40 CFR 63.1322 - Batch process vents-reference control technology.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 12 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Batch process vents-reference control... (CONTINUED) National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions: Group IV Polymers and Resins § 63.1322 Batch process vents—reference control technology. (a) Batch process vents. The owner or...

40 CFR 63.1322 - Batch process vents-reference control technology.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 12 2012-07-01 2011-07-01 true Batch process vents-reference control technology. 63.1322 Section 63.1322 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR... Batch process vents—reference control technology. (a) Batch process vents. The owner or operator of a...

40 CFR 63.1322 - Batch process vents-reference control technology.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 12 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Batch process vents-reference control technology. 63.1322 Section 63.1322 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR... § 63.1322 Batch process vents—reference control technology. (a) Batch process vents. The owner or...

40 CFR 63.1322 - Batch process vents-reference control technology.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 11 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Batch process vents-reference control technology. 63.1322 Section 63.1322 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR... Batch process vents—reference control technology. (a) Batch process vents. The owner or operator of a...

40 CFR 63.1322 - Batch process vents-reference control technology.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 11 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 true Batch process vents-reference control technology. 63.1322 Section 63.1322 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR... Batch process vents—reference control technology. (a) Batch process vents. The owner or operator of a...

Affective Disruption from Social Rhythm and Behavioral Approach System (BAS) Sensitivities: A Test of the Integration of the Social Zeitgeber and BAS Theories of Bipolar Disorder

PubMed Central

Boland, Elaine M.; Stange, Jonathan P.; Labelle, Denise R.; Shapero, Benjamin G.; Weiss, Rachel B.; Abramson, Lyn Y.; Alloy, Lauren B.

2015-01-01

The Behavioral Approach System (BAS)/Reward Hypersensitivity Theory and the Social Zeitgeber Theory are two biopsychosocial theories of bipolar spectrum disorders (BSD) that may work together to explain affective dysregulation. The present study examined whether BAS sensitivity is associated with affective symptoms via a) increased social rhythm disruption in response to BAS-relevant life events, or b) greater exposure to BAS events leading to social rhythm disruption and subsequent symptoms. Results indicated that high BAS individuals were more likely to experience social rhythm disruption following BAS-relevant events. Social rhythm disruption mediated the association between BAS-relevant events and symptoms (hypothesis a). High BAS individuals experienced significantly more BAS-relevant events, which predicted greater social rhythm disruption, which predicted greater levels of affective symptoms (hypothesis b). Individuals at risk for BSD may be sensitive to BAS-relevant stimuli, experience more BAS-relevant events, and experience affective dysregulation due to the interplay of the BAS and circadian rhythms. PMID:27429864

40 CFR 63.1402 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... properties may vary with time. For a unit operation operated in a batch mode (i.e., batch unit operation... means a unit operation operated in a batch mode. Block means the time period that comprises a single batch cycle. Combustion device burner means a device designed to mix and ignite fuel and air to provide...

40 CFR 63.1402 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... properties may vary with time. For a unit operation operated in a batch mode (i.e., batch unit operation... means a unit operation operated in a batch mode. Block means the time period that comprises a single batch cycle. Combustion device burner means a device designed to mix and ignite fuel and air to provide...

40 CFR 63.1402 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... properties may vary with time. For a unit operation operated in a batch mode (i.e., batch unit operation... means a unit operation operated in a batch mode. Block means the time period that comprises a single batch cycle. Combustion device burner means a device designed to mix and ignite fuel and air to provide...

40 CFR 63.1402 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... properties may vary with time. For a unit operation operated in a batch mode (i.e., batch unit operation... means a unit operation operated in a batch mode. Block means the time period that comprises a single batch cycle. Combustion device burner means a device designed to mix and ignite fuel and air to provide...

40 CFR 63.1402 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... properties may vary with time. For a unit operation operated in a batch mode (i.e., batch unit operation... means a unit operation operated in a batch mode. Block means the time period that comprises a single batch cycle. Combustion device burner means a device designed to mix and ignite fuel and air to provide...

Installation Restoration Program. Phase 2. Confirmation/Quantification. Stage 1

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-03-28

Comftin,,,on Fvvem in.eea),a n dftl by bloe * numri ~A Problem Confirmation Study was conducted at Burlington Air National Guard BasE in Vermont. The...cont’d) 3. Characteristics(cont’d)- Biological Agent ( ) Volatile (4f Toxic (). Reactive ( ) 4. Toxicity: TLVs IDLHs 5. Special Hazards 6. Acute

Final Environmental Assessment Nellis Air Force Base School Initiative, Nellis Air Force Base, Clark County, Nevada

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-04-01

Analysis [BEA] 2012). The relatively high unemployment rate, as well as the predominance of the Accommodation and Food Services industry, a sector that...I for future mission-specific development. The intent is to lease base property to a private sector charter school company to design and construct...allow Nellis AFB to lease bas~ property to a private sector charter school company to develop, construct, and op~rate a new charter school centrally

Consumer Evaluation of Cash Food Systems: Shaw Air Force Base

DTIC Science & Technology

1974-12-01

consumer attitudes of a food system at Shaw Air Force Base in which all customers received a monetary food allowance and paid for food in the dining...AEPORT NUMBER r GOVT ACCESSION NO. ’· RECIPIENT’S CATALOG NUMBER 75-77-FSL •• TITLE (and Subtitle) S. TYPE OF REPORT & PERIOO COVERED CONSUMER ...KEY WORDS (ConHnuo on reveree side lf neceseary and Identify by block nwnber) Feeding Feeding Systems Consumer Acceptance BAS/A LA CARTE Food

FNF Construction Inc. Window Rock Airport Project: Coverage Under General Air Quality Permit for New or Modified Minor Source Cement Batch Plants in Indian Country

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Approved Request for Coverage under General Air Quality Permit for New or Modified Minor Source Cement Batch Plants in Indian Country for FNF Construction Inc. Window Rock Airport Soil Cement Mixing Plant Project, Beacon Road, Window Rock, Arizona 86515.

40 CFR 1065.545 - Verification of proportional flow control for batch sampling.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... control for batch sampling. 1065.545 Section 1065.545 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING PROCEDURES Performing an Emission Test Over Specified Duty Cycles § 1065.545 Verification of proportional flow control for batch sampling. For any...

FIELD EVALUATION OF SAMPLERS FOR EPA'S NATIONAL PM 2.5 CHEMICAL SPECIATION NETWORK-PRELIMINARY RESULTS FROM ATLANTA

EPA Science Inventory

The US EPA bas established a national network at nearly 1100 sites to monitor PM2.5 mass for testing compliance with the PM2.5 National Ambient Air Quality Standards. The objective of the field evaluation is to determine the performance characteristics for the collection of the...

Structural requirements of the human sodium-dependent bile acid transporter (hASBT): Role of 3- and 7-OH moieties on binding and translocation of bile acids

PubMed Central

González, Pablo M.; Lagos, Carlos F.; Ward, Weslyn C.; Polli, James E.

2014-01-01

Bile acids (BAs) are the end products of cholesterol metabolism. One of the critical steps in their biosynthesis involves the isomerization of the 3β-hydroxyl (-OH) group on the cholestane ring to the common 3α-configuration on BAs. BAs are actively recaptured from the small intestine by the human Apical Sodium-dependent Bile Acid Transporter (hASBT) with high affinity and capacity. Previous studies have suggested that no particular hydroxyl group on BAs is critical for binding or transport by hASBT, even though 3β-hydroxylated BAs were not examined. The aim of this study was to elucidate the role of the 3α-OH group on BAs binding and translocation by hASBT. Ten 3β-hydroxylated BAs (Iso-bile acids, iBAs) were synthesized, characterized, and subjected to hASBT inhibition and uptake studies. hASBT inhibition and uptake kinetics of iBAs were compared to that of native 3α-OH BAs. Glycine conjugates of native and isomeric BAs were subjected to molecular dynamics simulations in order to identify topological descriptors related to binding and translocation by hASBT. Iso-BAs bound to hASBT with lower affinity and exhibited reduced translocation than their respective 3α-epimers. Kinetic data suggests that, in contrast to native BAs where hASBT binding is the rate-limiting step, iBAs transport was rate-limited by translocation and not binding. Remarkably, 7-dehydroxylated iBAs were not hASBT substrates, highlighting the critical role of 7-OH group on BA translocation by hASBT, especially for iBAs. Conformational analysis of gly-iBAs and native BAs identified topological features for optimal binding as: concave steroidal nucleus, 3-OH “on-” or below-steroidal plane, 7-OH below-plane, and 12-OH moiety towards-plane. Our results emphasize the relevance of the 3α-OH group on BAs for proper hASBT binding and transport and revealed the critical role of 7-OH group on BA translocation, particularly in the absence of a 3α-OH group. Results have implications for BA prodrug design. PMID:24328955

40 CFR 63.487 - Batch front-end process vents-reference control technology.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

...-reference control technology. 63.487 Section 63.487 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION... SOURCE CATEGORIES National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions: Group I Polymers and Resins § 63.487 Batch front-end process vents—reference control technology. (a) Batch front-end process...

40 CFR 63.491 - Batch front-end process vents-recordkeeping requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... CATEGORIES National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions: Group I Polymers and Resins § 63.491 Batch front-end process vents—recordkeeping requirements. (a) Group determination records for...) through (a)(6) of this section for each batch front-end process vent subject to the group determination...

40 CFR 63.487 - Batch front-end process vents-reference control technology.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... control technology. 63.487 Section 63.487 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... CATEGORIES National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions: Group I Polymers and Resins § 63.487 Batch front-end process vents—reference control technology. (a) Batch front-end process vents...

40 CFR 63.491 - Batch front-end process vents-recordkeeping requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... CATEGORIES National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions: Group I Polymers and Resins § 63.491 Batch front-end process vents—recordkeeping requirements. (a) Group determination records for...) through (a)(6) of this section for each batch front-end process vent subject to the group determination...

40 CFR 63.487 - Batch front-end process vents-reference control technology.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

...-reference control technology. 63.487 Section 63.487 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION... SOURCE CATEGORIES National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions: Group I Polymers and Resins § 63.487 Batch front-end process vents—reference control technology. (a) Batch front-end process...

40 CFR 63.487 - Batch front-end process vents-reference control technology.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

...-reference control technology. 63.487 Section 63.487 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION... SOURCE CATEGORIES National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions: Group I Polymers and Resins § 63.487 Batch front-end process vents—reference control technology. (a) Batch front-end process...

40 CFR 63.491 - Batch front-end process vents-recordkeeping requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... CATEGORIES National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions: Group I Polymers and Resins § 63.491 Batch front-end process vents—recordkeeping requirements. (a) Group determination records for...) through (a)(6) of this section for each batch front-end process vent subject to the group determination...

40 CFR 63.491 - Batch front-end process vents-recordkeeping requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... CATEGORIES National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions: Group I Polymers and Resins § 63.491 Batch front-end process vents—recordkeeping requirements. (a) Group determination records for...) through (a)(6) of this section for each batch front-end process vent subject to the group determination...

40 CFR 63.1361 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... pressure relief device. This release can be one release or a series of releases over a short time period... reduces the mass of HAP emitted to the air. The equipment may consist of an individual device or a series... do not occur simultaneously in a batch operation. A batch process consists of a series of batch...

40 CFR 63.1361 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... can be one release or a series of releases over a short time period due to a malfunction in the... reduces the mass of HAP emitted to the air. The equipment may consist of an individual device or a series... do not occur simultaneously in a batch operation. A batch process consists of a series of batch...

40 CFR 63.491 - Batch front-end process vents-recordkeeping requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... (b)(2): (i) For an incinerator or non-combustion control device, the percent reduction of organic HAP... the process vent stream is introduced with combustion air or is used as a secondary fuel and is not... combustion device to control halogenated batch front-end process vents or halogenated aggregate batch vent...

Behavioral inhibition and activation systems in traumatic brain injury.

PubMed

Wong, Christina G; Rapport, Lisa J; Meachen, Sarah-Jane; Hanks, Robin A; Lumley, Mark A

2016-11-01

Personality has been linked to cognitive appraisal and health outcomes; however, research specific to traumatic brain injury (TBI) has been sparse. Gray's theory of behavioral inhibition system and behavioral activation system (BIS/BAS) offers a neurobiologic view of personality that may be especially relevant to neurobehavioral change associated with TBI. The present study examined theoretical and psychometric issues of using the BIS/BAS scale among adults with TBI as well as BIS/BAS personality correlates of TBI. Research Method/Design: Eighty-one adults with complicated-mild to severe TBI and 76 of their significant others (SOs) participated. Measures included the BIS/BAS scale, Positive and Negative Affect Schedule, and Awareness Questionnaire. Among adults with TBI, BIS/BAS internal consistency reliabilities were similar to those found in normative samples of adults without TBI. The TBI group endorsed significantly higher BAS than did the SO group, and injury severity was positively correlated to BAS. The SO group showed expected patterns of correlation between personality and affect; positive affect was associated with BAS, and negative affect with BIS. In contrast, in the TBI group, BAS was positively correlated to both positive and negative affect. Impaired awareness of abilities moderated the intensity of relationships between BIS/BAS and affect. TBI was associated with relatively intensified BAS (approach behavior) but not BIS (avoidance behavior). The observed pattern is consistent with the neurobiology of TBI-related personality change and with theory regarding the independence of the BIS and BAS systems. The BIS/BAS scale shows promise as a personality measure in TBI. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

Emissions of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from batch hot mix asphalt plants.

PubMed

Lee, Wen-Jhy; Chao, Wen-Hui; Shih, Minliang; Tsai, Cheng-Hsien; Chen, Thomas Jeng-Ho; Tsai, Perng-Jy

2004-10-15

This study was set out to assess the characteristics of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) emissions from batch hot mix asphalt (HMA) plants and PAH removal efficiencies associated with their installed air pollution control devices. Field samplings were conducted on six randomly selected batch HMA plants. For each selected plant, stack flue gas samples were collected from both stacks of the batch mixer (n = 5) and the preheating boiler (n = 5), respectively. PAH samples were also collected from the field to assess PAHs that were directly emitted from the discharging chute (n = 3). To assess PAH removal efficiencies of the installed air pollution control devices, PAH contents in both cyclone fly ash (n=3) and bag filter fly ash (n = 3) were analyzed. Results show that the total PAH concentration (mean; RSD) in the stack flue gas of the batch mixer (354 microg/Nm3; 78.5%) was higher than that emitted from the discharging chute (107 microg/Nm3; 70.1%) and that in the stack flue gas of the preheating boiler (83.7 microg/Nm3; 77.6%). But the total BaPeq concentration of that emitted from the discharging chute (0.950 microg/Nm3; 84.4%) was higher than contained in the stack flue gas of the batch mixer (0.629 microg/Nm3; 86.8%) and the stack flue gas of the preheating boiler (= 0.112 microg/Nm3; 80.3%). The mean total PAH emission factor for all selected batch mix plants (= 139 mg/ton x product) was much higher than that reported by U.S. EPA for the drum mix asphalt plant (range = 11.8-79.0 mg/ton x product). We found the overall removal efficiency of the installed air pollution control devices (i.e., cyclone + bag filter) on total PAHs and total BaPeq were 22.1% and 93.7%, respectively. This implies that the installed air pollution control devices, although they have a very limited effect on the removal of total PAHs, do significantly reduce the carcinogenic potencies associated with PAH emissions from batch HMA plants.

40 CFR 63.11147 - What are the standards and compliance requirements for existing sources not using batch copper...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... requirements for existing sources not using batch copper converters? 63.11147 Section 63.11147 Protection of... Hazardous Air Pollutants for Primary Copper Smelting Area Sources Standards and Compliance Requirements § 63.11147 What are the standards and compliance requirements for existing sources not using batch copper...

40 CFR 63.11147 - What are the standards and compliance requirements for existing sources not using batch copper...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... requirements for existing sources not using batch copper converters? 63.11147 Section 63.11147 Protection of... Hazardous Air Pollutants for Primary Copper Smelting Area Sources Standards and Compliance Requirements § 63.11147 What are the standards and compliance requirements for existing sources not using batch copper...

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart H of... - Batch Processes

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 9 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Batch Processes 1 Table 1 to Subpart H... Standards for Organic Hazardous Air Pollutants for Equipment Leaks Pt. 63, Subpt. H, Table 1 Table 1 to Subpart H of Part 63—Batch Processes Monitoring Frequency for Equipment Other than Connectors Operating...

[Virus adsorption from batch experiments as influenced by air-water interface].

PubMed

Zhang, Hui; Zhao, Bing-zi; Zhang, Jia-bao; Zhang, Cong-zhi; Wang, Qiu-ying; Chen, Ji

2007-12-01

The presence of air-water interface in batch sorption experiments may result in inaccurate estimation of virus adsorption onto various soils. A batch sorption experiment was conducted to compare the adsorption results of MS2 in different soils under presence/absence of air-water interface. Soils with sterilization/nonterilization treatment were used. Virus recovery efficiency in a blank experiment (no soil) was also evaluated as affected by different amount of air-water interface. The presence of air-water interface altered the results of virus adsorption in different soils with different extent, with Sandy fluvo-aquic soil being the most considerably affected, followed by Red loam soil, and the least being Red clay soil, probably because of different soil properties associated with virus adsorption/inactivation. Soil sterilization resulted in more significant difference of virus adsorption onto the Sandy fluvo-aquic soil between the presence and absence of air-water interface, while a reduced difference was observed in the Red loam soil. The presence of air-water interface significantly decreased virus recovery efficiency, with the values being decreased with increase in the amount of air-water interface. Soil particles likely prohibit viruses from reaching the air-water interface or alter the forces at the solid-water-air interface so that the results from the blank experiment did not truly represent results from control blank, which probably resulted in adsorption difference between presence and absence of the air-water interface.

40 CFR 63.486 - Batch front-end process vent provisions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions: Group I Polymers and Resins § 63.486... paragraph (b) of this section, owners and operators of new and existing affected sources with batch front...

Enhancing tablet disintegration characteristics of a highly water-soluble high-drug-loading formulation by granulation process.

PubMed

Pandey, Preetanshu; Levins, Christopher; Pafiakis, Steve; Zacour, Brian; Bindra, Dilbir S; Trinh, Jade; Buckley, David; Gour, Shruti; Sharif, Shasad; Stamato, Howard

2018-07-01

The objective of this study was to improve the disintegration and dissolution characteristics of a highly water-soluble tablet matrix by altering the manufacturing process. A high disintegration time along with high dependence of the disintegration time on tablet hardness was observed for a high drug loading (70% w/w) API when formulated using a high-shear wet granulation (HSWG) process. Keeping the formulation composition mostly constant, a fluid-bed granulation (FBG) process was explored as an alternate granulation method using a 2 (4-1) fractional factorial design with two center points. FBG batches (10 batches) were manufactured using varying disingtegrant amount, spray rate, inlet temperature (T) and atomization air pressure. The resultant final blend particle size was affected significantly by spray rate (p = .0009), inlet T (p = .0062), atomization air pressure (p = .0134) and the interaction effect between inlet T*spray rate (p = .0241). The compactibility of the final blend was affected significantly by disintegrant amount (p < .0001), atomization air pressure (p = .0013) and spray rate (p = .05). It was observed that the fluid-bed batches gave significantly lower disintegration times than the HSWG batches, and mercury intrusion porosimetry data revealed that this was caused by the higher internal pore structure of tablets manufactured using the FBG batches.

Effects of a small talking facial image on autonomic activity: the moderating influence of dispositional BIS and BAS sensitivities and emotions.

PubMed

Ravaja, Niklas

2004-01-01

We examined the moderating influence of dispositional behavioral inhibition system and behavioral activation system (BAS) sensitivities, Negative Affect, and Positive Affect on the relationship between a small moving vs. static facial image and autonomic responses when viewing/listening to news messages read by a newscaster among 36 young adults. Autonomic parameters measured were respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), low-frequency (LF) component of heart rate variability (HRV), electrodermal activity, and pulse transit time (PTT). The results showed that dispositional BAS sensitivity, particularly BAS Fun Seeking, and Negative Affect interacted with facial image motion in predicting autonomic nervous system activity. A moving facial image was related to lower RSA and LF component of HRV and shorter PTTs as compared to a static facial image among high BAS individuals. Even a small talking facial image may contribute to sustained attentional engagement among high BAS individuals, given that the BAS directs attention toward the positive cue and a moving social stimulus may act as a positive incentive for high BAS individuals.

Reward bias and lateralization in gambling behavior: behavioral activation system and alpha band analysis.

PubMed

Balconi, Michela; Finocchiaro, Roberta; Canavesio, Ylenia; Messina, Rossella

2014-11-30

The present research explored the main factors that can influence subjects' choices in the case of decisions. In order to elucidate the individual differences that influence the decisional processes, making their strategies more or less advantageous, we tested the effect of a reward sensitivity in the behavioral activation system (BAS-Reward) constructed on the ability to distinguish between high- and low-risk decisions. Secondly, the lateralization effect, related to increased activation of the left (BAS-related) hemisphere, was explored. Thirty-one subjects were tested using the Iowa Gambling Task, and the BAS-Reward measure was applied to distinguish between high-BAS and low-BAS groups. Behavioral responses (gain/loss options) and alpha-band modulation were considered. It was found that high-BAS group increased their tendency to opt in favor of the immediate reward (loss strategy) rather than the long-term option (win strategy). Secondly, high-BAS subjects showed an increased left-hemisphere activation in response to losing (with immediate reward) choices in comparison with low-BAS subjects. A "reward bias" effect was supposed to explain both the bad strategy and the unbalanced hemispheric activation for high-BAS and more risk-taking subjects. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Installation Restoration Program, Stage 3, McClellan Air Force Base. Preliminary Groundwater Operable Unit Remedial Investigation (Hydrogeologic Assessment) Sampling and Analysis Plan

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-02-01

PRESENT C,(8;2) 131o sia &1 OTE MUNICIPAL WATER b9PLY WELLS: ON-BASE CW CITY OSARMENTO AREAS NW NORTHRIDGE WATEtj DISTRICT RW RIO LINDA AW ARCADE WATER...1ASE PRODUCTION WELL ACTIVE BAS PRODUCTION WELL ., CITY WELL T #f CALTRANS WELL . EXTRACTION WELL 0 500 1000 N : SCALL IN FEET If-3. 82

Unsteady Aerodynamics for Micro Air Vehicles (Aerodynamique instable pour micro-vehicules aeriens)

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-09-01

SLOVAQUIE ESPAGNE Akadémia ozbrojených síl gen. SDG TECEN / DGAM PAYS-BAS M.R. Štefánika, Distribučné a C/ Arturo Soria 289 Royal Netherlands Military...1000 Ljubljana PO Box 18 Academy Library 197 21 Praha 9 P.O. Box 90.002 SPAIN 4800 PA Breda SDG TECEN / DGAM DENMARK C/ Arturo Soria 289 Danish

Branchial anomalies in children: A report of 105 surgical cases.

PubMed

Li, Wanpeng; Xu, Hongming; Zhao, Liming; Li, Xiaoyan

2018-01-01

Branchial anomalies (BAs) account for 20% of all congenital masses in children. We sought to review the incidence of involvement of individual anomalies, diagnostic methods, surgical treatment, and complications of BAs in children. In addition, we also classified our study and analyzed a congenital lower neck cutaneous fistula near the sternoclavicular joint that was thought to be the skin-side remnant of the fourth BAs. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 105 children who were referred to our hospital from June 2009 to December 2016 for the treatment of BAs. In this series, there were 51 males and 54 females. The age at the time of operation varied from 19 days to 13 years, and the mean age was 4.5 years. A total of 33 (31.4%) cases presented with first BAs, 13 (12.4%) presented with second BAs, and 59 (56.2%) presented with third and fourth BAs, including 6 cases of congenital lower neck cutaneous fistula. Fistulectomy under general anesthesia was performed on all of them. For postoperative complications, 2 cases had temporary facial paralysis, 1 case had permanent facial paralysis, 4 cases had temporary recurrent laryngeal nerve injury. Recurrence occurred in 2 patients with first BAs after medium follow-up time of 3.6 years (6 months-8 years). BAs are common congenital head and neck lesions in children, and there are four distinct types (first, second, third and fourth anomalies). The incidence of third and fourth BAs in Asia maybe higher when compared with literature reports, second BAs seem rare in this population, but more research is needed to confirm this perspective. Diagnosis is not difficult with a proper knowledge of the anatomy of the BAs. The surgical procedures should be tailored depending on the various types, and complete excision of the fistula is the key to prevent recurrence. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Bas-Relief Modeling from Normal Images with Intuitive Styles.

PubMed

Ji, Zhongping; Ma, Weiyin; Sun, Xianfang

2014-05-01

Traditional 3D model-based bas-relief modeling methods are often limited to model-dependent and monotonic relief styles. This paper presents a novel method for digital bas-relief modeling with intuitive style control. Given a composite normal image, the problem discussed in this paper involves generating a discontinuity-free depth field with high compression of depth data while preserving or even enhancing fine details. In our framework, several layers of normal images are composed into a single normal image. The original normal image on each layer is usually generated from 3D models or through other techniques as described in this paper. The bas-relief style is controlled by choosing a parameter and setting a targeted height for them. Bas-relief modeling and stylization are achieved simultaneously by solving a sparse linear system. Different from previous work, our method can be used to freely design bas-reliefs in normal image space instead of in object space, which makes it possible to use any popular image editing tools for bas-relief modeling. Experiments with a wide range of 3D models and scenes show that our method can effectively generate digital bas-reliefs.

Multicenter validation of a bedside antisaccade task as a measure of executive function

PubMed Central

Hellmuth, J.; Mirsky, J.; Heuer, H.W.; Matlin, A.; Jafari, A.; Garbutt, S.; Widmeyer, M.; Berhel, A.; Sinha, L.; Miller, B.L.; Kramer, J.H.

2012-01-01

Objective: To create and validate a simple, standardized version of the antisaccade (AS) task that requires no specialized equipment for use as a measure of executive function in multicenter clinical studies. Methods: The bedside AS (BAS) task consisted of 40 pseudorandomized AS trials presented on a laptop computer. BAS performance was compared with AS performance measured using an infrared eye tracker in normal elders (NE) and individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia (n = 33). The neuropsychological domain specificity of the BAS was then determined in a cohort of NE, MCI, and dementia (n = 103) at UCSF, and the BAS was validated as a measure of executive function in a 6-center cohort (n = 397) of normal adults and patients with a variety of brain diseases. Results: Performance on the BAS and laboratory AS task was strongly correlated and BAS performance was most strongly associated with neuropsychological measures of executive function. Even after controlling for disease severity and processing speed, BAS performance was associated with multiple assessments of executive function, most strongly the informant-based Frontal Systems Behavior Scale. Conclusions: The BAS is a simple, valid measure of executive function in aging and neurologic disease. PMID:22573640

The link between hypomania risk and creativity: The role of heightened behavioral activation system (BAS) sensitivity.

PubMed

Kim, Bin-Na; Kwon, Seok-Man

2017-06-01

The relationship between bipolar disorder (BD) and creativity is well-known; however, relatively little is known about its potential mechanism. We investigated whether heightened behavioral activation system (BAS) sensitivity may mediate such relationship. Korean young adults (N=543) completed self-report questionnaires that included the Hypomanic Personality Scale (HPS), the Behavioral Activation System(BAS) Scale, the Everyday Creativity Scale (ECS), the Positive Affect and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), and the Altman Self-Rating Mania Scale (ASRM). Correlational, hierarchical regression and mediation analyses using bootstrap confidence intervals were conducted. As predicted, BAS sensitivity was associated with self-reported creativity as well as hypomania risk and symptoms. Even when positive affect was controlled, BAS sensitivity predicted incrementally significant variance in explaining creativity. In mediation analysis, BAS sensitivity partially mediated the relation between hypomania risk and creativity. Reliance on self-report measures in assessing creativity and usage of non-clinical sample. BAS sensitivity was related not only to mood pathology but also to creativity. As a basic affective temperament, BAS sensitivity may help explain incompatible sides of adaptation associated with BD. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

BAsE-Seq: a method for obtaining long viral haplotypes from short sequence reads.

PubMed

Hong, Lewis Z; Hong, Shuzhen; Wong, Han Teng; Aw, Pauline P K; Cheng, Yan; Wilm, Andreas; de Sessions, Paola F; Lim, Seng Gee; Nagarajan, Niranjan; Hibberd, Martin L; Quake, Stephen R; Burkholder, William F

2014-01-01

We present a method for obtaining long haplotypes, of over 3 kb in length, using a short-read sequencer, Barcode-directed Assembly for Extra-long Sequences (BAsE-Seq). BAsE-Seq relies on transposing a template-specific barcode onto random segments of the template molecule and assembling the barcoded short reads into complete haplotypes. We applied BAsE-Seq on mixed clones of hepatitis B virus and accurately identified haplotypes occurring at frequencies greater than or equal to 0.4%, with >99.9% specificity. Applying BAsE-Seq to a clinical sample, we obtained over 9,000 viral haplotypes, which provided an unprecedented view of hepatitis B virus population structure during chronic infection. BAsE-Seq is readily applicable for monitoring quasispecies evolution in viral diseases.

The Public Opinion Survey of Human Attributes-Stuttering (POSHA-S) and Bipolar Adjective Scale (BAS): aspects of validity.

PubMed

St Louis, Kenneth O; Williams, Mandy J; Ware, Mercedes B; Guendouzi, Jacqueline; Reichel, Isabella K

2014-01-01

In order to estimate instrument validity, attitudes toward stuttering measured by the newly developed Public Opinion Survey of Human Attributes-Stuttering (POSHA-S) and the Woods and Williams (1976) semantic differential scale (referred to herein as the Bipolar Adjective Scale [BAS]) are compared in college students on one occasion as well as before and after coursework on fluency disorders. Undergraduate and graduate students (n=321) from four universities filled out online versions of the POSHA-S and BAS. Two-thirds were speech-language pathology (SLP) majors; one-third were students in other majors. A subset of the SLP students (n=35) filled out the two instruments again after 8-13 weeks of coursework on fluency disorders. Correlations between all ratings of the POSHA-S and BAS were run for the 321 students. Only 26% of the correlations were statistically significant (R ≥ ± 0.129), and the large majority of these reflected small relationships. POSHA-S ratings were correlated with up to 77% of the items of the BAS while BAS items were correlated with up to 45% of the POSHA-S ratings. After coursework on stuttering, students' attitudes improved on both instruments, but more on the POSHA-S than the BAS. Greater evidence of discriminant validity than convergent validity characterized the POSHA-S and BAS. Both measures showed improved attitudes after fluency disorders coursework, but more so for the POSHA-S, confirming previous reports of construct validity. The POSHA-S taps relevant constructs not included in the BAS, which provide advantages for intracultural, international, and other comparisons of public attitudes toward stuttering. The reader will be able to: (1) describe differentiating characteristics of the POSHA-S and BAS as measures of public attitudes toward stuttering, (2) describe the overlap and lack of overlap in the constructs measured by POSHA-S and BAS, (3) describe discriminant versus convergent validity and (4) describe advantages of the POSHA-S and BAS in various types of comparative studies of stuttering attitudes. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A Strategic Decision Matrix for Analyzing Food Service Operations at Air Force Bases

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-12-01

substitute product can replace your product, for example high - fructose corn syrup can substitute for sugar. Substitutes may negatively affect...dining facility closed and receive BAS. Customers can be happy with customer service and the quality of the food (a high customer satisfaction level...Services squadron may achieve significant cost savings by pursuing the NAF MOA but must also weigh the dollar savings against the threat of high

Aqueous solubilities of alkylphenols and methoxyphenols at 25 C

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

Varhanickova, D.; Shiu, W.Y.; Mackay, D.

1995-03-01

The aqueous solubilities of 25 phenolic substances (2-methylphenol; 3-methylphenol; 4-methylphenol; 2,3-dimethylphenol; 2,4-dimethylphenol; 2,5-dimethylphenol; 2,6-dimethylphenol; 3,4-dimethylphenol; 3,5dimethylphenol; 2-ethylphenol: 4-ethylphenol; 2,3,5-trimethylphenol; 2,4,6-trimethylphenol; 3,4,5-trimethylphenol; 4-propylphenol; 2-isopropylphenol; 4-isopropylphenol; 4-butylphenol; 3-tert-butylphenol; 4-tert-butylphenol; 4-hexylphenol; 3,5-di-tert-butylphenol; 4-octylphenol; 3-methoxyphenol; and 4-methoxyphenol) were determined at 25 C, by a conventional shake-flask, batch contacting method with analysis by high-pressure liquid chromatography with LTV detection. Satisfactory agreement was obtained between measured and previously reported solubilities for 10 of these substances. The liquid or supercooled liquid solubilities are satisfactorily correlated with the solute`s LeBas molar volume and with first-order valence molecular connectivity, yielding structure-property relationships that may be useful for predictive purposes.

Bile-acid-induced cell injury and protection

PubMed Central

Perez, Maria J; Briz, Oscar

2009-01-01

Several studies have characterized the cellular and molecular mechanisms of hepatocyte injury caused by the retention of hydrophobic bile acids (BAs) in cholestatic diseases. BAs may disrupt cell membranes through their detergent action on lipid components and can promote the generation of reactive oxygen species that, in turn, oxidatively modify lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, and eventually cause hepatocyte necrosis and apoptosis. Several pathways are involved in triggering hepatocyte apoptosis. Toxic BAs can activate hepatocyte death receptors directly and induce oxidative damage, thereby causing mitochondrial dysfunction, and induce endoplasmic reticulum stress. When these compounds are taken up and accumulate inside biliary cells, they can also cause apoptosis. Regarding extrahepatic tissues, the accumulation of BAs in the systemic circulation may contribute to endothelial injury in the kidney and lungs. In gastrointestinal cells, BAs may behave as cancer promoters through an indirect mechanism involving oxidative stress and DNA damage, as well as acting as selection agents for apoptosis-resistant cells. The accumulation of BAs may have also deleterious effects on placental and fetal cells. However, other BAs, such as ursodeoxycholic acid, have been shown to modulate BA-induced injury in hepatocytes. The major beneficial effects of treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid are protection against cytotoxicity due to more toxic BAs; the stimulation of hepatobiliary secretion; antioxidant activity, due in part to an enhancement in glutathione levels; and the inhibition of liver cell apoptosis. Other natural BAs or their derivatives, such as cholyl-N-methylglycine or cholylsarcosine, have also aroused pharmacological interest owing to their protective properties. PMID:19360911

40 CFR 63.1101 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... operation. A unit operation may have more than one batch emission episode per batch cycle. For example, a... shutdowns and during periods not associated with a shutdown. Examples of activities that can generate... management units such as an air flotation unit, clarifier, or biological treatment unit. Examples of an oil...

40 CFR 63.1101 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... operation. A unit operation may have more than one batch emission episode per batch cycle. For example, a... shutdowns and during periods not associated with a shutdown. Examples of activities that can generate... management units such as an air flotation unit, clarifier, or biological treatment unit. Examples of an oil...

40 CFR 63.1101 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... operation. A unit operation may have more than one batch emission episode per batch cycle. For example, a... shutdowns and during periods not associated with a shutdown. Examples of activities that can generate... management units such as an air flotation unit, clarifier, or biological treatment unit. Examples of an oil...

40 CFR 63.1101 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... operation. A unit operation may have more than one batch emission episode per batch cycle. For example, a... shutdowns and during periods not associated with a shutdown. Examples of activities that can generate... management units such as an air flotation unit, clarifier, or biological treatment unit. Examples of an oil...

40 CFR 63.1101 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... operation. A unit operation may have more than one batch emission episode per batch cycle. For example, a... shutdowns and during periods not associated with a shutdown. Examples of activities that can generate... management units such as an air flotation unit, clarifier, or biological treatment unit. Examples of an oil...

Technological Factors Affecting Biogenic Amine Content in Foods: A Review

PubMed Central

Gardini, Fausto; Özogul, Yesim; Suzzi, Giovanna; Tabanelli, Giulia; Özogul, Fatih

2016-01-01

Biogenic amines (BAs) are molecules, which can be present in foods and, due to their toxicity, can cause adverse effects on the consumers. BAs are generally produced by microbial decarboxylation of amino acids in food products. The most significant BAs occurring in foods are histamine, tyramine, putrescine, cadaverine, tryptamine, 2-phenylethylamine, spermine, spermidine, and agmatine. The importance of preventing the excessive accumulation of BAs in foods is related to their impact on human health and food quality. Quality criteria in connection with the presence of BAs in food and food products are necessary from a toxicological point of view. This is particularly important in fermented foods in which the massive microbial proliferation required for obtaining specific products is often relater with BAs accumulation. In this review, up-to-date information and recent discoveries about technological factors affecting BA content in foods are reviewed. Specifically, BA forming-microorganism and decarboxylation activity, genetic and metabolic organization of decarboxylases, risk associated to BAs (histamine, tyramine toxicity, and other BAs), environmental factors influencing BA formation (temperature, salt concentration, and pH). In addition, the technological factors for controlling BA production (use of starter culture, technological additives, effects of packaging, other non-thermal treatments, metabolizing BA by microorganisms, effects of pressure treatments on BA formation and antimicrobial substances) are addressed. PMID:27570519

Bile duct anastomotic stricture after pediatric living donor liver transplantation.

PubMed

Chok, Kenneth S H; Chan, See Ching; Chan, Kwong Leung; Sharr, William W; Tam, Paul K H; Fan, Sheung Tat; Lo, Chung Mau

2012-07-01

Hepaticojejunostomy is a well-accepted method, whereas duct-to-duct anastomosis is gaining popularity for bile duct reconstruction in pediatric living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). Biliary complications, especially biliary anastomotic stricture (BAS), are not clearly defined. The aim of the present study is to determine the rate of BAS and its associated risk factors. The study included 78 pediatric patients (<18 years old) who underwent LDLT during the period from end of September 1993 to end of November 2010. The diagnosis of BAS was based on clinical, biochemical, histologic, and radiologic results. All patients received left-side grafts. Thirteen patients (16.7%) developed BAS after LDLT. Among them, 3 patients (23.1%) had duct-to-duct anastomosis during LDLT. The median follow-up period for the BAS group and the non-BAS group was 57.8 and 79.5 months, respectively (P = .683). Ten of the patients with BAS required percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage with or without dilatation for treating the stricture. Multivariable analysis showed that hepatic artery thrombosis and duct-to-duct anastomosis were 2 risk factors associated with BAS. In pediatric LDLT, hepaticojejunostomy is the preferred method for bile duct reconstruction, but more large-scale research needs to be done to reconfirm this result. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Technological Factors Affecting Biogenic Amine Content in Foods: A Review.

PubMed

Gardini, Fausto; Özogul, Yesim; Suzzi, Giovanna; Tabanelli, Giulia; Özogul, Fatih

2016-01-01

Biogenic amines (BAs) are molecules, which can be present in foods and, due to their toxicity, can cause adverse effects on the consumers. BAs are generally produced by microbial decarboxylation of amino acids in food products. The most significant BAs occurring in foods are histamine, tyramine, putrescine, cadaverine, tryptamine, 2-phenylethylamine, spermine, spermidine, and agmatine. The importance of preventing the excessive accumulation of BAs in foods is related to their impact on human health and food quality. Quality criteria in connection with the presence of BAs in food and food products are necessary from a toxicological point of view. This is particularly important in fermented foods in which the massive microbial proliferation required for obtaining specific products is often relater with BAs accumulation. In this review, up-to-date information and recent discoveries about technological factors affecting BA content in foods are reviewed. Specifically, BA forming-microorganism and decarboxylation activity, genetic and metabolic organization of decarboxylases, risk associated to BAs (histamine, tyramine toxicity, and other BAs), environmental factors influencing BA formation (temperature, salt concentration, and pH). In addition, the technological factors for controlling BA production (use of starter culture, technological additives, effects of packaging, other non-thermal treatments, metabolizing BA by microorganisms, effects of pressure treatments on BA formation and antimicrobial substances) are addressed.

Factor structure and psychometric properties of a Spanish translation of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2).

PubMed

Swami, Viren; García, Antonio Alías; Barron, David

2017-09-01

We examined the psychometric properties of a Spanish translation of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2) in a community sample of 411 women and 389 men in Almería, Spain. Participants completed the 10-item BAS-2 along with measures of appearance evaluation, body areas satisfaction, self-esteem, life satisfaction, and self-reported body mass index (BMI). Exploratory factor analyses with one split-half subsample revealed that BAS-2 scores had a one-dimensional factor structure in women and men. Confirmatory factor analysis with a second split-half subsample showed the one-dimensional factor structure had acceptable fit and was invariant across sex. There were no significant sex differences in BAS-2 scores. BAS-2 scores were significantly and positively correlated with appearance evaluation, body areas satisfaction, self-esteem, and life satisfaction. Body appreciation was significantly and negatively correlated with BMI in men, but associations in women were only significant in the second subsample. Results suggest that the Spanish BAS-2 has adequate psychometric properties. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Dutch translation and validation of the Body Appreciation Scale-2: An investigation with female university students in the Netherlands.

PubMed

Alleva, Jessica M; Martijn, Carolien; Veldhuis, Jolanda; Tylka, Tracy L

2016-12-01

This paper describes a Dutch translation and validation of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2; Tylka & Wood-Barcalow, 2015a), an instrument for assessing key components of positive body image. Dutch-speaking female university students (N=310, M age =21.31, SD=3.04) completed the Dutch BAS-2. To assess its construct validity, participants also completed measures of appearance satisfaction, functionality satisfaction, self-objectification, self-esteem, and optimistic life orientation. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a one-dimensional factor structure of the Dutch BAS-2, substantiating the BAS-2 factor structure found in samples of U.S., Chinese, and Iranian university students and community adults. Dutch BAS-2 scores also demonstrated good internal consistency (α=.90), convergent validity, and incremental validity. In addition, lower body mass indices were associated with higher Dutch BAS-2 scores. The present findings support the cross-cultural equivalence of the BAS-2 and thus its promise in enabling research on positive body image in diverse cultural contexts. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Factor structure of the German version of the BIS/BAS Scales in a population-based sample].

PubMed

Müller, A; Smits, D; Claes, L; de Zwaan, M

2013-02-01

The Behavioural Inhibition System/Behavioural Activation System Scale (BIS/BAS-Scales) developed by Carver and White 1 is a self-rating instrument to assess the dispositional sensitivity to punishment and reward. The present work aims to examine the factor structure of the German version of the BIS/BAS-Scales. In a large German population-based sample (n = 1881) the model fit of several factor models was tested by using confirmatory factor analyses. The best model fit was found for the 5-factor model with two BIS (anxiety, fear) and three BAS (drive, reward responsiveness, fun seeking) scales, whereas the BIS-fear, the BAS-reward responsiveness, and the BAS-fun seeking subscales showed low internal consistency. The BIS/BAS scales were negatively correlated with age, and women reported higher BIS subscale scores than men. Confirmatory factor analyses suggest a 5-factor model. However, due to the low internal reliability of some of the subscales the use of this model is questionable. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart Cccc of... - Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

...) National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Manufacturing of Nutritional Yeast Pt. 63, Subpt... comply with the emission limitations in the following table: For each fed-batch fermenter producing yeast... duration of a batch.b. The emission limitation does not apply during the production of specialty yeast. ...

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart Cccc of... - Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

...) National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Manufacturing of Nutritional Yeast Pt. 63, Subpt... comply with the emission limitations in the following table: For each fed-batch fermenter producing yeast... duration of a batch.b. The emission limitation does not apply during the production of specialty yeast. ...

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart Cccc of... - Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

...) National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Manufacturing of Nutritional Yeast Pt. 63, Subpt... comply with the emission limitations in the following table: For each fed-batch fermenter producing yeast... duration of a batch.b. The emission limitation does not apply during the production of specialty yeast. ...

40 CFR 63.1326 - Batch process vents-recordkeeping provisions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

...): (i) For an incinerator or non-combustion control device, the percent reduction of organic HAP or TOC... introduced with combustion air or used as a secondary fuel and is not mixed with the primary fuel, the... scrubber or other halogen reduction device following a combustion device to control halogenated batch...

Reinforcement Sensitivity and Social Anxiety in Combat Veterans

PubMed Central

Kimbrel, Nathan A.; Meyer, Eric C.; DeBeer, Bryann B.; Mitchell, John T.; Kimbrel, Azure D.; Nelson-Gray, Rosemery O.; Morissette, Sandra B.

2017-01-01

Objective The present study tested the hypothesis that low behavioral approach system (BAS) sensitivity is associated with social anxiety in combat veterans. Method Self-report measures of reinforcement sensitivity, combat exposure, social interaction anxiety, and social observation anxiety were administered to 197 Iraq/Afghanistan combat veterans. Results As expected, combat exposure, behavioral inhibition system (BIS) sensitivity, and fight-flight-freeze system (FFFS) sensitivity were positively associated with both social interaction anxiety and social observation anxiety. In contrast, BAS sensitivity was negatively associated with social interaction anxiety only. An analysis of the BAS subscales revealed that the Reward Responsiveness subscale was the only BAS subscale associated with social interaction anxiety. BAS-Reward Responsiveness was also associated with social observation anxiety. Conclusion The findings from the present research provide further evidence that low BAS sensitivity may be associated with social anxiety over and above the effects of BIS and FFFS sensitivity. PMID:28966424

Reinforcement Sensitivity and Social Anxiety in Combat Veterans.

PubMed

Kimbrel, Nathan A; Meyer, Eric C; DeBeer, Bryann B; Mitchell, John T; Kimbrel, Azure D; Nelson-Gray, Rosemery O; Morissette, Sandra B

2016-08-01

The present study tested the hypothesis that low behavioral approach system (BAS) sensitivity is associated with social anxiety in combat veterans. Self-report measures of reinforcement sensitivity, combat exposure, social interaction anxiety, and social observation anxiety were administered to 197 Iraq/Afghanistan combat veterans. As expected, combat exposure, behavioral inhibition system (BIS) sensitivity, and fight-flight-freeze system (FFFS) sensitivity were positively associated with both social interaction anxiety and social observation anxiety. In contrast, BAS sensitivity was negatively associated with social interaction anxiety only. An analysis of the BAS subscales revealed that the Reward Responsiveness subscale was the only BAS subscale associated with social interaction anxiety. BAS-Reward Responsiveness was also associated with social observation anxiety. The findings from the present research provide further evidence that low BAS sensitivity may be associated with social anxiety over and above the effects of BIS and FFFS sensitivity.

40 CFR 1065.280 - Paramagnetic and magnetopneumatic O2 detection analyzers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... (CONTINUED) AIR POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING PROCEDURES Measurement Instruments O2 Measurements § 1065... diluted exhaust for batch or continuous sampling. You may use O2 measurements with intake air or fuel flow.... 15, 2011] Air-to-Fuel Ratio Measurements ...

40 CFR 1065.280 - Paramagnetic and magnetopneumatic O2 detection analyzers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... (CONTINUED) AIR POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING PROCEDURES Measurement Instruments O2 Measurements § 1065... diluted exhaust for batch or continuous sampling. You may use O2 measurements with intake air or fuel flow.... 15, 2011] Air-to-Fuel Ratio Measurements ...

Quantification of 15 bile acids in lake charr feces by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry

USGS Publications Warehouse

Li, Ke; Buchinger, Tyler J.; Bussy, Ugo; Fissette, Skye D.; Johnson, Nicholas; Li, Weiming

2015-01-01

Many fishes are hypothesized to use bile acids (BAs) as chemical cues, yet quantification of BAs in biological samples and the required methods remain limited. Here, we present an UHPLC–MS/MS method for simultaneous, sensitive, and rapid quantification of 15 BAs, including free, taurine, and glycine conjugated BAs, and application of the method to fecal samples from lake charr (Salvelinus namaycush). The analytes were separated on a C18 column with acetonitrile–water (containing 7.5 mM ammonium acetate and 0.1% formic acid) as mobile phase at a flow rate of 0.25 mL/min for 12 min. BAs were monitored with a negative electrospray triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (Xevo TQ-S™). Calibration curves of 15 BAs were linear over the concentration range of 1.00–5,000 ng/mL. Validation revealed that the method was specific, accurate, and precise. The method was applied to quantitative analysis of feces extract of fry lake charr and the food they were eating. The concentrations of analytes CA, TCDCA, TCA, and CDCA were 242.3, 81.2, 60.7, and 36.2 ng/mg, respectively. However, other taurine conjugated BAs, TUDCA, TDCA, and THDCA, were not detected in feces of lake charr. Interestingly, TCA and TCDCA were detected at high concentrations in food pellets, at 71.9 and 38.2 ng/mg, respectively. Application of the method to feces samples from lake charr supported a role of BAs as chemical cues, and will enhance further investigation of BAs as chemical cues in other fish species.

Deficit in rewarding mechanisms and prefrontal left/right cortical effect in vulnerability for internet addiction.

PubMed

Balconi, Michela; Finocchiaro, Roberta

2016-10-01

The present research explored the cortical correlates of rewarding mechanisms and cortical 'unbalance' effect in internet addiction (IA) vulnerability. Internet Addiction Inventory (IAT) and personality trait (Behavioural Inhibition System, BIS; Behavioural Activation System, BAS) were applied to 28 subjects. Electroencephalographic (EEG, alpha frequency band) and response times (RTs) were registered during a Go-NoGo task execution in response to different online stimuli: gambling videos, videogames or neutral stimuli. Higher-IAT (more than 50 score, with moderate or severe internet addiction) and lower-IAT (<50 score, with no internet addiction). Alpha band and RTs were affected by IAT, with significant bias (reduced RTs) for high-IAT in response to gambling videos and videogames; and by BAS, BAS-Reward subscale (BAS-R), since not only higher-IAT, but also BAS and BAS-R values determined an increasing of left prefrontal cortex (PFC) activity (alpha reduction) in response to videogames and gambling stimuli for both Go and NoGo conditions, in addition to decreased RTs for these stimuli categories. The increased PFC responsiveness and the lateralisation (left PFC hemisphere) effect in NoGo condition was explained on the basis of a 'rewarding bias' towards more rewarding cues and a deficit in inhibitory control in higher-IAT and higher-BAS subjects. In contrast lower-IAT and lower-BAS predicted a decreased PFC response and increased RTs for NoGo (inhibitory mechanism). These results may support the significance of personality (BAS) and IAT measures for explaining future internet addiction behaviour based on this observed 'vulnerability'.

Installation Restoration Program Records Search for George Air Force Base, California

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-06-01

located in the Mojave Desert. The climate is arid with long hot summers and short cool winters. The mean 3relative humidity ranges from 27 percent in...abitat Native plant and animal comunities on base reflect the dry climatic conditions of an upland desert region. Along the eastern border of the bas...soil conditions because of a low ground- water table and the dry climatic conditions. While native systems are disrupted in the immediate vicinity of

R2PL 2005 - Proceedings of the First International Workshop on Reengineering towards Product Lines

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-03-01

thinking. Other domain engineer- ing approaches are FODA [6] and FORM [7]. Typically these approaches are based on the analysis of high-level...November 1998. [6] Kyo C. Kang, Sholom G. Cohen, James A. Hess, William E. Novak, and A. Spencer Peterson. Feature-oriented do- main analysis ( FODA ... Analysis � by Bas Graaf, Bas Cornelissen, and Leon Moonen. © 2006 by Bas Graaf, Bas Cornelissen, and Leon Moonen. �Identifying Domain-Specific

Profiling of urinary bile acids in piglets by a combination of enzymatic deconjugation and targeted LC-MRM-MS[S

PubMed Central

Fang, Nianbai; Yu, Shanggong; Adams, Sean H.; Ronis, Martin J. J.; Badger, Thomas M.

2016-01-01

We present a method using a combination of enzymatic deconjugation and targeted LC-multiple reaction monitoring (MRM)-MS analysis for analyzing all common bile acids (BAs) in piglet urine, and in particular, for detecting conjugated BAs either in the absence of their standards, or when present in low concentrations. Initially, before enzymatic deconjugation, 19 unconjugated BAs (FBAs) were detected where the total concentration of the detected FBAs was 9.90 μmol/l. Sixty-seven conjugated BAs were identified by LC-MRM-MS analysis before and after enzymatic deconjugation. Four enzymatic assays were used to deconjugate the BA conjugates. FBAs in urine after cholylglycine hydrolase/sulfatase treatment were 33.40 μmol/l, indicating the urinary BAs were comprised of 29.75% FBAs and 70.25% conjugated BAs in single and multiple conjugated forms. For the conjugates in single form, released FBAs from cholylglycine hydrolase deconjugation indicated that the conjugates with amino acids were 14.54% of urinary BAs, 16.27% glycosidic conjugates were found by β-glucuronidase treatment, and sulfatase with glucuronidase inhibitor treatment liberated FBAs that constituted 16.67% of urinary BAs. Notably, chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) was initially detected only in trace amounts in urine, but was found at significant levels after the enzymatic assays above. These results support that CDCA is a precursor of γ-muricholic acid in BA biosynthesis in piglets. PMID:27538824

Analyzing Movements Development and Evaluation of the Body Awareness Scale Movement Quality (BAS MQ).

PubMed

Sundén, A; Ekdahl, C; Horstman, V; Gyllensten, A L

2016-06-01

Limitations in everyday movements, physical activities are/or pain are the main reasons for seeking help from a physiotherapist. The purpose of this study was to investigate the psychometric properties of the Body Awareness Scale Movement Quality (BAS MQ) focusing on factor structure, validity and reliability and to explore whether BAS MQ could discriminate between healthy individuals and patients. BAS MQ assesses both limitations and resources concerning functional ability and quality of movements. The total sample in the study (n = 172) consisted of individuals with hip osteoarthritis (OA) (n = 132), individuals with psychiatric disorders (n = 33) and healthy individuals (n = 7). A factor analysis of the BAS MQ was performed for the total group. Inter-rater reliability was tested in a group of individuals with hip OA (n = 24). Concurrent validity was tested in a group of individuals with hip OA (n = 89). The Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) and the Hip Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS) were chosen in the validation process. The factor analysis revealed three factors that together explained 60.8% of the total variance of BAS MQ. The inter-rater reliability was considered good or very good with a kappa value of 0.61. Significant correlations between BAS MQ and SF-36, HOOS and 6MWT in the subjects with hip OA confirmed the validity. The BAS MQ was able to discriminate between healthy individuals and individuals with physical and psychiatric limitations. Results of the study revealed that BAS MQ has a satisfactory factor structure. The inter-rater reliability and validity were acceptable in a group of individuals with hip OA. BAS MQ could be a useful assessment tool for physiotherapists when evaluating the quality of everyday movements in different patient groups. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The Behavioral Approach System (BAS) Model of Vulnerability to Bipolar Disorder: Evidence of a Continuum in BAS Sensitivity across Adolescence.

PubMed

Liu, Richard T; Burke, Taylor A; Abramson, Lyn Y; Alloy, Lauren B

2017-11-04

Behavioral Approach System (BAS) sensitivity has been implicated in the development of a variety of different psychiatric disorders. Prominent among these in the empirical literature are bipolar spectrum disorders (BSDs). Given that adolescence represents a critical developmental stage of risk for the onset of BSDs, it is important to clarify the latent structure of BAS sensitivity in this period of development. A statistical approach especially well-suited for delineating the latent structure of BAS sensitivity is taxometric analysis, which is designed to evaluate whether the latent structure of a construct is taxonic (i.e., categorical) or dimensional (i.e., continuous) in nature. The current study applied three mathematically non-redundant taxometric procedures (i.e., MAMBAC, MAXEIG, and L-Mode) to a large community sample of adolescents (n = 12,494) who completed two separate measures of BAS sensitivity: the BIS/BAS Scales Carver and White (Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 67, 319-333. 1994) and the Sensitivity to Reward and Sensitivity to Punishment Questionnaire (Torrubia et al. Personality and Individual Differences, 31, 837-862. 2001). Given the significant developmental changes in reward sensitivity that occur across adolescence, the current investigation aimed to provide a fine-grained evaluation of the data by performing taxometric analyses at an age-by-age level (14-19 years; n for each age ≥ 883). Results derived from taxometric procedures, across all ages tested, were highly consistent, providing strong evidence that BAS sensitivity is best conceptualized as dimensional in nature. Thus, the findings suggest that BAS-related vulnerability to BSDs exists along a continuum of severity, with no natural cut-point qualitatively differentiating high- and low-risk adolescents. Clinical and research implications for the assessment of BSD-related vulnerability are discussed.

Balloon atrial septostomy in pulmonary arterial hypertension: effect on survival and associated outcomes.

PubMed

Chiu, Joanne S; Zuckerman, Warren A; Turner, Mariel E; Richmond, Marc E; Kerstein, Diane; Krishnan, Usha; Torres, Alejandro; Vincent, Julie A; Rosenzweig, Erika B

2015-03-01

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive disease that, without early identification and treatment, may lead to right heart failure, multi-organ dysfunction and early death. In severe PAH, in addition to maximal medical therapy, balloon atrial septostomy (BAS) may be used for palliation and as a bridge to lung transplantation. We present our contemporary institutional experience utilizing BAS in adult and pediatric patients with severe PAH. We performed a retrospective analysis of 46 BASs performed in 32 patients with PAH from 2002 to 2013. Data obtained included vital status, functional class, medications, hemodynamic measurements from right heart catheterizations and biomarkers. Lung transplantation-free and repeat-BAS-free survival was analyzed. Median age at BAS was 23 (range 1 to 56) years. The most common indications were symptomatic right heart failure (21 of 46 patients) and pre-syncope/syncope (19 of 46 patients); 69% of patients were WHO Functional Class III or IV pre-BAS. There were no procedural complications or deaths. There were no significant differences in biomarkers or hemodynamic findings between pre-BAS and 1 year or latest follow-up. Seven patients were successfully bridged to lung transplantation. Lung transplantation-free and repeat-BAS-free survival at 30 days, 1 year and 5 years was 87%, 61% and 32%, respectively. In our experienced center, BAS was shown to be safe in patients with severe PAH on maximal medical management, with no procedural deaths or complications. BAS was safely used as a bridge to lung transplantation or to alleviate right heart failure symptoms and/or syncope. Other potential benefits for end-organ function and overall survival remain to be determined. Copyright © 2015 International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Influence of Forward and Backward Associative Strength on False Memories for Encoding Context

PubMed Central

Arndt, Jason

2016-01-01

Two experiments examined the effects of Forward Associative Strength (FAS) and Backward Associative Strength (FAS) on false recollection of unstudied lure items. Themes were constructed such that four associates were strongly related to a lure item in terms of FAS or BAS and four associates were weakly related to a lure item in terms of FAS or BAS. Further, when FAS was manipulated, BAS was controlled across strong and weak associates, while FAS was controlled across strong and weak associates when BAS was manipulated. Strong associates were presented in one font while weak associates were presented in a second font. At test, lure items were disproportionately attributed to the source used to present lures’ strong associates compared to lures’ weak associates, both when BAS was manipulated and when FAS was manipulated. This outcome demonstrates that both BAS and FAS influence lure item false recollection, which favors global-matching models’ explanation of false recollection over the explanation offered by spreading-activation theories. PMID:25312499

Evaluating the psychometric properties of the Polish version of the Body Appreciation Scale-2.

PubMed

Razmus, Magdalena; Razmus, Wiktor

2017-12-01

This study aimed to investigate the factor structure and psychometric properties of a Polish version of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2; Tylka & Wood-Barcalow, 2015). Data were collected from 721 individuals residing in various regions of Poland. There were two subsamples (n=336, age M=34.95, SD=10.83; and n=385, age M=35.38, SD=10.83). Both principal-axis and confirmatory factor analyses supported the one-dimensional structure of BAS-2 scores. Moreover, full scalar invariance of the BAS-2 in Poland across sex was demonstrated. Scores on the Polish BAS-2 had adequate internal consistency. Convergent validity was demonstrated through significant correlations between BAS-2 scores and variables related to body image (body and appearance self-conscious emotions), well-being (self-esteem, positive affect, and positive orientation), and body mass index. These results indicate that the Polish BAS-2 is an appropriate and psychometrically-sound measure of body appreciation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Metabolic Profile of Obeticholic Acid and Endogenous Bile Acids in Rats with Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis

PubMed Central

Aldini, R; Camborata, C; Spinozzi, S; Franco, P; Cont, M; D'Errico, A; Vasuri, F; Degiovanni, A; Maroni, L; Adorini, L

2017-01-01

Obeticholic acid (OCA) is a semisynthetic bile acid (BA) analog and potent farnesoid X receptor agonist approved to treat cholestasis. We evaluated the biodistribution and metabolism of OCA administered to carbon tetrachloride‐induced cirrhotic rats. This was to ascertain if plasma and hepatic concentrations of OCA are potentially more harmful than those of endogenous BAs. After administration of OCA (30 mg/kg), we used liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry to measure OCA, its metabolites, and BAs at different timepoints in various organs and fluids. Plasma and hepatic concentrations of OCA and BAs were higher in cirrhotic rats than in controls. OCA and endogenous BAs had similar metabolic pathways in cirrhotic rats, although OCA hepatic and intestinal clearance were lower than in controls. BAs' qualitative and quantitative compositions were not modified by a single administration of OCA. In all the matrices studied, OCA concentrations were significantly lower than those of endogenous BAs, potentially much more cytotoxic. PMID:28411380

Reciprocal interactions between bile acids and gut microbiota in human liver diseases.

PubMed

Ikegami, Tadashi; Honda, Akira

2018-01-01

The gut microbiota (GM) play a central role in their host's metabolism of bile acids (BAs) by regulating deconjugation, dehydroxylation, dehydrogenation, and epimerization reactions to generate unconjugated free BAs and secondary BAs. These BAs generated by the GM are potent signaling molecules that interact with BA receptors, such as the farnesoid X receptor and Takeda G-protein-coupled receptor 5. Each BA has a differential affinity to these receptors; therefore, alterations in BA composition by GM could modify the intensity of receptor signaling. Bile acids also act as antimicrobial agents by damaging bacterial membranes and as detergents by altering intracellular macromolecular structures. Therefore, BAs and the GM reciprocally control each other's compositions. In this review, we discuss the latest findings on the mutual effects of BAs and GM on each other; we also describe their roles in the pathophysiology of liver disease progression and potential therapeutic applications of targeting this cross-talk. © 2017 The Japan Society of Hepatology.

Distinguishing between learning and motivation in behavioral tests of the reinforcement sensitivity theory of personality.

PubMed

Smillie, Luke D; Dalgleish, Len I; Jackson, Chris J

2007-04-01

According to Gray's (1973) Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory (RST), a Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS) and a Behavioral Activation System (BAS) mediate effects of goal conflict and reward on behavior. BIS functioning has been linked with individual differences in trait anxiety and BAS functioning with individual differences in trait impulsivity. In this article, it is argued that behavioral outputs of the BIS and BAS can be distinguished in terms of learning and motivation processes and that these can be operationalized using the Signal Detection Theory measures of response-sensitivity and response-bias. In Experiment 1, two measures of BIS-reactivity predicted increased response-sensitivity under goal conflict, whereas one measure of BAS-reactivity predicted increased response-sensitivity under reward. In Experiment 2, two measures of BIS-reactivity predicted response-bias under goal conflict, whereas a measure of BAS-reactivity predicted motivation response-bias under reward. In both experiments, impulsivity measures did not predict criteria for BAS-reactivity as traditionally predicted by RST.

Profiling of urinary bile acids in piglets by a combination of enzymatic deconjugation and targeted LC-MRM-MS.

PubMed

Fang, Nianbai; Yu, Shanggong; Adams, Sean H; Ronis, Martin J J; Badger, Thomas M

2016-10-01

We present a method using a combination of enzymatic deconjugation and targeted LC-multiple reaction monitoring (MRM)-MS analysis for analyzing all common bile acids (BAs) in piglet urine, and in particular, for detecting conjugated BAs either in the absence of their standards, or when present in low concentrations. Initially, before enzymatic deconjugation, 19 unconjugated BAs (FBAs) were detected where the total concentration of the detected FBAs was 9.90 μmol/l. Sixty-seven conjugated BAs were identified by LC-MRM-MS analysis before and after enzymatic deconjugation. Four enzymatic assays were used to deconjugate the BA conjugates. FBAs in urine after cholylglycine hydrolase/sulfatase treatment were 33.40 μmol/l, indicating the urinary BAs were comprised of 29.75% FBAs and 70.25% conjugated BAs in single and multiple conjugated forms. For the conjugates in single form, released FBAs from cholylglycine hydrolase deconjugation indicated that the conjugates with amino acids were 14.54% of urinary BAs, 16.27% glycosidic conjugates were found by β-glucuronidase treatment, and sulfatase with glucuronidase inhibitor treatment liberated FBAs that constituted 16.67% of urinary BAs. Notably, chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) was initially detected only in trace amounts in urine, but was found at significant levels after the enzymatic assays above. These results support that CDCA is a precursor of γ-muricholic acid in BA biosynthesis in piglets. Copyright © 2016 by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

The Scientific Application of Light and Color to the Dental Environment.

DTIC Science & Technology

1978-08-01

and adjunctive fiber—optic illumination in dental handpieces is becoming popular ( 8 ) . The ideal ratio of Intraoral to extraoral illumination is...AD AOS9 733 SCHOOL OF AEROSPACE MEDICINE RROOKS AFB 1TX F/G 6/5 THE SCIENTIFIC APPLICATION OF LIGHT ANn COLOR To THE DENTAL ENV——ETCCU ) AUG 78 W R...Medical Division (AFSC) Brooks Air Force Bas.,Texos 78235 :1 NOTICES This final report was submitted by personnel of the Dental Investigation Service

40 CFR 1065.280 - Paramagnetic and magnetopneumatic O2 detection analyzers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... (CONTINUED) AIR POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING PROCEDURES Measurement Instruments O2 Measurements § 1065... diluted exhaust for batch or continuous sampling. You may use O2 measurements with intake air or fuel flow... 57443, Sept. 15, 2011;79 FR 23762, Apr. 28, 2014] Air-to-Fuel Ratio Measurements ...

40 CFR Appendix I to Part 204 - Appendix I to Part 204

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... plane composition: Operating speed as tested: Beginning of test rpm End of test rpm Air pressure... acceptance not permitted for this number of batches. Table IV—Recommended Format for Portable Air Compressor... capacity: cfm (m3/in). Configuration identification: Category identification: Portable air compressor...

40 CFR Appendix I to Part 204 - Appendix I to Part 204

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... plane composition: Operating speed as tested: Beginning of test rpm End of test rpm Air pressure... acceptance not permitted for this number of batches. Table IV—Recommended Format for Portable Air Compressor... capacity: cfm (m3/in). Configuration identification: Category identification: Portable air compressor...

40 CFR Appendix I to Part 204 - Appendix I to Part 204

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... plane composition: Operating speed as tested: Beginning of test rpm End of test rpm Air pressure... acceptance not permitted for this number of batches. Table IV—Recommended Format for Portable Air Compressor... capacity: cfm (m3/in). Configuration identification: Category identification: Portable air compressor...

Ideas that Work!. Retuning the Building Automation System

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

Parker, Steven

A building automation system (BAS) can save considerable energy by effectively and efficiently operating building energy systems (fans, pumps, chillers boilers, etc.), but only when the BAS is properly set up and operated. Tuning, or retuning, the BAS is a cost effective process worthy of your time and attention.

Multicomponent Therapeutics of Berberine Alkaloids

PubMed Central

Luo, Jiaoyang; Yan, Dan; Yang, Meihua; Dong, Xiaoping; Xiao, Xiaohe

2013-01-01

Although berberine alkaloids (BAs) are reported to be with broad-spectrum antibacterial and antiviral activities, the interactions among BAs have not been elucidated. In the present study, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was chosen as a model organism, and modified broth microdilution was applied for the determination of the fluorescence absorption values to calculate the anti-MRSA activity of BAs. We have initiated four steps to seek the optimal combination of BAs that are (1) determining the anti-MRSA activity of single BA, (2) investigating the two-component combination to clarify the interactions among BAs by checkerboard assay, (3) investigating the multicomponent combination to determine the optimal ratio by quadratic rotation-orthogonal combination design, and (4) in vivo and in vitro validation of the optimal combination. The results showed that the interactions among BAs are related to their concentrations. The synergetic combinations included “berberine and epiberberine,” “jatrorrhizine and palmatine” and “jatrorrhizine and coptisine”; the antagonistic combinations included “coptisine and epiberberine”. The optimal combination was berberine : coptisine : jatrorrhizine : palmatine : epiberberine = 0.702 : 0.863 : 1 : 0.491 : 0.526, and the potency of the optimal combination on cyclophosphamide-immunocompromised mouse model was better than the natural combinations of herbs containing BAs. PMID:23634170

Fun Seeking and Reward Responsiveness Moderate the Effect of the Behavioural Inhibition System on Coping-Motivated Problem Gambling.

PubMed

Keough, Matthew T; Wardell, Jeffrey D; Hendershot, Christian S; Bagby, R Michael; Quilty, Lena C

2017-09-01

Gray's Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory (RST) predicts that the Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS) may relate to coping-motivated problem gambling, given its central role in anxiety. Studies examining the BIS-problem gambling association, however, are mixed. The revised RST posits that the Behavioral Approach System (BAS) may moderate the effect of the BIS on coping-motivated problem gambling. A concurrently strong BAS may highlight the negatively reinforcing effects of gambling, which may strengthen coping motives and increase gambling-related harms. We examined these interactive effects to clarify the moderators and mediators of the negative reinforcement pathway to problem gambling. Data came from a larger investigation of problem gambling among individuals with mood disorders. All participants (N = 275) met criteria for a lifetime depressive or bipolar disorder. During a two-day assessment, participants completed a diagnostic assessment and self-reports. Mediated moderation path analysis showed positive indirect effects from the BIS to problem gambling via coping motives at high, but not at low, levels of BAS-Reward Responsiveness and BAS-Fun Seeking. Enhancement motives were also found to mediate the associations of BAS-Fun Seeking and BAS-Drive with problem gambling. Reward Responsiveness and Fun Seeking facets of the BAS may strengthen coping gambling motives within the mood disorders.

The role of backward associative strength in false recognition of DRM lists with multiple critical words.

PubMed

Beato, María S; Arndt, Jason

2017-08-01

Memory is a reconstruction of the past and is prone to errors. One of the most widely-used paradigms to examine false memory is the Deese/Roediger-McDermott (DRM) paradigm. In this paradigm, participants studied words associatively related to a non-presented critical word. In a subsequent memory test critical words are often falsely recalled and/or recognized. In the present study, we examined the influence of backward associative strength (BAS) on false recognition using DRM lists with multiple critical words. In forty-eight English DRM lists, we manipulated BAS while controlling forward associative strength (FAS). Lists included four words (e.g., prison, convict, suspect, fugitive) simultaneously associated with two critical words (e.g., CRIMINAL, JAIL). The results indicated that true recognition was similar in high-BAS and low-BAS lists, while false recognition was greater in high-BAS lists than in low-BAS lists. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between false recognition and the probability of a resonant connection between the studied words and their associates. These findings suggest that BAS and resonant connections influence false recognition, and extend prior research using DRM lists associated with a single critical word to studies of DRM lists associated with multiple critical words.

Pilot Study Report, Cape Canaveral Air Station, Florida. Permeable Reactive Treatment (PeRT) Wall Pilot Study. Revision 2

DTIC Science & Technology

1999-11-01

slurry was made from mixing iron, guar gum , an enzyme and borax. The guar gum was Hercules Supercol™ food grade fine (200-mesh size) powder . It was...Florida The guar gum was mixed with water in batches in a stirred open top tank to form 2 to 3% solutions. The guar gum solution was pumped first to a...holding tank, then into a truck-mounted batch mixing plant. A positive displacement pump controlled the feed rate of guar gum to the batch mixing plant

Reduction of biogenic amines in sufu by ethanol addition during ripening stage

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The aim of this study was to investigate the contents of biogenic amines (BAs) in different types of sufu samples obtained from different producers, and also the possible effect of addition of ethanol on reducing the levels of BAs during sufu ripening. The levels of BAs in sufu samples were analyze...

Metabolic Profile of Obeticholic Acid and Endogenous Bile Acids in Rats with Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis.

PubMed

Roda, A; Aldini, R; Camborata, C; Spinozzi, S; Franco, P; Cont, M; D'Errico, A; Vasuri, F; Degiovanni, A; Maroni, L; Adorini, L

2017-07-01

Obeticholic acid (OCA) is a semisynthetic bile acid (BA) analog and potent farnesoid X receptor agonist approved to treat cholestasis. We evaluated the biodistribution and metabolism of OCA administered to carbon tetrachloride-induced cirrhotic rats. This was to ascertain if plasma and hepatic concentrations of OCA are potentially more harmful than those of endogenous BAs. After administration of OCA (30 mg/kg), we used liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to measure OCA, its metabolites, and BAs at different timepoints in various organs and fluids. Plasma and hepatic concentrations of OCA and BAs were higher in cirrhotic rats than in controls. OCA and endogenous BAs had similar metabolic pathways in cirrhotic rats, although OCA hepatic and intestinal clearance were lower than in controls. BAs' qualitative and quantitative compositions were not modified by a single administration of OCA. In all the matrices studied, OCA concentrations were significantly lower than those of endogenous BAs, potentially much more cytotoxic. © 2017 The Authors. Clinical and Translational Science published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics.

An examination of the factor structure and sex invariance of a French translation of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 in university students.

PubMed

Kertechian, Sevag; Swami, Viren

2017-06-01

The Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2) is a measure of positive body image that has been found that have a one-dimensional factor structure in a number of different cultural groups. Here, we examined the factor structure and sex-based measurement invariance of a French translation of the BAS-2. A total of 652 university students (age M=21.33, SD=3.18) completed a newly-translated French version of the BAS-2. Exploratory factor analyses with a randomly selected split-half subsample revealed that the BAS-2 had a one-dimensional factor structure in both sexes. Confirmatory factor analyses with a second split-half subsample indicated that the one-dimensional factor structure had adequate fit following modifications and was invariant across sex. French BAS-2 scores had adequate internal consistency and men had significantly higher body appreciation than women (ds=.16-.23). These results provide preliminary support for the factorial validity of the French BAS-2. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Factor structure and psychometric properties of a Romanian translation of the Body Appreciation Scale-2.

PubMed

Swami, Viren; Tudorel, Otilia; Goian, Cosmin; Barron, David; Vintila, Mona

2017-12-01

We examined the psychometric properties of a Romanian translation of the 10-item Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2). A total of 453 university students from Romania completed the BAS-2, along with measures of disordered eating, self-esteem, satisfaction with life, and subjective happiness. In addition, a separate sample of university students (N=109) completed only the BAS-2 at two time-points three weeks apart. Principal-axis factor analysis indicated that BAS-2 scores had a one-dimensional factor structure in both women and men. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that this factor structure had adequate fit, but invariance across sex was not supported. Further analyses indicated that BAS-2 scores evidenced internal consistency, convergent validity, and test-retest reliability in both women and men. These results suggest that BAS-2 scores reduce to one dimension in Romanian adults, but the lack of sex invariance may indicate that the same latent construct is not being measured in women and men. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Seeded growth of boron arsenide single crystals with high thermal conductivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Fei; Song, Bai; Lv, Bing; Sun, Jingying; Huyan, Shuyuan; Wu, Qi; Mao, Jun; Ni, Yizhou; Ding, Zhiwei; Huberman, Samuel; Liu, Te-Huan; Chen, Gang; Chen, Shuo; Chu, Ching-Wu; Ren, Zhifeng

2018-01-01

Materials with high thermal conductivities are crucial to effectively cooling high-power-density electronic and optoelectronic devices. Recently, zinc-blende boron arsenide (BAs) has been predicted to have a very high thermal conductivity of over 2000 W m-1 K-1 at room temperature by first-principles calculations, rendering it a close competitor for diamond which holds the highest thermal conductivity among bulk materials. Experimental demonstration, however, has proved extremely challenging, especially in the preparation of large high quality single crystals. Although BAs crystals have been previously grown by chemical vapor transport (CVT), the growth process relies on spontaneous nucleation and results in small crystals with multiple grains and various defects. Here, we report a controllable CVT synthesis of large single BAs crystals (400-600 μm) by using carefully selected tiny BAs single crystals as seeds. We have obtained BAs single crystals with a thermal conductivity of 351 ± 21 W m-1 K-1 at room temperature, which is almost twice as conductive as previously reported BAs crystals. Further improvement along this direction is very likely.

Effect of Oryzalin and 1,1-Dimethylpiperidinium Chloride on Cotton and Tomato Roots Infected with the Root-knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita

PubMed Central

Orum, T. V.; Bartels, P. G.; McClure, M. A.

1979-01-01

Oryzalin (3,5-dinitro-N4,N4-dipropyl-sulfanilamide) and BAS 083 (l,l-dimethylpiperdinium chloride) reduced root-knot infection in tomato roots when respectively applied as a soil drench at 20 ppm and 10,000 ppm. Oryzalin reduced knot counts with various intervals between treatment and inoculation. BAS 083 reduced knot counts only when applied before inoculation. Oryzalin was shown not to be a contact nematicide, and BAS 083 was only a weak one. Neither compound reduced penetration by infective larvae. Postinfection reduction in knot counts by Oryzalin and BAS 083 resulted, in part, from activation of natural defense mechanisms of the host. Giant-cell development in cotton roots inoculated with nematodes was inhibited by Oryzalin. Lateral root development was inhibited by BAS 083. PMID:19305533

Kinetics of Some Metal Atom and Metal Fluoride Oxidation Reactions Relevant to Air Force Technology Development

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-03-01

Products and Chemicals , Inc ., supplied a complete analysis with each cylinder. Initial measurements with the original batch (cylinder 1) were considered...NF 3] in this limited tempera- ture range. The NFs used in these experiments was made available by Kelly Air Force Base. The manufacturer, Air

40 CFR 1065.280 - Paramagnetic and magnetopneumatic O2 detection analyzers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... (CONTINUED) AIR POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING PROCEDURES Measurement Instruments O2 Measurements § 1065... diluted exhaust for batch or continuous sampling. You may use O2 measurements with intake air or fuel flow...), regardless of the uncompensated signal's bias. [73 FR 37300, June 30, 2008] Air-to-Fuel Ratio Measurements ...

Prevalence of Herbal Therapy Use in Active Duty Air Force Women

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-04-24

Effects and Drug Interactions............................ 22 xi Health Perception and Herbal Use..................................................... 25...required of conventional drugs , and they are not subject to the approval process of the FDA (Cupp, 1999). Also, unlike conventional drugs , herbal...batch-to-batch variability can cause adverse effects and drug interactions. 3 Controlled studies of herbal medicines are not profitable, so there is

A High-Fidelity Batch Simulation Environment for Integrated Batch and Piloted Air Combat Simulation Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goodrich, Kenneth H.; McManus, John W.; Chappell, Alan R.

1992-01-01

A batch air combat simulation environment known as the Tactical Maneuvering Simulator (TMS) is presented. The TMS serves as a tool for developing and evaluating tactical maneuvering logics. The environment can also be used to evaluate the tactical implications of perturbations to aircraft performance or supporting systems. The TMS is capable of simulating air combat between any number of engagement participants, with practical limits imposed by computer memory and processing power. Aircraft are modeled using equations of motion, control laws, aerodynamics and propulsive characteristics equivalent to those used in high-fidelity piloted simulation. Databases representative of a modern high-performance aircraft with and without thrust-vectoring capability are included. To simplify the task of developing and implementing maneuvering logics in the TMS, an outer-loop control system known as the Tactical Autopilot (TA) is implemented in the aircraft simulation model. The TA converts guidance commands issued by computerized maneuvering logics in the form of desired angle-of-attack and wind axis-bank angle into inputs to the inner-loop control augmentation system of the aircraft. This report describes the capabilities and operation of the TMS.

Incidence of hemorrhagic stroke in black Caribbean, black African, and white populations: the South London stroke register, 1995-2004.

PubMed

Smeeton, Nigel C; Heuschmann, Peter U; Rudd, Anthony G; McEvoy, Andrew W; Kitchen, Neil D; Sarker, Shah Jalal; Wolfe, Charles D A

2007-12-01

Data are lacking on the differences in hemorrhagic stroke incidence between black Caribbean (BC), black African (BA), and white ethnic groups. We estimated the incidence for primary intracerebral hemorrhage (PICH) and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and the associated risk factors for BCs, BAs, and whites. First-ever stroke patients were drawn from a prospective community stroke register based in a multiethnic population in South London with 9% BCs, 15% BAs, and 63% whites. Incidence rates were standardized to European and world populations and adjusted for age and sex. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) relative to whites were calculated by Poisson regression. Between 1995 and 2004, 566 incident stroke patients were registered: 395 PICHs and 171 SAHs. For PICH, age- and sex-adjusted IRRs were higher in BAs (IRR, 2.80; 95% CI, 2.00 to 3.91) than in BCs (IRR, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.07 to 1.99) and were particularly pronounced for patients age 0 to 64 years: IRR=3.95 (95% CI, 2.65 to 5.87) in BAs and 2.38 (95% CI, 1.50 to 3.80) in BCs. For those <65 years, prestroke hypertension was more prevalent in BAs and BCs (P=0.049). For SAH, the IRR was higher in BCs (IRR; 1.62; 95% CI, 1.05 to 2.48) than in BAs (IRR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.43 to 1.46). The higher incidence of PICH observed in BCs and BAs could be explained by prestroke hypertension being more common among young blacks. The different incidences of SAH in BCs and BAs suggest that the baseline risk of stroke for distinct black ethnic groups is not homogeneous.

Bas-relief map using texture analysis with application to live enhancement of ultrasound images.

PubMed

Du, Huarui; Ma, Rui; Wang, Xiaoying; Zhang, Jue; Fang, Jing

2015-05-01

For ultrasound imaging, speckle is one of the most important factors in the degradation of contrast resolution because it masks meaningful texture and has the potential to interfere with diagnosis. It is expected that researchers would explore appropriate ways to reduce the speckle noise, to find the edges of structures and enhance weak borders between different organs in ultrasound imaging. Inspired by the principle of differential interference contrast microscopy, a "bas-relief map" is proposed that depicts the texture structure of ultrasound images. Based on a bas-relief map, an adaptive bas-relief filter was developed for ultrafast despeckling. Subsequently, an edge map was introduced to enhance the edges of images in real time. The holistic bas-relief map approach has been used experimentally with synthetic phantoms and digital ultrasound B-scan images of liver, kidney and gallbladder. Based on the visual inspection and the performance metrics of the despeckled images, it was found that the bas-relief map approach is capable of effectively reducing the speckle while significantly enhancing contrast and tissue boundaries for ultrasonic images, and its speckle reduction ability is comparable to that of Kuan, Lee and Frost filters. Meanwhile, the proposed technique could preserve more intra-region details compared with the popular speckle reducing anisotropic diffusion technique and more effectively enhance edges. In addition, the adaptive bas-relief filter was much less time consuming than the Kuan, Lee and Frost filter and speckle reducing anisotropic diffusion techniques. The bas-relief map strategy is effective for speckle reduction and live enhancement of ultrasound images, and can provide a valuable tool for clinical diagnosis. Copyright © 2015 World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

PTSD's underlying symptom dimensions and relations with behavioral inhibition and activation.

PubMed

Contractor, Ateka A; Elhai, Jon D; Ractliffe, Kendra C; Forbes, David

2013-10-01

Reinforcement sensitivity theory (RST) stipulates that individuals have a behavioral activation system (BAS) guiding approach (rewarding) behaviors (Gray, 1971, 1981), and behavioral inhibition system (BIS) guiding conflict resolution between approach and avoidance (punishment) behaviors (Gray & McNaughton, 2000). Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) severity overall relates to both BIS (e.g., Myers, VanMeenen, & Servatius, 2012; Pickett, Bardeen, & Orcutt, 2011) and BAS (Pickett et al., 2011). Using a more refined approach, we assessed specific relations between PTSD's latent factors (Simms, Watson, & Doebbeling, 2002) and observed variables measuring BIS and BAS using 308 adult, trauma-exposed primary care patients. Confirmatory factor analysis and Wald chi-square tests demonstrated a significantly greater association with BIS severity compared to BAS severity for PTSD's dysphoria, avoidance, and re-experiencing factors. Further, PTSD's avoidance factor significantly mediated relations between BIS/BAS severity and PTSD's dysphoria factor. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of the Impact of Storage Conditions on the Biogenic Amines Profile in Opened Wine Bottles.

PubMed

Płotka-Wasylka, Justyna; Simeonov, Vasil; Namieśnik, Jacek

2018-05-09

A survey of biogenic amine (BA) profiles in opened wine bottles has been established to monitor the level of biogenic amines (BAs) in opened bottles against time and other conditions. Bottles of red and white wine were submitted to different temperatures, stopper type (screw cap, cork), and use of vacuum devices. A total of six wines made from a variety of grapes were obtained from vineyards from regions across Poland. Dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (DLLME-GC-MS) procedure for BAs determination was validated and applied for wine sample analysis. The total content of BAs from the set of immediately opened wine samples ranged from 442 to 929 µg/L for white wines, and 669 to 2244 µg/L for red wines. The most abundant BAs in the analysed wines were histamine and putrescine. Considering the commercial availability of the analysed wines, there was no relationship between the presence of BAs in a given wine and their availability on the market. However, it was observed and confirmed by chemometric analysis that the different storage conditions employed in this experiment affect not only the BAs profile, but also the pH.

Physiological Response to Reward and Extinction Predicts Alcohol, Marijuana, and Cigarette Use Two Years Later

PubMed Central

Derefinko, Karen J.; Eisenlohr-Moul, Tory A.; Peters, Jessica R.; Roberts, Walter; Walsh, Erin C.; Milich, Richard; Lynam, Donald R.

2017-01-01

Background Physiological responses to reward and extinction are believed to represent the Behavioral Activation System (BAS) and Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS) constructs of Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory and underlie externalizing behaviors, including substance use. However, little research has examined these relations directly. Methods We assessed individuals’ cardiac pre-ejection periods (PEP) and electrodermal responses (EDR) during reward and extinction trials through the “Number Elimination Game” paradigm. Responses represented BAS and BIS, respectively. We then examined whether these responses provided incremental utility in the prediction of future alcohol, marijuana, and cigarette use. Results Zero-inflated Poisson (ZIP) regression models were used to examine the predictive utility of physiological BAS and BIS responses above and beyond previous substance use. Physiological responses accounted for incremental variance over previous use. Low BAS responses during reward predicted frequency of alcohol use at year 3. Low BAS responses during reward and extinction and high BIS responses during extinction predicted frequency of marijuana use at year 3. For cigarette use, low BAS response during extinction predicted use at year 3. Conclusions These findings suggest that the constructs of Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory, as assessed through physiology, contribute to the longitudinal maintenance of substance use. PMID:27306728

Development of a rapid method for the automatic classification of biological agents' fluorescence spectral signatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carestia, Mariachiara; Pizzoferrato, Roberto; Gelfusa, Michela; Cenciarelli, Orlando; Ludovici, Gian Marco; Gabriele, Jessica; Malizia, Andrea; Murari, Andrea; Vega, Jesus; Gaudio, Pasquale

2015-11-01

Biosecurity and biosafety are key concerns of modern society. Although nanomaterials are improving the capacities of point detectors, standoff detection still appears to be an open issue. Laser-induced fluorescence of biological agents (BAs) has proved to be one of the most promising optical techniques to achieve early standoff detection, but its strengths and weaknesses are still to be fully investigated. In particular, different BAs tend to have similar fluorescence spectra due to the ubiquity of biological endogenous fluorophores producing a signal in the UV range, making data analysis extremely challenging. The Universal Multi Event Locator (UMEL), a general method based on support vector regression, is commonly used to identify characteristic structures in arrays of data. In the first part of this work, we investigate fluorescence emission spectra of different simulants of BAs and apply UMEL for their automatic classification. In the second part of this work, we elaborate a strategy for the application of UMEL to the discrimination of different BAs' simulants spectra. Through this strategy, it has been possible to discriminate between these BAs' simulants despite the high similarity of their fluorescence spectra. These preliminary results support the use of SVR methods to classify BAs' spectral signatures.

Behavioral approach and avoidance in schizophrenia: an evaluation of motivational profiles.

PubMed

Felice Reddy, L; Green, Michael F; Rizzo, Shemra; Sugar, Catherine A; Blanchard, Jack J; Gur, Raquel E; Kring, Ann M; Horan, William P

2014-10-01

Schizophrenia is associated with motivational deficits that interfere with a wide range of goal directed activities. Despite their clinical importance, our current understanding of these motivational impairments is limited. Furthermore, different types of motivational problems are commonly seen among individuals within the broad diagnosis of schizophrenia. The goal of the current study was to examine whether clinically meaningful subgroups could be identified based on approach and avoidance motivational tendencies. We measured these tendencies in 151 individuals with schizophrenia. Although prior studies demonstrate elevated BIS sensitivity in schizophrenia at the overall group level, none have explored various combinations of BIS/BAS sensitivities within this disorder. Cluster analyses yielded five subgroups with different combinations of low, moderate, or high BIS and BAS. The subgroups had interpretable differences in clinically rated negative symptoms and self-reported anhedonia/socio-emotional attitudes, which were not detectable with the more commonly used linear BIS/BAS scores. Two of the subgroups had significantly elevated negative symptoms but different approach/avoidance profiles: one was characterized by markedly low BIS, low BAS and an overall lack of social approach motivation; the other had markedly high BIS but moderate BAS and elevated social avoidance motivation. The two subgroups with relatively good clinical functioning showed patterns of BAS greater than BIS. Our findings indicate that there are distinct motivational pathways that can lead to asociality in schizophrenia and highlight the value of considering profiles based on combined patterns of BIS and BAS in schizophrenia. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Biochemical and Structural Characterization of Bisubstrate Inhibitors of BasE, the Self-standing Non-Ribosomal Peptide Synthetase Adenylate-Forming Enzyme of Acinetobactin Synthesis†,‡

PubMed Central

Drake, Eric J.; Duckworth, Benjamin P.; Neres, João; Aldrich, Courtney C.; Gulick, Andrew M.

2010-01-01

The human pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii produces a siderophore called acinetobactin that is derived from one molecule each of threonine, histidine, and 2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHB). The activity of several non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) enzymes is used to combine the building blocks into the final molecule. The acinetobactin synthesis pathway initiates with a self-standing adenylation enzyme, BasE, that activates the DHB molecule and covalently transfers it to the pantetheine cofactor of an aryl-carrier protein of BasF, a strategy that is shared with many siderophore-producing NRPS clusters. In this reaction, DHB reacts with ATP to form the aryl adenylate and pyrophosphate. In a second partial reaction, the DHB is transferred to the carrier protein. Inhibitors of BasE and related enzymes have been identified that prevent growth of bacteria on iron-limiting media. Recently, a new inhibitor of BasE has been identified via high-throughput screening using a fluorescence polarization displacement assay. We present here biochemical and structural studies to examine the binding mode of this inhibitor. The kinetics of the wild-type BasE enzyme is shown and inhibition studies demonstrate that the new compound exhibits competitive inhibition against both ATP and 2,3-dihydroxybenzoate. Structural examination of BasE bound to this inhibitor illustrates a novel binding mode in which the phenyl moiety partially fills the enzyme pantetheine binding tunnel. Structures of rationally designed bisubstrate inhibitors are also presented. PMID:20853905

Defects in Gallbladder Emptying and Bile Acid Homeostasis in Mice With Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator Deficiencies

PubMed Central

Debray, Dominique; Rainteau, Dominique; Barbu, Véronique; Rouahi, Myriam; Mourabit, Haquima El; Lerondel, Stéphanie; Rey, Colette; Humbert, Lydie; Wendum, Dominique; Cottart, Charles-Henry; Dawson, Paul; Chignard, Nicolas; Housset, Chantal

2013-01-01

Background & Aims Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) have poorly defined defects in biliary function. We evaluated the effects of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) deficiency on the enterohepatic disposition of bile acids (BAs). Methods Bile secretion and BA homeostasis were investigated in Cftrtm1Unc (Cftr−/−) and CftrΔF508 (ΔF508) mice. Results Cftr−/− and ΔF508 mice did not grow to normal size, but did not have liver abnormalities. The gallbladders of Cftr−/− mice were enlarged and had defects in emptying, based on99mtechnetiummebrofenin scintigraphy or post-prandial variationsn gallbladder volume; gallbladder contraction in response to cholecystokinin-8 was normal. Cftr−/− mice had abnormal gallbladder bile and duodenal acidity, and overexpressed the vasoactive intestinal peptide—a myorelaxant factor for the gallbladder. The BA pool was larger in Cftr−/− than wild-type mice, although there were no differences in fecal loss of BAs. Amounts of secondary BAs in portal blood, liver, and bile of Cftr−/− mice were much lower than normal. Expression of genes that are induced by BAs, including fibroblast growth factor-15 and BA transporters, was lower in the ileum but higher in the gallbladders of Cftr−/− mice, compared with wild-type mice, whereas enzymes that synthesize BA were down-regulated in livers of Cftr−/− mice. This indicates that BAs underwent a cholecystohepatic shunt, which was confirmed using cholyl-(Ne-NBD)-lysine as a tracer. In Cftr−/− mice, cholecystectomy reversed most changes in gene expression and partially restored circulating levels of secondary BAs. The ΔF508 mice overexpressed vasoactive intestinal peptide and had defects in gallbladder emptying and in levels of secondary BAs, but these features were less severe than in Cftr−/− mice. Conclusions Cftr−/− and CftrΔF508 mice have defects in gallbladder emptying that disrupt enterohepatic circulation of BAs. These defects create a shunt pathway that restricts the amount of toxic secondary BAs that enter the liver. PMID:22370478

First-principles prediction of stabilities and instabilities of compounds and alloys in the ternary B-As-P system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ektarawong, A.; Simak, S. I.; Alling, B.

2017-07-01

We examine the thermodynamic stability of compounds and alloys in the ternary B-As-P system theoretically using first-principles calculations. We demonstrate that the icosahedral B12As2 is the only stable compound in the binary B-As system, while the zinc-blende BAs is thermodynamically unstable with respect to B12As2 and the pure arsenic phase at 0 K, and increasingly so at higher temperature, suggesting that BAs may merely exist as a metastable phase. On the contrary, in the binary B-P system, both zinc-blende BP and icosahedral B12P2 are predicted to be stable. As for the binary As-P system, As1 -xPx disordered alloys are predicted at elevated temperature—for example, a disordered solid solution of up to ˜75 at.% As in black phosphorus as well as a small solubility of ˜1 at.% P in gray arsenic at T =750 K, together with the presence of miscibility gaps. The calculated large solubility of As in black phosphorus explains the experimental syntheses of black-phosphorus-type As1 -xPx alloys with tunable compositions, recently reported in the literature. We investigate the phase stabilities in the ternary B-As-P system and demonstrate a high tendency for a formation of alloys in the icosahedral B12(As1 -xPx )2 structure by intermixing of As and P atoms at the diatomic chain sites. The phase diagram displays noticeable mutual solubility of the icosahedral subpnictides in each other even at room temperature as well as a closure of a pseudobinary miscibility gap around 900 K. As for pseudobinary BAs1 -xPx alloys, only a tiny amount of BAs is predicted to be able to dissolve in BP to form the BAs1 -xPx disordered alloys at elevated temperature. For example, less than 5% of BAs can dissolve in BP at T =1000 K. The small solubility limit of BAs in BP is attributed to the thermodynamic instability of BAs with respect to B12As2 and As.

Cerebral oximetry monitoring in the management of severe hypoxaemia associated with transposition of the great arteries with balloon atrial septostomy.

PubMed

Pérez Moreno, J C; Nájera Losada, D C; Sanabria Carretero, P; Paredes Lacave, Á; Benito Bartolomé, F

2018-05-01

Transposition of the great arteries (D-TGA) is one of the most common congenital heart diseases requiring neonatal surgical intervention. In the desperately ill neonate with TGA and the resultant hypoxaemia, acidemia, and congestive heart failure, improvement is often obtained with balloon atrial septostomy (BAS). Current methods employed to evaluate oxygen delivery and tissue consumption are frequently nonspecific. Near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) allows a continuous non-invasive measurement of tissue oxygenation which reflects perfusion status in real time. Because little is known about the direct effect of BAS on the neonatal brain and on cerebral oxygenation, we measured the effectiveness of BAS in two patients with D-TGA using NIRS before and after BAS. We concluded BAS improves cerebral oxygen saturation in neonates with D-TGA. Copyright © 2017 Sociedad Española de Anestesiología, Reanimación y Terapéutica del Dolor. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Reward sensitivity is associated with brain activity during erotic stimulus processing.

PubMed

Costumero, Victor; Barrós-Loscertales, Alfonso; Bustamante, Juan Carlos; Ventura-Campos, Noelia; Fuentes, Paola; Rosell-Negre, Patricia; Ávila, César

2013-01-01

The behavioral approach system (BAS) from Gray's reinforcement sensitivity theory is a neurobehavioral system involved in the processing of rewarding stimuli that has been related to dopaminergic brain areas. Gray's theory hypothesizes that the functioning of reward brain areas is modulated by BAS-related traits. To test this hypothesis, we performed an fMRI study where participants viewed erotic and neutral pictures, and cues that predicted their appearance. Forty-five heterosexual men completed the Sensitivity to Reward scale (from the Sensitivity to Punishment and Sensitivity to Reward Questionnaire) to measure BAS-related traits. Results showed that Sensitivity to Reward scores correlated positively with brain activity during reactivity to erotic pictures in the left orbitofrontal cortex, left insula, and right ventral striatum. These results demonstrated a relationship between the BAS and reward sensitivity during the processing of erotic stimuli, filling the gap of previous reports that identified the dopaminergic system as a neural substrate for the BAS during the processing of other rewarding stimuli such as money and food.

Reward Sensitivity Is Associated with Brain Activity during Erotic Stimulus Processing

PubMed Central

Costumero, Victor; Barrós-Loscertales, Alfonso; Bustamante, Juan Carlos; Ventura-Campos, Noelia; Fuentes, Paola; Rosell-Negre, Patricia; Ávila, César

2013-01-01

The behavioral approach system (BAS) from Gray’s reinforcement sensitivity theory is a neurobehavioral system involved in the processing of rewarding stimuli that has been related to dopaminergic brain areas. Gray’s theory hypothesizes that the functioning of reward brain areas is modulated by BAS-related traits. To test this hypothesis, we performed an fMRI study where participants viewed erotic and neutral pictures, and cues that predicted their appearance. Forty-five heterosexual men completed the Sensitivity to Reward scale (from the Sensitivity to Punishment and Sensitivity to Reward Questionnaire) to measure BAS-related traits. Results showed that Sensitivity to Reward scores correlated positively with brain activity during reactivity to erotic pictures in the left orbitofrontal cortex, left insula, and right ventral striatum. These results demonstrated a relationship between the BAS and reward sensitivity during the processing of erotic stimuli, filling the gap of previous reports that identified the dopaminergic system as a neural substrate for the BAS during the processing of other rewarding stimuli such as money and food. PMID:23840558

Ubiquitous Creation of Bas-Relief Surfaces with Depth-of-Field Effects Using Smartphones.

PubMed

Sohn, Bong-Soo

2017-03-11

This paper describes a new method to automatically generate digital bas-reliefs with depth-of-field effects from general scenes. Most previous methods for bas-relief generation take input in the form of 3D models. However, obtaining 3D models of real scenes or objects is often difficult, inaccurate, and time-consuming. From this motivation, we developed a method that takes as input a set of photographs that can be quickly and ubiquitously captured by ordinary smartphone cameras. A depth map is computed from the input photographs. The value range of the depth map is compressed and used as a base map representing the overall shape of the bas-relief. However, the resulting base map contains little information on details of the scene. Thus, we construct a detail map using pixel values of the input image to express the details. The base and detail maps are blended to generate a new depth map that reflects both overall depth and scene detail information. This map is selectively blurred to simulate the depth-of-field effects. The final depth map is converted to a bas-relief surface mesh. Experimental results show that our method generates a realistic bas-relief surface of general scenes with no expensive manual processing.

Ubiquitous Creation of Bas-Relief Surfaces with Depth-of-Field Effects Using Smartphones

PubMed Central

Sohn, Bong-Soo

2017-01-01

This paper describes a new method to automatically generate digital bas-reliefs with depth-of-field effects from general scenes. Most previous methods for bas-relief generation take input in the form of 3D models. However, obtaining 3D models of real scenes or objects is often difficult, inaccurate, and time-consuming. From this motivation, we developed a method that takes as input a set of photographs that can be quickly and ubiquitously captured by ordinary smartphone cameras. A depth map is computed from the input photographs. The value range of the depth map is compressed and used as a base map representing the overall shape of the bas-relief. However, the resulting base map contains little information on details of the scene. Thus, we construct a detail map using pixel values of the input image to express the details. The base and detail maps are blended to generate a new depth map that reflects both overall depth and scene detail information. This map is selectively blurred to simulate the depth-of-field effects. The final depth map is converted to a bas-relief surface mesh. Experimental results show that our method generates a realistic bas-relief surface of general scenes with no expensive manual processing. PMID:28287487

Factor structure and psychometric properties of a French and German shortened version of the Behavioural Inhibition System/Behavioural Activation System scales.

PubMed

Studer, Joseph; Baggio, Stéphanie; Mohler-Kuo, Meichun; Daeppen, Jean-Bernard; Gmel, Gerhard

2016-03-01

The Behavioural Inhibition System/Behavioural Activation System scales (BIS/BAS scales) constitute one of the most prominent questionnaires to assess individual differences in sensitivity to punishment and reward. However, some studies questioned its validity, especially that of the French and German translations. The aim of the present study was to re-evaluate the psychometric characteristics of the BIS/BAS scales in a large sample of French- and German-speaking young Swiss men (N = 5872). Results showed that factor structures previously found in the literature did not meet the standards of fit. Nine items had to be removed to achieve adequate fit statistics in confirmatory factor analysis, yielding a shortened version with four factors: one BIS factor comprising five items and three BAS factors, namely Reward Reactivity, Drive and Fun Seeking, each comprising two items. Convergent validity and group invariance analyses suggest that the shortened BIS/BAS scales constitute a valid and reliable instrument. Researchers interested in assessing individual differences in BIS and BAS reactivity in French- and German-speaking individuals should avoid using the BIS/BAS scales as originally specified. The shortened version may be a sound alternative at least in samples of young adults. Its shorter format may be particularly suited for surveys with constraints on questionnaire length.

Correlation between microbial flora, sensory changes and biogenic amines formation in fresh chicken meat stored aerobically or under modified atmosphere packaging at 4 degrees C: possible role of biogenic amines as spoilage indicators.

PubMed

Balamatsia, C C; Paleologos, E K; Kontominas, M G; Savvaidis, I N

2006-01-01

This study evaluated the formation of biogenic amines (BAs) in breast chicken meat during storage under aerobic and modified atmospheric packaging (MAP) conditions at 4 degrees C, the correlation of microbial and sensory changes in chicken meat with formation of BAs and the possible role of BAs as indicators of poultry meat spoilage. Poultry breast fillets were stored aerobically or under MAP (30%, CO(2), 70% N(2)) at 4 degrees C for up to 17 days. Quality evaluation was carried out using microbiological, chemical and sensory analyses. Total viable counts, Pseudomonads and Enterobacteriaceae, were in general higher for chicken samples packaged in air whereas lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and Enterobacteriaceae were among the dominant species for samples under MAP. Levels of putrescine and cadaverine increased linearly with storage time and were higher in aerobically stored chicken samples. Spermine and spermidine levels were also detected in both aerobically and MAP stored chicken meat. Levels of tyramine in both chicken samples stored aerobically and or under MAP were low (< 10 mg kg(-1)) whereas the formation of histamine was only observed after day 11 of storage when Enterobacteriaceae had reached a population of ca. 10(7) CFU g(-1). Based on sensory and microbiological analyses and also taking into account a biogenic amines index (BAI, sum of putrescine, cadaverine and tyramine), BAI values between 96 and 101 mg kg(-1) may be proposed as a quality index of MAP and aerobically-packaged fresh chicken meat. Spermine and spermidine decreased steadily throughout the entire storage period of chicken meat under aerobic and MAP packaging, and thus these two amines cannot be used as indicators of fresh chicken meat quality.

Personality Factors Predicting Smartphone Addiction Predisposition: Behavioral Inhibition and Activation Systems, Impulsivity, and Self-Control

PubMed Central

Cho, Hyun; Jung, Dong-Jin; Kwak, Minjung; Rho, Mi Jung; Yu, Hwanjo; Kim, Dai-Jin; Choi, In Young

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to identify personality factor-associated predictors of smartphone addiction predisposition (SAP). Participants were 2,573 men and 2,281 women (n = 4,854) aged 20–49 years (Mean ± SD: 33.47 ± 7.52); participants completed the following questionnaires: the Korean Smartphone Addiction Proneness Scale (K-SAPS) for adults, the Behavioral Inhibition System/Behavioral Activation System questionnaire (BIS/BAS), the Dickman Dysfunctional Impulsivity Instrument (DDII), and the Brief Self-Control Scale (BSCS). In addition, participants reported their demographic information and smartphone usage pattern (weekday or weekend average usage hours and main use). We analyzed the data in three steps: (1) identifying predictors with logistic regression, (2) deriving causal relationships between SAP and its predictors using a Bayesian belief network (BN), and (3) computing optimal cut-off points for the identified predictors using the Youden index. Identified predictors of SAP were as follows: gender (female), weekend average usage hours, and scores on BAS-Drive, BAS-Reward Responsiveness, DDII, and BSCS. Female gender and scores on BAS-Drive and BSCS directly increased SAP. BAS-Reward Responsiveness and DDII indirectly increased SAP. We found that SAP was defined with maximal sensitivity as follows: weekend average usage hours > 4.45, BAS-Drive > 10.0, BAS-Reward Responsiveness > 13.8, DDII > 4.5, and BSCS > 37.4. This study raises the possibility that personality factors contribute to SAP. And, we calculated cut-off points for key predictors. These findings may assist clinicians screening for SAP using cut-off points, and further the understanding of SA risk factors. PMID:27533112

Personality Factors Predicting Smartphone Addiction Predisposition: Behavioral Inhibition and Activation Systems, Impulsivity, and Self-Control.

PubMed

Kim, Yejin; Jeong, Jo-Eun; Cho, Hyun; Jung, Dong-Jin; Kwak, Minjung; Rho, Mi Jung; Yu, Hwanjo; Kim, Dai-Jin; Choi, In Young

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to identify personality factor-associated predictors of smartphone addiction predisposition (SAP). Participants were 2,573 men and 2,281 women (n = 4,854) aged 20-49 years (Mean ± SD: 33.47 ± 7.52); participants completed the following questionnaires: the Korean Smartphone Addiction Proneness Scale (K-SAPS) for adults, the Behavioral Inhibition System/Behavioral Activation System questionnaire (BIS/BAS), the Dickman Dysfunctional Impulsivity Instrument (DDII), and the Brief Self-Control Scale (BSCS). In addition, participants reported their demographic information and smartphone usage pattern (weekday or weekend average usage hours and main use). We analyzed the data in three steps: (1) identifying predictors with logistic regression, (2) deriving causal relationships between SAP and its predictors using a Bayesian belief network (BN), and (3) computing optimal cut-off points for the identified predictors using the Youden index. Identified predictors of SAP were as follows: gender (female), weekend average usage hours, and scores on BAS-Drive, BAS-Reward Responsiveness, DDII, and BSCS. Female gender and scores on BAS-Drive and BSCS directly increased SAP. BAS-Reward Responsiveness and DDII indirectly increased SAP. We found that SAP was defined with maximal sensitivity as follows: weekend average usage hours > 4.45, BAS-Drive > 10.0, BAS-Reward Responsiveness > 13.8, DDII > 4.5, and BSCS > 37.4. This study raises the possibility that personality factors contribute to SAP. And, we calculated cut-off points for key predictors. These findings may assist clinicians screening for SAP using cut-off points, and further the understanding of SA risk factors.

When Significant Others Suffer: German Validation of the Burden Assessment Scale (BAS)

PubMed Central

Hunger, Christina; Krause, Lena; Hilzinger, Rebecca; Ditzen, Beate; Schweitzer, Jochen

2016-01-01

There is a need of an economical, reliable, and valid instrument in the German-speaking countries to measure the burden of relatives who care for mentally ill persons. We translated the Burden Assessment Scale (BAS) and conducted a study investigating factor structure, psychometric quality and predictive validity. We used confirmative factor analyses (CFA, maximum-likelihood method) to examine the dimensionality of the German BAS in a sample of 215 relatives (72% women; M = 32 years, SD = 14, range: 18 to 77; 39% employed) of mentally ill persons (50% (ex-)partner or (best) friend; M = 32 years, SD = 13, range 8 to 64; main complaints were depression and/or anxiety). Cronbach’s α determined the internal consistency. We examined predictive validity using regression analyses including the BAS and validated scales of social systems functioning (Experience In Social Systems Questionnaire, EXIS.pers, EXIS.org) and psychopathology (Brief Symptom Inventory, BSI). Variables that might have influenced the dependent variables (e.g. age, gender, education, employment and civil status) were controlled by their introduction in the first step, and the BAS in the second step of the regression analyses. A model with four correlated factors (Disrupted Activities, Personal Distress, Time Perspective, Guilt) showed the best fit. With respect to the number of items included, the internal consistency was very good. The modified German BAS predicted relatives’ social systems functioning and psychopathology. The economical design makes the 19-item BAS promising for practice-oriented research, and for studies under time constraints. Strength, limitations and future directions are discussed. PMID:27764109

Reporter-free potentiometric sensing of boronic acids and their reactions by using quaternary ammonium salt-functionalized polymeric liquid membranes.

PubMed

Wang, Xuewei; Yue, Dengfeng; Lv, Enguang; Wu, Lei; Qin, Wei

2014-02-18

The tremendous applications of boronic acids (BAs) in chemical sensing, medical chemistry, molecular assembly, and organic synthesis lead to an urgent demand for developing effective sensing methods for BAs. This paper reports a facile and sensitive potentiometric sensor scheme for heterogeneous detection of BAs based on their unexpected potential responses on quaternary ammonium salt-doped polymeric liquid membranes. (11)B NMR data reveal that a quaternary ammonium chloride can trigger the hydrolysis of an electrically neutral BA in an aprotic solvent. Using the quaternary ammonium salt as the receptor, the BA molecules can be extracted from the sample solution into the polymeric membrane phase and undergo the concomitant hydrolysis. Such salt-triggered hydrolysis generates H(+) ions, which can be coejected into the aqueous phase with the counterions (e.g., Cl(-)) owing to their high hydrophilicities. The perturbation on the ionic partition at the sample-membrane interface changes the phase boundary potential and thus enables the potentiometric sensing of BAs. In contrast to other transduction methods for BAs, for which labeled or separate reporters are exclusively required, the present heterogeneous sensing scheme allows the direct detection of BAs without using any reporter molecules. This technique shows superior detection limits for BAs (e.g., 1.0 × 10(-6) M for phenylboronic acid) as compared to previously reported methods based on colorimetry, fluorimetry, and mass spectrometry. The proposed sensing strategy has also been successfully applied to potentiometric indication of the BA reactions with hydrogen peroxide and saccharides, which allows indirect and sensitive detection of these important species.

Activation of Constitutive Androstane Receptor (CAR) in Mice Results in Maintained Biliary Excretion of Bile Acids Despite a Marked Decrease of Bile Acids in Liver.

PubMed

Lickteig, Andrew J; Csanaky, Iván L; Pratt-Hyatt, Matthew; Klaassen, Curtis D

2016-06-01

Activation of Constitutive Androstane Receptor (CAR) protects against bile acid (BA)-induced liver injury. This study was performed to determine the effect of CAR activation on bile flow, BA profile, as well as expression of BA synthesis and transport genes. Synthetic CAR ligand 1,4-bis-[2-(3,5-dichloropyridyloxy)]benzene (TCPOBOP) was administered to mice for 4 days. BAs were quantified by UPLC-MS/MS (ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry). CAR activation decreases total BAs in livers of male (49%) and female mice (26%), largely attributable to decreases of the 12α-hydroxylated BA taurocholic acid (T-CA) (males (M) 65%, females (F) 45%). Bile flow in both sexes was increased by CAR activation, and the increases were BA-independent. CAR activation did not alter biliary excretion of total BAs, but overall BA composition changed. Excretion of muricholic (6-hydroxylated) BAs was increased in males (101%), and the 12α-OH proportion of biliary BAs was decreased in both males (37%) and females (28%). The decrease of T-CA in livers of males and females correlates with the decreased mRNA of the sterol 12α-hydroxylase Cyp8b1 in males (71%) and females (54%). As a response to restore BAs to physiologic concentrations in liver, mRNA of Cyp7a1 is upregulated following TCPOBOP (males 185%, females 132%). In ilea, mRNA of the negative feedback regulator Fgf15 was unaltered by CAR activation, indicating biliary BA excretion was sufficient to maintain concentrations of total BAs in the small intestine. In summary, the effects of CAR activation on BAs in male and female mice are quite similar, with a marked decrease in the major BA T-CA in the liver. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society of Toxicology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Activation of Constitutive Androstane Receptor (CAR) in Mice Results in Maintained Biliary Excretion of Bile Acids Despite a Marked Decrease of Bile Acids in Liver

PubMed Central

Lickteig, Andrew J.; Csanaky, Iván L.; Pratt-Hyatt, Matthew

2016-01-01

Activation of Constitutive Androstane Receptor (CAR) protects against bile acid (BA)-induced liver injury. This study was performed to determine the effect of CAR activation on bile flow, BA profile, as well as expression of BA synthesis and transport genes. Synthetic CAR ligand 1,4-bis-[2-(3,5-dichloropyridyloxy)]benzene (TCPOBOP) was administered to mice for 4 days. BAs were quantified by UPLC-MS/MS (ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry). CAR activation decreases total BAs in livers of male (49%) and female mice (26%), largely attributable to decreases of the 12α-hydroxylated BA taurocholic acid (T-CA) (males (M) 65%, females (F) 45%). Bile flow in both sexes was increased by CAR activation, and the increases were BA-independent. CAR activation did not alter biliary excretion of total BAs, but overall BA composition changed. Excretion of muricholic (6-hydroxylated) BAs was increased in males (101%), and the 12α-OH proportion of biliary BAs was decreased in both males (37%) and females (28%). The decrease of T-CA in livers of males and females correlates with the decreased mRNA of the sterol 12α-hydroxylase Cyp8b1 in males (71%) and females (54%). As a response to restore BAs to physiologic concentrations in liver, mRNA of Cyp7a1 is upregulated following TCPOBOP (males 185%, females 132%). In ilea, mRNA of the negative feedback regulator Fgf15 was unaltered by CAR activation, indicating biliary BA excretion was sufficient to maintain concentrations of total BAs in the small intestine. In summary, the effects of CAR activation on BAs in male and female mice are quite similar, with a marked decrease in the major BA T-CA in the liver. PMID:26984780

40 CFR 63.1258 - Monitoring Requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

...) National Emission Standards for Pharmaceuticals Production § 63.1258 Monitoring Requirements. (a) The owner... production and kg VOC consumption per kg production every month or every 10 batches. Each rolling average kg... hydrocarbon in air); and (B) Mixtures of methane in air at a concentration less than 10,000 parts per million...

40 CFR 65.117 - Alternative means of emission limitation: Batch processes.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) CONSOLIDATED FEDERAL AIR RULE Equipment Leaks § 65.117 Alternative means... section provide the options of pressure testing or monitoring the equipment for leaks. The owner or... pressure-tested for leaks before regulated material is first fed to the equipment and the equipment is...

Noncoplanar Beam Angle Class Solutions to Replace Time-Consuming Patient-Specific Beam Angle Optimization in Robotic Prostate Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy

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

Rossi, Linda, E-mail: l.rossi@erasmusmc.nl; Breedveld, Sebastiaan; Aluwini, Shafak

Purpose: To investigate development of a recipe for the creation of a beam angle class solution (CS) for noncoplanar prostate stereotactic body radiation therapy to replace time-consuming individualized beam angle selection (iBAS) without significant loss in plan quality, using the in-house “Erasmus-iCycle” optimizer for fully automated beam profile optimization and iBAS. Methods and Materials: For 30 patients, Erasmus-iCycle was first used to generate 15-, 20-, and 25-beam iBAS plans for a CyberKnife equipped with a multileaf collimator. With these plans, 6 recipes for creation of beam angle CSs were investigated. Plans of 10 patients were used to create CSs based on themore » recipes, and the other 20 to independently test them. For these tests, Erasmus-iCycle was also used to generate intensity modulated radiation therapy plans for the fixed CS beam setups. Results: Of the tested recipes for CS creation, only 1 resulted in 15-, 20-, and 25-beam noncoplanar CSs without plan deterioration compared with iBAS. For the patient group, mean differences in rectum D{sub 1cc}, V{sub 60GyEq}, V{sub 40GyEq}, and D{sub mean} between 25-beam CS plans and 25-beam plans generated with iBAS were 0.2 ± 0.4 Gy, 0.1% ± 0.2%, 0.2% ± 0.3%, and 0.1 ± 0.2 Gy, respectively. Differences between 15- and 20-beam CS and iBAS plans were also negligible. Plan quality for CS plans relative to iBAS plans was also preserved when narrower planning target volume margins were arranged and when planning target volume dose inhomogeneity was decreased. Using a CS instead of iBAS reduced the computation time by a factor of 14 to 25, mainly depending on beam number, without loss in plan quality. Conclusions: A recipe for creation of robust beam angle CSs for robotic prostate stereotactic body radiation therapy has been developed. Compared with iBAS, computation times decreased by a factor 14 to 25. The use of a CS may avoid long planning times without losses in plan quality.« less

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

Fu, Zidong Donna; Klaassen, Curtis D., E-mail: cklaasse@kumc.edu

Previous studies showed glucose and insulin signaling can regulate bile acid (BA) metabolism during fasting or feeding. However, limited knowledge is available on the effect of calorie restriction (CR), a well-known anti-aging intervention, on BA homeostasis. To address this, the present study utilized a “dose–response” model of CR, where male C57BL/6 mice were fed 0, 15, 30, or 40% CR diets for one month, followed by BA profiling in various compartments of the enterohepatic circulation by UPLC-MS/MS technique. This study showed that 40% CR increased the BA pool size (162%) as well as total BAs in serum, gallbladder, and smallmore » intestinal contents. In addition, CR “dose-dependently” increased the concentrations of tauro-cholic acid (TCA) and many secondary BAs (produced by intestinal bacteria) in serum, such as tauro-deoxycholic acid (TDCA), DCA, lithocholic acid, ω-muricholic acid (ωMCA), and hyodeoxycholic acid. Notably, 40% CR increased TDCA by over 1000% (serum, liver, and gallbladder). Interestingly, 40% CR increased the proportion of 12α-hydroxylated BAs (CA and DCA), which correlated with improved glucose tolerance and lipid parameters. The CR-induced increase in BAs correlated with increased expression of BA-synthetic (Cyp7a1) and conjugating enzymes (BAL), and the ileal BA-binding protein (Ibabp). These results suggest that CR increases BAs in male mice possibly through orchestrated increases in BA synthesis and conjugation in liver as well as intracellular transport in ileum. - Highlights: • Dose response effects of short-term CR on BA homeostasis in male mice. • CR increased the BA pool size and many individual BAs. • CR altered BA composition (increased proportion of 12α-hydroxylated BAs). • Increased mRNAs of BA enzymes in liver (Cyp7a1 and BAL) and ileal BA binding protein.« less

Multistatic Array Sampling Scheme for Fast Near-Field Image Reconstruction

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-01-01

reconstruction. The array topology samples the scene on a regular grid of phase centers, using a tiling of Boundary Arrays (BAs). Following a simple correction...hardware. Fig. 1 depicts the multistatic array topology. As seen, the topology is a tiled arrangement of Boundary Arrays (BAs). The BA is a well-known...sparse array layout comprised of two linear transmit arrays, and two linear receive arrays [6]. A slightly different tiled arrangement of BAs was used

Design of BAs-AlN monolayered honeycomb heterojunction structures: A first-principles study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Camacho-Mojica, Dulce C.; López-Urías, Florentino

2016-04-01

BAs and AlN are semiconductor materials with an indirect and direct gap respectively in the bulk phase. Recently, electronic calculations have demonstrated that a single-layer or few layers of BAs and AlN exhibit a graphite-like structure with interesting electronic properties. In this work, infinite sheets single-layer heterojunction structures based on alternated strips with honeycomb BAs and AlN layers are investigated using first-principles density functional theory calculations. Optimized geometries, density of states, band-gaps, formation energies, and wave functions are studied for different strip widths joined along zigzag and armchair edges. Results in optimized heterojunction geometries revealed that BAs narrow strips exhibit a corrugation effect due to a lattice mismatch. It was found that zigzag heterojunctions are more energetically favored than armchair heterojunctions. Furthermore, the formation energy presents a maximum at the point where the heterojunction becomes a planar structure. Electronic charge density results yielded a more ionic behavior in Alsbnd N bonds than the Bsbnd As bonds in accordance with monolayer results. It was observed that the conduction band minimum for both heterojunctions exhibit confined states located mainly at the entire AlN strips whereas the valence band maximum exhibits confined states located mainly at BAs strips. We expect that the present investigation will motivate more experimental and theoretical studies on new layered materials made of III-V semiconductors.

A tale of two diatheses: Temperament, BIS, and BAS as risk factors for mood disorder.

PubMed

Van Meter, Anna R; Youngstrom, Eric A

2015-07-15

Learning more about how biological traits, like temperament and sensitivity in the behavioral inhibition (BIS) and behavioral activation (BAS) systems, relate to mood pathology is consistent with the Research Domain Criteria initiative׳s goal of investigating mechanisms of risk. Korean young adults (n=128) and American young adults (n=630, of whom 23 has recent treatment for bipolar disorder, and 21for depression) completed self-report questionnaires, including the TEMPS-A, the BIS/BAS scales, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Hypomanic Checklist (HCL-32). Linear regression quantified relations between mood symptoms, sample characteristics, temperament, and BIS/BAS. Temperament styles explained 49% of the variance in BDI scores. BIS explained an additional 1% of the variance in BDI scores. BAS Fun and Reward (p<.01), in addition to cyclothymic and hyperthymic temperaments (p<.001) explained 21% of the variance in HCL-32 scores. Sample characteristics were not significant predictors in the full model. Differences in sample size, the cross-sectional study design, and lack of collateral report or behavioral measures of constructs are limitations. Affective temperament and BIS/BAS are complementary but distinct constructs. Affective temperament, particularly cyclothymic, may represent a stronger diathesis for mood pathology, and seems potent irrespective of culture or diagnosis. Assessing temperament may help overcome some challenges in diagnosing mood disorders. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Eversion Technique to Prevent Biliary Stricture After Living Donor Liver Transplantation in the Universal Minimal Hilar Dissection Era.

PubMed

Ikegami, Toru; Shimagaki, Tomonari; Kawasaki, Junji; Yoshizumi, Tomoharu; Uchiyama, Hideaki; Harada, Noboru; Harimoto, Norifumi; Itoh, Shinji; Soejima, Yuji; Maehara, Yoshihiko

2017-01-01

Biliary anastomosis stricture (BAS) is still among the major concerns after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT), even after the technical refinements including the universal use of the blood flow-preserving hilar dissection technique. The aim of this study is to investigate what are still the factors for BAS after LDLT. An analysis of 279 adult-to-adult LDLT grafts (left lobe, n = 161; right lobe, n = 118) with duct-to-duct biliary reconstruction, since the universal application of minimal hilar dissection technique and gradual introduction of eversion technique, was performed. There were 39 patients with BAS. Univariate analysis showed that a right lobe graft (P = 0.008), multiple bile ducts (P < 0.001), ductoplasty (P < 0.001), not using the eversion technique (P = 0.004) and fewer biliary stents than bile duct orifices (P = 0.002) were among the factors associated with BAS. The 1-year and 5-year BAS survival rates were 17.7% and 21.2% in the noneversion group (n = 134), and 6.2% and 7.9% in the eversion group (n = 145), respectively (P = 0.002). The perioperative factors including graft biliary anatomy were not different between everted (n = 134) and noneverted (n = 145) patients. The application of eversion technique under minimal hilar dissection technique could be a key for preventing BAS in duct-to-duct biliary reconstruction in LDLT.

Competition in the Brain. The Contribution of EEG and fNIRS Modulation and Personality Effects in Social Ranking.

PubMed

Balconi, Michela; Vanutelli, Maria E

2016-01-01

In the present study, the social ranking perception in competition was explored. Brain response (alpha band oscillations, EEG; hemodynamic activity, O2Hb), as well as self-perception of social ranking, cognitive performance, and personality trait (Behavioral Activation System, BAS) were considered during a competitive joint-action. Subjects were required to develop a strategy to obtain a better outcome than a competitor (C) (in term of error rate, and response time, RT). A pre-feedback (without a specific feedback on the performance) and a post-feedback condition (which reinforced the improved performance) were provided. It was found that higher-BAS participants responded in greater measure to perceived higher cognitive performance (post-feedback condition), with increased left prefrontal activity, higher ranking perception, and a better real performance (reduced RTs). These results were explained in term of increased sense of self-efficacy and social position, probably based on higher-BAS sensitivity to reinforcing conditions. In addition, the hemispheric effect in favor of the left side characterized the competitive behavior, showing an imbalance for high-BAS in comparison to low-BAS in the case of a rewarding (post-feedback) context. Therefore, the present results confirmed the significance of BAS in modulating brain responsiveness, self-perceived social position, and real performance during an interpersonal competitive action which is considered highly relevant for social status.

Impact of broiler processing scalding and chilling profiles on carcass and breast meat yield.

PubMed

Buhr, R J; Walker, J M; Bourassa, D V; Caudill, A B; Kiepper, B H; Zhuang, H

2014-06-01

The effect of scalding and chilling procedures was evaluated on carcass and breast meat weight and yield in broilers. On 4 separate weeks (trials), broilers were subjected to feed withdrawal, weighed, and then stunned and bled in 4 sequential batches (n = 16 broilers/batch, 64 broilers/trial). In addition, breast skin was collected before scalding, after scalding, and after defeathering for proximate analysis. Each batch of 16 carcasses was subjected to either hard (60.0°C for 1.5 min) or soft (52.8°C for 3 min) immersion scalding. Following defeathering and evisceration, 8 carcasses/batch were air-chilled (0.5°C, 120 min, 86% RH) and 8 carcasses/batch were immersion water-chilled (water and ice 0.5°C, 40 min). Carcasses were reweighed individually following evisceration and following chilling. Breast meat was removed from the carcass and weighed within 4 h postmortem. There were significant (P < 0.05) differences among the trials for all weights and yields; however, postfeed withdrawal shackle weight and postscald-defeathered eviscerated weights did not differ between the scalding and chilling treatments. During air-chilling all carcasses lost weight, resulting in postchill carcass yield of 73.0% for soft-scalded and 71.3% for hard-scalded carcasses, a difference of 1.7%. During water-chilling all carcasses gained weight, resulting in heavier postchill carcass weights (2,031 g) than for air-chilled carcasses (1,899 g). Postchill carcass yields were correspondingly higher for water-chilled carcasses, 78.2% for soft-scalded and 76.1% for hard-scalded carcasses, a difference of 2.1%. Only in trials 1 and 4 was breast meat yield significantly lower for hard-scalded, air-chilled carcasses (16.1 and 17.5%) than the other treatments. Proximate analysis of skin sampled after scalding or defeathering did not differ significantly in moisture (P = 0.2530) or lipid (P = 0.6412) content compared with skin sampled before scalding. Skin protein content was significantly higher (P < 0.05) for prescald and soft-scalded skin samples than for hard-scalded or soft or hard-scalded skin samples after defeathering. The hard-scalding method used in this experiment did not result in increased skin lipid loss either before or after defeathering. Poultry Science Association Inc.

Ab initio study of the effect of vacancies on the thermal conductivity of boron arsenide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Protik, Nakib Haider; Carrete, Jesús; Katcho, Nebil A.; Mingo, Natalio; Broido, David

2016-07-01

Using a first principles theoretical approach, we show that vacancies give anomalously strong suppression of the lattice thermal conductivity κ of cubic Boron arsenide (BAs), which has recently been predicted to have an exceptionally high κ . This effect is tied to the unusually large phonon lifetimes in BAs and results in a stronger reduction in the BAs κ than occurs in diamond. The large changes in bonding around vacancies cannot be accurately captured using standard perturbative methods and are instead treated here using an ab initio Green function approach. As and B vacancies are found to have similar effects on κ . In contrast, we show that commonly used mass disorder models for vacancies fail for large mass ratio compounds such as BAs, incorrectly predicting much stronger (weaker) phonon scattering when the vacancy is on the heavy (light) atom site. The quantitative treatment given here contributes to fundamental understanding of the effect of point defects on thermal transport in solids and provides guidance to synthesis efforts to grow high quality BAs.

Determination of biogenic amine profiles in conventional and organic cocoa-based products.

PubMed

Restuccia, Donatella; Spizzirri, U Gianfranco; Puoci, Francesco; Picci, Nevio

2015-01-01

Cocoa contains many compounds such as biogenic amines (BAs), known to influence consumer health. Spermidine, spermidine, putrescine, histamine, tyramine, β-phenylethylamine, cadaverine and serotonine have been found in several cocoa-based products using HPLC with UV detection after derivatisation with dansyl-chloride. Once optimised in terms of linearity, percentage recovery, LOD, LOQ and repeatability, this method was applied to real samples. Total concentrations of BAs ranged from 5.7 to 79.0 µg g(-)(1) with wide variations depending on the type of sample. BAs present in all samples were in decreasing order: histamine (1.9-38.1 µg g(-)(1)) and tyramine (1.7-31.7 µg g(-)(1)), while putrescine (0.9-32.7 µg g(-)(1)), spermidine (1.0-9.7 µg g(-)(1)) and spermidine (0.6-9.3 µg g(-)(1)) were present in most of the samples. Cadaverine, serotonine and β-phenylethylamine were present in a few samples at much lower concentrations. Organic samples always contained much lower levels of BAs than their conventional counterparts and, generally speaking, the highest amounts of BAs were found in the most processed products.

Emotional effects of startling background music during reading news reports: The moderating influence of dispositional BIS and BAS sensitivities.

PubMed

Ravaja, Niklas; Kallinen, Kari

2004-07-01

We examined the moderating influence of dispositional behavioral inhibition system (BIS) and behavioral activation system (BAS) sensitivities on the relationship of startling background music with emotion-related subjective and physiological responses elicited during reading news reports, and with memory performance among 26 adult men and women. Physiological parameters measured were respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), electrodermal activity (EDA), and facial electromyography (EMG). The results showed that, among high BAS individuals, news stories with startling background music were rated as more interesting and elicited higher zygomatic EMG activity and RSA than news stories with non-startling music. Among low BAS individuals, news stories with startling background music were rated as less pleasant and more arousing and prompted higher EDA. No BIS-related effects or effects on memory were found. Startling background music may have adverse (e.g., negative arousal) or beneficial effects (e.g., a positive emotional state and stronger positive engagement) depending on dispositional BAS sensitivity of an individual. Actual or potential applications of this research include the personalization of media presentations when using modern media and communications technologies.

Bas-relief generation using adaptive histogram equalization.

PubMed

Sun, Xianfang; Rosin, Paul L; Martin, Ralph R; Langbein, Frank C

2009-01-01

An algorithm is presented to automatically generate bas-reliefs based on adaptive histogram equalization (AHE), starting from an input height field. A mesh model may alternatively be provided, in which case a height field is first created via orthogonal or perspective projection. The height field is regularly gridded and treated as an image, enabling a modified AHE method to be used to generate a bas-relief with a user-chosen height range. We modify the original image-contrast-enhancement AHE method to use gradient weights also to enhance the shape features of the bas-relief. To effectively compress the height field, we limit the height-dependent scaling factors used to compute relative height variations in the output from height variations in the input; this prevents any height differences from having too great effect. Results of AHE over different neighborhood sizes are averaged to preserve information at different scales in the resulting bas-relief. Compared to previous approaches, the proposed algorithm is simple and yet largely preserves original shape features. Experiments show that our results are, in general, comparable to and in some cases better than the best previously published methods.

Biogenic Amines in Raw and Processed Seafood

PubMed Central

Visciano, Pierina; Schirone, Maria; Tofalo, Rosanna; Suzzi, Giovanna

2012-01-01

The presence of biogenic amines (BAs) in raw and processed seafood, associated with either time/temperature conditions or food technologies is discussed in the present paper from a safety and prevention point of view. In particular, storage temperature, handling practices, presence of microbial populations with decarboxylase activity and availability of free amino acids are considered the most important factors affecting the production of BAs in raw seafood. On the other hand, some food technological treatments such as salting, ripening, fermentation, or marination can increase the levels of BAs in processed seafood. The consumption of high amount of BAs, above all histamine, can result in food borne poisoning which is a worldwide problem. The European Regulation established as maximum limits for histamine, in fishery products from fish species associated with high histidine amounts, values ranging from 100 to 200 mg/kg, while for products which have undergone enzyme maturation treatment in brine, the aforementioned limits rise to 200 and 400 mg/kg. Preventive measures and emerging methods aiming at controlling the production of BAs are also reported for potential application in seafood industries. PMID:22675321

Reward sensitivity, decisional bias, and metacognitive deficits in cocaine drug addiction.

PubMed

Balconi, Michela; Finocchiaro, Roberta; Campanella, Salvatore

2014-01-01

The present research explored the effect of reward sensitivity bias and metacognitive deficits on substance use disorder (SUD) in the decision-making process. The behavioral activation system (BAS) was used as a predictive marker of dysfunctional behavior during the Iowa gambling task (IGT). We also tried to relate this motivational system bias to self-reported metacognitive measures (self-knowledge, strategic planning, flexibility, and efficacy) in the decision processes. Thirty-four SUD participants (cocaine dependent) and 39 participants in the control group underwent the IGT. The SUD group was associated with a poorer performance on the IGT and a dysfunctional metacognition ability (unrealistic representation). An increase in the reward sensitivity (higher BAS, BAS reward responsiveness, and BAS reward) was observed in the SUD group compared with the control group and explained (through a regression analysis) the main behavioral deficits. More generally, an increase in the BAS reward responsiveness may be considered a predictive measure of risk-taking and dysfunctional behavior, not only in pathological (SUD) individuals, but also in subclinical individuals (controls). We discuss the likely cognitive, brain, and neurotransmitter contributions to this phenomenon.

Individual bile acids have differential effects on bile acid signaling in mice

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

Song, Peizhen, E-mail: songacad@gmail.com; Rockwell, Cheryl E., E-mail: rockwelc@msu.edu; Cui, Julia Yue, E-mail: juliacui@uw.edu

2015-02-15

Bile acids (BAs) are known to regulate BA synthesis and transport by the farnesoid X receptor in the liver (FXR-SHP) and intestine (FXR-Fgf15). However, the relative importance of individual BAs in regulating these processes is not known. Therefore, mice were fed various doses of five individual BAs, including cholic acid (CA), chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA), deoxoycholic acid (DCA), lithocholic acid (LCA), and ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) in their diets at various concentrations for one week to increase the concentration of one BA in the enterohepatic circulation. The mRNA of BA synthesis and transporting genes in liver and ileum were quantified. In themore » liver, the mRNA of SHP, which is the prototypical target gene of FXR, increased in mice fed all concentrations of BAs. In the ileum, the mRNA of the intestinal FXR target gene Fgf15 was increased at lower doses and to a higher extent by CA and DCA than by CDCA and LCA. Cyp7a1, the rate-limiting enzyme in BA synthesis, was decreased more by CA and DCA than CDCA and LCA. Cyp8b1, the enzyme that 12-hydroxylates BAs and is thus responsible for the synthesis of CA, was decreased much more by CA and DCA than CDCA and LCA. Surprisingly, neither a decrease in the conjugated BA uptake transporter (Ntcp) nor increase in BA efflux transporter (Bsep) was observed by FXR activation, but an increase in the cholesterol efflux transporter (Abcg5/Abcg8) was observed with FXR activation. Thus in conclusion, CA and DCA are more potent FXR activators than CDCA and LCA when fed to mice, and thus they are more effective in decreasing the expression of the rate limiting gene in BA synthesis Cyp7a1 and the 12-hydroxylation of BAs Cyp8b1, and are also more effective in increasing the expression of Abcg5/Abcg8, which is responsible for biliary cholesterol excretion. However, feeding BAs do not alter the mRNA or protein levels of Ntcp or Bsep, suggesting that the uptake or efflux of BAs is not regulated by FXR at physiological and pharmacological concentrations of BAs. - Highlights: • All four major bile acids in humans activate the FXR in liver and intestine. • These bile acids decreased the mRNA of the bile acid synthetic enzymes Cyp7a1 and Cyp8b1. • These BAs did not alter the mRNA or protein of the conjugated BA transporters (Ntcp and Bsep). • Cholic acid and deoxycholic acid are more potent activators of FXR than chenodeoxycholic acid and lithocholic acid.« less

Anolyte recirculation effects in buffered and unbuffered single-chamber air-cathode microbial fuel cells.

PubMed

Zhang, Liang; Zhu, Xun; Kashima, Hiroyuki; Li, Jun; Ye, Ding-Ding; Liao, Qiang; Regan, John M

2015-03-01

Two identical microbial fuel cells (MFCs) with a floating air-cathode were operated under either buffered (MFC-B) or bufferless (MFC-BL) conditions to investigate anolyte recirculation effects on enhancing proton transfer. With an external resistance of 50 Ω and recirculation rate of 1.0 ml/min, MFC-BL had a 27% lower voltage (9.7% lower maximal power density) but a 64% higher Coulombic efficiency (CE) than MFC-B. MFC-B had a decreased voltage output, batch time, and CE with increasing recirculation rate resulting from more oxygen transfer into the anode. However, increasing the recirculation rate within a low range significantly enhanced proton transfer in MFC-BL, resulting in a higher voltage output, a longer batch time, and a higher CE. A further increase in recirculation rate decreased the batch time and CE of MFC-BL due to excess oxygen transfer into anode outweighing the proton-transfer benefits. The unbuffered MFC had an optimal recirculation rate of 0.35 ml/min. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Concept Development and Analysis of the Environmental Control, Chemical Protection, and Power Generation Systems for the Battalion Aid Station and Division Clearing Station

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-03-31

requirements necessary to optimize BAS/DCS operation in worst case environments . 4) Identify the qualitative and quantitative values of equipment which... Defibrillator 2.3 2.3 265 1.0 265 2 Sink unit, surgici1 17.0 34.0 3910 0.1 390 1 Resuscitator - inhaler 0.9 0.9 104 0.5 52 2 Sterilizer, surgical 10.1...transferred, the driving force for transfer is the difference in dry bulb temperatures. During heat transfer between unsaturated air and a wetted

Final Environmental Assessment for Republic of Singapore Air Force F-15SG Beddown at Mountain Home AFB

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-03-01

aide from the government for each child of a US military family that attends school off base. In 2005, MHSD received $3,893 in impact aid for each...Oltl bas~ l>cfl>re. ~ porn .W.:V miCtar,, lodlng-dge doarlne,- tmlt\\ II’OCUrct!!Ct’l CleOs!cm 1\\a.o made -.n 1n OOI .. ult’a bravado concerning...included in the ADA (Average Daily Attendance) and reimbursed by the State ofldaho. Ifthe "Educating Today’s Students for Tomorrow’s World" child is not in

40 CFR 63.11148 - What are the standards and compliance requirements for existing sources using batch copper...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... acid plant prior to discharge to the atmosphere. (iv) For each secondary capture system that is used to... practicable, maintain and operate any affected source, including associated air pollution control equipment, in a manner consistent with good air pollution control practice for minimizing emissions...

40 CFR 63.11148 - What are the standards and compliance requirements for existing sources using batch copper...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... acid plant prior to discharge to the atmosphere. (iv) For each secondary capture system that is used to... practicable, maintain and operate any affected source, including associated air pollution control equipment, in a manner consistent with good air pollution control practice for minimizing emissions...

40 CFR 63.11148 - What are the standards and compliance requirements for existing sources using batch copper...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... acid plant prior to discharge to the atmosphere. (iv) For each secondary capture system that is used to... practicable, maintain and operate any affected source, including associated air pollution control equipment, in a manner consistent with good air pollution control practice for minimizing emissions...

40 CFR 63.11148 - What are the standards and compliance requirements for existing sources using batch copper...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... acid plant prior to discharge to the atmosphere. (iv) For each secondary capture system that is used to... practicable, maintain and operate any affected source, including associated air pollution control equipment, in a manner consistent with good air pollution control practice for minimizing emissions...

40 CFR 63.11148 - What are the standards and compliance requirements for existing sources using batch copper...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... acid plant prior to discharge to the atmosphere. (iv) For each secondary capture system that is used to... practicable, maintain and operate any affected source, including associated air pollution control equipment, in a manner consistent with good air pollution control practice for minimizing emissions...

Effects of process parameters on solid self-microemulsifying particles in a laboratory scale fluid bed.

PubMed

Mukherjee, Tusharmouli; Plakogiannis, Fotios M

2012-01-01

The purpose of this study was to select the critical process parameters of the fluid bed processes impacting the quality attribute of a solid self-microemulsifying (SME) system of albendazole (ABZ). A fractional factorial design (2(4-1)) with four parameters (spray rate, inlet air temperature, inlet air flow, and atomization air pressure) was created by MINITAB software. Batches were manufactured in a laboratory top-spray fluid bed at 625-g scale. Loss on drying (LOD) samples were taken throughout each batch to build the entire moisture profiles. All dried granulation were sieved using mesh 20 and analyzed for particle size distribution (PSD), morphology, density, and flow. It was found that as spray rate increased, sauter-mean diameter (D(s)) also increased. The effect of inlet air temperature on the peak moisture which is directly related to the mean particle size was found to be significant. There were two-way interactions between studied process parameters. The main effects of inlet air flow rate and atomization air pressure could not be found as the data were inconclusive. The partial least square (PLS) regression model was found significant (P < 0.01) and predictive for optimization. This study established a design space for the parameters for solid SME manufacturing process.

Trait behavioral approach sensitivity (BAS) relates to early (<150 ms) electrocortical responses to appetitive stimuli.

PubMed

Gable, Philip A; Harmon-Jones, Eddie

2013-10-01

Much past research has focused on how traits related to the behavioral inhibition system (BIS) and avoidance motivation influence the almost obligatory attentional processing of aversive stimuli as measured as early as 100 ms into stimulus processing. These results fit with the functional importance assigned to the negativity bias. But do traits related to the behavioral approach system (BAS) influence attentional processing with similar rapidity? The present study addressed this unanswered question by testing whether trait BAS relates to event-related potentials (ERP) involved in rapid motivated attentional processing to appetitive stimuli. Results indicated that individual differences in BAS were correlated with larger ERP amplitudes as early as 100 ms into the processing of appetitive pictures. These results provide the first evidence linking trait approach motivational tendencies to very early stages of motivated attentional processing.

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

Peffer, Therese; Blumstein, Carl; Culler, David

The Project uses state-of-the-art computer science to extend the benefits of Building Automation Systems (BAS) typically found in large buildings (>100,000 square foot) to medium-sized commercial buildings (<50,000 sq ft). The BAS developed in this project, termed OpenBAS, uses an open-source and open software architecture platform, user interface, and plug-and-play control devices to facilitate adoption of energy efficiency strategies in the commercial building sector throughout the United States. At the heart of this “turn key” BAS is the platform with three types of controllers—thermostat, lighting controller, and general controller—that are easily “discovered” by the platform in a plug-and-play fashion. Themore » user interface showcases the platform and provides the control system set-up, system status display and means of automatically mapping the control points in the system.« less

Individual differences in decision making: Drive and Reward Responsiveness affect strategic bargaining in economic games.

PubMed

Scheres, Anouk; Sanfey, Alan G

2006-10-18

In the growing body of literature on economic decision making, the main focus has typically been on explaining aggregate behavior, with little interest in individual differences despite considerable between-subject variability in decision responses. In this study, we were interested in asking to what degree individual differences in fundamental psychological processes can mediate economic decision-making behavior. Specifically, we studied a personality dimension that may influence economic decision-making, the Behavioral Activation System, (BAS) which is composed of three components: Reward Responsiveness, Drive, and Fun Seeking. In order to assess economic decision making, we utilized two commonly-used tasks, the Ultimatum Game and Dictator Game. Individual differences in BAS were measured by completion of the BIS/BAS Scales, and correlations between the BAS scales and monetary offers made in the two tasks were computed. We found that higher scores on BAS Drive and on BAS Reward Responsiveness were associated with a pattern of higher offers on the Ultimatum Game, lower offers on the Dictator Game, and a correspondingly larger discrepancy between Ultimatum Game and Dictator Game offers. These findings are consistent with an interpretation that high scores on Drive and Reward Responsiveness are associated with a strategy that first seeks to maximize the likelihood of reward, and then to maximize the amount of reward. More generally, these results suggest that there are additional factors other than empathy, fairness and selfishness that contribute to strategic decision-making.

Extraction Efficiency of Different Solvents and LC-UV Determination of Biogenic Amines in Tea Leaves and Infusions

PubMed Central

Spizzirri, U. Gianfranco; Picci, Nevio

2016-01-01

Biogenic amines (BAs), that is, spermine, spermidine, putrescine, histamine, tyramine, β-phenylethylamine, cadaverine, and serotonin, have been determined in several samples of tea leaves, tea infusions, and tea drinks by LC-UV method after derivatization with dansyl chloride. Different extraction solvents have been tested and TCA 5% showed better analytical performances in terms of linearity, recovery percentages, LOD, LOQ, and repeatability than HCl 0.1 M and HClO4 0.1 M and was finally exploited for the quantitative determination of BAs in all samples. In tea leaves total BAs concentration ranged from 2.23 μg g−1 to 11.24 μg g−1 and PUT (1.05–2.25 μg g−1) and SPD (1.01–1.95 μg g−1) were always present, while SER (nd–1.56 μg g−1), HIS (nd–2.44 μg g−1), and SPM (nd–1.64 μg g−1) were detected more rarely. CAD and PHE were determined in few samples at much lower concentrations while none of the samples contained TYR. Tea infusions showed the same trend with total BAs concentrations never exceeding 80.7 μg L−1. Black teas showed higher amounts of BAs than green teas and organic and decaffeinated samples always contained much lower BAs levels than their conventional counterparts. PMID:27555979

The mechanism of enterohepatic circulation in the formation of gallstone disease.

PubMed

Cai, Jian-Shan; Chen, Jin-Hong

2014-11-01

Bile acids entering into enterohepatic circulating are primary acids synthesized from cholesterol in hepatocyte. They are secreted actively across canalicular membrane and carried in bile to gallbladder, where they are concentrated during digestion. About 95% BAs are actively taken up from the lumen of terminal ileum efficiently, leaving only approximately 5% (or approximately 0.5 g/d) in colon, and a fraction of bile acids are passively reabsorbed after a series of modifications in the human large intestine including deconjugation and oxidation of hydroxy groups. Bile salts hydrolysis and hydroxy group dehydrogenation reactions are performed by a broad spectrum of intestinal anaerobic bacteria. Next, hepatocyte reabsorbs bile acids from sinusoidal blood, which are carried to liver through portal vein via a series of transporters. Bile acids (BAs) transporters are critical for maintenance of the enterohepatic BAs circulation, where BAs exert their multiple physiological functions including stimulation of bile flow, intestinal absorption of lipophilic nutrients, solubilization, and excretion of cholesterol. Tight regulation of BA transporters via nuclear receptors (NRs) is necessary to maintain proper BA homeostasis. In conclusion, disturbances of enterohepatic circulation may account for pathogenesis of gallstones diseases, including BAs transporters and their regulatory NRs and the metabolism of intestinal bacterias, etc.

Maximizing Your Investment in Building Automation System Technology.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Darnell, Charles

2001-01-01

Discusses how organizational issues and system standardization can be important factors that determine an institution's ability to fully exploit contemporary building automation systems (BAS). Further presented is management strategy for maximizing BAS investments. (GR)

Application of two component biodegradable carriers in a particle-fixed biofilm airlift suspension reactor: development and structure of biofilms.

PubMed

Hille, Andrea; He, Mei; Ochmann, Clemens; Neu, Thomas R; Horn, Harald

2009-01-01

Two component biodegradable carriers for biofilm airlift suspension (BAS) reactors were investigated with respect to development of biofilm structure and oxygen transport inside the biofilm. The carriers were composed of PHB (polyhydroxybutyrate), which is easily degradable and PCL (caprolactone), which is less easily degradable by heterotrophic microorganisms. Cryosectioning combined with classical light microscopy and CLSM was used to identify the surface structure of the carrier material over a period of 250 days of biofilm cultivation in an airlift reactor. Pores of 50 to several hundred micrometers depth are formed due to the preferred degradation of PHB. Furthermore, microelectrode studies show the transport mechanism for different types of biofilm structures, which were generated under different substrate conditions. At high loading rates, the growth of a rather loosely structured biofilm with high penetration depths of oxygen was found. Strong changes of substrate concentration during fed-batch mode operation of the reactor enhance the growth of filamentous biofilms on the carriers. Mass transport in the outer regions of such biofilms was mainly driven by advection.

Imaging plates calibration to X-rays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Curcio, A.; Andreoli, P.; Cipriani, M.; Claps, G.; Consoli, F.; Cristofari, G.; De Angelis, R.; Giulietti, D.; Ingenito, F.; Pacella, D.

2016-05-01

The growing interest for the Imaging Plates, due to their high sensitivity range and versatility, has induced, in the last years, to detailed characterizations of their response function in different energy ranges and kind of radiation/particles. A calibration of the Imaging Plates BAS-MS, BAS-SR, BAS-TR has been performed at the ENEA-Frascati labs by exploiting the X-ray fluorescence of different targets (Ca, Cu, Pb, Mo, I, Ta) and the radioactivity of a BaCs source, in order to cover the X-ray range between few keV to 80 keV.

40 CFR 1065.546 - Validation of minimum dilution ratio for PM batch sampling.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... chemical balance terms as given in § 1065.655(e). You may determine the raw exhaust flow rate based on the measured intake air and dilute exhaust molar flow rates and the dilute exhaust chemical balance terms as... air, fuel rate measurements, and fuel properties, consistent with good engineering judgment. (b...

40 CFR 1065.546 - Validation of minimum dilution ratio for PM batch sampling.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... chemical balance terms as given in § 1065.655(e). You may determine the raw exhaust flow rate based on the measured intake air and dilute exhaust molar flow rates and the dilute exhaust chemical balance terms as... air, fuel rate measurements, and fuel properties, consistent with good engineering judgment. (b...

40 CFR 1065.546 - Verification of minimum dilution ratio for PM batch sampling.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... chemical balance terms as given in § 1065.655(e). You may determine the raw exhaust flow rate based on the measured intake air and dilute exhaust molar flow rates and the dilute exhaust chemical balance terms as... air, fuel rate measurements, and fuel properties, consistent with good engineering judgment. (b...

The control algorithm of the system ‘frequency converter - asynchronous motor’ of the batcher

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lyapushkin, S. V.; Martyushev, N. V.; Shiryaev, S. Y.

2017-01-01

The paper is devoted to the solution of the problem of optimum batching of bulk mixtures according to the criterion of accuracy and maximally possible performance. This problem is solved for applied utilization when running the system ‘frequency converter - asynchronous motor’ having pulse-width modulation of a screw batcher of agricultural equipment. The developed control algorithm allows batching small components of a bulk mixture with the prescribed accuracy due to the weight consideration of the falling column of the material being in the air after the screw stoppage. The paper also shows that in order to reduce the influence of the mass of the ‘falling column’ on the accuracy of batching, it is necessary to specify the sequence of batching of components inside of the recipe beginning from the largest component ending with the least one. To exclude the variable error of batching, which arises owing to the mass of the material column, falling into the batcher-bunker, the algorithm of dynamic correction of the task is used in the control system.

Inhibition of microsomal prostaglandin E2 synthase-1 as a molecular basis for the anti-inflammatory actions of boswellic acids from frankincense

PubMed Central

Siemoneit, U; Koeberle, A; Rossi, A; Dehm, F; Verhoff, M; Reckel, S; Maier, TJ; Jauch, J; Northoff, H; Bernhard, F; Doetsch, V; Sautebin, L; Werz, O

2011-01-01

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Frankincense, the gum resin derived from Boswellia species, showed anti-inflammatory efficacy in animal models and in pilot clinical studies. Boswellic acids (BAs) are assumed to be responsible for these effects but their anti-inflammatory efficacy in vivo and their molecular modes of action are incompletely understood. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH A protein fishing approach using immobilized BA and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy were used to reveal microsomal prostaglandin E2 synthase-1 (mPGES1) as a BA-interacting protein. Cell-free and cell-based assays were applied to confirm the functional interference of BAs with mPGES1. Carrageenan-induced mouse paw oedema and rat pleurisy models were utilized to demonstrate the efficacy of defined BAs in vivo. KEY RESULTS Human mPGES1 from A549 cells or in vitro-translated human enzyme selectively bound to BA affinity matrices and SPR spectroscopy confirmed these interactions. BAs reversibly suppressed the transformation of prostaglandin (PG)H2 to PGE2 mediated by mPGES1 (IC50 = 3–10 µM). Also, in intact A549 cells, BAs selectively inhibited PGE2 generation and, in human whole blood, β-BA reduced lipopolysaccharide-induced PGE2 biosynthesis without affecting formation of the COX-derived metabolites 6-keto PGF1α and thromboxane B2. Intraperitoneal or oral administration of β-BA (1 mg·kg−1) suppressed rat pleurisy, accompanied by impaired levels of PGE2 and β-BA (1 mg·kg−1, given i.p.) also reduced mouse paw oedema, both induced by carrageenan. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Suppression of PGE2 formation by BAs via interference with mPGES1 contribute to the anti-inflammatory effectiveness of BAs and of frankincense, and may constitute a biochemical basis for their anti-inflammatory properties. PMID:20840544

The Surgical Personality: Does Surgery Resident Motivation Predict Attrition?

PubMed

Symer, Matthew M; Abelson, Jonathan S; Yeo, Heather L; Sosa, Julie A; Rosenthal, M Zachary

2018-05-01

There is limited understanding of the wide variation in attrition rates among general surgery residencies. We used the validated Behavior Inhibitory System/Behavior Approach System (BIS/BAS) instrument to compare motivational traits among residents who did and not complete surgical training. All US general surgery categorical interns in the class of 2007-2008 were surveyed with a validated motivational trait assessment tool. American Board of Surgery records from 2008-2016 were used to determine who completed training. Motivation, an aspect of personality, was assessed with the BIS/BAS, which correlates with an individual's tendency to approach pleasant stimuli (BAS) or avoid negative stimuli (BIS). Subscale mean scores were compared with regard to the primary end point, attrition. Eight hundred and one (76.5%) interns completed the survey and had matching records. Six hundred and forty-five (80.5%) completed training. Men had lower scores than women in the BAS Drive subscale (12.0 vs 12.5; p < 0.002), BAS Reward Response subscale (17.2 vs 17.7; p < 0.01), and BIS scale (19.3 vs 20.9; p < 0.01). The BAS Reward Response scores differed based on program type (academic 17.3 vs community 17.6 vs military 16.6; p < 0.0027). There were no differences based on program size (BIS average, small program 19.9 vs large program 19.7; p = 0.43). There were also no differences in BIS/BAS subscale scores based on residency completion status (BIS mean: completed 19.9 vs dropped out 20.1; p = 0.51). Surgery residents are characterized by a strong drive and persistence toward their goals. However, residents who drop out do not differ from those who complete training in their motivational personality traits. Copyright © 2018 American College of Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Inhibition of microsomal prostaglandin E2 synthase-1 as a molecular basis for the anti-inflammatory actions of boswellic acids from frankincense.

PubMed

Siemoneit, U; Koeberle, A; Rossi, A; Dehm, F; Verhoff, M; Reckel, S; Maier, T J; Jauch, J; Northoff, H; Bernhard, F; Doetsch, V; Sautebin, L; Werz, O

2011-01-01

Frankincense, the gum resin derived from Boswellia species, showed anti-inflammatory efficacy in animal models and in pilot clinical studies. Boswellic acids (BAs) are assumed to be responsible for these effects but their anti-inflammatory efficacy in vivo and their molecular modes of action are incompletely understood. A protein fishing approach using immobilized BA and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy were used to reveal microsomal prostaglandin E(2) synthase-1 (mPGES1) as a BA-interacting protein. Cell-free and cell-based assays were applied to confirm the functional interference of BAs with mPGES1. Carrageenan-induced mouse paw oedema and rat pleurisy models were utilized to demonstrate the efficacy of defined BAs in vivo. Human mPGES1 from A549 cells or in vitro-translated human enzyme selectively bound to BA affinity matrices and SPR spectroscopy confirmed these interactions. BAs reversibly suppressed the transformation of prostaglandin (PG)H(2) to PGE(2) mediated by mPGES1 (IC(50) = 3-10 µM). Also, in intact A549 cells, BAs selectively inhibited PGE(2) generation and, in human whole blood, β-BA reduced lipopolysaccharide-induced PGE(2) biosynthesis without affecting formation of the COX-derived metabolites 6-keto PGF(1α) and thromboxane B(2) . Intraperitoneal or oral administration of β-BA (1 mg·kg(-1) ) suppressed rat pleurisy, accompanied by impaired levels of PGE(2) and β-BA (1 mg·kg(-1) , given i.p.) also reduced mouse paw oedema, both induced by carrageenan. Suppression of PGE(2) formation by BAs via interference with mPGES1 contribute to the anti-inflammatory effectiveness of BAs and of frankincense, and may constitute a biochemical basis for their anti-inflammatory properties. © 2010 The Authors. British Journal of Pharmacology © 2010 The British Pharmacological Society.

North exterior elevation of Pope Quadrangle. Note the bas relief ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

North exterior elevation of Pope Quadrangle. Note the bas relief sculpture over the doorway, which includes the school motto, Aspirando et Perseverando. - Avon Old Farms School, 500 Avon Old Farms Road, Avon, Hartford County, CT

Interactive Effects of the BIS and the BAS on Trajectories of Alcohol Misuse after University Graduation.

PubMed

Keough, Matthew T; O'Connor, Roisin M

2015-01-01

Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory predicts that those with a strong behavioral inhibition system (BIS) likely experience considerable anxiety and uncertainty during the transition out of university. Accordingly, they may continue to drink heavily to cope during this time (a period associated with normative reductions in heavy drinking), but only if they also have a strong behavioral approach system (BAS) to enhance the anxiolytic effects of drinking. The purpose of this study was to test this hypothesis. Participants completed online measures prior to and at 3-month intervals over the course of the year following graduation. As hypothesized, results showed that an elevated BIS predicted impeded maturing out, but only when the impulsivity facet of BAS was also elevated. In contrast, a strong BIS predicted rapid maturing out if BAS impulsivity was weak. Study findings advance our understanding of BIS-related alcohol misuse trajectories in young adulthood and provide direction for clinical interventions.

Brønsted acid sites based on penta-coordinated aluminum species

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Zichun; Jiang, Yijiao; Lafon, Olivier; Trébosc, Julien; Duk Kim, Kyung; Stampfl, Catherine; Baiker, Alfons; Amoureux, Jean-Paul; Huang, Jun

2016-12-01

Zeolites and amorphous silica-alumina (ASA), which both provide Brønsted acid sites (BASs), are the most extensively used solid acid catalysts in the chemical industry. It is widely believed that BASs consist only of tetra-coordinated aluminum sites (AlIV) with bridging OH groups in zeolites or nearby silanols on ASA surfaces. Here we report the direct observation in ASA of a new type of BAS based on penta-coordinated aluminum species (AlV) by 27Al-{1H} dipolar-mediated correlation two-dimensional NMR experiments at high magnetic field under magic-angle spinning. Both BAS-AlIV and -AlV show a similar acidity to protonate probe molecular ammonia. The quantitative evaluation of 1H and 27Al sites demonstrates that BAS-AlV co-exists with BAS-AlIV rather than replaces it, which opens new avenues for strongly enhancing the acidity of these popular solid acids.

Hypothesis testing on the fractal structure of behavioral sequences: the Bayesian assessment of scaling methodology.

PubMed

Moscoso del Prado Martín, Fermín

2013-12-01

I introduce the Bayesian assessment of scaling (BAS), a simple but powerful Bayesian hypothesis contrast methodology that can be used to test hypotheses on the scaling regime exhibited by a sequence of behavioral data. Rather than comparing parametric models, as typically done in previous approaches, the BAS offers a direct, nonparametric way to test whether a time series exhibits fractal scaling. The BAS provides a simpler and faster test than do previous methods, and the code for making the required computations is provided. The method also enables testing of finely specified hypotheses on the scaling indices, something that was not possible with the previously available methods. I then present 4 simulation studies showing that the BAS methodology outperforms the other methods used in the psychological literature. I conclude with a discussion of methodological issues on fractal analyses in experimental psychology. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2014 APA, all rights reserved.

Insights into the Biogenic Amine Metabolic Landscape during Industrial Semidry Chinese Rice Wine Fermentation.

PubMed

Xia, Xiaole; Zhang, Qingwen; Zhang, Bin; Zhang, Wuji; Wang, Wu

2016-10-05

Inspired by concerns about food safety, the metabolic landscape of biogenic amines (BAs) was elucidated during industrial semidry Chinese rice wine fermentation. The main fermentation process represented the largest contribution to BA formation, which corresponded to 69.1% (54.3 mg/L). Principal component analysis revealed that total acid and ethanol were strongly correlated with BAs, indicating that BA formation favored acidic and stressful conditions. Other than putrescine (PUT), spermidine (SPD), and spermine (SPM), 5 BAs exhibited strong relationships with the precursor amino acids (R 2 > 0.85). PUT was mainly decarboxylated from arginine (89.6%) whereas SPD (100%) and SPM (83.1%) were obtained from ornithine. Interestingly, some SPD could convert back to PUT (24.3%). All 8 BAs showed good relationships with lactic acid bacteria (LAB) (R 2 around 0.75). Moreover, among the five main LAB genera, Lactobacillus had a positive correlation with BA formation.

The microstructural characterization of an in situ grown Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} whisker-reinforced BAS glass-ceramic matrix composite

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

Yu, Feng; Ortiz-Longo, C.R.; White, K.W.

The microstructure of barium aluminum silicate (BAS)/silicon nitride in situ whisker reinforced ceramic matrix composite was examined by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, electron diffraction and energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis. Although the authors can not conclusively exclude the presence of orthorhombic BAS, hexagonal BAS and both {alpha}-Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} and {beta}-Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} were identified in this material. The {beta}-Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} whiskers nucleate and grow in random directions in the nearly continuous matrix of metastable hexacelsian. The crystallization process of the glass phase can be taken almost to completion but a small proportion of residual glass phase is present atmore » the interface and grains-junction. Both whisker-like and equiaxed {beta}-Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} exist in this material.« less

Production of pullulan by a thermotolerant aureobasidium pullulans strain in non-stirred fed batch fermentation process.

PubMed

Singh, Ranjan; Gaur, Rajeeva; Tiwari, Soni; Gaur, Manogya Kumar

2012-07-01

Total 95 isolates of Aureobasidium pullulans were isolated from different flowers and leaves samples, out of which 11 thermotolerant strains produced pullulan. One thermotolerant non-melanin pullulan producing strain, designated as RG-5, produced highest pullulan (37.1±1.0 g/l) at 42(o)C, pH 5.5 in 48h of incubation with 3% sucrose and 0.5% ammonium sulphate in a non-stirred fed batch fermentor of 6 liters capacity. The two liters of initial volume of fermentation medium was further fed with the 2 liters in two successive batches at 5 h interval into the fermentor. The sterile air was supplied only for 10h at the rate of 0.5 vvm.

Long-term outcomes in patients diagnosed with bile-acid diarrhoea.

PubMed

Lin, Simeng; Sanders, David S; Gleeson, Joseph T; Osborne, Christopher; Messham, Louise; Kurien, Matthew

2016-02-01

Bile-acid diarrhoea (BAD) is a recognized cause of chronic diarrhoea; however, its detection remains suboptimal. Currently, there is a paucity of follow-up studies evaluating BAD. This work evaluates the natural history of BAD by examining individuals diagnosed with BAD [7 days of Se-homocholic acid taurine (SeHCAT) retention<10%] and determining the use of and response to bile-acid sequestrants (BAS). Of the 515 patients, 40% (207/515) who underwent an SeHCAT test at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals (2001-2012) for chronic diarrhoea had BAD. Of the 207 (51%) patients, 107 were diagnosed between 2001 and 2009. In accordance with the guidelines, all of these patients were commenced on BAS. In March 2013, these individuals were reassessed either in the clinic or over the telephone as part of a local service evaluation project. Comparisons were made of both pretreatment and post-treatment variables using a Wilcoxon rank test. Of the 107 patients, 54% (58/107) were followed up, with a median time since diagnosis of 6 years. Among them, 38% were still using BAS at follow-up, with 28% using alternative antidiarrhoeals. The median stool frequency decreased from seven stools per day to three (P=0.0008) in those using BAS. The 34% of patients not receiving treatment had no change in their daily bowel frequency. The main reason for discontinuing treatment was poor tolerability of the BAS (colestyramine/colestipol). Our findings indicate that BAD is a chronic condition that best improves with BAS. Consideration should be given to therapeutic options that have a better tolerability profile.

Bile acid malabsorption in persistent diarrhoea.

PubMed

Smith, M J; Cherian, P; Raju, G S; Dawson, B F; Mahon, S; Bardhan, K D

2000-01-01

We have investigated bile acid malabsorption (BAM), and its response to treatment, in patients seen in this district general hospital with chronic continuous or recurrent diarrhoea. Seven-day retention of 75-SeHCAT was measured (normal: > 10%). Patients were initially given conventional therapy (prednisolone +/- ASA drugs in Crohn's disease, and antidiarrhoeals in the others). If this therapy failed, bile acid sequestrants (BAS) were prescribed. The definition of successful response was based on the patient's perception of sustained improvement. The 304 patients were categorised as follows: Group 1: Crohn's disease patients with ileal resection, in clinical remission (n = 37). Group 2: Crohn's disease, unoperated and in clinical remission (n = 44). Group 3: vagotomy and pyloroplasty, with/without cholecystectomy (n = 26). Group 4: diarrhoea predominant 'irritable bowel syndrome' (IBS) (n = 197). BAM was found in 97% (36/37), 54% (24/44) and 58% (15/26) of patients in groups 1, 2 and 3 respectively. One third (65/197) of patients with IBS had BAM. The outcome of treatment was available in 96 patients with BAM: of the patients with ileal resection 32% responded to antidiarrhoeals, 60% to BAS. Of the unoperated Crohn's patients 55% responded to disease-specific therapy, 40% to BAS. Of the gastric surgery patients 18% responded to conventional treatment, 64% to BAS. Of the IBS patients 15% of responded to conventional therapy, 70% to BAS. This observational study indicates that BAM is common in patients with chronic diarrhoea, and is frequently found in IBS. The results of open treatment suggest that, where antidiarrhoeal drugs fail in such patients, BAS are often effective.

Bile acids modulate signaling by functional perturbation of plasma membrane domains.

PubMed

Zhou, Yong; Maxwell, Kelsey N; Sezgin, Erdinc; Lu, Maryia; Liang, Hong; Hancock, John F; Dial, Elizabeth J; Lichtenberger, Lenard M; Levental, Ilya

2013-12-13

Eukaryotic cell membranes are organized into functional lipid and protein domains, the most widely studied being membrane rafts. Although rafts have been associated with numerous plasma membrane functions, the mechanisms by which these domains themselves are regulated remain undefined. Bile acids (BAs), whose primary function is the solubilization of dietary lipids for digestion and absorption, can affect cells by interacting directly with membranes. To investigate whether these interactions affected domain organization in biological membranes, we assayed the effects of BAs on biomimetic synthetic liposomes, isolated plasma membranes, and live cells. At cytotoxic concentrations, BAs dissolved synthetic and cell-derived membranes and disrupted live cell plasma membranes, implicating plasma membrane damage as the mechanism for BA cellular toxicity. At subtoxic concentrations, BAs dramatically stabilized domain separation in Giant Plasma Membrane Vesicles without affecting protein partitioning between coexisting domains. Domain stabilization was the result of BA binding to and disordering the nonraft domain, thus promoting separation by enhancing domain immiscibility. Consistent with the physical changes observed in synthetic and isolated biological membranes, BAs reorganized intact cell membranes, as evaluated by the spatial distribution of membrane-anchored Ras isoforms. Nanoclustering of K-Ras, related to nonraft membrane domains, was enhanced in intact plasma membranes, whereas the organization of H-Ras was unaffected. BA-induced changes in Ras lateral segregation potentiated EGF-induced signaling through MAPK, confirming the ability of BAs to influence cell signal transduction by altering the physical properties of the plasma membrane. These observations suggest general, membrane-mediated mechanisms by which biological amphiphiles can produce their cellular effects.

Progression along the Bipolar Spectrum: A Longitudinal Study of Predictors of Conversion from Bipolar Spectrum Conditions to Bipolar I and II Disorders

PubMed Central

Alloy, Lauren B.; Urošević, Snežana; Abramson, Lyn Y.; Jager-Hyman, Shari; Nusslock, Robin; Whitehouse, Wayne G.; Hogan, Michael

2011-01-01

Little longitudinal research has examined progression to more severe bipolar disorders in individuals with “soft” bipolar spectrum conditions. We examine rates and predictors of progression to bipolar I and II diagnoses in a non-patient sample of college-age participants (n = 201) with high General Behavior Inventory scores and childhood or adolescent onset of “soft” bipolar spectrum disorders followed longitudinally for 4.5 years from the Longitudinal Investigation of Bipolar Spectrum (LIBS) project. Of 57 individuals with initial cyclothymia or bipolar disorder not otherwise specified (BiNOS) diagnoses, 42.1% progressed to a bipolar II diagnosis and 10.5% progressed to a bipolar I diagnosis. Of 144 individuals with initial bipolar II diagnoses, 17.4% progressed to a bipolar I diagnosis. Consistent with hypotheses derived from the clinical literature and the Behavioral Approach System (BAS) model of bipolar disorder, and controlling for relevant variables (length of follow-up, initial depressive and hypomanic symptoms, treatment-seeking, and family history), high BAS sensitivity (especially BAS Fun Seeking) predicted a greater likelihood of progression to bipolar II disorder, whereas early age of onset and high impulsivity predicted a greater likelihood of progression to bipolar I (high BAS sensitivity and Fun-Seeking also predicted progression to bipolar I when family history was not controlled). The interaction of high BAS and high Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS) sensitivities also predicted greater likelihood of progression to bipolar I. We discuss implications of the findings for the bipolar spectrum concept, the BAS model of bipolar disorder, and early intervention efforts. PMID:21668080

Rapid determination of biogenic amines in cooked beef using hyperspectral imaging with sparse representation algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Dong; Lu, Anxiang; Ren, Dong; Wang, Jihua

2017-11-01

This study explored the feasibility of rapid detection of biogenic amines (BAs) in cooked beef during the storage process using hyperspectral imaging technique combined with sparse representation (SR) algorithm. The hyperspectral images of samples were collected in the two spectral ranges of 400-1000 nm and 1000-1800 nm, separately. The spectral data were reduced dimensionality by SR and principal component analysis (PCA) algorithms, and then integrated the least square support vector machine (LS-SVM) to build the SR-LS-SVM and PC-LS-SVM models for the prediction of BAs values in cooked beef. The results showed that the SR-LS-SVM model exhibited the best predictive ability with determination coefficients (RP2) of 0.943 and root mean square errors (RMSEP) of 1.206 in the range of 400-1000 nm of prediction set. The SR and PCA algorithms were further combined to establish the best SR-PC-LS-SVM model for BAs prediction, which had high RP2of 0.969 and low RMSEP of 1.039 in the region of 400-1000 nm. The visual map of the BAs was generated using the best SR-PC-LS-SVM model with imaging process algorithms, which could be used to observe the changes of BAs in cooked beef more intuitively. The study demonstrated that hyperspectral imaging technique combined with sparse representation were able to detect effectively the BAs values in cooked beef during storage and the built SR-PC-LS-SVM model had a potential for rapid and accurate determination of freshness indexes in other meat and meat products.

Bacterial communities in pigmented biofilms formed on the sandstone bas-relief walls of the Bayon Temple, Angkor Thom, Cambodia.

PubMed

Kusumi, Asako; Li, Xianshu; Osuga, Yu; Kawashima, Arata; Gu, Ji-Dong; Nasu, Masao; Katayama, Yoko

2013-01-01

The Bayon temple in Angkor Thom, Cambodia has shown serious deterioration and is subject to the formation of various pigmented biofilms. Because biofilms are damaging the bas-reliefs, low reliefs engraved on the surface of sandstone, information about the microbial community within them is indispensable to control biofilm colonization. PCR-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) analysis of biofilm samples from the pigmented sandstone surfaces showed that the bacterial community members in the biofilms differed clearly from those in the air and had low sequence similarity to database sequences. Non-destructive sampling of biofilm revealed novel bacterial groups of predominantly Rubrobacter in salmon pink biofilm, Cyanobacteria in chrome green biofilm, Cyanobacteria and Chloroflexi in signal violet biofilm, Chloroflexi in black gray biofilm, and Deinococcus-Thermus, Cyanobacteria, and Rubrobacter in blue green biofilm. Serial peeling-off of a thick biofilm by layers with adhesive sheets revealed a stratified structure: the blue-green biofilm, around which there was serious deterioration, was very rich in Cyanobacteria near the surface and Chloroflexi in deep layer below. Nitrate ion concentrations were high in the blue-green biofilm. The characteristic distribution of bacteria at different biofilm depths provides valuable information on not only the biofilm formation process but also the sandstone weathering process in the tropics.

40 CFR 63.462 - Batch cold cleaning machine standards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) NATIONAL EMISSION STANDARDS FOR HAZARDOUS AIR POLLUTANTS FOR SOURCE CATEGORIES... splashing against tank walls or parts being cleaned. (7) The owner or operator shall ensure that, when the...

40 CFR 63.462 - Batch cold cleaning machine standards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) NATIONAL EMISSION STANDARDS FOR HAZARDOUS AIR POLLUTANTS FOR SOURCE CATEGORIES... splashing against tank walls or parts being cleaned. (7) The owner or operator shall ensure that, when the...

40 CFR 63.462 - Batch cold cleaning machine standards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) NATIONAL EMISSION STANDARDS FOR HAZARDOUS AIR POLLUTANTS FOR SOURCE CATEGORIES... splashing against tank walls or parts being cleaned. (7) The owner or operator shall ensure that, when the...

40 CFR 63.462 - Batch cold cleaning machine standards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) NATIONAL EMISSION STANDARDS FOR HAZARDOUS AIR POLLUTANTS FOR SOURCE CATEGORIES... splashing against tank walls or parts being cleaned. (7) The owner or operator shall ensure that, when the...

40 CFR 63.462 - Batch cold cleaning machine standards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) NATIONAL EMISSION STANDARDS FOR HAZARDOUS AIR POLLUTANTS FOR SOURCE CATEGORIES... splashing against tank walls or parts being cleaned. (7) The owner or operator shall ensure that, when the...

Development and validation of a solid-phase extraction method coupled with HPLC-UV detection for the determination of biogenic amines in Chinese rice wine.

PubMed

Zhang, Ying; Li, Yan; Zhu, Xiao-Juan; Li, Min; Chen, Hao-Yu; Lv, Xiao-Ling; Zhang, Jian

2017-07-01

A reliable and accurate method for the determination of seven biogenic amines (BAs) was developed and validated with Chinese rice wine samples. The BAs were derivatised with dansyl chloride, cleaned up using solid-phase extraction (SPE) and separated by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with ultraviolet (UV) detection. The optimised derivatisation reaction, conducted at pH 9.6 and 60°C for 30 min, ensured baseline separation and peak symmetry for each BA. SPE clean-up using Oasis MCX cartridges yielded good recovery rates for all BAs and effectively reduced matrix effects. The developed method shows good linearity with determination coefficients of more than 0.9989 over a concentration range of 0.1-100 mg l -1 . The limits of detection (LODs) for the investigated BAs ranged from 2.07 to 5.56 µg l -1 . The intra- and inter-day relative standard deviations (RSDs) ranged from 0.86% to 3.81% and from 2.13% to 3.82%, respectively. Spiking experiments showed that the overall recovery rates ranged from 85% to 113%. Thus, the proposed method was demonstrated as being suitable for simultaneous detection, with accurate and precise quantification, of BAs in Chinese rice wine.

Behavioral activation system modulation on brain activation during appetitive and aversive stimulus processing.

PubMed

Barrós-Loscertales, Alfonso; Ventura-Campos, Noelia; Sanjuán-Tomás, Ana; Belloch, Vicente; Parcet, Maria-Antònia; Avila, César

2010-03-01

The reinforcement sensitivity theory (RST) proposed the behavioral activation system (BAS) as a neurobehavioral system that is dependent on dopamine-irrigated structures and that mediates the individual differences in sensitivity and reactivity to appetitive stimuli associated with BAS-related personality traits. Theoretical developments propose that high BAS sensitivity is associated with both enhanced appetitive stimuli processing and the diminished processing of aversive stimuli. The objective of this study was to analyze how individual differences in BAS functioning were associated with brain activation during erotic and aversive picture processing while subjects were involved in a simple goal-directed task. Forty-five male participants took part in this study. The task activation results confirm the activation of the reward and punishment brain-related structures while viewing erotic and aversive pictures, respectively. The SR scores show a positive correlation with activation of the left lateral prefrontal cortex, the mesial prefrontal cortex and the right occipital cortex while viewing erotic pictures, and a negative correlation with the right lateral prefrontal cortex and the left occipital cortex while viewing aversive pictures. In summary, the SR scores modulate the activity of the cortical areas in the prefrontal and the occipital cortices that are proposed to modulate the BAS and the BIS-FFFS.

40 CFR 1065.341 - CVS and batch sampler verification (propane check).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... contamination. Otherwise, zero, span, and verify contamination of the HC sampling system, as follows: (1) Select... flow rates. (2) Zero the HC analyzer using zero air introduced at the analyzer port. (3) Span the HC analyzer using C3H8 span gas introduced at the analyzer port. (4) Overflow zero air at the HC probe inlet...

40 CFR 1065.341 - CVS and batch sampler verification (propane check).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... contamination. Otherwise, zero, span, and verify contamination of the HC sampling system, as follows: (1) Select... flow rates. (2) Zero the HC analyzer using zero air introduced at the analyzer port. (3) Span the HC analyzer using C3H8 span gas introduced at the analyzer port. (4) Overflow zero air at the HC probe inlet...

Undercar Electrical Generator for Railway Passenger Cars: Improvement of Efficiency / Dzelzceļa Pasažieru Zemvagona Elektriskā Ģeneratora Efektivitātes Uzlabošana

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Levin, N.; Kamolins, E.; Gusakov, A.; Pugachev, V.

2013-04-01

Passenger cars of the railway transport are being constantly improved, thus becoming ever more comfortable for public conveyance. These cars are fitted with air conditioners, installations for heating and forced ventilation, heaters, refrigerators; lighting, radio and TV sets; communication equipment, etc. All the listed fittings need continuous and secure electricity supply from a primary independent source. The paper considers the possibilities of meeting requirements for particular power supply systems - first of all for undercar generators. At operation of such a high-power generator under rugged conditions it should be highly reliable, possessing a reasonable mass and high efficiency. The existing designs of these generators still do not meet the listed requirements in full measure. To improve the efficiency of the undercar generator it is proposed to integrate its excitation winding into the armature one, thus reducing the copper consumption, losses and mass, while - which is the most important - considerably raising reliability of the generator and its availability factor. Dzelzceļa transporta pasažieru vilcienu vagoni nepārtraukti tiek pilnveidoti ar mērķi paaugstināt pasažieru komforta līmeni pārvadājumu laikā. Šādi pasažieru vagoni aprīkoti ar gaisa kondicionēšanas, apsildes, ventilācijas, ūdens uzsildīšanas, saldēšanas, apgaismes, radio, televīzijas, sakaru u.c. iekārtām. Visām pieminētajām iekārtām to darbības laikā ir nepieciešama nepārtraukta un droša elektroenerģijas apgāde no primāra neatkarīga avota. Darbā tiek izskatīta elektroapgādes sistēma, kura spētu nodrošināt izvirzītās prasības. Pie šīs sistēmas, pirmkārt, pieder zemvagona ģenerators. Tam ir jābūt paaugstinātas jaudas, smagos darba apstākļos jānodrošina augsts drošums, ar pieņemamu masu un augstu lietderības koeficientu. Šādu ģeneratoru esošās konstrukcijas pilnā mērā nespēj nodrošināt iepriekš minētās prasības. Lai paaugstinātu zemvagona ģeneratora efektivitāti, tiek piedāvāts elektriski integrēt tā ierosmes tinumu enkura tinumā, turklāt samazinot izmantojamā vara apjomu, zudumus, masu, bet, galvenais, būtiski paaugstinot drošumu un gatavības koeficientu.

40 CFR 1065.245 - Sample flow meter for batch sampling.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING PROCEDURES Measurement Instruments Flow-Related Measurements § 1065.245... difference between a diluted exhaust sample flow meter and a dilution air meter to calculate raw exhaust flow...

40 CFR 1065.245 - Sample flow meter for batch sampling.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING PROCEDURES Measurement Instruments Flow-Related Measurements § 1065.245... difference between a diluted exhaust sample flow meter and a dilution air meter to calculate raw exhaust flow...

40 CFR 1065.245 - Sample flow meter for batch sampling.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING PROCEDURES Measurement Instruments Flow-Related Measurements § 1065.245... difference between a diluted exhaust sample flow meter and a dilution air meter to calculate raw exhaust flow...

40 CFR 1065.245 - Sample flow meter for batch sampling.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING PROCEDURES Measurement Instruments Flow-Related Measurements § 1065.245... difference between a diluted exhaust sample flow meter and a dilution air meter to calculate raw exhaust flow...

Field evaluation of alternative and cost efficient bridge approach slabs.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-11-01

Based on a recent study on cost efficient alternative bridge approach slab (BAS) designs (Thiagarajan et al. 2010) has recommended : three new BAS designs for possible implementation by MoDOT namely a) 20 feet cast-inplace slab with sleeper slab (CIP...

A single-dose, randomized, cross-over, two-way, open-label study for comparing the absorption of boswellic acids and its lecithin formulation.

PubMed

Riva, Antonella; Morazzoni, Paolo; Artaria, Christian; Allegrini, Pietro; Meins, Jürgen; Savio, Daniele; Appendino, Giovanni; Schubert-Zsilavecz, Manfred; Abdel-Tawab, Mona

2016-11-15

The oral administration of the gum resin extracts of Indian frankincense (Boswellia serrata Roxb. ex Colebr) results in very low plasma concentrations of boswellic acids (BAs), being far below the pharmacologically active concentrations required in vitro for anti-inflammatory activity. For that reason the use of Indian frankincense in clinical practice and pharmaceutical development has substantially lagged behind. Recently the application of new formulation technologies resulted in a formulation of frankincense extract with lecithin, which revealed improved absorption and tissue penetration of BAs in a rodent study, leading for the first time to plasma concentrations of BAs in the range of their anti-inflammatory activity. In order to verify these encouraging results in humans, the absorption of a standardized Boswellia serrata extract (BE) and its lecithin formulation (CSP) was comparatively investigated in healthy volunteers. According to a randomized cross-over design with two treatments, two sequences and two periods, 12 volunteers alternatively received the lecithin-formulated Boswellia extract (CSP) or the non-formulated Boswellia extract (BE) at a dosage of 2×250mg capsules. The plasma concentrations of the six major BAs (KBA, AKBA, βBA, αBA, AβBA, AαBA) were determined using LC/MS. With the exception of KBA, a significantly higher (both in terms of weight-to-weight and molar comparison) and quicker absorption of BAs from the lecithin formulation was observed, leading to C max in the range required for the interaction with their molecular targets. These findings pave the way to further studies evaluating the clinical potential of BAs, and verify the beneficial effect of lecithin formulation to improve the absorption of poorly soluble phytochemicals. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier GmbH.. All rights reserved.

Ca2+-associated triphasic pH changes in mitochondria during brown adipocyte activation.

PubMed

Hou, Yanyan; Kitaguchi, Tetsuya; Kriszt, Rókus; Tseng, Yu-Hua; Raghunath, Michael; Suzuki, Madoka

2017-08-01

Brown adipocytes (BAs) are endowed with a high metabolic capacity for energy expenditure due to their high mitochondria content. While mitochondrial pH is dynamically regulated in response to stimulation and, in return, affects various metabolic processes, how mitochondrial pH is regulated during adrenergic stimulation-induced thermogenesis is unknown. We aimed to reveal the spatial and temporal dynamics of mitochondrial pH in stimulated BAs and the mechanisms behind the dynamic pH changes. A mitochondrial targeted pH-sensitive protein, mito-pHluorin, was constructed and transfected to BAs. Transfected BAs were stimulated by an adrenergic agonist, isoproterenol. The pH changes in mitochondria were characterized by dual-color imaging with indicators that monitor mitochondrial membrane potential and heat production. The mechanisms of pH changes were studied by examining the involvement of electron transport chain (ETC) activity and Ca 2+ profiles in mitochondria and the intracellular Ca 2+ store, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). A triphasic mitochondrial pH change in BAs upon adrenergic stimulation was revealed. In comparison to a thermosensitive dye, we reveal that phases 1 and 2 of the pH increase precede thermogenesis, while phase 3, characterized by a pH decrease, occurs during thermogenesis. The mechanism of pH increase is partially related to ETC. In addition, the pH increase occurs concurrently with an increase in mitochondrial Ca 2+ . This Ca 2+ increase is contributed to by an influx from the ER, and it is further involved in mitochondrial pH regulation. We demonstrate that an increase in mitochondrial pH is implicated as an early event in adrenergically stimulated BAs. We further suggest that this pH increase may play a role in the potentiation of thermogenesis.

Train the trainer? A randomized controlled trial of a multi-tiered oral health education programme in community-based residential services for adults with intellectual disability.

PubMed

Mac Giolla Phadraig, Caoimhin; Guerin, Suzanne; Nunn, June

2013-04-01

To assess the impact of a multi-tiered oral health education programme on care staff caring for people with intellectual disability (ID). Postal questionnaires were sent to all care staff of a community-based residential care service for adults, randomly assigned to control and intervention groups. A specifically developed training programme was delivered to residential staff nominees, who then trained all staff within the intervention group. The control group received no training. Post-test questionnaires were sent to both groups. Paired-samples t-test was used to compare oral health-related knowledge (K) and behaviour, attitude and self-efficacy (BAS) scores. Of the initial 219 respondents, 154 (response rate between 40% and 35.8%, with attrition rate of 29.7% from baseline to repeat) returned completed questionnaires at post-test (M=8.5 months, range=6.5-11 months). Control and intervention groups were comparable for general training, employment and demographic variables. In the intervention group, mean Knowledge Index score rose from K=7.2 to K=7.9 (P<0.001) and mean BAS scale score rose from BAS=4.7 to BAS=5.4 (P<0.001). There was no statistically significant increase in mean scores from test (K=7.0, BAS=4.7) to post-test (K=7.2, BAS=4.9) for the control group. Mean scores regarding knowledge, attitude, self-efficacy and reported behaviour increased significantly at 8.5 months in staff where training was provided. The results indicate that a multi-tiered training programme improved knowledge, attitude, self-efficacy and reported behaviour amongst staff caring for people with ID. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Personality correlates (BAS-BIS), self-perception of social ranking, and cortical (alpha frequency band) modulation in peer-group comparison.

PubMed

Balconi, Michela; Pagani, Silvia

2014-06-22

The perception and interpretation of social hierarchies are a key part of our social life. In the present research we considered the activation of cortical areas, mainly the prefrontal cortex, related to social ranking perception in conjunction with some personality components (BAS - Behavioral Activation System - and BIS - Behavioral Inhibition System). In two experiments we manipulated the perceived superior/inferior status during a competitive cognitive task. Indeed, we created an explicit and strongly reinforced social hierarchy based on incidental rating in an attentional task. Specifically, a peer group comparison was undertaken and improved (Experiment 1) or decreased (Experiment 2) performance was artificially manipulated by the experimenter. For each experiment two groups were compared, based on a BAS and BIS dichotomy. Alpha band modulation in prefrontal cortex, behavioral measures (performance: error rate, ER; response times, RTs), and self-perceived ranking were considered. Repeated measures ANOVAs and regression analyses showed in Experiment 1 a significant improved cognitive performance (decreased ER and RTs) and higher self-perceived ranking in high-BAS participants. Moreover, their prefrontal activity was increased within the left side (alpha band decreasing). Conversely, in Experiment 2 a significant decreased cognitive performance (increased ER and RTs) and lower self-perceived ranking was observed in higher-BIS participants. Their prefrontal right activity was increased in comparison with higher BAS. The regression analyses confirmed the significant predictive role of alpha band modulation with respect of subjects' performance and self-perception of social ranking, differently for BAS/BIS components. The present results suggest that social status perception is directly modulated by cortical activity and personality correlates. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The prevalence, distribution, and clinical outcomes of electrocardiographic repolarization patterns in male athletes of African/Afro-Caribbean origin.

PubMed

Papadakis, Michael; Carre, Francois; Kervio, Gaelle; Rawlins, John; Panoulas, Vasileios F; Chandra, Navin; Basavarajaiah, Sandeep; Carby, Lorna; Fonseca, Tiago; Sharma, Sanjay

2011-09-01

Athletic training in male black athletes (BAs) is associated with marked ECG repolarization changes that overlap with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Differentiating between the two entities is prudent since BAs exhibit a higher prevalence of exercise-related sudden death from HCM compared with white athletes (WAs). Between 1996 and 2010, 904 BAs underwent serial cardiac evaluations including ECG and echocardiography. Athletes exhibiting T-wave inversions were investigated further for HCM. Results were compared with 1819 WAs, 119 black controls (BCs), and 52 black HCM patients. Athletes were followed up for 69.7 ± 29.6 months. T-wave inversions were present in 82.7% HCM patients, 22.8% BAs, 10.1% BCs, and 3.7% WAs. In athletes, the major determinant of T-wave inversions was black ethnicity. T-wave inversions in BAs (12.7%) were predominantly confined to contiguous anterior leads (V1-V4). Only 4.1% of BAs exhibited T-wave inversions in the lateral leads. In contrast, both BCs and HCM patients exhibited lower prevalence of T-wave inversions in leads V1-V4 (4.2 and 3.8%, respectively) with most T-wave inversions in HCM patients (76.9%) involving the lateral leads. During follow-up one BA survived cardiac arrest and two athletes (one BA, one WA) were diagnosed with HCM. All three exhibited T-wave inversions in the lateral leads. T-wave inversions in leads V1-V4 appear to represent an ethnic variant of 'athlete's heart'. Conversely, T-wave inversions in the lateral leads may represent the initial expression of underlying cardiomyopathy and merit further evaluation and regular surveillance.

Forms of n-3 (ALA, C18:3n-3 or DHA, C22:6n-3) Fatty Acids Affect Carcass Yield, Blood Lipids, Muscle n-3 Fatty Acids and Liver Gene Expression in Lambs.

PubMed

Ponnampalam, Eric N; Lewandowski, Paul A; Fahri, Fahri T; Burnett, Viv F; Dunshea, Frank R; Plozza, Tim; Jacobs, Joe L

2015-11-01

The effects of supplementing diets with n-3 alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on plasma metabolites, carcass yield, muscle n-3 fatty acids and liver messenger RNA (mRNA) in lambs were investigated. Lambs (n = 120) were stratified to 12 groups based on body weight (35 ± 3.1 kg), and within groups randomly allocated to four dietary treatments: basal diet (BAS), BAS with 10.7 % flaxseed supplement (Flax), BAS with 1.8 % algae supplement (DHA), BAS with Flax and DHA (FlaxDHA). Lambs were fed for 56 days. Blood samples were collected on day 0 and day 56, and plasma analysed for insulin and lipids. Lambs were slaughtered, and carcass traits measured. At 30 min and 24 h, liver and muscle samples, respectively, were collected for determination of mRNA (FADS1, FADS2, CPT1A, ACOX1) and fatty acid composition. Lambs fed Flax had higher plasma triacylglycerol, body weight, body fat and carcass yield compared with the BAS group (P < 0.001). DHA supplementation increased carcass yield and muscle DHA while lowering plasma insulin compared with the BAS diet (P < 0.01). Flax treatment increased (P < 0.001) muscle ALA concentration, while DHA treatment increased (P < 0.001) muscle DHA concentration. Liver mRNA FADS2 was higher and CPT1A lower in the DHA group (P < 0.05). The FlaxDHA diet had additive effects, including higher FADS1 and ACOX1 mRNA than for the Flax or DHA diet. In summary, supplementation with ALA or DHA modulated plasma metabolites, muscle DHA, body fat and liver gene expression differently.

Production of pullulan by a thermotolerant aureobasidium pullulans strain in non-stirred fed batch fermentation process

PubMed Central

Singh, Ranjan; Gaur, Rajeeva; Tiwari, Soni; Gaur, Manogya Kumar

2012-01-01

Total 95 isolates of Aureobasidium pullulans were isolated from different flowers and leaves samples, out of which 11 thermotolerant strains produced pullulan. One thermotolerant non-melanin pullulan producing strain, designated as RG-5, produced highest pullulan (37.1±1.0 g/l) at 42oC, pH 5.5 in 48h of incubation with 3% sucrose and 0.5% ammonium sulphate in a non-stirred fed batch fermentor of 6 liters capacity. The two liters of initial volume of fermentation medium was further fed with the 2 liters in two successive batches at 5 h interval into the fermentor. The sterile air was supplied only for 10h at the rate of 0.5 vvm. PMID:24031927

CrossTalk. The Journal of Defense Software Engineering. Volume 16, Number 11, November 2003

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-11-01

memory area, and stack pointer. These systems are classified as preemptive or nonpreemptive depending on whether they can preempt an existing task or not...of charge. The Software Technology Support Center was established at Ogden Air Logistics Center (AFMC) by Headquarters U.S. Air Force to help Air...device. A script file could be a list of commands for a command interpreter such as a batch file [15]. A communications port consists of a queue to hold

Dysregulated hepatic bile acids collaboratively promote liver carcinogenesis

PubMed Central

Xie, Guoxiang; Wang, Xiaoning; Huang, Fengjie; Zhao, Aihua; Chen, Wenlian; Yan, Jingyu; Zhang, Yunjing; Lei, Sha; Ge, Kun; Zheng, Xiaojiao; Liu, Jiajian; Su, Mingming; Liu, Ping; Jia, Wei

2017-01-01

Dysregulated bile acids (BAs) are closely associated with liver diseases and attributed to altered gut microbiota. Here, we show that the intrahepatic retention of hydrophobic BAs including deoxycholate (DCA), taurocholate (TCA), taurochenodeoxycholate (TCDCA), and taurolithocholate (TLCA) were substantially increased in a streptozotocin and high fat diet (HFD) induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis-hepatocellular carcinoma (NASH-HCC) mouse model. Additionally chronic HFD-fed mice spontaneously developed liver tumors with significantly increased hepatic BA levels. Enhancing intestinal excretion of hydrophobic BAs in the NASH-HCC model mice by a 2% cholestyramine feeding significantly prevented HCC development. The gut microbiota alterations were closely correlated with altered BA levels in liver and feces. HFD-induced inflammation inhibited key BA transporters, resulting in sustained increases in intrahepatic BA concentrations. Our study also showed a significantly increased cell proliferation in BA treated normal human hepatic cell lines and a down-regulated expression of tumor suppressor gene CEBPα in TCDCA treated HepG2 cell line, suggesting that several hydrophobic BAs may collaboratively promote liver carcinogenesis. PMID:27273788

Reward sensitivity modulates brain activity in the prefrontal cortex, ACC and striatum during task switching.

PubMed

Fuentes-Claramonte, Paola; Ávila, César; Rodríguez-Pujadas, Aina; Ventura-Campos, Noelia; Bustamante, Juan C; Costumero, Víctor; Rosell-Negre, Patricia; Barrós-Loscertales, Alfonso

2015-01-01

Current perspectives on cognitive control acknowledge that individual differences in motivational dispositions may modulate cognitive processes in the absence of reward contingencies. This work aimed to study the relationship between individual differences in Behavioral Activation System (BAS) sensitivity and the neural underpinnings involved in processing a switching cue in a task-switching paradigm. BAS sensitivity was hypothesized to modulate brain activity in frontal regions, ACC and the striatum. Twenty-eight healthy participants underwent fMRI while performing a switching task, which elicited activity in fronto-striatal regions during the processing of the switch cue. BAS sensitivity was negatively associated with activity in the lateral prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex and the ventral striatum. Combined with previous results, our data indicate that BAS sensitivity modulates the neurocognitive processes involved in task switching in a complex manner depending on task demands. Therefore, individual differences in motivational dispositions may influence cognitive processing in the absence of reward contingencies.

Reward Sensitivity Modulates Brain Activity in the Prefrontal Cortex, ACC and Striatum during Task Switching

PubMed Central

Fuentes-Claramonte, Paola; Ávila, César; Rodríguez-Pujadas, Aina; Ventura-Campos, Noelia; Bustamante, Juan C.; Costumero, Víctor; Rosell-Negre, Patricia; Barrós-Loscertales, Alfonso

2015-01-01

Current perspectives on cognitive control acknowledge that individual differences in motivational dispositions may modulate cognitive processes in the absence of reward contingencies. This work aimed to study the relationship between individual differences in Behavioral Activation System (BAS) sensitivity and the neural underpinnings involved in processing a switching cue in a task-switching paradigm. BAS sensitivity was hypothesized to modulate brain activity in frontal regions, ACC and the striatum. Twenty-eight healthy participants underwent fMRI while performing a switching task, which elicited activity in fronto-striatal regions during the processing of the switch cue. BAS sensitivity was negatively associated with activity in the lateral prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex and the ventral striatum. Combined with previous results, our data indicate that BAS sensitivity modulates the neurocognitive processes involved in task switching in a complex manner depending on task demands. Therefore, individual differences in motivational dispositions may influence cognitive processing in the absence of reward contingencies. PMID:25875640

Evaluation of the sensitivity and fading characteristics of an image plate system for x-ray diagnostics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meadowcroft, A. L.; Bentley, C. D.; Stott, E. N.

2008-11-01

Image plates (IPs) are a reusable recording media capable of detecting ionizing radiation, used to diagnose x-ray emission from laser-plasma experiments. Due to their superior performance characteristics in x-ray applications [C. C. Bradford, W. W. Peppler, and J. T. Dobbins III, Med. Phys. 26, 27 (1999) and J. Digit. Imaging. 12, 54 (1999)], the Fuji Biological Analysis System (BAS) IPs are fielded on x-ray diagnostics for the HELEN laser by the Plasma Physics Department at AWE. The sensitivities of the Fuji BAS IPs have been absolutely calibrated for absolute measurements of x-ray intensity in the energy range of 0-100 keV. In addition, the Fuji BAS IP fading as a function of time was investigated. We report on the characterization of three Fuji BAS IP responses to x-rays using a radioactive source, and discrete x-ray line energies generated by the Excalibur soft x-ray facility and the Defense Radiological Standards Centre filter-fluorescer hard x-ray system at AWE.

A model of BIS/BAS sensitivity, emotion regulation difficulties, and depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms in relation to sleep quality.

PubMed

Markarian, Shaunt A; Pickett, Scott M; Deveson, Danielle F; Kanona, Brenda B

2013-11-30

Recent research has indicated that interactions between behavioral inhibition system (BIS)/behavioral activation system (BAS) sensitivity and emotion regulation (ER) difficulties increases risk for psychopathology. Considering sleep quality (SQ) has been linked to emotion regulation difficulties (ERD) and psychopathology, further investigation of a possible mechanism is needed. The current study examined associations between BIS/BAS sensitivity, ERD, and SQ to depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms in an undergraduate sample (n=459). Positive relationships between BIS sensitivity and both ERD and stress symptoms, and negative relationships between BAS-reward sensitivity and both ERD and depression symptoms were observed. Furthermore, ERD were positively related to depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms. Succeeding analyses revealed differential relationships between ERD and depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms among good quality and poor quality sleepers. The findings are discussed within the context of personality dimensions and self-regulatory mechanisms, along with implications for the treatment of depression, anxiety and sleep difficulties. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Gas-pressure chemical vapor transport growth of millimeter-sized c-BAs single crystals with moderate thermal conductivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xing, Jie; Glaser, Evan R.; Song, Bai; Culbertson, James C.; Freitas, Jaime A.; Duncan, Ryan A.; Nelson, Keith A.; Chen, Gang; Ni, Ni

2018-06-01

We have grown c-BAs single crystals up to 1000 μm size by the chemical vapor transport (CVT) technique using combined As and I2 transport agents with the As:I ratio of 1:3 under gas pressures of up to 35 atm. Raman spectroscopy revealed a very sharp (˜2.4 cm-1) P1 phonon mode and an interesting splitting behavior of P1 from detailed polarization studies. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) experiments revealed no evidence for EPR active growth-related defects under the experimental resolution. Finally, a moderate thermal conductivity value of ˜132 W/m-K was obtained using a transient thermal grating technique. These results suggest that although the high As gas vapor pressure environment in CVT growth can increase the transport rate of c-BAs significantly, it may not be efficient in reducing the defects and enhancing the thermal conductivity in c-BAs significantly.

Generalized Chirp Scaling Combined with Baseband Azimuth Scaling Algorithm for Large Bandwidth Sliding Spotlight SAR Imaging

PubMed Central

Yi, Tianzhu; He, Zhihua; He, Feng; Dong, Zhen; Wu, Manqing

2017-01-01

This paper presents an efficient and precise imaging algorithm for the large bandwidth sliding spotlight synthetic aperture radar (SAR). The existing sub-aperture processing method based on the baseband azimuth scaling (BAS) algorithm cannot cope with the high order phase coupling along the range and azimuth dimensions. This coupling problem causes defocusing along the range and azimuth dimensions. This paper proposes a generalized chirp scaling (GCS)-BAS processing algorithm, which is based on the GCS algorithm. It successfully mitigates the deep focus along the range dimension of a sub-aperture of the large bandwidth sliding spotlight SAR, as well as high order phase coupling along the range and azimuth dimensions. Additionally, the azimuth focusing can be achieved by this azimuth scaling method. Simulation results demonstrate the ability of the GCS-BAS algorithm to process the large bandwidth sliding spotlight SAR data. It is proven that great improvements of the focus depth and imaging accuracy are obtained via the GCS-BAS algorithm. PMID:28555057

Effects of Processing Conditions During Manufacture on Retronasal-Aroma Compounds from a Milk Coffee Drink.

PubMed

Ikeda, Michio; Akiyama, Masayuki; Hirano, Yuta; Miyazi, Kazuhiro; Kono, Masaya; Imayoshi, Yuriko; Iwabuchi, Hisakatsu; Onodera, Takeshi; Toko, Kiyoshi

2018-03-01

To develop a ready-to-drink (RTD) milk coffee retaining the original coffee flavor, the effects of processing conditions during manufacture on retronasal-arma (RA) compounds from the milk coffee were investigated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry using an RA simulator (RAS). Thirteen of 46 detected compounds in the RAS effluent (RAS compounds) decreased significantly following pH adjustment of coffee (from pH 5.1 to 6.8) and 5 compounds increased. RAS compounds from coffee tended to decrease through the pH adjustment and subsequent sterilization. Significantly higher amounts of 13 RAS compounds were released from the milk coffee produced using a blending-after-sterilization (BAS) process without the pH adjustment than from that using a blending-before-sterilization (BBS) process with the pH adjustment. In BAS-processed milk coffee, significantly lower amounts of 8 high-volatility compounds and 1H-pyrrole were released from coffee containing infusion-sterilized (INF) milk than from coffee containing plate-sterilized (PLT) milk, whereas 3 low-volatility compounds were released significantly more from coffee using PLT milk. Principal component analysis revealed that the effect of the manufacturing process (BAS, BBS, or homemade (blending unsterilized coffee without pH adjustment with sterilized milk)) on milk coffee volatiles was larger than that of the sterilization method (INF or PLT) for milk, and that the sterilization method could result in different RAS volatile characteristics in BAS and homemade processes. In conclusion, a BAS process was found to be superior to a BBS process for the manufacture of an RTD milk coffee that retains volatile characteristics similar to that of a homemade milk coffee. Ready-to-drink (RTD) milk coffee manufactured using the conventional blending-before-sterilization process does not retain its original coffee flavor due to pH adjustment of the coffee during the process. The new blending-after-sterilization (BAS) process enabled the production of RTD milk coffee whose volatiles are closer to that of homemade milk coffee, as demonstrated by the results of RAS-GC-MS analysis. The BAS process has already been applied to the manufacture of RTD milk coffees in Japan. © 2018 Institute of Food Technologists®.

Accelerated iterative beam angle selection in IMRT

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

Bangert, Mark, E-mail: m.bangert@dkfz.de; Unkelbach, Jan

2016-03-15

Purpose: Iterative methods for beam angle selection (BAS) for intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) planning sequentially construct a beneficial ensemble of beam directions. In a naïve implementation, the nth beam is selected by adding beam orientations one-by-one from a discrete set of candidates to an existing ensemble of (n − 1) beams. The best beam orientation is identified in a time consuming process by solving the fluence map optimization (FMO) problem for every candidate beam and selecting the beam that yields the largest improvement to the objective function value. This paper evaluates two alternative methods to accelerate iterative BAS based onmore » surrogates for the FMO objective function value. Methods: We suggest to select candidate beams not based on the FMO objective function value after convergence but (1) based on the objective function value after five FMO iterations of a gradient based algorithm and (2) based on a projected gradient of the FMO problem in the first iteration. The performance of the objective function surrogates is evaluated based on the resulting objective function values and dose statistics in a treatment planning study comprising three intracranial, three pancreas, and three prostate cases. Furthermore, iterative BAS is evaluated for an application in which a small number of noncoplanar beams complement a set of coplanar beam orientations. This scenario is of practical interest as noncoplanar setups may require additional attention of the treatment personnel for every couch rotation. Results: Iterative BAS relying on objective function surrogates yields similar results compared to naïve BAS with regard to the objective function values and dose statistics. At the same time, early stopping of the FMO and using the projected gradient during the first iteration enable reductions in computation time by approximately one to two orders of magnitude. With regard to the clinical delivery of noncoplanar IMRT treatments, we could show that optimized beam ensembles using only a few noncoplanar beam orientations often approach the plan quality of fully noncoplanar ensembles. Conclusions: We conclude that iterative BAS in combination with objective function surrogates can be a viable option to implement automated BAS at clinically acceptable computation times.« less

[Multimodal document management in radiotherapy].

PubMed

Fahrner, H; Kirrmann, S; Röhner, F; Schmucker, M; Hall, M; Heinemann, F

2013-12-01

After incorporating treatment planning and the organisational model of treatment planning in the operating schedule system (BAS, "Betriebsablaufsystem"), complete document qualities were embedded in the digital environment. The aim of this project was to integrate all documents independent of their source (paper-bound or digital) and to make content from the BAS available in a structured manner. As many workflow steps as possible should be automated, e.g. assigning a document to a patient in the BAS. Additionally it must be guaranteed that at all times it could be traced who, when, how and from which source documents were imported into the departmental system. Furthermore work procedures should be changed that the documentation conducted either directly in the departmental system or from external systems can be incorporated digitally and paper document can be completely avoided (e.g. documents such as treatment certificate, treatment plans or documentation). It was a further aim, if possible, to automate the removal of paper documents from the departmental work flow, or even to make such paper documents superfluous. In this way patient letters for follow-up appointments should automatically generated from the BAS. Similarly patient record extracts in the form of PDF files should be enabled, e.g. for controlling purposes. The available document qualities were analysed in detail by a multidisciplinary working group (BAS-AG) and after this examination and assessment of the possibility of modelling in our departmental workflow (BAS) they were transcribed into a flow diagram. The gathered specifications were implemented in a test environment by the clinical and administrative IT group of the department of radiation oncology and subsequent to a detailed analysis introduced into clinical routine. The department has succeeded under the conditions of the aforementioned criteria to embed all relevant documents in the departmental workflow via continuous processes. Since the completion of the concepts and the implementation in our test environment 15,000 documents were introduced into the departmental workflow following routine approval. Furthermore approximately 5000 appointment letters for patient aftercare per year were automatically generated by the BAS. In addition patient record extracts in the form of PDF files for the medical services of the healthcare insurer can be generated.

Accelerated iterative beam angle selection in IMRT.

PubMed

Bangert, Mark; Unkelbach, Jan

2016-03-01

Iterative methods for beam angle selection (BAS) for intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) planning sequentially construct a beneficial ensemble of beam directions. In a naïve implementation, the nth beam is selected by adding beam orientations one-by-one from a discrete set of candidates to an existing ensemble of (n - 1) beams. The best beam orientation is identified in a time consuming process by solving the fluence map optimization (FMO) problem for every candidate beam and selecting the beam that yields the largest improvement to the objective function value. This paper evaluates two alternative methods to accelerate iterative BAS based on surrogates for the FMO objective function value. We suggest to select candidate beams not based on the FMO objective function value after convergence but (1) based on the objective function value after five FMO iterations of a gradient based algorithm and (2) based on a projected gradient of the FMO problem in the first iteration. The performance of the objective function surrogates is evaluated based on the resulting objective function values and dose statistics in a treatment planning study comprising three intracranial, three pancreas, and three prostate cases. Furthermore, iterative BAS is evaluated for an application in which a small number of noncoplanar beams complement a set of coplanar beam orientations. This scenario is of practical interest as noncoplanar setups may require additional attention of the treatment personnel for every couch rotation. Iterative BAS relying on objective function surrogates yields similar results compared to naïve BAS with regard to the objective function values and dose statistics. At the same time, early stopping of the FMO and using the projected gradient during the first iteration enable reductions in computation time by approximately one to two orders of magnitude. With regard to the clinical delivery of noncoplanar IMRT treatments, we could show that optimized beam ensembles using only a few noncoplanar beam orientations often approach the plan quality of fully noncoplanar ensembles. We conclude that iterative BAS in combination with objective function surrogates can be a viable option to implement automated BAS at clinically acceptable computation times.

Influence of water quench cooling on degassing and aroma stability of roasted coffee.

PubMed

Baggenstoss, Juerg; Poisson, Luigi; Luethi, Regina; Perren, Rainer; Escher, Felix

2007-08-08

Coffee roasting experiments with air cooling versus water quench cooling were carried out on laboratory scale with a fluidized-bed hot air roasting system (200 g batch size) and on production scale with a rotating bowl roaster (320 kg batch size). Two series of coffees with different water contents resulted, which were stored at 25 degrees C under normal atmospheric conditions. Carbon dioxide desorption was followed and stability of selected aroma compounds was tested with headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS) and stable isotope labeled compounds as internal standards. Degassing is faster in water-quenched coffees with higher moisture content, but pore size distribution in the different coffee samples did not correlate with degassing behavior. Bean firmness, which increases with increasing moisture content, might have an influence on degassing. Air- and water-quenched coffees exhibit similar stability of most aroma compounds despite different degassing behavior. However, evolution of dimethyl trisulfide was different in coffees with increased water content. This suggests higher thiol oxidation rates, a factor that is cited to be related to a faster loss of freshness attributes.

Structural, electronic, mechanical, thermal and optical properties of B(P,As)1-xNx; (x = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1) alloys and hardness of B(P,As) under compression using DFT calculations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Viswanathan, E.; Sundareswari, M.; Jayalakshmi, D. S.; Manjula, M.; Krishnaveni, S.

2017-09-01

First principles calculations are carried out in order to analyze the structural, electronic, mechanical, thermal and optical properties of BP and BAs compounds by ternary alloying with nitrogen namely B(P,As)1-xNx (x = 0.25, 0.5, 0.75) alloys at ambient condition. Thereby we report the mechanical and thermal properties of B(P,As)1-xNx (x = 0.25, 0.5, 0.75) alloys namely bulk modulus, shear modulus, Young's modulus, hardness, ductile-brittle nature, elastic wave velocity, Debye temperature, melting point, etc.; optical properties of B(P)1-xNx (x = 0.25, 0.5, 0.75) and B(As)1-xNx (x = 0.25, 0.75) alloys namely the dielectric function of real and imaginary part, refractive index, extinction coefficient and reflectivity and the hardness profile of the parent compounds BP and BAs under compression. The charge density plot, density of states histograms and band structures are plotted and discussed for all the ternary alloys of the present study. The calculated results agree very well with the available literature. Analysis of the present study reveals that the ternary alloy combinations namely BP.25N.75 and BAs.25N.75 could be superhard materials; hardness of BP and BAs increases with compression.

An adaptive maneuvering logic computer program for the simulation of one-on-one air-to-air combat. Volume 1: General description

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burgin, G. H.; Fogel, L. J.; Phelps, J. P.

1975-01-01

A technique for computer simulation of air combat is described. Volume 1 decribes the computer program and its development in general terms. Two versions of the program exist. Both incorporate a logic for selecting and executing air combat maneuvers with performance models of specific fighter aircraft. In the batch processing version the flight paths of two aircraft engaged in interactive aerial combat and controlled by the same logic are computed. The realtime version permits human pilots to fly air-to-air combat against the adaptive maneuvering logic (AML) in Langley Differential Maneuvering Simulator (DMS). Volume 2 consists of a detailed description of the computer programs.

Catalytic wet air oxidation of bisphenol A solution in a batch-recycle trickle-bed reactor over titanate nanotube-based catalysts.

PubMed

Kaplan, Renata; Erjavec, Boštjan; Senila, Marin; Pintar, Albin

2014-10-01

Catalytic wet air oxidation (CWAO) is classified as an advanced oxidation process, which proved to be highly efficient for the removal of emerging organic pollutant bisphenol A (BPA) from water. In this study, BPA was successfully removed in a batch-recycle trickle-bed reactor over bare titanate nanotube-based catalysts at very short space time of 0.6 min gCAT g(-1). The as-prepared titanate nanotubes, which underwent heat treatment at 600 °C, showed high activity for the removal of aqueous BPA. Liquid-phase recycling (5- or 10-fold recycle) enabled complete BPA conversion already at 200 °C, together with high conversion of total organic carbon (TOC), i.e., 73 and 98 %, respectively. The catalyst was chemically stable in the given range of operating conditions for 189 h on stream.

77 FR 72815 - Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-06

... (GNIS). The BAS universe and mailing materials vary depending both upon the needs of the Census Bureau... decennial census. There are less than 40,000 governments in the universe each year. In all other years, the BAS reporting universe includes all legally defined federally recognized American Indian and Alaska...

Bridge approach slabs for Missouri DOT field evaluation of alternative and cost efficient bridge approach slabs.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-05-01

Based on a recent study on cost efficient alternative bridge approach slab (BAS) designs (Thiagarajan et : al. 2010) has recommended three new BAS designs for possible implementation by MoDOT namely a) 20 feet cast-inplace : slab with sleeper slab (C...

Business Administration Scale for Family Child Care, BAS

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Talan, Teri N.; Bloom, Paula Jorde

2009-01-01

The "BAS for Family Child Care" is the first valid and reliable tool for measuring and improving the overall quality of business and professional practices in family child care settings. It is applicable for multiple uses, including program self-improvement, technical assistance and monitoring, training, research and evaluation, and public…

Business Administration Scale for Family Child Care (BAS). Second Edition

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Talan, Teri N.; Bloom, Paula Jorde

2018-01-01

The "Business Administration Scale for Family Child Care" (BAS) is the first valid and reliable tool for measuring and improving the overall quality of business and professional practices in family child care settings. It is applicable for multiple uses, including program self-improvement, technical assistance and monitoring, training,…

77 FR 50677 - Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request; Boundary and Annexation Survey

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-22

..., preparing population estimates, and supporting other statistical programs of the Census Bureau, and the... survey. The typical BAS package contains: 1. Introductory letter from the Director of the Census Bureau... Census Bureau. The typical Digital BAS package contains: 1. Introductory letter from the Director of the...

Computing Cooling Flows in Turbines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gauntner, J.

1986-01-01

Algorithm developed for calculating both quantity of compressor bleed flow required to cool turbine and resulting decrease in efficiency due to cooling air injected into gas stream. Program intended for use with axial-flow, air-breathing, jet-propulsion engines with variety of airfoil-cooling configurations. Algorithm results compared extremely well with figures given by major engine manufacturers for given bulk-metal temperatures and cooling configurations. Program written in FORTRAN IV for batch execution.

Use of the British Ability Scales for Assessing Australian Children with Learning Difficulties.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boland, L.; And Others

1988-01-01

Four studies involving 172 Australian children (133 males and 39 females) were conducted to investigate the usefulness of the British Ability Scales (BAS) as an alternative to the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R). The BAS was found to be a suitable alternative to the WISC-R. (SLD)

Exploring a Paperless Business Administrative System (BAS) Implementation in a K-12 School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Issa, Marwan M.

2011-01-01

The primary purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate how a paperless BAS can affect the overall performance of a school's administrative activities. The research included direct observation, survey questionnaires, document review, and both structured and unstructured interviews. The selected school, a K-12 charter school, was an ideal…

Calibration of Fuji BAS-SR type imaging plate as high spatial resolution x-ray radiography recorder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Ji; Zheng, Jianhua; Zhang, Xing; Chen, Li; Wei, Minxi

2017-05-01

Image Plates as x-ray recorder have advantages including reusable, high dynamic range, large active area, and so on. In this work, Fuji BAS-SR type image plate combined with BAS-5000 scanner is calibrated. The fade rates of Image Plates has been measured using x-ray diffractometric in different room temperature; the spectral response of Image Plates has been measured using 241Am radioactive sealed source and fitting with linear model; the spatial resolution of Image Plates has been measured using micro-focus x-ray tube. The results show that Image Plates has an exponent decade curve and double absorption edge response curve. The spatial resolution of Image Plates with 25μ/50μ scanner resolution is 6.5lp/mm, 11.9lp/mm respectively and gold grid radiography is collected with 80lp/mm spatial resolution using SR-type Image Plates. BAS-SR type Image Plates can do high spatial resolution and quantitative radiographic works. It can be widely used in High energy density physics (HEDP), inertial confinement fusion (ICF) and laboratory astronomy physics.

Synchronization and Inter-Layer Interactions of Noise-Driven Neural Networks

PubMed Central

Yuniati, Anis; Mai, Te-Lun; Chen, Chi-Ming

2017-01-01

In this study, we used the Hodgkin-Huxley (HH) model of neurons to investigate the phase diagram of a developing single-layer neural network and that of a network consisting of two weakly coupled neural layers. These networks are noise driven and learn through the spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) or the inverse STDP rules. We described how these networks transited from a non-synchronous background activity state (BAS) to a synchronous firing state (SFS) by varying the network connectivity and the learning efficacy. In particular, we studied the interaction between a SFS layer and a BAS layer, and investigated how synchronous firing dynamics was induced in the BAS layer. We further investigated the effect of the inter-layer interaction on a BAS to SFS repair mechanism by considering three types of neuron positioning (random, grid, and lognormal distributions) and two types of inter-layer connections (random and preferential connections). Among these scenarios, we concluded that the repair mechanism has the largest effect for a network with the lognormal neuron positioning and the preferential inter-layer connections. PMID:28197088

Digital relief generation from 3D models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Meili; Sun, Yu; Zhang, Hongming; Qian, Kun; Chang, Jian; He, Dongjian

2016-09-01

It is difficult to extend image-based relief generation to high-relief generation, as the images contain insufficient height information. To generate reliefs from three-dimensional (3D) models, it is necessary to extract the height fields from the model, but this can only generate bas-reliefs. To overcome this problem, an efficient method is proposed to generate bas-reliefs and high-reliefs directly from 3D meshes. To produce relief features that are visually appropriate, the 3D meshes are first scaled. 3D unsharp masking is used to enhance the visual features in the 3D mesh, and average smoothing and Laplacian smoothing are implemented to achieve better smoothing results. A nonlinear variable scaling scheme is then employed to generate the final bas-reliefs and high-reliefs. Using the proposed method, relief models can be generated from arbitrary viewing positions with different gestures and combinations of multiple 3D models. The generated relief models can be printed by 3D printers. The proposed method provides a means of generating both high-reliefs and bas-reliefs in an efficient and effective way under the appropriate scaling factors.

Synchronization and Inter-Layer Interactions of Noise-Driven Neural Networks.

PubMed

Yuniati, Anis; Mai, Te-Lun; Chen, Chi-Ming

2017-01-01

In this study, we used the Hodgkin-Huxley (HH) model of neurons to investigate the phase diagram of a developing single-layer neural network and that of a network consisting of two weakly coupled neural layers. These networks are noise driven and learn through the spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) or the inverse STDP rules. We described how these networks transited from a non-synchronous background activity state (BAS) to a synchronous firing state (SFS) by varying the network connectivity and the learning efficacy. In particular, we studied the interaction between a SFS layer and a BAS layer, and investigated how synchronous firing dynamics was induced in the BAS layer. We further investigated the effect of the inter-layer interaction on a BAS to SFS repair mechanism by considering three types of neuron positioning (random, grid, and lognormal distributions) and two types of inter-layer connections (random and preferential connections). Among these scenarios, we concluded that the repair mechanism has the largest effect for a network with the lognormal neuron positioning and the preferential inter-layer connections.

Lactoferricin B Inhibits the Phosphorylation of the Two-Component System Response Regulators BasR and CreB*

PubMed Central

Ho, Yu-Hsuan; Sung, Tzu-Cheng; Chen, Chien-Sheng

2012-01-01

Natural antimicrobial peptides provide fundamental protection for multicellular organisms from microbes, such as Lactoferricin B (Lfcin B). Many studies have shown that Lfcin B penetrates the cell membrane and has intracellular activities. To elucidate the intracellular behavior of Lfcin B, we first used Escherichia coli K12 proteome chips to identify the intracellular targets of Lfcin B. The results showed that Lfcin B binds to two response regulators, BasR and CreB, of the two-component system. For further analysis, we conducted several in vitro and in vivo experiments and utilized bioinformatics methods. The electrophoretic mobility shift assays and kinase assays indicate that Lfcin B inhibits the phosphorylation of the response regulators (BasR and CreB) and their cognate sensor kinases (BasS and CreC). Antibacterial assays showed that Lfcin B reduced E. coli's tolerance to environmental stimuli, such as excessive ferric ions and minimal medium conditions. This is the first study to show that an antimicrobial peptide inhibits the growth of bacteria by influencing the phosphorylation of a two-component system directly. PMID:22138548

Lactoferricin B inhibits the phosphorylation of the two-component system response regulators BasR and CreB.

PubMed

Ho, Yu-Hsuan; Sung, Tzu-Cheng; Chen, Chien-Sheng

2012-04-01

Natural antimicrobial peptides provide fundamental protection for multicellular organisms from microbes, such as Lactoferricin B (Lfcin B). Many studies have shown that Lfcin B penetrates the cell membrane and has intracellular activities. To elucidate the intracellular behavior of Lfcin B, we first used Escherichia coli K12 proteome chips to identify the intracellular targets of Lfcin B. The results showed that Lfcin B binds to two response regulators, BasR and CreB, of the two-component system. For further analysis, we conducted several in vitro and in vivo experiments and utilized bioinformatics methods. The electrophoretic mobility shift assays and kinase assays indicate that Lfcin B inhibits the phosphorylation of the response regulators (BasR and CreB) and their cognate sensor kinases (BasS and CreC). Antibacterial assays showed that Lfcin B reduced E. coli's tolerance to environmental stimuli, such as excessive ferric ions and minimal medium conditions. This is the first study to show that an antimicrobial peptide inhibits the growth of bacteria by influencing the phosphorylation of a two-component system directly.

Evaluation of the sensitivity and fading characteristics of an image plate system for x-ray diagnostics

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

Meadowcroft, A. L.; Bentley, C. D.; Stott, E. N.

2008-11-15

Image plates (IPs) are a reusable recording media capable of detecting ionizing radiation, used to diagnose x-ray emission from laser-plasma experiments. Due to their superior performance characteristics in x-ray applications [C. C. Bradford, W. W. Peppler, and J. T. Dobbins III, Med. Phys. 26, 27 (1999) and J. Digit. Imaging. 12, 54 (1999)], the Fuji Biological Analysis System (BAS) IPs are fielded on x-ray diagnostics for the HELEN laser by the Plasma Physics Department at AWE. The sensitivities of the Fuji BAS IPs have been absolutely calibrated for absolute measurements of x-ray intensity in the energy range of 0-100 keV.more » In addition, the Fuji BAS IP fading as a function of time was investigated. We report on the characterization of three Fuji BAS IP responses to x-rays using a radioactive source, and discrete x-ray line energies generated by the Excalibur soft x-ray facility and the Defense Radiological Standards Centre filter-fluorescer hard x-ray system at AWE.« less

Simulation model of the F/A-18 high angle-of-attack research vehicle utilized for the design of advanced control laws

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Strickland, Mark E.; Bundick, W. Thomas; Messina, Michael D.; Hoffler, Keith D.; Carzoo, Susan W.; Yeager, Jessie C.; Beissner, Fred L., Jr.

1996-01-01

The 'f18harv' six degree-of-freedom nonlinear batch simulation used to support research in advanced control laws and flight dynamics issues as part of NASA's High Alpha Technology Program is described in this report. This simulation models an F/A-18 airplane modified to incorporate a multi-axis thrust-vectoring system for augmented pitch and yaw control power and actuated forebody strakes for enhanced aerodynamic yaw control power. The modified configuration is known as the High Alpha Research Vehicle (HARV). The 'f18harv' simulation was an outgrowth of the 'f18bas' simulation which modeled the basic F/A-18 with a preliminary version of a thrust-vectoring system designed for the HARV. The preliminary version consisted of two thrust-vectoring vanes per engine nozzle compared with the three vanes per engine actually employed on the F/A-18 HARV. The modeled flight envelope is extensive in that the aerodynamic database covers an angle-of-attack range of -10 degrees to +90 degrees, sideslip range of -20 degrees to +20 degrees, a Mach Number range between 0.0 and 2.0, and an altitude range between 0 and 60,000 feet.

[Study on Monosaccharide Compositions of Polysaccharide in Dendrobium Stems of Different Resources by PMP-HPCE].

PubMed

Chen, Nai-dong; Meng, Yun-fei; Yao, Hou-jun; Cao, Cai-yun; Chen, Chen; Li, Jun

2015-08-01

To establish a PMP-HPCE method for comparing the monosaccharides of polysaccharide in tissue-cultured and wild Dedrobium huoshanese and Dedrobium moniliforme as well as wild Dedrobium henanese, in order to investigate the similarities of their bioactive components. The PMP-monosaccharides of polysaccharide from the five investigated Dedrobium samples were separated by HPCE on a fused silica capillary column(100 cm x 50 µm) at 25 °C with 350 mmol/L BAS (adjusted to pH 10 with 1.0 mol/L NaOH) as running buffer for 34 min. The applied voltage was 20 kV and the detection wavelength was set at 250 nm. Total six monosaccharides including xylose, glucose, mannose, galactose, galacturonic acid and ribose were detected in the five Dendrobiurms samples and the similarity coefficients between the ten batches of the same Dendrobium species were all above 0. 98,while remarkable dissimilarity were exhibited among species and different resources. PMP-HPCE technique combined with chemometrics is simple, convenient, precise, reproducible and proved to be an effective strategy for identifying the species and origins, especially in the quality assessment of Dendrobium stems.

Hypocholesterolemic effect of emodin by simultaneous determination of in vitro and in vivo bile salts binding.

PubMed

Wang, Jiaoying; Ji, Jun; Song, Zijing; Zhang, Wenjun; He, Xin; Li, Fei; Zhang, Chunfeng; Guo, Changrun; Wang, Chongzhi; Yuan, Chunsu

2016-04-01

Emodin is an active anthraquinone derivative from Rheum palmatum and some other Chinese herbs and it is traditionally used for treating a variety of diseases. In this study, we investigated the hypocholesterolemic effects and mechanism of emodin on hypercholesterolemia rats. In vitro, capability of emodin binding to sodium deoxycholate which is one kind of bile salts (BAs) was evaluated by detection of surplus content of sodium deoxycholate. In vivo, hypocholesterolemic effects were assessed by determining total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level of serum and TC, TG level of the liver. Oil red O staining was employed to determine lipid droplet of the liver. The mechanism was explored by BAs in feces, the liver and small intestine. Furthermore, cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (CYP7A1) activity was measured to evaluate cholesterol's transforming to BAs. The results indicated that TC level of emodin group apparently decreased comparing with model group (p<0.05). Emodin could bind to BAs both in vivo (p<0.05) and in vitro. CYP7A1 activity in emodin group apparently increased comparing with model group (p<0.05). Data suggested that emodin had the potential value for treatment of hypercholesterolemia. The underlying mechanism is probably associated with binding capability to BAs and subsequent increasing expression of CYP7A1. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Do Losses Loom Larger for Children than Adults?

PubMed Central

Luking, Katherine R.; Pagliaccio, David; Luby, Joan L.; Barch, Deanna M.

2015-01-01

The large impact of loss of reward on behavior has been well documented in adult populations. However, whether responsiveness to loss relative to gain is similarly elevated in child versus adult populations remains unclear. It is also unclear whether relations between incentive behaviors and self-reported reward/punishment sensitivity are similar within different developmental stages. To investigate these questions, 7–10-year-old children (N=70) and young adults (N=70) completed the Behavioral Inhibition System/Behavioral Activation System (BIS/BAS) Scale, along with two probabilistic incentive tasks assessing gain approach and loss avoidance behavior. BIS/BAS subscales were calculated per Pagliaccio, Luking et al. 2015, which established an age invariant model of the BIS/BAS. Bias towards responses more frequently followed by gain feedback and away from responses more frequently followed by loss feedback, approach and avoidance behavior respectively, were quantified via signal detection statistics. Gain approach behavior did not differ across age groups, however children exhibited significantly elevated loss avoidance relative to adults. Children also showed greater reductions in accuracy and slower reaction times specifically following loss feedback relative to adults. Interestingly, despite age group differences in loss avoidance behavior, relations between self-report measures and approach/avoidance behaviors were similar across age groups. Participants reporting elevated motivation (BAS Drive) showed both elevated gain approach and elevated loss avoidance, with both types of behavior predicting unique variance in BAS Drive. Results highlight the often-neglected developmental and motivational roles of responsiveness to loss of reward. PMID:26524484

Synthesis of the 3-sulfates of N-acetylcysteine conjugated bile acids (BA-NACs) and their transient formation from BA-NACs and subsequent hydrolysis by a rat liver cytosolic fraction as shown by liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Mitamura, Kuniko; Sakai, Toshihiro; Nakai, Risa; Wakamiya, Tateaki; Iida, Takashi; Hofmann, Alan F; Ikegawa, Shigeo

2011-06-01

Previous work from this laboratory has reported the chemical synthesis of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) conjugates of natural bile acids (BAs) and shown that such novel conjugates can be formed in vivo in rats to which NAC has been administered. The subsequent fate of such novel conjugates is not known. One possible biotransformation is sulfation, a major pathway for BAs N-acylamidates in patients with cholestatic liver disease. Here, we report the chemical synthesis of the 3-sulfates of the S-acyl NAC conjugates of five natural BAs (cholic, chenodeoxycholic, deoxycholic, ursodeoxycholic, and lithocholic). We also measured the sulfation of N-acetylcysteine-natural bile acid (BA-NAC) conjugates when they were incubated with a rat liver cytosolic fraction. The chemical structures of the BA-NAC 3-sulfates were confirmed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance, as well as by means of electrospray ionization-linear ion trap mass spectrometry with negative-ion detection. Upon collision-induced dissociation of singly and doubly charged deprotonated molecules, structurally informative product ions were observed. Using a triple-stage quadrupole instrument, selected reaction monitoring analyses by monitoring characteristic transition ions allowed the achievement of a highly sensitive and specific assay. When BA-NACs were incubated with a rat liver cytosolic fraction to which 3'-phosphoadenosine 5'-phosphosulfate was added, sulfation occurred, but the dominant reaction was hydrolysis of the S-acyl linkage to form the unconjugated BAs. Subsequent sulfation occurred at C-3 on the unconjugated BAs that had been formed from the BA-NACs. Such sulfation was proportional to the hydrophobicity of the unconjugated bile acid. Thus, NAC conjugates of BAs as well as their C-3 sulfates if formed in vivo are rapidly hydrolyzed by cytosolic enzymes.

Prone position improves lung mechanical behavior and enhances gas exchange efficiency in mechanically ventilated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients.

PubMed

Mentzelopoulos, Spyros D; Zakynthinos, Spyros G; Roussos, Charris; Tzoufi, Maria J; Michalopoulos, Argyris S

2003-06-01

Pronation might favorably affect respiratory system (rs) mechanics and function in volume-controlled, mode-ventilated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. We studied 10 COPD patients, initially positioned supine (baseline supine [supine(BAS)]) and then randomly and consecutively changed to protocol supine (supine(PROT)), semirecumbent, and prone positions. Rs mechanics and inspiratory work (W(I)) were assessed at baseline (0.6 L) (all postures) and sigh (1.2 L) (supine(BAS) excluded) tidal volume (V(T)) with rapid airway occlusion during constant-flow inflation. Hemodynamics and gas exchange were assessed in all postures. There were no complications. Prone positioning resulted in (a) increased dynamic-static chest wall (cw) elastance (at both V(Ts)) and improved oxygenation versus supine(BAS), supine(PROT), and semirecumbent, (b) decreased additional lung (L) resistance-elastance versus supine(PROT) and semirecumbent at sigh V(T), (c) decreased L-static elastance (at both V(Ts)) and improved CO(2) elimination versus supine(BAS) and supine(PROT), and (d) improved oxygenation versus all other postures. Semirecumbent positioning increased mainly additional cw-resistance versus supine(BAS) and supine(PROT) at baseline. V(T) W(I)-sub-component changes were consistent with changes in rs, cw, and L mechanical properties. Total rs-W(I) and hemodynamics were unaffected by posture change. After pronation, five patients were repositioned supine (supine(POSTPRO)). In supine(POSTPRO), static rs-L elastance were lower, and oxygenation was still improved versus supine(BAS). Pronation of mechanically ventilated COPD patients exhibits applicability and effectiveness and improves oxygenation and sigh-L mechanics versus semirecumbent ("gold standard") positioning. By assessing respiratory mechanics, inspiratory work, hemodynamics, and gas exchange, we showed that prone positioning of mechanically ventilated chronic obstructed pulmonary disease patients improves oxygenation and lung mechanics during sigh versus semirecumbent positioning. Furthermore, certain pronation-related benefits versus preprone-supine positioning (reduced lung elastance and improved oxygenation) are maintained in the postprone supine position.

An interventionist adherence scale for a specialized brief negotiation interview focused on treatment engagement for opioid use disorders.

PubMed

Pantalon, Michael V; Dziura, James; Li, Fang-Yong; Owens, Patricia H; O'Connor, Patrick G; D'Onofrio, Gail

2017-01-01

No psychometrically validated instrument for evaluating the extent to which interventionists correctly implement brief interventions designed to motivate treatment engagement for opioid use disorders has been reported in the literature. The objective of this study was to develop and examine the psychometric properties of the Brief Negotiation Interview (BNI) Adherence Scale for Opioid Use Disorders (BAS-O). In the context of a randomized controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of 3 models of emergency department care for opioid use disorders, the authors developed and subsequently examined the psychometric properties of the BAS-O, a 38-item scale that required raters to answer whether or not ("Yes" or "No") each of the critical actions of the BNI was correctly implemented by the research interventionist. BAS-O items pertained to the BNI's 4 steps: (1) Raise the Subject, (2) Provide Feedback, (3) Enhance Motivation, and (4) Negotiate and Advise. A total of 215 audio-recorded BNI and 88 control encounters were rated by 3 trained raters who were independent of the study team and blind to study hypotheses, treatment, and assignment. The results indicated the BAS-O has fair to excellent psychometric properties, in terms of good internal consistency, excellent interrater reliability, discriminant validity, and construct validity, and fair predictive validity. A 13-item, 2-factor solution accounted for nearly 80% of the variance, where factor 1 addressed "Autonomy and Planning" (7 items) and factor 2 addressed "Motivation and Problems" (6 items). However, predictive validity was found for only one of the BAS-O factor items (i.e., Telling patients that treatment will address a range of issues related to their opioid use disorder). This study suggests that the BAS-O is a psychometrically valid measure of adherence to the specialized BNI for motivating treatment engagement in patients with opioid use disorders, thus providing a brief (13-item), objective method of evaluating BNI skill performance.

Encapsulation of boswellic acid with β- and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin: Synthesis, characterization, in vitro drug release and molecular modelling studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tambe, Amruta; Pandita, Nancy; Kharkar, Prashant; Sahu, Niteshkumar

2018-02-01

Boswellic acids (BAs) are a group of pentacyclic triterpenes present in gum-resin of Boswellia serrata. They are well known for their anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, immunomodulatory and anti-tumor activity, but they have poor aqueous solubility and limited bioavailability. In order to enhance their aqueous solubility, inclusion complexes of BAs with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) were synthesized and their drug release profiles were studied. Molecular associations of β-CD and HP-β-CD with BAs were investigated by phase solubility studies. The stability constants were found to be 380.2 and 145.9 M-1 for BA: β-CD and BA: HP-β-CD inclusion complexes, respectively with AN- type curve. BA: β-CD and BA: HP-β-CD inclusion complexes were synthesized using kneading (KN), co-precipitation (CP) and solvent evaporation (SE) methods in 1:1 as well as 1:2 ratios. Further these were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometry, Powder X-ray Diffraction (P-XRD) and Differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) analysis. FTIR analysis showed shifting of frequencies in complexes as compared to CDs and BAs. P-XRD data obtained for BA: β-CD complexes synthesized by CP and SE methods showed amorphous pattern. Also, DSC analysis showed a change in thermal behaviour for synthesized complexes. In vitro drug release studies of BA: β-CD complexes showed enhanced release with 1:2 complexes than 1:1 complexes at pH 1.2 and pH 6.8. Similarly, drug release enhancement was observed more with BA: HP-β-CD complexes in 1:2 ratio than 1:1. To understand the interaction of BAs with CD cavity molecular modelling studies were performed which favored 1:2 complex formation over 1:1 complexes. The study thus highlights that CDs can be used for solubility and dissolution enhancement of BAs.

False Negative Rates of a Macrofoam-Swab Sampling Method with Low Surface Concentrations of Two Bacillus anthracis Surrogates via Real-Time PCR

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

Hutchison, Janine R.; Piepel, Gregory F.; Amidan, Brett G.

Surface sampling for Bacillus anthracis spores has traditionally relied on detection via bacterial cultivation methods. Although effective, this approach does not provide the level of organism specificity that can be gained through molecular techniques. False negative rates (FNR) and limits of detection (LOD) were determined for two B. anthracis surrogates with modified rapid viability-polymerase chain reaction (mRV-PCR) following macrofoam-swab sampling. This study was conducted in parallel with a previously reported study that analyzed spores using a plate-culture method. B. anthracis Sterne (BAS) or B. atrophaeus Nakamura (BG) spores were deposited onto four surface materials (glass, stainless steel, vinyl tile, andmore » plastic) at nine target concentrations (2 to 500 spores/coupon; 0.078 to 19.375 colony-forming units [CFU] per cm2). Mean FNR values for mRV-PCR analysis ranged from 0 to 0.917 for BAS and 0 to 0.875 for BG and increased as spore concentration decreased (over the concentrations investigated) for each surface material. FNRs based on mRV-PCR data were not statistically different for BAS and BG, but were significantly lower for glass than for vinyl tile. FNRs also tended to be lower for the mRV-PCR method compared to the culture method. The mRV-PCR LOD95 was lowest for glass (0.429 CFU/cm2 with BAS and 0.341 CFU/cm2 with BG) and highest for vinyl tile (0.919 CFU/cm2 with BAS and 0.917 CFU/cm2 with BG). These mRV-PCR LOD95 values were lower than the culture values (BAS: 0.678 to 1.023 CFU/cm2 and BG: 0.820 to 1.489 CFU/cm2). The FNR and LOD95 values reported in this work provide guidance for environmental sampling of Bacillus spores at low concentrations.« less

False Negative Rates of a Macrofoam-Swab Sampling Method with Low Surface Concentrations of Two Bacillus anthracis Surrogates via Real-Time PCR

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

Hutchison, Janine R.; Piepel, Gregory F.; Amidan, Brett G.

Surface sampling for Bacillus anthracis spores has traditionally relied on detection via bacterial cultivation methods. Although effective, this approach does not provide the level of organism specificity that can be gained through molecular techniques. False negative rates (FNR) and limits of detection (LOD) were determined for two B. anthracis surrogates with modified rapid viability-polymerase chain reaction (mRV-PCR) following macrofoam-swab sampling. This study was conducted in parallel with a previously reported study that analyzed spores using a plate-culture method. B. anthracis Sterne (BAS) or B. atrophaeus Nakamura (BG) spores were deposited onto four surface materials (glass, stainless steel, vinyl tile, andmore » plastic) at nine target concentrations (2 to 500 spores/coupon; 0.078 to 19.375 colony-forming units [CFU] per cm²). Mean FNR values for mRV-PCR analysis ranged from 0 to 0.917 for BAS and 0 to 0.875 for BG and increased as spore concentration decreased (over the concentrations investigated) for each surface material. FNRs based on mRV-PCR data were not statistically different for BAS and BG, but were significantly lower for glass than for vinyl tile. FNRs also tended to be lower for the mRV-PCR method compared to the culture method. The mRV-PCR LOD₉₅ was lowest for glass (0.429 CFU/cm² with BAS and 0.341 CFU/cm² with BG) and highest for vinyl tile (0.919 CFU/cm² with BAS and 0.917 CFU/cm² with BG). These mRV-PCR LOD₉₅ values were lower than the culture values (BAS: 0.678 to 1.023 CFU/cm² and BG: 0.820 to 1.489 CFU/cm²). The FNR and LOD₉₅ values reported in this work provide guidance for environmental sampling of Bacillus spores at low concentrations.« less

Brewery and liquid manure wastewaters as potential feedstocks for microbial fuel cells: a performance study.

PubMed

Angosto, J M; Fernández-López, J A; Godínez, C

2015-01-01

This work aims at the comparison of the electrical and chemical performance of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) fed with several types of brewery and manure industrial wastewaters. Experiments were conducted in a single-cell MFC with the cathode exposed to air operated in batch and fed-batch modes. In fed-batch mode, after 4 days of operation, a standard MFC was refilled with crude wastewater to regenerate the biofilm and recreate initial feeding conditions. Brewery wastewater (CV1) mixed with pig-farm liquid manure (PU sample) gave the highest voltage (199.8 mV) and power density (340 mW/m3) outputs than non-mixed brewery waste water. Also, coulombic efficiency is much larger in the mixture (11%) than in the others (2-3%). However, in terms of chemical oxygen demand removal, the performance showed to be poorer (53%) for the mixed sample than in the pure brewery sample (93%). Fed-batch operation showed to be a good alternate for quasi-continuous operation, with equivalent electrical and chemical yields as compared with normal batchwise operation.

Wet-air oxidation cleans up black wastewater

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

Not Available

1993-09-01

Sterling Organics produces the analgesic paracetamol (acetaminophen) at its Dudley, England, plant. The wastewater from the batch process contains intermediates such as para-aminophenol (PAP) and byproducts such as thiosulfates, sulfites and sulfides. To stay ahead of increasingly strict environmental legislation, Sterling Organics installed a wet-air oxidation system at the Dudley facility in August 1992. The system is made by Zimpro Environmental Inc. (Rothschild, Wis.). Zimpro's wet-air oxidation system finds a way around the limitations of purely chemical or physical processes. In the process, compressed air at elevated temperature and pressure oxidizes the process intermediates and byproducts and removes the colormore » from the wastewater.« less

High performance batch production of LREBa 2Cu 3O y using novel thin film Nd-123 seed

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muralidhar, M.; Suzuki, K.; Fukumoto, Y.; Ishihara, A.; Tomita, M.

2011-11-01

A batch production for fabrication of LREBa2Cu3Oy (LRE: Sm, Gd, NEG) "LRE-123" pellets are developed in air and Ar-1% O2 using a novel thin film Nd-123 seeds grown on MgO crystals. The SEM and XRD results conformed that the quality and orientation of the seed crystals are excellent. On the other hand, new seeds can withstand temperatures >1100 °C, as a result, the cold seeding process was applied even to grow Sm-123 material in Air. The trapped field observed in the best 45 mm single-grain puck of Gd-123 was in the range of 1.35 T and 0.35 T at 77.3 K and 87.3 K, respectively. The average trapped field at 77.3 K in the 24 mm diameter NEG-123 samples batch lies between 0.9 and 1 T. The maximum trapped field of 1.2 T was recorded at the sample surface. Further, the maximum trapped field of 0.23 T at 77 K was recorded in a sample with 16 mm diameter of Sm-123 with 3 mol% BaO2 addition. As a result we made more then 130 single grain pucks within a couple of months. Taking advantage of the single grain batch processed material, we constructed self-made chilled levitation disk, which was used on the open day of railway technical research Institute. More then 150 children stood on the levitation disk and revel the experience of levitation. The present results prove that a high-performance good-quality class of LREBa2Cu3Oy material can be made by using a novel thin film Nd-123 seeds.

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart Cccc of... - Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Manufacturing of Nutritional Yeast Part 63, Subpt. CCCC, Table 1... emission limitations in the following table: For each fed-batch fermenter producing yeast in the following... limitation does not apply during the production of specialty yeast. ...

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart Cccc of... - Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Manufacturing of Nutritional Yeast Part 63, Subpt. CCCC, Table 1... emission limitations in the following table: For each fed-batch fermenter producing yeast in the following... limitation does not apply during the production of specialty yeast. ...

Measuring the Cognitions, Emotions, and Motivation Associated With Avoidance Behaviors in the Context of Pain: Preliminary Development of the Negative Responsivity to Pain Scales.

PubMed

Jensen, Mark P; Ward, L Charles; Thorn, Beverly E; Ehde, Dawn M; Day, Melissa A

2017-04-01

We recently proposed a Behavioral Inhibition System-Behavioral Activation System (BIS-BAS) model to help explain the effects of pain treatments. In this model, treatments are hypothesized to operate primarily through their effects on the domains within 2 distinct neurophysiological systems that underlie approach (BAS) and avoidance (BIS) behaviors. Measures of the model's domains are needed to evaluate and modify the model. An item pool of negative responses to pain (NRP; hypothesized to be BIS related) and positive responses (PR; hypothesized to be BAS related) were administered to 395 undergraduates, 325 of whom endorsed recurrent pain. The items were administered to 176 of these individuals again 1 week later. Analyses were conducted to develop and validate scales assessing NRP and PR domains. Three NRP scales (Despondent Response to Pain, Fear of Pain, and Avoidant Response to Pain) and 2 PR scales (Happy/Hopeful Responses and Approach Response) emerged. Consistent with the model, the scales formed 2 relatively independent overarching domains. The scales also demonstrated excellent internal consistency, and associations with criterion variables supported their validity. However, whereas the NRP scales evidenced adequate test-retest stability, the 2 PR scales were not adequately stable. The study yielded 3 brief scales assessing NRP, which may be used to further evaluate the BIS-BAS model and to advance research elucidating the mechanisms of psychosocial pain treatments. The findings also provide general support for the BIS-BAS model, while also suggesting that some minor modifications in the model are warranted.

Integrated Science and Logistical Planning to Support Big Questions in Antarctic Science

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vaughan, D. G.; Stockings, T. M.

2015-12-01

Each year, British Antarctic Survey (BAS) supports an extensive programme of science at five Antarctic and sub-Antarctic stations, ranging from the tiny Bird Island Research Station at 54°S in the South Atlantic, to the massive, and fully re-locatable, Halley Research Station on Brunt Ice Shelf at 75°S. The BAS logistics hub, Rothera Research Station on the Antarctic Peninsula supports deployment of deep-field and airborne field campaigns through much of the Antarctic continent, and an innovative new UK polar research vessel is under design, and planned to enter service in the Southern Ocean in 2019. BAS's core science programme covering all aspects of physical, biological and geological science is delivered by our own science teams, but every year many other UK scientists and overseas collaborators also access BAS's Antarctic logistics to support their own programmes. As an integrated science and logistics provider, BAS is continuously reviewing its capabilities and operational procedures to ensure that the future long-term requirements of science are optimally supported. Current trends are towards providing the capacity for heavier remote operations and larger-scale field camps, increasing use of autonomous ocean and airborne platforms, and increasing opportunities to provide turnkey solutions for low-cost experimental deployments. This talk will review of expected trends in Antarctic science and the opportunities to conduct science in Antarctica. It will outline the anticipated logistic developments required to support future stakeholder-led and strategically-directed science programmes, and the long-term ambitions of our science communities indentified in several recent horizon-scanning activities.

Endovascular Embolization of Bronchial Artery Originating from the Upper Portion of Aortic Arch in Patients with Massive Hemoptysis

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

Jiang, Sen, E-mail: jasfly77@vip.163.com; Sun, Xi-Wen, E-mail: xwsun@citiz.net; Yu, Dong, E-mail: yudong_mail@126.com

2013-05-15

PurposeOur experience with endovascular embolization (EVE) of the bronchial artery (BA) originating from the upper portion of the aortic arch (AA) in six patients is described.MethodsAltogether, 818 patients with hemoptysis underwent multidetector row computed tomography angiography (MDCTA) before EVE or AA angiography during EVE. Aberrant BAs originating from the upper portion of the AA were the source of massive hemoptysis in six patients (0.73 %). MDCT angiograms and/or Digital subtraction angiograms were retrospectively reviewed. Selective catheterization and embolization were performed.ResultsThe ostia of the BAs were located on the superior surface of the AA between the brachiocephalic trunk and left common carotidmore » artery in three patients, the junction of the aorta and medial surface of the left subclavian artery in two, and the posterior wall of the upper portion of the AA in one. The six BAs comprised two common trunks, three single right sides, and one single left side. The targeted vessels were successfully catheterized and embolized by a coaxial microcatheter system using polyvinyl alcohol particles. Other pathologic BAs and nonbronchial systemic arteries also were embolized. Bleeding was immediately controlled in all patients with no recurrence of hemoptysis. No procedure-related complications occurred.ConclusionsApplication of EVE of anomalous origin of BAs in patients with hemoptysis is important, as demonstrated in the six reported patients. MDCTA before EVE or AA angiography during EVE is critical to avoid missing a rare aberrant BA originating from the upper portion of the AA.« less

Biological oxidation of hydrogen sulfide in mineral media using a biofilm airlift suspension reactor.

PubMed

Moghanloo, G M Mojarrad; Fatehifar, E; Saedy, S; Aghaeifar, Z; Abbasnezhad, H

2010-11-01

Hydrogen sulfide (H(2)S) removal in mineral media using Thiobacillus thioparus TK-1 in a biofilm airlift suspension reactor (BAS) was investigated to evaluate the relationship between biofilm formation and changes in inlet loading rates. Aqueous sodium sulfide was fed as the substrate into the continuous BAS-reactor. The reactor was operated at a constant temperature of 30 degrees C and a pH of 7, the optimal temperature and pH for biomass growth. The startup of the reactor was performed with basalt carrier material. Optimal treatment performance was obtained at a loading rate of 4.8 mol S(2-) m(-3) h(-1) at a conversion efficiency as high as 100%. The main product of H(2)S oxidation in the BAS-reactor was sulfate because of high oxygen concentrations in the airlift reactor. The maximum sulfide oxidation rate was 6.7 mol S(2-) m(-3) h(-1) at a hydraulic residence time of 3.3 h in the mineral medium. The data showed that the BAS-reactor with this microorganism can be used for sulfide removal from industrial effluent. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Assessing movement quality in persons with severe mental illness - Reliability and validity of the Body Awareness Scale Movement Quality and Experience.

PubMed

Hedlund, Lena; Gyllensten, Amanda Lundvik; Waldegren, Tomas; Hansson, Lars

2016-05-01

Motor disturbances and disturbed self-recognition are common features that affect mobility in persons with schizophrenia spectrum disorder and bipolar disorder. Physiotherapists in Scandinavia assess and treat movement difficulties in persons with severe mental illness. The Body Awareness Scale Movement Quality and Experience (BAS MQ-E) is a new and shortened version of the commonly used Body Awareness Scale-Health (BAS-H). The purpose of this study was to investigate the inter-rater reliability and the concurrent validity of BAS MQ-E in persons with severe mental illness. The concurrent validity was examined by investigating the relationships between neurological soft signs, alexithymia, fatigue, anxiety, and mastery. Sixty-two persons with severe mental illness participated in the study. The results showed a satisfactory inter-rater reliability (n = 53) and a concurrent validity (n = 62) with neurological soft signs, especially cognitive and perceptual based signs. There was also a concurrent validity linked to physical fatigue and aspects of alexithymia. The scores of BAS MQ-E were in general higher for persons with schizophrenia compared to persons with other diagnoses within the schizophrenia spectrum disorders and bipolar disorder. The clinical implications are presented in the discussion.

Promiscuous plasmid replication in thermophiles: Use of a novel hyperthermophilic replicon for genetic manipulation of Clostridium thermocellum at its optimum growth temperature

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

Groom, Joseph; Chung, Daehwan; Olson, Daniel G.

2016-01-29

Clostridium thermocellum is a leading candidate for the consolidated bioprocessing of lignocellulosic biomass for the production of fuels and chemicals. A limitation to the engineering of this strain is the availability of stable replicating plasmid vectors for homologous and heterologous expression of genes that provide improved and/or novel pathways for fuel production. Current vectors relay on replicons from mesophilic bacteria and are not stable at the optimum growth temperature of C. thermocellum. To develop more thermostable genetic tools for C. thermocellum, we constructed vectors based on the hyperthermophilic Caldicellulosiruptor bescii replicon pBAS2. Autonomously replicating shuttle vectors based on pBAS2 reproduciblymore » transformed C. thermocellum at 60 °C and were maintained in multiple copy. Promoters, selectable markers and plasmid replication proteins from C. bescii were functional in C. thermocellum. Phylogenetic analyses of the proteins contained on pBAS2 revealed that the replication initiation protein RepL is unique among thermophiles. Lastly, these results suggest that pBAS2 may be a broadly useful replicon for other thermophilic Firmicutes.« less

Scientific foundation of regulating ionizing radiation: application of metrics for evaluation of regulatory science information.

PubMed

Moghissi, A Alan; Gerraa, Vikrham Kumar; McBride, Dennis K; Swetnam, Michael

2014-11-01

This paper starts by describing the historical evolution of assessment of biologic effects of ionizing radiation leading to the linear non-threshold (LNT) system currently used to regulate exposure to ionizing radiation. The paper describes briefly the concept of Best Available Science (BAS) and Metrics for Evaluation of Scientific Claims (MESC) derived for BAS. It identifies three phases of regulatory science consisting of the initial phase, when the regulators had to develop regulations without having the needed scientific information; the exploratory phase, when relevant tools were developed; and the standard operating phase, when the tools were applied to regulations. Subsequently, an attempt is made to apply the BAS/MESC system to various stages of LNT. This paper then compares the exposure limits imposed by regulatory agencies and also compares them with naturally occurring radiation at several cities. Controversies about LNT are addressed, including judgments of the U.S. National Academies and their French counterpart. The paper concludes that, based on the BAS/MESC system, there is no disagreement between the two academies on the scientific foundation of LNT; instead, the disagreement is based on their judgment or speculation.

Evidences from Rewarding System, FRN and P300 Effect in Internet-Addiction in Young People SHORT TITLE: Rewarding System and EEG in Internet-Addiction

PubMed Central

Venturella, Irene; Finocchiaro, Roberta

2017-01-01

The present research explored rewarding bias and attentional deficits in Internet addiction (IA) based on the IAT (Internet Addiction Test) construct, during an attentional inhibitory task (Go/NoGo task). Event-related Potentials (ERPs) effects (Feedback Related Negativity (FRN) and P300) were monitored in concomitance with Behavioral Activation System (BAS) modulation. High-IAT young participants showed specific responses to IA-related cues (videos representing online gambling and videogames) in terms of cognitive performance (decreased Response Times, RTs; and Error Rates, ERs) and ERPs modulation (decreased FRN and increased P300). Consistent reward and attentional biases was adduced to explain the cognitive “gain” effect and the anomalous response in terms of both feedback behavior (FRN) and attentional (P300) mechanisms in high-IAT. In addition, BAS and BAS-Reward subscales measures were correlated with both IAT and ERPs variations. Therefore, high sensitivity to IAT may be considered as a marker of dysfunctional reward processing (reduction of monitoring) and cognitive control (higher attentional values) for specific IA-related cues. More generally, a direct relationship among reward-related behavior, Internet addiction and BAS attitude was suggested. PMID:28704978

Vaginal biogenic amines: biomarkers of bacterial vaginosis or precursors to vaginal dysbiosis?

PubMed Central

Nelson, Tiffanie M.; Borgogna, Joanna-Lynn C.; Brotman, Rebecca M.; Ravel, Jacques; Walk, Seth T.; Yeoman, Carl J.

2015-01-01

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal disorder among reproductive age women. One clinical indicator of BV is a “fishy” odor. This odor has been associated with increases in several biogenic amines (BAs) that may serve as important biomarkers. Within the vagina, BA production has been linked to various vaginal taxa, yet their genetic capability to synthesize BAs is unknown. Using a bioinformatics approach, we show that relatively few vaginal taxa are predicted to be capable of producing BAs. Many of these taxa (Dialister, Prevotella, Parvimonas, Megasphaera, Peptostreptococcus, and Veillonella spp.) are more abundant in the vaginal microbial community state type (CST) IV, which is depleted in lactobacilli. Several of the major Lactobacillus species (L. crispatus, L. jensenii, and L. gasseri) were identified as possessing gene sequences for proteins predicted to be capable of putrescine production. Finally, we show in a small cross sectional study of 37 women that the BAs putrescine, cadaverine and tyramine are significantly higher in CST IV over CSTs I and III. These data support the hypothesis that BA production is conducted by few vaginal taxa and may be important to the outgrowth of BV-associated (vaginal dysbiosis) vaginal bacteria. PMID:26483694

Vaginal biogenic amines: biomarkers of bacterial vaginosis or precursors to vaginal dysbiosis?

PubMed

Nelson, Tiffanie M; Borgogna, Joanna-Lynn C; Brotman, Rebecca M; Ravel, Jacques; Walk, Seth T; Yeoman, Carl J

2015-01-01

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal disorder among reproductive age women. One clinical indicator of BV is a "fishy" odor. This odor has been associated with increases in several biogenic amines (BAs) that may serve as important biomarkers. Within the vagina, BA production has been linked to various vaginal taxa, yet their genetic capability to synthesize BAs is unknown. Using a bioinformatics approach, we show that relatively few vaginal taxa are predicted to be capable of producing BAs. Many of these taxa (Dialister, Prevotella, Parvimonas, Megasphaera, Peptostreptococcus, and Veillonella spp.) are more abundant in the vaginal microbial community state type (CST) IV, which is depleted in lactobacilli. Several of the major Lactobacillus species (L. crispatus, L. jensenii, and L. gasseri) were identified as possessing gene sequences for proteins predicted to be capable of putrescine production. Finally, we show in a small cross sectional study of 37 women that the BAs putrescine, cadaverine and tyramine are significantly higher in CST IV over CSTs I and III. These data support the hypothesis that BA production is conducted by few vaginal taxa and may be important to the outgrowth of BV-associated (vaginal dysbiosis) vaginal bacteria.

Etude de faisabilite d'un systeme eolien diesel avec stockage d'air comprime

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benchaabane, Youssef

Le Systeme Hybride Eolien-Diesel avec Stockage d'Air Comprime (SHEDAC) utilise l'hybridation pneumatique pour remplacer la consommation des combustibles fossiles par de l'energie renouvelable, plus particulierement de l'energie eolienne. Le surplus de l'energie eolienne est utilise pour comprimer et stocker de l'air qui est utilise ensuite pour suralimenter le moteur diesel. Le memoire de maitrise est constitue de deux articles scientifiques. Le premier article presente le developpement d'un logiciel dedie a l'etude de faisabilite d'un systeme eolien-diesel avec stockage d'air comprime. Cette etude est basee sur l'analyse des couts et des revenus, des couts des equipements (eolienne, moteur diesel, systeme de stockage d'air). Elle est completee par une analyse de sensibilite aux differents parametres, une analyse des risques et des emissions des gaz a effet de serre (GES). Le deuxieme article est une application de ce logiciel pour l'installation d'un systeme SHEDAC au camp minier Esker au Quebec en remplacement des sources actuelles de production d'energie. L'utilisation du stockage d'air comprime a l'aide d'un systeme SHEDAC est le plus rentable par rapport a l'utilisation de l'energie eolienne seule ou d'une centrale thermique au diesel seule ou des deux combinees. Avec une valeur actuelle nette et un taux de rendement interne plus eleves, cette solution permet d'obtenir le plus bas cout de l'energie pour cette region eloignee. None None None

Measuring the reactivity of commercially available zero-valent iron nanoparticles used for environmental remediation with iopromide.

PubMed

Schmid, Doris; Micić, Vesna; Laumann, Susanne; Hofmann, Thilo

2015-10-01

The high specific surface area and high reactivity of nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) particles have led to much research on their application to environmental remediation. The reactivity of nZVI is affected by both the water chemistry and the properties of the particular type of nZVI particle used. We have investigated the reactivity of three types of commercially available Nanofer particles (from Nanoiron, s.r.o., Czech Republic) that are currently either used in, or proposed for use in full scale environmental remediation projects. The performance of one of these, the air-stable and thus easy-to-handle Nanofer Star particle, has not previously been reported. Experiments were carried out first in batch shaking reactors in order to derive maximum reactivity rates and provide a rapid estimate of the Nanofer particle's reactivity. The experiments were performed under near-natural environmental conditions with respect to the pH value of water and solute concentrations, and results were compared with those obtained using synthetic water. Thereafter, the polyelectrolyte-coated Nanofer 25S particles (having the highest potential for transport within porous media) were chosen for the experiments in column reactors, in order to elucidate nanoparticle reactivity under a more field-site realistic setting. Iopromide was rapidly dehalogenated by the investigated nZVI particles, following pseudo-first-order reaction kinetics that was independent of the experimental conditions. The specific surface area normalized reaction rate constant (kSA) value in the batch reactors ranged between 0.12 and 0.53Lm(-2)h(-1); it was highest for the uncoated Nanofer 25 particles, followed by the polyacrylic acid-coated Nanofer 25S and air-stable Nanofer Star particles. In the batch reactors all particles were less reactive in natural water than in synthetic water. The kSA values derived from the column reactor experiments were about 1000 times lower than those from the batch reactors, ranging between 2.6×10(-4) and 5.7×10(-4)Lm(-2)h(-1). Our results revealed that the easy-to-handle and air-stable Nanofer Star particles are the least reactive of all the Nanofer products tested. The reaction kinetics predicted by column experiments were more realistic than those predicted by batch experiments and these should therefore be used when designing a full-scale field application of nanomaterials for environmental remediation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Immunosuppressive therapy for kidney transplantation in children and adolescents: systematic review and economic evaluation.

PubMed Central

Haasova, Marcela; Snowsill, Tristan; Jones-Hughes, Tracey; Crathorne, Louise; Cooper, Chris; Varley-Campbell, Jo; Mujica-Mota, Ruben; Coelho, Helen; Huxley, Nicola; Lowe, Jenny; Dudley, Jan; Marks, Stephen; Hyde, Chris; Bond, Mary; Anderson, Rob

2016-01-01

BACKGROUND End-stage renal disease is a long-term irreversible decline in kidney function requiring kidney transplantation, haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. The preferred option is kidney transplantation followed by induction and maintenance immunosuppressive therapy to reduce the risk of kidney rejection and prolong graft survival. OBJECTIVES To systematically review and update the evidence for the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of basiliximab (BAS) (Simulect,(®) Novartis Pharmaceuticals) and rabbit antihuman thymocyte immunoglobulin (Thymoglobuline,(®) Sanofi) as induction therapy and immediate-release tacrolimus [Adoport(®) (Sandoz); Capexion(®) (Mylan); Modigraf(®) (Astellas Pharma); Perixis(®) (Accord Healthcare); Prograf(®) (Astellas Pharma); Tacni(®) (Teva); Vivadex(®) (Dexcel Pharma)], prolonged-release tacrolimus (Advagraf,(®) Astellas Pharma); belatacept (BEL) (Nulojix,(®) Bristol-Myers Squibb), mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) [Arzip(®) (Zentiva), CellCept(®) (Roche Products), Myfenax(®) (Teva), generic MMF is manufactured by Accord Healthcare, Actavis, Arrow Pharmaceuticals, Dr Reddy's Laboratories, Mylan, Sandoz and Wockhardt], mycophenolate sodium, sirolimus (Rapamune,(®) Pfizer) and everolimus (Certican,(®) Novartis Pharmaceuticals) as maintenance therapy in children and adolescents undergoing renal transplantation. DATA SOURCES Clinical effectiveness searches were conducted to 7 January 2015 in MEDLINE (via Ovid), EMBASE (via Ovid), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (via Wiley Online Library) and Web of Science [via Institute for Scientific Information (ISI)], Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects and Health Technology Assessment (HTA) (The Cochrane Library via Wiley Online Library) and Health Management Information Consortium (via Ovid). Cost-effectiveness searches were conducted to 15 January 2015 using a costs or economic literature search filter in MEDLINE (via Ovid), EMBASE (via Ovid), NHS Economic Evaluation Databases (via Wiley Online Library), Web of Science (via ISI), Health Economic Evaluations Database (via Wiley Online Library) and EconLit (via EBSCOhost). REVIEW METHODS Titles and abstracts were screened according to predefined inclusion criteria, as were full texts of identified studies. Included studies were extracted and quality appraised. Data were meta-analysed when appropriate. A new discrete time state transition economic model (semi-Markov) was developed; graft function, and incidences of acute rejection and new-onset diabetes mellitus were used to extrapolate graft survival. Recipients were assumed to be in one of three health states: functioning graft, graft loss or death. RESULTS Three randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and four non-RCTs were included. The RCTs only evaluated BAS and tacrolimus (TAC). No statistically significant differences in key outcomes were found between BAS and placebo/no induction. Statistically significantly higher graft function (p < 0.01) and less biopsy-proven acute rejection (odds ratio 0.29, 95% confidence interval 0.15 to 0.57) was found between TAC and ciclosporin (CSA). Only one cost-effectiveness study was identified, which informed NICE guidance TA99. BAS [with TAC and azathioprine (AZA)] was predicted to be cost-effective at £20,000-30,000 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) versus no induction (BAS was dominant). BAS (with CSA and MMF) was not predicted to be cost-effective at £20,000-30,000 per QALY versus no induction (BAS was dominated). TAC (with AZA) was predicted to be cost-effective at £20,000-30,000 per QALY versus CSA (TAC was dominant). A model based on adult evidence suggests that at a cost-effectiveness threshold of £20,000-30,000 per QALY, BAS and TAC are cost-effective in all considered combinations; MMF was also cost-effective with CSA but not TAC. LIMITATIONS The RCT evidence is very limited; analyses comparing all interventions need to rely on adult evidence. CONCLUSIONS TAC is likely to be cost-effective (vs. CSA, in combination with AZA) at £20,000-30,000 per QALY. Analysis based on one RCT found BAS to be dominant, but analysis based on another RCT found BAS to be dominated. BAS plus TAC and AZA was predicted to be cost-effective at £20,000-30,000 per QALY when all regimens were compared using extrapolated adult evidence. High-quality primary effectiveness research is needed. The UK Renal Registry could form the basis for a prospective primary study. STUDY REGISTRATION This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42014013544. FUNDING The National Institute for Health Research HTA programme. PMID:27557331

Immunosuppressive therapy for kidney transplantation in children and adolescents: systematic review and economic evaluation.

PubMed

Haasova, Marcela; Snowsill, Tristan; Jones-Hughes, Tracey; Crathorne, Louise; Cooper, Chris; Varley-Campbell, Jo; Mujica-Mota, Ruben; Coelho, Helen; Huxley, Nicola; Lowe, Jenny; Dudley, Jan; Marks, Stephen; Hyde, Chris; Bond, Mary; Anderson, Rob

2016-08-01

End-stage renal disease is a long-term irreversible decline in kidney function requiring kidney transplantation, haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. The preferred option is kidney transplantation followed by induction and maintenance immunosuppressive therapy to reduce the risk of kidney rejection and prolong graft survival. To systematically review and update the evidence for the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of basiliximab (BAS) (Simulect,(®) Novartis Pharmaceuticals) and rabbit antihuman thymocyte immunoglobulin (Thymoglobuline,(®) Sanofi) as induction therapy and immediate-release tacrolimus [Adoport(®) (Sandoz); Capexion(®) (Mylan); Modigraf(®) (Astellas Pharma); Perixis(®) (Accord Healthcare); Prograf(®) (Astellas Pharma); Tacni(®) (Teva); Vivadex(®) (Dexcel Pharma)], prolonged-release tacrolimus (Advagraf,(®) Astellas Pharma); belatacept (BEL) (Nulojix,(®) Bristol-Myers Squibb), mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) [Arzip(®) (Zentiva), CellCept(®) (Roche Products), Myfenax(®) (Teva), generic MMF is manufactured by Accord Healthcare, Actavis, Arrow Pharmaceuticals, Dr Reddy's Laboratories, Mylan, Sandoz and Wockhardt], mycophenolate sodium, sirolimus (Rapamune,(®) Pfizer) and everolimus (Certican,(®) Novartis Pharmaceuticals) as maintenance therapy in children and adolescents undergoing renal transplantation. Clinical effectiveness searches were conducted to 7 January 2015 in MEDLINE (via Ovid), EMBASE (via Ovid), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (via Wiley Online Library) and Web of Science [via Institute for Scientific Information (ISI)], Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects and Health Technology Assessment (HTA) (The Cochrane Library via Wiley Online Library) and Health Management Information Consortium (via Ovid). Cost-effectiveness searches were conducted to 15 January 2015 using a costs or economic literature search filter in MEDLINE (via Ovid), EMBASE (via Ovid), NHS Economic Evaluation Databases (via Wiley Online Library), Web of Science (via ISI), Health Economic Evaluations Database (via Wiley Online Library) and EconLit (via EBSCOhost). Titles and abstracts were screened according to predefined inclusion criteria, as were full texts of identified studies. Included studies were extracted and quality appraised. Data were meta-analysed when appropriate. A new discrete time state transition economic model (semi-Markov) was developed; graft function, and incidences of acute rejection and new-onset diabetes mellitus were used to extrapolate graft survival. Recipients were assumed to be in one of three health states: functioning graft, graft loss or death. Three randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and four non-RCTs were included. The RCTs only evaluated BAS and tacrolimus (TAC). No statistically significant differences in key outcomes were found between BAS and placebo/no induction. Statistically significantly higher graft function (p < 0.01) and less biopsy-proven acute rejection (odds ratio 0.29, 95% confidence interval 0.15 to 0.57) was found between TAC and ciclosporin (CSA). Only one cost-effectiveness study was identified, which informed NICE guidance TA99. BAS [with TAC and azathioprine (AZA)] was predicted to be cost-effective at £20,000-30,000 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) versus no induction (BAS was dominant). BAS (with CSA and MMF) was not predicted to be cost-effective at £20,000-30,000 per QALY versus no induction (BAS was dominated). TAC (with AZA) was predicted to be cost-effective at £20,000-30,000 per QALY versus CSA (TAC was dominant). A model based on adult evidence suggests that at a cost-effectiveness threshold of £20,000-30,000 per QALY, BAS and TAC are cost-effective in all considered combinations; MMF was also cost-effective with CSA but not TAC. The RCT evidence is very limited; analyses comparing all interventions need to rely on adult evidence. TAC is likely to be cost-effective (vs. CSA, in combination with AZA) at £20,000-30,000 per QALY. Analysis based on one RCT found BAS to be dominant, but analysis based on another RCT found BAS to be dominated. BAS plus TAC and AZA was predicted to be cost-effective at £20,000-30,000 per QALY when all regimens were compared using extrapolated adult evidence. High-quality primary effectiveness research is needed. The UK Renal Registry could form the basis for a prospective primary study. This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42014013544. The National Institute for Health Research HTA programme.

Effect of Trona on the leaching of trace elements from coal fly ash.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-07-01

Fly ashes were sampled from the ESPs by on-site contractors during air emission control tests. The injection tests were short-term, : lasting approximately three hours per test condition. EPRI received three batches of samples since November 2011, re...

Feasibility of bioengineered two-stages sequential batch reactor and filtration-adsorption process for complex agrochemical effluent.

PubMed

Manekar, Pravin; Biswas, Rima; Urewar, Chaitali; Pal, Sukdeb; Nandy, Tapas

2013-11-01

In the present study, the feasibility of a bioengineered two-stages sequential batch reactor (BTSSBR) followed by filtration-adsorption process was investigated to treat the agrochemical effluent by overcoming factor affecting process stability such as microbial imbalance and substrate sensitivity. An air stripper stripped 90% of toxic ammonia, and combined with other streams for bio-oxidation and filtration-adsorption. The BTSSBR system achieved bio-oxidation at 6 days hydraulic retention time by fending off microbial imbalance and substrate sensitivity. The maximum reduction in COD and BOD by heterotrophic bacteria in the first reactor was 87% and 90%, respectively. Removal of toxic ammoniacal-nitrogen by autotrophic bacteria in a post-second stage bio-oxidation was 97%. The optimum filtration and adsorption of pollutants were achieved at a filtration rate of 10 and 9 m(3)m(-2)h(-1), respectively. The treatment scheme comprising air stripper, BTSSBR and filtration-adsorption process showed a great promise for treating the agrochemical effluent. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A checklist of plant and animal species at Los Alamos National Laboratory and surrounding areas

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

Hinojosa, H.

Past and current members of the Biology Team (BT) of the Ecology Group have completed biological assessments (BAs) for all of the land that comprises Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). Within these assessments are lists of plant and animal species with the potential to exist on LANL lands and the surrounding areas. To compile these lists, BT members examined earlier published and unpublished reports, surveys, and data bases that pertained to the biota of this area or to areas that are similar. The species lists that are contained herein are compilations of the lists from these BAs, other lists thatmore » were a part of the initial research for the performance of these BAs, and more recent surveys.« less

[Experience in the use of anti-colibacillus and Proteus lactoglobulin as a supplement to milk products in diet therapy at a specialized childrens' collective].

PubMed

Soboleva, S V; Zlatnik, E Ia; Mineeva, L D; Kaplin, M M; Shamanova, G P

1989-01-01

A new biologically active supplement (BAS) for infant food was tested at an Infant's Home. BAS-IG contains lactoglobulin, an immune preparation against colibacillus and Proteus. During the primary examination of the infants in the Infant's Home intestinal dysbacteriosis was revealed in 100% of the infants, clinical signs of dysbacteriosis were detected in 88.4% of the infants. Two successive courses of feeding the infants with products enriched with the new supplement resulted in a significant improvement of the microflora composition in them and in normalizing their clinical condition. At the same time positive changes in a number of immunological factors were recorded. The authors have recommended using BAS-IG for correction of dysbacteriosis in children at Infant's Homes.

The value of surrogate markers to monitor cholesterol absorption, synthesis and bioconversion to bile acids under lipid lowering therapies.

PubMed

Stellaard, Frans; von Bergmann, Klaus; Sudhop, Thomas; Lütjohann, Dieter

2017-05-01

Regulation of cholesterol (Chol) homeostasis is controlled by three main fluxes, i.e. intestinal absorption, de novo synthesis (ChS) and catabolism, predominantly as bile acid synthesis (BAS). High serum total Chol and LDL-Chol concentrations in particular are considered risk factors and markers for the development of atherosclerosis. Pharmaceutical treatments to lower serum Chol have focused on reducing absorption or ChS and increasing BAS. Monitoring of these three parameters is complex involving isotope techniques, cholesterol balance experiments and advanced mass spectrometry based analysis methods. Surrogate markers were explored that require only one single fasting blood sample collection. These markers were validated in specific, mostly physiological conditions and during statin treatment to inhibit ChS. They were also applied under cholesterol absorption restriction, but were not validated in this condition. We retrospectively evaluated the use of serum campesterol (Camp), sitosterol (Sit) and cholestanol (Cholol) as markers for cholesterol absorption, lathosterol (Lath) as marker for ChS and 7α-hydroxycholesterol (7α-OH-Ch) and 27-hydroxycholesterol (27-OH-Ch) as markers for BAS under conditions of Chol absorption restriction. Additionally, their values were corrected for Chol concentration (R_sterol or oxysterols). Thirty-seven healthy male omnivore subjects were studied under treatments with placebo (PLAC), ezetimibe (EZE) to inhibit cholesterol absorption, simvastatin (SIMVA) to reduce cholesterol synthesis and a combination of both (EZE+SIMVA). Results were compared to those obtained in 18 pure vegetarian subjects (vegans) whose dietary Chol intake is extremely low. Relative or fractional Chol absorption (FrChA) was measured with the continuous feeding stable isotope procedure, ChS and BAS with the cholesterol balance method. The daily Chol intake (DICh) was inventoried and the daily Chol absorption (DACh) calculated. Monitoring cholesterol absorption, R_Camp, R_Sit and R_Cholol responded sensitively to changes in FrChA. R_Camp correlated well with FrChA in all omnivore treatment groups and in the vegan group. R_Camp confirmed reduced FrChA under EZE treatment and reduced DACh in the vegan subjects. R_Sit and R_Cholol did not accurately reflect FrChA or DACh in all situations. Monitoring endogenous cholesterol synthesis, R_Lath correlated with ChS in the vegan group, but in none of the omnivore treatment groups. R_Lath confirmed increased ChS under EZE treatment and was reduced under SIMVA treatment, while ChS was not. An increased ChS under EZE+SIMVA treatment could not be confirmed with R_Lath. R_Lath responded very insensitively to a change in ChS. Monitoring BAS, R_7α-OH-Ch but not R_27-OH-Ch correlated with BAS during PLAC, EZE and SIMVA treatments. In line with BAS, R_7α-OH-Ch did not differ in any of the omnivore treatment groups. R_7α-OH-Ch responded insensitively to a change in BAS. Under Chol absorption restriction, serum R_Camp is a sensitive and valid marker to monitor FrChA in a population with a normal DICh. Also, major changes in DACh can be detected in vegans. Serum R_Lath does not reflect ChS measured with the cholesterol balance method during EZE treatment. This result initiates the question whether the measured ChS reflects pure de novo synthesis. Serum R_7α-OH-Ch appears to be a valid but insensitive marker for BAS. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Small Hydropower in Latvia and Intellectualization of its Operating Systems / Par Mazo HIDROENERĢĒTIKU LATVIJĀ un TĀS Staciju VADĪBAS SISTĒMAS INTELEKTUALIZĀCIJU

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahnitko, A.; Gerhards, J.; Linkevics, O.; Varfolomejeva, R.; Umbrasko, I.

2013-12-01

The authors estimate the potential for power generation from water resources of small and medium-sized rivers, which are abundant in Latvia. They propose the algorithm for optimal operation of a small-scale hydropower plant (SHPP) at the chosen optimality criterion in view of the plant's participation in the market. The choice of SHPP optimization algorithm is made based on two mathematical programming methods - dynamic and generalized reduced gradient ones. Approbation of the algorithm is illustrated by an example of optimized SHPP operation. Darbā analizētas tradicionālo un pieejamo vietējo atjaunojamo energoresursu - mazo un vidējo upju hidroresursa izmantošanas iespējas Latvijas enerģētikā. Tiek sniegts faktiskais materiāls šajā jautājumā, kas iegūts, balstoties uz oficiālos avotos publicētiem citu autoru iepriekš veiktajiem pētījumiem. Tiek atzīmēts, ka teritoriju, kas atrodas mazo upju tuvumā un nav ietvertas centralizētās elektroapgādes sistēmā, saimnieciskā apgūšana rada apstākļus patērētāju stimulēšanai izmantot autonomus vietējos energoresursus, ieskaitot hidroenerģiju, izmantojošas mazas jaudas energoiekārtas. Atjaunojamās enerģijas tehnoloģiju un iekārtu pastāvīga attīstība un pilnveidošanās veicinās mazo upju plūsmas izmantošanas elektroenerģijas ražošanas efektivitātes paaugstināšanos. Mūsdienu enerģētikas attīstības koncepcija, kas balstīta uz viedo tīklu (smart grids) izveidi, ļauj paaugstināt mazās hidroenerģētikas darbības efektivitāti, integrējot to elektroenerģētiskajā sistēmā. Mazo hidroelektrostaciju (MHES) darbības vadības sistēmas intelektualizācijas pamatā jābūt kompleksam algoritmam un programmām, kas ļauj tiešsaistes (online) režīmā nodrošināt izdevīgu MHES darbības grafiku (režīmu) maksimālā ienākuma gūšanai, balstoties uz zināmu elektroenerģijas cenas prognozi attiecīgajam laika periodam (diennaktij). MHES darbības optimizācijas algoritma, kas pēc būtības ir tās vadības pamats, izstrāde tiek veikta, balstoties uz klasiskās matemātiskas programmēšanas metodes - dinamiskās programmēšanas metodi un vispārināto reducēto gradienta metodi. Izstrādājot programmu kodus, kas realizē autonomā režīmā strādājošas MHES optimizācijas algoritmu, nepieciešams izmantot speciālas aprēķinu procedūras, kas ir adaptīvas pret konkrētiem MHES ūdens spiediena ierobežojumiem. Algoritma aprobācija veikta uz konkrētas MHES režīma optimizācijas piemēra.

Diagnosing Autism in Adults with Intellectual Disability: Validation of the DiBAS-R in an Independent Sample

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Heinrich, Manuel; Böhm, Julia; Sappok, Tanja

2018-01-01

The study assessed the diagnostic validity of the diagnostic behavioral assessment for autism spectrum disorders-revised (DiBAS-R; 19-item screening scale based on ratings by caregivers) in a clinical sample of 381 adults with ID. Analysis revealed a sensitivity of 0.82 and a specificity of 0.67 in the overall sample (70.3% agreement). Sensitivity…

Folic Acid and Creatine as Therapeutic Approaches to Lower Blood Arsenic: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Peters, Brandilyn A; Hall, Megan N; Liu, Xinhua; Parvez, Faruque; Sanchez, Tiffany R; van Geen, Alexander; Mey, Jacob L; Siddique, Abu B; Shahriar, Hasan; Uddin, Mohammad Nasir; Islam, Tariqul; Balac, Olgica; Ilievski, Vesna; Factor-Litvak, Pam; Graziano, Joseph H; Gamble, Mary V

2015-12-01

The World Health Organization estimates that > 140 million people worldwide are exposed to arsenic (As)-contaminated drinking water. As undergoes biologic methylation, which facilitates renal As elimination. In folate-deficient individuals, this process is augmented by folic acid (FA) supplementation, thereby lowering blood As (bAs). Creatinine concentrations in urine are a robust predictor of As methylation patterns. Although the reasons for this are unclear, creatine synthesis is a major consumer of methyl donors, and this synthesis is down-regulated by dietary/supplemental creatine. Our aim was to determine whether 400 or 800 μg FA and/or creatine supplementation lowers bAs in an As-exposed Bangladeshi population. We conducted a clinical trial in which 622 participants were randomized to receive 400 μg FA, 800 μg FA, 3 g creatine, 3 g creatine+400 μg FA, or placebo daily. All participants received an As-removal filter on enrollment, and were followed for 24 weeks. After the 12th week, half of the two FA groups were switched to placebo to evaluate post-treatment bAs patterns. Linear models with repeated measures indicated that the decline in ln(bAs) from baseline in the 800-μg FA group exceeded that of the placebo group (weeks 1-12: β= -0.09, 95% CI: -0.18, -0.01; weeks 13-24: FA continued: β= -0.12, 95% CI: -0.24, -0.00; FA switched to placebo: β= -0.14, 95% CI: -0.26, -0.02). There was no rebound in bAs related to cessation of FA supplementation. Declines in bAs observed in the remaining treatment arms were not significantly different from those of the placebo group. In this mixed folate-deficient/replete study population, 12- and 24-week treatment with 800 μg (but not 400 μg) FA lowered bAs to a greater extent than placebo; this was sustained 12 weeks after FA cessation. In future studies, we will evaluate whether FA and/or creatine altered As methylation profiles.

A Theoretical Approach to Selection of a Biologically Active Substance in Ultra-Low Doses for Effective Action on a Biological System.

PubMed

Boldyreva, Liudmila Borisovna

2018-05-01

 An approach is offered to selecting a biologically active substance (BAS) in ultra-low dose for effective action on a biological system (BS). The technique is based on the assumption that BAS in ultra-low doses exerts action on BS by means of spin supercurrent emerging between the spin structure created by BAS, on the one hand, and the spin structure created by BS, on the other hand. According to modern quantum-mechanical concepts, these spin structures may be virtual particles pairs having precessing spin (that is, be essentially spin vortices in the physical vacuum) and created by the quantum entities that BAS and BS consist of. The action is effective provided there is equality of precession frequencies of spins in these spin structures.  In this work, some methods are considered for determining the precession frequencies of spins in virtual particles pairs: (1) determination of energy levels of quantum entities that BS and BAS consist of; (2) the use of spin-flip effect of the virtual particles pair spin, the effect being initiated by action of magnetic vector potential (the spin-flip effect takes place when the varied frequency of the magnetic vector potential equals the precession frequency of the spin); (3) determining the frequencies of photons effectively acting on BS.  It is shown that the effect of BAS in ultra-low doses on BS can be replaced by the effect of a beam of low-intensity photons, if the frequency of photons equals the precession frequency of spin in spin structures created by BS. Consequently, the color of bodies placed near a biological system is able to exert an effective action on the biological system: that is "color therapy" is possible. It is also supposed that the spin-flip effect may be used not only for determining the precession frequency of spin in spin structures created by BS but also for therapeutic action on biological systems. The Faculty of Homeopathy.

PEGylated Self-Assembled Nano-Bacitracin A: Probing the Antibacterial Mechanism and Real-Time Tracing of Target Delivery in Vivo.

PubMed

Hong, Wei; Zhao, Yining; Guo, Yuru; Huang, Chengcheng; Qiu, Peng; Zhu, Jia; Chu, Chun; Shi, Hong; Liu, Mingchun

2018-04-04

Although nano-self-assemblies of hydrophobic-modified bacitracin A with poly(d,l-lactic- co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) (nano-BA PLGA ) have demonstrated promising antibacterial activities, the application of nano-BA PLGA was severely compromised by low water solubility. In this study, a series of PEGylated PLGA copolymers were selected to conjugate with the N-terminus of bacitracin A to construct PEGylated self-assembled nano-BAs and to further develop nano-self-assemblies of bacitracin A with strong antibacterial potency and high solubility. Compared with nano-BA PLGA , all PEGylated nano-BAs, except nano-BA 5k , exhibited strong antibacterial efficiency against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria by inducing loss of cytoplasmic membrane potential, membrane permeabilization, and leakage of calcein from artificial cell membranes. Studies elucidating the underlying mechanism of PEGylated nano-BAs against Gram-negative bacteria indicated that the strong hydrophobic and van der Waals interactions between PLGA and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) could bind, neutralize, and disassociate LPS, facilitating cellular uptake of the nanoparticles, which could destabilize the membrane, resulting in cell death. Moreover, PEGylated nano-BAs (nano-BA 12k ) with a longer PLGA block were expected to occupy a higher local density of BA mass on the surface and result in stronger hydrophobic and van der Waals interactions with LPS, which were responsible for the enhanced antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and emerging antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria, respectively. In vivo imaging verified that PEGylated nano-BAs exhibited higher inflammatory tissue distribution and longer circulation time than nano-BA PLGA . Therefore, although PEGylation did not affect antibacterial activity, it is necessary for target delivery and resistance to clearance of the observed PEGylated nano-BAs. In vivo, nano-BA 12k also showed the highest therapeutic index against infection burden in a mouse thigh infection model among the tested formulations, which showed good correlation with the in vitro results. In conclusion, nano-BA 12k showed high efficacy in the treatment of invasive infections. This new approach of constructing nanoantibiotics by modification of commercially available antibiotics with PEGylated copolymers is safe, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly.

Development of standard operating procedures of Habbe Shifa: A polyherbal Unani formulation.

PubMed

Tarannum, Asira; Shamsi, Shariq; Zaman, Roohi

2013-07-01

Unani medicines are being used since antiquity. However, in spite of their efficacy, they have been widely criticized due to lack of standardization and poor quality presentation. For this reason, application of good manufacturing practices and development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) in the manufacture of herbal medicines became an essential tool to assure their quality. Therefore, the objective of the study was to develop the SOP of Habbe Shifa (HS) regarding the particle size (PS), binder, temperature of drying, and duration of drying. In this study, 24 batches of HS were prepared according to the instructions given in formulary to develop SOP. Three particle sizes (i.e., 80, 100, and 120 No. Mesh sieve), were taken for preparation of pills. Water and Samaghe Arabi (Gum Acacia mucilage [GAM]) were used as binder for preparing the lubdi (mass) in different batches. Different temperature and duration of drying were used to dry the pills in hot air oven to get satisfactory results. All the batches were assessed three times for hardness, friability, and disintegration time and mean regarded as standard parameter value. The batch with 150 μm PS (100 mesh sieve), 5% w/w GAM used as a binder, dried at 90°C for 120 min showed hardness 3.50 ± 0.00 kg/cm, friability 0.02 ± 0.003%, and disintegration time 25.00 ± 0.57 min, which showed most appropriate result among all batches and considered as final batch. Its SOP may be used for future reference which can help in setting up regulatory limit to assure the quality of Unani medicines.

40 CFR 61.93 - Emission monitoring and test procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... or frequent flow rate measurements shall be made. For relatively constant flow rates only periodic... applicable to batch processes when the unit is in operation. Periodic sampling (grab samples) may be used... have a potential to release radionuclides into the air, periodic confirmatory measurements shall be...

40 CFR 61.93 - Emission monitoring and test procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... or frequent flow rate measurements shall be made. For relatively constant flow rates only periodic... applicable to batch processes when the unit is in operation. Periodic sampling (grab samples) may be used... have a potential to release radionuclides into the air, periodic confirmatory measurements shall be...

40 CFR 61.93 - Emission monitoring and test procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... or frequent flow rate measurements shall be made. For relatively constant flow rates only periodic... applicable to batch processes when the unit is in operation. Periodic sampling (grab samples) may be used... have a potential to release radionuclides into the air, periodic confirmatory measurements shall be...

40 CFR 61.93 - Emission monitoring and test procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... or frequent flow rate measurements shall be made. For relatively constant flow rates only periodic... applicable to batch processes when the unit is in operation. Periodic sampling (grab samples) may be used... have a potential to release radionuclides into the air, periodic confirmatory measurements shall be...

40 CFR 61.93 - Emission monitoring and test procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... or frequent flow rate measurements shall be made. For relatively constant flow rates only periodic... applicable to batch processes when the unit is in operation. Periodic sampling (grab samples) may be used... have a potential to release radionuclides into the air, periodic confirmatory measurements shall be...

40 CFR 63.2520 - What reports must I submit and when?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... (CONTINUED) National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Miscellaneous Organic Chemical... from streams that contain energetics and organic peroxides, and rationale for why meeting the emission... lb/yr, the total uncontrolled organic HAP emissions from the batch process vents in an MCPU will be...

Cytosol-nucleus traffic and colocalization with FXR of conjugated bile acids in rat hepatocytes.

PubMed

Monte, Maria J; Rosales, Ruben; Macias, Rocio I R; Iannota, Valeria; Martinez-Fernandez, Almudena; Romero, Marta R; Hofmann, Alan F; Marin, Jose J G

2008-07-01

Bile acids (BAs) are natural ligands of nuclear receptors, in particular farnesoid X receptor (FXR). Whether, in addition to protein-mediated cytosolic-nuclear BA translocation, other mechanisms are involved in the access of BAs to nuclear FXR was investigated. When rat hepatocytes were incubated with radiolabeled taurocholic acid, taurodeoxycholic acid, taurochenodeoxycholic acid, and tauroursodeoxycholic acid, their nuclear accumulation was proportional to their intracellular levels. With the use of flow cytometry analysis, the accumulation by nuclei isolated from rat liver cells was found to differ for several fluorescent compounds of similar molecular weight and different charge, including fluorescein-tagged BAs [cholylglycyl amidofluorescein (CGamF), ursodeoxycholylglycyl amidofluorescein, or chenodeoxycholylglycyl amidofluorescein]. When we varied nuclear volume by incubation with different sucrose concentrations, a similar relationship between nuclear volume and content of FITC and 4-kDa FITC-dextran was found. In contrast, this relationship was markedly lower for CGamF. Confocal microscopy studies revealed that fluorescein-tagged BAs, but also FITC or 10-kDa FITC-dextran were found in the nuclear envelope and concentrated in regions where DNA was less densely packed. In contrast to the cytosolic subcellular localization of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha, FXR and nucleolin (a marker of transcriptional active chromatin) were also localized by immunoreactivity in these intranuclear regions. In conclusion, although intranuclear levels of small organic molecules including conjugated BAs depend on their concentrations in the extranuclear space, the existence of certain molecular selectivity (not strictly dependent on molecular weight or charge) suggests that, in addition to simple diffusional exchange, other mechanisms may be also involved in determining their overall nuclear content in regions where these compounds coincide and may interact with nuclear receptors such as FXR.

MALDI Mass Spectral Imaging of Bile Acids Observed as Deprotonated Molecules and Proton-Bound Dimers from Mouse Liver Sections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rzagalinski, Ignacy; Hainz, Nadine; Meier, Carola; Tschernig, Thomas; Volmer, Dietrich A.

2018-02-01

Bile acids (BAs) play two vital roles in living organisms, as they are involved in (1) the secretion of cholesterol from liver, and (2) the lipid digestion/absorption in the intestine. Abnormal bile acid synthesis or secretion can lead to severe liver disorders. Even though there is extensive literature on the mass spectrometric determination of BAs in biofluids and tissue homogenates, there are no reports on the spatial distribution in the biliary network of the liver. Here, we demonstrate the application of high mass resolution/mass accuracy matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI)-Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance (FTICR) to MS imaging (MSI) of BAs at high spatial resolutions (pixel size, 25 μm). The results show chemical heterogeneity of the mouse liver sections with a number of branching biliary and blood ducts. In addition to ion signals from deprotonation of the BA molecules, MALDI-MSI generated several further intense signals at larger m/z for the BAs. These signals were spatially co-localized with the deprotonated molecules and easily misinterpreted as additional products of BA biotransformations. In-depth analysis of accurate mass shifts and additional electrospray ionization and MALDI-FTICR experiments, however, confirmed them as proton-bound dimers. Interestingly, dimers of bile acids, but also unusual mixed dimers of different taurine-conjugated bile acids and free taurine, were identified. Since formation of these complexes will negatively influence signal intensities of the desired [M - H]- ions and significantly complicate mass spectral interpretations, two simple broadband techniques were proposed for non-selective dissociation of dimers that lead to increased signals for the deprotonated BAs. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

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

Karayigit, A.I.; Bulut, Y.; Karayigit, G.

A total of 48 samples, feed coals (FCs), fly ashes (FAs) and bottom ashes (BAs), which were systematically collected once a week over an eight-week period from boiler units, B1-4 with 660 MW and B5-6 with 330 MW capacity from Soma power plant, have been evaluated for major and trace elements (Al, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Ti, S, As, B, Ba, Be, Bi, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Cs, Ga, Ge, Hf, Hg, Li, Mo, Nb, Ni, P, Pb, Rb, Sb, Sc, Se, Sn, Sr, Ta, Th, Tl, U, V, Y, Zn, Zr, and REEs) to get information onmore » behavior during coal combustion. This study indicates that some elements such as Hg, Bi, Cd, As, Pb, Ge, Tl, Sn, Zn, Sb, B show enrichments in FAs relative to the BAs in both group boiler units. In addition to these, Cs, Lu, Tm, and Ga in Units B1-4 and S in Units B5-6 also have enrichments in FAs. Elements showing enrichments in BAs in both group boiler units are Ta, Mn, Nb. In addition to these, Se, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe in Units B1-4 and Cu in Units B5-6 also have enrichments in BAs. The remaining elements investigated in this study have no clear segregation between FAs and BAs. Mass balance calculations with the two methods show that some elements, S, Ta, Hg, Se, Zn, Na, Ca in Units B1-4, and Hg, S, Ta, Se, P in Units B5-6, have volatile behavior during coal combustion in the Soma power plant. This study also implies that some elements, Sb and Tb in Units B1-4 and Sb in Units B5-6, have relatively high retention effects in the combustion residues from the Soma power plant.« less

[Experience with the use of the bio-active stent coated with titanium nitric oxide compared with zotarolimus-eluting stent: experience of a unit medical high specialty].

PubMed

Garcia-Gutierrez, Juan C; Palacios-Rodríguez, Juan M; Cordova-Correa, Horacio G; Becerra-Laguna, Carlos A; López-López, Hugo A; Salinas Aragón, Miguel A; García-Bonilla, Jorge

2016-01-01

The use of coronary stents in coronary angioplasty has evolved dramatically in its design, type materials, polymers, and a variety of drugs, the use of coronary stents covered nitric oxide have shown satisfactory results in practice, however compared to the results reported drug-eluting stents, there is little information. The aim of this study was to compare clinical outcomes of a stainless steel stent Bioactive nitric oxide coated titanium (BAS) and a drug-eluting stent zotarolimus (DES) in daily clinical practice. A retrospective, analytical, descriptive and comparative study aimed at evaluating the safety and efficacy of two devices with different characteristics in our population. The primary endpoints were: death, acute infarction (AMI), and re intervention injury Treated (RLT). A total of 759 patients were included in the study which was performed angioplasty to a single vessel. Were divided into two arms 382 with DES and 377 patients with BAS, the one year follow up was carried in 95%. After this follow-up period, primary points (cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, TLR and stent thrombosis) for arm DES vs BAS; 9.5% vs 8.5% P=NS but with shorter periods of dual antiplatelet therapy for arm BAS 6.9±4.1 vs 11.1±2.5 months DES P=.0001. The results were independent of the clinical syndrome of presentation. After one year of follow no statistically significant difference in major clinical events, there was a trend in favour of BAS vs SM with respect to revascularization of the target lesion without reaching statistical significance. Copyright © 2015 Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez. Published by Masson Doyma México S.A. All rights reserved.

Personality of young drivers in Oman: Relationship to risky driving behaviors and crash involvement among Sultan Qaboos University students.

PubMed

Al Azri, Mohammed; Al Reesi, Hamed; Al-Adawi, Samir; Al Maniri, Abdullah; Freeman, James

2017-02-17

Drivers' behaviors such as violations and errors have been demonstrated to predict crash involvement among young Omani drivers. However, there is a dearth of studies linking risky driving behaviors to the personality of young drivers. The aim of the present study was to assess such traits within a sample of young Omani drivers (as measured through the behavioral inhibition system [BIS] and the behavioral activation system [BAS]) and determine links with aberrant driving behaviors and self-reported crash involvement. A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Sultan Qaboos University that targeted all licensed Omani's undergraduate students. A total of 529 randomly selected students completed the self-reported questionnaire that included an assessment of driving behaviors (e.g., Driver Behaviour Questionnaire, DBQ) as well as the BIS/BAS measures. A total of 237 participants (44.8%) reported involvement in at least one crash since being licensed. Young drivers with lower BIS-Anxiety scores and higher BAS-Fun Seeking tendencies as well as male drivers were more likely to report driving violations. Statistically significant gender differences were observed on all BIS and BAS subscales (except for BAS-Fun) and the DBQ subscales, because males reported higher trait scores. Though personality traits were related to aberrant driving behaviors at the bivariate level, the constructs were not predictive of engaging in violations or errors. Furthermore, consistent with previous research, a supplementary multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that only driving experience was predictive of crash involvement. The findings highlight that though personality traits influence self-reported driving styles (and differ between the genders), the relationship with crash involvement is not as clear. This article further outlines the key findings of the study in regards to understanding core psychological constructs that increase crash risk.

False-negative rate, limit of detection and recovery efficiency performance of a validated macrofoam-swab sampling method for low surface concentrations of Bacillus anthracis Sterne and Bacillus atrophaeus spores

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

Piepel, G. F.; Deatherage Kaiser, B. L.; Amidan, B. G.

The performance of a macrofoam-swab sampling method was evaluated using Bacillus anthracis Sterne (BAS) and Bacillus atrophaeus Nakamura (BG) spores applied at nine low target amounts (2-500 spores) to positive-control plates and test coupons (2 in × 2 in) of four surface materials (glass, stainless steel, vinyl tile, and plastic). Test results from cultured samples were used to evaluate the effects of surrogate, surface concentration, and surface material on recovery efficiency (RE), false negative rate (FNR), and limit of detection. For RE, surrogate and surface material had statistically significant effects, but concentration did not. Mean REs were the lowest formore » vinyl tile (50.8% with BAS and 40.2% with BG) and the highest for glass (92.8% with BAS and 71.4% with BG). FNR values ranged from 0 to 0.833 for BAS and 0 to 0.806 for BG; values increased as concentration decreased in the range tested (0.078 to 19.375 CFU/cm2). Surface material also had a statistically significant effect. A FNR-concentration curve was fit for each combination of surrogate and surface material. For both surrogates, the FNR curves tended to be the lowest for glass and highest for vinyl title. The FNR curves for BG tended to be higher than for BAS at lower concentrations, especially for glass. Results using a modified Rapid Viability-Polymerase Chain Reaction (mRV-PCR) analysis method were also obtained. The mRV-PCR results and comparisons to the culture results will be discussed in a subsequent article.« less

Recovery Efficiency, False Negative Rate, and Limit of Detection Performance of a Validated Macrofoam-Swab Sampling Method with Low Surface Concentrations of Two Bacillus anthracis Surrogates

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

Piepel, Gregory F.; Hutchison, Janine R.; Kaiser, Brooke L. D.

The performance of a macrofoam-swab sampling method was evaluated using Bacillus anthracis Sterne (BAS) and Bacillus atrophaeus Nakamura (BG) spores applied at nine low target amounts (2-500 spores) to positive-control plates and test coupons (2 in × 2 in) of four surface materials (glass, stainless steel, vinyl tile, and plastic). Test results from cultured samples were used to evaluate the effects of surrogate, surface concentration, and surface material on recovery efficiency (RE), false negative rate (FNR), and limit of detection. For RE, surrogate and surface material had statistically significant effects, but concentration did not. Mean REs were the lowest formore » vinyl tile (50.8% with BAS, 40.2% with BG) and the highest for glass (92.8% with BAS, 71.4% with BG). FNR values ranged from 0 to 0.833 for BAS and 0 to 0.806 for BG, with values increasing as concentration decreased in the range tested (0.078 to 19.375 CFU/cm2, where CFU denotes ‘colony forming units’). Surface material also had a statistically significant effect. A FNR-concentration curve was fit for each combination of surrogate and surface material. For both surrogates, the FNR curves tended to be the lowest for glass and highest for vinyl title. The FNR curves for BG tended to be higher than for BAS at lower concentrations, especially for glass. Results using a modified Rapid Viability-Polymerase Chain Reaction (mRV-PCR) analysis method were also obtained. The mRV-PCR results and comparisons to the culture results are discussed in a separate report.« less

Recovery Efficiency, False Negative Rate, and Limit of Detection Performance of a Validated Macrofoam-Swab Sampling Method with Low Surface Concentrations of Two Bacillus anthracis Surrogates

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

Piepel, Gregory F.; Hutchison, Janine R.; Deatherage Kaiser, Brooke L

The performance of a macrofoam-swab sampling method was evaluated using Bacillus anthracis Sterne (BAS) and Bacillus atrophaeus Nakamura (BG) spores applied at nine low target amounts (2-500 spores) to positive-control plates and test coupons (2 in. × 2 in.) of four surface materials (glass, stainless steel, vinyl tile, and plastic). Test results from cultured samples were used to evaluate the effects of surrogate, surface concentration, and surface material on recovery efficiency (RE), false negative rate (FNR), and limit of detection. For RE, surrogate and surface material had statistically significant effects, but concentration did not. Mean REs were the lowest formore » vinyl tile (50.8% with BAS, 40.2% with BG) and the highest for glass (92.8% with BAS, 71.4% with BG). FNR values ranged from 0 to 0.833 for BAS and 0 to 0.806 for BG, with values increasing as concentration decreased in the range tested (0.078 to 19.375 CFU/cm 2, where CFU denotes ‘colony forming units’). Surface material also had a statistically significant effect. A FNR-concentration curve was fit for each combination of surrogate and surface material. For both surrogates, the FNR curves tended to be the lowest for glass and highest for vinyl title. The FNR curves for BG tended to be higher than for BAS at lower concentrations, especially for glass. Results using a modified Rapid Viability-Polymerase Chain Reaction (mRV-PCR) analysis method were also obtained. The mRV-PCR results and comparisons to the culture results will be discussed in a subsequent report.« less

Method of producing a ceramic fiber-reinforced glass-ceramic matrix composite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bansal, Narottam P. (Inventor)

1994-01-01

A fiber-reinforced composite composed of a BaO-Al2O3-2SiO2 (BAS) glass ceramic matrix is reinforced with CVD silicon carbide continuous fibers. A slurry of BAS glass powders is prepared and celsian seeds are added during ball melting. The slurry is cast into tapes which are cut to the proper size. Continuous CVD-SiC fibers are formed into mats of the desired size. The matrix tapes and the fiber mats are alternately stacked in the proper orientation. This tape-mat stack is warm pressed to produce a 'green' composite. The 'green' composite is then heated to an elevated temperature to burn out organic constituents. The remaining interim material is then hot pressed to form a silicon carbide fiber-reinforced celsian (BAS) glass-ceramic matrix composite which may be machined to size.

TREATMENT OF METHYL TERT-BUTYL ETHER CONTAMINATED WATER USING PHOTOCATALYSIS

EPA Science Inventory

The feasibility of photo-oxidation treatment of methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) in water was investigated in three ways, 1) using a slurry falling film photo-reactor, 2) a batch solar reactor system, and 3) a combination of air-stripping and gas phase photooxidation system. MTBE-c...

40 CFR Table 3 to Subpart Cccc of... - Initial Compliance With Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... CATEGORIES National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Manufacturing of Nutritional Yeast Part... demonstrated initial compliance if . . . 1. Each fed-batch fermenter producing yeast in a fermentation stage... yeast in a fermentation stage (last (Trade), second-to-last (First Generation), or third-to-last (Stock...

40 CFR Table 4 to Subpart Cccc of... - Continuous Compliance With Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... CATEGORIES National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Manufacturing of Nutritional Yeast Part... yeast in a fermentation stage (last (Trade), second-to-last (First Generation), or third-to-last (Stock... the applicable maximum concentration. 2. Each fed-batch fermenter producing yeast in a fermentation...

Thermal and thermoelectric transport measurements of an individual boron arsenide microstructure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Jaehyun; Evans, Daniel A.; Sellan, Daniel P.; Williams, Owen M.; Ou, Eric; Cowley, Alan H.; Shi, Li

2016-05-01

Recent first principles calculations have predicted that boron arsenide (BAs) can possess an unexpectedly high thermal conductivity that depends sensitively on the crystal size and defect concentration. However, few experimental results have been obtained to verify these predictions. In the present work, we report four-probe thermal and thermoelectric transport measurements of an individual BAs microstructure that was synthesized via a vapor transport method. The measured thermal conductivity was found to decrease slightly with temperature in the range between 250 K and 350 K. The temperature dependence suggests that the extrinsic phonon scattering processes play an important role in addition to intrinsic phonon-phonon scattering. The room temperature value of (186 ± 46) W m-1 K-1 is higher than that of bulk silicon but still a factor of four lower than the calculated result for a defect-free, non-degenerate BAs rod with a similar diameter of 1.15 μm. The measured p-type Seebeck coefficient and thermoelectric power factor are comparable to those of bismuth telluride, which is a commonly used thermoelectric material. The foregoing results also suggest that it is necessary to not only reduce defect and boundary scatterings but also to better understand and control the electron scattering of phonons in order to achieve the predicted ultrahigh intrinsic lattice thermal conductivity of BAs.

Rabbit antithymocyte globulin is more beneficial in standard kidney than in extended donor recipients.

PubMed

Hardinger, Karen L; Brennan, Daniel C; Schnitzler, Mark A

2009-05-15

In a randomized, international study comparing rabbit antithymocyte globulin (TMG) and basiliximab (BAS) induction in renal transplant recipients at risk for delayed graft function or acute rejection (n=278), TMG was associated with less acute rejection at 1 year. This study analyzed outcomes stratified by standard criteria donor (SCD), extended criteria donor (ECD), and hypertensive donor. Data-capture limitations necessitated defining ECD as donor age more than 60 years or 50 to 60 years with hypertension and renal insufficiency. Seventy-five recipients received ECD-kidneys (28.4% TMG vs. 25.6% BAS, P=NS) and 203 recipients received SCD-kidneys (72.6% TMG vs. 74.4% BAS, P=NS). Recipients of an ECD or hypertensive donor-kidney had similar outcomes between treatment groups. Recipients of an SCD-kidney treated with TMG had less rejection (odds ratio [OR] 0.48). Recipients of a normotensive donor-kidney treated with TMG had less rejection (OR 0.56). Recipients of a normotensive, SCD-kidney treated with TMG had less rejection (OR 0.47) and death (OR 0.17) than their counterparts treated with BAS. Contrary to its perceived niche in recipients of ECD-kidneys, TMG was most beneficial in patients who received a normotensive, deceased SCD kidney.

A wide diversity of bacteria from the human gut produces and degrades biogenic amines.

PubMed

Pugin, Benoit; Barcik, Weronika; Westermann, Patrick; Heider, Anja; Wawrzyniak, Marcin; Hellings, Peter; Akdis, Cezmi A; O'Mahony, Liam

2017-01-01

Background : Biogenic amines (BAs) are metabolites produced by the decarboxylation of amino acids with significant physiological functions in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. BAs can be produced by bacteria in fermented foods, but little is known concerning the potential for microbes within the human gut microbiota to produce or degrade BAs. Objective : To isolate and identify BA-producing and BA-degrading microbes from the human gastrointestinal tract. Design : Fecal samples from human volunteers were screened on multiple growth media, under multiple growth conditions. Bacterial species were identified using 16S rRNA sequencing and BA production or degradation was assessed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography. Results : In total, 74 BA-producing or BA-degrading strains were isolated from the human gut. These isolates belong to the genera Bifidobacterium , Clostridium , Enterococcus , Lactobacillus , Pediococcus , Streptococcus , Enterobacter , Escherichia , Klebsiella , Morganella and Proteus . While differences in production or degradation of specific BAs were observed at the strain level, our results suggest that these metabolic activities are widely spread across different taxa present within the human gut microbiota. Conclusions : The isolation and identification of microbes from the human gut with BA-producing and BA-degrading metabolic activity is an important first step in developing a better understanding of how these metabolites influence health and disease.

[Perioperative management for open balloon atrial septostomy immediately after caesarean section in a baby with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and intact atrial septum].

PubMed

Yokoi, Nagisa; Toda, Yuichiro; Suzuki, Satoshi; Kanazawa, Tomoyuki; Suemori, Tomohiko; Shimizu, Kazuyoshi; Iwasaki, Tatsuo; Morita, Kiyoshi

2010-10-01

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) with intact atrial septum (IAS) is an extreme type of single ventricle physiology among congenital heart diseases, in which a baby cannot supply oxygenated blood into systemic circulation without alternative pathway. We report the case of the neonate undergoing open balloon atrial septostomy (BAS) and bilateral pulmonary artery banding (PAB) soon after scheduled caesarean sections (C/S). A 35-year-old female was pregnant and fetal echocardiography at 32 weeks revealed one of the twins as HLHS/IAS. Severe hypoxia soon after birth was suspected. Thus, scheduled C/S followed by open BAS was planned. At 36 weeks of gestation, the mother was anesthetized with spinal bupivacaine and the female baby with HLHS/IAS was delivered. After diagnosed definitely by pediatric cardiologists, her trachea was intubated by anesthegiologists and umbilical catheters were placed by neonatologists. Then the baby was transferred to neighboring operating theater for BAS 68 minutes after the birth, while her Sp(O2) was maintained around 75-85% through serial procedures. Open BAS and PAB were performed under general anesthesia without any hemodynamic instability or severe hypoxia. Cooperation among anesthegiologists, neonatologists, pediatric cardiologists, and cardiac surgeons is mandatory in order to successfully complete such a rushed procedure.

Inhibitory effect of carbon dioxide on the fed-batch culture of Ralstonia eutropha: evaluation by CO2 pulse injection and autogenous CO2 methods.

PubMed

Shang, Longan; Jiang, Min; Ryu, Chul Hee; Chang, Ho Nam; Cho, Soon Haeng; Lee, Jong Won

2003-08-05

In order to see the effect of CO(2) inhibition resulting from the use of pure oxygen, we carried out a comparative fed-batch culture study of polyhydroxybutyric acid (PHB) production by Ralstonia eutropha using air and pure oxygen in 5-L, 30-L, and 300-L fermentors. The final PHB concentrations obtained with pure O(2) were 138.7 g/L in the 5-L fermentor and 131.3 g/L in the 30-L fermentor, which increased 2.9 and 6.2 times, respectively, as compared to those obtained with air. In the 300-L fermentor, the fed-batch culture with air yielded only 8.4 g/L PHB. However, the maximal CO(2) concentrations in the 5-L fermentor increased significantly from 4.1% (air) to 15.0% (pure O(2)), while it was only 1.6% in the 30-L fermentor with air, but reached 14.2% in the case of pure O(2). We used two different experimental methods for evaluating CO(2) inhibition: CO(2) pulse injection and autogenous CO(2) methods. A 10 or 22% (v/v) CO(2) pulse with a duration of 3 or 6 h was introduced in a pure-oxygen culture of R. eutropha to investigate how CO(2) affects the synthesis of biomass and PHB. CO(2) inhibited the cell growth and PHB synthesis significantly. The inhibitory effect became stronger with the increase of the CO(2) concentration and pulse duration. The new proposed autogenous CO(2) method makes it possible to place microbial cells under different CO(2) level environments by varying the gas flow rate. Introduction of O(2) gas at a low flow rate of 0.42 vvm resulted in an increase of CO(2) concentration to 30.2% in the exit gas. The final PHB of 97.2 g/L was obtained, which corresponded to 70% of the PHB production at 1.0 vvm O(2) flow rate. This new method measures the inhibitory effect of CO(2) produced autogenously by cells through the entire fermentation process and can avoid the overestimation of CO(2) inhibition without introducing artificial CO(2) into the fermentor. Copyright 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biotechnol Bioeng 83: 312-320, 2003.

New emission controls for Missouri batch-type charcoal kilns

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

Yronwode, P.; Graf, W.J.

1999-07-01

Charcoal kilns have been exempted from air emission regulation in the state of Missouri. Today, 80% of US charcoal production takes place in Missouri. As a result of a petition filed by people in the area around an installation in southern Missouri, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set up air monitors and measured ambient air levels at that charcoal manufacturing installation. These monitors yielded the highest particulate matter less than 10 micron (PM{sub 10}) levels ever recorded in the state. Earlier stack testing at another charcoal manufacturing installation indicated that toxics and carcinogens are present in charcoal kiln airmore » emissions. A Charcoal Kiln Workgroup was formed to determine the Best Available Control Technology (BACT) for charcoal kilns and to draft a charcoal kiln rule that requires BACT. The BACT report determined that afterburners were suitable for controlling emissions from batch-type charcoal kilns. In addition, the charcoal industry supported incorporating the BACT limits and requirements into an enforceable state rule and submitting this rule to the EPA for federal approval. A consent agreement between the EPA and three major charcoal companies was signed with provisions to install, operate, and maintain emission control devices on charcoal kilns. This agreement was to settle complaints alleging that the three major charcoal producers had failed to report toxic air emissions to federal and state regulators. The agreement provided that industry would install control devices on a set schedule with some charcoal kilns being shut down.« less

Packing Optimization of Sorbent Bed Containing Dissimilar and Irregular Shaped Media

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Holland, Nathan; Guttromson, Jayleen; Piowaty, Hailey

2011-01-01

The Fire Cartridge is a packed bed air filter with two different and separate layers of media designed to provide respiratory protection from combustion products after a fire event on the International Space Station (ISS). The first layer of media is a carbon monoxide catalyst and the second layer of media is universal carbon. During development of Fire Cartridge prototypes, the two media beds were noticed to have shifted inside the cartridge. The movement of media within the cartridge can cause mixing of the bed layers, air voids, and channeling, which could cause preferential air flow and allow contaminants to pass through without removal. An optimally packed bed mitigates these risks and ensures effective removal of contaminants from the air. In order to optimally pack each layer, vertical, horizontal, and orbital agitations were investigated and a packed bulk density was calculated for each method. Packed bulk density must be calculated for each media type to accommodate variations in particle size, shape, and density. Additionally, the optimal vibration parameters must be re-evaluated for each batch of media due to variations in particle size distribution between batches. For this application it was determined that orbital vibrations achieve an optimal pack density and the two media layers can be packed by the same method. Another finding was media with a larger size distribution of particles achieve an optimal bed pack easier than media with a smaller size distribution of particles.

Fungi in cake production chain: Occurrence and evaluation of growth potential in different cake formulations during storage.

PubMed

Morassi, Letícia L P; Bernardi, Angélica O; Amaral, Alexandra L P M; Chaves, Rafael D; Santos, Juliana L P; Copetti, Marina V; Sant'Ana, Anderson S

2018-04-01

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and populations of fungi in cake production chain. Besides, the growth potential of twelve fungal strains in different cake formulations was evaluated. Raw materials from two different batches (n=143), chocolate cakes (n=30), orange cakes (n=20), and processing environment air samples (n=147) were analyzed. Among the raw materials, wheat flour (3.2±0.3 log CFU per g) and corn meal (3.8±0.8 log CFU per g) belonging to batch #1 showed significant higher fungal counts (p<0.05). The fungal counts in the processing environment air reached up to 2.56 log CFU per m 3 (p<0.05). The predominant fungi species in the industrialized cakes were Aspergillus flavus (28.15%), Penicillium citrinum (18.45%), Penicillium paxilli (14.56%), and Aspergillus niger (6.8%), which were also detected in the raw materials and processing environment air. Only Penicillium glabrum and Penicillium citrinum showed visible mycelium (>3mm) in the free of preservative cake formulation at 19th and 44th days of storage at 25°C, respectively. Revealing the biodiversity of fungi in ingredients, air and final products, as well as challenging final products with representative fungal strains may assist to implement effective controlling measures as well as to gather data for the development of more robust cake formulations. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

NATO Glossary of Abbreviations Used in NATO Documents and Publications (glossaire otan des abreviations utilisees dans les documents et publications otan)

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

télévision à bas niveau de lumière /TV BNL / [NASG] LMCC LOCE mobile communications centre [NASG] centre de communications mobile du LOCE [NASG...AC/224] équipe de soutien technique [STANAG 4607] T-12 AAP-15(2010) TV BNL TTBT télévision à bas niveau de lumière Threshold Test-Ban

Enabling VOLTTRON: Energy Management of Commercial Buildings at the University of Maryland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ebhojiaye, Itohan Omisi

Buildings waste approximately 30% of energy they consume due to inefficient HVAC and lighting operation. Building Automation Systems (BAS) can aid in reducing such wasted energy, but 90% of U.S. commercial buildings lack a BAS due to their high capital costs. This thesis demonstrates how VOLTTRON, an open source operating system developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, was used to disable the mechanical cooling of a rooftop unit (RTU) during unoccupied hours, on a building without a BAS. With cooling off, the RTU's electricity dropped from 18 kW to 7kW. These results indicate 450 to 550 can be saved on the monthly electric bill of the building during the summer, compared to when the RTU operated in cooling mode continuously. The installation cost of the equipment that enabled the RTU to be controlled via VOLTTRON was $6,400, thus the project has a payback period of 13 months.

Social Anxiety in Online and Real-Life Interaction and Their Associated Factors

PubMed Central

Yen, Ju-Yu; Yen, Cheng-Fang; Chen, Cheng-Sheng; Wang, Peng-Wei; Chang, Yi-Hsin

2012-01-01

Abstract Social anxiety was compared between online and real-life interaction in a sample of 2,348 college students. Severity of social anxiety in both real-life and online interaction was tested for associations with depression, Internet addiction, Internet activity type (gaming versus chatting), and scores on Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS)/Behavioral Activation System (BAS) scales. The results showed that social anxiety was lower when interacting online than when interacting offline. Depression, Internet addiction, and high BIS and BAS scores were associated with high social anxiety. The social anxiety decreased more in online interaction among subjects with high social anxiety, depression, BIS, and BAS. This result suggests that the Internet has good potential as an alternative medium for delivering interventions for social anxiety. Further, the effect of BIS on social anxiety is decreased in online interaction. More attention should be paid for BIS when the treatment for social anxiety is delivered online. PMID:22175853

Social anxiety in online and real-life interaction and their associated factors.

PubMed

Yen, Ju-Yu; Yen, Cheng-Fang; Chen, Cheng-Sheng; Wang, Peng-Wei; Chang, Yi-Hsin; Ko, Chih-Hung

2012-01-01

Social anxiety was compared between online and real-life interaction in a sample of 2,348 college students. Severity of social anxiety in both real-life and online interaction was tested for associations with depression, Internet addiction, Internet activity type (gaming versus chatting), and scores on Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS)/Behavioral Activation System (BAS) scales. The results showed that social anxiety was lower when interacting online than when interacting offline. Depression, Internet addiction, and high BIS and BAS scores were associated with high social anxiety. The social anxiety decreased more in online interaction among subjects with high social anxiety, depression, BIS, and BAS. This result suggests that the Internet has good potential as an alternative medium for delivering interventions for social anxiety. Further, the effect of BIS on social anxiety is decreased in online interaction. More attention should be paid for BIS when the treatment for social anxiety is delivered online.

Influence of trait behavioral inhibition and behavioral approach motivation systems on the LPP and frontal asymmetry to anger pictures.

PubMed

Gable, Philip A; Poole, Bryan D

2014-02-01

Behavioral approach and avoidance are fundamental to the experience of emotion and motivation, but the motivational system associated with anger is not well established. Some theories posit that approach motivational processes underlie anger, whereas others posit that avoidance motivational processes underlie anger. The current experiment sought to address whether traits related to behavioral approach or avoidance influence responses to anger stimuli using multiple measures: ERP, electroencephalographic (EEG) α-asymmetry and self-report. After completing the behavioral inhibition system/behavioral approach system (BIS/BAS) scales, participants viewed anger pictures and neutral pictures. BAS predicted larger late positive potentials (LPPs) to anger pictures, but not to neutral pictures. In addition, BAS predicted greater left-frontal asymmetry to anger pictures. Moreover, larger LPPs to anger pictures related to greater left-frontal EEG asymmetry during anger pictures. These results suggest that trait approach motivation relates to neurophysiological responses of anger.

Influence of trait behavioral inhibition and behavioral approach motivation systems on the LPP and frontal asymmetry to anger pictures

PubMed Central

Poole, Bryan D.

2014-01-01

Behavioral approach and avoidance are fundamental to the experience of emotion and motivation, but the motivational system associated with anger is not well established. Some theories posit that approach motivational processes underlie anger, whereas others posit that avoidance motivational processes underlie anger. The current experiment sought to address whether traits related to behavioral approach or avoidance influence responses to anger stimuli using multiple measures: ERP, electroencephalographic (EEG) α-asymmetry and self-report. After completing the behavioral inhibition system/behavioral approach system (BIS/BAS) scales, participants viewed anger pictures and neutral pictures. BAS predicted larger late positive potentials (LPPs) to anger pictures, but not to neutral pictures. In addition, BAS predicted greater left-frontal asymmetry to anger pictures. Moreover, larger LPPs to anger pictures related to greater left-frontal EEG asymmetry during anger pictures. These results suggest that trait approach motivation relates to neurophysiological responses of anger. PMID:23175676

On the differentiation of N2 components in an appetitive choice task: evidence for the revised Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory.

PubMed

Leue, Anja; Chavanon, Mira-Lynn; Wacker, Jan; Stemmler, Gerhard

2009-11-01

Task- and personality-related modulations of the N2 were probed within the framework of the revised Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory (RST). Using an appetitive choice task, we investigated 58 students with extreme scores on the behavioral inhibition system and behavioral approach system (BIS/BAS) scales. The baseline-to-peak N2 amplitude was sensitive to the strength of decision conflict and demonstrated RST-related personality differences. In addition to the baseline N2 amplitude, temporal PCA results suggested two N2 components accounting for a laterality effect and capturing different N2 patterns for BIS/BAS groups with increasing conflict level. Evidence for RST-related personality differences was obtained for baseline-to-peak N2 and tPCA components in the present task. The results support the RST prediction that BAS sensitivity modulates conflict processing and confirm the cognitive-motivational conflict concept of RST.

Doença cística da adventícia na veia basílica: relato de caso

PubMed Central

Vasconcelos, Rafael Sampaio; Cherubim, Cesar Augusto; França, Felipe Mavignier Pereira; D'allacqua, Eduardo de Lucca; Dalio, Marcelo Bellini; Joviliano, Edwaldo Edner

2016-01-01

Resumo A doença cística da adventícia é uma entidade rara que acomete principalmente a artéria poplítea. A ocorrência em veias é muito rara, e sua etiologia é desconhecida. Clinicamente, apresenta-se como isquemia, trombose ou dor a depender do território acometido. Apresentamos o caso de um paciente masculino jovem referindo nódulo no braço esquerdo. A angiorressonância magnética do membro mostrou lesão cística em contato com a veia basílica, com conteúdo homogêneo e sem realce pós-contraste. Foi realizada ressecção da lesão em bloco com o segmento venoso envolvido. O estudo anatomopatológico foi sugestivo de cisto de adventícia de veia basílica.

40 CFR 63.2525 - What records must I keep?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Miscellaneous Organic Chemical Manufacturing Notification, Reports... because the non-reactive organic HAP is the only HAP and usage is less than 10,000 lb/yr, as specified in... report that total uncontrolled organic HAP emissions from the batch process vents in an MCPU will be less...

40 CFR 63.2525 - What records must I keep?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

...) National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Miscellaneous Organic Chemical Manufacturing... because the non-reactive organic HAP is the only HAP and usage is less than 10,000 lb/yr, as specified in... report that total uncontrolled organic HAP emissions from the batch process vents in an MCPU will be less...

40 CFR 63.2525 - What records must I keep?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Miscellaneous Organic Chemical Manufacturing Notification, Reports... because the non-reactive organic HAP is the only HAP and usage is less than 10,000 lb/yr, as specified in... report that total uncontrolled organic HAP emissions from the batch process vents in an MCPU will be less...

40 CFR 1065.546 - Validation of minimum dilution ratio for PM batch sampling.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... the raw exhaust flow rate based on the measured intake air molar flow rate and the chemical balance..., fuel rate measurements, and fuel properties, consistent with good engineering judgment. (b) Determine...) and dilute exhaust corrected for any removed water. (c) Use good engineering judgment to develop your...

40 CFR 63.2455 - What requirements must I meet for continuous process vents?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... CATEGORIES National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Miscellaneous Organic Chemical... any continuous process vent that is combined with Group 1 batch process vents before a control device or recovery device because the requirements of § 63.2450(c)(2)(i) apply to the combined stream. (2...

A high-fidelity, six-degree-of-freedom batch simulation environment for tactical guidance research and evaluation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goodrich, Kenneth H.

1993-01-01

A batch air combat simulation environment, the tactical maneuvering simulator (TMS), is presented. The TMS is a tool for developing and evaluating tactical maneuvering logics, but it can also be used to evaluate the tactical implications of perturbations to aircraft performance or supporting systems. The TMS can simulate air combat between any number of engagement participants, with practical limits imposed by computer memory and processing power. Aircraft are modeled using equations of motion, control laws, aerodynamics, and propulsive characteristics equivalent to those used in high-fidelity piloted simulations. Data bases representative of a modern high-performance aircraft with and without thrust-vectoring capability are included. To simplify the task of developing and implementing maneuvering logics in the TMS, an outer-loop control system, the tactical autopilot (TA), is implemented in the aircraft simulation model. The TA converts guidance commands by computerized maneuvering logics from desired angle of attack and wind-axis bank-angle inputs to the inner loop control augmentation system of the aircraft. The capabilities and operation of the TMS and the TA are described.

SOCMA study urges flexibility

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

Kirschner, E.

In implementing the 1990 Pollution Prevention Act, regulators and legislators should hold off on cookie-cutter, numerical goal-based requirements to allow for site and process specific programs, says a study sponsored by the Synthetic Organic Chemicals Manufacturers Association (SOCMA; Washington). Companies should have that flexibility to target their resources toward those activities that reduce pollution cost effectively, says SOCMA environmental quality committee chairman Art Gillen, who is also BASF director of environmental regulatory affairs. The study - conducted by Woodward-Clyde Consultants (Denver) - examines four batch and custom chemical manufacturing films. As in the Clean Air Act, the batch processing ofmore » SOCMA-member plants should be considered in new regulations, Gillen says. For example, the study found that most wastes are from shutdowns and cleanouts, and there are frequent charges in waste streams and raw materials. Those characteristics do not lend themselves to annual reduction goals. Also, specific goals could have a wide range of costs: measures to reduce stack air emissions run from $18/lb to $1,106/lb. SOCMA says it will present the study to Congress and the Environmental Protection Agency.« less

Microanalytical identification of barium sulphate crystals in statoliths of Chara Rhizoids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schroeter, K.; Lauchli, A.; Sievers, A. J.

1979-01-01

In contrast to higher plants, Chara rhizoids contain statolith vacuoles filled with biocrystallites of BaS04 in the form of rods composed of globular subunits ca. 7 nm in diameter. The revelation of the crystallites under electron microscopy is dependent on the fixative; best structural preservation was observed after fixation in a buffered glutaraldehyde + acrolein solution; 0s04 and KMnO4 partially dissolved both the biocrystallites and synthetic BaS04.

The Eleventh Quadrennial Review of Military Compensation. Supporting Research Papers

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-06-01

value. 4. BAH + BAS is roughly equal to expenditures for housing and food for servicemembers.22 In the first phase of the formal model, we further...assume that taxes, housing, and food are the only basic living expenses. Then, in the next phase, we include estimates of noncash benefits not included...assumption 4 with assumption 2 implies that civilian housing and food expenses are also equal to military BAH and BAS. However, civilian housing and food

Behavioral approach and orbitofrontal cortical activity during decision-making in substance dependence.

PubMed

Yamamoto, Dorothy J; Banich, Marie T; Regner, Michael F; Sakai, Joseph T; Tanabe, Jody

2017-11-01

Behavioral approach, defined as behavior directed toward a reward or novel stimulus, when elevated, may increase one's vulnerability to substance use disorder. Behavioral approach has been associated with relatively greater left compared to right frontal activity; behavioral inhibition may be associated with relatively greater right compared to left frontal brain activity. We hypothesized that substance dependent individuals (SDI) would have higher behavioral approach than controls and greater prefrontal cortical activity during decision-making involving reward. We hypothesized that behavioral approach would correlate with left frontal activity during decision-making and that the correlation would be stronger in SDI than controls. 31 SDI and 21 controls completed the Behavioral Inhibition System/Behavioral Approach System (BIS/BAS) scales and performed a decision-making task during fMRI. Orbitofrontal (OFC) and dorsolateral prefrontal activity were correlated with BIS and BAS scores. Compared to controls, SDI had higher BAS Fun Seeking scores (p<0.001) and worse decision-making performance (p=0.004). BAS Fun Seeking correlated with left OFC activity during decision-making across group (r=0.444, p<0.003). The correlation did not differ by group. There was no correlation between BIS and right frontal activity. Left OFC may play a role in reward-related decision-making in substance use disorder especially in individuals with high behavioral approach. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Thermal and thermoelectric transport measurements of an individual boron arsenide microstructure

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

Kim, Jaehyun; Sellan, Daniel P.; Ou, Eric

2016-05-16

Recent first principles calculations have predicted that boron arsenide (BAs) can possess an unexpectedly high thermal conductivity that depends sensitively on the crystal size and defect concentration. However, few experimental results have been obtained to verify these predictions. In the present work, we report four-probe thermal and thermoelectric transport measurements of an individual BAs microstructure that was synthesized via a vapor transport method. The measured thermal conductivity was found to decrease slightly with temperature in the range between 250 K and 350 K. The temperature dependence suggests that the extrinsic phonon scattering processes play an important role in addition to intrinsic phonon-phononmore » scattering. The room temperature value of (186 ± 46) W m{sup −1 }K{sup −1} is higher than that of bulk silicon but still a factor of four lower than the calculated result for a defect-free, non-degenerate BAs rod with a similar diameter of 1.15 μm. The measured p-type Seebeck coefficient and thermoelectric power factor are comparable to those of bismuth telluride, which is a commonly used thermoelectric material. The foregoing results also suggest that it is necessary to not only reduce defect and boundary scatterings but also to better understand and control the electron scattering of phonons in order to achieve the predicted ultrahigh intrinsic lattice thermal conductivity of BAs.« less

Body weight status, eating behavior, sensitivity to reward/punishment, and gender: relationships and interdependencies

PubMed Central

Dietrich, Anja; Federbusch, Martin; Grellmann, Claudia; Villringer, Arno; Horstmann, Annette

2014-01-01

Behavioral and personality characteristics are factors that may jointly regulate body weight. This study explored the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and self-reported behavioral and personality measures. These measures included eating behavior (based on the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire; Stunkard and Messick, 1985), sensitivity to reward and punishment (based on the Behavioral Inhibition System/Behavioral Activation System (BIS/BAS) scales) (Carver and White, 1994) and self-reported impulsivity (based on the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11; Patton et al., 1995). We found an inverted U-shaped relationship between restrained eating and BMI. This relationship was moderated by the level of disinhibited eating. Independent of eating behavior, BIS and BAS responsiveness were associated with BMI in a gender-specific manner with negative relationships for men and positive relationships for women. Together, eating behavior and BIS/BAS responsiveness accounted for a substantial proportion of BMI variance (men: ∼25%, women: ∼32%). A direct relationship between self-reported impulsivity and BMI was not observed. In summary, our results demonstrate a system of linear and non-linear relationships between the investigated factors and BMI. Moreover, body weight status was not only associated with eating behavior (cognitive restraint and disinhibition), but also with personality factors not inherently related to an eating context (BIS/BAS). Importantly, these relationships differ between men and women. PMID:25368586

Streamflow generation in humid West Africa: the role of Bas-fonds investigated with a physically based model of the Critical Zone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hector, B.; Cohard, J. M.; Séguis, L.

2015-12-01

In West Africa, the drought initiated in the 70's-80's together with intense land-use change due to increasing food demand produced very contrasted responses on water budgets of the critical zone (CZ) depending on the lithological and pedological contexts. In Sahel, streamflow increased, mostly due to increasing hortonian runoff from soil crusting, and so did groundwater storage. On the contrary, in the more humid southern Sudanian area, streamflow decreased and no clear signal has been observed concerning water storage in this hard-rock basement area. There, Bas-fonds are fundamental landscape features. They are seasonally water-logged valley bottoms from which first order streams originate, mostly composed of baseflow. They are a key feature for understanding streamflow generation processes. They also carry an important agronomic potential due to their moisture and nutrient availability. The role of Bas-fond in streamflow generation processes is investigated using a physically-based coupled model of the CZ, ParFlow-CLM at catchment scale (10km²). The model is evaluated against classical hydrological measurements (water table, soil moisture, streamflow, fluxes), acquired in the AMMA-CATCH observing system for the West African monsoon, but also hybrid gravity data which measure integrated water storage changes. The bas-fond system is shown to be composed of two components with different time scales. The slow component is characterized by the seasonal and interannual amplitude of the permanent water table, which is disconnected from streams, fed by direct recharge and lowered by evapotranspiration, mostly from riparian areas. The fast component is characterized by thresholds in storage and perched and permanent water tables surrounding the bas-fond during the wet season, which are linked with baseflow generation. This is a first step toward integrating these features into larger scale modeling of the critical zone for evaluating the effect of precipitation intensification and land use changes scenarios in the area.

T-BAS: Tree-Based Alignment Selector toolkit for phylogenetic-based placement, alignment downloads and metadata visualization: an example with the Pezizomycotina tree of life.

PubMed

Carbone, Ignazio; White, James B; Miadlikowska, Jolanta; Arnold, A Elizabeth; Miller, Mark A; Kauff, Frank; U'Ren, Jana M; May, Georgiana; Lutzoni, François

2017-04-15

High-quality phylogenetic placement of sequence data has the potential to greatly accelerate studies of the diversity, systematics, ecology and functional biology of diverse groups. We developed the Tree-Based Alignment Selector (T-BAS) toolkit to allow evolutionary placement and visualization of diverse DNA sequences representing unknown taxa within a robust phylogenetic context, and to permit the downloading of highly curated, single- and multi-locus alignments for specific clades. In its initial form, T-BAS v1.0 uses a core phylogeny of 979 taxa (including 23 outgroup taxa, as well as 61 orders, 175 families and 496 genera) representing all 13 classes of largest subphylum of Fungi-Pezizomycotina (Ascomycota)-based on sequence alignments for six loci (nr5.8S, nrLSU, nrSSU, mtSSU, RPB1, RPB2 ). T-BAS v1.0 has three main uses: (i) Users may download alignments and voucher tables for members of the Pezizomycotina directly from the reference tree, facilitating systematics studies of focal clades. (ii) Users may upload sequence files with reads representing unknown taxa and place these on the phylogeny using either BLAST or phylogeny-based approaches, and then use the displayed tree to select reference taxa to include when downloading alignments. The placement of unknowns can be performed for large numbers of Sanger sequences obtained from fungal cultures and for alignable, short reads of environmental amplicons. (iii) User-customizable metadata can be visualized on the tree. T-BAS Version 1.0 is available online at http://tbas.hpc.ncsu.edu . Registration is required to access the CIPRES Science Gateway and NSF XSEDE's large computational resources. icarbon@ncsu.edu. Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com

Effect of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery on Bile Acid Metabolism in Normal and Obese Diabetic Rats

PubMed Central

Bhutta, Hina Y; Rajpal, Neetu; White, Wendy; Freudenberg, Johannes M.; Liu, Yaping; Way, James; Rajpal, Deepak; Cooper, David C.; Young, Andrew; Tavakkoli, Ali; Chen, Lihong

2015-01-01

In addition to classic functions of facilitating hepatobiliary secretion and intestinal absorption of lipophilic nutrients, bile acids (BA) are also endocrine factors and regulate glucose and lipid metabolism. Recent data indicate that antiobesity bariatric procedures e.g. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery (RYGB), which also remit diabetes, increase plasma BAs in humans, leading to the hypothesis that BAs may play a role in diabetes resolution following surgery. To investigate the effect of RYGB on BA physiology and its relationship with glucose homeostasis, we undertook RYGB and SHAM surgery in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) and normoglycemic Sprague Dawley (SD) rats and measured plasma and fecal BA levels, as well as plasma glucose, insulin, Glucagon like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and Peptide YY (PYY), 2 days before and 3, 7, 14 and 28 days after surgery. RYGB decreased body weight and increased plasma GLP-1 in both SD and ZDF rats while decreasing plasma insulin and glucose in ZDF rats starting from the first week. Compared to SHAM groups, both SD-RYGB and ZDF-RYGB groups started to have increases in plasma total BAs in the second week, which might not contribute to early post-surgery metabolic changes. While there was no significant difference in fecal BA excretion between SD-RYGB and SD-SHAM groups, the ZDF-RYGB group had a transient 4.2-fold increase (P<0.001) in 24-hour fecal BA excretion on post-operative day 3 compared to ZDF-SHAM, which paralleled a significant increase in plasma PYY. Ratios of plasma and fecal cholic acid/chenodeoxycholic acid derived BAs were decreased in RYGB groups. In addition, tissue mRNA expression analysis suggested early intestinal BA reabsorption and potentially reduced hepatic cholic acid production in RYGB groups. In summary, we present novel data on RYGB-mediated changes in BA metabolism to further understand the role of BAs in RYGB-induced metabolic effects in humans. PMID:25798945

Colesevelam attenuates cholestatic liver and bile duct injury in Mdr2-/- mice by modulating composition, signalling and excretion of faecal bile acids.

PubMed

Fuchs, Claudia Daniela; Paumgartner, Gustav; Mlitz, Veronika; Kunczer, Victoria; Halilbasic, Emina; Leditznig, Nadja; Wahlström, Annika; Ståhlman, Marcus; Thüringer, Andrea; Kashofer, Karl; Stojakovic, Tatjana; Marschall, Hanns-Ulrich; Trauner, Michael

2018-04-10

Interruption of the enterohepatic circulation of bile acids (BAs) may protect against BA-mediated cholestatic liver and bile duct injury. BA sequestrants are established to treat cholestatic pruritus, but their impact on the underlying cholestasis is still unclear. We aimed to explore the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of the BA sequestrant colesevelam in a mouse model of sclerosing cholangitis. Mdr2 -/- mice received colesevelam for 8 weeks. Gene expression profiles of BA homeostasis, inflammation and fibrosis were explored in liver, intestine and colon. Hepatic and faecal BA profiles and gut microbiome were analysed. Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) levels in portal blood were measured by ELISA. Furthermore, Mdr2 -/- mice as well as wild-type 3,5-diethoxy-carbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine-fed mice were treated with GLP-1-receptor agonist exendin-4 for 2 weeks prior to analysis. Colesevelam reduced serum liver enzymes, BAs and expression of proinflammatory and profibrogenic markers. Faecal BA profiling revealed increased levels of secondary BAs after resin treatment, while hepatic and biliary BA composition showed a shift towards more hydrophilic BAs. Colonic GLP-1 secretion, portal venous GLP-1 levels and intestinal messenger RNA expression of gut hormone Proglucagon were increased, while ileal Fgf15 expression was abolished by colesevelam. Exendin-4 treatment increased bile duct mass without promoting a reactive cholangiocyte phenotype in mouse models of sclerosing cholangitis. Microbiota analysis showed an increase of the phylum δ-Proteobacteria after colesevelam treatment and a shift within the phyla Firmicutes from Clostridiales to Lactobacillus . Colesevelam increases faecal BA excretion and enhances BA conversion towards secondary BAs, thereby stimulating secretion of GLP-1 from enteroendocrine L-cells and attenuates liver and bile duct injury in Mdr2 -/- mice. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Sensitivity to reward is associated with snack and sugar-sweetened beverage consumption in adolescents.

PubMed

De Cock, Nathalie; Van Lippevelde, Wendy; Vervoort, Leentje; Vangeel, Jolien; Maes, Lea; Eggermont, Steven; Braet, Caroline; Lachat, Carl; Huybregts, Lieven; Goossens, Lien; Beullens, Kathleen; Kolsteren, Patrick; Van Camp, John

2016-06-01

High intake of palatable foods, such as energy-dense snacks and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), is common among adolescents. An individual's sensitivity to reward (SR) may influence these intakes. The main objective of this study was to investigate the association between SR and both snack and SSB intake among adolescents. A representative cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1104 14- to 16-year-olds (mean age = 14.7 ± 0.8 years; 50.9 % boys; 18.0 % overweight) in Flanders. Daily intakes were measured by a food frequency questionnaire. SR was assessed using the behavioral activation system (BAS) scales. Multilevel regression analyses (two level: adolescent school) were conducted using STATA version 13. BAS drive was positively associated with daily intakes of SSBs (13.79 %, p < 0.01), unhealthy snacks (5.42 %, p < 0.001), and energy and nutrients derived from SSBs (p < 0.001) and snacks (p < 0.01). BAS reward responsiveness (RR) was only positively associated with intake of unhealthy snacks (3.85 %, p < 0.05), healthy snacks (6.41 %, p < 0.05), and fat (4.05 %, p < 0.01) and Na (3.89 %, p < 0.05) from snacks. Interaction effects of gender and BAS RR (p < 0.05) were found. Significant positive associations between BAS RR and daily intakes of energy from snacks (6.48 %, p < 0.01) and fat from snacks (7.22 %, p < 0.001) were found only for girls. SR was associated with snack and SSB consumption in adolescents, especially in girls. These findings suggest that SR should be taken into account when designing interventions to improve the snack and SSB intake of adolescents.

Laser induced fluorescence of BaS: Sm phosphor and energy level splitting of Sm 3+ ion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thomas, Reethamma; Nampoori, V. P. N.

1990-03-01

Fluorescence of BaS: Sm phosphor has been studied using a pulsed Nitrogen laser (337.1 nm) as the excitation source. The spectrum consists of a broad band in the region 540-660nm superposed by the characteristic Sm 3+ lines. Energy level splitting pattern of Sm 3+ due to crystal field effects has been calculated and relevent field parameters are evaluated. Analysis shows that Sm 3+ takes up Ba 2+ substitutional sites.

On-line catalogs of solar energetic protons at SRTI-BAS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miteva, R.; Danov, D.

2017-08-01

We outline the status of the on-line catalogs of solar energetic particles supported by the Space Climate group at the Space Research and Technology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (SRTI-BAS). In addition to the already compiled proton catalog from Wind/EPACT instrument, in the current report we present preliminary results on the high energy SOHO/ERNE proton enhancement identifications as well as comparative analysis with two other proton lists. The future plans for the on-line catalogs are briefly summarized.

The Effects of Repeated Low-Dose Sarin Exposure

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-08-01

support the idea that there is a triphasic NT model for onset and progression of seizures and subsequent brain damage upon acute exposure to OP ChE...An ACh microbore column (1x530 mm ID, 10 µm UniJet, BAS #MF-8904) coupled with AChE/choline oxidase immobilized enzyme reactor (BAS # MF-8903) was...peroxidase to the electrode for the reduction of hydrogen peroxide that was generated from the immobilized enzyme reactor . The detector was set at (-)1.0

[Determination of tungsten and cobalt in the air of workplace by ICP-OES].

PubMed

Zhang, J; Ding, C G; Li, H B; Song, S; Yan, H F

2017-08-20

Objective: To establish the inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) method for determination of cobalt and tungsten in the air of workplace. Methods: The cobalt and tungsten were collected by filter membrane and then digested by nitric acid, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) was used for the detection of cobalt and tungsten. Results: The linearity of tungsten was good at the range of 0.01-1 000 μg/ml with a correlation coefficient of 0.999 9, the LOD and LOQ were 0.006 7 μg/ml and 0.022 μg/ml, respectively. The recovery was ranged from 98%-101%, the RSD of intra-and inter-batch precision were 1.1%-3.0% and 2.1%-3.8%, respectively. The linearity of cobalt was good at the range of 0.01-100 μg/ml with a correlation coefficient of 0.999 9, the LOD and LOQ were 0.001 2 μg/ml and 0.044 μg/ml, respectively. The recovery was ranged from 95%-97%, the RSD of intra-and inter-batch precision were 1.1%-2.4% and 1.1%-2.9%, respectively. The sampling efficiency of tungsten and cobalt were higher than 94%. Conclusion: The linear range, sensitivity and precision of the method was suitable for the detection of tungsten and cobalt in the air of workplace.

40 CFR 63.464 - Alternative standards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... (a)(2) of this section. (1) If the cleaning machine has a solvent/air interface, as defined in § 63... cleaning machines 153 New in-line solvent cleaning machines 99 (2) If the cleaning machine is a batch vapor... requirements specified in paragraphs (a)(2)(i) and (a)(2)(ii) of this section. (i) Maintain a log of solvent...

40 CFR 63.464 - Alternative standards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... (a)(2) of this section. (1) If the cleaning machine has a solvent/air interface, as defined in § 63... cleaning machines 153 New in-line solvent cleaning machines 99 (2) If the cleaning machine is a batch vapor... requirements specified in paragraphs (a)(2)(i) and (a)(2)(ii) of this section. (i) Maintain a log of solvent...

Making environmental health interesting for medical students-internet assisted facilitated collaborative learning approach.

PubMed

Sudharsanam, Manni Balasubramaniam

2014-01-01

Topics on environmental health are usually neglected by students and it is necessary for them to learn this area with a public health perspective as environment plays a vital role in multi-factorial causation of diseases. Hence there is a need for alternative teaching/learning methods to facilitate students in acquiring the required knowledge. To increase the student interest and enhance their participation in acquiring knowledge in public health perspective of environmental health. Teaching Objectives/Learning Were: At the end of the session students should know the importance of air as an environmental factor in disease causation in special reference to public health hazards, the major sources of air pollution, major pollutants causing the health hazards, the way to measure pollutants and control them. The whole class of students was divided into two batches and one session was planned for each batch. Each batch was divided into six small groups. The groups were given task of exploring the internet on the different topics mentioned in the learning objectives. All the students were asked to explore, compile information and collectively prepare a presentation and present their findings based on their reviews. Students' feedback was collected at the end of each session. Eighty five percent of them were clear about the learning objectives and interested about internet learning. Most of them gave a positive opinion about the newer teaching learning method. Internet assisted group study served as a valuable alternative, innovative, and interesting tool to teach and learn the environmental health as revealed by students' feedback.

Bacterial Adhesion under Static and Dynamic Conditions

PubMed Central

Rijnaarts, Huub H. M.; Norde, Willem; Bouwer, Edward J.; Lyklema, Johannes; Zehnder, Alexander J. B.

1993-01-01

The deposition of various pseudomonads and coryneform bacteria with different hydrophobicities (water contact angles) and negative cell surface charges on negatively charged Teflon and glass surfaces was investigated. The levels of deposition varied between 5.0 × 104 and 1.6 × 107 cells cm-2 and between 5.0 × 104 and 3.6 × 107 cells cm-2 for dynamic column and static batch systems, respectively, indicating that there was a wide variation in physicochemical interactions. Batch and column results were compared in order to better distinguish between hydrodynamic and other system-dependent influences and method-independent physicochemical interactions. Despite the shorter suspension-solid contact time in columns (1 h) than in batch systems (4 h), the level of deposition (expressed as the number of cells that adhered) divided by the applied ambient cell concentration was 4.12 ± 1.63 times higher in columns than in batch sytems for 15 of 22 strain-surface combinations studied. This demonstrates that transport of microbial particles from bulk liquid to surfaces is more efficient in dynamic columns (transport dominated by convection and diffusion) than in static batch systems (transport by diffusion only). The relative constancy of this ratio for the 15 combinations shows that physicochemical interactions affect adhesion similarly in the two systems. The deviating deposition behavior of the other seven strain-surface combinations could be attributed to method-dependent effects resulting from specific cell characteristics (e.g., to the presence of capsular polymers, to an ability to aggregate, to large cell sizes, or to a tendency to desorb after passage through an air-liquid interface). Images PMID:16349063

Factor structure and psychometric properties of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 among adolescents and young adults in Danish, Portuguese, and Swedish.

PubMed

Lemoine, J E; Konradsen, H; Lunde Jensen, A; Roland-Lévy, C; Ny, P; Khalaf, A; Torres, S

2018-05-14

In recent years, the study of body image shifted from focusing on the negative aspects to a more extensive view of body image. The present study seeks to validate a measure of positive body image, the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2; Tylka & Wood-Barcalow, 2015a) in Denmark, Portugal, and Sweden. Participants (N = 1012) were adolescents and young adults aged from 12 to 19. Confirmatory factor analyses confirmed the one-dimensional factor structure of the scale. Multi-group confirmatory factor analyses indicated that the scale was invariant across sex and country. Further results showed that BAS-2 was positively correlated with self-esteem, psychological well-being, and intuitive eating. It was negatively correlated with BMI among boys and girls in Portugal but not in Denmark and Sweden. Additionally, boys had higher body appreciation than girls. Results indicated that the BAS-2 has good psychometric properties in the three languages. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Green tea flavour determinants and their changes over manufacturing processes.

PubMed

Han, Zhuo-Xiao; Rana, Mohammad M; Liu, Guo-Feng; Gao, Ming-Jun; Li, Da-Xiang; Wu, Fu-Guang; Li, Xin-Bao; Wan, Xiao-Chun; Wei, Shu

2016-12-01

Flavour determinants in tea infusions and their changes during manufacturing processes were studied using Camellia sinensis cultivars 'Bai-Sang Cha' ('BAS') possessing significant floral scents and 'Fuding-Dabai Cha' ('FUD') with common green tea odour. Metabolite profiling based on odour activity threshold revealed that 'BAS' contained higher levels of the active odorants β-ionone, linalool and its two oxides, geraniol, epoxylinalool, decanal and taste determinant catechins than 'FUD' (p<0.05). Enhanced transcription of some terpenoid and catechin biosynthetic genes in 'BAS' suggested genetically enhanced production of those flavour compounds. Due to manufacturing processes, the levels of linalool and geraniol decreased whereas those of β-ionone, linalool oxides, indole and cis-jasmone increased. Compared with pan-fire treatment, steam treatment reduced the levels of catechins and proportion of geraniol, linalool and its derivatives, consequently, reducing catechin-related astringency and monoterpenol-related floral scent. Our study suggests that flavour determinant targeted modulation could be made through genotype and manufacturing improvements. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Comparison of Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory Measures: Unique Associations With Social Interaction Anxiety and Social Observation Anxiety.

PubMed

Kramer, Sam L; Rodriguez, Benjamin F

2018-07-01

Evidence suggests that the behavior inhibition system (BIS) and fight-flight-freeze system play a role in the individual differences seen in social anxiety disorder; however, findings concerning the role of the behavior approach system (BAS) have been mixed. To date, the role of revised reinforcement sensitivity theory (RST) subsystems underlying social anxiety has been measured with scales designed for the original RST. This study examined how the BIS, BAS, and fight, flight, freeze components of the fight-flight-freeze system uniquely relate to social interaction anxiety and social observation anxiety using both a measure specifically designed for the revised RST and a commonly used original RST measure. Comparison of regression analyses with the Jackson-5 and the commonly used BIS/BAS Scales revealed important differences in the relationships between RST subsystems and social anxiety depending on how RST was assessed. Limitations and future directions for revised RST measurement are discussed.

Translation and psychometric evaluation of a Standard Chinese version of the Body Appreciation Scale-2.

PubMed

Swami, Viren; Ng, Siu-Kuen; Barron, David

2016-09-01

The present study examined the factorial and construct validity of a Standard Chinese translation of the Body Appreciation Scale (BAS-2; Tylka & Wood-Barcalow, 2015b). Participants were 191 women and 154 men from mainland China who were resident in Hong Kong at the time of recruitment. Results of confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the one-dimensional model of the BAS-2, in which all 10 items loaded onto the same factor, had adequate fit, and was invariant across sex. Body appreciation scores had good internal consistency and were significantly correlated with self-esteem and life satisfaction, and, in women, with weight discrepancy and body mass index. There were no significant differences in body appreciation scores between women and men. The present findings suggest that the Standard Chinese translation of the BAS-2 has the same one-dimensional factor structure as its parent scale and may facilitate cross-cultural studies of positive body image. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

False recall in the Deese–Roediger–McDermott paradigm: The roles of gist and associative strength

PubMed Central

Cann, David R.; McRae, Ken; Katz, Albert N.

2011-01-01

Theories of false memories, particularly in the Deese–Roediger–McDermott (DRM) paradigm, focus on word association strength and gist. Backward associative strength (BAS) is a strong predictor of false recall in this paradigm. However, other than being defined as a measure of association between studied list words and falsely recalled nonpresented critical words, there is little understanding of this variable. In Experiment 1, we used a knowledge-type taxonomy to classify the semantic relations in DRM stimuli. These knowledge types predicted false-recall probability, as well as BAS itself, with the most important being situation features, synonyms, and taxonomic relations. In three subsequent experiments, we demonstrated that lists composed solely of situation features can elicit a gist and produce false memories, particularly when monitoring processes are made more difficult. Our results identify the semantic factors that underlie BAS and suggest how considering semantic relations leads to a better understanding of gist formation. PMID:21506047

Reinforcement Sensitivity and Risk for Psychopathology Following Exposure to Violence: A Vulnerability-Specificity Model in Latino Youth

PubMed Central

Gudiño, Omar G.; Nadeem, Erum; Kataoka, Sheryl H.; Lau, Anna S.

2013-01-01

Urban Latino youth are exposed to high rates of violence, which increases risk for diverse forms of psychopathology. To current study aims to increase specificity in predicting responses by testing the hypothesis that youths’ reinforcement sensitivity–behavioral inhibition (BIS) and behavioral approach (BAS)–is associated with specific clinical outcomes and increases risk for the development of such problems following exposure to violence. Utilizing a short-term longitudinal design, Latino youth (N=168) provided reports of BIS/BAS and emotional/behavioral problems at Time 1, exposure to violence between Time 1 and Time 2, and clinical symptoms at Time 2. Results suggested that reinforcement sensitivity moderated the relation between violence exposure and psychopathology, such that increasing levels of BIS were associated with elevated risk for internalizing and posttraumatic stress symptoms following exposure to violence whereas BAS increased risk for externalizing problems. The importance of building on existing knowledge to understand minority youth psychopathology is discussed. PMID:22080366

Factor structure and psychometric properties of the Body Appreciation Scale among adults in Hong Kong.

PubMed

Ng, Siu-Kuen; Barron, David; Swami, Viren

2015-03-01

Previous research has suggested that the factor structure of Body Appreciation Scale (BAS), a widely-used measure of positive body image, may not be cross-culturally equivalent. Here, we used confirmatory factor analysis to evaluate the conceptual equivalence of a Chinese (Cantonese) translation of the BAS among women (n=1319) and men (n=1084) in Hong Kong. Results showed that neither the one-dimensional nor proposed two-dimensional factor structures had adequate fit. Instead, a modified two-dimensional structure, which retained 9 of the 13 BAS items in two factors, had the best fit. However, only one of these factors, reflective of General Body Appreciation, had adequate internal consistency. This factor also had good patterns of construct validity, as indicated through significant correlations with participant body mass index, self-esteem, and (among women) actual-ideal weight discrepancy. The present results suggest that there may be cultural differences in the concept and experience of body appreciation. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Brain oscillations and BIS/BAS (behavioral inhibition/activation system) effects on processing masked emotional cues. ERS/ERD and coherence measures of alpha band.

PubMed

Balconi, Michela; Mazza, Guido

2009-11-01

Alpha brain oscillation modulation was analyzed in response to masked emotional facial expressions. In addition, behavioural activation (BAS) and behavioural inhibition systems (BIS) were considered as an explicative factor to verify the effect of motivational significance on cortical activity. Nineteen subjects were submitted to an ample range of facial expressions of emotions (anger, fear, surprise, disgust, happiness, sadness, and neutral). The results demonstrated that anterior frontal sites were more active than central and posterior sites in response to facial stimuli. Moreover, right-side responses varied as a function of emotional types, with an increased right-frontal activity for negative emotions. Finally, whereas higher BIS subjects generated a more right hemisphere activation for some negative emotions (such as fear, anger, and surprise), Reward-BAS subjects were more responsive to positive emotion (happiness) within the left hemisphere. Valence and potential threatening power of facial expressions were considered to elucidate these cortical differences.

Crystallization Kinetics of Barium and Strontium Aluminosilicate Glasses of Feldspar Composition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hyatt, Mark J.; Bansal, Narottam P.

1994-01-01

Crystallization kinetics of BaO.Al2O3.2SiO2 (BAS) and SrO.Al2O3.2SiO2 (SAS) glasses in bulk and powder forms have been studied by non-isothermal differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The crystal growth activation energies were evaluated to be 473 and 451 kJ/mol for bulk samples and 560 and 534 kJ/mol for powder specimens in BAS and SAS glasses, respectively. Development of crystalline phases on thermal treatments of glasses at various temperatures has been followed by powder x-ray diffraction. Powder samples crystallized at lower temperatures than the bulk and the crystallization temperature was lower for SAS glass than BAS. Crystallization in both glasses appeared to be surface nucleated. The high temperature phase hexacelsian, MAl2Si2O8 (M = Ba or Sr), crystallized first by nucleating preferentially on the glass surface. Also, monoclinic celsian does not nucleate directly in the glass, but is formed at higher temperatures from the transformation of the metastable hexagonal phase. In SAS the transformation to monoclinic celsian occurred rapidly after 1 h at 1100 C. In contrast, in BAS this transformation is sluggish and difficult and did not go to completion even after 10 h heat treatment at 1400 C. The crystal growth morphologies in the glasses have been observed by optical microscopy. Some of the physical properties of the two glasses are also reported.

Electromembrane extraction of biogenic amines in food samples by a microfluidic-chip system followed by dabsyl derivatization prior to high performance liquid chromatography analysis.

PubMed

Zarghampour, Fereshteh; Yamini, Yadollah; Baharfar, Mahroo; Faraji, Mohammad

2018-06-29

In the present research, an on-chip electromembrane extraction coupled with high performance liquid chromatography was developed for monitoring the trace levels of biogenic amines (BAs), including histamine, tryptamine, putrescine, cadaverine and spermidine in food samples. A porous polypropylene sheet membrane impregnated with an organic solvent was placed between the two parts of the chip device to separate the channels. Two platinum electrodes were mounted at the bottom of these channels, which were connected to a power supply, providing the electrical driving force for migration of ionized analytes from the sample solution through the porous sheet membrane into the acceptor phase. BAs were extracted from 2 mL aqueous sample solutions at neutral pH into 50 μL of acidified (HCl 90 mM) acceptor solution. Supported liquid membrane including NPOE containing 10% DEHP was used to ensure efficient extraction. Low voltage of 40 V was applied over the SLMs during extraction time. The influences of fundamental parameters affecting the transport of BAs were optimized. Under the optimized conditions, the relative standard deviations based on four replicate measurements were less than 8.0% and limit of detections were in range of 3.0-8.0 μg L -1 . Finally, the method was successfully applied to determinate BAs in the food samples and satisfactory results (recovery > 95.6) were obtained. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

FRN and P300 ERP effect modulation in response to feedback sensitivity: the contribution of punishment-reward system (BIS/BAS) and behaviour identification of action.

PubMed

Balconi, Michela; Crivelli, Davide

2010-02-01

Disruption of the sense of being effective and causally determinant in performing an action was explored in the present research by inducing an erroneous external spatial feedback in response to the subject's behaviour. ERPs were recorded from fifteen subjects when they were receiving mismatching/matching feedback information on direction. In addition, subjective sensitivity to the external cues was monitored by Behavioural Inhibition System (BIS) and Behavioural Activation System (BAS) measures, as well as Behaviour Identification process was tested by Behavior Identification Form (BIF). One negative ERP deflections of higher amplitude was revealed in concomitance to false feedback, peaking at about 210ms post-stimulus, more central-posteriorly localized. We supposed that it may represent feedback-error system of which activity might be reflected in FRN, deputed to monitor the unattended feedback furnished by an external system. Moreover, a P3b effect was also observed in great measure for false spatial feedback, more posteriorly (Pz) distributed. According to the context-updating hypothesis, the P3b may reflect the revision of the mental model of the context. BIS showed to be more sensitive to both veridical and false feedback that increased FRN, whereas higher-BAS and BAS-Reward measures revealed an increased proactive attitude to external feedback (higher P3b). Finally, low-level of action representation explained FRN amplitude more than high-level one.

'Oxytocin' for the outwardly oriented: Evidence for interactive effects in placebo responding.

PubMed

Darragh, Margot; Booth, Roger J; Consedine, Nathan S

2016-04-01

In order to harness the placebo effect for clinical benefit, more research is needed to determine who might be responsive to a placebo treatment. Recently, a two-faceted Transactional Model of Placebo Responding (TMPR) was offered, which suggests different personality types might respond to different contextual cues. The current study directly tested this model by manipulating treatment descriptors to match the two purported facets of responsiveness. Physically healthy volunteers (N=77) experiencing life stress were randomised to either the: (1) wait-list control, (2) 'serotonin treatment' group; or (3) 'oxytocin treatment' group. Both treatment groups received an 'antistress' intranasal spray (placebo). The 'serotonin' and 'oxytocin' treatments were described to appeal to the two purported facets responsiveness set out in the TMPR, inward and outward orientation. The BIS/BAS scale was used as proxies for inward (BIS) and outward (BAS) orientation. It was hypothesised that high BAS types would be more responsive to the 'oxytocin' and high BIS types would be more responsive to the 'serotonin'. Findings provide partial support for hypotheses, with high but not low BAS types having a greater response to the 'oxytocin' placebo; but the pattern of responses from high BIS types were contrary to predictions. Findings indicate interactions between personality type and environmental cues may contribute to placebo responding, but more research is needed to investigate possible operationalisations of responsiveness and the contextual cues to which different types may respond. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Folic Acid and Creatine as Therapeutic Approaches to Lower Blood Arsenic: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Peters, Brandilyn A.; Hall, Megan N.; Liu, Xinhua; Parvez, Faruque; Sanchez, Tiffany R.; van Geen, Alexander; Mey, Jacob L.; Siddique, Abu B.; Shahriar, Hasan; Uddin, Mohammad Nasir; Islam, Tariqul; Balac, Olgica; Ilievski, Vesna; Factor-Litvak, Pam; Graziano, Joseph H.

2015-01-01

Background The World Health Organization estimates that > 140 million people worldwide are exposed to arsenic (As)–contaminated drinking water. As undergoes biologic methylation, which facilitates renal As elimination. In folate-deficient individuals, this process is augmented by folic acid (FA) supplementation, thereby lowering blood As (bAs). Creatinine concentrations in urine are a robust predictor of As methylation patterns. Although the reasons for this are unclear, creatine synthesis is a major consumer of methyl donors, and this synthesis is down-regulated by dietary/supplemental creatine. Objectives Our aim was to determine whether 400 or 800 μg FA and/or creatine supplementation lowers bAs in an As-exposed Bangladeshi population. Methods We conducted a clinical trial in which 622 participants were randomized to receive 400 μg FA, 800 μg FA, 3 g creatine, 3 g creatine+400 μg FA, or placebo daily. All participants received an As-removal filter on enrollment, and were followed for 24 weeks. After the 12th week, half of the two FA groups were switched to placebo to evaluate post-treatment bAs patterns. Results Linear models with repeated measures indicated that the decline in ln(bAs) from baseline in the 800-μg FA group exceeded that of the placebo group (weeks 1–12: β= –0.09, 95% CI: –0.18, –0.01; weeks 13–24: FA continued: β= –0.12, 95% CI: –0.24, –0.00; FA switched to placebo: β= –0.14, 95% CI: –0.26, –0.02). There was no rebound in bAs related to cessation of FA supplementation. Declines in bAs observed in the remaining treatment arms were not significantly different from those of the placebo group. Conclusions In this mixed folate-deficient/replete study population, 12- and 24-week treatment with 800 μg (but not 400 μg) FA lowered bAs to a greater extent than placebo; this was sustained 12 weeks after FA cessation. In future studies, we will evaluate whether FA and/or creatine altered As methylation profiles. Citation Peters BA, Hall MN, Liu X, Parvez F, Sanchez TR, van Geen A, Mey JL, Siddique AB, Shahriar H, Uddin MN, Islam T, Balac O, Ilievski V, Factor-Litvak P, Graziano JH, Gamble MV. 2015. Folic acid and creatine as therapeutic approaches to lower blood arsenic: a randomized controlled trial. Environ Health Perspect 123:1294–1301; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1409396 PMID:25978852

Enhanced fasting and post-prandial plasma bile acid responses after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery.

PubMed

Werling, Malin; Vincent, Royce P; Cross, Gemma F; Marschall, Hanns-Ulrich; Fändriks, Lars; Lönroth, Hans; Taylor, David R; Alaghband-Zadeh, Jamshid; Olbers, Torsten; Le Roux, Carel W

2013-11-01

Exogenous bile acid (BA) administration is associated with beneficial metabolic effects very similar to those seen after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. Re-routing of bile into a biliopancreatic limb with simultaneous exclusion of food occurs after RYGB, with subsequent increased fasting plasma BAs. The study assessed fasting and post-prandial plasma BA response before and 15 months after RYGB. The prospective study recruited 63 obese individuals (43 females), aged 43 (36-56) [median (IQR)] years. Blood samples were collected before and every 30 min for 120 min after a standard 400 kcal meal. Fasting and post-prandial plasma BAs, glucagons like peptide-1 (GLP-1), -tyrosine (PYY), fasting C-reactive protein (CRP), glucose and insulin were measured and homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was calculated. Following RYGB, body mass index, CRP, fasting glucose and HOMA-IR decreased; 43.7 (39.3-49.2) kg/m(2) to 29.2 (25.1-35.0) kg/m(2), 7.9 (4.1-11.9) mg/L to 0.4 (0.2-1.0) mg/L, 5.5 (5.0-6.0) mmol/L to 4.6 (4.3-4.9) mmol/L and 5.9 (3.5-9.2) to 1.7 (1.1-2.2), respectively, all P < 0.001. Fasting total BAs, GLP-1 and PYY increased after RYGB; 1.69 (0.70-2.56) µmol/L to 2.43 (1.23-3.82) µmol/L (P = 0.02), 6.8 (1.5-15.3) pmol/L to 17.1 (12.6-23.9) pmol/L (P < 0.001) and 4.0 (1.0-7.1) pmol/L to 15.2 (10.0-28.3) pmol/L (P < 0.001), respectively. The area under the curve for post-prandial total BAs, total glycine-conjugated BAs, GLP-1 and PYY were greater after RYGB; 486 (312-732) µmol/L/min versus 1012 (684-1921) µmol/L/min, 315 (221-466) µmol/L/min versus 686 (424-877) µmol/L/min, 3679 (3162-4537) pmol/L/min versus 5347 (4727-5781) pmol/L/min and 1887 (1423-2092) pmol/L/min versus 3296 (2534-3834) pmol/L/min, respectively, all P < 0.0001. Weight loss following RYGB is associated with an increase in post-prandial plasma BA response due to larger amounts of glycine-conjugated BAs. This suggests up regulation of BA production and conjugation after RYGB.

PREFACE: INERA Workshop: Transition Metal Oxide Thin Films-functional Layers in "Smart windows" and Water Splitting Devices. Parallel session of the 18th International School on Condensed Matter Physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

2014-11-01

The Special issue presents the papers for the INERA Workshop entitled "Transition Metal Oxides as Functional Layers in Smart windows and Water Splitting Devices", which was held in Varna, St. Konstantin and Elena, Bulgaria, from the 4th-6th September 2014. The Workshop is organized within the context of the INERA "Research and Innovation Capacity Strengthening of ISSP-BAS in Multifunctional Nanostructures", FP7 Project REGPOT 316309 program, European project of the Institute of Solid State Physics at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. There were 42 participants at the workshop, 16 from Sweden, Germany, Romania and Hungary, 11 invited lecturers, and 28 young participants. There were researchers present from prestigious European laboratories which are leaders in the field of transition metal oxide thin film technologies. The event contributed to training young researchers in innovative thin film technologies, as well as thin films characterization techniques. The topics of the Workshop cover the field of technology and investigation of thin oxide films as functional layers in "Smart windows" and "Water splitting" devices. The topics are related to the application of novel technologies for the preparation of transition metal oxide films and the modification of chromogenic properties towards the improvement of electrochromic and termochromic device parameters for possible industrial deployment. The Workshop addressed the following topics: Metal oxide films-functional layers in energy efficient devices; Photocatalysts and chemical sensing; Novel thin film technologies and applications; Methods of thin films characterizations; From the 37 abstracts sent, 21 manuscripts were written and later refereed. We appreciate the comments from all the referees, and we are grateful for their valuable contributions. Guest Editors: Assoc. Prof. Dr.Tatyana Ivanova Prof. DSc Kostadinka Gesheva Prof. DSc Hassan Chamatti Assoc. Prof. Dr. Georgi Popkirov Workshop Organizing Committee Prof.DSc Kostadinka Gesheva, Central Laboratory of Solar Energy and New Energy Sources, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (CL SENES-BAS) - Chairperson Assoc. Prof. Dr Anna Szekeres - Institute of Solid State Physics- BAS Assoc. Prof Dr. Tatyana Ivanova - CL SENES -BAS Assist. Prof. Radostina Kamburova - ISSP-BAS

Quantifying bile acid malabsorption helps predict response and tailor sequestrant therapy.

PubMed

Orekoya, Oluwafikunayo; McLaughlin, John; Leitao, Eugenia; Johns, Wendy; Lal, Simon; Paine, Peter

2015-06-01

Although recognised as a cause of chronic diarrhoea for over forty years, diagnostic tests and treatments for bile acid malabsorption (BAM) remain controversial. Recent National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines highlighted the lack of evidence in the field, and called for further research. This retrospective study explores the BAM subtype and severity, the use and response to bile acid sequestrants (BAS) and the prevalence of abnormal colonic histology. 264 selenium-75-labelled homocholic acid conjugated taurine (SeHCAT)-tested patient records were reviewed and the severity and subtype of BAM, presence of colonic histopathology and response to BAS were recorded. 53% of patients tested had BAM, with type-2 BAM in 45% of patients with presumed irritable bowel syndrome. Colonic histological abnormalities were similar overall between patients with (29%) or without (23%) BAM (p = 0.46) and between BAM subtypes, with no significant presence of inflammatory changes. 63% of patients with BAM had a successful BAS response which showed a trend to decreased response with reduced severity. Colestyramine was unsuccessful in 44% (38/87) and 45% of these (17/38) were related to medication intolerance, despite a positive SeHCAT. 47% (7/15) of colestyramine failures had a successful colesevelam response. No patient reported colesevelam intolerance. Quantifying severity of BAM appears to be useful in predicting BAS response. Colesevelam was better tolerated than colestyramine and showed some efficacy in colestyramine failures. Colestyramine failure should not be used to exclude BAM. Colonic histology is of no relevance. © Royal College of Physicians 2015. All rights reserved.

Interactive effects of reward sensitivity and residential fast-food restaurant exposure on fast-food consumption.

PubMed

Paquet, Catherine; Daniel, Mark; Knäuper, Bärbel; Gauvin, Lise; Kestens, Yan; Dubé, Laurette

2010-03-01

Local fast-food environments have been increasingly linked to obesity and related outcomes. Individuals who are more sensitive to reward-related cues might be more responsive to such environments. This study aimed to assess the moderating role of sensitivity to reward on the relation between residential fast-food restaurant exposure and fast-food consumption. Four hundred fifteen individuals (49.6% men; mean age: 34.7 y) were sampled from 7 Montreal census tracts stratified by socioeconomic status and French/English language. The frequency of fast-food restaurant visits in the previous week was self-reported. Sensitivity to reward was self-reported by using the Behavioral Activation System (BAS) scale. Fast-food restaurant exposure within 500 m of the participants' residence was determined by using a Geographic Information System. Main and interactive effects of the BAS and fast-food restaurant exposure on fast-food consumption were tested with logistic regression models that accounted for clustering of observations and participants' age, sex, education, and household income. Regression results showed a significant interaction between BAS and fast-food restaurant exposure (P < 0.001). Analysis of BAS tertiles indicated that the association between neighborhood fast-food restaurant exposure and consumption was positive for the highest tertile (odds ratio: 1.49; 95% CI: 1.20, 1.84; P < 0.001) but null for the intermediate (odds ratio: 1.03; 95% CI: 0.80, 1.34; P = 0.81) and lowest (odds ratio: 0.84; 95% CI: 0.51, 1.37; P = 0.49) tertiles. Reward-sensitive individuals may be more responsive to unhealthful cues in their immediate environment.

DOPA Decarboxylase Modulates Tau Toxicity.

PubMed

Kow, Rebecca L; Sikkema, Carl; Wheeler, Jeanna M; Wilkinson, Charles W; Kraemer, Brian C

2018-03-01

The microtubule-associated protein tau accumulates into toxic aggregates in multiple neurodegenerative diseases. We found previously that loss of D 2 -family dopamine receptors ameliorated tauopathy in multiple models including a Caenorhabditis elegans model of tauopathy. To better understand how loss of D 2 -family dopamine receptors can ameliorate tau toxicity, we screened a collection of C. elegans mutations in dopamine-related genes (n = 45) for changes in tau transgene-induced behavioral defects. These included many genes responsible for dopamine synthesis, metabolism, and signaling downstream of the D 2 receptors. We identified one dopamine synthesis gene, DOPA decarboxylase (DDC), as a suppressor of tau toxicity in tau transgenic worms. Loss of the C. elegans DDC gene, bas-1, ameliorated the behavioral deficits of tau transgenic worms, reduced phosphorylated and detergent-insoluble tau accumulation, and reduced tau-mediated neuron loss. Loss of function in other genes in the dopamine and serotonin synthesis pathways did not alter tau-induced toxicity; however, their function is required for the suppression of tau toxicity by bas-1. Additional loss of D 2 -family dopamine receptors did not synergize with bas-1 suppression of tauopathy phenotypes. Loss of the DDC bas-1 reduced tau-induced toxicity in a C. elegans model of tauopathy, while loss of no other dopamine or serotonin synthesis genes tested had this effect. Because loss of activity upstream of DDC could reduce suppression of tau by DDC, this suggests the possibility that loss of DDC suppresses tau via the combined accumulation of dopamine precursor levodopa and serotonin precursor 5-hydroxytryptophan. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Multispectral analysis of biological agents to implement a quick tool for stand-off biological detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carestia, M.; Pizzoferrato, R.; Lungaroni, M.; Gabriele, J.; Ludovici, G. M.; Cenciarelli, O.; Gelfusa, M.; Murari, A.; Malizia, A.; Gaudio, P.

2015-10-01

With the aim of identifying an approach to exploit the differences in the fluorescence signatures of biological agents BAs, we have investigated the response of some BAs simulants to a set of different excitation wavelengths in the UV spectral range (i.e. 266, 273, 280, 300, 340, 355 nm). Our preliminary results on bacterial spores and vegetative forms, dispersed in water, showed that the differences in the fluorescence spectra can be enhanced, and more easily revealed, by using different excitation wavelengths. Specifically, the photo luminescence (PL) spectra coming from different species of Bacillus, in the form of spores (used as simulants of Bacillus anthracis), show significant differences under excitation at all the wavelengths, with slightly larger differences at 300, 340, 355 nm. On the other hand, the vegetative forms of two Bacillus species, did not show any appreciable difference, i.e. the PL spectra are virtually identical, for the excitation wavelengths of 266, 273, 280 nm. Conversely, small yet appreciable difference appear at 300, 340, 355 nm. Finally, large difference appear between the spore and the vegetative form of each species at all the wavelengths, with slightly larger variations at 300, 340, 355 nm. Together, these preliminary results support the hypothesis that a multi-wavelength approach could be used to improve the sensitivity and specificity of UV-LIF based BAs detection systems. The second step of this work concerns the application of a Support Vector Regression (SVR) method, as evaluated in our previous work to define a methodology for the setup of a multispectral database for the stand-off detection of BAs.

Hal Is a Bacillus anthracis Heme Acquisition Protein

PubMed Central

Balderas, Miriam A.; Nobles, Christopher L.; Honsa, Erin S.; Alicki, Embriette R.

2012-01-01

The metal iron is a limiting nutrient for bacteria during infection. Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax and a potential weapon of bioterrorism, grows rapidly in mammalian hosts, which suggests that it efficiently attains iron during infection. Recent studies have uncovered both heme (isd) and siderophore-mediated (asb) iron transport pathways in this pathogen. Whereas deletion of the asb genes results in reduced virulence, the loss of three surface components from isd had no effect, thereby leaving open the question of what additional factors in B. anthracis are responsible for iron uptake from the most abundant iron source for mammals, heme. Here, we describe the first functional characterization of bas0520, a gene recently implicated in anthrax disease progression. bas0520 encodes a single near-iron transporter (NEAT) domain and several leucine-rich repeats. The NEAT domain binds heme, despite lacking a stabilizing tyrosine common to the NEAT superfamily of hemoproteins. The NEAT domain also binds hemoglobin and can acquire heme from hemoglobin in solution. Finally, deletion of bas0520 resulted in bacilli unable to grow efficiently on heme or hemoglobin as an iron source and yielded the most significant phenotype relative to that for other putative heme uptake systems, a result that suggests that this protein plays a prominent role in the replication of B. anthracis in hematogenous environments. Thus, we have assigned the name of Hal (heme-acquisition leucine-rich repeat protein) to BAS0520. These studies advance our understanding of heme acquisition by this dangerous pathogen and justify efforts to determine the mechanistic function of this novel protein for vaccine or inhibitor development. PMID:22865843

Ultra-fast fluence optimization for beam angle selection algorithms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bangert, M.; Ziegenhein, P.; Oelfke, U.

2014-03-01

Beam angle selection (BAS) including fluence optimization (FO) is among the most extensive computational tasks in radiotherapy. Precomputed dose influence data (DID) of all considered beam orientations (up to 100 GB for complex cases) has to be handled in the main memory and repeated FOs are required for different beam ensembles. In this paper, the authors describe concepts accelerating FO for BAS algorithms using off-the-shelf multiprocessor workstations. The FO runtime is not dominated by the arithmetic load of the CPUs but by the transportation of DID from the RAM to the CPUs. On multiprocessor workstations, however, the speed of data transportation from the main memory to the CPUs is non-uniform across the RAM; every CPU has a dedicated memory location (node) with minimum access time. We apply a thread node binding strategy to ensure that CPUs only access DID from their preferred node. Ideal load balancing for arbitrary beam ensembles is guaranteed by distributing the DID of every candidate beam equally to all nodes. Furthermore we use a custom sorting scheme of the DID to minimize the overall data transportation. The framework is implemented on an AMD Opteron workstation. One FO iteration comprising dose, objective function, and gradient calculation takes between 0.010 s (9 beams, skull, 0.23 GB DID) and 0.070 s (9 beams, abdomen, 1.50 GB DID). Our overall FO time is < 1 s for small cases, larger cases take ~ 4 s. BAS runs including FOs for 1000 different beam ensembles take ~ 15-70 min, depending on the treatment site. This enables an efficient clinical evaluation of different BAS algorithms.

Relevant Spatial Scales of Chemical Variation in Aplysina aerophoba

PubMed Central

Sacristan-Soriano, Oriol; Banaigs, Bernard; Becerro, Mikel A.

2011-01-01

Understanding the scale at which natural products vary the most is critical because it sheds light on the type of factors that regulate their production. The sponge Aplysina aerophoba is a common Mediterranean sponge inhabiting shallow waters in the Mediterranean and its area of influence in Atlantic Ocean. This species contains large concentrations of brominated alkaloids (BAs) that play a number of ecological roles in nature. Our research investigates the ecological variation in BAs of A. aerophoba from a scale of hundred of meters to thousand kilometers. We used a nested design to sample sponges from two geographically distinct regions (Canary Islands and Mediterranean, over 2500 km), with two zones within each region (less than 50 km), two locations within each zone (less than 5 km), and two sites within each location (less than 500 m). We used high-performance liquid chromatography to quantify multiple BAs and a spectrophotometer to quantify chlorophyll a (Chl a). Our results show a striking degree of variation in both natural products and Chl a content. Significant variation in Chl a content occurred at the largest and smallest geographic scales. The variation patterns of BAs also occurred at the largest and smallest scales, but varied depending on which BA was analyzed. Concentrations of Chl a and isofistularin-3 were negatively correlated, suggesting that symbionts may impact the concentration of some of these compounds. Our results underline the complex control of the production of secondary metabolites, with factors acting at both small and large geographic scales affecting the production of multiple secondary metabolites. PMID:22363236

Effects of Mind-Body Training on Personality and Behavioral Activation and Inhibition System According to BDNF Val66Met Polymorphism.

PubMed

Jung, Ye-Ha; Lee, Ul Soon; Jang, Joon Hwan; Kang, Do-Hyung

2016-05-01

It has been known that mind-body training (MBT) can affect personality and behavior system as well as emotional well-being, but different effects of MBT on them has not been reported according to BDNF genetic polymorphism. Healthy subjects consisted of 64 subjects and the MBT group who practiced meditation regularly consisted of 72 practitioners. Participants completed neuroticism-extraversion-openness (NEO) Five-Factor Inventory and Behavioral Activation System/Behavioral Inhibition System (BAS/BIS) scales. All subjects were genotyped for the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism. In the same genotypes of the BDNF Val/Val+Val/Met group, MBT group showed the increased Extraversion (p=0.033) and the increased Openness to Experience (p=0.004) compared to the control group. Also, in the same Met/Met carriers, MBT group exhibited the increase of Extraversion (p=0.008), the reduction of Neuroticism (p=0.002), and the increase of Openness to Experience (p=0.008) compared to the control group. In the same genotypes of the BDNF Val/Val+Val/Met group, MBT group showed the decreased BAS-Reward Responsiveness (p=0.016) and the decrease of BIS (p=0.004) compared to the control group. In the BDNF Met/Met group, MBT group increased BAS-Fun Seeking (p=0.045) and decreased BIS (p=0.013) compared to the control group. MBT would differently contribute to NEO personality and BAS/BIS according to BDNF genetic polymorphism, compensating for different vulnerable traits based on each genotype.

Influence of Vegetations' Metabolites on the Composition and Functioning of Soil Microbial Complex

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biryukov, Mikhail

2013-04-01

Microbiota is one of the major factors of soils fertility. It transforms organic substances in soil and, therefore, serves as the main component in the cycles of carbon and nitrogen. Microbial communities (MC) are characterized as highly diverse and extremely complex structures. This allows them to adapt to any affection and provide all the necessary biospheric functions. Hence, the study of their functional diversity and adaptivity of microbiota provides the key to the understanding of the ecosystems' functioning and their adaptivity to the human impact. The formation of MC at the initial stage is regulated by the fluxes of substrates and biologically active substances (BAS), which vary greatly in soils under different vegetations. These fluxes are presented by: low molecular weights organic substances (LMWOS), which can be directly included in metabolism of microbes; polymers, that can be decomposed to LMWOS by exoenzymes; and more complex compounds, having different "drug effects" (e.g. different types of phenolic acids) and regulating growth and enzymatic properties of microbiota. Therefore, the main hypothesis of the research was formulated as follows: penetration of different types of substrates and BAS into soil leads to the emergence of MC varying in enzymatic properties and structure. As a soil matrix we used the soil from the untreated variant of the lysimeter model experiment taking place in the faculty of Soil Science of the MSU for over the last 40 years. It was sieved with a 2mm sieves, humidified and incubated at 25C during one week. Subsequently, the samples were air-dried with occasional stirring for one more week. Thereafter, aliquots of the prepared soil were taken for the different experimental variants. The samples were rewetted with solutions of various substrates (glucose, cellulose, starch, etc.) and thoroughly mixed. The control variant was established with addition of deionised water. The samples were incubated at the 25C. During the incubation the rate of mineralisation of organic substances was assessed with CO2 measurements. In 5, 10 and 21 days of incubation the enzymatic properties of the formed MC were studied by the hydrolysis of fluorogenic substrates. The influence of BAS on enzymatic properties of MC were researched by addition of different concentrations of phenolic acids (e.g. salicylic, vanillic, benzoic, etc.) to the samples from various substrates treatments. The acute toxicity of BAS was studied with bacterial luminescent test. After the last measurement, the isolations of microorganisms on elective nutrient medias were made. The dominant microorganisms were collected to the library for further identification and physiological tests. MeOH-chloroform extraction of phospholipids were performed with the remaining samples. Finally, they were stored for subsequent FAME identifications. The obtained data prove that penetration of various substrates into the soil determines the formation of MC different in structure and properties. It was found, that EC50 of the most studied phenolic acids are similar to naturally occurring concentrations. This means that they can be the real drivers of forming endemical MC under various vegetations along with the plant-specific fluxes of nutrients.

New constraints on the geochronology and Sm-Nd isotopic characteristics of Bas-Drâa mafic dykes, Anti-Atlas of Morocco

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

El Bahat, Abdelhakim; Ikenne, Moha; Cousens, Brian; Söderlund, Ulf; Ernst, Richard; Klausen, Martin B.; Youbi, Nasrrddine

2017-03-01

The Precambrian inliers of the Anti-Atlas belt across the southern part of Morocco contain numerous mafic dyke and sill swarms, which are thought to represent the erosional remnants of Proterozoic Large Igneous Provinces (LIPs). As part of an extended research campaign to date and characterize these LIPs, two amphiboles from one dyke within the Bas-Drâa inlier (western Anti-Atlas) yielded consistent 40Ar-39Ar ages of 611 Ma ± 1.3; i.e., evidence of magmatic activity during the Ediacaran (635-542 Ma). Furthermore, Nd isotope ratios and model ages identifies four groups of dykes within the Bas-Drâa inlier, all of which were derived from a previously enriched mantle reservoir with very low 143Nd/144Nd ratios (0.51065-0.51170) and corresponding εNd(t) values (-16.44 to -2.45). Such low Nd-ratios arguably reflect either a contribution of crustal components, such as the Paleoproterozoïc schisto-granitic basement, or metasomatic modification of the sub-continental lithospheric mantle.

Biogenic amines as freshness index of meat wrapped in a new active packaging system formulated with essential oils of Rosmarinus officinalis.

PubMed

Sirocchi, Veronica; Caprioli, Giovanni; Cecchini, Cinzia; Coman, Maria Magdalena; Cresci, Alberto; Maggi, Filippo; Papa, Fabrizio; Ricciutelli, Massimo; Vittori, Sauro; Sagratini, Gianni

2013-12-01

Biogenic amines (BAs) are considered as an important indicator of freshness and quality of food. In this work, a new active packaging (AP) system for meat that, incorporating essential oil of Rosmarinus officinalis at 4% (w/w), inhibits the increase of BAs and the bacteria involved into their production was developed. BAs were analyzed by a SPE-HPLC-DAD method during the storage time of meat (0-7 d, 4 °C). Results showed that, in each monitored day, Biogenic Amine Index (BAI) expressed in mg kg(-1) is lower in meat wrapped in AP with respect to that packed in polycoupled packaging (PP) (from 19% to 62%). A strong correlation was found between the inhibition of increase of putrescine, cadaverine, histamine and their bacteria producers such as Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas spp. and Brocothrix thermospacta. By exploiting antimicrobial and antioxidant action of essential oil of R. officinalis, the new APs contribute to increase the shelf life of fresh meat and to preserve its important nutrients.

Entrapped Single Tungstate Site in Zeolite for Cooperative Catalysis of Olefin Metathesis with Brønsted Acid Site

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

Zhao, Pu; Ye, Lin; Sun, Zhenyu

Industrial olefin metathesis catalysts generally suffer from low reaction rates and require harsh reaction conditions for moderate activities. This is due to their inability to prevent metathesis active sites (MAS) from aggregation and their intrinsic poor adsorption and activation of olefin molecules. Here, isolated tungstate species as single molecular MAS is immobilized inside zeolite pores by Bronsted acid sites (BAS) on the inner surface. It is demonstrated for the first time that unoccupied BAS in atomic proximity to MAS enhance olefin adsorption and greatly facilitate the formation of metallocycle intermediates in a stereospecific manner. Thus, effective cooperative catalysis takes placemore » over the BAS-MAS pair. In consequence, for the cross-metathesis of ethene and trans-2-butene to propene, under the same mild reaction conditions, the propene production rate over WOx/USY is ca. 7,300 times that over the industrial WO3/SiO2 based catalyst. A propene yield up to 79% (80% selectivity) without observable deactivation was obtained over WOx/USY for a wide range of reaction conditions.« less

Electroacoustic analysis, design, and implementation of a small balanced armature speaker.

PubMed

Bai, Mingsian R; You, Bo-Cheng; Lo, Yi-Yang

2014-11-01

This paper presents a new design and implementation of a balanced armature speaker (BAS), which is composed of permanent magnetic circuits, a moving armature, and a coil. The armature rocks about a pivot with the coil at one end and the permanent magnet on another. A magnetic circuit analysis is conducted for the designed BAS to formulate the force factor, which is required for modeling the coupling between the electrical and mechanical systems. In addition, an electromechanoacoustical analogous circuit is established for the BAS, which bears the same structure as the moving coil loudspeaker, except that the force factor is different. A hybrid model, which combines the lumped parameter model in the electrical and acoustical domains with a finite element model in the mechanical domain, is developed to model the high-frequency response because of the high-order modes of the membrane, the drive rod, and the armature. The electroacoustic analysis is experimentally verified. The results indicate that the sound pressure response that is simulated using the hybrid model is in superior agreement with the measured response to that simulated using the lumped parameter model.

Electronic structure of boron based single and multi-layer two dimensional materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyazato, Itsuki; Takahashi, Keisuke

2017-09-01

Two dimensional nanosheets based on boron and Group VA elements are designed and characterized using first principles calculations. B-N, B-P, B-As, B-Sb, and B-Bi are found to possess honeycomb structures where formation energies indicate exothermic reactions. Contrary to B-N, the cases of B-P, B-As, B-Sb, and B-Bi nanosheets are calculated to possess narrow band gaps. In addition, calculations reveal that the electronegativity difference between B and Group VA elements in the designed materials is a good indicator to predict the charge transfer and band gap of the two dimensional materials. Hydrogen adsorption over defect-free B-Sb and B-Bi results in exothermic reactions, while defect-free B-N, B-P, and B-As result in endothermic reactions. The layerability of the designed two dimensional materials is also investigated where the electronic structure of two-layered two dimensional materials is strongly coupled with how the two dimensional materials are layered. Thus, one can consider that the properties of two dimensional materials can be controlled by the composition of two dimensional materials and the structure of layers.

Colin D. Elliott (1937-2016).

PubMed

Willis, John O; Dumont, Ron

2017-01-01

This article memorializes Colin D. Elliott (1937-2016). For 7 years, in his work as a school psychologist, Elliott studied the ability profiles of children with learning disabilities and the measurement of children's developmental stages. Subsequently, he trained school psychologists for over 20 years at the University of Manchester. In 1983, he made a major, enduring contribution to the field of psychometric assessment in both his home country and the wider field with the publication of the innovative British Ability Scales (BAS). An American version, the Differential Ability Scales (DAS), followed in 1990, and both versions of the test have been widely used and revised several times (BAS 2, BAS 3, and DAS-II). Many of his innovations in those tests have been adopted in other instruments. His other research and many publications focused on individual differences in children's temperament and personality and specific learning difficulties. Elliott moved to the United States in 1992 and was adjunct professor at the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education at the University of California, Santa Barbara. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Factor structure and psychometric properties of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 in university students in Hong Kong.

PubMed

Swami, Viren; Ng, Siu-Kuen

2015-09-01

Previous studies have suggested that there may not be cross-cultural equivalence in the factor structure of body appreciation. Here, we examine the conceptual equivalence of a Chinese (Cantonese) translation of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2; Tylka & Wood-Barcalow, 2015b), a newly-developed measure of body appreciation. Participants were 457 women and 417 men from a university in Hong Kong. The results of exploratory factor analyses showed that, like its English version, the Chinese BAS-2 had a one-dimensional structure. Body appreciation scores had good internal consistency and were also significantly associated with respondent body mass index, self-esteem, life satisfaction, and (in women) actual-ideal weight discrepancy. Men had significantly higher scores than women, while comparisons with data from Tylka and Wood-Barcalow (2015b) suggest that cross-cultural differences are small-to-moderate at best. The present findings suggest that the BAS-2 may prove to be a useful tool for the assessment of body appreciation across cultures. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

40 CFR 1065.341 - CVS, PFD, and batch sampler verification (propane check).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... may use the HC contamination procedure in § 1065.520(f) to verify HC contamination. Otherwise, zero... range that can measure the C3H8 concentration expected for the CVS and C3H8 flow rates. (2) Zero the HC analyzer using zero air introduced at the analyzer port. (3) Span the HC analyzer using C3H8 span gas...

40 CFR 1065.341 - CVS and batch sampler verification (propane check).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... may use the HC contamination procedure in § 1065.520(g) to verify HC contamination. Otherwise, zero... range that can measure the C3H8 concentration expected for the CVS and C3H8 flow rates. (2) Zero the HC analyzer using zero air introduced at the analyzer port. (3) Span the HC analyzer using C3H8 span gas...

40 CFR 1065.341 - CVS and batch sampler verification (propane check).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... may use the HC contamination procedure in § 1065.520(g) to verify HC contamination. Otherwise, zero... range that can measure the C3H8 concentration expected for the CVS and C3H8 flow rates. (2) Zero the HC analyzer using zero air introduced at the analyzer port. (3) Span the HC analyzer using C3H8 span gas...

Quality changes of fresh filled pasta during storage: influence of modified atmosphere packaging on microbial growth and sensory properties.

PubMed

Sanguinetti, A M; Del Caro, A; Mangia, N P; Secchi, N; Catzeddu, P; Piga, A

2011-02-01

This study evaluated the shelf life of fresh pasta filled with cheese subjected to modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) or air packaging (AP). After a pasteurization treatment, fresh pasta was packaged under a 50/50 N(2)/CO(2) ratio or in air (air batch). Changes in microbial growth, in-package gas composition, chemical-physical parameters and sensory attributes were monitored for 42 days at 4 (°)C. The pasteurization treatment resulted in suitable microbiological reduction. MAP allowed a mold-free shelf life of the fresh filled pasta of 42 days, whereas air-packaged samples got spoilt between 7 and 14 days. The hurdle approach used (MAP and low storage temperature) prevented the growth of pathogens and alterative microorganisms. MAP samples maintained a high microbiological standard throughout the storage period. The panel judged MAP fresh pasta above the acceptability threshold throughout the shelf life.

Mise en oeuvre d'un amplificateur paramétrique d'impulsions à dérive en fréquence (OPCPA)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hugonnot, E.; Villate, D.; Salin, F.; Freysz, E.

2004-11-01

L'amplification paramétrique d'impulsions à dérive de fréquence (OPCPA) est une méthode originale permettant un transfert d'énergie d'une onde pompe de forte énergie à spectre étroit vers une onde signal de faible énergie à spectre large. Un amplificateur basé sur un cristal non linéaire de BBO a été réalisé et a permis d'amplifier à l'aide d'un laser de pompe Nd :Yag à 532 nm des impulsions femtosecondes à 800 nm issues d'un oscillateur Ti :Sa et étirées à 200 ps. Les premiers résultats de l'application de l'OPCPA à la mise en forme spectrale d'impulsions sont montrés.

Mechanisms of inert gas narcosis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1973-01-01

Experiments describing the mechanism of inert gas narcosis are reported. A strain of mice, genetically altered to increase susceptibility to botulin poisoning (synaptic response) appears to increase metabolic rates while breathing argon; this infers a genetically altered synaptic response to both botulin toxin and narcotic gases. Studies of metabolic depression in human subjects breathing either air or a 30% mixture of nitrous oxide indicate that nitrous oxide narcosis does not produce pronounced metabolic depression. Tests on mice for relative susceptibilities to narcosis and oxygen poisoning as a function of fatty membrane composition show that alteration of the fatty acid composition of phospholipids increases resistance to metabolically depressant effects of argon but bas no effect on nitrous oxide narcosis. Another study suggests that acclimatization to low tension prior to high pressure oxygen treatment enhances susceptibility of mice to convulsions and death; developing biochemical lesions cause CNS metabolite reductions and pulmonary damage.

Numerical model of spray combustion in a single cylinder diesel engine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Acampora, Luigi; Sequino, Luigi; Nigro, Giancarlo; Continillo, Gaetano; Vaglieco, Bianca Maria

2017-11-01

A numerical model is developed for predicting the pressure cycle from Intake Valve Closing (IVC) to the Exhaust Valve Opening (EVO) events. The model is based on a modified one-dimensional (1D) Musculus and Kattke spray model, coupled with a zero-dimensional (0D) non-adiabatic transient Fed-Batch reactor model. The 1D spray model provides an estimate of the fuel evaporation rate during the injection phenomenon, as a function of time. The 0D Fed-Batch reactor model describes combustion. The main goal of adopting a 0D (perfectly stirred) model is to use highly detailed reaction mechanisms for Diesel fuel combustion in air, while keeping the computational cost as low as possible. The proposed model is validated by comparing its predictions with experimental data of pressure obtained from an optical single cylinder Diesel engine.

[Evaluation of occupational exposure to cadmium based on analysis of air in the work area. II. Cadmium oxide levels in the air of work areas during cadmium production in a non-ferrous metal foundry].

PubMed

Rogaczewska, T; Matczak, W

1985-01-01

By stationary measurements the levels of cadmium oxide aerosols concentrations in air at particular workplaces related to cadmium production at non-ferrous metals mill have been determined. High concentrations of that compound have been found at such technological operations as unloading of cadmium-bearing raw materials, batching of cadmium sponge in the induction furnace and casting of fused cadmium into moulds. With the personal dosimetry technique, concentrations of that compound in the workers' breathing zone have been determined. Those were within 0.16-1.84 mg/m3, so--above the TLV values. However, those concentrations do not necessarily reflect the occupational exposure magnitude, as the workers had respirators.

Effect of moisture content on fed batch composting reactor of vegetable and fruit wastes.

PubMed

Jolanun, B; Tripetchkul, S; Chiemchaisri, C; Chaiprasert, P; Towprayoon, S

2005-03-01

Vegetable and fruit wastes mixed with sawdust were composted in a laboratory scale reactor by controlling the waste feeding rate at 21 kg m(-3) day(-1) and aeration rate at 10.6 l m(-3) min(-1). The effects of initial moisture content on organic matter degradation and process performance of fed batch composting were investigated. The absolute amount of removal, removal percentage, and removal rate of dry mass obtained were substantially different among the initial moisture contents. The rapid rise of moisture content and the lowest absolute amount of removal observed were achieved in the 50% condition. The initial moisture content yielding the largest absolute amount of removal in both feeding and curing stage was 30% whereas the removal percentage and rate constant of waste decomposition were highest in the 50% condition. Examined by traditional soil physics method, the moisture content at 50-55% was suitable for satisfying the degree of free air space (65-70%) of compost during the fed batch composting. Most degradable organic matter was mainly consumed in the feeding stage as indicated by a higher removal rate of dry mass in all cases. It is recommended that the initial moisture content of 30% and mode of aeration and agitation should be adopted for achieving practical fed batch composting of vegetable and fruit wastes. The study also demonstrated that the composting kinetics of vegetable and fruit wastes mixed with sawdust can be described by a first order model.

Expression of a mutated SPT15 gene in Saccharomyces cerevisiae enhances both cell growth and ethanol production in microaerobic batch, fed-batch, and simultaneous saccharification and fermentations.

PubMed

Seong, Yeong-Je; Park, Haeseong; Yang, Jungwoo; Kim, Soo-Jung; Choi, Wonja; Kim, Kyoung Heon; Park, Yong-Cheol

2017-05-01

The SPT15 gene encodes a Saccharomyces cerevisiae TATA-binding protein, which is able to globally control the transcription levels of various metabolic and regulatory genes. In this study, a SPT15 gene mutant (S42N, S78R, S163P, and I212N) was expressed in S. cerevisiae BY4741 (BSPT15-M3), of which effects on fermentative yeast properties were evaluated in a series of culture types. By applying different nitrogen sources and air supply conditions in batch culture, organic nitrogen sources and microaerobic condition were decided to be more favorable for both cell growth and ethanol production of the BSPT15-M3 strain than the control S. cerevisiae BY4741 strain expressing the SPT15 gene (BSPT15wt). Microaerobic fed-batch cultures of BSPT15-M3 with glucose shock in the presence of high ethanol content resulted in a 9.5-13.4% higher glucose consumption rate and ethanol productivity than those for the BSPT15wt strain. In addition, BSPT15-M3 showed 4.5 and 3.9% increases in ethanol productivity from cassava hydrolysates and corn starch in simultaneous saccharification and fermentation processes, respectively. It was concluded that overexpression of the mutated SPT15 gene would be a potent strategy to develop robust S. cerevisiae strains with enhanced cell growth and ethanol production abilities.

Ursodeoxycholic Acid but Not Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid Inhibits Proliferation and Differentiation of Human Subcutaneous Adipocytes

PubMed Central

Mališová, Lucia; Kováčová, Zuzana; Koc, Michal; Kračmerová, Jana; Štich, Vladimír; Rossmeislová, Lenka

2013-01-01

Stress of endoplasmic reticulum (ERS) is one of the molecular triggers of adipocyte dysfunction and chronic low inflammation accompanying obesity. ERS can be alleviated by chemical chaperones from the family of bile acids (BAs). Thus, two BAs currently used to treat cholestasis, ursodeoxycholic and tauroursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA and TUDCA), could potentially lessen adverse metabolic effects of obesity. Nevertheless, BAs effects on human adipose cells are mostly unknown. They could regulate gene expression through pathways different from their chaperone function, namely through activation of farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and TGR5, G-coupled receptor. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze effects of UDCA and TUDCA on human preadipocytes and differentiated adipocytes derived from paired samples of two distinct subcutaneous adipose tissue depots, abdominal and gluteal. While TUDCA did not alter proliferation of cells from either depot, UDCA exerted strong anti-proliferative effect. In differentiated adipocytes, acute exposition to neither TUDCA nor UDCA was able to reduce effect of ERS stressor tunicamycin. However, exposure of cells to UDCA during whole differentiation process decreased expression of ERS markers. At the same time however, UDCA profoundly inhibited adipogenic conversion of cells. UDCA abolished expression of PPARγ and lipogenic enzymes already in the early phases of adipogenesis. This anti-adipogenic effect of UDCA was not dependent on FXR or TGR5 activation, but could be related to ability of UDCA to sustain the activation of ERK1/2 previously linked with PPARγ inactivation. Finally, neither BAs did lower expression of chemokines inducible by TLR4 pathway, when UDCA enhanced their expression in gluteal adipocytes. Therefore while TUDCA has neutral effect on human preadipocytes and adipocytes, the therapeutic use of UDCA different from treating cholestatic diseases should be considered with caution because UDCA alters functions of human adipose cells. PMID:24312631

The Effectiveness of a Wireless Modular Bed Absence Sensor Device for Fall Prevention among Older Inpatients.

PubMed

Subermaniam, Kogilavani; Welfred, Ridgwan; Subramanian, Pathmawathi; Chinna, Karuthan; Ibrahim, Fatimah; Mohktar, Mas S; Tan, Maw Pin

2016-01-01

Falls and fall-related injuries are increasingly serious issues among elderly inpatients due to population aging. The bed-exit alarm has only previously been evaluated in a handful of studies with mixed results. Therefore, we evaluated the effectiveness of a modular bed absence sensor device (M-BAS) in detecting bed exits among older inpatients in a middle income nation in East Asia. Patients aged ≥65 years on an acute geriatric ward who were able to mobilize with or without walking aids and physical assistance were recruited to the study. The total number of alarms and the numbers of true and false alarms were recorded by ward nurses. The M-BAS device is placed across the mattress of all consenting participants. Nurses' workload was assessed using the National Aeronautics and Space Administration-Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) score, while nurses' perceptions were surveyed. The sensitivity of the M-BAS was 100% with a positive predictive value of 68% and a nuisance alarm rate of 31%. There was a significant reduction in total NASA-TLX workload score (mean difference = 14.34 ± 13.96 SD, p  < 0.001) at the end of the intervention period. 83% of the nurses found the device useful for falls prevention, 97% found it user friendly, and 87% would use it in future. The M-BAS was able to accurately detect bed absence episodes among geriatric inpatients and alert nurses accordingly. The use of the device significantly reduced the total workload score, while the acceptability of the device was high among our nurses. A larger, cluster randomized study to measure actual falls outcome associated with the use of the device is now indicated.

Probiotics and Probiotic Metabolic Product Improved Intestinal Function and Ameliorated LPS-Induced Injury in Rats.

PubMed

Deng, Bo; Wu, Jie; Li, Xiaohui; Men, Xiaoming; Xu, Ziwei

2017-11-01

In the present study, we sought to determine the effects of Bacillus subtilis (BAS) and Bacillus licheniformis (BAL) in rats after lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute intestinal inflammation. We also determined whether the B. subtilis metabolic product (BASM) is as effective as the live-cell probiotic. 60 male SD rats were randomly assigned to five groups and administered a diet containing 0.05% B. licheniformis (BAL group), 0.05% B. subtilis (BAS group), 0.5% B. subtilis metabolic product (BASM group), or a basic diet (PC group and NC group) for 40 days. On day 40, BAL, BAS, BASM, and NC groups were injected with 4 mg/kg body weight LPS. 4 h later, all rats were anesthetized and sacrificed. The results showed that the administration of B. licheniformis and B. subtilis improved intestinal function as evidenced by histology, increased enzyme activity, and mucosal thickness. They also increased the number of intraepithelial lymphocytes and decreased mucosal myeloperoxidase activity and plasma TNF-α. In addition, the cecal content of B. subtilis-treated rats had significantly increased microbial diversity, decreased numbers of Firmicutes, and increased numbers of Bacteroidetes as compared to rats fed basic diets. Similar to BAS group, the cecal content of B. licheniformis-treated rats decreased the number of Firmicutes. Administration of B. subtilis metabolic product had similar effects on intestinal function, inflammation response, and microbial diversity as B. subtilis but these effects were attenuated. In conclusion, administration of probiotic strains B. licheniformis or B. subtilis improved intestinal function, ameliorated the inflammation response, and modulated microflora after LPS-induced acute inflammation in rats. Non-living cells also exerted probiotic properties but live cells tended to function better.

Molecular tracing of classical swine fever viruses isolated from wild boars and pigs in France from 2002 to 2011.

PubMed

Simon, Gaëlle; Le Dimna, Mireille; Le Potier, Marie-Frédérique; Pol, Françoise

2013-10-25

There were three outbreaks of classical swine fever (CSF) in north-eastern France between 2002 and 2011. The first two occurred in April 2002 in the Moselle department, in a wild boar and pig herd, respectively, while the third occurred in April 2003, in the Bas-Rhin department, in a wild boar. A survey was subsequently implemented in wild boar and domestic pig populations, during which 43 CSF viruses (CSFVs) were genetically characterized to provide information on virus sources, trace virus evolution and help in the monitoring of effective control measures. Phylogenetic analyses, based on fragments of the 5'NTR, E2 and NS5B genes, showed that all French CSFVs could be assigned to genotype 2, subgenotype 2.3. CSFVs isolated in Moselle were classified in the "Rostock" lineage, a strain first described in 2001 in wild boar populations in the Eifel region of north-western Rhineland-Palatinate in Germany, and in Luxemburg. In contrast, the CSFVs isolated in Bas-Rhin were homologous to strains from the "Uelzen" lineage, a strain previously isolated from wild boars in south-eastern Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, as well as in Vosges du Nord, France, during a previous outbreak that had occurred in wild boars between 1992 and 2001. The outbreak in Moselle domestic pigs was quickly resolved as it concerned only one herd. The infection in wild boars from Moselle was extinguished after a few months whereas wild boars from Bas-Rhin remained infected until 2007. Molecular tracing showed that the Bas-Rhin index virus strain evolved slightly during the period but that no strain from a novel lineage was introduced until this outbreak ended after application of a vaccination scheme for six years. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Activation of PPARα decreases bile acids in livers of female mice while maintaining bile flow and biliary bile acid excretion.

PubMed

Zhang, Youcai; Lickteig, Andrew J; Csanaky, Iván L; Klaassen, Curtis D

2018-01-01

Fibrates are hypolipidemic drugs that act as activators of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα). In both humans and rodents, females were reported to be less responsive to fibrates than males. Previous studies on fibrates and PPARα usually involved male mice, but little has been done in females. The present study aimed to provide the first comprehensive analysis of the effects of clofibrate (CLOF) and PPARα on bile acid (BA) homeostasis in female mice. Study in WT male mice showed that a 4-day CLOF treatment increased liver weight, bile flow, and biliary BA excretion, but decreased total BAs in both serum and liver. In contrast, WT female mice were less susceptible to these CLOF-mediated responses observed in males. In WT female mice, CLOF decreased total BAs in the liver, but had little effect on the mRNAs of hepatic BA-related genes. Next, a comparative analysis between WT and PPARα-null female mice showed that lack of PPARα in female mice decreased total BAs in serum, but had little effect on total BAs in liver or bile. However, lack of PPARα in female mice increased mRNAs of BA synthetic enzymes (Cyp7a1, Cyp8b1, Cyp27a1, and Cyp7b1) and transporters (Ntcp, Oatp1a1, Oatp1b2, and Mrp3). Furthermore, the increase of Cyp7a1 in PPARα-null female mice was associated with an increase in liver Fxr-Shp-Lrh-1 signaling. In conclusion, female mice are resistant to CLOF-mediated effects on BA metabolism observed in males, which could be attributed to PPARα-mediated suppression in females on genes involved in BA synthesis and transport. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Chronic occupational exposure to arsenic induces carcinogenic gene signaling networks and neoplastic transformation in human lung epithelial cells

PubMed Central

Stueckle, Todd A.; Lu, Yongju; Davis, Mary E.; Wang, Liying; Jiang, Bing-Hua; Holaskova, Ida; Schafer, Rosana; Barnett, John B.; Rojanasakul, Yon

2012-01-01

Chronic arsenic exposure remains a human health risk; however a clear mode of action to understand gene signaling-driven arsenic carcinogenesis is currently lacking. This study chronically exposed human lung epithelial BEAS-2B cells to low-dose arsenic trioxide to elucidate cancer promoting gene signaling networks associated with arsenic-transformed (B-As) cells. Following a six month exposure, exposed cells were assessed for enhanced cell proliferation, colony formation, invasion ability and in vivo tumor formation compared to control cell lines. Collected mRNA was subjected to whole genome expression microarray profiling followed by in silico Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) to identify lung carcinogenesis modes of action. B-As cells displayed significant increases in proliferation, colony formation and invasion ability compared to BEAS-2B cells. B-As injections into nude mice resulted in development of primary and secondary metastatic tumors. Arsenic exposure resulted in widespread up-regulation of genes associated with mitochondrial metabolism and increased reactive oxygen species protection suggesting mitochondrial dysfunction. Carcinogenic initiation via reactive oxygen species and epigenetic mechanisms was further supported by altered DNA repair, histone, and ROS-sensitive signaling. NF-κB, MAPK and NCOR1 signaling disrupted PPARα/δ-mediated lipid homeostasis. A ‘pro-cancer’ gene signaling network identified increased survival, proliferation, inflammation, metabolism, anti-apoptosis and mobility signaling. IPA-ranked signaling networks identified altered p21, EF1α, Akt, MAPK, and NF-κB signaling networks promoting genetic disorder, altered cell cycle, cancer and changes in nucleic acid and energy metabolism. In conclusion, transformed B-As cells with their whole genome expression profile provide an in vitro arsenic model for future lung cancer signaling research and data for chronic arsenic exposure risk assessment. PMID:22521957

Wake and Sleep EEG in Patients With Huntington Disease: An eLORETA Study and Review of the Literature.

PubMed

Piano, Carla; Mazzucchi, Edoardo; Bentivoglio, Anna Rita; Losurdo, Anna; Calandra Buonaura, Giovanna; Imperatori, Claudio; Cortelli, Pietro; Della Marca, Giacomo

2017-01-01

The aim of the study was to evaluate the EEG modifications in patients with Huntington disease (HD) compared with controls, by means of the exact LOw REsolution Tomography (eLORETA) software. We evaluated EEG changes during wake, non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Moreover, we reviewed the literature concerning EEG modifications in HD. Twenty-three consecutive adult patients affected by HD were enrolled, 14 women and 9 men, mean age was 57.0 ± 12.4 years. Control subjects were healthy volunteers (mean age 58.2 ± 14.6 years). EEG and polygraphic recordings were performed during wake (before sleep) and during sleep. Sources of EEG activities were determined using the eLORETA software. In wake EEG, significant differences between patients and controls were detected in the delta frequency band (threshold T = ±4.606; P < .01) in the Brodmann areas (BAs) 3, 4, and 6 bilaterally. In NREM sleep, HD patients showed increased alpha power (T = ±4.516; P < .01) in BAs 4 and 6 bilaterally; decreased theta power (T = ±4.516; P < .01) in the BAs 23, 29, and 30; and decreased beta power (T = ±4.516; P < .01) in the left BA 30. During REM, HD patients presented decreased theta and alpha power (threshold T = ±4.640; P < .01) in the BAs 23, 29, 30, and 31 bilaterally. In conclusion, EEG data suggest a motor cortex dysfunction during wake and sleep in HD patients, which correlates with the clinical and polysomnographic evidence of increased motor activity during wake and NREM, and nearly absent motor abnormalities in REM. © EEG and Clinical Neuroscience Society (ECNS) 2016.

Patients’ and rheumatologists’ preferences for the attributes of biological agents used in the treatment of rheumatic diseases in Spain

PubMed Central

Nolla, Joan M; Rodríguez, Manuel; Martin-Mola, Emilio; Raya, Enrique; Ibero, Isabel; Nocea, Gonzalo; Aragon, Belén; Lizán, Luis; Prades, Miriam

2016-01-01

Purpose To define importance values assigned to attributes of biological agents (BAs) by Spanish patients with rheumatic diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis) and rheumatologists. Patients and methods This was an observational, cross-sectional design based upon a rank-based full-profile conjoint analysis. A literature review and four focus groups were undertaken to identify attributes and levels. An orthogonal matrix, combining the selected levels of attributes, was used to define scenarios. Participants ranked eight scenarios from 1 (most preferred) to 8 (least preferred). The relative importance (RI) of attributes was calculated. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify the characteristics that influenced the values of RI. A total of 488 patients (male 50.9%, mean age 50.6 [standard deviation {SD} 12.06] years, rheumatoid arthritis 33.8%, ankylosing spondylitis 32.4%, psoriatic arthritis 33.8%; mean time since diagnosis 12.6 [SD 8.2] years) and 136 rheumatologists (male 50.4%, mean age 46.4 [SD 9.1] years, mean time of practice 16.7 [SD 8.8] years) participated. Results The ideal BAs for patients and physicians, respectively, should allow pain relief and improvement of functional capacity (RI 39% and 44.7%), with low risk of adverse events (RI 24.9% and 30.5%), a long time prior to perceiving the need for a new dose (RI 16.4% and 12.4%), and self-administration at home (RI 19.7% and 12.5%), as identified through their preferences. Conclusion Although efficacy and safety are paramount for patients and rheumatologists to make a choice regarding BAs, the need for a low frequency of administration and the administration method also play a role as preference attributes for BAs. PMID:27382258

Stress state and movement potential of the Kar-e-Bas fault zone, Fars, Iran

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarkarinejad, Khalil; Zafarmand, Bahareh

2017-08-01

The Kar-e-Bas or Mengharak basement-inverted fault is comprised of six segments in the Zagros foreland folded belt of Iran. In the Fars region, this fault zone associated with the Kazerun, Sabz-Pushan and Sarvestan faults serves as a lateral transfer zone that accommodates the change in shortening direction from the western central to the eastern Zagros. This study evaluates the recent tectonic stress regime of the Kar-e-Bas fault zone based on inversion of earthquake focal mechanism data, and quantifies the fault movement potential of this zone based on the relationship between fault geometric characteristics and recent tectonic stress regimes. The trend and plunge of σ 1 and σ 3 are S25°W/04°-N31°E/05° and S65°E/04°-N60°W/10°, respectively, with a stress ratio of Φ = 0.83. These results are consistent with the collision direction of the Afro-Arabian continent and the Iranian microcontinent. The near horizontal plunge of maximum and minimum principle stresses and the value of stress ratio Φ indicate that the state of stress is nearly strike-slip dominated with little relative difference between the value of two principal stresses, σ 1 and σ 2. The obliquity of the maximum compressional stress into the fault trend reveals a typical stress partitioning of thrust and strike-slip motion in the Kar-e-Bas fault zone. Analysis of the movement potential of this fault zone shows that its northern segment has a higher potential of fault activity (0.99). The negligible difference between the fault-plane dips of the segments indicates that their strike is a controlling factor in the changes in movement potential.

Analysis Methodology for Balancing Authority Cooperation in High Penetration of Variable Generation

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

Makarov, Yuri V.; Etingov, Pavel V.; Zhou, Ning

2010-02-01

With the rapidly growing penetration level of wind and solar generation, the challenges of managing variability and the uncertainty of intermittent renewable generation become more and more significant. The problem of power variability and uncertainty gets exacerbated when each balancing authority (BA) works locally and separately to balance its own subsystem. The virtual BA concept means various forms of collaboration between individual BAs must manage power variability and uncertainty. The virtual BA will have a wide area control capability in managing its operational balancing requirements in different time frames. This coordination results in the improvement of efficiency and reliability ofmore » power system operation while facilitating the high level integration of green, intermittent energy resources. Several strategies for virtual BA implementation, such as ACE diversity interchange (ADI), wind only BA, BA consolidation, dynamic scheduling, regulation and load following sharing, extreme event impact study are discussed in this report. The objective of such strategies is to allow individual BAs within a large power grid to help each other deal with power variability. Innovative methods have been developed to simulate the balancing operation of BAs. These methods evaluate the BA operation through a number of metrics — such as capacity, ramp rate, ramp duration, energy and cycling requirements — to evaluate the performances of different virtual BA strategies. The report builds a systematic framework for evaluating BA consolidation and coordination. Results for case studies show that significant economic and reliability benefits can be gained. The merits and limitation of each virtual BA strategy are investigated. The report provides guidelines for the power industry to evaluate the coordination or consolidation method. The application of the developed strategies in cooperation with several regional BAs is in progress for several off-spring projects.« less

Revising the BIS/BAS to Study Development: Measurement Invariance and Normative Effects of Age and Sex from Childhood through Adulthood

PubMed Central

Pagliaccio, David; Luking, Katherine R.; Anokhin, Andrey P.; Gotlib, Ian H.; Hayden, Elizabeth P.; Olino, Thomas M.; Peng, Chun-Zi; Hajcak, Greg; Barch, Deanna M.

2015-01-01

Carver and White's Behavioral Inhibition System/Behavioral Activation System (BIS/BAS) Scale has been a useful tool for studying individual differences in reward/punishment sensitivity; however, its factor structure and invariance across development have not been well tested. In the current study, we examined the factor structure of the BIS/BAS Scale across five age groups: 6-10-year-old children (N=229), 11-13-year-old early adolescents (N=311), 14-16-year-old late adolescents (N=353), 18-22-year-old young adults (N=844), and 30-45-year-old adults (N=471). Given poor fit of the standard four-factor model (BIS, Reward Responsivity, Drive, Fun Seeking) in the literature, we conducted exploratory factor analyses in half of the participants and identified problematic items across age groups. The four-factor model showed poor fit in our sample whereas removing the BAS Fun Seeking subscale and problematic items from the remaining subscales improved fit in confirmatory factor analyses conducted with the second half of the participants. The revised model showed strict invariance across age groups and by sex, indicating consistent factor structure, item loadings, thresholds, and unique/residual variances. Additionally, in our cross-sectional data, we observed non-linear relations between age and subscale scores, where scores tended to be higher in young adulthood than childhood and later adulthood. Furthermore, sex differences emerged across development; adolescent and adult females had higher BIS scores than males in this age range, whereas sex differences were not observed in childhood. These differences may help us to understand the rise in internalizing psychopathology in adolescence, particularly in females. Future developmental studies are warranted to examine the impact of rewording problematic items. PMID:26302106

Co-occurrence of alcohol use disorder and behavioral addictions: relevance of impulsivity and craving.

PubMed

Di Nicola, Marco; Tedeschi, Daniela; De Risio, Luisa; Pettorruso, Mauro; Martinotti, Giovanni; Ruggeri, Filippo; Swierkosz-Lenart, Kevin; Guglielmo, Riccardo; Callea, Antonino; Ruggeri, Giuseppe; Pozzi, Gino; Di Giannantonio, Massimo; Janiri, Luigi

2015-03-01

The aims of the study were to evaluate the occurrence of behavioral addictions (BAs) in alcohol use disorder (AUD) subjects and to investigate the role of impulsivity, personality dimensions and craving. 95 AUD outpatients (DSM-5) and 140 homogeneous controls were assessed with diagnostic criteria and specific tests for gambling disorder, compulsive buying, sexual, internet and physical exercise addictions, as well as with the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11) and Temperamental and Character Inventory-Revised (TCI-R). The Obsessive Compulsive Drinking Scale (OCDS) and Visual Analogue Scale for craving (VASc) were also administered to the AUD sample. 28.4% (n=27) of AUD subjects had at least one BA, as compared to 15% (n=21) of controls (χ(2)=6.27; p=.014). In AUD subjects, direct correlations between BIS-11 and Compulsive Buying Scale (CBS), Internet Addiction Disorder test (IAD), Exercise Addiction Inventory-Short Form (EAI-SF) scores (p<.01), between OCDS obsessive and CBS and VASc and CBS, IAD scores (p<.003), were found. BIS-11 (t=-2.36; p=.020), OCDS obsessive (Z=-4.13; p<.001), OCDS compulsive (Z=-2.12; p=.034) and VASc (Z=-4.94; p<.001) scores were higher in AUD subjects with co-occurring BAs. The occurrence of BAs was associated with higher impulsivity traits (BIS-11 scores; OR=1.08; p=.012) and higher craving levels (VASc scores; OR=2.48; p<.001). Our findings emphasize a significant rate of co-occurrence of BAs in AUD. High levels of impulsivity and craving for alcohol seem to be associated with other addictive behaviors. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Synthesis, construction, and evaluation of self-assembled nano-bacitracin A as an efficient antibacterial agent in vitro and in vivo

PubMed Central

Hong, Wei; Gao, Xiang; Qiu, Peng; Yang, Jie; Qiao, Mingxi; Shi, Hong; Zhang, Dexian; Tian, Chunlian; Niu, Shengli; Liu, Mingchun

2017-01-01

Bacitracin A (BA) is an excellent polypeptide antibiotic that is active against gram-positive bacteria without triggering multidrug resistance. However, BA is inactive against gram-negative bacteria because of its inability to cross the outer membrane of these cells, and it has strong nephrotoxicity, thus limiting its clinical applications. Nanoantibiotics can effectively localize antibiotics to the periplasmic space of bacteria while decreasing the adverse effects of antibiotics. In this study, biodegradable hydrophobic copolymers of poly (d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) were attached to the N-termini of BA to design a novel class of self-assembled nano-bacitracin A (nano-BAs), and their potential as antibacterial agents was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Nano-BAs had a core-shell structure with a mean diameter <150 nm. Impressively, nano-BAs had strong antibacterial properties against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, and the distribution of antibacterial activity as a function of PLGA block length was skewed toward longer PLGA chains. No cytotoxicity against HK-2 cells or human red blood cells (hRBCs) was observed in vitro, suggesting good biocompatibility. A high local density of BA mass on the surface promoted endocytotic cellular uptake, and hydrophobic interactions between the PLGA block and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) facilitated the uptake of nano-BAs, thereby leading to greater antibacterial activities. In addition, Nano-BA5K was found to be effective in vivo, and it served as an anti-infective agent for wound healing. Collectively, this study provides a cost-effective means of developing self-assembling nano-polypeptide antibiotic candidates with a broader antibacterial spectrum and a lower toxicity than commercially available peptide antibiotics, owing to their modification with biodegradable copolymers. PMID:28721045

Synthesis, construction, and evaluation of self-assembled nano-bacitracin A as an efficient antibacterial agent in vitro and in vivo.

PubMed

Hong, Wei; Gao, Xiang; Qiu, Peng; Yang, Jie; Qiao, Mingxi; Shi, Hong; Zhang, Dexian; Tian, Chunlian; Niu, Shengli; Liu, Mingchun

2017-01-01

Bacitracin A (BA) is an excellent polypeptide antibiotic that is active against gram-positive bacteria without triggering multidrug resistance. However, BA is inactive against gram-negative bacteria because of its inability to cross the outer membrane of these cells, and it has strong nephrotoxicity, thus limiting its clinical applications. Nanoantibiotics can effectively localize antibiotics to the periplasmic space of bacteria while decreasing the adverse effects of antibiotics. In this study, biodegradable hydrophobic copolymers of poly (d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) were attached to the N-termini of BA to design a novel class of self-assembled nano-bacitracin A (nano-BAs), and their potential as antibacterial agents was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Nano-BAs had a core-shell structure with a mean diameter <150 nm. Impressively, nano-BAs had strong antibacterial properties against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, and the distribution of antibacterial activity as a function of PLGA block length was skewed toward longer PLGA chains. No cytotoxicity against HK-2 cells or human red blood cells (hRBCs) was observed in vitro, suggesting good biocompatibility. A high local density of BA mass on the surface promoted endocytotic cellular uptake, and hydrophobic interactions between the PLGA block and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) facilitated the uptake of nano-BAs, thereby leading to greater antibacterial activities. In addition, Nano-BA 5K was found to be effective in vivo, and it served as an anti-infective agent for wound healing. Collectively, this study provides a cost-effective means of developing self-assembling nano-polypeptide antibiotic candidates with a broader antibacterial spectrum and a lower toxicity than commercially available peptide antibiotics, owing to their modification with biodegradable copolymers.

Functional electrospun nanofibers for multimodal sensitive detection of biogenic amines in food via a simple dipstick assay.

PubMed

Yurova, Nadezhda S; Danchuk, Alexandra; Mobarez, Sarah N; Wongkaew, Nongnoot; Rusanova, Tatiana; Baeumner, Antje J; Duerkop, Axel

2018-01-01

Electrospun nanofibers (ENFs) are promising materials for rapid diagnostic tests like lateral flow assays and dipsticks because they offer an immense surface area while excluding minimal volume, a variety of functional surface groups, and can entrap functional additives within their interior. Here, we show that ENFs on sample pads are superior in comparison to standard polymer membranes for the optical detection of biogenic amines (BAs) in food using a dipstick format. Specifically, cellulose acetate (CA) fibers doped with 2 mg/mL of the chromogenic and fluorogenic amine-reactive chameleon dye Py-1 were electrospun into uniform anionic mats. Those extract cationic BAs from real samples and Py-1 transduces BA concentrations into a change of color, reflectance, and fluorescence. Dropping a BA sample onto the nanofiber mat converts the weakly fluorescent pyrylium dye Py-1 into a strongly red emitting pyridinium dye. For the first time, a simple UV lamp excites fluorescence and a digital camera acts as detector. The intensity ratio of the red to the blue channel of the digital image is dependent on the concentration of most relevant BAs indicating food spoilage from 10 to 250 μM. This matches the permitted limits for BAs in foods and no false positive signals arise from secondary and tertiary amines. BA detection in seafood samples was also demonstrated successfully. The nanofiber mat dipsticks were up to sixfold more sensitive than those using a polymer membrane with the same dye embedded. Hence, nanofiber-based tests are not only superior to polymer-based dipstick assays, but will also improve the performance of established tests related to food safety, medical diagnostics, and environmental testing. Graphical Absract ᅟ.

TGR5 signalling inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines by in vitro differentiated inflammatory and intestinal macrophages in Crohn's disease

PubMed Central

Yoneno, Kazuaki; Hisamatsu, Tadakazu; Shimamura, Katsuyoshi; Kamada, Nobuhiko; Ichikawa, Riko; Kitazume, Mina T; Mori, Maiko; Uo, Michihide; Namikawa, Yuka; Matsuoka, Katsuyoshi; Sato, Toshiro; Koganei, Kazutaka; Sugita, Akira; Kanai, Takanori; Hibi, Toshifumi

2013-01-01

Bile acids (BAs) play important roles not only in lipid metabolism, but also in signal transduction. TGR5, a transmembrane receptor of BAs, is an immunomodulative factor, but its detailed mechanism remains unclear. Here, we aimed to delineate how BAs operate in immunological responses via the TGR5 pathway in human mononuclear cell lineages. We examined TGR5 expression in human peripheral blood monocytes, several types of in vitro differentiated macrophages (Mϕs) and dendritic cells. Mϕs differentiated with macrophage colony-stimulating factor and interferon-γ (Mγ-Mϕs), which are similar to the human intestinal lamina propria CD14+ Mϕs that contribute to Crohn's disease (CD) pathogenesis by production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, highly expressed TGR5 compared with any other type of differentiated Mϕ and dendritic cells. We also showed that a TGR5 agonist and two types of BAs, deoxycholic acid and lithocholic acid, could inhibit tumour necrosis factor-α production in Mγ-Mϕs stimulated by commensal bacterial antigen or lipopolysaccharide. This inhibitory effect was mediated by the TGR5–cAMP pathway to induce phosphorylation of c-Fos that regulated nuclear factor-κB p65 activation. Next, we analysed TGR5 levels in lamina propria mononuclear cells (LPMCs) obtained from the intestinal mucosa of patients with CD. Compared with non-inflammatory bowel disease, inflamed CD LPMCs contained more TGR5 transcripts. Among LPMCs, isolated CD14+ intestinal Mϕs from patients with CD expressed TGR5. In isolated intestinal CD14+ Mϕs, a TGR5 agonist could inhibit tumour necrosis factor-α production. These results indicate that TGR5 signalling may have the potential to modulate immune responses in inflammatory bowel disease. PMID:23566200

Inhibition of ice recrystallization and cryoprotective activity of wheat proteins in liver and pancreatic cells

PubMed Central

Chow‐Shi‐Yée, Mélanie; Briard, Jennie G.; Grondin, Mélanie; Averill‐Bates, Diana A.

2016-01-01

Abstract Efficient cryopreservation of cells at ultralow temperatures requires the use of substances that help maintain viability and metabolic functions post‐thaw. We are developing new technology where plant proteins are used to substitute the commonly‐used, but relatively toxic chemical dimethyl sulfoxide. Recombinant forms of four structurally diverse wheat proteins, TaIRI‐2 (ice recrystallization inhibition), TaBAS1 (2‐Cys peroxiredoxin), WCS120 (dehydrin), and TaENO (enolase) can efficiently cryopreserve hepatocytes and insulin‐secreting INS832/13 cells. This study shows that TaIRI‐2 and TaENO are internalized during the freeze–thaw process, while TaBAS1 and WCS120 remain at the extracellular level. Possible antifreeze activity of the four proteins was assessed. The “splat cooling” method for quantifying ice recrystallization inhibition activity (a property that characterizes antifreeze proteins) revealed that TaIRI‐2 and TaENO are more potent than TaBAS1 and WCS120. Because of their ability to inhibit ice recrystallization, the wheat recombinant proteins TaIRI‐2 and TaENO are promising candidates and could prove useful to improve cryopreservation protocols for hepatocytes and insulin‐secreting cells, and possibly other cell types. TaENO does not have typical ice‐binding domains, and the TargetFreeze tool did not predict an antifreeze capacity, suggesting the existence of nontypical antifreeze domains. The fact that TaBAS1 is an efficient cryoprotectant but does not show antifreeze activity indicates a different mechanism of action. The cryoprotective properties conferred by WCS120 depend on biochemical properties that remain to be determined. Overall, our results show that the proteins' efficiencies vary between cell types, and confirm that a combination of different protection mechanisms is needed to successfully cryopreserve mammalian cells. PMID:26889747

Inhibition of ice recrystallization and cryoprotective activity of wheat proteins in liver and pancreatic cells.

PubMed

Chow-Shi-Yée, Mélanie; Briard, Jennie G; Grondin, Mélanie; Averill-Bates, Diana A; Ben, Robert N; Ouellet, François

2016-05-01

Efficient cryopreservation of cells at ultralow temperatures requires the use of substances that help maintain viability and metabolic functions post-thaw. We are developing new technology where plant proteins are used to substitute the commonly-used, but relatively toxic chemical dimethyl sulfoxide. Recombinant forms of four structurally diverse wheat proteins, TaIRI-2 (ice recrystallization inhibition), TaBAS1 (2-Cys peroxiredoxin), WCS120 (dehydrin), and TaENO (enolase) can efficiently cryopreserve hepatocytes and insulin-secreting INS832/13 cells. This study shows that TaIRI-2 and TaENO are internalized during the freeze-thaw process, while TaBAS1 and WCS120 remain at the extracellular level. Possible antifreeze activity of the four proteins was assessed. The "splat cooling" method for quantifying ice recrystallization inhibition activity (a property that characterizes antifreeze proteins) revealed that TaIRI-2 and TaENO are more potent than TaBAS1 and WCS120. Because of their ability to inhibit ice recrystallization, the wheat recombinant proteins TaIRI-2 and TaENO are promising candidates and could prove useful to improve cryopreservation protocols for hepatocytes and insulin-secreting cells, and possibly other cell types. TaENO does not have typical ice-binding domains, and the TargetFreeze tool did not predict an antifreeze capacity, suggesting the existence of nontypical antifreeze domains. The fact that TaBAS1 is an efficient cryoprotectant but does not show antifreeze activity indicates a different mechanism of action. The cryoprotective properties conferred by WCS120 depend on biochemical properties that remain to be determined. Overall, our results show that the proteins' efficiencies vary between cell types, and confirm that a combination of different protection mechanisms is needed to successfully cryopreserve mammalian cells. © 2016 The Protein Society.

A Novel Scale Up Model for Prediction of Pharmaceutical Film Coating Process Parameters.

PubMed

Suzuki, Yasuhiro; Suzuki, Tatsuya; Minami, Hidemi; Terada, Katsuhide

2016-01-01

In the pharmaceutical tablet film coating process, we clarified that a difference in exhaust air relative humidity can be used to detect differences in process parameters values, the relative humidity of exhaust air was different under different atmospheric air humidity conditions even though all setting values of the manufacturing process parameters were the same, and the water content of tablets was correlated with the exhaust air relative humidity. Based on this experimental data, the exhaust air relative humidity index (EHI), which is an empirical equation that includes as functional parameters the pan coater type, heated air flow rate, spray rate of coating suspension, saturated water vapor pressure at heated air temperature, and partial water vapor pressure at atmospheric air pressure, was developed. The predictive values of exhaust relative humidity using EHI were in good correlation with the experimental data (correlation coefficient of 0.966) in all datasets. EHI was verified using the date of seven different drug products of different manufacturing scales. The EHI model will support formulation researchers by enabling them to set film coating process parameters when the batch size or pan coater type changes, and without the time and expense of further extensive testing.

Overpaint Removal on a Gilded Wooden Bas-Relief Using a Nd:YAG Laser at 1.064 µm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Strzelec, M.; Marczak, J.; Koss, A.; Szambelan, R.

The paper presents the work on laser renovation of wooden bas-relief (lime tree), consisting of three figures: Saint Anna and Mary with Jesus, made by unknown artist at the beginning of XVII century. Almost whole relief surface is covered by gilding placed on a special preparation (bolus alba) with binding media. The painting layers cover only the parts of complexion and hairs of figures. The application of a 1.064 µm, Q-switched, Nd:YAG laser, allowed to unveil, in a short time the intact substrate of the object with well preserved gilding remains.

Physics and our View of the World

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hilgevoord, Jan

1994-11-01

Foreword; 1. Introduction JAN HILGEVOORD; 2. Questioning the answers GERARD T. HOOFT; 3. Theories of everything JOHN BARROW; 4. The scientific view of the world DENNIS DIEKS; 5. Enlarging the world ERNAN McMULLIN; 6. The world of empiricism BAS VAN FRAASSEN; 7. Has the scientific view of the world a special status compared with other views? PAUL FEYERABEND; 8. Quantum theory and our view of the world PAUL FEYERABEND; 9. Interpretation of science - science as interpretation BAS VAN FRAASSEN; 10. Problems in debates about physics and religion WILLEM DREES; 11. The mind of God PAUL DAVIES; 12. The sources of models for God: metaphysics or metaphor? MARY HESSE; 13. Discussion.

Personality correlates of individual differences in the recruitment of cognitive mechanisms when rewards are at stake.

PubMed

Heritage, Allan J; Long, Laura J; Woodman, Geoffrey F; Zald, David H

2018-02-01

Individuals differ greatly in their sensitivity to rewards and punishments. In the extreme, these differences are implicated in a range of psychiatric disorders from addiction to depression. However, it is unclear how these differences influence the recruitment of attention, working memory, and long-term memory when responding to potential rewards. Here, we used a rewarded memory-guided visual search task and ERPs to examine the influence of individual differences in self-reported reward/punishment sensitivity, as measured by the Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS)/Behavioral Activation System (BAS) scales, on the recruitment of cognitive mechanisms in conditions of potential reward. Select subscales of the BAS, including the fun seeking and reward responsiveness scales, showed unique relationships with context updating to reward cues and working memory maintenance of potentially rewarded stimuli. In contrast, BIS scores showed unique relationships with deployment of attention at different points in the task. These results suggest that sensitivity to rewards (i.e., BAS) and to punishment (i.e., BIS) may play an important role in the recruitment of specific and distinct cognitive mechanisms in conditions of potential rewards. © 2017 Society for Psychophysiological Research.

Determinants of orofacial clefting II: Effects of 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine on gene methylation during development of the first branchial arch.

PubMed

Seelan, Ratnam S; Mukhopadhyay, Partha; Warner, Dennis R; Smolenkova, Irina A; Pisano, M Michele; Greene, Robert M

2017-01-01

Defects in development of the secondary palate, which arise from the embryonic first branchial arch (1-BA), can cause cleft palate (CP). Administration of 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine (AzaD), a demethylating agent, to pregnant mice on gestational day 9.5 resulted in complete penetrance of CP in fetuses. Several genes critical for normal palatogenesis were found to be upregulated in 1-BA, 12h after AzaD exposure. MethylCap-Seq (MCS) analysis identified several differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in DNA extracted from AzaD-exposed 1-BAs. Hypomethylated DMRs did not correlate with the upregulation of genes in AzaD-exposed 1-BAs. However, most DMRs were associated with endogenous retroviral elements. Expression analyses suggested that interferon signaling was activated in AzaD-exposed 1-BAs. Our data, thus, suggest that a 12-h in utero AzaD exposure demethylates and activates endogenous retroviral elements in the 1-BA, thereby triggering an interferon-mediated response. This may result in the dysregulation of key signaling pathways during palatogenesis, causing CP. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Computer-aided discovery of biological activity spectra for anti-aging and anti-cancer olive oil oleuropeins.

PubMed

Corominas-Faja, Bruna; Santangelo, Elvira; Cuyàs, Elisabet; Micol, Vicente; Joven, Jorge; Ariza, Xavier; Segura-Carretero, Antonio; García, Jordi; Menendez, Javier A

2014-09-01

Aging is associated with common conditions, including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer's disease. The type of multi-targeted pharmacological approach necessary to address a complex multifaceted disease such as aging might take advantage of pleiotropic natural polyphenols affecting a wide variety of biological processes. We have recently postulated that the secoiridoids oleuropein aglycone (OA) and decarboxymethyl oleuropein aglycone (DOA), two complex polyphenols present in health-promoting extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), might constitute a new family of plant-produced gerosuppressant agents. This paper describes an analysis of the biological activity spectra (BAS) of OA and DOA using PASS (Prediction of Activity Spectra for Substances) software. PASS can predict thousands of biological activities, as the BAS of a compound is an intrinsic property that is largely dependent on the compound's structure and reflects pharmacological effects, physiological and biochemical mechanisms of action, and specific toxicities. Using Pharmaexpert, a tool that analyzes the PASS-predicted BAS of substances based on thousands of "mechanism-effect" and "effect-mechanism" relationships, we illuminate hypothesis-generating pharmacological effects, mechanisms of action, and targets that might underlie the anti-aging/anti-cancer activities of the gerosuppressant EVOO oleuropeins.

Lateralisation effect in comprehension of emotional facial expression: a comparison between EEG alpha band power and behavioural inhibition (BIS) and activation (BAS) systems.

PubMed

Balconi, Michela; Mazza, Guido

2010-05-01

Asymmetry in comprehension of facial expression of emotions was explored in the present study by analysing alpha band variation within the right and left cortical sides. Second, the behavioural activation system (BAS) and behavioural inhibition system (BIS) were considered as an explicative factor to verify the effect of a motivational/emotional variable on alpha activity. A total of 19 participants looked at an ample range of facial expressions of emotions (anger, fear, surprise, disgust, happiness, sadness, and neutral) in random order. The results demonstrated that anterior frontal sites were more active than central and parietal sites in response to facial stimuli. Moreover, right and left side responses varied as a function of emotional types, with an increased right frontal activity for negative, aversive emotions vs an increased left response for positive emotion. Finally, whereas higher BIS participants generated more right hemisphere activation for some negative emotions (such as fear, anger, surprise, and disgust), BAS participants were more responsive to positive emotion (happiness) within the left hemisphere. Motivational significance of facial expressions was considered to elucidate cortical differences in participants' responses to emotional types.

Altered Reward Reactivity as a Behavioural Endophenotype in Eating Disorders: A Pilot Investigation in Twins.

PubMed

Kanakam, Natalie; Krug, Isabel; Collier, David; Treasure, Janet

2017-05-01

Altered reward reactivity is a potential risk endophenotype for eating disorders (EDs). The aim of this study was to examine reward reactivity in female twins with EDs and compare it with a twin control group. A sample of 112 twins [n = 51 met lifetime DSM-IV ED criteria (anorexia nervosa n = 26; bulimic disorders n = 24), n = 19 unaffected cotwins and n = 42 control twins] was administered measures assessing reward reactivity, including the Game of Dice Task, the Behavioural Inhibition/Activation (BIS/BAS) Scales and the Appetitive Motivation Scale (AMS). Within pair, correlations for monozygotic and dizygotic twins were calculated and generalised estimating equations compared probands with non-ED cotwins and controls. The BAS and the AMS were reduced in EDs and negatively associated with restrictive symptoms. In addition, monozygotic twins pairs demonstrated significant within pair similarity for the BAS and AMS. Conversely, there was less evidence to support the BIS or risky decision-making as measured by the Game of Dice Task as an endophenotype in EDs. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.

Full scale implementation of the nutrient limited BAS process at Södra Cell Värö.

PubMed

Malmqvist, A; Berggren, B; Sjölin, C; Welander, T; Heuts, L; Fransén, A; Ling, D

2004-01-01

A combination of the suspended carrier biofilm process and the activated sludge process (biofilm-activated sludge--BAS) has been shown to be very successful for the treatment of different types of pulp and paper mill effluents. The robust biofilm pre-treatment in combination with activated sludge results in a stable, compact and highly efficient process. Recent findings have shown that nutrient limited operation of the biofilm process greatly improves the sludge characteristics in the following activated sludge stage, while minimising sludge production and effluent discharge of nutrients. The nutrient limited BAS process was implemented at full scale at the Södra Cell Värö kraft mill and taken into operation in July 2002. After start-up and optimisation over about 5 months, the process meets all effluent discharge limits. The removal of COD is close to 70% and the removal of EDTA greater than 90%. Typical effluent concentrations of suspended solids and nutrients during stable operations have been 20-30 mg/L TSS, 0.3-0.5 mg/L phosphorus and 3-5 mg/L nitrogen. The sludge production was 0.09 kgSS/kg COD removed and the sludge volume index was 50-100 mL/g.

Optical visualisation of thermogenesis in stimulated single-cell brown adipocytes.

PubMed

Kriszt, Rókus; Arai, Satoshi; Itoh, Hideki; Lee, Michelle H; Goralczyk, Anna G; Ang, Xiu Min; Cypess, Aaron M; White, Andrew P; Shamsi, Farnaz; Xue, Ruidan; Lee, Jung Yeol; Lee, Sung-Chan; Hou, Yanyan; Kitaguchi, Tetsuya; Sudhaharan, Thankiah; Ishiwata, Shin'ichi; Lane, E Birgitte; Chang, Young-Tae; Tseng, Yu-Hua; Suzuki, Madoka; Raghunath, Michael

2017-05-03

The identification of brown adipose deposits in adults has led to significant interest in targeting this metabolically active tissue for treatment of obesity and diabetes. Improved methods for the direct measurement of heat production as the signature function of brown adipocytes (BAs), particularly at the single cell level, would be of substantial benefit to these ongoing efforts. Here, we report the first application of a small molecule-type thermosensitive fluorescent dye, ERthermAC, to monitor thermogenesis in BAs derived from murine brown fat precursors and in human brown fat cells differentiated from human neck brown preadipocytes. ERthermAC accumulated in the endoplasmic reticulum of BAs and displayed a marked change in fluorescence intensity in response to adrenergic stimulation of cells, which corresponded to temperature change. ERthermAC fluorescence intensity profiles were congruent with mitochondrial depolarisation events visualised by the JC-1 probe. Moreover, the averaged fluorescence intensity changes across a population of cells correlated well with dynamic changes such as thermal power, oxygen consumption, and extracellular acidification rates. These findings suggest ERthermAC as a promising new tool for studying thermogenic function in brown adipocytes of both murine and human origins.

A strategy to modulate the electrophoretic behavior in plastic microchips using sodium polystyrene sulfonate.

PubMed

Guo, Jinxiu; Chen, Yu; Zhao, Lizhi; Sun, Ping; Li, Hongli; Zhou, Lei; Wang, Xiayan; Pu, Qiaosheng

2016-12-16

Plastic microchips have been broadly used as disposable microfluidic devices, but the poorly defined surface properties limit their application. Herein, we proved that an anionic polymer could be used as the background electrolyte (BGE) to provide a strong and stable cathodic electroosmotic flow (EOF) and modulate the electrophoretic behavior for efficient separation in relative thicker microchannels (∼75μm id). A cathodic EOF of ∼3.3×10 -4 cm 2 V -1 s -1 was maintained using sodium polystyrene sulfonate (PSSNa) with a molecular weight of 5×10 5 as the BGE, which ensured fluorescein isothiocyanate labeled biogenic amines (BAs) appeared ahead of other components in the electropherograms obtained with microchips of cyclic olefin copolymer. Four selected BAs appeared within 50s and theoretical plate numbers of 8.0×10 5 /m were achieved. The role of PSSNa was evaluated with streaming potential, dynamic light scattering, contact angle and atomic force microscopy. Its functionalities as surface modifier, viscosity regulator and pseudostationary phase were also confirmed. The proposed electrophoretic method was applied in the fast determination of BAs in fish meat samples. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nuclear receptor FXR, bile acids and liver damage: Introducing the progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis with FXR mutations.

PubMed

Cariello, Marica; Piccinin, Elena; Garcia-Irigoyen, Oihane; Sabbà, Carlo; Moschetta, Antonio

2018-04-01

The nuclear receptor farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is the master regulator of bile acids (BAs) homeostasis since it transcriptionally drives modulation of BA synthesis, influx, efflux, and detoxification along the enterohepatic axis. Due to its crucial role, FXR alterations are involved in the progression of a plethora of BAs associated inflammatory disorders in the liver and in the gut. The involvement of the FXR pathway in cholestasis development and management has been elucidated so far with a direct role of FXR activating therapy in this condition. However, the recent identification of a new type of genetic progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC) linked to FXR mutations has strengthen also the bona fide beneficial effects of target therapies that by-pass FXR activation, directly promoting the action of its target, namely the enterokine FGF19, in the repression of hepatic BAs synthesis with reduction of total BA levels in the liver and serum, accomplishing one of the major goals in cholestasis. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Cholangiocytes in Health and Diseaseedited by Jesus Banales, Marco Marzioni and Peter Jansen. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Attenuation of fluorocarbons released from foam insulation in landfills.

PubMed

Scheutz, Charlotte; Dote, Yutaka; Fredenslund, Anders M; Mosbaek, Hans; Kjeldsen, Peter

2007-11-15

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) have been used as blowing agents (BAs) for foam insulation in home appliances and building materials, which after the end of their useful life are disposed of in landfills. The objective of this project was to evaluate the potential for degradation of BAs in landfills, and to develop a landfill model, which could simulate the fate of BAs in landfills. The investigation was performed by use of anaerobic microcosm studies using different types of organic waste and anaerobic digested sludge as inoculum. The BAs studied were CFC-11, CFC-12, HCFC-141b, HFC-134a, and HFC-245fa. Experiments considering the fate of some of the expected degradations products of CFC-11 and CFC-12 were included like HCFC-21, HCFC-22, HCFC-31, HCFC-32, and HFC-41. Degradation of all studied CFCs and HCFCs was observed regardless the type of waste used. In general, the degradation followed first-order kinetics. CFC-11 was rapidly degraded from 590 microg L(-1) to less than 5 microg L(-1) within 15-20 days. The degradation pattern indicated a sequential production of HCFC-21, HCFC-31, and HFC-41. However, the production of degradation products did not correlate with a stoichiometric removal of CFC-11 indicating that other degradation products were produced. HCFC-21 and HCFC-31 were further degraded whereas no further degradation of HFC-41 was observed. The degradation rate coefficient was directly correlated with the number of chlorine atoms attached to the carbon. The highest degradation rate coefficient was obtained for CFC-11, whereas lower rates were seen for HCFC-21 and HCFC-31. Equivalent results were obtained for CFC-12. HCFC-141b was also degraded with rates comparable to HCFC-21 and CFC-12. Anaerobic degradation of the studied HFCs was not observed in any of the experiments within a run time of up to 200 days. The obtained degradation rate coefficients were used as input for an extended version of an existing landfill fate model incorporating a time dependent BA release from co-disposed foam insulation waste. Predictions with the model indicate that the emission of foam released BAs may be strongly attenuated by microbial degradation reactions. Sensitivity analysis suggests that there is a need for determination of degradation rates under more field realistic scenarios.

Advanced Concept for Creation of Security Holograms / PROGRESĪVĀ Koncepcija AIZSARDZĪBAS Hologrammas Izveidei

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bulanovs, A.; Gerbreders, S.

2013-12-01

A new concept is proposed for digital hologram production along with the relevant techniques developed in our laboratory. The main idea of the concept is to maximally separate the calculation of hologram from its optical recording on the light-sensitive media. A special file format containing information on each holographic pixel is created at the stage of calculation. The file is a device-independent by structure, and can be employed for recording a hologram using any of the existing techniques (dot-matrix, optical matrix lithography, e-beam lithography). An optical lithography device is applied to calculate the images for a spatial light modulator at the stage of hologram recording in accordance with the data from the file and in conformity with the hardware features of the device. The proposed method was tested and successfully used to record security holograms. For commercial use a software package and an optical recording system have been developed. Šajā rakstā tiek apskatītas koncepcijas un metodes, kuras tiek izmantotas drošības hologrammu ražošanai mūsu laboratorijā. Koncepcijas galvenā ideja ir hologrammas aprēķina posmu maksimālais sadalījums no hologrammu optiskā ieraksta uz gaismas jūtīgām vidēm. Hologrammas aprēķina posmā tiek izveidots īpaša formāta fails, kas satur pilnu informāciju par katru hologrāfisko pikseli. Pēc struktūras fails ir neatkarīgs no ierīces un to var izmantot hologrammas ierakstam pēc jebkuras no esošajām tehnoloģijām. Hologrammas ieraksta posmā optiskā litogrāfijas iekārta pēc faila datiem veic SLM (Spatial Light Modulator) attēla aprēķinu, ievērojot iekārtas darbības īpatnības. Piedāvātā metode ir pārbaudīta un veiksmīgi tiek izmantota drošības hologrammu ierakstam. Izstrādāta programmu pakete un optiskā ieraksta iekārta komerciālai izmantošanai.

Le Programme d’enseignement décentralisé et la rétention des médecins omnipraticiens dans la région du Bas-Saint-Laurent au Québec

PubMed Central

Bustinza, Ray; Gagnon, Suzanne; Burigusa, Guillaume

2009-01-01

Résumé OBJECTIF Le but de cette étude était d’évaluer l’impact sur la rétention des médecins omnipraticiens du programme d’enseignement décentralisé, des mesures incitatives financières et de l’origine du médecin. DEVIS Nos données sont tirées de la banque du suivi des effectifs médicaux de la Régie régionale de la santé et des services sociaux du Bas-Saint-Laurent. Les questionnaires complétés par les médecins dans le cadre de cette étude ont été envoyés par la poste. MILIEU Bas-Saint-Laurent, Qué. PARTICIPANTS Des médecins omnipraticiens pratiquant depuis 1985 à août 2003 dans la région. MÉTHODOLOGIE Pour les analyses statistiques, nous avons fait appel à l’analyse multivariée, en utilisant le modèle des taux proportionnels de Cox de l’analyse de survie. RÉSULTATS La probabilité ajustée de demeurer en région, selon l’exposition aux stages de résidence en région, présente une tendance positive avec un rapport de 2,12 (P = 0,15). La probabilité de rester dans la région grimpe jusqu’à 4,5 fois plus (P < 0,01) pour un médecin originaire du Bas-Saint-Laurent. Le lien avec les mesures incitatives financières montre que la probabilité ajustée de demeurer dans le Bas-Saint-Laurent n’est pas significativement différente selon qu’ils aient ou non reçu les primes d’installation ou la bourse de la Régie de l’assurance-maladie du Québec. CONCLUSION Les facteurs les plus prometteurs pour retenir les médecins omnipraticiens en région touchent le recrutement en médecine de candidats des régions rurales et la formation décentralisée. PMID:19752242

[A study of temperament and personality in children diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)].

PubMed

Bouvard, M; Sigel, L; Laurent, A

2012-10-01

The study of children's personality and its development has generated several theoretical models in psychology. In a developmental approach, Buss and Plomin elaborated a genetic model of temperament that involves four dimensions: emotionality (refers to the negative quality of the emotion and the intensity of the emotional reactions), activity (intensity and frequency of a person's energy output in motor movements and speech), sociability (search for social relationships and preference for activities with others) and shyness (behavioural inhibition and feelings of distress when in interaction with strangers). The psychobiological approach postulates a biological model of personality. Thus, in Gray's first model, there are two brain systems that explain behaviours: the Bbehavioural Activation System (BAS) related to impulsivity and the Behavioural Inhibition System (BIS) linked to anxiety. Finally, dispositional theories seek to identify functional units of the normal personality from the factorial approach. Accordingly, Barbaranelli et al. build a questionnaire, the big five questionnaire for children (BFQ-C), which is intended to estimate the emergence of five fundamental dimensions (energy/extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, emotional instability and intellect/openness) in children from 8 to 18 years. The clinical study we will present concerns the personality of children suffering from attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). STUDY 1: In a first study, we compared the ratings of 33 children with ADHD regarding their personality, as well as the ratings of their parents, over a one-year interval. The EAS questionnaire tapping into the genetic model put forth by Buss and Plomin evaluates four dimensions: emotionality, activity, sociability and shyness. The BIS/BAS scales for children correspond to Gray's first psychobiological model of personality. The BIS scale is unidimensional and the BAS scale is divided into three subscales (drive, fun-seeking and reward responsiveness). The answers collected from parents at the two moments of completion of the EAS were comparable and the correlations were all higher than 0.70. Concerning the children, there were no significant differences between the two time periods but the correlations were rather low. On the BIS/BAS scales, they varied from 0.22 (fun-seeking BAS scale) to 0.51 (BIS scale), whereas the obtained correlations on the EAS ranged from 0.32 (emotionality) to 0.58 (activity and shyness). Finally, to compare the answers of the children with their parents on the EAS questionnaire, we used a correlation coefficient test. For time 1, the correlations varied from 0.54 (emotionality) to 0.69 (sociability), and for time 2, they varied from 0.18 (sociability) to 0.50 (shyness). The concordance between the parents' and children' answers was thus higher than in a group from the general population. STUDY 2: In the second study, we compared the personality of children with ADHD (n=35) with a sample from the general population (n=35). The two groups of subjects were matched on age (mean: 12.7 years) and made comparable for gender. Participants with ADHD were comparable with control participants on the BIS, as well as on the reward responsiveness subscale of the BAS. Furthermore, participants with ADHD and controls were comparable concerning the tendency to avoid and the anxiety. However, as expected, those with ADHD obtained higher scores on two subscales of the BAS. Concerning the traits of temperament, participants with ADHD reported being more active and having greater emotionality than did control subjects. On the other hand, there were no group differences for the two other aspects of temperament (sociability and shyness). Finally, participants with ADHD obtained higher scores on the BFQ-C than did control participants. It is interesting to note that children with ADHD obtained higher scores on the extraversion scale of the BFQ-C and the activity scale of the EAS. Our findings parallel the existing literature concerning the neuroticism scale of the BFQ-C and the BAS, but not the agreeableness and conscientiousness scales of the BFQ-C. It is interesting to note that children have a less stable representation of their own temperament as compared to the evaluation of their parents. This study replicates the findings of previous research on adults with ADHD regarding neuroticism (emotional instability), but contrary to findings in adults with ADHD, children obtained elevated scores on the conscientiousness and agreeableness subscales. In accordance with our hypotheses, children with ADHD could be distinguished from control participants on the BAS, particularly for the drive and reward responsiveness subscales. Furthermore, they also obtained higher scores on the extraversion subscale of the BFQ-C and the on the EAS activity subscale. Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

[Effects of dissolved oxygen and pH on Candida utilis batch fermentation of glutathione].

PubMed

Wei, Gong-Yuan; Li, Yin; Du, Guo-Cheng; Chen, Jian

2003-11-01

The effects of dissolved oxygen (DO) and pH on glutathione batch fermentation by Candida utilis WSH-02-08 in a 7 liters stirred fermentor were investigated. It was shown that DO concentration is an important factor in glutathione production. With the initial glucose concentration of 30 g/L and a 5 L/min air flow rate, and the agitation rate less than 250 r/min, the DO concentration was not sufficient to satisfy the oxygen requirement during the fermentation. With an agitation rate of more than 300 r/min, the cell growth and glutathione production were enhanced significantly, with the dry cell mass and glutathione production were 20% and 25% higher than that at 200 r/min. When C. utilis WSH 02-08 was cultivated in a batch process without pH control, cell growth and glutathione production were inhibited, likely due to a dramatic decrease in the pH. Intracellular glutathione leakages were observed when the pH was 1.5 or less. To assess the effect of pH on glutathione production, six batch processes controlled at pH 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0 and 6.5 were conducted. The yield was highest at pH 5.5, when the dry cell mass and yield were 27% and 95% respectively higher than fermentation without pH control. The maximal intracellular glutathione content (2.15 %) was also achieved at the pH. To improve our understandings on the effect of pH on the batch glutathione production, a modified Logistic equation and Luedeking-Piret equation were used to simulate cell growth and glutathione production, respectively, under different pH. Based on the parameters obtained by the nonlinear estimation, kinetic analysis was performed to elucidate the effect of pH on the batch glutathione production. The process controlled at pH 5.5 was proven to be the best due to the higher value of K(I) (substrate inhibitory constant in the Logistic equation), lower value of a and higher value of beta (slope and intercept in the Luedeking-Piret equation, respectively).

A strategy for the highly efficient production of docosahexaenoic acid by Aurantiochytrium limacinum SR21 using glucose and glycerol as the mixed carbon sources.

PubMed

Li, Jing; Liu, Ruijie; Chang, Guifang; Li, Xiangyu; Chang, Ming; Liu, Yuanfa; Jin, Qingzhe; Wang, Xingguo

2015-02-01

Glucose and glycerol are useful carbon sources for the cultivation of Aurantiochytrium limacinum SR21. Glucose facilitates rapid growth and lipid synthesis, and glycerol promotes the accumulation of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in A. limacinum SR21. To improve the DHA productivity of A. limacinum SR21, shake flask and fed-batch cultures were performed using glucose and glycerol as mixed carbon sources (MCSs). Along with optimization of the MCSs, the best DHA yield and productivity (32.36 g/L and 337.1 mg/L/h) were obtained via fed-batch fermentation with maintenance of a constant air supply. The DHA productivity was 15.24% higher than that obtained using glucose as single carbon source (SCS). This study presents a highly efficient and economic strategy for the production of DHA by A. limacinum SR21. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Enhanced Production of Poly-γ-glutamic Acid by Bacillus licheniformis TISTR 1010 with Environmental Controls.

PubMed

Kongklom, Nuttawut; Shi, Zhongping; Chisti, Yusuf; Sirisansaneeyakul, Sarote

2017-07-01

Bacillus licheniformis TISTR 1010 was used for glutamic acid-independent production of poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA). A fed-batch production strategy was developed involving feedings of glucose, citric acid, and ammonium chloride at specified stages of the fermentation. With the dissolved oxygen concentration controlled at ≥50% of air saturation and the pH controlled at ~7.4, the fed-batch operation at 37 °C afforded a peak γ-PGA concentration of 39.9 ± 0.3 g L -1 with a productivity of 0.926 ± 0.006 g L -1  h -1 . The observed productivity was nearly threefold greater than previously reported for glutamic acid-independent production using the strain TISTR 1010. The molecular weight of γ-PGA was in the approximate range of 60 to 135 kDa.

Batch conversion of methane to methanol using Methylosinus trichosporium OB3b as biocatalyst.

PubMed

Hwang, In Yeub; Hur, Dong Hoon; Lee, Jae Hoon; Park, Chang-Ho; Chang, In Seop; Lee, Jin Won; Lee, Eun Yeol

2015-03-01

Recently, methane has attracted much attention as an alternative carbon feedstock since it is the major component of abundant shale and natural gas. In this work, we produced methanol from methane using whole cells of Methylosinus trichosporium OB3b as the biocatalyst. M. trichosporium OB3b was cultured on NMS medium with a supply of 7:3 air/methane ratio at 30°C. The optimal concentrations of various methanol dehydrogenase inhibitors such as potassium phosphate and EDTA were determined to be 100 and 0.5 mM, respectively, for an efficient production of methanol. Sodium formate (40 mM) as a reducing power source was added to enhance the conversion efficiency. A productivity of 49.0 mg/l·h, titer of 0.393 g methanol/l, and conversion of 73.8% (mol methanol/mol methane) were obtained under the optimized batch condition.

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

T.F. Trembach; E.N. Lanina

Coke battery 10A with rammed batch is under construction at OAO Alchevskkoks. The design documentation developed by Giprokoks includes measures for reducing dust emissions to the atmosphere. Aspiration systems with dry dust trapping are employed in the new components of coke battery 10A and in the existing coke-sorting equipment. Two-stage purification of dusty air in cyclones and bag filters is employed for the coke-sorting equipment. This system considerably reduces coke-dust emissions to the atmosphere.

Process And Apparatus To Accomplish Autothermal Or Steam Reforming Via A Reciprocating Compression Device

DOEpatents

Lyons, K. David; James, Robert; Berry, David A.; Gardner, Todd

2004-09-21

The invention provides a method and apparatus for producing a synthesis gas from a variety of hydrocarbons. The apparatus (device) consists of a semi-batch, non-constant volume reactor to generate a synthesis gas. While the apparatus feeds mixtures of air, steam, and hydrocarbons into a cylinder where work is performed on the fluid by a piston to adiabatically raise its temperature without heat transfer from an external source.

Assessment of CO2-Induced Geochemical Changes in Soil/Mineral-Water Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeong, H. Y.; Choi, H. J.

2016-12-01

Although the storage of CO2 in deep geological formations is considered the most promising sequestration path, there is still a risk that it may leak into the atmosphere. To ensure the secure operation of CO2 storage sites, thus, it is necessary to implement CO2 leakage monitoring systems. Furthermore, the leakage may alter geochemical properties of overlying geological units to have adverse environmental consequences. By elucidating geochemical changes due to CO2 leakage, it is possible to develop effective CO2 monitoring techniques and predict the influence of CO2 leakage. A series of batch experiments were conducted to simulate CO2-induced geochemical changes in soil/mineral-water systems. Soil samples, obtained from Eumseong basin in Eumseong-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do, were dried for 6 hours at 60° and then divided into two size fractions: < 106 and 106-212 mm. Minerals including mica/illite, vermiculite, and feldspar were purchased and purified if necessary. Prior to batch experiments, soils and minerals were characterized for surface area, mineralogy, elemental composition, carbon and nitrogen contents, pH buffering capacity, and metal extractability. Batch experiments were initiated by reacting 100% CO2 atmosphere with aqueous suspensions of 120 g soils or 50 g minerals in 3,000 mL of 10 mM CsClO4 at room temperature. In parallel, the batches having the same soil/mineral compositions were run under the ambient air as controls. To prevent microbial activities, all batches were sterilized with 0.03% HCHO. To track geochemical changes, pH and electrical conductivity were monitored. Also, while solutions were regularly sampled and analyzed for trace metals as well as main cations and anions, solid phases were sampled to observe changes in mineralogical compositions. Geochemical changes in both solution and solid phases during the initial 6 month reaction will be presented. Acknowledgement: The "R&D Project on Environmental Management of Geologic CO2 Storage" from the KEITI (Project Number: 2014001810003).

Growth rates of Dekkera/Brettanomyces yeasts hinder their ability to compete with Saccharomyces cerevisiae in batch corn mash fermentations.

PubMed

Abbott, D A; Hynes, S H; Ingledew, W M

2005-03-01

Growth rates determined by linear regression analysis revealed that Saccharomyces cerevisiae consistently grew more rapidly than Brettanomyces yeasts under a wide array of batch fermentative conditions, including acetic acid stress, in normal gravity (ca. 20 degrees Plato) mashes made from ground corn. Brettanomyces yeasts only grew more rapidly than S. cerevisiae when acetic acid concentrations were elevated to industrially irrelevant levels (>0.45%, w/v). Furthermore, the three Brettanomyces isolates used in this study failed to produce significant quantities of acetic acid under pure culture fermentative conditions. In fact, the small amounts of acetic acid which accumulated in pure culture fermentations of whole corn mash were below the concentration required to inhibit the growth and metabolism of S. cerevisiae. Acetic acid concentrations in pure culture Brettanomyces fermentations exceeded 0.05% (w/v) only in media containing low levels of glucose (<4%, w/v) or when aeration rates were elevated to at least 0.03 vol. air vol.-1 mash min-1. Consequently, it was concluded that Brettanomyces yeasts would not be capable of competing with S. cerevisiae in industrial batch fermentations of whole corn mash based solely on growth rates, nor would they be capable of producing inhibitory concentrations of acetic acid in such fermentations.

Calibration of BAS-TR image plate response to high energy (3-300 MeV) carbon ions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doria, D.; Kar, S.; Ahmed, H.; Alejo, A.; Fernandez, J.; Cerchez, M.; Gray, R. J.; Hanton, F.; MacLellan, D. A.; McKenna, P.; Najmudin, Z.; Neely, D.; Romagnani, L.; Ruiz, J. A.; Sarri, G.; Scullion, C.; Streeter, M.; Swantusch, M.; Willi, O.; Zepf, M.; Borghesi, M.

2015-12-01

The paper presents the calibration of Fuji BAS-TR image plate (IP) response to high energy carbon ions of different charge states by employing an intense laser-driven ion source, which allowed access to carbon energies up to 270 MeV. The calibration method consists of employing a Thomson parabola spectrometer to separate and spectrally resolve different ion species, and a slotted CR-39 solid state detector overlayed onto an image plate for an absolute calibration of the IP signal. An empirical response function was obtained which can be reasonably extrapolated to higher ion energies. The experimental data also show that the IP response is independent of ion charge states.

Calibration of BAS-TR image plate response to high energy (3-300 MeV) carbon ions.

PubMed

Doria, D; Kar, S; Ahmed, H; Alejo, A; Fernandez, J; Cerchez, M; Gray, R J; Hanton, F; MacLellan, D A; McKenna, P; Najmudin, Z; Neely, D; Romagnani, L; Ruiz, J A; Sarri, G; Scullion, C; Streeter, M; Swantusch, M; Willi, O; Zepf, M; Borghesi, M

2015-12-01

The paper presents the calibration of Fuji BAS-TR image plate (IP) response to high energy carbon ions of different charge states by employing an intense laser-driven ion source, which allowed access to carbon energies up to 270 MeV. The calibration method consists of employing a Thomson parabola spectrometer to separate and spectrally resolve different ion species, and a slotted CR-39 solid state detector overlayed onto an image plate for an absolute calibration of the IP signal. An empirical response function was obtained which can be reasonably extrapolated to higher ion energies. The experimental data also show that the IP response is independent of ion charge states.

Parallel Molecular Distributed Detection With Brownian Motion.

PubMed

Rogers, Uri; Koh, Min-Sung

2016-12-01

This paper explores the in vivo distributed detection of an undesired biological agent's (BAs) biomarkers by a group of biological sized nanomachines in an aqueous medium under drift. The term distributed, indicates that the system information relative to the BAs presence is dispersed across the collection of nanomachines, where each nanomachine possesses limited communication, computation, and movement capabilities. Using Brownian motion with drift, a probabilistic detection and optimal data fusion framework, coined molecular distributed detection, will be introduced that combines theory from both molecular communication and distributed detection. Using the optimal data fusion framework as a guide, simulation indicates that a sub-optimal fusion method exists, allowing for a significant reduction in implementation complexity while retaining BA detection accuracy.

Mastitis Modifies the Biogenic Amines Profile in Human Milk, with Significant Changes in the Presence of Histamine, Putrescine and Spermine

PubMed Central

Perez, Marta; Ladero, Victor; Redruello, Begoña; del Rio, Beatriz; Fernandez, Leonides; Rodriguez, Juan Miguel; Martín, Mª Cruz; Fernandez, María; Alvarez, Miguel A.

2016-01-01

Biogenic amines (BAs) are low molecular weight nitrogenous organic compounds with different biological activities. Putrescine, spermidine and spermine are essential for the development of the gut and immune system of newborns, and are all found in human milk. Little is known, however, about the role of histamine, tyramine or cadaverine in breast milk. Nor is it known whether mastitis alters the BA composition of milk. The BA profile of human milk, and the influence of mastitis on BA concentrations, were therefore investigated. Putrescine, spermidine and spermine were the main BAs detected. In mastitis-affected milk, the concentrations of putrescine, spermine and histamine were higher. PMID:27584695

HYPNOTIZABILITY AND PAIN MODULATION: A Body-Mind Perspective.

PubMed

Varanini, Maurizio; Balocchi, Rita; Carli, Giancarlo; Paoletti, Giulia; Santarcangelo, Enrica L

2018-01-01

The study investigated whether the cardiac activity and cognitive-emotional traits sustained by the behavioral inhibition/activation system (BIS/BAS) may contribute to hypnotizability-related pain modulation. Nociceptive stimulation (cold-pressor test) was administered to healthy participants with high (highs) and low (lows) hypnotizability in the presence and absence of suggestions for analgesia. Results showed that heart rate increased abruptly at the beginning of nociceptive stimulation in all participants. Then, only in highs heart rate decreased for the entire duration of hand immersion. During stimulation with suggestions of analgesia, pain threshold negatively correlated with heart rate. BIS/BAS activity partially accounted for the observed hypnotizability-related differences in the relation between cardiac interoception and pain experience.

Dissolution kinetics of volatile organic compound vapors in water: An integrated experimental and computational study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahmoodlu, Mojtaba G.; Pontedeiro, Elizabeth M.; Pérez Guerrero, Jesús S.; Raoof, Amir; Majid Hassanizadeh, S.; van Genuchten, Martinus Th.

2017-01-01

In this study we performed batch experiments to investigate the dissolution kinetics of trichloroethylene (TCE) and toluene vapors in water at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. The batch systems consisted of a water reservoir and a connected headspace, the latter containing a small glass cylinder filled with pure volatile organic compound (VOC). Results showed that air phase concentrations of both TCE and toluene increased relatively quickly to their maximum values and then became constant. We considered subsequent dissolution into both stirred and unstirred water reservoirs. Results of the stirred experiments showed a quick increase in the VOC concentrations with time up to their solubility limit in water. VOC vapor dissolution was found to be independent of pH. In contrast, salinity had a significant effect on the solubility of TCE and toluene vapors. VOC evaporation and vapor dissolution in the stirred water reservoirs followed first-order rate processes. Observed data could be described well using both simplified analytical solutions, which decoupled the VOC dynamics in the air and water phases, as well as using more complete coupled solutions. However, the estimated evaporation (ke) and dissolution (kd) rate constants differed by up to 70% between the coupled and uncoupled formulations. We also numerically investigated the effects of fluid withdrawal from the small water reservoir due to sampling. While decoupling the VOC air and water phase mass transfer processes produced unreliable estimates of kd, the effects of fluid withdrawal on the estimated rate constants were found to be less important. The unstirred experiments showed a much slower increase in the dissolved VOC concentrations versus time. Molecular diffusion of the VOCs within the aqueous phase became then the limiting factor for mass transfer from air to water. Fluid withdrawal during sampling likely caused some minor convection within the reservoir, which was simulated by increasing the apparent liquid diffusion coefficient.

Energy dependent calibration of XR-QA2 radiochromic film with monochromatic and polychromatic x-ray beams

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

Di Lillo, F.; Mettivier, G., E-mail: mettivier@na.infn.it; Sarno, A.

2016-01-15

Purpose: This work investigates the energy response and dose-response curve determinations for XR-QA2 radiochromic film dosimetry system used for synchrotron radiation work and for quality assurance in diagnostic radiology, in the range of effective energies 18–46.5 keV. Methods: Pieces of XR-QA2 films were irradiated, in a plane transverse to the beam axis, with a monochromatic beam of energy in the range 18–40 keV at the ELETTRA synchrotron radiation facility (Trieste, Italy) and with a polychromatic beam from a laboratory x-ray tube operated at 80, 100, and 120 kV. The film calibration curve was expressed as air kerma (measured free-in-air withmore » an ionization chamber) versus the net optical reflectance change (netΔR) derived from the red channel of the RGB scanned film image. Four functional relationships (rational, linear exponential, power, and logarithm) were tested to evaluate the best curve for fitting the calibration data. The adequacy of the various fitting functions was tested by using the uncertainty analysis and by assessing the average of the absolute air kerma error calculated as the difference between calculated and delivered air kerma. The sensitivity of the film was evaluated as the ratio of the change in net reflectance to the corresponding air kerma. Results: The sensitivity of XR-QA2 films increased in the energy range 18–39 keV, with a maximum variation of about 170%, and decreased in the energy range 38–46.5 keV. The present results confirmed and extended previous findings by this and other groups, as regards the dose response of the radiochromic film XR-QA2 to monochromatic and polychromatic x-ray beams, respectively. Conclusions: The XR-QA2 radiochromic film response showed a strong dependence on beam energy for both monochromatic and polychromatic beams in the range of half value layer values from 0.55 to 6.1 mm Al and corresponding effective energies from 18 to 46.5 keV. In this range, the film response varied by 170%, from a minimum sensitivity of 0.0127 to a maximum sensitivity of 0.0219 at 10 mGy air kerma in air. The more suitable function for air kerma calibration of the XR-QA2 radiochromic film was the power function. A significant batch-to-batch variation, up to 55%, in film response at 120 kV (46.5 keV effective energy) was observed in comparison with published data.« less

Cortical network reorganization guided by sensory input features.

PubMed

Kilgard, Michael P; Pandya, Pritesh K; Engineer, Navzer D; Moucha, Raluca

2002-12-01

Sensory experience alters the functional organization of cortical networks. Previous studies using behavioral training motivated by aversive or rewarding stimuli have demonstrated that cortical plasticity is specific to salient inputs in the sensory environment. Sensory experience associated with electrical activation of the basal forebrain (BasF) generates similar input specific plasticity. By directly engaging plasticity mechanisms and avoiding extensive behavioral training, BasF stimulation makes it possible to efficiently explore how specific sensory features contribute to cortical plasticity. This review summarizes our observations that cortical networks employ a variety of strategies to improve the representation of the sensory environment. Different combinations of receptive-field, temporal, and spectrotemporal plasticity were generated in primary auditory cortex neurons depending on the pitch, modulation rate, and order of sounds paired with BasF stimulation. Simple tones led to map expansion, while modulated tones altered the maximum cortical following rate. Exposure to complex acoustic sequences led to the development of combination-sensitive responses. This remodeling of cortical response characteristics may reflect changes in intrinsic cellular mechanisms, synaptic efficacy, and local neuronal connectivity. The intricate relationship between the pattern of sensory activation and cortical plasticity suggests that network-level rules alter the functional organization of the cortex to generate the most behaviorally useful representation of the sensory environment.

BAS-drive trait modulates dorsomedial striatum activity during reward response-outcome associations.

PubMed

Costumero, Víctor; Barrós-Loscertales, Alfonso; Fuentes, Paola; Rosell-Negre, Patricia; Bustamante, Juan Carlos; Ávila, César

2016-09-01

According to the Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory, behavioral studies have found that individuals with stronger reward sensitivity easily detect cues of reward and establish faster associations between instrumental responses and reward. Neuroimaging studies have shown that processing anticipatory cues of reward is accompanied by stronger ventral striatum activity in individuals with stronger reward sensitivity. Even though establishing response-outcome contingencies has been consistently associated with dorsal striatum, individual differences in this process are poorly understood. Here, we aimed to study the relation between reward sensitivity and brain activity while processing response-reward contingencies. Forty-five participants completed the BIS/BAS questionnaire and performed a gambling task paradigm in which they received monetary rewards or punishments. Overall, our task replicated previous results that have related processing high reward outcomes with activation of striatum and medial frontal areas, whereas processing high punishment outcomes was associated with stronger activity in insula and middle cingulate. As expected, the individual differences in the activity of dorsomedial striatum correlated positively with BAS-Drive. Our results agree with previous studies that have related the dorsomedial striatum with instrumental performance, and suggest that the individual differences in this area may form part of the neural substrate responsible for modulating instrumental conditioning by reward sensitivity.

The human microbiome and bile acid metabolism: dysbiosis, dysmetabolism, disease and intervention.

PubMed

Jones, Mitchell L; Martoni, Christopher J; Ganopolsky, Jorge G; Labbé, Alain; Prakash, Satya

2014-04-01

Recent evidence indicates that the human gut microbiome plays a significant role in health and disease. Dysbiosis, defined as a pathological imbalance in a microbial community, is becoming increasingly appreciated as a 'central environmental factor' that is both associated with complex phenotypes and affected by host genetics, diet and antibiotic use. More recently, a link has been established between the dysmetabolism of bile acids (BAs) in the gut to dysbiosis. BAs, which are transformed by the gut microbiota, have been shown to regulate intestinal homeostasis and are recognized as signaling molecules in a wide range of metabolic processes. This review will examine the connection between BA metabolism as it relates to the gut microbiome and its implication in health and disease. A disrupted gut microbiome, including a reduction of bile salt hydrolase (BSH)-active bacteria, can significantly impair the metabolism of BAs and may result in an inability to maintain glucose homeostasis as well as normal cholesterol breakdown and excretion. To better understand the link between dysbiosis, BA dysmetabolism and chronic degenerative disease, large-scale metagenomic sequencing studies, metatranscriptomics, metaproteomics and metabolomics should continue to catalog functional diversity in the gastrointestinal tract of both healthy and diseased populations. Further, BSH-active probiotics should continue to be explored as treatment options to help restore metabolic levels.

Urinary Elimination of Bile Acid Glucuronides under Severe Cholestatic Situations: Contribution of Hepatic and Renal Glucuronidation Reactions.

PubMed

Perreault, Martin; Wunsch, Ewa; Białek, Andrzej; Trottier, Jocelyn; Verreault, Mélanie; Caron, Patrick; Poirier, Guy G; Milkiewicz, Piotr; Barbier, Olivier

2018-01-01

Biliary obstruction, a severe cholestatic complication, causes accumulation of toxic bile acids (BAs) in liver cells. Glucuronidation, catalyzed by UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) enzymes, detoxifies cholestatic BAs. Using liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry, 11 BA glucuronide (-G) species were quantified in prebiliary and postbiliary stenting serum and urine samples from 17 patients with biliary obstruction. Stenting caused glucuronide- and fluid-specific changes in BA-G levels and BA-G/BA metabolic ratios. In vitro glucuronidation assays with human liver and kidney microsomes revealed that even if renal enzymes generally displayed lower K M values, the two tissues shared similar glucuronidation capacities for BAs. By contrast, major differences between the two tissues were observed when four human BA-conjugating UGTs 1A3, 1A4, 2B4, and 2B7 were analyzed for mRNA and protein levels. Notably, the BA-24G producing UGT1A3 enzyme, abundant in the liver, was not detected in kidney microsomes. In conclusion, the circulating and urinary BA-G profiles are hugely impacted under severe cholestasis. The similar BA-glucuronidating abilities of hepatic and renal extracts suggest that both the liver and kidney may contribute to the urine BA-G pool.

Urinary Elimination of Bile Acid Glucuronides under Severe Cholestatic Situations: Contribution of Hepatic and Renal Glucuronidation Reactions

PubMed Central

Perreault, Martin; Białek, Andrzej; Trottier, Jocelyn; Verreault, Mélanie; Caron, Patrick; Poirier, Guy G.

2018-01-01

Biliary obstruction, a severe cholestatic complication, causes accumulation of toxic bile acids (BAs) in liver cells. Glucuronidation, catalyzed by UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) enzymes, detoxifies cholestatic BAs. Using liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry, 11 BA glucuronide (-G) species were quantified in prebiliary and postbiliary stenting serum and urine samples from 17 patients with biliary obstruction. Stenting caused glucuronide- and fluid-specific changes in BA-G levels and BA-G/BA metabolic ratios. In vitro glucuronidation assays with human liver and kidney microsomes revealed that even if renal enzymes generally displayed lower KM values, the two tissues shared similar glucuronidation capacities for BAs. By contrast, major differences between the two tissues were observed when four human BA-conjugating UGTs 1A3, 1A4, 2B4, and 2B7 were analyzed for mRNA and protein levels. Notably, the BA-24G producing UGT1A3 enzyme, abundant in the liver, was not detected in kidney microsomes. In conclusion, the circulating and urinary BA-G profiles are hugely impacted under severe cholestasis. The similar BA-glucuronidating abilities of hepatic and renal extracts suggest that both the liver and kidney may contribute to the urine BA-G pool. PMID:29850459

Hepatic glucose sensing is required to preserve β cell glucose competence

PubMed Central

Seyer, Pascal; Vallois, David; Poitry-Yamate, Carole; Schütz, Frédéric; Metref, Salima; Tarussio, David; Maechler, Pierre; Staels, Bart; Lanz, Bernard; Grueter, Rolf; Decaris, Julie; Turner, Scott; da Costa, Anabela; Preitner, Frédéric; Minehira, Kaori; Foretz, Marc; Thorens, Bernard

2013-01-01

Liver glucose metabolism plays a central role in glucose homeostasis and may also regulate feeding and energy expenditure. Here we assessed the impact of glucose transporter 2 (Glut2) gene inactivation in adult mouse liver (LG2KO mice). Loss of Glut2 suppressed hepatic glucose uptake but not glucose output. In the fasted state, expression of carbohydrate-responsive element-binding protein (ChREBP) and its glycolytic and lipogenic target genes was abnormally elevated. Feeding, energy expenditure, and insulin sensitivity were identical in LG2KO and control mice. Glucose tolerance was initially normal after Glut2 inactivation, but LG2KO mice exhibited progressive impairment of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion even though β cell mass and insulin content remained normal. Liver transcript profiling revealed a coordinated downregulation of cholesterol biosynthesis genes in LG2KO mice that was associated with reduced hepatic cholesterol in fasted mice and reduced bile acids (BAs) in feces, with a similar trend in plasma. We showed that chronic BAs or farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonist treatment of primary islets increases glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, an effect not seen in islets from Fxr–/– mice. Collectively, our data show that glucose sensing by the liver controls β cell glucose competence and suggest BAs as a potential mechanistic link. PMID:23549084

[Polyelectrolyte microcapsules as systems for delivery of biologically active substances].

PubMed

Borodina, T N; Rumsh, L D; Kunizhev, S M; Sukhorukov, G B; Vorozhtsov, G N; Fel'dman, B M; Markvicheva, E A

2007-01-01

Novel biodegradable microcapsules for delivery of biologically active substances (BAS) were prepared by layer-by-layer (LbL) adsorption of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes, namely sodium alginate (Alg) and poly-L-lysine (PLL). To immobilize these BAS, porous spherical CaCO3 microparticles were used as templates. The templates (cores) were coated with several layers of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes forming shell on a core surface. The core-shell microparticles were converted into hollow microcapsules by a core dissolution after an EDTA treatment. Mild conditions for microcapsule fabrication allow to perform an entrapment of various biomolecules while keeping their bioactivity. Biocompatibility and biodegradable capability of the polyelectrolytes give a possibility to use the microcapsules as the target delivery systems. Chymotrypsin (Chym) entrapped into the microcapsules was used as a model enzyme. The immobilized enzyme was found to keep about 86% of the activity compared to a native Chym. The obtained microcapsules were stable at an acidic medium while they could be easily decomposed by trypsin treatment at an slightly alkaline medium. Chym was shown to be active after being released from the microcapsules decomposed by trypsin treatment. Thus, the microcapsules prepared by the LbL - technique can be used for the development of new type of BAS delivery systems in humans and animals.

High acidity unilamellar zeolite MCM-56 and its pillared and delaminated derivatives.

PubMed

Gil, Barbara; Makowski, Wacław; Marszalek, Bartosz; Roth, Wieslaw J; Kubu, Martin; Čejka, Jiři; Olejniczak, Zbigniew

2014-07-21

The unilamellar form of zeolite MWW, MCM-56, which is obtained by direct hydrothermal synthesis has been studied with regard to acidity and porosity in its original and post-synthesis modified pillared and delaminated forms. The acidity measured by FTIR was found to be only slightly lower than the highly active 3-D MWW forms, MCM-22 and MCM-49. Pivalonitrile adsorption, which is a measure of spatial openness, showed 50% accessibility vs. <30% for MCM-22/49. It highlights the potential of MCM-56 as a layered material with increased access to acid sites because it does not entail laborious post-synthesis modification. Swelling, pillaring and delamination of MCM-56 are facile but result in a reduction in the number of Brønsted acid sites (BAS) while increasing accessibility to pivalonitrile. The delamination procedure involving sonication and acidification of the highly basic mother liquor produces the most visible increase in surface area and access to all BAS. The accompanying doubling of the solid yield and the decrease in absolute number of BAS suggest significant precipitation of dissolved silica generated during swelling and sonication in high pH medium. The viability of separating surfactant covered layers upon sonication with the consequence of exposing hydrophobic hydrocarbon tails to aqueous environment is addressed.

Air-dust-borne associations of phototrophic and hydrocarbon-utilizing microorganisms: promising consortia in volatile hydrocarbon bioremediation.

PubMed

Al-Bader, Dhia; Eliyas, Mohamed; Rayan, Rihab; Radwan, Samir

2012-11-01

Aquatic and terrestrial associations of phototrophic and heterotrophic microorganisms active in hydrocarbon bioremediation have been described earlier. The question arises: do similar consortia also occur in the atmosphere? Dust samples at the height of 15 m were collected from Kuwait City air, and analyzed microbiologically for phototrophic and heterotrophic hydrocarbon-utilizing microorganisms, which were subsequently characterized according to their 16S rRNA gene sequences. The hydrocarbon utilization potential of the heterotrophs alone, and in association with the phototrophic partners, was measured quantitatively. The chlorophyte Gloeotila sp. and the two cyanobacteria Nostoc commune and Leptolyngbya thermalis were found associated with dust, and (for comparison) the cynobacteria Leptolyngbya sp. and Acaryochloris sp. were isolated from coastal water. All phototrophic cultures harbored oil vapor-utilizing bacteria in the magnitude of 10(5) g(-1). Each phototrophic culture had its unique oil-utilizing bacteria; however, the bacterial composition in Leptolyngbya cultures from air and water was similar. The hydrocarbon-utilizing bacteria were affiliated with Acinetobacter sp., Aeromonas caviae, Alcanivorax jadensis, Bacillus asahii, Bacillus pumilus, Marinobacter aquaeolei, Paenibacillus sp., and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. The nonaxenic cultures, when used as inocula in batch cultures, attenuated crude oil in light and dark, and in the presence of antibiotics and absence of nitrogenous compounds. Aqueous and diethyl ether extracts from the phototrophic cultures enhanced the growth of the pertinent oil-utilizing bacteria in batch cultures, with oil vapor as a sole carbon source. It was concluded that the airborne microbial associations may be effective in bioremediating atmospheric hydrocarbon pollutants in situ. Like the aquatic and terrestrial habitats, the atmosphere contains dust-borne associations of phototrophic and heterotrophic hydrocarbon-utilizing bacteria that are active in hydrocarbon attenuation.

Microbiological and physicochemical factors affecting Aspergillus section Flavi incidence in Cavendish banana (Musa cavendishii) chips production in Southern Philippines.

PubMed

Sales, A C; Azanza, P V; Yoshizawa, T

2005-01-01

Microbiological and physicochemical factors affecting the incidence of Aspergillus section Flavi in dried Cavendish banana (Musa cavendishii) chips production in Southern Philippines were examined. The average counts of Aspergillus section Flavi (AFC) in fresh and dried Cavendish bananas from 10 production batches of the Philippine Agro-Industrial Development Cooperative in Davao del Norte, Southern Philippines were 1.2 x 10(2) and 1.6 x 10(2) cfu/g, respectively. Isolates from both samples were identified to be Aspergillus flavus based on spore type and conidial structure of isolates. An increasing trend in the AFC of Cavendish bananas was observed during dried banana chips processing. Variability in the AFC between production batches was attributed to differences in aerobic and fungal populations and physicochemical characteristics of the fruits, peel damage of the raw materials, concentration of AFC in the air and food-contact surfaces of the production area, and temperature and relative humidity (RH) conditions of the environment during production and storage. Physicochemical characteristics of Cavendish bananas from the receipt of raw materials up to the first day of drying were within the reported range of values allowing growth and toxin production by aflatoxigenic fungi. Air-borne AFC varied depending on the section of the production area examined. The close proximity of the waste disposal area from the production operation to the preparation, drying and storage areas suggests that cross-contamination, probably air-borne or insect-borne was a likely occurrence. The hands of workers were also identified as AFC sources. Results of this study highlight the need for the development of strategies to control aflatoxigenic fungi and aflatoxin contamination in Philippine dried Cavendish bananas.

40Ar/39Ar and unspiked 40K-40Ar dating of upper Pleistocene volcanic activity in the Bas-Vivarais (Ardèche, France)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sasco, Romain; Guillou, Hervé; Nomade, Sébastien; Scao, Vincent; Maury, René C.; Kissel, Catherine; Wandres, Camille

2017-07-01

Fifteen basanitic and tephritic flows from Bas-Vivarais, the youngest volcanic field in the French Massif Central together with the Chaîne des Puys, were dated by 40Ar/39Ar and 40K-40Ar on separated groundmass, and studied for paleomagnetism. An almost systematic discrepancy between the two types of ages is observed, the 40K-40Ar method providing ages up to 8.5 times the 40Ar/39Ar ones. Microscopic observations and geochemical analyses lead us to conclude that most of the K-Ar ages measured on Bas-Vivarais samples are in error due to extraneous argon originating from contamination by xenocrysts from disintegrated crustal and mantle xenoliths. However, 40Ar/39Ar experiments do not evidence any excess argon, suggesting two possibilities: 1, the extraneous argon contribution was eliminated during the pre-degassing of the samples at 600 °C prior to the step heating experiments, 2 - K-Ar ages may be older because larger quantities of xenocrysts, potential carriers of extraneous argon were involved in the K-Ar experiments than in the 40Ar/39Ar ones. 40Ar/39Ar ages are thus little or not affected by contamination and provide reliable ages for the studied volcanoes. Combined 40Ar/39Ar datings and magnetic directions for each flow point out to three successive stages in the volcanic evolution of Bas-Vivarais. Stage 1, limited to the northern part of the field, has a mean age of 187.3 ± 19.0 ka. In its southern part, Stages 2 and 3 emplaced magmas at 31.1 ± 3.9 ka and 23.9 ± 8.1 ka, respectively. These two last stages are consistent with available 14C dates but not with previous thermoluminescence data.

Hepatocyte-based in vitro model for assessment of drug-induced cholestasis

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

Chatterjee, Sagnik, E-mail: Sagnik.Chatterjee@pharm.kuleuven.be; Richert, Lysiane, E-mail: l.richert@kaly-cell.com; Augustijns, Patrick, E-mail: Patrick.Augustijns@pharm.kuleuven.be

Early detection of drug-induced cholestasis remains a challenge during drug development. We have developed and validated a biorelevant sandwich-cultured hepatocytes- (SCH) based model that can identify compounds causing cholestasis by altering bile acid disposition. Human and rat SCH were exposed (24–48 h) to known cholestatic and/or hepatotoxic compounds, in the presence or in the absence of a concentrated mixture of bile acids (BAs). Urea assay was used to assess (compromised) hepatocyte functionality at the end of the incubations. The cholestatic potential of the compounds was expressed by calculating a drug-induced cholestasis index (DICI), reflecting the relative residual urea formation bymore » hepatocytes co-incubated with BAs and test compound as compared to hepatocytes treated with test compound alone. Compounds with clinical reports of cholestasis, including cyclosporin A, troglitazone, chlorpromazine, bosentan, ticlopidine, ritonavir, and midecamycin showed enhanced toxicity in the presence of BAs (DICI ≤ 0.8) for at least one of the tested concentrations. In contrast, the in vitro toxicity of compounds causing hepatotoxicity by other mechanisms (including diclofenac, valproic acid, amiodarone and acetaminophen), remained unchanged in the presence of BAs. A safety margin (SM) for drug-induced cholestasis was calculated as the ratio of lowest in vitro concentration for which was DICI ≤ 0.8, to the reported mean peak therapeutic plasma concentration. SM values obtained in human SCH correlated well with reported % incidence of clinical drug-induced cholestasis, while no correlation was observed in rat SCH. This in vitro model enables early identification of drug candidates causing cholestasis by disturbed BA handling. - Highlights: • Novel in vitro assay to detect drug-induced cholestasis • Rat and human sandwich-cultured hepatocytes (SCH) as in vitro models • Cholestatic compounds sensitize SCH to toxic effects of accumulating bile acids • Drug-induced cholestasis index (DICI) as measure of a drug's cholestatic signature • In vitro findings correlate well with clinical reports on cholestasis.« less

Proceedings of the VI Serbian-Bulgarian Astronomical Conference, May 7 - 11 2008, Belgrade, Serbia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dimitrijević, M. S.; Tsvetkov, M.; Popović, L. C.; Golev, V.

2009-07-01

The Sixth Serbian-Bulgarian Astronomical Conference was organized by Belgrade Astronomical Observatory, and held in Belgrade, in the building of Mathematical Faculty in Jagiceva Street, from 75th to 11th May 2008. Co-organizers were Mathematical Faculty, Astronomical Society "Rudjer Boskovic", Institute of Astronomy of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS), Space Research Institute of BAS and Department of Astronomy of the University of Sofia. Co-chairmen of the Scientific Organizing Committee were Milan Dimitrijevic and Milcho Tsvetkov and Co-vice chairmen Luka C. Popovic and Valeri Golev. Chair of the Local Organizing Committee was Andjelka Kovacevic. The conference [was] attended by 58 participants. From Serbia were 36, from Belgrade Astronomical Observatory, Mathematical Faculty, Faculty of Sciences from Nis, Institute of Physics from Zemum, High School for pedagogues of occupational studies from Aleksinac, Faculty of Sciences from Kragujevac, Mathematical Institute of Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Astronomical Society "Rudjer Boskovic" and Astronomical Society "Magellanic Cloud." From Bulgaria were present 17 colleagues: Svetlana Boeva, Ana Borisova, Momchil Dechev, Peter Duchlev, Lostadinka Koleva, Georgi Petrov, Vasil Popov, Konstatin Stavrev, Katya Ysvetkova and Milcho Tsvetkov from Institute of Astronomy of BAS, Rumen Bogdanovski and Krasmimira Ianova from Space Research Institute of BAS, Georgi R. Ivanov, Georgi Petrov and Grigor Nikolov from Department of Astronomy, Sofia University "St Kliment Ohridski,", Yavor Chapanov from Central Laboratory for Geodesy of BAS and Petya Pavlova from Technical University of Sofia, Branch Plovdiv. Besides participants from Serbia and Bulgaria the Conference [was] attended [by] Vlado Milicevic from Canada, Jan Vondrak from Czech Republic, Aytap Sezer from Turkey and Tetyana Sergeeva and Alexandr Sergeev from Ukraine. On the Conference were presented 13 invited lectures, 22 short talks and 35 posters, in total 70 contributions. In these proceedings are 47 papers, 10 invited lectures, 12 contributed papers and 25 poster papers. Within the frame of cultural program in the library of Astronomical Observatory was organized a multimedia evening "Astronomy, Poetry and Art." Moderator was Andjelka Kovacevic. Poetry with cosmical inspiration was presented by Milan S. Dimitrijevic, Milcho Tsvetkov, Natasha Stanic, Tetyana Sergeeva, Jan Vondrak and Katya Tsvetkova with musical accompaniment by Zoran Simic and Edi Bon. Also a video presentation of paintings of Zoran Simic, inspired by the Universe accompanied by him by guitar was performed. An excursion to the excavations of the Roman colony Viminacium was organized for the participants. The Sixth Serbian-Bulgarian Astronomical Conference was fruitful and important for the further development of collaboration, common activities and planning of the joint scientific investigations and projects.

Fused Deposition Modelling as Rapid Prototyping for Structural Material Improvement: Analytical Solution / Ātrās Prototipēšanas Ar Kausēšanas Metodi Strukturālā Uzlabojuma Analītisks Risinājums

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brensons, I.; Polukoshko, S.

2013-10-01

Fused deposition modelling (FDM) is one of the most effective rapid prototyping (RP) techniques due to its low cost, available materials and versatility. In FDM, a part of material (usually plastic) is made by heating this material to the molten state, and from the melt it is extruded through a nozzle and deposited on a surface. In the article, an alternative RP method is considered for improvement of the mechanical properties of a rapid prototype. The authors propose an analytical solution which allows for achievement of this purpose via advanced technologies. The base materials applied in RP technology can be combined with liquid resin which solidifies after a definite time. This makes it possible to create a channel through the prototype and fill it with another material having better mechanical properties. The optimal channel sizes can be chosen in order to raise the strength of material parts. Darbā tiek apskatīts ātrās prototipēšanas veids, kura pamatā ir detaļas veidošana, izmantojot kausētu materiālu parasti plastmasu. Šī detaļu veidošanas metode ir kļuvusi par vienu no visizplatītākajām tās zemo izmaksu, pieejamo materiālu un daudzpusības dēļ. Šī raksta mērķis ir izpētīt alternatīvu veidu, kā uzlabot prototipu mehāniskās īpašības, tādējādi palielinot printētu detaļu izmantošanu kā gala produktu. Raksts piedāvā analītisku risinājumu, kā uzlabot ātro prototipu mehāniskās īpašības, uzlabojot tehnoloģiskos procesus, kas iesaistīti detaļu izgatavošanā. Darba pamatā tiek izmantota 3D printēšanas tehnoloģijas iespēja veidot iekšējus kanālus bez ģeometriskiem ierobežojumiem, kā rezultātā ir iespējams izveidot iekšēju kanālu shēmu, ko pēc tam piepilda ar citu materiālu, kam ir labākas mehāniskās īpašības kā pamata materiālam. Pildīšanai izmantotais materiāls ir epoksīda sveķi, kas pieļauj vieglu iepildīšanu šķidrā fāzē, un sniedz labas mehāniskās īpašības pēc sacietēšanas. Analītiskais risinājums šajā rakstā piedāvā viegli realizējamu variantu kā būtiski uzlabot prototipu mehāniskās īpašības.

Development of polypyrrole based solid-state on-chip microactuators using photolithography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, Yong; Lundemo, Staffan; Jager, Edwin W. H.

2018-07-01

There is a need for soft microactuators, especially for biomedical applications. We have developed a microfabrication process to create such soft, on-chip polymer based microactuators that can operate in air. The on-chip microactuators were fabricated using standard photolithographic techniques and wet etching, combined with special designed process to micropattern the electroactive polymer polypyrrole that drives the microactuators. By immobilizing a UV-patternable gel containing a liquid electrolyte on top of the electroactive polypyrrole layer, actuation in air was achieved although with reduced movement. Further optimization of the processing is currently on-going. The result shows the possibility to batch fabricate complex microsystems such as microrobotics and micromanipulators based on these solid-state on-chip microactuators using microfabrication methods including standard photolithographic processes.

NSWC-NADC interactive communication links for AN/UYS-1 loadtape creation and retrieval

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Greathouse, D. M.

1984-09-01

This report contains an alternative method of communication (interactive vs. remote batch) with the Naval Air Development Center for the creation and retrieval of AN/UYS-1 Advanced Signal Processor (ASP) operational software loadtapes. Operational software for the Digital Acoustic Sensor Simulator (DASS) program is developed and maintained at the Naval Air Development Center (NADC). The Facility for Automated Software Production (FASP), an NADC-resident software generation facility, provides the support tools necessary for data base creation, software development and maintenance, and loadtape generation. Once a loadtape file is generated at NADC, it must be retrieved via telephone transmission and placed in a format suitable for loading into the AN/UYS-1 Advanced Signal Processor (ASP).

Health-related quality of life--from the perspective of mothers and fathers of adult children suffering from long-term mental disorders.

PubMed

Johansson, Anita; Ewertzon, Mats; Andershed, Birgitta; Anderzen-Carlsson, Agneta; Nasic, Salmir; Ahlin, Arne

2015-06-01

There is a lack of studies on mothers' and fathers' experiences of Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) associated with caregiving of adult children suffering from mental disorder. A cross-sectional study was therefore carried out with 108 mothers and 43 fathers. Data were collected by means of the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Family Involvement and Alienation Questionnaire (FIAQ) and the Burden Assessment Scale (BAS). Mothers' HRQOL was affected more than fathers' and lower compared to Swedish age related norms. HRQOL was predominantly related to ratings on HADS and BAS. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Correlation between CdSe QD Synthesis, Post-Synthetic Treatment, and BHJ Hybrid Solar Cell Performance

PubMed Central

Eck, Michael; Krueger, Michael

2016-01-01

In this publication we show that the procedure to synthesize nanocrystals and the post-synthetic nanocrystal ligand sphere treatment have a great influence not only on the immediate performance of hybrid bulk heterojunction solar cells, but also on their thermal, long-term, and air stability. We herein demonstrate this for the particular case of spherical CdSe nanocrystals, post-synthetically treated with a hexanoic acid based treatment. We observe an influence from the duration of this post-synthetic treatment on the nanocrystal ligand sphere size, and also on the solar cell performance. By tuning the post-synthetic treatment to a certain degree, optimal device performance can be achieved. Moreover, we show how to effectively adapt the post-synthetic nanocrystal treatment protocol to different nanocrystal synthesis batches, hence increasing the reproducibility of hybrid nanocrystal:polymer bulk-heterojunction solar cells, which usually suffers due to the fluctuations in nanocrystal quality of different synthesis batches and synthesis procedures. PMID:28335243

A novel cleaner production process of citric acid by recycling its treated wastewater.

PubMed

Xu, Jian; Su, Xian-Feng; Bao, Jia-Wei; Zhang, Hong-Jian; Zeng, Xin; Tang, Lei; Wang, Ke; Zhang, Jian-Hua; Chen, Xu-Sheng; Mao, Zhong-Gui

2016-07-01

In this study, a novel cleaner production process of citric acid was proposed to completely solve the problem of wastewater management in citric acid industry. In the process, wastewater from citric acid fermentation was used to produce methane through anaerobic digestion and then the anaerobic digestion effluent was further treated with air stripping and electrodialysis before recycled as process water for the later citric acid fermentation. This proposed process was performed for 10 batches and the average citric acid production in recycling batches was 142.4±2.1g/L which was comparable to that with tap water (141.6g/L). Anaerobic digestion was also efficient and stable in operation. The average chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal rate was 95.1±1.2% and methane yield approached to 297.7±19.8mL/g TCODremoved. In conclusion, this novel process minimized the wastewater discharge and achieved the cleaner production in citric acid industry. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Robust artificial intelligence tool for automatic start-up of the supplementary medium feeding in recombinant E. coli cultivations.

PubMed

Horta, Antônio Carlos Luperni; da Silva, Adilson José; Sargo, Cíntia Regina; Gonçalves, Viviane Maimoni; Zangirolami, Teresa Cristina; Giordano, Roberto de Campos

2011-09-01

One of the most important events in fed-batch fermentations is the definition of the moment to start the feeding. This paper presents a methodology for a rational selection of the architecture of an artificial intelligence (AI) system, based on a neural network committee (NNC), which identifies the end of the batch phase. The AI system was successfully used during high cell density cultivations of recombinant Escherichia coli. The AI algorithm was validated for different systems, expressing three antigens to be used in human and animal vaccines: fragments of surface proteins of Streptococcus pneumoniae (PspA), clades 1 and 3, and of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae (SpaA). Standard feed-forward neural networks (NNs), with a single hidden layer, were the basis for the NNC. The NN architecture with best performance had the following inputs: stirrer speed, inlet air, and oxygen flow rates, carbon dioxide evolution rate, and CO2 molar fraction in the exhaust gas.

Operational Test Report (OTR): On-Site Degradation of Oily Sludge in a Tenthousand Gallon Sequencing Batch Reactor at Navsta Pearl Harbor, HI

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-11-01

treated anaerobically . To accommodate the longer residence times needed to treat waste anaerobically , the capacity is often much larger than a...the receiving tank (T1), where it is diluted and run through a trash pump (P1) to produce a homogenous slurry. 3 Figure 1. Sequencing...blower provides air to the reactor and receiving tank. The trash pump is also used to transfer sludge to the reactor and to recirculate sludge in

Compliance Testing of the Eglin AFB Asphalt Concrete Batch Plant, Eglin AFB, Florida

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-06-01

the fan, contactor and separator. A schematic of the scrubber showing these components is presented in Figure 4. Particulate-laden air is blown into...the contactor at high speed by the scrubber fan. In the contactor , the gas stream passes through a fine water mist where particulates are wetted and...and wetted particulates are separated from the gas stream by centrifugal action and drain to the bottom of the separator. Water and sludge are drained

Abnormal EEG Power Spectra in Acute Transient Global Amnesia: A Quantitative EEG Study.

PubMed

Imperatori, Claudio; Farina, Benedetto; Todini, Federico; Di Blasi, Chiara; Mazzucchi, Edoardo; Brunetti, Valerio; Della Marca, Giacomo

2018-06-01

Transient global amnesia (TGA) is a clinical syndrome characterized by retrograde and anterograde amnesia without other neurological deficits. Although electroencephalography (EEG) methods are commonly used in both clinical and research setting with TGA patients, few studies have investigated neurophysiological pattern in TGA using quantitative EEG (qEEG). The main aim of the present study was to extend these previous findings by exploring EEG power spectra differences between patients with acute TGA and healthy controls using the exact low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography software (eLORETA). EEG was recorded during 5 minutes of resting state. Sixteen patients (mean age: 66.81 ± 7.94 years) during acute TGA and 16 healthy subjects were enrolled. All patients showed hippocampal or parahippocampal signal abnormalities in diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging performed from 2 to 5 days after the onset of TGA. Compared with healthy controls, TGA patients showed a decrease of theta power localized in the temporal lobe (Brodmann areas, BAs 21-22-38) and frontal lobe (BAs 8-9-44-45). A decrease of EEG beta power in the bilateral precuneus (BA 7) and in the bilateral postcentral gyrus (BAs 3-4-5) was also observed in TGA individuals. Taken together, our results could reflect the neurophysiological substrate of the severe impairment of both episodic memory and autobiographical memory which affect TGA patients during the acute phase.

Implementation of quality by design approach in manufacturing process optimization of dry granulated, immediate release, coated tablets - a case study.

PubMed

Teżyk, Michał; Jakubowska, Emilia; Milanowski, Bartłomiej; Lulek, Janina

2017-10-01

The aim of this study was to optimize the process of tablets compression and identification of film-coating critical process parameters (CPPs) affecting critical quality attributes (CQAs) using quality by design (QbD) approach. Design of experiment (DOE) and regression methods were employed to investigate hardness, disintegration time, and thickness of uncoated tablets depending on slugging and tableting compression force (CPPs). Plackett-Burman experimental design was applied to identify critical coating process parameters among selected ones that is: drying and preheating time, atomization air pressure, spray rate, air volume, inlet air temperature, and drum pressure that may influence the hardness and disintegration time of coated tablets. As a result of the research, design space was established to facilitate an in-depth understanding of existing relationship between CPPs and CQAs of intermediate product (uncoated tablets). Screening revealed that spray rate and inlet air temperature are two most important factors that affect the hardness of coated tablets. Simultaneously, none of the tested coating factors have influence on disintegration time. The observation was confirmed by conducting film coating of pilot size batches.

Four-phonon scattering significantly reduces intrinsic thermal conductivity of solids

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

Feng, Tianli; Lindsay, Lucas R.; Ruan, Xiulin

We rigorously calculate intrinsic phonon thermal resistance from four-phonon scattering processesusing rst principles Boltzmann transport methods. Fundamental questions concerning the role ofhigher order scattering at high temperature and in systems with otherwise weak intrinsic scatteringare answered. Using diamond and silicon as benchmark materials, the predicted thermal conductiv-ity including intrinsic four-phonon resistance gives signicantly better agreement with measurementsat high temperatures than previous rst principles calculations. In the predicted ultrahigh thermalconductivity material, zincblende BAs, four-phonon scattering is strikingly strong when comparedto three-phonon processes, even at room temperature, as the latter have an extremely limited phasespace for scattering. Including four-phonon thermal resistance reducesmore » the predicted thermal con-ductivity of BAs from 2200 W/m-K to 1400 W/m-K.« less

Personality and emotion: test of Gray's personality theory by means of an fMRI study.

PubMed

Reuter, M; Stark, R; Hennig, J; Walter, B; Kirsch, P; Schienle, A; Vaitl, D

2004-06-01

Although it is known that there are fundamental personality differences in the behavioral responses to emotional stimuli, traits have scarcely been investigated in this context by means of functional imaging studies. To maximize the variance with respect to personality, the authors tested 12 control subjects and 12 subjects who had sadomasochistic experiences with respect to the relationship between J. A. Gray's (1970) personality dimensions, the behavioral approach system (BAS) and the behavioral inhibition system (BIS), and brain activity in regions of interest. The BIS was associated with activity in numerous brain areas in response to fear, disgust, and erotic visual stimuli, whereas few associations could he detected between the BAS and brain activity in response to disgust and erotic stimuli. ((c) 2004 APA, all rights reserved)

Four-phonon scattering significantly reduces intrinsic thermal conductivity of solids

DOE PAGES

Feng, Tianli; Lindsay, Lucas R.; Ruan, Xiulin

2017-10-27

We rigorously calculate intrinsic phonon thermal resistance from four-phonon scattering processesusing rst principles Boltzmann transport methods. Fundamental questions concerning the role ofhigher order scattering at high temperature and in systems with otherwise weak intrinsic scatteringare answered. Using diamond and silicon as benchmark materials, the predicted thermal conductiv-ity including intrinsic four-phonon resistance gives signicantly better agreement with measurementsat high temperatures than previous rst principles calculations. In the predicted ultrahigh thermalconductivity material, zincblende BAs, four-phonon scattering is strikingly strong when comparedto three-phonon processes, even at room temperature, as the latter have an extremely limited phasespace for scattering. Including four-phonon thermal resistance reducesmore » the predicted thermal con-ductivity of BAs from 2200 W/m-K to 1400 W/m-K.« less

Stable thermophilic anaerobic digestion of dissolved air flotation (DAF) sludge by co-digestion with swine manure.

PubMed

Creamer, K S; Chen, Y; Williams, C M; Cheng, J J

2010-05-01

Environmentally sound treatment of by-products in a value-adding process is an ongoing challenge in animal agriculture. The sludge produced as a result of the dissolved air flotation (DAF) wastewater treatment process in swine processing facilities is one such low-value residue. The objective of this study was to determine the fundamental performance parameters for thermophilic anaerobic digestion of DAF sludge. Testing in a semi-continuous stirred tank reactor and in batch reactors was conducted to determine the kinetics of degradation and biogas yield. Stable operation could not be achieved using pure DAF sludge as a substrate, possibly due to inhibition by long-chain fatty acids or to nutrient deficiencies. However, in a 1:1 ratio (w/w, dry basis) with swine manure, operation was both stable and productive. In the semi-continuous stirred reactor at 54.5 degrees Celsius, a hydraulic residence time of 10 days, and an organic loading rate of 4.68 gVS/day/L, the methane production rate was 2.19 L/L/day and the specific methane production rate was 0.47 L/gVS (fed). Maximum specific methanogenic activity (SMA) in batch testing was 0.15 mmoles CH(4) h(-1) gVS(-1) at a substrate concentration of 6.9 gVS L(-1). Higher substrate concentrations cause an initial lag in methane production, possibly due to long-chain fatty acid or nitrogen inhibition. Copyright 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Individual differences in drivers' cognitive processing of road safety messages.

PubMed

Kaye, Sherrie-Anne; White, Melanie J; Lewis, Ioni M

2013-01-01

Using Gray and McNaughton's (2000) revised reinforcement sensitivity theory (r-RST), we examined the influence of personality on processing of words presented in gain-framed and loss-framed anti-speeding messages and how the processing biases associated with personality influenced message acceptance. The r-RST predicts that the nervous system regulates personality and that behaviour is dependent upon the activation of the behavioural activation system (BAS), activated by reward cues and the fight-flight-freeze system (FFFS), activated by punishment cues. According to r-RST, individuals differ in the sensitivities of their BAS and FFFS (i.e., weak to strong), which in turn leads to stable patterns of behaviour in the presence of rewards and punishments, respectively. It was hypothesised that individual differences in personality (i.e., strength of the BAS and the FFFS) would influence the degree of both message processing (as measured by reaction time to previously viewed message words) and message acceptance (measured three ways by perceived message effectiveness, behavioural intentions, and attitudes). Specifically, it was anticipated that, individuals with a stronger BAS would process the words presented in the gain-frame messages faster than those with a weaker BAS and individuals with a stronger FFFS would process the words presented in the loss-frame messages faster than those with a weaker FFFS. Further, it was expected that greater processing (faster reaction times) would be associated with greater acceptance for that message. Driver licence holding students (N=108) were recruited to view one of four anti-speeding messages (i.e., social gain-frame, social loss-frame, physical gain-frame, and physical loss-frame). A computerised lexical decision task assessed participants' subsequent reaction times to message words, as an indicator of the extent of processing of the previously viewed message. Self-report measures assessed personality and the three message acceptance measures. As predicted, the degree of initial processing of the content of the social gain-framed message mediated the relationship between the reward sensitive trait and message effectiveness. Initial processing of the physical loss-framed message partially mediated the relationship between the punishment sensitive trait and both message effectiveness and behavioural intention ratings. These results show that reward sensitivity and punishment sensitivity traits influence cognitive processing of gain-framed and loss-framed message content, respectively, and subsequently, message effectiveness and behavioural intention ratings. Specifically, a range of road safety messages (i.e., gain-frame and loss-frame messages) could be designed which align with the processing biases associated with personality and which would target those individuals who are sensitive to rewards and those who are sensitive to punishments. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Airport Traffic Conflict Detection and Resolution Algorithm Evaluation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, Denise R.; Chartrand, Ryan C.; Wilson, Sara R.; Commo, Sean A.; Otero, Sharon D.; Barker, Glover D.

2012-01-01

A conflict detection and resolution (CD&R) concept for the terminal maneuvering area (TMA) was evaluated in a fast-time batch simulation study at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Langley Research Center. The CD&R concept is being designed to enhance surface situation awareness and provide cockpit alerts of potential conflicts during runway, taxi, and low altitude air-to-air operations. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the performance of aircraft-based CD&R algorithms in the TMA, as a function of surveillance accuracy. This paper gives an overview of the CD&R concept, simulation study, and results. The Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) concept for the year 2025 and beyond envisions the movement of large numbers of people and goods in a safe, efficient, and reliable manner [1]. NextGen will remove many of the constraints in the current air transportation system, support a wider range of operations, and provide an overall system capacity up to three times that of current operating levels. Emerging NextGen operational concepts [2], such as four-dimensional trajectory based airborne and surface operations, equivalent visual operations, and super density arrival and departure operations, require a different approach to air traffic management and as a result, a dramatic shift in the tasks, roles, and responsibilities for the flight deck and air traffic control (ATC) to ensure a safe, sustainable air transportation system.

Recovery of Extracellular Lipolytic Enzymes from Macrophomina phaseolina by Foam Fractionation with Air

PubMed Central

Germani, José Carlos

2013-01-01

Macrophomina phaseolina was cultivated in complex and simple media for the production of extracellular lipolytic enzymes. Culture supernatants were batch foam fractionated for the recovery of these enzymes, and column design and operation included the use of P 2 frit (porosity 40 to 100 μm), air as sparging gas at variable flow rates, and Triton X-100 added at the beginning or gradually in aliquots. Samples taken at intervals showed the progress of the kinetic and the efficiency parameters. Best results were obtained with the simple medium supernatant by combining the stepwise addition of small amounts of the surfactant with the variation of the air flow rates along the separation. Inert proteins were foamed out first, and the subsequent foamate was enriched in the enzymes, showing estimated activity recovery (R), enrichment ratio (E), and purification factor (P) of 45%, 34.7, and 2.9, respectively. Lipases were present in the enriched foamate. PMID:23738054

Neural Processing of Calories in Brain Reward Areas Can be Modulated by Reward Sensitivity

PubMed Central

van Rijn, Inge; Griffioen-Roose, Sanne; de Graaf, Cees; Smeets, Paul A. M.

2016-01-01

A food's reward value is dependent on its caloric content. Furthermore, a food's acute reward value also depends on hunger state. The drive to obtain rewards (reward sensitivity), however, differs between individuals. Here, we assessed the association between brain responses to calories in the mouth and trait reward sensitivity in different hunger states. Firstly, we assessed this in data from a functional neuroimaging study (van Rijn et al., 2015), in which participants (n = 30) tasted simple solutions of a non-caloric sweetener with or without a non-sweet carbohydrate (maltodextrin) during hunger and satiety. Secondly, we expanded these analyses to regular drinks by assessing the same relationship in data from a study in which soft drinks sweetened with either sucrose or a non-caloric sweetener were administered during hunger (n = 18) (Griffioen-Roose et al., 2013). First, taste activation by the non-caloric solution/soft drink was subtracted from that by the caloric solution/soft drink to eliminate sweetness effects and retain activation induced by calories. Subsequently, this difference in taste activation was correlated with reward sensitivity as measured with the BAS drive subscale of the Behavioral Activation System (BAS) questionnaire. When participants were hungry and tasted calories from the simple solution, brain activation in the right ventral striatum (caudate), right amygdala and anterior cingulate cortex (bilaterally) correlated negatively with BAS drive scores. In contrast, when participants were satiated, taste responses correlated positively with BAS drive scores in the left caudate. These results were not replicated for soft drinks. Thus, neural responses to oral calories from maltodextrin were modulated by reward sensitivity in reward-related brain areas. This was not the case for sucrose. This may be due to the direct detection of maltodextrin, but not sucrose in the oral cavity. Also, in a familiar beverage, detection of calories per se may be overruled by a conditioned response to its flavor. In conclusion, the brain reward response to calories from a long chain starch sugar (maltodextrin) varies with trait reward sensitivity. The absence of this effect in a familiar beverage warrants further research into its relevance for real life ingestive behavior. PMID:26834598

A cross-sectional study of water arsenic exposure and intellectual function in adolescence in Araihazar, Bangladesh.

PubMed

Wasserman, Gail A; Liu, Xinhua; Parvez, Faruque; Chen, Yu; Factor-Litvak, Pam; LoIacono, Nancy J; Levy, Diane; Shahriar, Hasan; Uddin, Mohammed Nasir; Islam, Tariqul; Lomax, Angela; Saxena, Roheeni; Gibson, Elizabeth A; Kioumourtzoglou, Marianthi-Anna; Balac, Olgica; Sanchez, Tiffany; Kline, Jennie K; Santiago, David; Ellis, Tyler; van Geen, Alexander; Graziano, Joseph H

2018-06-19

Exposure to inorganic arsenic (As) from drinking water is associated with modest deficits in intellectual function in young children; it is unclear whether deficits occur during adolescence, when key brain functions are more fully developed. We sought to determine the degree to which As exposure is associated with adolescent intelligence, and the contributory roles of lead, cadmium, manganese and selenium. We recruited a cross-section of 726 14-16 year olds (mean age = 14.8 years) whose mothers are participants in the Bangladesh Health Effects of Arsenic Longitudinal Study (HEALS), and whose household well water As levels, which varied widely, were well characterized. Using a culturally modified version of the WISC-IV, we examined raw Full Scale scores, and Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Reasoning, Working Memory and Processing Speed Indices. Blood levels of As (BAs), Mn, Pb, Cd and Se were assessed at the time of the visit, as was creatinine-adjusted urinary As (UAs/Cr). Linear regression analyses revealed that BAs was significantly negatively associated with all WISC-IV scores except for Perceptual Reasoning. With UAs/Cr as the exposure variable, we observed significantly negative associations for all WISC-IV scores. Except for Se, blood levels of other metals, were also associated with lower WISC-IV scores. Controlling for covariates, doubling BAs, or UAs/Cr, was associated with a mean decrement (95% CI) of 3.3 (1.1, 5.5), or 3.0 (1.2, 4.5) points, respectively, in raw Full scale scores with a sample mean of 177.6 (SD = 36.8). Confirmatory analyses using Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression, which identifies important mixture members, supported these findings; the primary contributor of the mixture was BAs, followed by BCd. Our data indicate that the adverse consequences of As exposure on neurodevelopment observed in other cross-sectional studies of younger children are also apparent during adolescence. They also implicate Cd as a neurotoxic element that deserves more attention. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The use of BAS-TR imaging plates calibration in determining the resolving power of Fuji BAS-1800II image plate reader

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alnaimi, R.

2018-01-01

The importance of this work lies in assuring the reliability of the results obtained from both imaging plates type BAS-TR and Fuji Image Reader BAS-1800II as they are widely used in calculating essential x-ray sources parameters such as the source size, x-ray flux and brilliance, hence, the calibration presented in this work. For such quantitative analysis, a common practice used by many researchers, where Gold resolution meshes are utilised for such purpose, however not quite successful due to the transmission effect of high energy photons at their edges as well as the pixeling effect while magnifying the scanned image to secure the edge spread function (ESF) data. In contrast, the use of resolution test target (RTT) and wire mesh grid together with a set of test samples i.e. Stanley blades, Ta, Ti and Si wafer of 100, 300, 15, and 490 micron thickness respectively appeared to be efficient in determining IP pixel size and the resolution of the reader. Two different experiments were conducted using two different targets and lasers of very different performance. The first, was a 15 μm VHS video tape composed of Mylar as carrier film with Fe2O3 and CrO2 powder. Nd:YAG laser of long pulse 800 ps, 50 Hz repetition rate and single shot were utilised. Whereas, the second experiment were conducted on a 9μm C wire and a short pulse 500fs Cerberus single shot laser was used. The results obtained from both experiments were pretty much similar. The imaging plate spatial resolution was measured to be: 3.4 ± 0.2 pixels and a pixel size of 41.26 ± 1.4 μm, whereas the smallest resolvable object visible to the reader (1:1 imaging with magnification factor) was of order 140.3 ± 0.3 microns. This appeared to be worse by a factor of three which indicates the importance of the reader's calibration on a regular basis, and at the same time one has to reconsider any related work and calculation based upon the previous nominal values.

Benefits Analysis of Smart Grid Projects. White paper, 2014-2016

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

Marnay, Chris; Liu, Liping; Yu, JianCheng

Smart grids are rolling out internationally, with the United States (U.S.) nearing completion of a significant USD4-plus-billion federal program funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA-2009). The emergence of smart grids is widespread across developed countries. Multiple approaches to analyzing the benefits of smart grids have emerged. The goals of this white paper are to review these approaches and analyze examples of each to highlight their differences, advantages, and disadvantages. This work was conducted under the auspices of a joint U.S.-China research effort, the Climate Change Working Group (CCWG) Implementation Plan, Smart Grid. We present comparative benefits assessmentsmore » (BAs) of smart grid demonstrations in the U.S. and China along with a BA of a pilot project in Europe. In the U.S., we assess projects at two sites: (1) the University of California, Irvine campus (UCI), which consists of two distinct demonstrations: Southern California Edison’s (SCE) Irvine Smart Grid Demonstration Project (ISGD) and the UCI campus itself; and (2) the Navy Yard (TNY) area in Philadelphia, which has been repurposed as a mixed commercial-industrial, and possibly residential, development. In China, we cover several smart-grid aspects of the Sino-Singapore Tianjin Eco-city (TEC) and the Shenzhen Bay Technology and Ecology City (B-TEC). In Europe, we look at a BA of a pilot smart grid project in the Malagrotta area west of Rome, Italy, contributed by the Joint Research Centre (JRC) of the European Commission. The Irvine sub-project BAs use the U.S. Department of Energy (U.S. DOE) Smart Grid Computational Tool (SGCT), which is built on methods developed by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI). The TEC sub-project BAs apply Smart Grid Multi-Criteria Analysis (SG-MCA) developed by the State Grid Corporation of China (SGCC) based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) with fuzzy logic. The B-TEC and TNY sub-project BAs are evaluated using new approaches developed by those project teams. JRC has adopted an approach similar to EPRI’s but tailored to the Malagrotta distribution grid.« less

Biodegradation of the X-ray contrast agent iopromide and the fluoroquinolone antibiotic ofloxacin by the white rot fungus Trametes versicolor in hospital wastewaters and identification of degradation products.

PubMed

Gros, Meritxell; Cruz-Morato, Carles; Marco-Urrea, Ernest; Longrée, Philipp; Singer, Heinz; Sarrà, Montserrat; Hollender, Juliane; Vicent, Teresa; Rodriguez-Mozaz, Sara; Barceló, Damià

2014-09-01

This paper describes the degradation of the X-ray contrast agent iopromide (IOP) and the antibiotic ofloxacin (OFLOX) by the white-rot-fungus Trametes versicolor. Batch studies in synthetic medium revealed that between 60 and 80% of IOP and OFLOX were removed when spiked at approximately 12 mg L(-1) and 10 mg L(-1), respectively. A significant number of transformation products (TPs) were identified for both pharmaceuticals, confirming their degradation. IOP TPs were attributed to two principal reactions: (i) sequential deiodination of the aromatic ring and (ii) N-dealkylation of the amide at the hydroxylated side chain of the molecule. On the other hand, OFLOX transformation products were attributed mainly to the oxidation, hydroxylation and cleavage of the piperazine ring. Experiments in 10 L-bioreactor with fungal biomass fluidized by air pulses operated in batch achieved high percentage of degradation of IOP and OFLOX when load with sterile (87% IOP, 98.5% OFLOX) and unsterile (65.4% IOP, 99% OFLOX) hospital wastewater (HWW) at their real concentration (μg L(-1) level). Some of the most relevant IOP and OFLOX TPs identified in synthetic medium were also detected in bioreactor samples. Acute toxicity tests indicated a reduction of the toxicity in the final culture broth from both experiments in synthetic medium and in batch bioreactor. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Development of an AFIT (Air Force Institute of Technology) ADP System Network Model.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-12-01

printers. Lastly, after a batch event finishes ’printing’, the turnaround time for each computer and loca- tion may be collected. Resource Module. The...9)), + (IJOBSA(10)) ,(IORG,A( 12)) ,(,AEi4A( 13)) C CNNNN IF JOB JUST FINISHED CPU OR PRINTER IN WAIT MODE THEN SCHEDULE C**** THINK TINE C IF...Modules: CPUAIJ I C Scheduled by. none C C FUNCTION XIOSEC(ICLASSISIZE) P RAMETER (1AXCLS=6,WAXSIZ-6) C -’. CMII COPtION BLOCKS COtON /FACTOR/ DI STRB

Ultrathin metallized PBI paper

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chenevey, E. C.

1978-01-01

A study to determine the feasibility of preparing ultrathin papers with a target weight of 3.5 g/m squared from polybenzimidazole (PBI) fibrids was undertaken. Small hand sheets of target weight were fabricated. They were light brown, low density materials with sufficient strength to be readily handleable. Characterization of these sheets included strength, fold endurance, thermal gravimetric analysis in air and nitrogen and photomicrographs. Two different batches of PBI fibrids were studied and differences in fabrication performance were noted. In neither case could target weight papers be prepared using conventional paper making techniques.

6. Detail view of south elevation of Chapel with English ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

6. Detail view of south elevation of Chapel with English dedication inscription and allegorical bas relief "History." - Flanders Field American Cemetery & Memorial, Chapel, Wortegemseweg 117, Waregem, West Flanders (Belgium), BEL

47 CFR 27.1133 - Protection of Part 74 and Part 78 operations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

.... AWS operators must protect previously licensed Broadcast Auxiliary Service (BAS) or Cable Television Radio Service (CARS) operations in the adjacent 2025-2110 MHz band. In satisfying this requirement AWS...

47 CFR 27.1133 - Protection of Part 74 and Part 78 operations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

.... AWS operators must protect previously licensed Broadcast Auxiliary Service (BAS) or Cable Television Radio Service (CARS) operations in the adjacent 2025-2110 MHz band. In satisfying this requirement AWS...

Experimentally Determined Phase Diagram for the Barium Sulfide-Copper(I) Sulfide System Above 873 K (600 °C)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stinn, Caspar; Nose, Katsuhiro; Okabe, Toru; Allanore, Antoine

2017-12-01

The phase diagram of the barium sulfide-copper(I) sulfide system was investigated above 873 K (600 °C) using a custom-built differential thermal analysis (DTA) apparatus. The melting point of barium sulfide was determined utilizing a floating zone furnace. Four new compounds, Ba2Cu14S9, Ba2Cu2S3, Ba5Cu4S7, and Ba9Cu2S10, were identified through quench experiments analyzed with wavelength dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (WDS) and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDS). A miscibility gap was observed between 72 and 92 mol pct BaS using both DTA experiments and in situ melts observation in a floating zone furnace. A monotectic was observed at 94.5 mol pct BaS and 1288 K (1015 °C).

Secondary Craters in Bas Relief

NASA Image and Video Library

2017-04-17

NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) captured this region of Mars, sprayed with secondary craters from 10-kilometer Zunil Crater to the northwest. Secondary craters form from rocks ejected at high speed from the primary crater, which then impact the ground at sufficiently high speed to make huge numbers of much smaller craters over a large region. In this scene, however, the secondary crater ejecta has an unusual raised-relief appearance like bas-relief sculpture. How did that happen? One idea is that the region was covered with a layer of fine-grained materials like dust or pyroclastics about 1 to 2 meters thick when the Zunil impact occurred (about a million years ago), and the ejecta served to harden or otherwise protect the fine-grained layer from later erosion by the wind. https://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA21591

Chromatin boundaries in budding yeast: the nuclear pore connection.

PubMed

Ishii, Kojiro; Arib, Ghislaine; Lin, Clayton; Van Houwe, Griet; Laemmli, Ulrich K

2002-05-31

Chromatin boundary activities (BAs) were identified in Saccharomyces cerevisiae by genetic screening. Such BAs bound to sites flanking a reporter gene establish a nonsilenced domain within the silent mating-type locus HML. Interestingly, various proteins involved in nuclear-cytoplasmic traffic, such as exportins Cse1p, Mex67p, and Los1p, exhibit a robust BA. Genetic studies, immunolocalization, live imaging, and chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments show that these transport proteins block spreading of heterochromatin by physical tethering of the HML locus to the Nup2p receptor of the nuclear pore complex. Genetic deletion of NUP2 abolishes the BA of all transport proteins, while direct targeting of Nup2p to the bracketing DNA elements restores activity. The data demonstrate that physical tethering of genomic loci to the NPC can dramatically alter their epigenetic activity.

Experimental Design for a Macrofoam Swab Study Relating the Recovery Efficiency and False Negative Rate to Low Concentrations of Two Bacillus anthracis Surrogates on Four Surface Materials

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

Piepel, Gregory F.; Hutchison, Janine R.

2014-04-16

This report describes the experimental design for a laboratory study to quantify the recovery efficiencies and false negative rates of a validated, macrofoam swab sampling method for low concentrations of Bacillus anthracis Sterne (BAS) and Bacillus atrophaeus (BG) spores on four surface materials (stainless steel, glass, vinyl tile, plastic light cover panel). Two analytical methods (plating/counting and polymerase chain reaction) will be used. Only one previous study has investigated false negative as a function of affecting test factors. The surrogates BAS and BG have not been tested together in the same study previously. Hence, this study will provide for completingmore » gaps in the available information on the performance of macrofoam swab sampling at low concentrations.« less

Experimental Design for a Macrofoam-Swab Study Relating the Recovery Efficiency and False Negative Rate to Low Concentrations of Two Bacillus anthracis Surrogates on Four Surface Materials

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

Piepel, Gregory F.; Hutchison, Janine R.

This report describes the experimental design for a laboratory study to quantify the recovery efficiencies and false negative rates of a validated, macrofoam-swab sampling method for low concentrations of Bacillus anthracis Sterne (BAS) and Bacillus atrophaeus (BG) spores on four surface materials (stainless steel, glass, vinyl tile, plastic light cover panel). Two analytical methods (culture and polymerase chain reaction) will be used. Only one previous study has investigated how the false negative rate depends on test factors. The surrogates BAS and BG have not been tested together in the same study previously. Hence, this study will provide for completing gapsmore » in the available information on the performance of macrofoam-swab sampling at low concentrations.« less

Occurrence of biogenic amines in beers produced with malted organic Emmer wheat (Triticum dicoccum).

PubMed

Mozzon, Massimo; Boselli, Emanuele; Obiedziński, Mieczysław W; Frega, Natale G

2015-01-01

Because several groups of microorganisms are able to decarboxylate amino acids, the presence of biogenic amines (BA) can be seen as an index of the microbiological quality of the brewing process. BAs were quantified for the first time in the intermediate products and craft beers produced with malted organic Emmer wheat (Triticum dicoccum) in a small size brewery in order to assess the possible presence of critical control points related to biological hazard in the brewing process. BA levels in beers produced exclusively from malted organic Emmer wheat were between 15.4 and 25.2 mg l(-1) in the samples of light beer (Lt) and between 8.9 and 15.3 mg l(-1) in double malt beers (DM) ready for consumption (the beers stored for 90 days at 1-2°C). Cadaverine and tyramine were the main BAs in the Lt and DM beers, respectively. Increased concentrations of BAs seemed to be more related to the heat treatment of the processing product during mashing and wort boiling, rather than to the fermentation process. Much lower concentrations were found in finished beers obtained from 50% malted organic Emmer wheat and 50% malted barley (up to 3.2 mg l(-1)) or from 30% malted Emmer wheat (up to 8.3 mg l(-1)). Thus, Emmer wheat malt can be a useful alternative to wheat and spelt for the production of beer with a limited content of BA, if the processing technology is kept under control.

A support vector machine approach to the automatic identification of fluorescence spectra emitted by biological agents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gelfusa, M.; Murari, A.; Lungaroni, M.; Malizia, A.; Parracino, S.; Peluso, E.; Cenciarelli, O.; Carestia, M.; Pizzoferrato, R.; Vega, J.; Gaudio, P.

2016-10-01

Two of the major new concerns of modern societies are biosecurity and biosafety. Several biological agents (BAs) such as toxins, bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites are able to cause damage to living systems either humans, animals or plants. Optical techniques, in particular LIght Detection And Ranging (LIDAR), based on the transmission of laser pulses and analysis of the return signals, can be successfully applied to monitoring the release of biological agents into the atmosphere. It is well known that most of biological agents tend to emit specific fluorescence spectra, which in principle allow their detection and identification, if excited by light of the appropriate wavelength. For these reasons, the detection of the UVLight Induced Fluorescence (UV-LIF) emitted by BAs is particularly promising. On the other hand, the stand-off detection of BAs poses a series of challenging issues; one of the most severe is the automatic discrimination between various agents which emit very similar fluorescence spectra. In this paper, a new data analysis method, based on a combination of advanced filtering techniques and Support Vector Machines, is described. The proposed approach covers all the aspects of the data analysis process, from filtering and denoising to automatic recognition of the agents. A systematic series of numerical tests has been performed to assess the potential and limits of the proposed methodology. The first investigations of experimental data have already given very encouraging results.

Skyrme random-phase-approximation description of lowest Kπ=2γ+ states in axially deformed nuclei

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nesterenko, V. O.; Kartavenko, V. G.; Kleinig, W.; Kvasil, J.; Repko, A.; Jolos, R. V.; Reinhard, P.-G.

2016-03-01

The lowest quadrupole γ -vibrational Kπ=2+ states in axially deformed rare-earth (Nd, Sm, Gd, Dy, Er, Yb, Hf, W) and actinide (U) nuclei are systematically investigated within the separable random-phase-approximation (SRPA) based on the Skyrme functional. The energies Eγ and reduced transition probabilities B (E 2 ) of 2γ+ states are calculated with the Skyrme forces SV-bas and SkM*. The energies of two-quasiparticle configurations forming the SRPA basis are corrected by using the pairing blocking effect. This results in a systematic downshift of Eγ by 0.3-0.5 MeV and thus in a better agreement with the experiment, especially in Sm, Gd, Dy, Hf, and W regions. For other isotopic chains, a noticeable overestimation of Eγ and too weak collectivity of 2γ+ states still persist. It is shown that domains of nuclei with low and high 2γ+ collectivity are related to the structure of the lowest two-quasiparticle states and conservation of the Nilsson selection rules. The description of 2γ+ states with SV-bas and SkM* is similar in light rare-earth nuclei but deviates in heavier nuclei. However SV-bas much better reproduces the quadrupole deformation and energy of the isoscalar giant quadrupole resonance. The accuracy of SRPA is justified by comparison with exact RPA. The calculations suggest that a further development of the self-consistent calculation schemes is needed for a systematic satisfactory description of the 2γ+ states.

Evidence of environmental strains on charge injection in silole-based organic light-emitting diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huby, N.; Hirsch, L.; Aubouy, L.; Gerbier, P.; van der Lee, A.; Amy, F.; Kahn, A.

2007-03-01

Using density functional theory (DFT) computations, we have demonstrated a substantial skeletal relaxation when the structure of 2,5-[bis-(4-anthracene-9-yl-phenyl]-1,1-dimethyl-3,4-diphenyl-silole (BAS) is optimized in the gas-phase comparing with the molecular structure determined from monocrystal x-ray diffraction. The origin of such a relaxation is explained by a strong environmental strains induced by the presence of anthracene entities. Moreover, the estimation of the frontier orbital levels showed that this structural relaxation affects mainly the LUMO that is lowered of 190meV in the gas phase. To check if these theoretical findings would be confirmed for thin films of BAS, we turned to ultraviolet photoemission spectroscopy and/or inverse photoemission spectroscopy and electro-optical measurements. Interestingly, the study of the current density or voltage and luminance or voltage characteristics of an ITO/PEDOT/BAS/Au device clearly demonstrated a very unusual temperature-dependent behavior. Using a thermally assisted tunnel transfer model, we found that this behavior likely originated from the variation of the electronic affinity of the silole derivative with the temperature. The thermal agitation relaxes the molecular strains in thin films as it is shown when passing from the crystalline to the gas phase. The relaxation of the intramolecular thus induces an increase of the electronic affinity and, as a consequence, the more efficient electron injection in organic light-emitting diodes.

A Short Measure of the Revised Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory - RSQ17.

PubMed

Čolović, Petar; Smederevac, Snežana; Oljača, Milan; Nikolašević, Željka; Mitrović, Dušanka

2018-04-03

The need for a research and practical tool, such as a short, reliable, and valid personality assessment test, suggests researchers to create shortened versions of original instruments. Reinforcement sensitivity questionnaire (RSQ) was created in line with some basic premises of revised Reinforcement sensitivity theory, which proposes three motivational and emotional systems: Behavioral inhibition system (BIS), responsible for scanning environment for potential threats, Behavioral activation system (BAS), responsible for aproaching behavior, and the Fight/Flight/Freeze system (FFFS), responsible for behavior in the present threat. RSQ comprises five scales: BIS, BAS, Fight, Flight, and Freeze. The aim of this study was to develop a short version of RSQ, which would be beneficial to both research and practical purposes. Item response theory analyses were used for item selection. The study comprised two samples of participants, whereby Sample 1 (N = 837, 34.6% male, aged 18 - 82, M = 31.63, SD = 13.54) served as the derivation sample, while Sample 2 (818 participants, 43.6% male, 18-75 years, M = 29.65, SD = 12.52) served as validation sample. Factorial validity of the short RSQ was examined on both Sample 1 and Sample 2. Convergent and divergent validity of the short RSQ was examined using RST-PQ, Jackson-5, BIS/BAS scales, and Big Five Inventory. The results point to satisfactory internal consistency, factorial validity, and construct validity of the short RSQ, suggesting that it is an adequate measure for research settings or other contexts which require the use of short personality questionnaires.

Vapor-Phase Hydrodeoxygenation of Guaiacol to Aromatics over Pt/HBeta: Identification of the Role of Acid Sites and Metal Sites on the Reaction Pathway

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

Nie, Lei; Peng, Bo; Zhu, Xinli

Hydrodeoxygenation of guaiacol, a phenolic compound derived from lignin fraction of biomass, over a Pt/HBeta catalyst at 350 °C and atmospheric pressure produces benzene, toluene, xylenes, and C9+ aromatics with yield of 42%, 29%, 12%, and 5%, respectively. Reaction pathways for conversion of two functional groups (hydroxyl and methoxyl) over the bifunctional catalyst were studied. Both guaiacol and intermediate products (catechol and cyclopentanone) were fed onto zeolite HBeta and Pt/SiO2 to identify the individual role of acid site and metal site. Acid sites (mainly Brønsted acid site, BAS) catalyze transalkylation and dehydroxylation reactions in sequence, producing phenol, cresols and xylenolsmore » as the major products at high conversion. Pt sites catalyze demethylation reaction resulting in catechol as the primary product, which can either be deoxygenated to phenol followed by phenol to benzene, or decarbonylated to cyclopentanone and further to butane. The close proximity of Pt and BAS in bifunctional Pt/HBeta enables both transalkylation and deoxygenation reactions with inhibited demethylation and decarbonylation reactions, producing aromatics as major final products with a total yield > 85%. Both activity and stability of bifunctional Pt/HBeta during hydrodeoxygenation of guaiacol is improved compared to HBeta and Pt/SiO2. The addition of water to the feed further improves the activity and stability via hydrolysis of O-CH3 bond of guaiacol on BAS and removing coke around Pt.« less

Metformin impacts cecal bile acid profiles in mice.

PubMed

Sillner, Nina; Walker, Alesia; Koch, Wendelin; Witting, Michael; Schmitt-Kopplin, Philippe

2018-04-15

Bile acids (BAs) are major components of bile synthesized from cholesterol and take part in the digestion of dietary lipids, as well as having signaling functions. They undergo extensive microbial metabolism inside the gastrointestinal tract. Here, we present a method of ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography coupled to ion trap mass spectrometry for quantification of 45 BAs in mouse cecum. The system was validated in regard to sensitivity with limits of detection and quantification (0.6-24.9 nM), interday accuracy (102.4%), interday precision (15.2%), recovery rate (74.7%), matrix effect (98.2%) and carry-over effect (<1.1%). Afterwards, we applied our method to investigate the effect of metformin on BA profiles. Diabetic mice were treated with metformin for 1 day or 14 days. One day of treatment resulted in a significant increase of total BA concentration (2.7-fold increase; db/db metformin 5.32 μmol/g, db/db control mice 1.95 μmol/g), most notable in levels of 7-oxodeoxycholic, 3-dehydrocholic and cholic acid. We observed only minor impact on BA metabolism after 14 days of metformin treatment, compared to the single treatment. Furthermore, healthy wild type mice had elevated concentrations of allocholic and ω-muricholic acid compared to diabetic mice. Our method proved the applicability of profiling BAs in cecum to investigate intestinal BA metabolism in diabetes and pharmacological applications. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Validation of a motivation-based typology of angry aggression among antisocial youths in Norway.

PubMed

Bjørnebekk, Gunnar; Howard, Rick

2012-01-01

This article describes the validation of the Angry Aggression Scales (AAS), the Behavior Inhibition System and the Behavior Activation System (BIS/BAS) scales, the reactive aggression and proactive power scales in relation to a Norwegian sample of 101 antisocial youths with conduct problems (64 boys, 37 girls, mean age 15 ± 1.3 years) and 101 prosocial controls matched on age, gender, education, ethnicity, and school district. Maximum likelihood exploratory factor analyses with oblique rotation were performed on AAS, BIS/BAS, reactive aggression and proactive power scales as well as computation of Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega. Tests for normality and homogeneity of variance were acceptable. Factor analyses of AAS and the proactive/reactive aggression scales suggested a hierarchical structure comprising a single higher-order angry aggression (AA) factor and four and two lower-order factors, respectively. Moreover, results suggested one BIS factor and a single higher-order BAS factor with three lower-order factors related to drive, fun-seeking and reward responsiveness. To compare scores of antisocial youths with controls, t-tests on the mean scale scores were computed. Results confirmed that antisocial youths were different from controls on the above-mentioned scales. Consistent with the idea that anger is associated with approach motivation, AAS scores correlated with behavioral activation, but only explosive/reactive and vengeful/ruminative AA correlated with behavioral inhibition. Results generally validated the quadruple typology of aggression and violence proposed by Howard (2009). Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Translocation of Magnaporthe oryzae effectors into rice cells and their subsequent cell-to-cell movement.

PubMed

Khang, Chang Hyun; Berruyer, Romain; Giraldo, Martha C; Kankanala, Prasanna; Park, Sook-Young; Czymmek, Kirk; Kang, Seogchan; Valent, Barbara

2010-04-01

Knowledge remains limited about how fungal pathogens that colonize living plant cells translocate effector proteins inside host cells to regulate cellular processes and neutralize defense responses. To cause the globally important rice blast disease, specialized invasive hyphae (IH) invade successive living rice (Oryza sativa) cells while enclosed in host-derived extrainvasive hyphal membrane. Using live-cell imaging, we identified a highly localized structure, the biotrophic interfacial complex (BIC), which accumulates fluorescently labeled effectors secreted by IH. In each newly entered rice cell, effectors were first secreted into BICs at the tips of the initially filamentous hyphae in the cell. These tip BICs were left behind beside the first-differentiated bulbous IH cells as the fungus continued to colonize the host cell. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching experiments showed that the effector protein PWL2 (for prevents pathogenicity toward weeping lovegrass [Eragrostis curvula]) continued to accumulate in BICs after IH were growing elsewhere. PWL2 and BAS1 (for biotrophy-associated secreted protein 1), BIC-localized secreted proteins, were translocated into the rice cytoplasm. By contrast, BAS4, which uniformly outlines the IH, was not translocated into the host cytoplasm. Fluorescent PWL2 and BAS1 proteins that reached the rice cytoplasm moved into uninvaded neighbors, presumably preparing host cells before invasion. We report robust assays for elucidating the molecular mechanisms that underpin effector secretion into BICs, translocation to the rice cytoplasm, and cell-to-cell movement in rice.

Production of D-lactic acid in a continuous membrane integrated fermentation reactor by genetically modified Saccharomyces cerevisiae: enhancement in D-lactic acid carbon yield.

PubMed

Mimitsuka, Takashi; Sawai, Kenji; Kobayashi, Koji; Tsukada, Takeshi; Takeuchi, Norihiro; Yamada, Katsushige; Ogino, Hiroyasu; Yonehara, Tetsu

2015-01-01

Poly d-lactic acid is an important polymer because it improves the thermostability of poly l-lactic acid by stereo complex formation. To demonstrate potency of continuous fermentation using a membrane-integrated fermentation reactor (MFR) system, continuous fermentation using genetically modified Saccharomyces cerevisiae which produces d-lactic acid was performed at the low pH and microaerobic conditions. d-Lactic acid continuous fermentation using the MFR system by genetically modified yeast increased production rate by 11-fold compared with batch fermentation. In addition, the carbon yield of d-lactic acid in continuous fermentation was improved to 74.6 ± 2.3% compared to 39.0 ± 1.7% with batch fermentation. This dramatic improvement in carbon yield could not be explained by a reduction in carbon consumption to form cells compared to batch fermentation. Further detailed analysis at batch fermentation revealed that the carbon yield increased to 76.8% at late stationary phase. S. cerevisiae, which exhibits the Crabtree-positive effect, demonstrated significant changes in metabolic activities at low sugar concentrations (Rossignol et al., Yeast, 20, 1369-1385, 2003). Moreover, lactate-producing S. cerevisiae requires ATP supplied not only from the glycolytic pathway but also from the TCA cycle (van Maris et al., Appl. Environ. Microbiol., 70, 2898-2905, 2004). Our finding was revealed that continuous fermentation, which can maintain the conditions of both a low sugar concentration and air supply, results in Crabtree-positive and lactate-producing S. cerevisiae for suitable conditions of d-lactic acid production with respect to redox balance and ATP generation because of releasing the yeast from the Crabtree effect. Copyright © 2014 The Society for Biotechnology, Japan. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Composting on Mars or the Moon: II. Temperature feedback control with top-wise introduction of waste material and air

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Finstein, M. S.; Hogan, J. A.; Sager, J. C.; Cowan, R. M.; Strom, P. F.; Janes, H. W. (Principal Investigator)

1999-01-01

Whereas Earth-based composting reactors that effectively control the process are batch operations with bottom-to-top airflow, in extraterrestrial application both the fresh waste and the air need to be introduced from above. Stabilized compost and used air would exit below. This materials flow pattern permits the addition of waste whenever generated, obviating the need for multiple reactors, and the incorporation of a commode in the lid. Top loading in turn dictates top-down aeration, so that the most actively decomposing material (greatest need for heat removal and O2 replenishment) is first encountered. This novel material and aeration pattern was tested in conjunction with temperature feedback process control. Reactor characteristics were: working, volume, 0.15 m3; charge, 2 kg dry biomass per day (comparable to a 3-4 person self-sufficient bioregenerative habitat); retention time, 7 days. Judging from temperature profile, O2 level, air usage, pressure head loss, moisture, and odor, the system was effectively controlled over a 35-day period. Dry matter disappearance averaged 25% (10-42%). The compost product was substantially, though not completely, stabilized. This demonstrates the compatibility of top-wise introduction of waste and air with temperature feedback process control.

Composting on Mars or the Moon: II. Temperature feedback control with top-wise introduction of waste material and air.

PubMed

Finstein, M S; Hogan, J A; Sager, J C; Cowan, R M; Strom, P F

1999-01-01

Whereas Earth-based composting reactors that effectively control the process are batch operations with bottom-to-top airflow, in extraterrestrial application both the fresh waste and the air need to be introduced from above. Stabilized compost and used air would exit below. This materials flow pattern permits the addition of waste whenever generated, obviating the need for multiple reactors, and the incorporation of a commode in the lid. Top loading in turn dictates top-down aeration, so that the most actively decomposing material (greatest need for heat removal and O2 replenishment) is first encountered. This novel material and aeration pattern was tested in conjunction with temperature feedback process control. Reactor characteristics were: working, volume, 0.15 m3; charge, 2 kg dry biomass per day (comparable to a 3-4 person self-sufficient bioregenerative habitat); retention time, 7 days. Judging from temperature profile, O2 level, air usage, pressure head loss, moisture, and odor, the system was effectively controlled over a 35-day period. Dry matter disappearance averaged 25% (10-42%). The compost product was substantially, though not completely, stabilized. This demonstrates the compatibility of top-wise introduction of waste and air with temperature feedback process control.