, which served as a proxy for CSG development activity. Time series models were used to assess changes in hospitalisation rates for periods of “low”, “medium”, “high”, and “intense” activity compared to a period of “very low” activity, adjusting for covariates. “All-cause” hospitalisation rates increased monotonically with increasing gas well development activity in females (324.0 to 390.3 per 1000 persons) and males (294.2 to 335.4 per 1000 persons). Hospitalisation rates for “Blood/immune” conditions generally increased for both sexes. Female and male hospitalisation rates for “Circulatory” conditions decreased with increasing CSG activity. Hospitalisation rates were generally low for reproductive and birth outcomes; no clear associations were observed. This study showed some outcomes were associated with increasing CSG development activity. However, as a condition of data access, the population and outcomes were aggregated to a broad geographic study area rather than using higher geographic resolution data. Higher resolution data, as well as other data sources, should be explored. Further research should be conducted with an expanded time period to determine if these trends continue as the industry grows. PMID:28524113

Decreasing excessive media usage while increasing physical activity: a single-subject research study.

PubMed

Larwin, Karen H; Larwin, David A

2008-11-01

The Kaiser Family Foundation released a report entitled Kids and Media Use in the United States that concluded that children's use of media--including television, computers, Internet, video games, and phones--may be one of the primary contributor's to the poor fitness and obesity of many of today's adolescents. The present study examines the potential of increasing physical activity and decreasing media usage in a 14-year-old adolescent female by making time spent on the Internet and/or cell phone contingent on physical activity. Results of this investigation indicate that requiring the participant to earn her media-usage time did correspond with an increase in physical activity and a decrease in media-usage time relative to baseline measures. Five weeks after cessation of the intervention, the participant's new level of physical activity was still being maintained. One year after the study, the participant's level of physical activity continued to increase.

Testicular histomorphometry and the proliferative and apoptotic activities of the seminiferous epithelium in Syrian hamster during spontaneous recrudescence after exposure to short photoperiod.

PubMed

Martínez-Hernández, Jesús; Seco-Rovira, Vicente; Beltrán-Frutos, Ester; Ferrer, Concepción; Canteras, Manuel; Sánchez-Huertas, María Del Mar; Pastor, Luis Miguel

2018-05-21

Syrian hamsters are photoperiodic rodents in which reproduction, including testicular function, is stimulated by long photoperiod exposure and curtailed by exposure to a short photoperiod. The objectives of this study were to characterize the testis histomorphometrically and to determine the role of the proliferation and apoptosis phenomena in the recovery of the seminiferous epithelium during spontaneous recrudescence after exposure to short photoperiod. The study was performed using conventional light microscopy, proliferating cell nuclear antigen and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)-mediated dUTP in situ nick end labelling staining, image analysis software, and transmission electron microscopy in three recrudescence groups: initial recrudescence (IR), advanced recrudescence (AR) and total recrudescence (TR). The results morphometrically pointed to the gradual recovery of the testicular and tubular volumes, as well as of the seminiferous epithelium. Among the IR and AR groups, the increase in testicular and tubular volumes was accompanied by an increase in tubular diameter and length, with an increase in interstitial volume. From AR to TR, there was an increase in the tubular and total volumes, but, in this case, with a gradual increase in tubular diameter. Recovery of the seminiferous epithelium was accompanied by changes in apoptosis and proliferation activities. The first decreased halfway through the process, and the second remained higher than the control levels throughout the recrudescence stage. Alterations in the spermatozoa were ultrastructurally observed, which indicated that spermiogenesis was not yet completely normal. In conclusion, spontaneous testicular recrudescence in Syrian hamster comprises two histomorphometrical phases: the first related to an increase in tubular length and diameter and interstitial volume and the second depending principally on the gradual increase in tubular diameter. The restoration of the seminiferous

Electron trapping in evolving coronal structures during a large gradual hard X-ray/radio burst

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bruggmann, G.; Vilmer, N.; Klein, K.-L.; Kane, S. R.

1994-01-01

Gradual hard X-ray/radio bursts are characterized by their long duration, smooth time profile, time delays between peaks at different hard X-ray energies and microwaves, and radiation from extended sources in the low and middle corona. Their characteristic properties have been ascribed to the dynamic evolution of the accelerated electrons in coronal magnetic traps or to the separate acceleration of high-energy electrons in a 'second step' process. The information available so far was drawn from quality considerations of time profiles or even only from the common occurrence of emissions in different spectral ranges. This paper presents model computations of the temporal evolution of hard X-ray and microwave spectra, together with a qualitative discussion of radio lightcurves over a wide spectral range, and metric imaging observations. The basis hypothesis investigated is that the peculiar 'gradual' features can be related to the dynamical evolution of electrons injected over an extended time interval in a coronal trap, with electrons up to relativistic energies being injected simultaneously. The analyzed event (26 April. 1981) is particularly challenging to this hypothesis because of the long time delays between peaks at different X-ray energies and microwave frequencies. The observations are shown to be consistent with the hypothesis, provided that the electrons lose their energy by Coulomb collisions and possibly betatron deceleration. The access of the electrons to different coronal structures varies in the course of the event. The evolution and likely destabilization of part of the coronal plasma-magnetic field configuration is of crucial influence in determining the access to these structures and possibly the dynamical evolution of the trapped electrons through betatron deceleration in the late phase of the event.

The effect of increasing autonomy through choice on young children’s physical activity behavior

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Increasing autonomy by manipulating the choice of available physical activity options in a laboratory setting can increase physical activity in older children and adults. However, the effect of manipulating the number of physically active choices has yet to be examined in young children in a gymnas...

Serotonin increases synaptic activity in olfactory bulb glomeruli

PubMed Central

Brill, Julia; Shao, Zuoyi; Puche, Adam C.; Wachowiak, Matt

2016-01-01

Serotoninergic fibers densely innervate olfactory bulb glomeruli, the first sites of synaptic integration in the olfactory system. Acting through 5HT2A receptors, serotonin (5HT) directly excites external tufted cells (ETCs), key excitatory glomerular neurons, and depolarizes some mitral cells (MCs), the olfactory bulb's main output neurons. We further investigated 5HT action on MCs and determined its effects on the two major classes of glomerular interneurons: GABAergic/dopaminergic short axon cells (SACs) and GABAergic periglomerular cells (PGCs). In SACs, 5HT evoked a depolarizing current mediated by 5HT2C receptors but did not significantly impact spike rate. 5HT had no measurable direct effect in PGCs. Serotonin increased spontaneous excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs and sIPSCs) in PGCs and SACs. Increased sEPSCs were mediated by 5HT2A receptors, suggesting that they are primarily due to enhanced excitatory drive from ETCs. Increased sIPSCs resulted from elevated excitatory drive onto GABAergic interneurons and augmented GABA release from SACs. Serotonin-mediated GABA release from SACs was action potential independent and significantly increased miniature IPSC frequency in glomerular neurons. When focally applied to a glomerulus, 5HT increased MC spontaneous firing greater than twofold but did not increase olfactory nerve-evoked responses. Taken together, 5HT modulates glomerular network activity in several ways: 1) it increases ETC-mediated feed-forward excitation onto MCs, SACs, and PGCs; 2) it increases inhibition of glomerular interneurons; 3) it directly triggers action potential-independent GABA release from SACs; and 4) these network actions increase spontaneous MC firing without enhancing responses to suprathreshold sensory input. This may enhance MC sensitivity while maintaining dynamic range. PMID:26655822

Gradual Reduction of Chronic Fracture Dislocation of the Ankle Using Ilizarov/Taylor Spatial Frame

PubMed Central

Deland, Jonathan T.; Rozbruch, S. Robert

2010-01-01

With the advances in trauma care, chronic fracture dislocation of the ankle is not a condition commonly seen in modern clinical practice. When encountered, it can be difficult to preserve the ankle joint. We present a case of a 65-year-old female, with a chronic fracture dislocation of the ankle. The ankle joint was subluxated with posterior translation of the talus, displacement of the posterior malleolus fragment, and a distal fibula fracture. A minimally traumatic approach was devised to treat this complex fracture dislocation which included gradual reduction of the ankle with a Taylor spatial frame, followed by stabilization with internal fixation and removal of the frame. Bony union and restoration of the ankle joint congruency was achieved. PMID:22294963

Carbon-Degrading Enzyme Activities Stimulated by Increased Nutrient Availability in Arctic Tundra Soils

PubMed Central

Koyama, Akihiro; Wallenstein, Matthew D.; Simpson, Rodney T.; Moore, John C.

2013-01-01

Climate-induced warming of the Arctic tundra is expected to increase nutrient availability to soil microbes, which in turn may accelerate soil organic matter (SOM) decomposition. We increased nutrient availability via fertilization to investigate the microbial response via soil enzyme activities. Specifically, we measured potential activities of seven enzymes at four temperatures in three soil profiles (organic, organic/mineral interface, and mineral) from untreated native soils and from soils which had been fertilized with nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) since 1989 (23 years) and 2006 (six years). Fertilized plots within the 1989 site received annual additions of 10 g N⋅m-2⋅year-1 and 5 g P⋅m-2⋅year-1. Within the 2006 site, two fertilizer regimes were established – one in which plots received 5 g N⋅m-2⋅year-1 and 2.5 g P⋅m-2⋅year-1 and one in which plots received 10 g N⋅m-2⋅year-1 and 5 g P⋅m-2⋅year-1. The fertilization treatments increased activities of enzymes hydrolyzing carbon (C)-rich compounds but decreased phosphatase activities, especially in the organic soils. Activities of two enzymes that degrade N-rich compounds were not affected by the fertilization treatments. The fertilization treatments increased ratios of enzyme activities degrading C-rich compounds to those for N-rich compounds or phosphate, which could lead to changes in SOM chemistry over the long term and to losses of soil C. Accelerated SOM decomposition caused by increased nutrient availability could significantly offset predicted increased C fixation via stimulated net primary productivity in Arctic tundra ecosystems. PMID:24204773

The Influence of Neighborhood Crime on Increases in Physical Activity during a Pilot Physical Activity Intervention in Children.

PubMed

Broyles, Stephanie T; Myers, Candice A; Drazba, Kathryn T; Marker, Arwen M; Church, Timothy S; Newton, Robert L

2016-04-01

The purpose of this study was to examine whether neighborhood crime moderated the response (increases in steps) to a pilot intervention to increase physical activity in children. Twenty-seven insufficiently active children aged 6-10 years (mean age = 8.7 years; 56 % female; 59 % African American) were randomly assigned to an intensive intervention group (IIG) or minimal intervention group (MIG). Change in average daily number of steps from baseline was regressed against an index of neighborhood crime in a multilevel repeated-measures model that included a propensity score to reduce confounding. Safer neighborhoods were associated with higher increases in steps during the pilot intervention (interaction p = 0.008). Children in the IIG living in low-crime neighborhoods significantly increased their physical activity (5275 ± 1040 steps/day) while those living in high-crime neighborhoods did not (1118 ± 1007) (p for difference = 0.046). In the IIG, the increase in daily steps was highly correlated with neighborhood crime (r = 0.58, p = 0.04). These findings suggest the need for physical activity interventions to account for participants' environments in their design and/or delivery. To promote healthy behaviors in less-supportive environments, future studies should seek to understand how environments modify intervention response and to identify mediators of the relationship between environment and intervention.

Changes in baseball batters' brain activity with increased pitch choice.

PubMed

Ryu, Kwangmin; Kim, Jingu; Ali, Asif; Kim, Woojong; Radlo, Steven J

2015-09-01

In baseball, one factor necessary for batters to decide whether to swing or not depends on what type of pitch is thrown. Oftentimes batters will look for their pitch (i.e., waiting for a fastball). In general, when a pitcher has many types of pitches in his arsenal, batters will have greater difficulty deciding upon the pitch thrown. Little research has been investigated the psychophysiology of a batters decision-making processes. Therefore, the primary purpose of this study was to determine how brain activation changes according to an increase in the number of alternatives (NA) available. A total of 15 male college baseball players participated in this study. The stimuli used in this experiment were video clips of a right-handed pitcher throwing fastball, curve, and slider pitches. The task was to press a button after selecting the fastball as the target stimulus from two pitch choices (fastball and curve), and then from three possibilities (fastball, curve, and slider). Functional and anatomic image scanning magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) runs took 4 and 5[Formula: see text]min, respectively. According to our analysis, the right precentral gyrus, left medial frontal gyrus, and right fusiform gyrus were activated when the NA was one. The supplementary motor areas (SMA) and primary motor cortex were activated when there were two alternatives to choose from and the inferior orbitofrontal gyrus was specifically activated with three alternatives. Contrary to our expectations, the NA was not a critical factor influencing the activation of related decision making areas when the NA was compared against one another. These findings highlight that specific brain areas related to decision making were activated as the NA increased.

Carnosine: effect on aging-induced increase in brain regional monoamine oxidase-A activity.

PubMed

Banerjee, Soumyabrata; Poddar, Mrinal K

2015-03-01

Aging is a natural biological process associated with several neurological disorders along with the biochemical changes in brain. Aim of the present investigation is to study the effect of carnosine (0.5-2.5μg/kg/day, i.t. for 21 consecutive days) on aging-induced changes in brain regional (cerebral cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus and pons-medulla) mitochondrial monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A) activity with its kinetic parameters. The results of the present study are: (1) The brain regional mitochondrial MAO-A activity and their kinetic parameters (except in Km of pons-medulla) were significantly increased with the increase of age (4-24 months), (2) Aging-induced increase of brain regional MAO-A activity including its Vmax were attenuated with higher dosages of carnosine (1.0-2.5μg/kg/day) and restored toward the activity that observed in young, though its lower dosage (0.5μg/kg/day) were ineffective in these brain regional MAO-A activity, (3) Carnosine at higher dosage in young rats, unlike aged rats significantly inhibited all the brain regional MAO-A activity by reducing their only Vmax excepting cerebral cortex, where Km was also significantly enhanced. These results suggest that carnosine attenuated the aging-induced increase of brain regional MAO-A activity by attenuating its kinetic parameters and restored toward the results of MAO-A activity that observed in corresponding brain regions of young rats. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd and the Japan Neuroscience Society. All rights reserved.

Increased sales and thefts of candy as a function of sales promotion activities: Preliminary findings.

PubMed

Carter, N; Kindstedt, A; Melin, L

1995-01-01

We used an A-B-A design to evaluate the effects of two commonly used promotional activities-price reduction and increased exposure, in combination and separately-on sales and thefts of candy at a grocery store. The combination of activities and the increased exposure condition produced the greatest increases in sales. The combination of activities was also associated with the greatest increase in thefts.

Increased RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) activity contributes to hepatocellular carcinoma.

PubMed

Yoo, Byoung Kwon; Santhekadur, Prasanna K; Gredler, Rachel; Chen, Dong; Emdad, Luni; Bhutia, Sujit; Pannell, Lewis; Fisher, Paul B; Sarkar, Devanand

2011-05-01

There is virtually no effective treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and novel targets need to be identified to develop effective treatment. We recently documented that the oncogene Astrocyte elevated gene-1 (AEG-1) plays a seminal role in hepatocarcinogenesis. Employing yeast two-hybrid assay and coimmunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry, we identified staphylococcal nuclease domain containing 1 (SND1), a nuclease in the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) facilitating RNAi-mediated gene silencing, as an AEG-1 interacting protein. Coimmunoprecipitation and colocalization studies confirmed that AEG-1 is also a component of RISC and both AEG-1 and SND1 are required for optimum RISC activity facilitating small interfering RNA (siRNA) and micro RNA (miRNA)-mediated silencing of luciferase reporter gene. In 109 human HCC samples SND1 was overexpressed in ≈74% cases compared to normal liver. Correspondingly, significantly higher RISC activity was observed in human HCC cells compared to immortal normal hepatocytes. Increased RISC activity, conferred by AEG-1 or SND1, resulted in increased degradation of tumor suppressor messenger RNAs (mRNAs) that are target of oncomiRs. Inhibition of enzymatic activity of SND1 significantly inhibited proliferation of human HCC cells. As a corollary, stable overexpression of SND1 augmented and siRNA-mediated inhibition of SND1 abrogated growth of human HCC cells in vitro and in vivo, thus revealing a potential role of SND1 in hepatocarcinogenesis. We unravel a novel mechanism that overexpression of AEG-1 and SND1 leading to increased RISC activity might contribute to hepatocarcinogenesis. Targeted inhibition of SND1 enzymatic activity might be developed as an effective therapy for HCC. Copyright © 2011 American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.

ALDH2 Activator Inhibits Increased Myocardial Infarction Injury by Nitroglycerin Tolerance

PubMed Central

Sun, Lihan; Ferreira, Julio Cesar Batista; Mochly-Rosen, Daria

2012-01-01

Nitroglycerin, which helps impaired cardiac function as it is converted to nitric oxide, is used worldwide to treat patients with various ischemic and congestive cardiac diseases, including angina pectoris. Nevertheless, after continuous treatment, the benefits of nitroglycerin are limited by the development of tolerance to the drug. Nitroglycerin tolerance is a result of inactivation of aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2), an enzyme essential for cardioprotection in animals subjected to myocardial infarction (MI). Here we tested the hypothesis that the tolerance that develops as a result of sustained nitroglycerin treatment increases cardiac injury by subsequent MI. In a rat model of MI, 16 hours of prior, sustained nitroglycerin treatment (7.2 mg/kg/day) resulted in infarcts that were twice as large as those in untreated control animals and in diminished cardiac function at 3 days and 2 weeks after the MI. We also sought to identify a potential treatment to protect against this increased cardiac damage. Nitroglycerin inhibited ALDH2 activity in vitro, an effect that was blocked by Alda-1, an activator of ALDH2. Co-administration of Alda-1 (16 mg/kg/day) with the nitroglycerin prevented the nitroglycerin-induced increase in cardiac dysfunction after MI in rats, at least in part by enhancing metabolism of reactive aldehyde adducts that impair normal protein functions. If our animal studies showing that nitroglycerin tolerance increases cardiac injury upon ischemic insult are corroborated in humans, activators of ALDH2 such as Alda-1 may help to protect MI patients from this nitroglycerin-induced increase in cardiac injury, while maintaining the cardiac benefits of the increased nitric oxide concentrations produced by nitroglycerin. PMID:22049071

Increased physical activity ameliorates high fat diet-induced bone resorption in mice

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

It has been recognized that mechanical stresses associated with physical activity (PA) have beneficial effects on increasing bone mineral density (BMD) and improving bone quality. On the other hand, high fat diet (HFD) and obesity increase bone marrow adiposity leading to increased excretion of pro-...

Plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition of wear resistant gradual a-Si1-x:Cx:H coatings on nickel-titanium for biomedical applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niermann, Benedikt; Böke, Marc; Schauer, Janine-Christina; Winter, Jörg

2010-03-01

Plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition has been used to deposit thin films with gradual transitions from silicon to carbon on Cu, Ni, stainless steel, and NiTi. Thus show low stress, elasticity, and wear resistance with excellent adhesion on all metals under investigation. Already at low Si concentrations of 10 at. % the intrinsic stress is considerably reduced compared to pure diamondlike carbon (DLC) films. The deposition process is controlled by optical emission spectroscopy. This technique has been applied to monitor the growth precursors and to correlate them with the film composition. The compositions of the films were determined by Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy and XPS measurements. Due to the elastic properties of the gradual transition and the excellent biocompatibility of DLC, the described film systems present a useful coating for biomedical applications.

Pharmacological Activation of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor {Delta} Increases Sphingomyelin Synthase Activity in THP-1 Macrophage-Derived Foam Cell.

PubMed

Mou, Dongsheng; Yang, Hua; Qu, Changhua; Chen, Juan; Zhang, Chaogui

2016-08-01

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear receptors, which mediate glucose and lipid homeostasis by regulating the expression of a large number of transcription factors. Sphingomyelin synthase (SMS) is a key enzyme in the synthesis of sphingomyelin (SM), and its expression and activity have been reported to be associated with atherosclerosis (AS). Although there have been many functional PPAR and SMS studies on atherosclerosis in recent years, few have investigated the correlation between the activation of PPARδ and the activity of SMS. In his study, macrophage-induced foam cells were utilized to model important pathological changes that occur in AS. The influence of PPARδ agonism by GW501516 on SMS and its product molecule SM were measured. Results indicated that the activation of PPARδ was correlated in a positive manner with the activity of SMS2, and the content of SM was dose dependently increased by GW501516. Together, this study represents the first to suggest that PPARδ activation may be a potential risk of AS through enhancing activity of SMS2.

Community wide interventions for increasing physical activity.

PubMed

Baker, Philip Ra; Francis, Daniel P; Soares, Jesus; Weightman, Alison L; Foster, Charles

2011-04-13

Multi-strategic community wide interventions for physical activity are increasingly popular but their ability to achieve population level improvements is unknown. To evaluate the effects of community wide, multi-strategic interventions upon population levels of physical activity. We searched the Cochrane Public Health Group Specialised Register, The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, MEDLINE in Process, EMBASE, CINAHL, LILACS, PsycINFO, ASSIA, The British Nursing Index, Chinese CNKI databases, EPPI Centre (DoPHER, TRoPHI), ERIC, HMIC, Sociological Abstracts, SPORTDiscus, Transport Database and Web of Science (Science Citation Index, Social Sciences Citation Index, Conference Proceedings Citation Index). We also scanned websites of the EU Platform on Diet, Physical Activity and Health; Health-Evidence.ca; the International Union for Health Promotion and Education; the NIHR Coordinating Centre for Health Technology (NCCHTA) and NICE and SIGN guidelines. Reference lists of all relevant systematic reviews, guidelines and primary studies were followed up. We contacted experts in the field from the National Obesity Observatory Oxford, Oxford University; Queensland Health, Queensland University of Technology, the University of Central Queensland; the University of Tennessee and Washington University; and handsearched six relevant journals. The searches were last updated to the end of November 2009 and were not restricted by language or publication status. Cluster randomised controlled trials, randomised controlled trials (RCT), quasi-experimental designs which used a control population for comparison, interrupted time-series (ITS) studies, and prospective controlled cohort studies (PCCS) were included. Only studies with a minimum six-month follow up from the start of the intervention to measurement of outcomes were included. Community wide interventions had to comprise at least two broad strategies aimed at physical activity for the whole population. Studies which randomised

Integrative exercise and lifestyle intervention increases leisure-time activity in breast cancer patients.

PubMed

Casla, Soraya; Hojman, Pernille; Cubedo, Ricardo; Calvo, Isabel; Sampedro, Javier; Barakat, Ruben

2014-11-01

Physical activity has been demonstrated to increase survival in breast cancer patients, but few breast cancer patients meet the general recommendations for physical activity. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate if a supervised integrated counseling and group-based exercise program could increase leisure-time activity in women with breast cancer. This pilot project, designed as a single-arm study with pre-post testing, consisted of 24 classes of combined aerobic and strength exercise training as well as classes on dietary and health behavior. A total of 48 women with breast cancer who were undergoing or had recently completed anticancer treatment completed the study. Leisure-time physical activity, grip strength, functional capacity, quality of life (QoL), and depression were assessed at baseline, after intervention, and at the 12-week follow-up after intervention. The breast cancer patients increased their leisure-time physical activity (P = .004), global strength (P = .004), functional capacity (P = .001), and QoL (P = .009), and their depression score (P = .004) significantly decreased. These improvements were independent of whether the patients were in ongoing therapy or had completed their treatment. This integrated intervention may produce lifestyle changes in breast cancer patients and survivors using the teachable moment to increase their leisure-time physical activity and, thereby, their QoL. © The Author(s) 2014.

Evaluation of a faculty development program aimed at increasing residents' active learning in lectures.

PubMed

Desselle, Bonnie C; English, Robin; Hescock, George; Hauser, Andrea; Roy, Melissa; Yang, Tong; Chauvin, Sheila W

2012-12-01

Active engagement in the learning process is important to enhance learners' knowledge acquisition and retention and the development of their thinking skills. This study evaluated whether a 1-hour faculty development workshop increased the use of active teaching strategies and enhanced residents' active learning and thinking. Faculty teaching in a pediatrics residency participated in a 1-hour workshop (intervention) approximately 1 month before a scheduled lecture. Participants' responses to a preworkshop/postworkshop questionnaire targeted self-efficacy (confidence) for facilitating active learning and thinking and providing feedback about workshop quality. Trained observers assessed each lecture (3-month baseline phase and 3-month intervention phase) using an 8-item scale for use of active learning strategies and a 7-item scale for residents' engagement in active learning. Observers also assessed lecturer-resident interactions and the extent to which residents were asked to justify their answers. Responses to the workshop questionnaire (n  =  32/34; 94%) demonstrated effectiveness and increased confidence. Faculty in the intervention phase demonstrated increased use of interactive teaching strategies for 6 items, with 5 reaching statistical significance (P ≤ .01). Residents' active learning behaviors in lectures were higher in the intervention arm for all 7 items, with 5 reaching statistical significance. Faculty in the intervention group demonstrated increased use of higher-order questioning (P  =  .02) and solicited justifications for answers (P  =  .01). A 1-hour faculty development program increased faculty use of active learning strategies and residents' engagement in active learning during resident core curriculum lectures.

Spiroperidol, but not eticlopride or aripiprazole, produces gradual increases in descent latencies in the bar test in rats.

PubMed

Rocca, Jeffery F; Lister, Joshua G; Beninger, Richard J

2017-02-01

Rats repeatedly exposed to the bar test following injections with a dopamine D2-like receptor antagonist such as haloperidol show increased descent latencies, suggesting that contextual stimuli may lose their ability to elicit approach and other responses. Here, we showed that rats took progressively longer to initiate descent from a horizontal bar across sessions following daily intraperitoneal treatment (paired group) with the D2-like receptor antagonist, spiroperidol (0.125 and 0.25 mg/kg), but not in the control group that received 0.25 mg/kg in their home cage and testing following saline. When both groups were tested following an injection of spiroperidol or following saline, a sensitized and a conditioned increase in descent latency, respectively, were observed in the paired but not in the unpaired group. No evidence of sensitization or conditioning was found with the substituted benzamide compound, eticlopride (0.15-0.5 mg/kg), or the D2-like receptor partial agonist, aripiprazole (0.25-0.5 mg/kg). The different effects of these agents on learning may be related to different region-specific affinities for dopamine receptors or differences in receptor dissociation profiles. We suggest that the behavioural changes observed in spiroperidol-treated rats may reflect inverse incentive learning.

Serotonin increases synaptic activity in olfactory bulb glomeruli.

PubMed

Brill, Julia; Shao, Zuoyi; Puche, Adam C; Wachowiak, Matt; Shipley, Michael T

2016-03-01

Serotoninergic fibers densely innervate olfactory bulb glomeruli, the first sites of synaptic integration in the olfactory system. Acting through 5HT2A receptors, serotonin (5HT) directly excites external tufted cells (ETCs), key excitatory glomerular neurons, and depolarizes some mitral cells (MCs), the olfactory bulb's main output neurons. We further investigated 5HT action on MCs and determined its effects on the two major classes of glomerular interneurons: GABAergic/dopaminergic short axon cells (SACs) and GABAergic periglomerular cells (PGCs). In SACs, 5HT evoked a depolarizing current mediated by 5HT2C receptors but did not significantly impact spike rate. 5HT had no measurable direct effect in PGCs. Serotonin increased spontaneous excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs and sIPSCs) in PGCs and SACs. Increased sEPSCs were mediated by 5HT2A receptors, suggesting that they are primarily due to enhanced excitatory drive from ETCs. Increased sIPSCs resulted from elevated excitatory drive onto GABAergic interneurons and augmented GABA release from SACs. Serotonin-mediated GABA release from SACs was action potential independent and significantly increased miniature IPSC frequency in glomerular neurons. When focally applied to a glomerulus, 5HT increased MC spontaneous firing greater than twofold but did not increase olfactory nerve-evoked responses. Taken together, 5HT modulates glomerular network activity in several ways: 1) it increases ETC-mediated feed-forward excitation onto MCs, SACs, and PGCs; 2) it increases inhibition of glomerular interneurons; 3) it directly triggers action potential-independent GABA release from SACs; and 4) these network actions increase spontaneous MC firing without enhancing responses to suprathreshold sensory input. This may enhance MC sensitivity while maintaining dynamic range. Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society.

Increase of rutin antioxidant activity by generating Maillard reaction products with lysine.

PubMed

Zhang, Ru; Zhang, Bian-Ling; He, Ting; Yi, Ting; Yang, Ji-Ping; He, Bin

2016-06-01

Rutin exists in medicinal herbs, fruits, vegetables, and a number of plant-derived sources. Dietary sources containing rutin are considered beneficial because of their potential protective roles in multiple diseases related to oxidative stresses. In the present study, the change and antioxidation activity of rutin in Maillard reaction with lysine through a heating process were investigated. There is release of glucose and rhamnose that interact with lysine to give Maillard reaction products (MRPs), while rutin is converted to less-polar quercetin and a small quantity of isoquercitrin. Because of their high cell-membrane permeability, the rutin-lysine MRPs increase the free radical-scavenging activity in HepG2 cells, showing cellular antioxidant activity against Cu(2+)-induced oxidative stress higher than that of rutin. Furthermore, the MRPs significantly increased the Cu/Zn SOD (superoxide dismutase) activity and Cu/Zn SOD gene expression of HepG2 cells, consequently enhancing antioxidation activity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Community wide interventions for increasing physical activity.

PubMed

Baker, Philip R A; Francis, Daniel P; Soares, Jesus; Weightman, Alison L; Foster, Charles

2015-01-05

Multi-strategic community wide interventions for physical activity are increasingly popular but their ability to achieve population level improvements is unknown. To evaluate the effects of community wide, multi-strategic interventions upon population levels of physical activity. We searched the Cochrane Public Health Group Segment of the Cochrane Register of Studies,The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, MEDLINE in Process, EMBASE, CINAHL, LILACS, PsycINFO, ASSIA, the British Nursing Index, Chinese CNKI databases, EPPI Centre (DoPHER, TRoPHI), ERIC, HMIC, Sociological Abstracts, SPORT Discus, Transport Database and Web of Science (Science Citation Index, Social Sciences Citation Index, Conference Proceedings Citation Index). We also scanned websites of the EU Platform on Diet, Physical Activity and Health; Health-Evidence.org; the International Union for Health Promotion and Education; the NIHR Coordinating Centre for Health Technology (NCCHTA); the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and NICE and SIGN guidelines. Reference lists of all relevant systematic reviews, guidelines and primary studies were searched and we contacted experts in the field. The searches were updated to 16 January 2014, unrestricted by language or publication status. Cluster randomised controlled trials, randomised controlled trials, quasi-experimental designs which used a control population for comparison, interrupted time-series studies, and prospective controlled cohort studies were included. Only studies with a minimum six-month follow up from the start of the intervention to measurement of outcomes were included. Community wide interventions had to comprise at least two broad strategies aimed at physical activity for the whole population. Studies which randomised individuals from the same community were excluded. At least two review authors independently extracted the data and assessed the risk of bias. Each study was assessed for the setting, the number of included components

Coronary vasospasm induced in transgenic mouse with increased phospholipase C-δ1 activity.

PubMed

Shibutani, Shuji; Osanai, Tomohiro; Ashitate, Toshihiro; Sagara, Shigeki; Izumiyama, Kei; Yamamoto, Yuko; Hanada, Kenji; Echizen, Takashi; Tomita, Hirofumi; Fujita, Takeshi; Miwa, Takeshi; Matsubara, Hiroaki; Homma, Yoshimi; Okumura, Ken

2012-02-28

We reported that phospholipase C (PLC)-δ1 activity was enhanced 3-fold in patients with coronary spastic angina. We detected variant PLC-δ1 with replacement of arginine 257 by histidine (R257H) showing increased enzymatic activity. We tested the hypothesis that increased PLC-δ1 activity causes enhanced coronary vasomotility. We generated transgenic (TG) mice with human R257H variant PLC-δ1 in vascular smooth muscle cells. PLC enzymatic activity in the coronary artery was increased by 2.57 and 1.89 times, respectively, in homozygous and heterozygous TG compared with wild-type (WT) mice. ST elevation after ergometrine occurred in 17 of 18 homozygous TG, 6 of 20 heterozygous TG, and 3 of 22 WT mice (P<0.01, homozygous TG versus WT; P<0.05, homozygous TG versus heterozygous TG; P=NS, heterozygous TG versus WT). ST elevation was associated with bradyarrhythmias in homozygous TG mice. Focal coronary artery narrowing was documented with the microvascular filling technique in 3 of 5 homozygous TG mice after ergometrine but not in any of 7 WT mice (P<0.05). In the isolated Langendorff hearts, coronary perfusion pressure was increased after ergometrine in homozygous TG mice (P<0.01) but not in heterozygous TG or WT mice. Coronary perfusion pressure increase after prostaglandin F2α was similar among homozygous TG, heterozygous TG, and WT mice. Cultured rat aortic smooth muscle cells transfected with variant PLC-δ1 showed a higher PLC activity than those with WT PLC-δ1 (P<0.05) and furthermore showed greater intracellular Ca2+ response to acetylcholine in variant than in WT PLC-δ1 (P<0.05). Increased PLC-δ1 activity enhances coronary vasomotility such as that seen in patients with coronary spastic angina.

Active commuting to school in Finland, the potential for physical activity increase in different seasons

PubMed Central

Kallio, Jouni; Turpeinen, Salla; Hakonen, Harto; Tammelin, Tuija

2016-01-01

Background Active commuting to school (ACS) can be a significant source of physical activity and provide many health benefits. Objective This study identified the potential to increase physical activity levels by promoting ACS in Finnish schools and evaluated the effects of season, distance and age on ACS. Design Data were collected with a questionnaire from 5,107 students, aged 10–16, in 45 comprehensive schools in Finland. The distance and the mode of transport to school in different seasons were self-reported. Results The prevalence of ACS was over 80% during spring/fall for those living 0–5 km from school. ACS was inversely associated with the distance to school and was lower in winter compared to spring and fall. Cycling is less common in winter, especially among girls and younger students. The potential for increasing students’ physical activity levels via ACS seems to be largest in winter, especially among students living 1–5 km from school. The variation in the prevalence of ACS between schools was large, especially in winter. Conclusions When planning interventions to promote ACS, one is encouraged to acknowledge and evaluate the potential in the selected target schools in different seasons. The potential varies largely between schools and seasons and is highly dependent on students’ commuting distances. PMID:27924739

Harmonic Hopping, and Both Punctuated and Gradual Evolution of Acoustic Characters in Selasphorus Hummingbird Tail-Feathers

PubMed Central

Clark, Christopher James

2014-01-01

Models of character evolution often assume a single mode of evolutionary change, such as continuous, or discrete. Here I provide an example in which a character exhibits both types of change. Hummingbirds in the genus Selasphorus produce sound with fluttering tail-feathers during courtship. The ancestral character state within Selasphorus is production of sound with an inner tail-feather, R2, in which the sound usually evolves gradually. Calliope and Allen's Hummingbirds have evolved autapomorphic acoustic mechanisms that involve feather-feather interactions. I develop a source-filter model of these interactions. The ‘source’ comprises feather(s) that are both necessary and sufficient for sound production, and are aerodynamically coupled to neighboring feathers, which act as filters. Filters are unnecessary or insufficient for sound production, but may evolve to become sources. Allen's Hummingbird has evolved to produce sound with two sources, one with feather R3, another frequency-modulated sound with R4, and their interaction frequencies. Allen's R2 retains the ancestral character state, a ∼1 kHz “ghost” fundamental frequency masked by R3, which is revealed when R3 is experimentally removed. In the ancestor to Allen's Hummingbird, the dominant frequency has ‘hopped’ to the second harmonic without passing through intermediate frequencies. This demonstrates that although the fundamental frequency of a communication sound may usually evolve gradually, occasional jumps from one character state to another can occur in a discrete fashion. Accordingly, mapping acoustic characters on a phylogeny may produce misleading results if the physical mechanism of production is not known. PMID:24722049

A pilot test of the Latin active hip hop intervention to increase physical activity among low-income Mexican-American adolescents.

PubMed

Romero, Andrea J

2012-01-01

The primary purpose of the current study was to develop, implement, and evaluate a hip hop dance intervention, Latin Active, among low-income Mexican-American adolescents. Mexican-descent adolescents tend to have disproportionate rates of low physical activity, overweight status, and obesity. A 5-week intervention design with pretest and post-test self-report measures. Charter middle school (grades 6-9) health/science classes in a low-income neighborhood were the setting for the Latin Active intervention. Overall, 81 participants were recruited; 73 (n  =  41, female; n  =  32, male) provided active parental consent to complete pretest/post-test surveys. Intervention . The Latin Active program included 10 interactive 50-minute lessons that were delivered twice a week during science/health classes. The curriculum was created on the basis of Social Cognitive Theory, Critical Hip Hop Pedagogy, and feedback from key stakeholders. The lessons focused on increasing physical activity as well as neighborhood barriers. The self-report pretest (n  =  73) and post-test (n  =  56) surveys included measures for frequency of vigorous physical activity, self-efficacy, and neighborhood barriers. Analysis . Paired-sample t-test analyses were conducted to assess mean differences from pretest to post-test results for intervention outcomes by gender. The Latin Active program (with 77% retention at post-test) significantly increased vigorous physical activity and dance (p < .05) and increased self-efficacy (p < .05) among girls, and it decreased perception of neighborhood barriers (p < .05) among boys. CONCLUSION . A hip hop physical activity program, Latin Active demonstrated preliminary efficacy to increase girl's vigorous physical activity and boy's perception of neighborhood barriers to physical activity. Future research will need to use a randomized, controlled design and investigate the effect of the program on measures of body mass index.

Increasing physical activity in patients with mental illness--A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Göhner, Wiebke; Dietsche, Christine; Fuchs, Reinhard

2015-11-01

The objective of the study was to evaluate whether a motivational-volitional intervention program offered in addition to an existing sport program during stationary treatment is capable of establishing a post-stationary increase in physical activity in persons with mental illness. N=112 in-patients were initially randomly assigned to the control group (CG; standard rehabilitation) or intervention group (IG; standard rehabilitation plus intervention). Assessments were conducted at four measurement points. At 6 months follow up, the level of exercise in the IG was 95 min/week higher than in the CG (p=.02). The participants of the IG were able to increase their level of goal intention until 6 months follow up (t2: p=.03; t4: p=.005); levels of self-efficacy of the IG increased during intervention (t2: p=.001). Changes in volitional aspects were significant over time (t1-t3), but not specifically for the IG. The intervention was effective at increasing the level of physical activity in patients with mental illness who were initially minimally active. Our results suggest that it could be of great use to place the emphasis of a physical activity-enhancing intervention on its motivational effect since volitional aspects are already taken into sufficient account in standard rehabilitation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Predicting overlapping protein complexes from weighted protein interaction graphs by gradually expanding dense neighborhoods.

PubMed

Dimitrakopoulos, Christos; Theofilatos, Konstantinos; Pegkas, Andreas; Likothanassis, Spiros; Mavroudi, Seferina

2016-07-01

Proteins are vital biological molecules driving many fundamental cellular processes. They rarely act alone, but form interacting groups called protein complexes. The study of protein complexes is a key goal in systems biology. Recently, large protein-protein interaction (PPI) datasets have been published and a plethora of computational methods that provide new ideas for the prediction of protein complexes have been implemented. However, most of the methods suffer from two major limitations: First, they do not account for proteins participating in multiple functions and second, they are unable to handle weighted PPI graphs. Moreover, the problem remains open as existing algorithms and tools are insufficient in terms of predictive metrics. In the present paper, we propose gradually expanding neighborhoods with adjustment (GENA), a new algorithm that gradually expands neighborhoods in a graph starting from highly informative "seed" nodes. GENA considers proteins as multifunctional molecules allowing them to participate in more than one protein complex. In addition, GENA accepts weighted PPI graphs by using a weighted evaluation function for each cluster. In experiments with datasets from Saccharomyces cerevisiae and human, GENA outperformed Markov clustering, restricted neighborhood search and clustering with overlapping neighborhood expansion, three state-of-the-art methods for computationally predicting protein complexes. Seven PPI networks and seven evaluation datasets were used in total. GENA outperformed existing methods in 16 out of 18 experiments achieving an average improvement of 5.5% when the maximum matching ratio metric was used. Our method was able to discover functionally homogeneous protein clusters and uncover important network modules in a Parkinson expression dataset. When used on the human networks, around 47% of the detected clusters were enriched in gene ontology (GO) terms with depth higher than five in the GO hierarchy. In the present manuscript

Effects of a gradually increased load of fish waste silage in co-digestion with cow manure on methane production

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

Solli, Linn, E-mail: linn.solli@bioforsk.no; Bergersen, Ove; Sørheim, Roald

2014-08-15

Highlights: • New results from continuous anaerobic co-digestion of fish waste silage (FWS) and cow manure (CM). • Co-digestion of FWS and CM has a high biogas potential. • Optimal mixing ratio of FWS/CM is 13–16/87–84 volume%. • High input of FWS leads to accumulation of NH4+ and VFAs and process failure. - Abstract: This study examined the effects of an increased load of nitrogen-rich organic material on anaerobic digestion and methane production. Co-digestion of fish waste silage (FWS) and cow manure (CM) was studied in two parallel laboratory-scale (8 L effective volume) semi-continuous stirred tank reactors (designated R1 andmore » R2). A reactor fed with CM only (R0) was used as control. The reactors were operated in the mesophilic range (37 °C) with a hydraulic retention time of 30 days, and the entire experiment lasted for 450 days. The rate of organic loading was raised by increasing the content of FWS in the feed stock. During the experiment, the amount (volume%) of FWS was increased stepwise in the following order: 3% – 6% – 13% – 16%, and 19%. Measurements of methane production, and analysis of volatile fatty acids, ammonium and pH in the effluents were carried out. The highest methane production from co-digestion of FWS and CM was 0.400 L CH4 gVS{sup −1}, obtained during the period with loading of 16% FWS in R2. Compared to anaerobic digestion of CM only, the methane production was increased by 100% at most, when FWS was added to the feed stock. The biogas processes failed in R1 and R2 during the periods, with loadings of 16% and 19% FWS, respectively. In both reactors, the biogas processes failed due to overloading and accumulation of ammonia and volatile fatty acids.« less

SPECTRAL PROPERTIES OF LARGE GRADUAL SOLAR ENERGETIC PARTICLE EVENTS. I. FE, O, AND SEED MATERIAL

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

Desai, M. I.; Dayeh, M. A.; Ebert, R. W.

We have surveyed ∼0.1–100 MeV nucleon{sup −1} O and Fe fluence spectra during 46 isolated, large gradual SEP events observed at ACE during solar cycles 23 and 24. Most SEP spectra are well represented by the four-parameter Band function with a normalization constant, low-energy spectral slope, high-energy spectral slope, and break energy. The O and Fe spectral slopes are similar and most spectra steepen above the break energy, probably due to common acceleration and transport processes affecting different ion species. SEP spectra above the break energies depend on the origin of the seed population; larger contributions of suprathermal flare materialmore » result in higher Fe/O ratios and flatter spectra at higher energies. SEP events with steeper O spectra at low energies and higher break energies are associated with slower coronal mass ejections (CMEs), while those associated with fast (>2000 km s{sup −1}) CMEs and ground level enhancements have harder or flatter spectra at low and high energies, and O break energies between ∼1 and 10 MeV nucleon{sup −1}. The latter events are enriched in {sup 3}He and higher-energy Fe, and have Fe spectra that rollover at significantly lower energies compared with O, probably because Fe ions with smaller Q/M ratios can escape from the distant shock more easily than O ions with larger Q/M ratios. We conclude that SEP spectral properties result from many complex and competing effects, namely Q/M-dependent scattering, shock properties, and the origin of the seed populations, all of which must be taken into account to develop a comprehensive picture of CME-driven shock acceleration of large gradual SEP events.« less

Social representations of climate change in Swedish lay focus groups: local or distant, gradual or catastrophic?

PubMed

Wibeck, Victoria

2014-02-01

This paper explores social representations of climate change, investigating how climate change is discussed by Swedish laypeople interacting in focus group interviews. The analysis focuses on prototypical examples and metaphors, which were key devices for objectifying climate change representations. The paper analyzes how the interaction of focus group participants with other speakers, ideas, arguments, and broader social representations shaped their representations of climate change. Climate change was understood as a global but distant issue with severe consequences. There was a dynamic tension between representations of climate change as a gradual vs. unpredictable process. Implications for climate change communication are discussed.

Device and method for measuring fluid flow in a conduit having a gradual bend

DOEpatents

Ortiz, M.G.; Boucher, T.J.

1998-11-10

A system is described for measuring fluid flow in a conduit having a gradual bend or arc, and a straight section. The system includes pressure transducers, one or more disposed in the conduit on the outside of the arc, and one disposed in the conduit in a straight section thereof. The pressure transducers measure the pressure of fluid in the conduit at the locations of the pressure transducers and this information is used by a computational device to calculate fluid flow rate in the conduit. For multi-phase fluid, the density of the fluid is measured by another pair of pressure transducers, one of which is located in the conduit elevationally above the other. The computation device then uses the density measurement along with the fluid pressure measurements, to calculate fluid flow. 1 fig.

Device and method for measuring fluid flow in a conduit having a gradual bend

DOEpatents

Ortiz, Marcos German; Boucher, Timothy J

1998-01-01

A system for measuring fluid flow in a conduit having a gradual bend or arc, and a straight section. The system includes pressure transducers, one or more disposed in the conduit on the outside of the arc, and one disposed in the conduit in a straight section thereof. The pressure transducers measure the pressure of fluid in the conduit at the locations of the pressure transducers and this information is used by a computational device to calculate fluid flow rate in the conduit. For multi-phase fluid, the density of the fluid is measured by another pair of pressure transducers, one of which is located in the conduit elevationally above the other. The computation device then uses the density measurement along with the fluid pressure measurements, to calculate fluid flow.

Heat reversal of activity-based anorexia: implications for the treatment of anorexia nervosa.

PubMed

Gutierrez, Emilio; Cerrato, María; Carrera, Olaia; Vazquez, Reyes

2008-11-01

Activity-based anorexia (ABA) provides an animal model of anorexia nervosa (AN). In this model, rats given restricted access to food but unrestricted access to activity wheels, run excessively while reducing food intake, lose a sizeable percentage of body weight, become hypothermic, and can fail to recover unless removed from these conditions. Once rats had lost 20% of body weight under standard ABA conditions, they were assigned to one of two ambient temperature (AT) conditions. Increased AT reduced running rates and led to weight gain in active rats. The effect of increasing AT on food intake was dependent on whether the rats were sedentary or active. Although warming reduced food intake in the sedentary rats their body weight remained stable, whereas in active rats increased AT did not reduce food intake and weight gain gradually rose. From a translational perspective, these findings offer a fresh perspective to the disorder, and underscore the need for further studies to assess the effects of heat treatment in patients as an innovative adjunctive treatment for anorexia nervosa.

Increasing Children's Voluntary Physical Activity Outside of School Hours Through Targeting Social Cognitive Theory Variables.

PubMed

Annesi, James J; Walsh, Stephanie M; Greenwood, Brittney L

2016-10-01

Volume of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity completed during the elementary school day is insufficient, and associated with health risks. Improvements in theory-based psychosocial factors might facilitate increased out-of-school physical activity. A behaviorally based after-school care protocol, Youth Fit 4 Life, was tested for its association with increased voluntary, out-of-school physical activity and improvements in its theory-based psychosocial predictors in 9- to 12-year-olds. Increases over 12 weeks in out-of-school physical activity, and improvements in self-regulation for physical activity, exercise self-efficacy, and mood, were significantly greater in the Youth Fit 4 Life group (n = 88) when contrasted with a typical care control group (n = 57). Changes in the 3 psychosocial variables significantly mediated the group-physical activity change relationship (R(2) = .31, P < .001). Change in self-regulation was a significant independent mediator, and had a reciprocal relationship with change in out-of-school physical activity. In the Youth Fit 4 Life group, occurrence of 300 min/wk of overall physical activity increased from 41% to 71%. Targeting theory-based psychosocial changes within a structured after-school care physical activity program was associated with increases in children's overall time being physically active. After replication, large scale application will be warranted. © The Author(s) 2016.

Recovery of skeletal muscle mass after extensive injury: positive effects of increased contractile activity.

PubMed

Richard-Bulteau, Hélène; Serrurier, Bernard; Crassous, Brigitte; Banzet, Sébastien; Peinnequin, André; Bigard, Xavier; Koulmann, Nathalie

2008-02-01

The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that increasing physical activity by running exercise could favor the recovery of muscle mass after extensive injury and to determine the main molecular mechanisms involved. Left soleus muscles of female Wistar rats were degenerated by notexin injection before animals were assigned to either a sedentary group or an exercised group. Both regenerating and contralateral intact muscles from active and sedentary rats were removed 5, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 42 days after injury (n = 8 rats/group). Increasing contractile activity through running exercise during muscle regeneration ensured the full recovery of muscle mass and muscle cross-sectional area as soon as 21 days after injury, whereas muscle weight remained lower even 42 days postinjury in sedentary rats. Proliferator cell nuclear antigen and MyoD protein expression went on longer in active rats than in sedentary rats. Myogenin protein expression was higher in active animals than in sedentary animals 21 days postinjury. The Akt-mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway was activated early during the regeneration process, with further increases of mTOR phosphorylation and its downstream effectors, eukaryotic initiation factor-4E-binding protein-1 and p70(s6k), in active rats compared with sedentary rats (days 7-14). The exercise-induced increase in mTOR phosphorylation, independently of Akt, was associated with decreased levels of phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase. Taken together, these results provided evidence that increasing contractile activity during muscle regeneration ensured early and full recovery of muscle mass and suggested that these beneficial effects may be due to a longer proliferative step of myogenic cells and activation of mTOR signaling, independently of Akt, during the maturation step of muscle regeneration.

Increasing western US forest wildfire activity: sensitivity to changes in the timing of spring.

PubMed

Westerling, Anthony LeRoy

2016-06-05

Prior work shows western US forest wildfire activity increased abruptly in the mid-1980s. Large forest wildfires and areas burned in them have continued to increase over recent decades, with most of the increase in lightning-ignited fires. Northern US Rockies forests dominated early increases in wildfire activity, and still contributed 50% of the increase in large fires over the last decade. However, the percentage growth in wildfire activity in Pacific northwestern and southwestern US forests has rapidly increased over the last two decades. Wildfire numbers and burned area are also increasing in non-forest vegetation types. Wildfire activity appears strongly associated with warming and earlier spring snowmelt. Analysis of the drivers of forest wildfire sensitivity to changes in the timing of spring demonstrates that forests at elevations where the historical mean snow-free season ranged between two and four months, with relatively high cumulative warm-season actual evapotranspiration, have been most affected. Increases in large wildfires associated with earlier spring snowmelt scale exponentially with changes in moisture deficit, and moisture deficit changes can explain most of the spatial variability in forest wildfire regime response to the timing of spring.This article is part of the themed issue 'The interaction of fire and mankind'. © 2016 The Author(s).

Increasing western US forest wildfire activity: sensitivity to changes in the timing of spring

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Prior work shows western US forest wildfire activity increased abruptly in the mid-1980s. Large forest wildfires and areas burned in them have continued to increase over recent decades, with most of the increase in lightning-ignited fires. Northern US Rockies forests dominated early increases in wildfire activity, and still contributed 50% of the increase in large fires over the last decade. However, the percentage growth in wildfire activity in Pacific northwestern and southwestern US forests has rapidly increased over the last two decades. Wildfire numbers and burned area are also increasing in non-forest vegetation types. Wildfire activity appears strongly associated with warming and earlier spring snowmelt. Analysis of the drivers of forest wildfire sensitivity to changes in the timing of spring demonstrates that forests at elevations where the historical mean snow-free season ranged between two and four months, with relatively high cumulative warm-season actual evapotranspiration, have been most affected. Increases in large wildfires associated with earlier spring snowmelt scale exponentially with changes in moisture deficit, and moisture deficit changes can explain most of the spatial variability in forest wildfire regime response to the timing of spring. This article is part of the themed issue ‘The interaction of fire and mankind’. PMID:27216510

Optimizing donor scheduling before recruitment: An effective approach to increasing apheresis platelet collections.

PubMed

Lokhandwala, Parvez M; Shike, Hiroko; Wang, Ming; Domen, Ronald E; George, Melissa R

2018-01-01

Typical approach for increasing apheresis platelet collections is to recruit new donors. Here, we investigated the effectiveness of an alternative strategy: optimizing donor scheduling, prior to recruitment, at a hospital-based blood donor center. Analysis of collections, during the 89 consecutive months since opening of donor center, was performed. Linear regression and segmented time-series analyses were performed to calculate growth rates of collections and to test for statistical differences, respectively. Pre-intervention donor scheduling capacity was 39/month. In the absence of active donor recruitment, during the first 29 months, the number of collections rose gradually to 24/month (growth-rate of 0.70/month). However, between month-30 and -55, collections exhibited a plateau at 25.6 ± 3.0 (growth-rate of -0.09/month) (p<0.0001). This plateau-phase coincided with donor schedule approaching saturation (65.6 ± 7.6% schedule booked). Scheduling capacity was increased by following two interventions: adding an apheresis instrument (month-56) and adding two more collection days/week (month-72). Consequently, the scheduling capacity increased to 130/month. Post-interventions, apheresis platelet collections between month-56 and -81 exhibited a spontaneous renewed growth at a rate of 0.62/month (p<0.0001), in absence of active donor recruitment. Active donor recruitment in month-82 and -86, when the donor schedule had been optimized to accommodate further growth, resulted in a dramatic but transient surge in collections. Apheresis platelet collections plateau at nearly 2/3rd of the scheduling capacity. Optimizing the scheduling capacity prior to active donor recruitment is an effective strategy to increase platelet collections at a hospital-based donor center.

Acute Increases in Protein O-GlcNAcylation Dampen Epileptiform Activity in Hippocampus

PubMed Central

Wang, Kai; Pati, Sandipan; Olsen, Michelle L.; Chatham, John C.

2017-01-01

O-GlcNAcylation is a ubiquitous and dynamic post-translational modification involving the O-linkage of β-N-acetylglucosamine to serine/threonine residues of membrane, cytosolic, and nuclear proteins. This modification is similar to phosphorylation and regarded as a key regulator of cell survival and homeostasis. Previous studies have shown that phosphorylation of serine residues on synaptic proteins is a major regulator of synaptic strength and long-term plasticity, suggesting that O-GlcNAcylation of synaptic proteins is likely as important as phosphorylation; however, few studies have investigated its role in synaptic efficacy. We recently demonstrated that acutely increasing O-GlcNAcylation induces a novel form of LTD at CA3-CA1 synapses, O-GlcNAc LTD. Here, using hippocampal slices from young adult male rats and mice, we report that epileptiform activity at CA3-CA1 synapses, generated by GABAAR inhibition, is significantly attenuated when protein O-GlcNAcylation is pharmacologically increased. This dampening effect is lost in slices from GluA2 KO mice, indicating a requirement of GluA2-containing AMPARs, similar to expression of O-GlcNAc LTD. Furthermore, we find that increasing O-GlcNAcylation decreases spontaneous CA3 pyramidal cell activity under basal and hyperexcitable conditions. This dampening effect was also observed on cortical hyperexcitability during in vivo EEG recordings in awake mice where the effects of the proconvulsant pentylenetetrazole are attenuated by acutely increasing O-GlcNAcylation. Collectively, these data demonstrate that the post-translational modification, O-GlcNAcylation, is a novel mechanism by which neuronal and synaptic excitability can be regulated, and suggest the possibility that increasing O-GlcNAcylation could be a novel therapeutic target to treat seizure disorders and epilepsy. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT We recently reported that an acute pharmacological increase in protein O-GlcNAcylation induces a novel form of long

Increased Endothelin Activity Mediates Augmented Distal Nephron Acidification Induced by Dietary Protein

PubMed Central

Khanna, Apurv; Simoni, Jan; Hacker, Callenda; Duran, Marie-Josée; Wesson, Donald E

2005-01-01

We tested the hypothesis that increased dietary protein augments distal nephron acidification through an endothelin-dependent mechanism. Munich-Wistar rats ate minimum electrolyte diets of 50% (HiPro) and 20% (CON) casein-provided protein, the latter comparable to standard chow. HiPro vs. CON had higher distal nephron H+ secretion (41.3 ± 4.0 vs. 23.0 ± 2.1 pmol/mm.min, p < 0.002) mediated by augmented Na+/H+ exchange and H+-ATPase activity. Renal cortex of HiPro vs. CON had higher ET-1 addition to microdialysate and higher ET-1 mRNA, consistent with increased renal ET-1 production. Bosentan, an endothelin A/B receptor antagonist, decreased HiPro distal nephron H+ secretion (28.4 ± 2.4 vs. 41.3 ± 4.0 pmol/mm.min, p < 0.016) through decreased Na+/H+ exchange and decreased H+-ATPase activity. Increased dietary protein augments distal nephron acidification through an endothelin-sensitive increase in Na+/H+ exchange and H+-ATPase activity, supporting an endothelin role in the distal nephron response to this common challenge to acid-base status. PMID:16555618

Increased active von Willebrand factor during disease development in the aging diabetic patient population.

PubMed

Chen, Shuang Feng; Xia, Zuo Li; Han, Ji Ju; Wang, Yi Ting; Wang, Ji Yue; Pan, Shao Dong; Wu, Ya Ping; Zhang, Bin; Li, Guang Yao; Du, Jing Wei; Gao, Hen Qiang; de Groot, Philip G; de Laat, Bas; Hollestelle, Martine J

2013-02-01

Type 2 diabetes is known to cause endothelial activation resulting in the secretion of von Willebrand factor (VWF). We have shown that levels of VWF in a glycoprotein Ib-binding conformation are increased in specific clinical settings. The aim of the current study is to investigate whether active VWF levels increase during aging and the development of diabetes within the population of patients suffering from type 2 diabetes. Patients and controls were divided into two groups based on age: older and younger than 60 years of age. VWF antigen, VWF propeptide, VWF activation factor and total active VWF were measured. Patients older than 60 years of age had increased levels of total active VWF, VWF activation factor and VWF propeptide compared to younger patients and controls. All measured VWF parameters were associated with age in diabetic patients. Total active VWF and VWF propeptide correlated with the period of being diagnosed with diabetes. Regression analyses showed that especially the VWF activation factor was strongly associated with diabetes in patients older than 60 years of age. In conclusion, we found that the conformation of VWF could be involved in the disease process of diabetes and that the VWF in a glycoprotein Ib-binding conformation could play a role as risk marker during the development of diabetes in combination with an increase in age. Our study shows that the active quality of VWF was more important than the quantity.

Increased Arf/p53 activity in stem cells, aging and cancer.

PubMed

Carrasco-Garcia, Estefania; Moreno, Manuel; Moreno-Cugnon, Leire; Matheu, Ander

2017-04-01

Arf/p53 pathway protects the cells against DNA damage induced by acute stress. This characteristic is the responsible for its tumor suppressor activity. Moreover, it regulates the chronic type of stress associated with aging. This is the basis of its anti-aging activity. Indeed, increased gene dosage of Arf/p53 displays elongated longevity and delayed aging. At a cellular level, it has been recently shown that increased dosage of Arf/p53 delays age-associated stem cell exhaustion and the subsequent decline in tissue homeostasis and regeneration. However, p53 can also promote aging if constitutively activated. In this context, p53 reduces tissue regeneration, which correlates with premature exhaustion of stem cells. We discuss here the current evidence linking the Arf/p53 pathway to the processes of aging and cancer through stem cell regulation. © 2017 The Authors. Aging Cell published by the Anatomical Society and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Pharmacogenetic stimulation of neuronal activity increases myelination in an axon-specific manner.

PubMed

Mitew, Stanislaw; Gobius, Ilan; Fenlon, Laura R; McDougall, Stuart J; Hawkes, David; Xing, Yao Lulu; Bujalka, Helena; Gundlach, Andrew L; Richards, Linda J; Kilpatrick, Trevor J; Merson, Tobias D; Emery, Ben

2018-01-22

Mounting evidence suggests that neuronal activity influences myelination, potentially allowing for experience-driven modulation of neural circuitry. The degree to which neuronal activity is capable of regulating myelination at the individual axon level is unclear. Here we demonstrate that stimulation of somatosensory axons in the mouse brain increases proliferation and differentiation of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) within the underlying white matter. Stimulated axons display an increased probability of being myelinated compared to neighboring non-stimulated axons, in addition to being ensheathed with thicker myelin. Conversely, attenuating neuronal firing reduces axonal myelination in a selective activity-dependent manner. Our findings reveal that the process of selecting axons for myelination is strongly influenced by the relative activity of individual axons within a population. These observed cellular changes are consistent with the emerging concept that adaptive myelination is a key mechanism for the fine-tuning of neuronal circuitry in the mammalian CNS.

[Prevalence of myopia and increase trend in children and adolescents aged 7-18 years in Han ethnic group in China, 2005-2014].

PubMed

Dong, Y H; Liu, H B; Wang, Z H; Yang, Z P; Xu, R B; Yang, Z G; Ma, J

2017-05-10

Objective: To understand and evaluate the prevalence of myopia and its trend in children and adolescents aged 7-18 years in Han ethnic group in China from 2005 to 2014, and provide evidence for the prevention of myopia. Methods: The data of 2005, 2010 and 2014 Chinese National Students Constitution and Health Surveys were collected. The children and adolescents with complete detection data of binoculus were selected as study subjects. The sample size of three studies were 233 108, 215 319 and 212 743, respectively. The method of curve fitting was used to simulate the myopia detection increase model and analyze the gender and area specific myopia detection increase trends and characteristics from 2005 to 2014. Results: The overall myopia detection rate increased gradually in the children and adolescents aged 7 to 18, which was 47.5 % in 2005, 55.5 % in 2010 and 57.1 % in 2014, respectively. The increase slowed in 2014. A"parabola" shape of myopia detection increase rate was observed. Myopia detection rate increased with age before puberty and decreased with age after puberty gradually. A"cross phenomenon" of myopia detection increase was observed in boys and girls between urban and rural areas. The increase of myopia detection was mainly in urban students before puberty and in rural students after puberty. The age of myopia prevalence peak has become earlier constantly in children and adolescents aged 7-18 years from 2005 to 2014, which was 13 years old in 2005, 12 years old in 2010 and 11 years old in 2014. The increase rate was about 7 % . During 2005-2014, the increase rate of myopia detection gradually increased in younger students and tended to zero in older students. Conclusion: The detection rate of myopia was still high in children and adolescents in China. The age of myopia prevalence peak has become earlier gradually.

Increased Enterococcus faecalis infection is associated with clinically active Crohn disease

PubMed Central

Zhou, Youlian; Chen, Huiting; He, Hanchang; Du, Yanlei; Hu, Jiaqi; Li, Yingfei; Li, Yuyuan; Zhou, Yongjian; Wang, Hong; Chen, Ye; Nie, Yuqiang

2016-01-01

Abstract This study was performed to investigate the relationship between the abundance of pathogenic gut microbes in Chinese patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and disease severity. We collected clinical data and fecal samples from 47 therapy-naive Chinese patients with ulcerative colitis (UC), 67 patients with Crohn disease (CD), and 48 healthy volunteers. Bacteria levels of Fusobacterium species (spp), enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis (B fragilis), enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (E coli), and Enterococcus faecalis (E faecalis) were assessed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated to test associations between bacterial content and clinical parameters. Compared to healthy controls, the levels of both Fusobacterium spp and E faecalis were significantly increased in the feces of patients with IBD (P < 0.01). B fragilis levels were higher (P < 0.05) and E faecalis levels lower (P < 0.05) in patients with CD compared to those with UC. Increased E faecalis colonization in CD associated positively with disease activity (P = 0.015), Crohn disease activity index (CDAI; R = 0.3118, P = 0.0108), and fecal calprotectin (P = 0.016). E faecalis and Fusobacterium spp are significantly enriched in patients with IBD, and increased E faecalis infection is associated with clinically active CD. PMID:27684872

Increased Enterococcus faecalis infection is associated with clinically active Crohn disease.

PubMed

Zhou, Youlian; Chen, Huiting; He, Hanchang; Du, Yanlei; Hu, Jiaqi; Li, Yingfei; Li, Yuyuan; Zhou, Yongjian; Wang, Hong; Chen, Ye; Nie, Yuqiang

2016-09-01

This study was performed to investigate the relationship between the abundance of pathogenic gut microbes in Chinese patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and disease severity.We collected clinical data and fecal samples from 47 therapy-naive Chinese patients with ulcerative colitis (UC), 67 patients with Crohn disease (CD), and 48 healthy volunteers. Bacteria levels of Fusobacterium species (spp), enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis (B fragilis), enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (E coli), and Enterococcus faecalis (E faecalis) were assessed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated to test associations between bacterial content and clinical parameters.Compared to healthy controls, the levels of both Fusobacterium spp and E faecalis were significantly increased in the feces of patients with IBD (P < 0.01). B fragilis levels were higher (P < 0.05) and E faecalis levels lower (P < 0.05) in patients with CD compared to those with UC. Increased E faecalis colonization in CD associated positively with disease activity (P = 0.015), Crohn disease activity index (CDAI; R = 0.3118, P = 0.0108), and fecal calprotectin (P = 0.016).E faecalis and Fusobacterium spp are significantly enriched in patients with IBD, and increased E faecalis infection is associated with clinically active CD.

Rapid light-induced activation of retinal microglia in mice lacking Arrestin-1.

PubMed

Levine, Emily S; Zam, Azhar; Zhang, Pengfei; Pechko, Alina; Wang, Xinlei; FitzGerald, Paul; Pugh, Edward N; Zawadzki, Robert J; Burns, Marie E

2014-09-01

Microglia dynamically prune synaptic contacts during development, and digest waste that accumulates in degeneration and aging. In many neurodegenerative diseases, microglial activation and phagocytosis gradually increase over months or years, with poorly defined initial triggering events. Here, we describe rapid retinal microglial activation in response to physiological light levels in a mouse model of photoreceptor degeneration that arises from defective rhodopsin deactivation and prolonged signaling. Activation, migration and proliferation of microglia proceeded along a well-defined time course apparent within 12 h of light onset. Retinal imaging in vivo with optical coherence tomography revealed dramatic increases in light-scattering from photoreceptors prior to the outer nuclear layer thinning classically used as a measure of retinal neurodegeneration. This model is valuable for mechanistic studies of microglial activation in a well-defined and optically accessible neural circuit, and for the development of novel methods for detecting early signs of pending neurodegeneration in vivo. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

NFAT-133 increases glucose uptake in L6 myotubes by activating AMPK pathway.

PubMed

Thakkar, Chandni S; Kate, Abhijeet S; Desai, Dattatraya C; Ghosh, Asit Ranjan; Kulkarni-Almeida, Asha A

2015-12-15

NFAT-133 is an aromatic compound with cinammyl alcohol moiety, isolated from streptomycetes strain PM0324667. We have earlier reported that NFAT-133 increases insulin stimulated glucose uptake in L6 myotubes using a PPARγ independent mechanism and reduces plasma or blood glucose levels in diabetic mice. Here we investigated the effects of NFAT-133 on cellular signaling pathways leading to glucose uptake in L6 myotubes. Our studies demonstrate that NFAT-133 increases glucose uptake in a dose- and time-dependent manner independent of the effects of insulin. Treatment with Akti-1/2, wortmannin and increasing concentrations of insulin had no effect on NFAT-133 mediated glucose uptake. NFAT-133 induced glucose uptake is completely mitigated by Compound C, an AMPK inhibitor. Further, the kinases upstream of AMPK activation namely; LKB-1 and CAMKKβ are not involved in NFAT-133 mediated AMPK activation nor does the compound NFAT-133 have any effect on AMPK enzyme activity. Further analysis confirmed that NFAT-133 indirectly activates AMPK by reducing the mitochondrial membrane potential and increasing the ratio of AMP:ATP. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Increased core body temperature in astronauts during long-duration space missions.

PubMed

Stahn, Alexander C; Werner, Andreas; Opatz, Oliver; Maggioni, Martina A; Steinach, Mathias; von Ahlefeld, Victoria Weller; Moore, Alan; Crucian, Brian E; Smith, Scott M; Zwart, Sara R; Schlabs, Thomas; Mendt, Stefan; Trippel, Tobias; Koralewski, Eberhard; Koch, Jochim; Choukèr, Alexander; Reitz, Günther; Shang, Peng; Röcker, Lothar; Kirsch, Karl A; Gunga, Hanns-Christian

2017-11-23

Humans' core body temperature (CBT) is strictly controlled within a narrow range. Various studies dealt with the impact of physical activity, clothing, and environmental factors on CBT regulation under terrestrial conditions. However, the effects of weightlessness on human thermoregulation are not well understood. Specifically, studies, investigating the effects of long-duration spaceflight on CBT at rest and during exercise are clearly lacking. We here show that during exercise CBT rises higher and faster in space than on Earth. Moreover, we observed for the first time a sustained increased astronauts' CBT also under resting conditions. This increase of about 1 °C developed gradually over 2.5 months and was associated with augmented concentrations of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, a key anti-inflammatory protein. Since even minor increases in CBT can impair physical and cognitive performance, both findings have a considerable impact on astronauts' health and well-being during future long-term spaceflights. Moreover, our findings also pinpoint crucial physiological challenges for spacefaring civilizations, and raise questions about the assumption of a thermoregulatory set point in humans, and our evolutionary ability to adapt to climate changes on Earth.

Raloxifene increases prefrontal activity during emotional inhibition in schizophrenia based on estrogen receptor genotype.

PubMed

Kindler, Jochen; Weickert, Cynthia Shannon; Schofield, Peter R; Lenroot, Rhoshel; Weickert, Thomas W

2016-12-01

People with schizophrenia show decreased prefrontal cortex (PFC) activity during emotional response inhibition, a cognitive process sensitive to hormonal influences. Raloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator, binds estrogen receptor alpha (ESR-α), improves memory, attention and normalizes cortical and hippocampal activity during learning and emotional face recognition in schizophrenia. Here, we tested the extent to which raloxifene restores neuronal activity during emotional response inhibition in schizophrenia. Since genetic variation in estrogen receptor alpha (ESR-1) determines cortical ESR-α production and correlates with cognition, we also predicted that genetic ESR-1 variation would differentially relate to increased cortical activity by raloxifene administration. Thirty people with schizophrenia participated in a thirteen-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over adjunctive treatment trial of raloxifene administered at 120mg/day. Effects of raloxifene on brain activation were assessed based on ESR-1 genotype using functional magnetic resonance imaging during emotional word inhibition. Raloxifene increased PFC activity during inhibition of response to negative words and the raloxifene related increased PFC activity was greater in patients homozygous for ESR-1 rs9340799 AA relative to G carriers. Comparison to 23 healthy controls demonstrated that PFC activity of people with schizophrenia receiving raloxifene was more similar to controls than to their own brain activity during placebo. Estrogen receptor modulation by raloxifene restores PFC activity during emotional response inhibition in schizophrenia and ESR-1 genotype predicts degree of increased neural activity in response to raloxifene. While these preliminary results require replication, they suggest the potential for personalized pharmacotherapy using ESR-1 and estrogen receptor targeting compounds in schizophrenia. Crown Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B

Homocysteine activates T cells by enhancing endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondria coupling and increasing mitochondrial respiration.

PubMed

Feng, Juan; Lü, Silin; Ding, Yanhong; Zheng, Ming; Wang, Xian

2016-06-01

Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) accelerates atherosclerosis by increasing proliferation and stimulating cytokine secretion in T cells. However, whether homocysteine (Hcy)-mediated T cell activation is associated with metabolic reprogramming is unclear. Here, our in vivo and in vitro studies showed that Hcy-stimulated splenic T-cell activation in mice was accompanied by increased levels of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) and calcium, mitochondrial mass and respiration. Inhibiting mitochondrial ROS production and calcium signals or blocking mitochondrial respiration largely blunted Hcy-induced T-cell interferon γ (IFN-γ) secretion and proliferation. Hcy also enhanced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in T cells, and inhibition of ER stress with 4-phenylbutyric acid blocked Hcy-induced T-cell activation. Mechanistically, Hcy increased ER-mitochondria coupling, and uncoupling ER-mitochondria by the microtubule inhibitor nocodazole attenuated Hcy-stimulated mitochondrial reprogramming, IFN-γ secretion and proliferation in T cells, suggesting that juxtaposition of ER and mitochondria is required for Hcy-promoted mitochondrial function and T-cell activation. In conclusion, Hcy promotes T-cell activation by increasing ER-mitochondria coupling and regulating metabolic reprogramming.

Lifelong Cyclic Mechanical Strain Promotes Large Elastic Artery Stiffening: Increased Pulse Pressure and Old Age-Related Organ Failure.

PubMed

Thorin-Trescases, Nathalie; Thorin, Eric

2016-05-01

The arterial wall is under a huge mechanical constraint imposed by the cardiac cycle that is bound to generate damage with time. Each heartbeat indeed imposes a pulsatile pressure that generates a vascular stretch. Lifetime accumulation of pulsatile stretches will eventually induce fatigue of the elastic large arterial walls, such as aortic and carotid artery walls, promoting their stiffening that will gradually perturb the normal blood flow and local pressure within the organs, and lead to organ failure. The augmented pulse pressure induced by arterial stiffening favours left ventricular hypertrophy because of the repeated extra work against stiff high-pressure arteries, and tissue damage as a result of excessive pulsatile pressure transmitted into the microcirculation, especially in low resistance/high-flow organs such as the brain and kidneys. Vascular aging is therefore characterized by the stiffening of large elastic arteries leading to a gradual increase in pulse pressure with age. In this review we focus on the effect of age-related stiffening of large elastic arteries. We report the clinical evidence linking arterial stiffness and organ failure and discuss the molecular pathways that are activated by the increase of mechanical stress in the wall. We also discuss the possible interventions that could limit arterial stiffening with age, such as regular aerobic exercise training, and some pharmacological approaches. Copyright © 2016 Canadian Cardiovascular Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cadmium Phytoavailability and Enzyme Activity under Humic Acid Treatment in Fluvo-aquic Soil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Borui; Huang, Qing; Su, Yuefeng

2018-01-01

A pot experiment was conducted to investigate the cadmium (Cd) availability to pakchois (Brassica chinensis L.) as well as the enzyme activities in fluvo-aquic soil under humic acid treatment. The results showed that the phytoavailability of Cd in soil decreased gradually as humic acid concentration rose (0 to 12 g·kg-1), while the activities of urease (UE), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and catalase (CAT) kept increasing (P < 0.05). The correlation analysis indicated that humic acid was effective for reducing the devastation to soil enzymes due to the Cd pollution. In conclusion, humic acid is effective for the reduction of both Cd phytoavailability and the damage to enzyme activities due to Cd pollution in fluvo-aquic soil

A simple mathematical model of gradual Darwinian evolution: emergence of a Gaussian trait distribution in adaptation along a fitness gradient.

PubMed

Biktashev, Vadim N

2014-04-01

We consider a simple mathematical model of gradual Darwinian evolution in continuous time and continuous trait space, due to intraspecific competition for common resource in an asexually reproducing population in constant environment, while far from evolutionary stable equilibrium. The model admits exact analytical solution. In particular, Gaussian distribution of the trait emerges from generic initial conditions.

Oxytocin increases VTA activation to infant and sexual stimuli in nulliparous and postpartum women

PubMed Central

Gregory, Rebecca; Cheng, Hu; Rupp, Heather A.; Sengelaub, Dale R.; Heiman, Julia R.

2015-01-01

After giving birth, women typically experience decreased sexual desire and increased responsiveness to infant stimuli. These postpartum changes may be viewed as a trade-off in reproductive interests, which could be due to alterations in brain activity including areas associated with reward. The goal of this study was to describe the roles of oxytocin and parity on reward area activation in response to reproductive stimuli, specifically infant and sexual images. Because they have been shown to be associated with reward, the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and nucleus accumbens (NAc) were targeted as areas of expected alterations in activity. Oxytocin was chosen as a potential mediator of reproductive trade-offs because of its relationship to both mother–infant interactions, including breastfeeding and bonding, and sexual responses. We predicted that postpartum women would show higher reward area activation to infant stimuli and nulliparous women would show higher activation to sexual stimuli and that oxytocin would increase activation to infant stimuli in nulliparous women. To test this, we measured VTA and NAc activation using fMRI in response to infant photos, sexual photos, and neutral photos in 29 postpartum and 30 nulliparous women. Participants completed the Sexual Inhibition (SIS) and Sexual Excitation (SES) Scales and the Brief Index of Sexual Function for Women (BISF-W), which includes a sexual desire dimension, and received either oxytocin or placebo nasal spray before viewing crying and smiling infant and sexual images in an fMRI scanner. For both groups of women, intranasal oxytocin administration increased VTA activation to both crying infant and sexual images but not to smiling infant images. We found that postpartum women showed lower SES, higher SIS, and lower sexual desire compared to nulliparous women. Across parity groups, SES scores were correlated with VTA activation and subjective arousal ratings to sexual images. In postpartum women, sexual

Increased activation of NADPH oxidase 4 in the pulmonary vasculature in experimental diaphragmatic hernia.

PubMed

Gosemann, Jan-H; Friedmacher, Florian; Hunziker, Manuela; Alvarez, Luis; Corcionivoschi, Nicolae; Puri, Prem

2013-01-01

Persistent pulmonary hypertension remains a major cause of mortality and morbidity in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). NADPH oxidases (Nox) are the main source of superoxide production in vasculature. Nox4 is highly expressed in the smooth muscle and endothelial cells of the vascular wall and increased activity has been reported in the pulmonary vasculature of both experimental and human pulmonary hypertension. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPARγ) is a key regulator of Nox4 expression. Targeted depletion of PPARγ results in pulmonary hypertension phenotype whereas activation of PPARγ attenuates pulmonary hypertension and reduces Nox4 production. The nitrofen-induced CDH model is an established model to study the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension in CDH. It has been previously reported that PPARγ-signaling is disrupted during late gestation and H(2)O(2) production is increased in nitrofen-induced CDH. We designed this study to investigate the hypothesis that Nox4 expression and activation is increased and vascular PPARγ is decreased in nitrofen-induced CDH. Pregnant rats were treated with either nitrofen or vehicle on gestational day 9 (D9). Fetuses were sacrificed on D21 and divided into control and CDH. RT-PCR, western blotting and confocal-immunofluorescence-double-staining were performed to determine pulmonary expression levels of PPARγ, Nox4 and Nox4-activation (p22(phox)). There was a marked increase in medial and adventitial thickness in pulmonary arteries of all sizes in CDH compared to controls. Pulmonary Nox4 levels were significantly increased whereas PPARγ levels were decreased in nitrofen-induced CDH compared to controls. Western blotting revealed increased pulmonary protein expression of the Nox4-activating subunit p22(phox) and decreased protein expression of PPARγ in CDH compared to controls. Confocal-microscopy confirmed markedly increased pulmonary expression of the Nox4 activating subunit p22(phox) accompanied by

Increasing Spontaneous Retinal Activity before Eye Opening Accelerates the Development of Geniculate Receptive Fields

PubMed Central

Davis, Zachary W.; Chapman, Barbara

2015-01-01

Visually evoked activity is necessary for the normal development of the visual system. However, little is known about the capacity for patterned spontaneous activity to drive the maturation of receptive fields before visual experience. Retinal waves provide instructive retinotopic information for the anatomical organization of the visual thalamus. To determine whether retinal waves also drive the maturation of functional responses, we increased the frequency of retinal waves pharmacologically in the ferret (Mustela putorius furo) during a period of retinogeniculate development before eye opening. The development of geniculate receptive fields after receiving these increased neural activities was measured using single-unit electrophysiology. We found that increased retinal waves accelerate the developmental reduction of geniculate receptive field sizes. This reduction is due to a decrease in receptive field center size rather than an increase in inhibitory surround strength. This work reveals an instructive role for patterned spontaneous activity in guiding the functional development of neural circuits. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Patterned spontaneous neural activity that occurs during development is known to be necessary for the proper formation of neural circuits. However, it is unknown whether the spontaneous activity alone is sufficient to drive the maturation of the functional properties of neurons. Our work demonstrates for the first time an acceleration in the maturation of neural function as a consequence of driving patterned spontaneous activity during development. This work has implications for our understanding of how neural circuits can be modified actively to improve function prematurely or to recover from injury with guided interventions of patterned neural activity. PMID:26511250

Increase of gap junction activities in SW480 human colorectal cancer cells.

PubMed

Bigelow, Kristina; Nguyen, Thu A

2014-07-09

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States with an early detection rate of only 39%. Colorectal cancer cells along with other cancer cells exhibit many deficiencies in cell-to-cell communication, particularly gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC). GJIC has been reported to diminish as cancer cells progress. Gap junctions are intercellular channels composed of connexin proteins, which mediate the direct passage of small molecules from one cell to the next. They are involved in the regulation of the cell cycle, cell differentiation, and cell signaling. Since the regulation of gap junctions is lost in colorectal cancer cells, the goal of this study is to determine the effect of GJIC restoration in colorectal cancer cells. Gap Junction Activity Assay and protein analysis were performed to evaluate the effects of overexpression of connexin 43 (Cx43) and treatment of PQ1, a small molecule, on GJIC. Overexpression of Cx43 in SW480 colorectal cancer cells causes a 6-fold increase of gap junction activity compared to control. This suggests that overexpressing Cx43 can restore GJIC. Furthermore, small molecule like PQ1 directly targeting gap junction channel was used to increase GJIC. Gap junction enhancers, PQ1, at 200 nM showed a 4-fold increase of gap junction activity in SW480 cells. A shift from the P0 to the P2 isoform of Cx43 was seen after 1 hour treatment with 200 nM PQ1. Overexpression of Cx43 and treatment of PQ1 can directly increase gap junction activity. The findings provide an important implication in which restoration of gap junction activity can be targeted for drug development.

Utilizing Wisconsin Afterschool Programs to Increase Physical Activity in Youth

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cavanagh, Bradley D.; Meinen, Amy

2015-01-01

Background: Approximately 31.7% of children in the United States are overweight or obese. Interventions in the afterschool setting may help combat childhood obesity. Research exists on interventions in school settings, but a few data exist for interventions about afterschool programs. This study investigates increasing physical activity (PA) in…

Ferroxidase activity of apoferritin is increased in the presence of platinum nanoparticles.

PubMed

Sennuga, Afolake; van Marwijk, Jacqueline; Whiteley, Chris G

2012-01-27

The ferroxidase activity of horse spleen apoferritin (HSAF) is increased by nine-fold in the presence of platinum nanoparticles. HSAF was mixed with varying concentrations of K2PtCl4 followed by a 20-fold concentration of sodium borohydride to afford Pt:HSAF nanoparticle complexes in a ratio of between 1:250 and 1:4000. Typical colour changes, from colourless or pale yellow to brown, occurred that were dependent on the amount of platinum present. These complexes were characterized by UV/vis, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared, transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. Transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed that the size of nanoparticles increased as the molar ratio of platinum to HSAF increased with an average size diameter of 2-6 nm generated with HSAF:platinum molar ratios of 1:250-1:4000. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra showed no distinct changes in the structure of HSAF but confirmed that the nanoparticles were attached to the protein. The effect of platinum nanoparticles on the ferroxidase activity of HSAF showed a specific activity of 360 ρmol min(-1) mg(-1), (nine-fold increase over the control) at the molar ratio of HSAF:platinum nanoparticles of 1:1000.

LSD Increases Primary Process Thinking via Serotonin 2A Receptor Activation

PubMed Central

Kraehenmann, Rainer; Pokorny, Dan; Aicher, Helena; Preller, Katrin H.; Pokorny, Thomas; Bosch, Oliver G.; Seifritz, Erich; Vollenweider, Franz X.

2017-01-01

Rationale: Stimulation of serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptors by lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and related compounds such as psilocybin has previously been shown to increase primary process thinking – an ontologically and evolutionary early, implicit, associative, and automatic mode of thinking which is typically occurring during altered states of consciousness such as dreaming. However, it is still largely unknown whether LSD induces primary process thinking under placebo-controlled, standardized experimental conditions and whether these effects are related to subjective experience and 5-HT2A receptor activation. Therefore, this study aimed to test the hypotheses that LSD increases primary process thinking and that primary process thinking depends on 5-HT2A receptor activation and is related to subjective drug effects. Methods: Twenty-five healthy subjects performed an audio-recorded mental imagery task 7 h after drug administration during three drug conditions: placebo, LSD (100 mcg orally) and LSD together with the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist ketanserin (40 mg orally). The main outcome variable in this study was primary index (PI), a formal measure of primary process thinking in the imagery reports. State of consciousness was evaluated using the Altered State of Consciousness (5D-ASC) rating scale. Results: LSD, compared with placebo, significantly increased primary index (p < 0.001, Bonferroni-corrected). The LSD-induced increase in primary index was positively correlated with LSD-induced disembodiment (p < 0.05, Bonferroni-corrected), and blissful state (p < 0.05, Bonferroni-corrected) on the 5D-ASC. Both LSD-induced increases in primary index and changes in state of consciousness were fully blocked by ketanserin. Conclusion: LSD induces primary process thinking via activation of 5-HT2A receptors and in relation to disembodiment and blissful state. Primary process thinking appears to crucially organize inner experiences during both dreams and psychedelic

LSD Increases Primary Process Thinking via Serotonin 2A Receptor Activation.

PubMed

Kraehenmann, Rainer; Pokorny, Dan; Aicher, Helena; Preller, Katrin H; Pokorny, Thomas; Bosch, Oliver G; Seifritz, Erich; Vollenweider, Franz X

2017-01-01

Rationale: Stimulation of serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptors by lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and related compounds such as psilocybin has previously been shown to increase primary process thinking - an ontologically and evolutionary early, implicit, associative, and automatic mode of thinking which is typically occurring during altered states of consciousness such as dreaming. However, it is still largely unknown whether LSD induces primary process thinking under placebo-controlled, standardized experimental conditions and whether these effects are related to subjective experience and 5-HT2A receptor activation. Therefore, this study aimed to test the hypotheses that LSD increases primary process thinking and that primary process thinking depends on 5-HT2A receptor activation and is related to subjective drug effects. Methods: Twenty-five healthy subjects performed an audio-recorded mental imagery task 7 h after drug administration during three drug conditions: placebo, LSD (100 mcg orally) and LSD together with the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist ketanserin (40 mg orally). The main outcome variable in this study was primary index (PI), a formal measure of primary process thinking in the imagery reports. State of consciousness was evaluated using the Altered State of Consciousness (5D-ASC) rating scale. Results: LSD, compared with placebo, significantly increased primary index ( p < 0.001, Bonferroni-corrected). The LSD-induced increase in primary index was positively correlated with LSD-induced disembodiment ( p < 0.05, Bonferroni-corrected), and blissful state ( p < 0.05, Bonferroni-corrected) on the 5D-ASC. Both LSD-induced increases in primary index and changes in state of consciousness were fully blocked by ketanserin. Conclusion: LSD induces primary process thinking via activation of 5-HT2A receptors and in relation to disembodiment and blissful state. Primary process thinking appears to crucially organize inner experiences during both dreams and psychedelic

Increased experience amplifies the activation of task-irrelevant category representations.

PubMed

Wu, Rachel; Pruitt, Zoe; Zinszer, Benjamin D; Cheung, Olivia S

2017-02-01

Prior research has demonstrated the benefits (i.e., task-relevant attentional selection) and costs (i.e., task-irrelevant attentional capture) of prior knowledge on search for an individual target or multiple targets from a category. This study investigated whether the level of experience with particular categories predicts the degree of task-relevant and task-irrelevant activation of item and category representations. Adults with varying levels of dieting experience (measured via 3 subscales of Disinhibition, Restraint, Hunger; Stunkard & Messick, Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 29(1), 71-83, 1985) searched for targets defined as either a specific food item (e.g., carrots), or a category (i.e., any healthy or unhealthy food item). Apart from the target-present trials, in the target-absent "foil" trials, when searching for a specific item (e.g., carrots), irrelevant items from the target's category (e.g., squash) were presented. The ERP (N2pc) results revealed that the activation of task-relevant representations (measured via Exemplar and Category N2pc amplitudes) did not differ based on the degree of experience. Critically, however, increased dieting experience, as revealed by lower Disinhibition scores, predicted activation of task-irrelevant representations (i.e., attentional capture of foils from the target item category). Our results suggest that increased experience with particular categories encourages the rapid activation of category representations even when category information is task irrelevant, and that the N2pc in foil trials could potentially serve as an indication of experience level in future studies on categorization.

High glucose condition increases NADPH oxidase activity in endothelial microparticles that promote vascular inflammation.

PubMed

Jansen, Felix; Yang, Xiaoyan; Franklin, Bernardo S; Hoelscher, Marion; Schmitz, Theresa; Bedorf, Jörg; Nickenig, Georg; Werner, Nikos

2013-04-01

Diabetes is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Circulating endothelial microparticles (EMP) are increased in diabetic patients, but their potential contribution in atherogenesis is unclear. We sought to determine the role of EMP derived under high glucose conditions in the development of atherosclerosis. EMP were generated from human coronary endothelial cells (HCAEC) exposed to high glucose concentrations in order to mimic diabetic conditions. These EMP were defined as 'injured' EMP (iEMP) and their effects were compared with EMP generated from 'healthy' untreated HCAEC. iEMP injection significantly impaired endothelial function in ApoE(-/-) mice compared with EMP and vehicle treatment. Immunofluorescent experiments showed increased macrophage infiltration and adhesion protein expression in atherosclerotic lesions of iEMP-treated ApoE(-/-) mice compared with controls. To further investigate the underlying mechanism of iEMP-induced vascular inflammation, additional in vitro experiments were performed. iEMP, but not EMP, induced activation of HCAEC in a time- and dose-dependent manner and increased monocyte adhesion. Further experiments demonstrated that iEMP induced activation of HCAEC by phosphorylation of p38 into its biologically active form phospho-p38. Inhibition of p38 activation abrogated iEMP-dependent induction of adhesion proteins and monocyte adhesion on HCAEC. Moreover, we could demonstrate that iEMP show increased NADPH oxidase activity and contain significantly higher level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) than EMP. iEMP triggered ROS production in HCAEC and thereby activate p38 in an ROS-dependent manner. High glucose condition increases NADPH oxidase activity in endothelial microparticles that amplify endothelial inflammation and impair endothelial function by promoting activation of the endothelium. These findings provide new insights into the pathogenesis of diabetes-associated atherosclerosis.

Caspase 7: increased expression and activation after traumatic brain injury in rats.

PubMed

Larner, Stephen F; McKinsey, Deborah M; Hayes, Ronald L; W Wang, Kevin K

2005-07-01

Caspases, a cysteine proteinase family, are required for the initiation and execution phases of apoptosis. It has been suggested that caspase 7, an apoptosis executioner implicated in cell death proteolysis, is redundant to the main executioner caspase 3 and it is generally believed that it is not present in the brain or present in only minute amounts with highly restricted activity. Here we report evidence that caspase 7 is up-regulated and activated after traumatic brain injury (TBI) in rats. TBI disrupts homeostasis resulting in pathological apoptotic activation. After controlled cortical impact TBI of adult male rats we observed, by semiquantitative real-time PCR, increased mRNA levels within the traumatized cortex and hippocampus peaking in the former about 5 days post-injury and in the latter within 6-24 h of trauma. The activation of caspase 7 protein after TBI, demonstrated by immunoblot by the increase of the active form of caspase 7 peaking 5 days post-injury in the cortex and hippocampus, was found to be up-regulated in both neurons and astrocytes by immunohistochemistry. These findings, the first to document the up-regulation of caspase 7 in the brain after acute brain injury in rats, suggest that caspase 7 activation could contribute to neuronal cell death on a scale not previously recognized.

Increasing value in plagiocephaly care: a time-driven activity-based costing pilot study.

PubMed

Inverso, Gino; Lappi, Michael D; Flath-Sporn, Susan J; Heald, Ronald; Kim, David C; Meara, John G

2015-06-01

Process management within a health care setting is poorly understood and often leads to an incomplete understanding of the true costs of patient care. Using time-driven activity-based costing methods, we evaluated the high-volume, low-complexity diagnosis of plagiocephaly to increase value within our clinic. A total of 59 plagiocephaly patients were evaluated in phase 1 (n = 31) and phase 2 (n = 28) of this study. During phase 1, a process map was created, encompassing each of the 5 clinicians and administrative personnel delivering 23 unique activities. After analysis of the phase 1 process maps, average times as well as costs of these activities were evaluated for potential modifications in workflow. These modifications were implemented in phase 2 to determine overall impact on visit-time and costs of care. Improvements in patient education, workflow coordination, and examination room allocation were implemented during phase 2, resulting in a reduced patient visit-time of 13:25 (19.9% improvement) and an increased cost of $8.22 per patient (7.7% increase) due to changes in physician process times. However, this increased cost was directly offset by the availability of 2 additional appointments per day, potentially generating $7904 of additional annual revenue. Quantifying the impact of a 19.9% reduction in patient visit-time at an increased cost of 7.7% resulted in an increased value ratio of 1.113. This pilot study effectively demonstrates the novel use of time-driven activity-based costing in combination with the value equation as a metric for continuous process improvement programs within the health care setting.

Mechanisms and functional implications of motoneuron adaptations to increased physical activity.

PubMed

MacDonell, Christopher; Gardiner, Phillip

2018-06-01

Motoneurons demonstrate adaptations in their physiological properties to alterations in chronic activity levels. The most consistent change that appears to result from endurance-type exercise training is the reduced excitatory current required to initiate and maintain rhythmic firing. While the precise mechanisms through which these neurons adapt to activity are currently unknown, evidence exists that adaptation may involve alterations in the expression of genes that code for membrane receptors which can influence the responses of neurons to transmitters during activation. The influence of these adaptations may also extend to the resting condition, where ambient levels of neuroactive substances may influence ion conductances at rest, and thus result in the activation or inhibition of specific ion conductances that underlie the measurements of increased excitability that have been reported for motoneurons in the anesthetised state. We have applied motoneuron excitability and muscle unit contractile changes with endurance training to a mathematical computerised model of motor unit recruitment (Heckman and Binder, 1991). The results from the modelling exercise demonstrate increased task efficiency at relative levels of effort during a submaximal contraction. The physiological impact that nerve and muscle adaptations have on the neuromuscular system during standardized tasks seem to fit with reported changes in motor unit behaviour in trained human subjects.

Increasing Geminid meteor shower activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryabova, G. O.; Rendtel, J.

2018-03-01

Mathematical modelling has shown that activity of the Geminid meteor shower should rise with time, and that was confirmed by analysis of visual observations 1985-2016. We do not expect any outburst activity of the Geminid shower in 2017, even though the asteroid (3200) Phaethon has a close approach to Earth in December of 2017. A small probability to observe dust ejected at perihelia 2009-2016 still exists.

Photocatalytic activity of low temperature oxidized Ti-6Al-4V.

PubMed

Unosson, Erik; Persson, Cecilia; Welch, Ken; Engqvist, Håkan

2012-05-01

Numerous advanced surface modification techniques exist to improve bone integration and antibacterial properties of titanium based implants and prostheses. A simple and straightforward method of obtaining uniform and controlled TiO(2) coatings of devices with complex shapes is H(2)O(2)-oxidation and hot water aging. Based on the photoactivated bactericidal properties of TiO(2), this study was aimed at optimizing the treatment to achieve high photocatalytic activity. Ti-6Al-4V samples were H(2)O(2)-oxidized and hot water aged for up to 24 and 72 h, respectively. Degradation measurements of rhodamine B during UV-A illumination of samples showed a near linear relationship between photocatalytic activity and total treatment time, and a nanoporous coating was observed by scanning electron microscopy. Grazing incidence X-ray diffraction showed a gradual decrease in crystallinity of the surface layer, suggesting that the increase in surface area rather than anatase formation was responsible for the increase in photocatalytic activity.

Sex differences in functional activation patterns revealed by increased emotion processing demands.

PubMed

Hall, Geoffrey B C; Witelson, Sandra F; Szechtman, Henry; Nahmias, Claude

2004-02-09

Two [O(15)] PET studies assessed sex differences regional brain activation in the recognition of emotional stimuli. Study I revealed that the recognition of emotion in visual faces resulted in bilateral frontal activation in women, and unilateral right-sided activation in men. In study II, the complexity of the emotional face task was increased through tje addition of associated auditory emotional stimuli. Men again showed unilateral frontal activation, in this case to the left; whereas women did not show bilateral frontal activation, but showed greater limbic activity. These results suggest that when processing broader cross-modal emotional stimuli, men engage more in associative cognitive strategies while women draw more on primary emotional references.

Activation of mitochondrial calpain and increased cardiac injury: beyond AIF release

PubMed Central

Thompson, Jeremy; Hu, Ying; Lesnefsky, Edward J.

2015-01-01

Calpain 1 (CPN1) is a ubiquitous cysteine protease that exists in both cytosol and cardiac mitochondria. Mitochondrial CPN1 (mit-CPN1) is located in the intermembrane space and matrix. Activation of mit-CPN1 within the intermembrane space increases cardiac injury by releasing apoptosis-inducing factor from mitochondria during ischemia-reperfusion (IR). We asked if activation of mit-CPN1 is involved in mitochondrial injury during IR. MDL-28170 (MDL) was used to inhibit CPN1 in buffer-perfused hearts following 25-min ischemia and 30-min reperfusion. MDL treatment decreased the release of lactate dehydrogenase into coronary effluent compared with untreated hearts, indicating that inhibition of CPN1 decreases cardiac injury. MDL also prevented the cleavage of spectrin (a substrate of CPN1) in cytosol during IR, supporting that MDL treatment decreased cytosolic calpain activation. In addition, MDL markedly improved calcium retention capacity compared with untreated heart, suggesting that MDL treatment decreases mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening. In addition, we found that IR led to decreased complex I activity, whereas inhibition of mit-CPN1 using MDL protected complex I. Pyruvate dehydrogenase content was decreased following IR. However, pyruvate dehydrogenase content was preserved in MDL-treated mitochondria. Taken together, MDL treatment decreased cardiac injury during IR by inhibiting both cytosolic and mit-CPN1. Activation of mit-CPN1 increases cardiac injury during IR by sensitizing mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening and impairing mitochondrial metabolism through damage of complex I. PMID:26637561

Evidence-Based Practice Guideline: Increasing Physical Activity in Schools--Kindergarten through 8th Grade

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bagby, Karen; Adams, Susan

2007-01-01

Because of the growing obesity epidemic across all age groups in the United States, interventions to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviors have become a priority. Evidence is growing that interventions to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviors have positive results and are generally inexpensive to implement.…

Using Stimulus Fading without Escape Extinction to Increase Compliance with Toothbrushing in Children with Autism

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bishop, Michele R.; Kenzer, Amy L.; Coffman, Christine M.; Tarbox, Courtney M.; Tarbox, Jonathan; Lanagan, Taira M.

2013-01-01

Routine toothbrushing is an essential part of good oral hygiene. This study investigated the use of stimulus fading without escape extinction to increase compliance with toothbrushing with three children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A 30-step stimulus fading hierarchy was implemented; gradually increasing the proximity of the toothbrush to…

Development of a universal approach to increase physical activity among adolescents: the GoActive intervention.

PubMed

Corder, Kirsten; Schiff, Annie; Kesten, Joanna M; van Sluijs, Esther M F

2015-08-25

To develop a physical activity (PA) promotion intervention for adolescents using a process addressing gaps in the literature while considering participant engagement. We describe the initial development stages; (1) existing evidence, (2) large scale opinion gathering and (3) developmental qualitative work, aiming (A) to gain insight into how to increase PA among the whole of year 9 (13-14 years-old) by identifying elements for intervention inclusion (B) to improve participant engagement and (C) to develop and refine programme design. Relevant systematic reviews and longitudinal analyses of change were examined. An intervention was developed iteratively with older adolescents (17.3 ± 0.5 years) and teachers, using the following process: (1) focus groups with (A) adolescents (n=26) and (B) teachers (n=4); (2) individual interviews (n=5) with inactive and shy adolescents focusing on engagement and programme acceptability. Qualitative data were analysed thematically. Limitations of the existing literature include lack of evidence on whole population approaches, limited adolescent involvement in intervention development, and poor participant engagement. Qualitative work suggested six themes which may encourage adolescents to do more PA; choice, novelty, mentorship, competition, rewards and flexibility. Teachers discussed time pressures as a barrier to encouraging adolescent PA and suggested between-class competition as a strategy. GoActive aims to increase PA through increased peer support, self-efficacy, group cohesion, self-esteem and friendship quality, and is implemented in tutor groups using a student-led tiered-leadership system. We have followed an evidence-based iterative approach to translate existing evidence into an adolescent PA promotion intervention. Qualitative work with adolescents and teachers supported intervention design and addressed lack of engagement with health promotion programmes within this age group. Future work will examine the feasibility

Development of a universal approach to increase physical activity among adolescents: the GoActive intervention

PubMed Central

Corder, Kirsten; Schiff, Annie; Kesten, Joanna M; van Sluijs, Esther M F

2015-01-01

Objectives To develop a physical activity (PA) promotion intervention for adolescents using a process addressing gaps in the literature while considering participant engagement. We describe the initial development stages; (1) existing evidence, (2) large scale opinion gathering and (3) developmental qualitative work, aiming (A) to gain insight into how to increase PA among the whole of year 9 (13–14 years-old) by identifying elements for intervention inclusion (B) to improve participant engagement and (C) to develop and refine programme design. Methods Relevant systematic reviews and longitudinal analyses of change were examined. An intervention was developed iteratively with older adolescents (17.3±0.5 years) and teachers, using the following process: (1) focus groups with (A) adolescents (n=26) and (B) teachers (n=4); (2) individual interviews (n=5) with inactive and shy adolescents focusing on engagement and programme acceptability. Qualitative data were analysed thematically. Results Limitations of the existing literature include lack of evidence on whole population approaches, limited adolescent involvement in intervention development, and poor participant engagement. Qualitative work suggested six themes which may encourage adolescents to do more PA; choice, novelty, mentorship, competition, rewards and flexibility. Teachers discussed time pressures as a barrier to encouraging adolescent PA and suggested between-class competition as a strategy. GoActive aims to increase PA through increased peer support, self-efficacy, group cohesion, self-esteem and friendship quality, and is implemented in tutor groups using a student-led tiered-leadership system. Conclusions We have followed an evidence-based iterative approach to translate existing evidence into an adolescent PA promotion intervention. Qualitative work with adolescents and teachers supported intervention design and addressed lack of engagement with health promotion programmes within this age group

Increased cell proliferation and neural activity by physostigmine in the telencephalon of adult zebrafish.

PubMed

Lee, Yunkyoung; Lee, Bongkyu; Jeong, Sumin; Park, Ji-Won; Han, Inn-Oc; Lee, Chang-Joong

2016-08-26

Physostigmine, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, is known to affect the brain function in various aspects. This study was conducted to test whether physostigmine affects cell proliferation in the telencephalon of zebrafish. BrdU-labeled cells was prominently observed in the ventral zone of the ventral telencephalon of zebrafish. The increased number of BrdU- and proliferating cell nuclear antigen-labeled cells were shown in zebrafish treated with 200μM physostigmine, which was inhibited by pretreatment with 200μM scopolamine. iNOS mRNA expression was increased in the brain of zebrafish treated with 200μM physostigmine. Consistently, aminoguanidine, an iNOS inhibitor, attenuated the increase in the number of BrdU-labeled cells by physostigmine treatment. Zebrafish also showed seizure-like locomotor activity characterized by a rapid and abrupt movement during a 30min treatment with 200μM physostigmine. Neural activity in response to an electrical stimulus was increased in the isolated telencephalon of zebrafish continuously perfused with 200μM physostigmine. None of the number of BrdU-labeled cells, neural activity, or locomotor activity was affected by treatment with 20μM physostigmine. These results suggest that 200μM physostigmine increased neural activity and induced cell proliferation via nitric oxide production in zebrafish. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Texting to Increase Physical Activity Among Teenagers (TXT Me!): Rationale, Design, and Methods Proposal

PubMed Central

Cantu, Dora; Bhatt, Riddhi; Baranowski, Tom; Rodgers, Wendy; Jago, Russell; Anderson, Barbara; Liu, Yan; Mendoza, Jason A; Tapia, Ramsey; Buday, Richard

2014-01-01

Background Physical activity decreases from childhood through adulthood. Among youth, teenagers (teens) achieve the lowest levels of physical activity, and high school age youth are particularly at risk of inactivity. Effective methods are needed to increase youth physical activity in a way that can be maintained through adulthood. Because teens text a great deal, text messages promoting walking, a low cost physical activity, may be an effective method for promoting sustainable physical activity. Objective The objective of our study was to determine the effect of pedometers, self selected step goals, and texts grounded in the self-determination theory (SDT) on physical activity among the teens. Methods “TXT Me!” was a 12 week intervention that texted 14-17 year olds to increase their daily physical activity by increasing the number of steps they take each day. The intervention was grounded in the SDT. Formative research with the teens helped construct the intervention and develop the texts. A total of 84 texts were developed (12 to set a step goal, and 72 promoting autonomy, competence, and relatedness). The pilot evaluation used a four group, randomized design (n=160). After baseline data collection, the participants were randomized to one of four conditions (no treatment control, pedometer only, pedometer + weekly prompts, pedometer + weekly prompts + SDT grounded texts). Data were collected at baseline and immediately upon completion of the study. The primary outcome was physical activity, measured by 7 days of accelerometry. Basic psychological needs, physical activity motivation, process evaluation, and program satisfaction data were also collected. Results To our knowledge, this is one of the first studies to explore the use of stand alone, SDT grounded texts, supported by pedometers and prompts to set a self selected step goal, as a method for increasing physical activity among teens. Conclusions This pilot study will contribute valuable information

Anti-ghrelin Spiegelmer inhibits exogenous ghrelin-induced increases in food intake, hoarding, and neural activation, but not food deprivation-induced increases

PubMed Central

Teubner, Brett J. W.

2013-01-01

Circulating concentrations of the stomach-derived “hunger-peptide” ghrelin increase in direct proportion to the time since the last meal. Exogenous ghrelin also increases food intake in rodents and humans, suggesting ghrelin may increase post-fast ingestive behaviors. Food intake after food deprivation is increased by laboratory rats and mice, but not by humans (despite dogma to the contrary) or by Siberian hamsters; instead, humans and Siberian hamsters increase food hoarding, suggesting the latter as a model of fasting-induced changes in human ingestive behavior. Exogenous ghrelin markedly increases food hoarding by ad libitum-fed Siberian hamsters similarly to that after food deprivation, indicating sufficiency. Here, we tested the necessity of ghrelin to increase food foraging, food hoarding, and food intake, and neural activation [c-Fos immunoreactivity (c-Fos-ir)] using anti-ghrelin Spiegelmer NOX-B11–2 (SPM), an l-oligonucleotide that specifically binds active ghrelin, inhibiting peptide-receptor interaction. SPM blocked exogenous ghrelin-induced increases in food hoarding the first 2 days after injection, and foraging and food intake at 1–2 h and 2–4 h, respectively, and inhibited hypothalamic c-Fos-ir. SPM given every 24 h across 48-h food deprivation inconsistently inhibited food hoarding after refeeding and c-Fos-ir, similarly to inabilities to do so in laboratory rats and mice. These results suggest that ghrelin may not be necessary for food deprivation-induced foraging and hoarding and neural activation. A possible compensatory response, however, may underlie these findings because SPM treatment led to marked increases in circulating ghrelin concentrations. Collectively, these results show that SPM can block exogenous ghrelin-induced ingestive behaviors, but the necessity of ghrelin for food deprivation-induced ingestive behaviors remains unclear. PMID:23804279

Instant Recess®: a practical tool for increasing physical activity during the school day.

PubMed

Whitt-Glover, Melicia C; Ham, Sandra A; Yancey, Antronette K

2011-01-01

An increased prevalence of overweight/obesity among children has led to school district level policies to increase physical activity (PA) among elementary school students. Interventions are needed that increase activity levels without sacrificing time spent in academics. We evaluated a policy implementation intervention for to increase in-school PA in elementary schools in Forsyth County, North Carolina, in a randomized study with a delayed intervention control group. The study included third- through fifth-grade classrooms in eight elementary schools. Instant Recess® was used to introduce 10-minute PA breaks in classrooms on schedules determined by teachers. Direct observation was used to measure activity levels, other student behaviors, and teacher behaviors related to PA in the classrooms. Twenty-eight visits to schools were made during the spring and fall semesters of 2009. At baseline 11% to 44% of intervention and control schools were engaged in classroom-based PA. PA increased from baseline to spring follow-up in intervention schools and was maintained the following fall. Control schools decreased PA from baseline to spring and increased PA once they began the intervention. Students in classrooms engaged in Instant Recess exhibited statistically significant increases in light (51%) and moderate-intensity (16%) PA and increases in time spent in on-task behavior (11%). Control schools experienced similar benefits after they began implementing Instant Recess. Instant Recess is useful for increasing PA and improving behavior among elementary school children. Additional research may be needed to understand how to create policies supporting classroom activity breaks and how to assess policy adherence.

Long-term aerobic exercise increases redox-active iron through nitric oxide in rat hippocampus.

PubMed

Chen, Qian; Xiao, De-Sheng

2014-01-30

Adult hippocampus is highly vulnerable to iron-induced oxidative stress. Aerobic exercise has been proposed to reduce oxidative stress but the findings in the hippocampus are conflicting. This study aimed to observe the changes of redox-active iron and concomitant regulation of cellular iron homeostasis in the hippocampus by aerobic exercise, and possible regulatory effect of nitric oxide (NO). A randomized controlled study was designed in the rats with swimming exercise treatment (for 3 months) and/or an unselective inhibitor of NO synthase (NOS) (L-NAME) treatment. The results from the bleomycin-detectable iron assay showed additional redox-active iron in the hippocampus by exercise treatment. The results from nonheme iron content assay, combined with the redox-active iron content, showed increased storage iron content by exercise treatment. NOx (nitrate plus nitrite) assay showed increased NOx content by exercise treatment. The results from the Western blot assay showed decreased ferroportin expression, no changes of TfR1 and DMT1 expressions, increased IRP1 and IRP2 expression, increased expressions of eNOS and nNOS rather than iNOS. In these effects of exercise treatment, the increased redox-active iron content, storage iron content, IRP1 and IRP2 expressions were completely reversed by L-NAME treatment, and decreased ferroportin expression was in part reversed by L-NAME. L-NAME treatment completely inhibited increased NOx and both eNOS and nNOS expression in the hippocampus. Our findings suggest that aerobic exercise could increase the redox-active iron in the hippocampus, indicating an increase in the capacity to generate hydroxyl radicals through the Fenton reactions, and aerobic exercise-induced iron accumulation in the hippocampus might mainly result from the role of the endogenous NO. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Increased sales and thefts of candy as a function of sales promotion activities: Preliminary findings

PubMed Central

Carter, Ned; Kindstedt, Angeli; Melin, Lennart

1995-01-01

We used an A-B-A design to evaluate the effects of two commonly used promotional activities—price reduction and increased exposure, in combination and separately—on sales and thefts of candy at a grocery store. The combination of activities and the increased exposure condition produced the greatest increases in sales. The combination of activities was also associated with the greatest increase in thefts. PMID:16795853

Gradual cessation of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) treatment may prevent rebound acid secretion, measured by the alkaline tide method, in dyspepsia and reflux patients.

PubMed

Niv, Yaron

2011-09-01

Gastro esophageal reflux disease and ulcer related or non-ulcer dyspepsia, attacks 20% of the Western population. These millions of patients are treated continuously with PPI for different periods, many for many years. Recently, rebound acid hypersecretion was recognized as a major clinical event after cessation of PPI therapy. Sustained hypergastrinemia due to daily PPI therapy causes increased acid-secretory capacity that appears when the drug is stopped. The transient increase in blood and urinary pH following gastric secretion has been termed the alkaline tide phenomenon. Carbonic acid, formed in the presence of the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, neutralizes intracellular hydroxyl ions produced as a result of luminal acid secretion. The bicarbonate generated is removed from the cell via the baso-lateral chloride bicarbonate exchanger. We have shown in several studies that this phenomenon parallels acid secretion. Thus, stimulation of acid secretion with test meal increased base excess maximally after 45 min and these changes parallel peak acid output measured in gastric aspirate. We hypothesize that gradual step down cessation of PPI will prevent this clinical relevant event. By measuring alkaline tide after PPI cessation we may prove this hypothesis. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Why Does Sleep Slow-Wave Activity Increase After Extended Wake? Assessing the Effects of Increased Cortical Firing During Wake and Sleep

PubMed Central

Rodriguez, Alexander V.; Funk, Chadd M.; Vyazovskiy, Vladyslav V.; Nir, Yuval; Tononi, Giulio

2016-01-01

During non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, cortical neurons alternate between ON periods of firing and OFF periods of silence. This bi-stability, which is largely synchronous across neurons, is reflected in the EEG as slow waves. Slow-wave activity (SWA) increases with wake duration and declines homeostatically during sleep, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. One possibility is neuronal “fatigue”: high, sustained firing in wake would force neurons to recover with more frequent and longer OFF periods during sleep. Another possibility is net synaptic potentiation during wake: stronger coupling among neurons would lead to greater synchrony and therefore higher SWA. Here, we obtained a comparable increase in sustained firing (6 h) in cortex by: (1) keeping mice awake by exposure to novel objects to promote plasticity and (2) optogenetically activating a local population of cortical neurons at wake-like levels during sleep. Sleep after extended wake led to increased SWA, higher synchrony, and more time spent OFF, with a positive correlation between SWA, synchrony, and OFF periods. Moreover, time spent OFF was correlated with cortical firing during prior wake. After local optogenetic stimulation, SWA and cortical synchrony decreased locally, time spent OFF did not change, and local SWA was not correlated with either measure. Moreover, laser-induced cortical firing was not correlated with time spent OFF afterward. Overall, these results suggest that high sustained firing per se may not be the primary determinant of SWA increases observed after extended wake. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT A long-standing hypothesis is that neurons fire less during slow-wave sleep to recover from the “fatigue” accrued during wake, when overall synaptic activity is higher than in sleep. This idea, however, has rarely been tested and other factors, namely increased cortical synchrony, could explain why sleep slow-wave activity (SWA) is higher after extended wake. We forced

Why Does Sleep Slow-Wave Activity Increase After Extended Wake? Assessing the Effects of Increased Cortical Firing During Wake and Sleep.

PubMed

Rodriguez, Alexander V; Funk, Chadd M; Vyazovskiy, Vladyslav V; Nir, Yuval; Tononi, Giulio; Cirelli, Chiara

2016-12-07

During non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, cortical neurons alternate between ON periods of firing and OFF periods of silence. This bi-stability, which is largely synchronous across neurons, is reflected in the EEG as slow waves. Slow-wave activity (SWA) increases with wake duration and declines homeostatically during sleep, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. One possibility is neuronal "fatigue": high, sustained firing in wake would force neurons to recover with more frequent and longer OFF periods during sleep. Another possibility is net synaptic potentiation during wake: stronger coupling among neurons would lead to greater synchrony and therefore higher SWA. Here, we obtained a comparable increase in sustained firing (6 h) in cortex by: (1) keeping mice awake by exposure to novel objects to promote plasticity and (2) optogenetically activating a local population of cortical neurons at wake-like levels during sleep. Sleep after extended wake led to increased SWA, higher synchrony, and more time spent OFF, with a positive correlation between SWA, synchrony, and OFF periods. Moreover, time spent OFF was correlated with cortical firing during prior wake. After local optogenetic stimulation, SWA and cortical synchrony decreased locally, time spent OFF did not change, and local SWA was not correlated with either measure. Moreover, laser-induced cortical firing was not correlated with time spent OFF afterward. Overall, these results suggest that high sustained firing per se may not be the primary determinant of SWA increases observed after extended wake. A long-standing hypothesis is that neurons fire less during slow-wave sleep to recover from the "fatigue" accrued during wake, when overall synaptic activity is higher than in sleep. This idea, however, has rarely been tested and other factors, namely increased cortical synchrony, could explain why sleep slow-wave activity (SWA) is higher after extended wake. We forced neurons in the mouse cortex to fire

[Creating a "Health Promotion Checklist for Residents" Attempt to promote healthy activities].

PubMed

Abe, Akemi; Masaki, Naoko; Fukuizumi, Maiko; Hashimoto, Shuji

2015-01-01

To create a "Health Promotion Checklist for Residents" to help promote healthy habits among local residents. First, we investigated items for a health promotion checklist in the Health Japan 21 (2(nd) edition) and other references. Next, we conducted a questionnaire survey including these checklist items in August 2012. The study subjects were randomly selected Hatsukaichi city residents aged ≥20 years. Anonymous survey forms explaining this study were mailed to the investigated subjects and recovered in return envelopes. Data were compared by sex and age group. We created a checklist comprising a 23-item health promotion evaluation index with established scoring. There were 33 questions regarding health checkups; cancer screenings; dental checkups, blood pressure; glycated hemoglobin or blood glucose; dyslipidemia; body mass index; number of remaining teeth; breakfast, vegetable, fruit, and salt intake; nutrient balance; exercise; smoking; drinking; sleep; stress; and mental state. There were also questions on outings, community involvement, activities to improve health, and community connections. The questions were classified into six categories: health management, physical health, dietary and exercise habits, indulgences, mental health, and social activities. Of the 4,002 distributed survey forms, 1,719 valid responses were returned (recovery rate, 43.0%). The mean score by category was 1.69 (N=1,343) for health management, 6.52 (N=1,444) for physical health, 12.97 (N=1,511) for dietary and exercise habits, and 2.29 (N=1,518) for indulgences, all of which were higher for women, and 5.81 (N=1,469) for mental health, which was higher for men. The health management scores were higher among subjects in their 40s and 50s. The physical health score increased gradually with age from the 70 s and older to the 20 s, whereas the dietary and exercise habits increased gradually from the 20 s to the 70 s and older. The 20 s had high scores for indulgences, while mental

p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase-induced nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell activity is required for neuroprotection in retinal ischemia/reperfusion injury.

PubMed

Jiang, Shao-Yun; Zou, Yuan-Yuan; Wang, Jian-Tao

2012-01-01

In our previous study, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) played a neuroprotective role in retinal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in rats. However, the mechanism of NF-κB neuroprotection is still unclear. We hypothesize that p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) is expressed and NF-κB activity induced by p38 MAPK plays a neuroprotective role through antiapoptotic genes (B-cell lymphoma [Bcl]-2 and Bcl-XL) in retinal cells in retinal I/R injury. Retinal ischemia was induced by elevating intraocular pressure in rats. After retinal I/R, the p38 MAPK, NF-κB p65, Bcl-2, and Bcl-XL mRNA levels were measured with real-time polymerase chain reaction. NF-κB p65 activity was assessed with NF-κB enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in retinal I/R injury and after application of the p38 MAPK inhibitor (SB203580). Furthermore, SB203580 and NF-κB p65 short interfering RNA (siRNA) were used in retinal I/R injury to examine the effects on Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL levels and nucleosome release in the retina and cell survival in the ganglion cell layer. The mRNA levels of NF-κB p65 and p38 MAPK reached a peak at 6 h after retinal I/R and then decreased gradually. The mRNA levels of Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL significantly increased at 2, 4, and 6 h, peaked at 8 h, and decreased gradually, but remained at a higher level compared with the normal control, which was accompanied by an increase in NF-κB p65 in nuclear extracts. After application of SB203580, the increase in the NF-κB p65 levels in the nucleus induced with I/R was completely abolished, and the mRNA expression of Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL decreased significantly compared with the I/R controls. In addition, NF-κB p65 siRNA inhibited Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL expression. Inhibition of the p38 MAPK-NF-κB pathway (using SB203580 or NF-κB p65 siRNA) increased retinal nucleosome release and decreased the number of ganglion cells. These findings provide evidence of crosstalk between p38 MAPK and NF-κB p65 and

p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase–induced nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell activity is required for neuroprotection in retinal ischemia/reperfusion injury

PubMed Central

Jiang, Shao-Yun; Zou, Yuan-Yuan

2012-01-01

Purpose In our previous study, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) played a neuroprotective role in retinal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in rats. However, the mechanism of NF-κB neuroprotection is still unclear. We hypothesize that p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) is expressed and NF-κB activity induced by p38 MAPK plays a neuroprotective role through antiapoptotic genes (B-cell lymphoma [Bcl]-2 and Bcl-XL) in retinal cells in retinal I/R injury. Methods Retinal ischemia was induced by elevating intraocular pressure in rats. After retinal I/R, the p38 MAPK, NF-κB p65, Bcl-2, and Bcl-XL mRNA levels were measured with real-time polymerase chain reaction. NF-κB p65 activity was assessed with NF-κB enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in retinal I/R injury and after application of the p38 MAPK inhibitor (SB203580). Furthermore, SB203580 and NF-κB p65 short interfering RNA (siRNA) were used in retinal I/R injury to examine the effects on Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL levels and nucleosome release in the retina and cell survival in the ganglion cell layer. Results The mRNA levels of NF-κB p65 and p38 MAPK reached a peak at 6 h after retinal I/R and then decreased gradually. The mRNA levels of Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL significantly increased at 2, 4, and 6 h, peaked at 8 h, and decreased gradually, but remained at a higher level compared with the normal control, which was accompanied by an increase in NF-κB p65 in nuclear extracts. After application of SB203580, the increase in the NF-κB p65 levels in the nucleus induced with I/R was completely abolished, and the mRNA expression of Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL decreased significantly compared with the I/R controls. In addition, NF-κB p65 siRNA inhibited Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL expression. Inhibition of the p38 MAPK-NF-κB pathway (using SB203580 or NF-κB p65 siRNA) increased retinal nucleosome release and decreased the number of ganglion cells. Conclusions These findings provide evidence of crosstalk

Inflammatory Stimuli Increase Progesterone Receptor-A Stability and Transrepressive Activity in Myometrial Cells

PubMed Central

Peters, Gregory A.; Yi, Lijuan; Skomorovska-Prokvolit, Yelenna; Patel, Bansari; Amini, Peyvand; Tan, Huiqing

2017-01-01

The steroid hormone progesterone acting via the nuclear progesterone receptor (PR) isoforms, progesterone receptor A (PR-A) and progesterone receptor B (PR-B), is essential for the maintenance of uterine quiescence during pregnancy. Inhibition of PR signaling augments uterine contractility and induces labor. Human parturition is thought to be triggered by modulation of PR signaling in myometrial cells to induce a functional progesterone withdrawal. One mechanism for functional progesterone withdrawal is increased abundance of PR-A, which decreases progesterone responsiveness by inhibiting the transcriptional activity of PR-B. Human parturition also involves tissue-level inflammation within the myometrium. This study examined the control of PR-A abundance and transrepressive activity in myometrial cells and the role of the inflammatory stimuli in the form of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in these processes. We found that abundance of PR-A was markedly increased by progesterone and by exposure to IL-1β and LPS via posttranslational mechanisms involving increased PR-A protein stability. In contrast, progesterone decreased abundance of PR-B by increasing its rate of degradation. Together, progesterone and proinflammatory stimuli induced a PR-A–dominant state in myometrial cells similar to that observed in term laboring myometrium. IL-1β and LPS also increased the capacity for PR-A to inhibit the transcriptional activity of PR-B. Taken together, our data suggest that proinflammatory stimuli increase the steady-state levels of PR-A and its transrepressive activity in myometrial cells and support the hypothesis that tissue-level inflammation triggers parturition by inducing PR-A–mediated functional progesterone withdrawal. PMID:27886516

Increased collagenase and dipeptidyl peptidase I activity in leucocytes from healthy elderly people

PubMed Central

Llorente, L; Richaud-Patin, Y; Díaz-Borjón, A; Jakez-Ocampo, J; Alvarado-De La Barrera, C

1999-01-01

The incidence of infectious diseases increases with ageing. The enzymatic activity of leucocytes may have a relevant role in the morbidity and mortality due to infections in the elderly. In this study we have compared the activity of enzymes involved in the inflammatory response in leucocytes from young and elderly women. A total of 35 healthy females was studied, 20 volunteers aged 78–98 years (mean 89.1 years) and 15 young controls aged 19–34 years (mean 26 years). All of them were in good clinical condition, without any acute or chronic disease. Intracellular enzyme activity was analysed by flow cytometry in leucocytes from young and elderly women. The enzyme substrates employed were for oxidative burst, l-aminopeptidase, collagenase, cathepsin B, C, D and, G and dipeptidyl peptidase I. The intracellular enzyme activity assessed by flow cytometry in leucocytes from young and elderly women was similar, as far as oxidative burst, l-aminopeptidase, cathepsin B, C, D and G are concerned. An increased collagenase activity was detected in granulocytes from elders. The mean fluorescence channels for this enzyme corresponded to 86 ± 23 and 60 ± 15 in cells from elders and controls, respectively (P = 0.01224). An increased dipeptidyl peptidase I activity was detected in lymphocytes from elderly women. The corresponding values for this enzyme in elders and the young were 65.9 ± 43.3 and 17.3 ± 5, respectively (P = 0.0036). The proper functional activity of intracellular enzymes involved in inflammatory responses is likely to be determinant for successful ageing. PMID:10361229

Increased premotor cortex activation in high functioning autism during action observation.

PubMed

Perkins, Tom J; Bittar, Richard G; McGillivray, Jane A; Cox, Ivanna I; Stokes, Mark A

2015-04-01

The mirror neuron (MN) hypothesis of autism has received considerable attention, but to date has produced inconsistent findings. Using functional MRI, participants with high functioning autism or Asperger's syndrome were compared to typically developing individuals (n=12 in each group). Participants passively observed hand gestures that included waving, pointing, and grasping. Concerning the MN network, both groups activated similar regions including prefrontal, inferior parietal and superior temporal regions, with the autism group demonstrating significantly greater activation in the dorsal premotor cortex. Concerning other regions, participants with autism demonstrated increased activity in the anterior cingulate and medial frontal gyrus, and reduced activation in calcarine, cuneus, and middle temporal gyrus. These results suggest that during observation of hand gestures, frontal cortex activation is affected in autism, which we suggest may be linked to abnormal functioning of the MN system. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Eight weeks of local vibration training increases dorsiflexor muscle cortical voluntary activation.

PubMed

Souron, Robin; Farabet, Adrien; Féasson, Léonard; Belli, Alain; Millet, Guillaume Y; Lapole, Thomas

2017-06-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of an 8-wk local vibration training (LVT) program on functional and corticospinal properties of dorsiflexor muscles. Forty-four young subjects were allocated to a training (VIB, n = 22) or control (CON, n = 22 ) group. The VIB group performed twenty-four 1-h sessions (3 sessions/wk) of 100-Hz vibration applied to the right tibialis anterior. Both legs were tested in each group before training (PRE), after 4 (MID) and 8 (POST) wk of training, and 2 wk after training (POST 2W ). Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) torque was assessed, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) was used to evaluate cortical voluntary activation (VA TMS ), motor evoked potential (MEP), cortical silent period (CSP), and input-output curve parameters. MVC was significantly increased for VIB at MID for right and left legs [+7.4% ( P = 0.001) and +6.2% ( P < 0.01), respectively] and remained significantly greater than PRE at POST [+12.0% ( P < 0.001) and +10.1% ( P < 0.001), respectively]. VA TMS was significantly increased for right and left legs at MID [+4.4% ( P < 0.01) and +4.7% ( P < 0.01), respectively] and at POST [+4.9% ( P = 0.001) and +6.2% ( P = 0.001), respectively]. These parameters remained enhanced in both legs at POST 2W MEP and CSP recorded during MVC and input-output curve parameters did not change at any time point for either leg. Despite no changes in excitability or inhibition being observed, LVT seems to be a promising method to improve strength through an increase of maximal voluntary activation, i.e., neural adaptations. Local vibration may thus be further considered for clinical or aging populations. NEW & NOTEWORTHY The effects of a local vibration training program on cortical voluntary activation measured with transcranial magnetic stimulation were assessed for the first time in dorsiflexors, a functionally important muscle group. We observed that training increased maximal voluntary strength likely because of

Gradual onset and recovery of the Younger Dryas abrupt climate event in the tropics.

PubMed

Partin, J W; Quinn, T M; Shen, C-C; Okumura, Y; Cardenas, M B; Siringan, F P; Banner, J L; Lin, K; Hu, H-M; Taylor, F W

2015-09-02

Proxy records of temperature from the Atlantic clearly show that the Younger Dryas was an abrupt climate change event during the last deglaciation, but records of hydroclimate are underutilized in defining the event. Here we combine a new hydroclimate record from Palawan, Philippines, in the tropical Pacific, with previously published records to highlight a difference between hydroclimate and temperature responses to the Younger Dryas. Although the onset and termination are synchronous across the records, tropical hydroclimate changes are more gradual (>100 years) than the abrupt (10-100 years) temperature changes in the northern Atlantic Ocean. The abrupt recovery of Greenland temperatures likely reflects changes in regional sea ice extent. Proxy data and transient climate model simulations support the hypothesis that freshwater forced a reduction in the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation, thereby causing the Younger Dryas. However, changes in ocean overturning may not produce the same effects globally as in Greenland.

Deletion of creB in Aspergillus oryzae increases secreted hydrolytic enzyme activity.

PubMed

Hunter, A J; Morris, T A; Jin, B; Saint, C P; Kelly, J M

2013-09-01

Aspergillus oryzae has been used in the food and beverage industry for centuries, and industrial strains have been produced by multiple rounds of selection. Targeted gene deletion technology is particularly useful for strain improvement in such strains, particularly when they do not have a well-characterized meiotic cycle. Phenotypes of an Aspergillus nidulans strain null for the CreB deubiquitinating enzyme include effects on growth and repression, including increased activity levels of various enzymes. We show that Aspergillus oryzae contains a functional homologue of the CreB deubiquitinating enzyme and that a null strain shows increased activity levels of industrially important secreted enzymes, including cellulases, xylanases, amylases, and proteases, as well as alleviated inhibition of spore germination on glucose medium. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis showed that the increased levels of enzyme activity in both Aspergillus nidulans and Aspergillus oryzae are mirrored at the transcript level, indicating transcriptional regulation. We report that Aspergillus oryzae DAR3699, originally isolated from soy fermentation, has a similar phenotype to that of a creB deletion mutant of the RIB40 strain, and it contains a mutation in the creB gene. Collectively, the results for Aspergillus oryzae, Aspergillus nidulans, Trichoderma reesei, and Penicillium decumbens show that deletion of creB may be broadly useful in diverse fungi for increasing production of a variety of enzymes.

Deletion of creB in Aspergillus oryzae Increases Secreted Hydrolytic Enzyme Activity

PubMed Central

Hunter, A. J.; Morris, T. A.; Jin, B.; Saint, C. P.

2013-01-01

Aspergillus oryzae has been used in the food and beverage industry for centuries, and industrial strains have been produced by multiple rounds of selection. Targeted gene deletion technology is particularly useful for strain improvement in such strains, particularly when they do not have a well-characterized meiotic cycle. Phenotypes of an Aspergillus nidulans strain null for the CreB deubiquitinating enzyme include effects on growth and repression, including increased activity levels of various enzymes. We show that Aspergillus oryzae contains a functional homologue of the CreB deubiquitinating enzyme and that a null strain shows increased activity levels of industrially important secreted enzymes, including cellulases, xylanases, amylases, and proteases, as well as alleviated inhibition of spore germination on glucose medium. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis showed that the increased levels of enzyme activity in both Aspergillus nidulans and Aspergillus oryzae are mirrored at the transcript level, indicating transcriptional regulation. We report that Aspergillus oryzae DAR3699, originally isolated from soy fermentation, has a similar phenotype to that of a creB deletion mutant of the RIB40 strain, and it contains a mutation in the creB gene. Collectively, the results for Aspergillus oryzae, Aspergillus nidulans, Trichoderma reesei, and Penicillium decumbens show that deletion of creB may be broadly useful in diverse fungi for increasing production of a variety of enzymes. PMID:23835170

Modafinil enhances thalamocortical activity by increasing neuronal electrotonic coupling

PubMed Central

Urbano, Francisco J.; Leznik, Elena; Llinás, Rodolfo R.

2007-01-01

Modafinil (Provigil, Modiodal), an antinarcoleptic and mood-enhancing drug, is shown here to sharpen thalamocortical activity and to increase electrical coupling between cortical interneurons and between nerve cells in the inferior olivary nucleus. After irreversible pharmacological block of connexin permeability (i.e., by using either 18β-glycyrrhetinic derivatives or mefloquine), modafinil restored electrotonic coupling within 30 min. It was further established that this restoration is implemented through a Ca2+/calmodulin protein kinase II-dependent step. PMID:17640897

Preliminary efficacy of prize-based contingency management to increase activity levels in healthy adults.

PubMed

Washington, Wendy Donlin; Banna, Kelly M; Gibson, Amanda L

2014-01-01

An estimated 30% of Americans meet the criteria for obesity. Effective, low-cost interventions to increase physical activity are needed to prevent and treat obesity. In this study, 11 healthy adults wore Fitbit accelerometers for 3 weeks. During the initial baseline, subjects earned prize draws for wearing the Fitbit. During intervention, percentile schedules were used to calculate individual prize-draw criteria. The final week was a return to baseline. Four subjects increased step counts as a result of the intervention. A bout analysis of interresponse times revealed that subjects increased overall step counts by increasing daily minutes active and within-bout response rates and decreasing pauses between bouts of activity. Strategies to improve effectiveness are suggested, such as modification of reinforcement probability and amount and identification of the function of periods of inactivity. © Society for the Experimental Analysis of Behavior.

Effectiveness of activity trackers with and without incentives to increase physical activity (TRIPPA): a randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Finkelstein, Eric A; Haaland, Benjamin A; Bilger, Marcel; Sahasranaman, Aarti; Sloan, Robert A; Nang, Ei Ei Khaing; Evenson, Kelly R

2016-12-01

Despite the increasing popularity of activity trackers, little evidence exists that they can improve health outcomes. We aimed to investigate whether use of activity trackers, alone or in combination with cash incentives or charitable donations, lead to increases in physical activity and improvements in health outcomes. In this randomised controlled trial, employees from 13 organisations in Singapore were randomly assigned (1:1:1:1) with a computer generated assignment schedule to control (no tracker or incentives), Fitbit Zip activity tracker, tracker plus charity incentives, or tracker plus cash incentives. Participants had to be English speaking, full-time employees, aged 21-65 years, able to walk at least ten steps continuously, and non-pregnant. Incentives were tied to weekly steps, and the primary outcome, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) bout min per week, was measured via a sealed accelerometer and assessed on an intention-to-treat basis at 6 months (end of intervention) and 12 months (after a 6 month post-intervention follow-up period). Other outcome measures included steps, participants meeting 70 000 steps per week target, and health-related outcomes including weight, blood pressure, and quality-of-life measures. This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01855776. Between June 13, 2013, and Aug 15, 2014, 800 participants were recruited and randomly assigned to the control (n=201), Fitbit (n=203), charity (n=199), and cash (n=197) groups. At 6 months, compared with control, the cash group logged an additional 29 MVPA bout min per week (95% CI 10-47; p=0·0024) and the charity group an additional 21 MVPA bout min per week (2-39; p=0·0310); the difference between Fitbit only and control was not significant (16 MVPA bout min per week [-2 to 35; p=0·0854]). Increases in MVPA bout min per week in the cash and charity groups were not significantly greater than that of the Fitbit group. At 12 months, the Fitbit group logged an

Cyclic strain increases protease-activated receptor-1 expression in vascular smooth muscle cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nguyen, K. T.; Frye, S. R.; Eskin, S. G.; Patterson, C.; Runge, M. S.; McIntire, L. V.

2001-01-01

Cyclic strain regulates many vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) functions through changing gene expression. This study investigated the effects of cyclic strain on protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR-1) expression in VSMCs and the possible signaling pathways involved, on the basis of the hypothesis that cyclic strain would enhance PAR-1 expression, reflecting increased thrombin activity. Uniaxial cyclic strain (1 Hz, 20%) of cells cultured on elastic membranes induced a 2-fold increase in both PAR-1 mRNA and protein levels. Functional activity of PAR-1, as assessed by cell proliferation in response to thrombin, was also increased by cyclic strain. In addition, treatment of cells with antioxidants or an NADPH oxidase inhibitor blocked strain-induced PAR-1 expression. Preincubation of cells with protein kinase inhibitors (staurosporine or Ro 31-8220) enhanced strain-increased PAR-1 expression, whereas inhibitors of NO synthase, tyrosine kinase, and mitogen-activated protein kinases had no effect. Cyclic strain in the presence of basic fibroblast growth factor induced PAR-1 mRNA levels beyond the effect of cyclic strain alone, whereas no additive effect was observed between cyclic strain and platelet-derived growth factor-AB. Our findings that cyclic strain upregulates PAR-1 mRNA expression but that shear stress downregulates this gene in VSMCs provide an opportunity to elucidate signaling differences by which VSMCs respond to different mechanical forces.

Enhanced Locomotor Activity Is Required to Exert Dietary Restriction-Dependent Increase of Stress Resistance in Drosophila.

PubMed

Ghimire, Saurav; Kim, Man Su

2015-01-01

Dietary restriction (DR) is known to be one of the most effective interventions to increase stress resistance, yet the mechanisms remain elusive. One of the most obvious DR-induced changes in phenotype is an increase in locomotor activity. Although it is conceptually perceivable that nutritional scarcity should prompt enhanced foraging behavior to garner additional dietary resources, the significance of enhanced movement activity has not been associated with the DR-dependent increase of stress resistance. In this study, we confirmed that flies raised on DR exhibited enhanced locomotive activity and increased stress resistance. Excision of fly wings minimized the DR-induced increase in locomotive activity, which resulted in attenuation of the DR-dependent increase of stress resistance. The possibility that wing clipping counteracts the DR by coercing flies to have more intake was ruled out since it did not induce any weight gain. Rather it was found that elimination of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that is enhanced by DR-induced upregulation of expression of antioxidant genes was significantly reduced by wing clipping. Collectively, our data suggests that DR increased stress resistance by increasing the locomotor activity, which upregulated expression of protective genes including, but not limited to, ROS scavenger system.

Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulation Increases Hippocampal Activity during Probabilistic Association Learning in Schizophrenia

PubMed Central

Kindler, Jochen; Weickert, Cynthia Shannon; Skilleter, Ashley J; Catts, Stanley V; Lenroot, Rhoshel; Weickert, Thomas W

2015-01-01

People with schizophrenia show probabilistic association learning impairment in conjunction with abnormal neural activity. The selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) raloxifene preserves neural activity during memory in healthy older men and improves memory in schizophrenia. Here, we tested the extent to which raloxifene modifies neural activity during learning in schizophrenia. Nineteen people with schizophrenia participated in a twelve-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over adjunctive treatment trial of the SERM raloxifene administered orally at 120 mg daily to assess brain activity during probabilistic association learning using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Raloxifene improved probabilistic association learning and significantly increased fMRI BOLD activity in the hippocampus and parahippocampal gyrus relative to placebo. A separate region of interest confirmatory analysis in 21 patients vs 36 healthy controls showed a positive association between parahippocampal neural activity and learning in patients, but no such relationship in the parahippocampal gyrus of healthy controls. Thus, selective estrogen receptor modulation by raloxifene concurrently increases activity in the parahippocampal gyrus and improves probabilistic association learning in schizophrenia. These results support a role for estrogen receptor modulation of mesial temporal lobe neural activity in the remediation of learning disabilities in both men and women with schizophrenia. PMID:25829142

Potential to increase active commuting level in university area (Case study: Universitas Gadjah Mada)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Devi, M. K.

2017-06-01

In order to alleviate the negative impacts of motorized vehicle use as well as create sustainable environment within campus area, it is pivotal to encourage mode shifting among university students. Active transport modes such as walking, cycling, and using public transport can be considered as alternative modes. This paper tried to identify the potential to increase active commuting in UGM by understanding student’s travel behavior. ANOVA test was employed to identify the perceptions between students across residential zones toward motivators and barriers to actively commute. The findings were used to propose strategies for increasing active commuting level in UGM, which are: reducing barriers to actively commute, improving public transport services, improving walking and cycling facilities, and introducing programs to discourage motorized vehicle use.

5′AMP-activated Protein Kinase Activity is Increased in Adipose Tissue of Northern Elephant Seal Pups during Prolonged Fasting-Induced Insulin Resistance

PubMed Central

Viscarra, Jose A.; Champagne, Cory D.; Crocker, Daniel E.; Ortiz, Rudy M.

2011-01-01

Northern elephant seals endure a 2–3 month fast characterized by sustained hyperglycemia, hypoinsulinemia and increased plasma cortisol and free fatty acids, conditions often seen in insulin resistant humans. We previously showed that adipose Glut4 expression and AMP kinase (AMPK) activity increase and plasma glucose decreases in fasting seals suggesting that AMPK activity contributes to glucose regulation during insulin resistant conditions. To address the hypothesis that AMPK activity increases during fasting-induced insulin resistance, we performed glucose tolerance tests (GTT) on early (n=5) and late (n=8) fasted seal pups and compared adipose tissue expression of insulin signaling proteins, PPARγ, and AMPK, in addition to plasma adiponectin, leptin, cortisol, insulin and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) levels. Fasting was associated with decreased glucose clearance, plasma insulin and adiponectin, and intracellular insulin signaling, as well as increased plasma cortisol and NEFAs, supporting the suggestion that seals develop insulin resistance late in the fast. Expression of Glut4 and VAMP2 increased (52% and 63%, respectively) with fasting but did not change significantly during the GTT. PPARγ and phosphorylated AMPK did not change in early fasted seals, but increased significantly (73% and 50%, respectively) in late fasted seals during the GTT. Increased AMPK activity along with the reduction in the activity of insulin-signaling proteins supports our hypothesis that AMPK activity is increased following the onset of insulin resistance. The association between increased AMPK activity and Glut4 expression suggests that AMPK plays a greater role in regulating glucose metabolism in mammals adapted to prolonged fasting than in non-fasting mammals. PMID:21429964

26 CFR 1.41-1 - Credit for increasing research activities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... Section 1.41-1 Internal Revenue INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY INCOME TAX INCOME TAXES Credits Against Tax § 1.41-1 Credit for increasing research activities. (a) Amount of credit. The...) Section 1.41-3A also addresses the special rule in section 221(d)(2) of the Economic Recovery Tax Act of...

Hematopoietic cell transplantation activity of Turkey in 2014: Ongoing increase in HCT rates.

PubMed

Tekgündüz, Emre; Şencan, İrfan; Kapuağası, Arif; Ünal, Doğan; Öztürk, Murat; Gümüş, Eyüp; Göker, Hakan; Tavil, Emine Betül; Ertem, Mehmet; Çetin, Mustafa; Arat, Mutlu; Soysal, Teoman; Karakaşlı, Osman; Sur, Halil Yılmaz; Yeşilipek, Akif; Ferhanoğlu, Burhan; Uçkan, Duygu; İlhan, Osman; Altuntaş, Fevzi

2016-02-01

Hematopoietic cell transplantation is an established treatment option with curative potential for a variety of clinical conditions. The last decade especially witnessed a remarkable increase in HCT activity in Turkey. In 2014, 696 pediatric and 2631 adult (total 3327) HCT were performed in Turkey. Corresponding transplant rates per 10 million inhabitants for autologous-HCT and allogeneic-HCT were 226 and 202, respectively. Total HCT procedures in Turkey increased 177% in the last 5 years and 791% in the last 14 years. This report focuses mainly on HCT activity of Turkey in 2014 based on the national HCT registry and presents a general picture of national HCT activity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Increasing Physical Activity in Preschool: A Pilot Study to Evaluate Animal Trackers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Williams, Christine L.; Carter, Betty Jean; Kibbe, Debra L.; Dennison, David

2009-01-01

Objective: This report describes a pilot study to evaluate Animal Trackers (AT), a preschool program designed to (1) increase structured physical activity (PA) during the preschool day; (2) increase practice of gross motor skills; (3) provide teachers with an easy-to-use PA program regardless of teacher experience; and (4) implement a teacher…

Increased hippocampal activation in ApoE-4 carriers and non-carriers with amnestic mild cognitive impairment.

PubMed

Tran, Tammy T; Speck, Caroline L; Pisupati, Aparna; Gallagher, Michela; Bakker, Arnold

2017-01-01

Increased fMRI activation in the hippocampus is recognized as a signature characteristic of the amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) stage of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Previous work has localized this increased activation to the dentate gyrus/CA3 subregion of the hippocampus and showed a correlation with memory impairments in those patients. Increased hippocampal activation has also been reported in carriers of the ApoE-4 allelic variation independently of mild cognitive impairment although these findings were not localized to a hippocampal subregion. To assess the ApoE-4 contribution to increased hippocampal fMRI activation, patients with aMCI genotyped for ApoE-4 status and healthy age-matched control participants completed a high-resolution fMRI scan while performing a memory task designed to tax hippocampal subregion specific functions. Consistent with previous reports, patients with aMCI showed increased hippocampal activation in the left dentate gyrus/CA3 region of the hippocampus as well as memory task errors attributable to this subregion. However, this increased fMRI activation in the hippocampus did not differ between ApoE-4 carriers and ApoE-4 non-carriers and the proportion of memory errors attributable to dentate gyrus/CA3 function did not differ between ApoE-4 carriers and ApoE-4 non-carriers. These results indicate that increased fMRI activation of the hippocampus observed in patients with aMCI is independent of ApoE-4 status and that ApoE-4 does not contribute to the dysfunctional hippocampal activation or the memory errors attributable to this subregion in these patients.

Active children through individual vouchers - evaluation (ACTIVE): protocol for a mixed method randomised control trial to increase physical activity levels in teenagers.

PubMed

James, Michaela; Christian, Danielle; Scott, Samantha; Todd, Charlotte; Stratton, Gareth; McCoubrey, Sarah; Halcox, Julian; Audrey, Suzanne; Ellins, Elizabeth; Brophy, Sinead

2017-07-11

Many teenagers are insufficiently active despite the health benefits of physical activity (PA). There is strong evidence to show that inactivity and low fitness levels increase the risk of non-communicable diseases such as coronary heart disease (CHD), type 2 diabetes and breast and colon cancers (Lee et al. Lancet 380:219-29, 2012). A major barrier facing adolescents is accessibility (e.g. cost and lack of local facilities). The ACTIVE project aims to tackle this barrier through a multi-faceted intervention, giving teenagers vouchers to spend on activities of their choice and empowering young people to improve their fitness and PA levels. ACTIVE is a mixed methods randomised control trial in 7 secondary schools in Swansea, South Wales. Quantitative and qualitative measures including PA (cooper run test (CRT), accelerometery over 7 days), cardiovascular (CV) measures (blood pressure, pulse wave analysis) and focus groups will be undertaken at 4 separate time points (baseline, 6 months,12 months and follow-up at 18 months). Intervention schools will receive a multi-component intervention involving 12 months of £20 vouchers to spend on physical activities of their choice, a peer mentor scheme and opportunities to attend advocacy meetings. Control schools are encouraged to continue usual practice. The primary aim is to examine the effect of the intervention in improving cardiovascular fitness. This paper describes the protocol for the ACTIVE randomised control trial, which aims to increase fitness, physical activity and socialisation of teenagers in Swansea, UK via a voucher scheme combined with peer mentoring. Results can contribute to the evidence base on teenage physical activity and, if effective, the intervention has the potential to inform future physical activity interventions and policy. ISRCTN75594310 (Assigned 06/03/2017).

Shale gas activity and increased rates of sexually transmitted infections in Ohio, 2000-2016.

PubMed

Deziel, Nicole C; Humeau, Zoe; Elliott, Elise G; Warren, Joshua L; Niccolai, Linda M

2018-01-01

The growing shale gas ("fracking") industry depends on a mobile workforce, whose influx could have social impacts on host communities. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can increase through sexual mixing patterns associated with labor migration. No prior studies have quantified the relationship between shale gas activity and rates of three reportable STIs: chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. We conducted a longitudinal, ecologic study from 2000-2016 in Ohio, situated in a prolific shale gas region in the United States (US). Data on reported cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis by county and year were obtained from the Ohio Department of Health. All 88 counties were classified as none, low, and high shale gas activity in each year, using data from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Annual rate ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated from mixed-effects Poisson regression models evaluating the relationship between shale gas activity and reported annual STI rates while adjusting for secular trends and potential confounders obtained from the US Census. Compared to counties with no shale gas activity, counties with high activity had 21% (RR = 1.21; 95%CI = 1.08-1.36) increased rates of chlamydia and 19% (RR = 1.27; 95%CI 0.98-1.44) increased rates of gonorrhea, respectively. No association was observed for syphilis. This first report of a link between shale gas activity and increased rates of both chlamydia and gonorrhea may inform local policies and community health efforts.

Enhancing anaerobic digestion of waste activated sludge by pretreatment: effect of volatile to total solids.

PubMed

Wang, Xiao; Duan, Xu; Chen, Jianguang; Fang, Kuo; Feng, Leiyu; Yan, Yuanyuan; Zhou, Qi

2016-01-01

In this study the effect of volatile to total solids (VS/TS) on anaerobic digestion of waste activated sludge (WAS) pretreated by alkaline, thermal and thermal-alkaline strategies was studied. Experimental results showed that the production of methane from sludge was increased with VS/TS. When anaerobic digesters were fed with sludge pretreated by the thermal-alkaline method, the average methane yield was improved from 2.8 L/d at VS/TS 0.35 to 4.7 L/d at VS/TS 0.56. Also, the efficiency of VS reduction during sludge anaerobic digestion varied between 18.9% and 45.6%, and increased gradually with VS/TS. Mechanism investigation of VS/TS on WAS anaerobic digestion suggested that the general activities of anaerobic microorganisms, activities of key enzymes related to sludge hydrolysis, acidification and methanogenesis, and the ratio of Archaea to Bacteria were all increased with VS/TS, showing good agreement with methane production.

Active Choice and Financial Incentives to Increase Rates of Screening Colonoscopy-A Randomized Controlled Trial.