Molecular Layer Deposition of Hybrid Organic-Inorganic Alucone Polymer Films Using a Three-Step ABC Reaction Sequence

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-11-02

versus TMA exposure at 150 C is shown in Figure 4a. The TMA exposure is defined by the number of TMA microdoses . EachTMAmicrodosewas a 0.5 s exposure...at 80mTorr of partial pressure. Figure 4a indicates that the TMA reac- tion is self-limiting and reaches completion after 10 TMA microdoses . The...of EA microdoses . Each EA microdose was a 0.5 s exposure at 20 mTorr of partial pressure. Figure 4b indicates that the EA reaction is self-limiting

Experimental study of a hybrid electro-acoustic nonlinear membrane absorber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bryk, P. Y.; Bellizzi, S.; Côte, R.

2018-06-01

A hybrid electro-acoustic nonlinear membrane absorber working as a nonlinear energy sink (here after named EA-NES) is described. The device is composed of a thin circular visco-elastic membrane working as an essentially cubic oscillator. One face of the membrane is coupled to the acoustic field to be reduced and the other face is enclosed. The enclosure includes a loudspeaker for the control of the acoustic pressure felt by the rear face of the membrane through proportional feedback control. An experimental set-up has been developed where the EA-NES is weakly coupled to a linear acoustic system. The linear acoustic system is an open-ended tube, coupled on one side to the EA-NES by a box, and on the other side to a source loudspeaker by another box. Only sinusoidal forcing is considered. It is shown that the EA-NES is able to perform resonance capture with the acoustic field, resulting in noise reduction by targeted energy transfer, and to operate in a large frequency band, tuning itself passively to any linear system. We demonstrate the ability of the feedback gain defining the active loop to modify the resonance frequency of the EA-NES, which is a key factor to tune the triggering threshold of energy pumping. The novelty of this work is to use active control combined to passive nonlinear transfer energy to improve it. In this paper, only experimental results are analyzed.

The Effect of Anthropomorphic Test Device Lower Leg Surrogate Selection on Impact Mitigating System Evaluation in Low- and High-Rate Loading Conditions.

PubMed

Quenneville, Cheryl E; Fournier, Ed; Shewchenko, Nicholas

2017-09-01

The lower legs are at risk of substantial injury during events such as frontal automotive crashes and antivehicular mine blasts. Loading to occupants can be assessed using an instrumented anthropomorphic test device (ATD), whose measurements can be compared to established injury criteria. NATO's AEP-55 STANAG 4569 recognizes two surrogates for lower leg injury assessments from impacts with intruding floor pans resulting from underbelly blast loads; (1) the rigid Hybrid III instrumented lower leg, and; (2) the compliant MILitary Lower eXtremity (MIL-LX). The established injury criterion for the Hybrid III leg specifies a maximum lower tibia compressive load of 5.4 kN, whereas the MIL-LX limit is 2.6 kN measured at the upper tibia for similar injury severity levels. The difference in compliance between the two legs could affect the evaluation of protection levels, resulting in an over- or under-estimation of the force attenuation of energy attenuating (EA) floor mats. The responses of the two lower leg surrogates were evaluated at impact velocities up to 12 m/s, representing floor intrusions during antivehicle mine blasts. An air cannon was used to accelerate a rigid or padded floor plate into the sole of the surrogate lower legs, loading them axially, in order to assess the protective capability of commercial EA floor mats. The peak load from the lower and upper load cells in the Hybrid III and MIL-LX legs were compared to identify at what point their respective injury criteria would be exceeded in both the padded and unpadded conditions. Comparisons of the surrogate legs' responses resulted in different evaluations of risk, with the Hybrid III leg exceeding its limit at an impact speed of 6.0 m/s, and the MIL-LX exceeding its limit at 5.5 m/s (for tests including an EA product). Furthermore, the inclusion of an EA mat had a greater relative protective effect on the Hybrid III than the MIL-LX leg, with padding reducing the force to 17 to 34% of the unpadded condition for the Hybrid III, versus 67 to 89% of the unpadded condition for the MIL-LX. The load reduction was found to be velocity dependent for both surrogates. These results indicate that the two surrogates are not equivalent in their assessment of protective capability. Therefore, the selection of ATD leg for testing of EA mats (and other protective devices) will influence the evaluation of these systems, and more robust metrics are required to identify which is the most appropriate surrogate for evaluating injury to the lower limb. Reprint & Copyright © 2017 Association of Military Surgeons of the U.S.

Distribution of the coenzyme M pathway of epoxide metabolism among ethene- and vinyl chloride-degrading Mycobacterium strains.

PubMed

Coleman, Nicholas V; Spain, Jim C

2003-10-01

An epoxyalkane:coenzyme M (CoM) transferase (EaCoMT) enzyme was recently found to be active in the aerobic vinyl chloride (VC) and ethene assimilation pathways of Mycobacterium strain JS60. In the present study, EaCoMT activity and genes were investigated in 10 different mycobacteria isolated on VC or ethene from diverse environmental samples. In all cases, epoxyethane metabolism in cell extracts was dependent on CoM, with average specific activities of EaCoMT between 380 and 2,910 nmol/min/mg of protein. PCR with primers based on conserved regions of EaCoMT genes from Mycobacterium strain JS60 and the propene oxidizers Xanthobacter strain Py2 and Rhodococcus strain B-276 yielded fragments (834 bp) of EaCoMT genes from all of the VC- and ethene-assimilating isolates. The Mycobacterium EaCoMT genes form a distinct cluster and are more closely related to the EaCoMT of Rhodococcus strain B-276 than that of Xanthobacter strain Py2. The incongruence of the EaCoMT and 16S rRNA gene trees and the fact that isolates from geographically distant locations possessed almost identical EaCoMT genes suggest that lateral transfer of EaCoMT among the Mycobacterium strains has occurred. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis revealed large linear plasmids (110 to 330 kb) in all of the VC-degrading strains. In Southern blotting experiments, the strain JS60 EaCoMT gene hybridized to many of the plasmids. The CoM-mediated pathway of epoxide metabolism appears to be universal in alkene-assimilating mycobacteria, possibly because of plasmid-mediated lateral gene transfer.

Analgesic and physiological effect of electroacupuncture combined with epidural lidocaine in goats.

PubMed

Cui, Lu-Ying; Guo, Ni-Ni; Li, Yu-Lin; Li, Meng; Ding, Ming-Xing

2017-07-01

To investigate physiological and antinociceptive effects of electroacupuncture (EA) with lidocaine epidural nerve block in goats. Prospective experimental trial. Forty-eight hybrid male goats weighing 27 ± 2 kg. The goats were randomly assigned to six groups: L2.2, epidural lidocaine (2.2 mg kg -1 ); L4.4, epidural lidocaine (4.4 mg kg -1 ); EA; EA-L1.1, EA with epidural lidocaine (1.1 mg kg -1 ); EA-L2.2, EA with epidural lidocaine (2.2 mg kg -1 ); and EA-L4.4, EA with epidural lidocaine (4.4 mg kg -1 ). EA was administered for 120 minutes. Epidural lidocaine was administered 25 minutes after EA started. Nociceptive thresholds of flank and thigh regions, abdominal muscle tone, mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), respiratory frequency (f R ) and rectal temperature were recorded at 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 and 180 minutes. Lidocaine dose-dependently increased nociceptive thresholds. There were no differences in nociceptive thresholds between L4.4 and EA from 30 to 120 minutes. The threshold in EA-L2.2 was lower than in EA-L4.4 from 30 to 120 minutes, but higher than in EA-L1.1 from 30 to 150 minutes or in L4.4 from 30 to 180 minutes. The abdominal muscle tone in EA-L2.2 was higher at 30 minutes, but lower at 90 and 120 minutes than at 0 minutes. There were no differences in muscle tone between L4.4 and L2.2 or EA-L4.4, and between any two of the three EA-lidocaine groups from 0 to 180 minutes. The f R and HR decreased in L4.4 at 60 and 90 minutes compared with 0 minutes. No differences in f R , HR, MAP and temperature among the groups occurred from 30 to 180 minutes. EA combined with 2.2 mg kg -1 epidural lidocaine provides better antinociceptive effect than 4.4 mg kg -1 epidural lidocaine alone in goats. EA provided antinociception and allowed a decrease in epidural lidocaine dose. Copyright © 2017 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Structure and anti-influenza A (H1N1) virus activity of three polysaccharides from Eucheuma denticulatum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Guangli; Li, Miaomiao; Wang, Wei; Liu, Xin; Zhao, Xiaoliang; Lv, Youjing; Li, Guangsheng; Jiao, Guangling; Zhao, Xia

2012-12-01

Three polysaccharides (EW, EH and EA) were prepared from a red alga Eucheuma denticulatum by sequential extraction with cold water, hot water and sodium hydroxide water solution. Their monosaccharide compositions, relative molecular mass and structural characterization were determined by gas chromatography, high performance 1iquid chromatography, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy methods. EW was hybrid ı/κ/ν-carrageenan (70 ı/17κ/13ν-carrabiose), EH was mainly ı-carrageenan, and EA was mainly α-1,4-Glucan (88%) but mixed with small amount of ı-carrageenan (12%). The relative molecular mass of EW, EH and EA was 480, 580 and 510 kDa, respectively. The anti-influenza A (H1N1) virus activity of these three polysaccharides was evaluated using the Madin-Darby canine kidney cells model. EW showed good anti-H1N1 virus activity, its IC50 was 276.5 μg mL-1, and the inhibition rate to H1N1 virus was 52% when its concentration was 250 μg mL-1. The IC50 of ı-carrageenan EH was 366.4 μg mL-1, whereas EA showed lower anti-H1N1 virus activity (IC50>430 μg mL-1). Available data obtained give positive evidence that the hybrid carrageenan EW from Eucheuma denticulatum can be used as potential anti-H1N1 virus inhibitor in future.

Revisiting Confucianism as a conceptual framework for Asian family study.

PubMed

Park, Mijung; Chesla, Catherine

2007-08-01

Confucianism is the central philosophic background for much of the culture in East Asia (EA), particularly for understanding family and social context. The purpose of this article is to examine more fully Confucianism as a conceptual framework for understanding EA family processes and health practices. Confucianism stresses the traditional boundaries of ethical responsibility and the ideal of good human life as a whole. Embedded within Confucian values are five principal relationships, through which each person defines a sense of identity, duty, and responsibility. Current studies of EA families that consider Confucianism as a theoretical base focus almost exclusively on filial piety and collectivism. Focusing only on these two aspects prevents scholars from exploring more complex interpretations of EA family life. A broader inclusion of multiple concepts from Confucianism can provide guidance in exploring the complex and multidimensional aspects of EA family life and allow for broader articulation of family processes.

The Nature of Nurture: Using a Virtual-Parent Design to Test Parenting Effects on Children's Educational Attainment in Genotyped Families.

PubMed

Bates, Timothy C; Maher, Brion S; Medland, Sarah E; McAloney, Kerrie; Wright, Margaret J; Hansell, Narelle K; Kendler, Kenneth S; Martin, Nicholas G; Gillespie, Nathan A

2018-04-01

Research on environmental and genetic pathways to complex traits such as educational attainment (EA) is confounded by uncertainty over whether correlations reflect effects of transmitted parental genes, causal family environments, or some, possibly interactive, mixture of both. Thus, an aggregate of thousands of alleles associated with EA (a polygenic risk score; PRS) may tap parental behaviors and home environments promoting EA in the offspring. New methods for unpicking and determining these causal pathways are required. Here, we utilize the fact that parents pass, at random, 50% of their genome to a given offspring to create independent scores for the transmitted alleles (conventional EA PRS) and a parental score based on alleles not transmitted to the offspring (EA VP_PRS). The formal effect of non-transmitted alleles on offspring attainment was tested in 2,333 genotyped twins for whom high-quality measures of EA, assessed at age 17 years, were available, and whose parents were also genotyped. Four key findings were observed. First, the EA PRS and EA VP_PRS were empirically independent, validating the virtual-parent design. Second, in this family-based design, children's own EA PRS significantly predicted their EA (β = 0.15), ruling out stratification confounds as a cause of the association of attainment with the EA PRS. Third, parental EA PRS predicted the SES environment parents provided to offspring (β = 0.20), and parental SES and offspring EA were significantly associated (β = 0.33). This would suggest that the EA PRS is at least as strongly linked to social competence as it is to EA, leading to higher attained SES in parents and, therefore, a higher experienced SES for children. In a full structural equation model taking account of family genetic relatedness across multiple siblings the non-transmitted allele effects were estimated at similar values; but, in this more complex model, confidence intervals included zero. A test using the forthcoming EA3 PRS may clarify this outcome. The virtual-parent method may be applied to clarify causality in other phenotypes where observational evidence suggests parenting may moderate expression of other outcomes, for instance in psychiatry.

CNT-Confinement Effects on the Menshutkin SN2 Reaction: The Role of Nonbonded Interactions.

PubMed

Giacinto, Pietro; Zerbetto, Francesco; Bottoni, Andrea; Calvaresi, Matteo

2016-08-09

We investigated the effects of CNT confinement ((6,6) tube) on the model Menshutkin reaction H3N + H3CCl = H3NCH3((+)) + Cl((-)), which is representative of chemical processes involving developing of charge separation along the reaction pathway. We used either a full QM approach or a hybrid QM/MM approach. We found that the CNT significantly lowers the activation barrier with respect to the hypothetical gas-phase reaction: The activation barrier Ea varies from 34.6 to 25.7 kcal mol(-1) (a value similar to that found in a nonpolar solvent) and the endothermicity ΔE from 31.2 to 13.5 kcal mol(-1). A complex interplay between C-H···π, N-H···π, and Cl···π nonbonded interactions of the endohedral system with the CNT wall explains the lower barrier and lower endothermicity. The hybrid QM/MM approach (MM = UFF force field) does not reproduce satisfactorily the QM energy ΔE (18.1 vs 13.5 kcal mol(-1)), while optimum agreement is found in the barrier Ea (25.8 vs 25.7 kcal mol(-1)). These results suggest that the simple Qeq formalism (included in the MM potential) does not describe properly the effect of CNT polarization in the presence of the net charge separation featuring the final product. A more accurate estimate of the tube polarization was obtained with single-point QM/MM computations including PCM corrections (using the benzene dielectric constant) on the QM/MM optimized structures. After PCM corrections, Ea changes slightly (from 25.8 to 24.5 kcal mol(-1)), but a more significant variation is observed for ΔE that becomes 13.1 kcal mol(-1), in rather good agreement with the full QM. This level of theory (QM/MM with PCM correction, MM = UFF) represents a more general approach suitable for describing CNT-confined chemical processes involving significant charge separation. QM/MM computations were extended to CNTs of different radii: (4,4), (5,5), (7,7), (8,8), (9,9), (10,10), (12,12), (14,14) CNTs and, as a limit case, a graphene sheet. The lack of space available in the small tube (4,4) causes a strong structural distortion and a consequent increase in Ea and ΔE (40.8 and 44.0 kcal mol(-1), respectively). These quantities suddenly decrease with the augmented volume inside the (5,5) tube. For larger tubes, different structural arrangements of the endohedral system are possible, and Ea and ΔE remain almost constant until the limiting case of graphene.

Coupled Cluster Studies of Ionization Potentials and Electron Affinities of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes

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

Peng, Bo; Govind, Niranjan; Aprà, Edoardo

In this paper we apply equation-of-motion coupled cluster (EOMCC) methods in studies of vertical ionization potentials (IP) and electron affinities (EA) for sin- gled walled carbon nanotubes. EOMCC formulations for ionization potentials and electron affinities employing excitation manifolds spanned by single and double ex- citations (IP/EA-EOMCCSD) are used to study IPs and EAs of nanotubes as a function of nanotube length. Several armchair nanotubes corresponding to C20nH20 models with n = 2 - 6 have been used in benchmark calculations. In agreement with previous studies, we demonstrate that the electronegativity of C20nH20 systems remains, to a large extent, independent ofmore » nanotube length. We also compare IP/EA- EOMCCSD results with those obtained with the coupled cluster models with single and double excitations corrected by perturbative triples, CCSD(T), and density func- tional theory (DFT) using global and range-separated hybrid exchange-correlation functionals.« less

Overexpression of EaDREB2 and pyramiding of EaDREB2 with the pea DNA helicase gene (PDH45) enhance drought and salinity tolerance in sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid).

PubMed

Augustine, Sruthy Maria; Ashwin Narayan, J; Syamaladevi, Divya P; Appunu, C; Chakravarthi, M; Ravichandran, V; Tuteja, Narendra; Subramonian, N

2015-02-01

EaDREB2 overexpressed in sugarcane enhanced tolerance to drought and salinity. When co-transformed with plant DNA helicase gene, DREB2 showed greater level of salinity tolerance than in single-gene transgenics. Drought is one of the most challenging agricultural issues limiting sustainable sugarcane production and can potentially cause up to 50 % yield loss. DREB proteins play a vital regulatory role in abiotic stress tolerance in plants. We previously reported that expression of EaDREB2 is enhanced by drought stress in Erianthus arundinaceus. In this study, we have isolated the DREB2 gene from E. arundinaceus, transformed one of the most popular sugarcane variety Co 86032 in tropical India with EaDREB2 through Agrobacterium-mediated transformation, pyramided the EaDREB2 gene with the gene coding for PDH45 driven by Port Ubi 2.3 promoter through particle bombardment and evaluated the V1 transgenics for soil deficit moisture and salinity stresses. Soil moisture stress was imposed at the tillering phase by withholding irrigation. Physiological, molecular and morphological parameters were used to assess drought tolerance. Salinity tolerance was assessed through leaf disc senescence and bud sprout assays under salinity stress. Our results indicate that overexpression of EaDREB2 in sugarcane enhances drought and salinity tolerance to a greater extent than the untransformed control plants. This is the first report of the co-transformation of EaDREB2 and PDH45 which shows higher salinity tolerance but lower drought tolerance than EaDREB2 alone. The present study seems to suggest that, for combining drought and salinity tolerance together, co-transformation is a better approach.

Enhancing fluorescence intensity of Ellagic acid in Borax-HCl-CTAB micelles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Feng; Huang, Wei; Zhang, Shuai; Liu, Guokui; Li, Kexiang; Tang, Bo

2011-03-01

Ellagic acid (C 14H 6O 8), a naturally occurring phytochemical, found mainly in berries and some nuts, has anticarcinogenic and antioxidant properties. It is found that fluorescence of Ellagic acid (EA) is greatly enhanced by micelle of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) surfactant. Based on this effect, a sensitive proposed fluorimetric method was applied for the determination of Ellagic acid in aqueous solution. In the Borax-HCl buffer, the fluorescence intensity of Ellagic acid in the presence of CTAB is proportional to the concentration of Ellagic acid in range from 8.0 × 10 -10 to 4.0 × 10 -5 mol L -1; and the detection limits are 3.2 × 10 -10 mol L -1 and 5.9 × 10 -10 mol L -1 excited at 266 nm and 388 nm, respectively. The actual samples of pomegranate rinds are simply manipulated and satisfactorily determined. The interaction mechanism studies argue that the negative EA-Borax complex is formed and solubilized in the cationic surfactant CTAB micelle in this system. The fluorescence intensity of EA enhances because the CTAB micelle provides a hydrophobic microenvironment for EA-Borax complex, which can prevent collision with water molecules and decrease the energy loss of EA-Borax complex.

Tunable White-Light Emission in Single-Cation-Templated Three-Layered 2D Perovskites (CH 3 CH 2 NH 3 ) 4 Pb 3 Br 10–x Cl x

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

Mao, Lingling; Wu, Yilei; Stoumpos, Constantinos C.

Two-dimensional (2D) hybrid halide perovskites come as a family (B) 2(A) n-1PbnX 3n+1 (B and A= cations; X= halide). These perovskites are promising semiconductors for solar cells and optoelectronic applications. Among the fascinating properties of these materials is white-light emission, which has been mostly observed in single-layered 2D lead bromide or chloride systems (n = 1), where the broad emission comes from the transient photoexcited states generated by self-trapped excitons (STEs) from structural distortion. Here we report a multilayered 2D perovskite (n = 3) exhibiting a tunable white-light emission. Ethylammonium (EA+) can stabilize the 2D perovskite structure in EA 4Pbmore » 3Br 10–xCl x (x = 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9.5, and 10) with EA + being both the A and B cations in this system. Because of the larger size of EA, these materials show a high distortion level in their inorganic structures, with EA4Pb3Cl10 having a much larger distortion than that of EA 4Pb 3Br 10, which results in broadband white-light emission of EA 4Pb 3Cl 10 in contrast to narrow blue emission of EA4Pb3Br10. The average lifetime of the series decreases gradually from the Cl end to the Br end, indicating that the larger distortion also prolongs the lifetime (more STE states). The band gap of EA 4Pb 3Br 10–xCl x ranges from 3.45 eV (x = 10) to 2.75 eV (x = 0), following Vegard’s law. First-principles density functional theory calculations (DFT) show that both EA 4Pb 3Cl 10 and EA 4Pb 3Br 10 are direct band gap semiconductors. The color rendering index (CRI) of the series improves from 66 (EA 4Pb 3Cl 10) to 83 (EA 4Pb 3Br 0.5Cl 9.5), displaying high tunability and versatility of the title compounds.« less

Tunable White-Light Emission in Single-Cation-Templated Three-Layered 2D Perovskites (CH3CH2NH3)4Pb3Br10-xClx.

PubMed

Mao, Lingling; Wu, Yilei; Stoumpos, Constantinos C; Traore, Boubacar; Katan, Claudine; Even, Jacky; Wasielewski, Michael R; Kanatzidis, Mercouri G

2017-08-30

Two-dimensional (2D) hybrid halide perovskites come as a family (B) 2 (A) n-1 Pb n X 3n+1 (B and A= cations; X= halide). These perovskites are promising semiconductors for solar cells and optoelectronic applications. Among the fascinating properties of these materials is white-light emission, which has been mostly observed in single-layered 2D lead bromide or chloride systems (n = 1), where the broad emission comes from the transient photoexcited states generated by self-trapped excitons (STEs) from structural distortion. Here we report a multilayered 2D perovskite (n = 3) exhibiting a tunable white-light emission. Ethylammonium (EA + ) can stabilize the 2D perovskite structure in EA 4 Pb 3 Br 10-x Cl x (x = 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9.5, and 10) with EA + being both the A and B cations in this system. Because of the larger size of EA, these materials show a high distortion level in their inorganic structures, with EA 4 Pb 3 Cl 10 having a much larger distortion than that of EA 4 Pb 3 Br 10 , which results in broadband white-light emission of EA 4 Pb 3 Cl 10 in contrast to narrow blue emission of EA 4 Pb 3 Br 10 . The average lifetime of the series decreases gradually from the Cl end to the Br end, indicating that the larger distortion also prolongs the lifetime (more STE states). The band gap of EA 4 Pb 3 Br 10-x Cl x ranges from 3.45 eV (x = 10) to 2.75 eV (x = 0), following Vegard's law. First-principles density functional theory calculations (DFT) show that both EA 4 Pb 3 Cl 10 and EA 4 Pb 3 Br 10 are direct band gap semiconductors. The color rendering index (CRI) of the series improves from 66 (EA 4 Pb 3 Cl 10 ) to 83 (EA 4 Pb 3 Br 0.5 Cl 9.5 ), displaying high tunability and versatility of the title compounds.

On the usefulness of gradient information in multi-objective deformable image registration using a B-spline-based dual-dynamic transformation model: comparison of three optimization algorithms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pirpinia, Kleopatra; Bosman, Peter A. N.; Sonke, Jan-Jakob; van Herk, Marcel; Alderliesten, Tanja

2015-03-01

The use of gradient information is well-known to be highly useful in single-objective optimization-based image registration methods. However, its usefulness has not yet been investigated for deformable image registration from a multi-objective optimization perspective. To this end, within a previously introduced multi-objective optimization framework, we use a smooth B-spline-based dual-dynamic transformation model that allows us to derive gradient information analytically, while still being able to account for large deformations. Within the multi-objective framework, we previously employed a powerful evolutionary algorithm (EA) that computes and advances multiple outcomes at once, resulting in a set of solutions (a so-called Pareto front) that represents efficient trade-offs between the objectives. With the addition of the B-spline-based transformation model, we studied the usefulness of gradient information in multiobjective deformable image registration using three different optimization algorithms: the (gradient-less) EA, a gradientonly algorithm, and a hybridization of these two. We evaluated the algorithms to register highly deformed images: 2D MRI slices of the breast in prone and supine positions. Results demonstrate that gradient-based multi-objective optimization significantly speeds up optimization in the initial stages of optimization. However, allowing sufficient computational resources, better results could still be obtained with the EA. Ultimately, the hybrid EA found the best overall approximation of the optimal Pareto front, further indicating that adding gradient-based optimization for multiobjective optimization-based deformable image registration can indeed be beneficial

Cerebral metabonomics study on Parkinson's disease mice treated with extract of Acanthopanax senticosus harms.

PubMed

Li, Xu-zhao; Zhang, Shuai-nan; Lu, Fang; Liu, Chang-feng; Wang, Yu; Bai, Yu; Wang, Na; Liu, Shu-min

2013-10-15

Extract of Acanthopanax senticosus harms (EAS) has neuroprotective effect on Parkinson's disease (PD) mice against dopaminergic neuronal damage. However, studies of its anti-PD mechanism are challenging, owing to the complex pathophysiology of PD, and complexity of EAS with multiple constituents acting on different metabolic pathways. Here, we have investigated the metabolic profiles and potential biomarkers in a mice model of MPTP-induced PD after treatment of EAS. Metabonomics based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS) was used to profile the metabolic fingerprints of mesencephalon obtained from 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine Hydrochloride (MPTP-HCl)-induced PD mice model with and without EAS treatment. Through partial least squares-discriminate analysis (PLS-DA), it was observed that metabolic perturbations induced by MPTP were restored after treatment with EAS. Metabolites with significant changes induced by MPTP, including L-dopa, 5'-methylthioadenosine, tetradecanoylcarnitine, phytosphingosine-1-P, Cer(d18:0/18:0), LysoPC(20:4(5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z)), L-palmitoyl -carnitine, tetracosanoylglycine, morphiceptin and stearoylcarnitine, were characterized as potential biomarkers involved in the pathogenesis of PD. The derivations of all those biomarkers can be regulated by EAS treatment except Cer(d18:0/18:0), LysoPC(20:4(5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z)), morphiceptin. The therapeutic effect of EAS on PD may involve in regulating the tyrosine metabolism, mitochondrial beta-oxidation of long chain saturated fatty acids, fatty acid metabolism, methionine metabolism, and sphingolipid metabolism. This study indicated that changed metabolites can be certainly recovered by EAS, and the treatment of EAS can be connected with the regulation of related metabolic pathways. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Phylogeny and expression patterns of two apolipoprotein E genes in the flatfish Senegalese sole.

PubMed

Roman-Padilla, Javier; Rodríguez-Rúa, Ana; Carballo, Carlos; Manchado, Manuel; Hachero-Cruzado, Ismael

2018-02-15

The apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is a key component of several lipoproteins involved in lipid homeostasis. In this study, two cDNA sequences encoding ApoE (referred to as apoEa and apoEb) were characterized in the flatfish Solea senegalensis. The predicted peptides contained conserved structural blocks related with their capacity for lipid binding and lipoprotein receptor interaction. At genomic level, both genes contained five exons and four introns and they were organized into two tandem arrays with apoA-IV gene copies. The phylogenetic analysis clearly separated them into two well-supported clusters that matched with their organization in the genome of teleosts. Whole-mount in situ hybridization located the apoEa signal in the yolk syncytial layer (YSL) of lecitothrophic larval stages (0dph) and in the anterior intestine of exotrophic larvae and benthic fish. In the case of apoEb, hybridization signals were located in the YSL, tail bud, eyes and mouth at 0dph and in the otic vesicle, hindbrain, eyes, pharynx, mouth, heart and intestine at 1dph. In exotrophic larvae, apoEb was ubiquitously expressed in several tissues such as taste buds, brain, mouth, nostril, gills, intestine, liver and around the neuromasts and eyes. Quantification of mRNA levels in pools of whole larvae confirmed distinct expression patterns with a significant reduction of apoEa and an increase of apoEb mRNA levels throughout larval development. Moreover, only apoEa transcripts increased in response to food supply suggesting that this paralog mostly participates in the absorption and transport of dietary lipids and the apoEb in the redistribution of endogenous lipids as well as in neural tissue regeneration. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of electroacupuncture on orphanin FQ immunoreactivity and preproorphanin FQ mRNA in nucleus of raphe magnus in the neuropathic pain rats.

PubMed

Ma, Fei; Xie, Hong; Dong, Zhi-Qiang; Wang, Yan-Qing; Wu, Gen-Cheng

2004-07-15

Orphanin FQ (OFQ) is an endogenous ligand for opioid receptor-like-1 (ORL1) receptor. Previous studies have shown that both OFQ immunoreactivity and preproorphanin FQ (ppOFQ) mRNA expression could be observed in the brain regions involved in pain modulation, e.g., nucleus of raphe magnus (NRM), dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN), and ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (vlPAG). It was reported that electroacupuncture (EA) has analgesic effect on neuropathic pain, and the analgesic effect was mediated by the endogenous opioid peptides. In the present study, we investigated the effects of EA on the changes of OFQ in the neuropathic pain rats. In the sciatic nerve chronic constriction injury (CCI) model, we investigated the changes of ppOFQ mRNA and OFQ immunoreactivity in NRM after EA by in situ hybridization (ISH) and immunohistochemistry methods, respectively. Then, the ppOFQ mRNA-positive and OFQ immunoreactive cells were counted under a computerized image analysis system. The results showed that expression of ppOFQ mRNA decreased and OFQ immunoreactivity increased after EA treatment in the neuropathic pain rats. These results indicated that EA modulated OFQ synthesis and OFQ peptide level in NRM of the neuropathic pain rats. Copyright 2004 Elsevier Inc.

Potential Benefits of an Integrated Electric-Acoustic Sound Processor with Children: A Preliminary Report.

PubMed

Wolfe, Jace; Neumann, Sara; Schafer, Erin; Marsh, Megan; Wood, Mark; Baker, R Stanley

2017-02-01

A number of published studies have demonstrated the benefits of electric-acoustic stimulation (EAS) over conventional electric stimulation for adults with functional low-frequency acoustic hearing and severe-to-profound high-frequency hearing loss. These benefits potentially include better speech recognition in quiet and in noise, better localization, improvements in sound quality, better music appreciation and aptitude, and better pitch recognition. There is, however, a paucity of published reports describing the potential benefits and limitations of EAS for children with functional low-frequency acoustic hearing and severe-to-profound high-frequency hearing loss. The objective of this study was to explore the potential benefits of EAS for children. A repeated measures design was used to evaluate performance differences obtained with EAS stimulation versus acoustic- and electric-only stimulation. Seven users of Cochlear Nucleus Hybrid, Nucleus 24 Freedom, CI512, and CI422 implants were included in the study. Sentence recognition (assayed using the pediatric version of the AzBio sentence recognition test) was evaluated in quiet and at three fixed signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) (0, +5, and +10 dB). Functional hearing performance was also evaluated with the use of questionnaires, including the comparative version of the Speech, Spatial, and Qualities, the Listening Inventory for Education Revised, and the Children's Home Inventory for Listening Difficulties. Speech recognition in noise was typically better with EAS compared to participants' performance with acoustic- and electric-only stimulation, particularly when evaluated at the less favorable SNR. Additionally, in real-world situations, children generally preferred to use EAS compared to electric-only stimulation. Also, the participants' classroom teachers observed better hearing performance in the classroom with the use of EAS. Use of EAS provided better speech recognition in quiet and in noise when compared to performance obtained with use of acoustic- and electric-only stimulation, and children responded favorably to the use of EAS implemented in an integrated sound processor for real-world use. American Academy of Audiology

ComEA Is Essential for the Transfer of External DNA into the Periplasm in Naturally Transformable Vibrio cholerae Cells

PubMed Central

Seitz, Patrick; Pezeshgi Modarres, Hassan; Borgeaud, Sandrine; Bulushev, Roman D.; Steinbock, Lorenz J.; Radenovic, Aleksandra; Dal Peraro, Matteo; Blokesch, Melanie

2014-01-01

The DNA uptake of naturally competent bacteria has been attributed to the action of DNA uptake machineries resembling type IV pilus complexes. However, the protein(s) for pulling the DNA across the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria remain speculative. Here we show that the competence protein ComEA binds incoming DNA in the periplasm of naturally competent Vibrio cholerae cells thereby promoting DNA uptake, possibly through ratcheting and entropic forces associated with ComEA binding. Using comparative modeling and molecular simulations, we projected the 3D structure and DNA-binding site of ComEA. These in silico predictions, combined with in vivo and in vitro validations of wild-type and site-directed modified variants of ComEA, suggested that ComEA is not solely a DNA receptor protein but plays a direct role in the DNA uptake process. Furthermore, we uncovered that ComEA homologs of other bacteria (both Gram-positive and Gram-negative) efficiently compensated for the absence of ComEA in V. cholerae, suggesting that the contribution of ComEA in the DNA uptake process might be conserved among naturally competent bacteria. PMID:24391524

Enhancements of evolutionary algorithm for the complex requirements of a nurse scheduling problem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tein, Lim Huai; Ramli, Razamin

2014-12-01

Over the years, nurse scheduling is a noticeable problem that is affected by the global nurse turnover crisis. The more nurses are unsatisfied with their working environment the more severe the condition or implication they tend to leave. Therefore, the current undesirable work schedule is partly due to that working condition. Basically, there is a lack of complimentary requirement between the head nurse's liability and the nurses' need. In particular, subject to highly nurse preferences issue, the sophisticated challenge of doing nurse scheduling is failure to stimulate tolerance behavior between both parties during shifts assignment in real working scenarios. Inevitably, the flexibility in shifts assignment is hard to achieve for the sake of satisfying nurse diverse requests with upholding imperative nurse ward coverage. Hence, Evolutionary Algorithm (EA) is proposed to cater for this complexity in a nurse scheduling problem (NSP). The restriction of EA is discussed and thus, enhancement on the EA operators is suggested so that the EA would have the characteristic of a flexible search. This paper consists of three types of constraints which are the hard, semi-hard and soft constraints that can be handled by the EA with enhanced parent selection and specialized mutation operators. These operators and EA as a whole contribute to the efficiency of constraint handling, fitness computation as well as flexibility in the search, which correspond to the employment of exploration and exploitation principles.

Electrical alternans induced by a brief period of myocardial ischemia during percutaneous coronary intervention: The characteristic ECG morphology and relationship to mechanical alternans.

PubMed

Oguro, Takeo; Fujii, Masatsune; Fuse, Koichi; Takahashi, Minoru; Fujita, Satoru; Kitazawa, Hitoshi; Sato, Masahito; Ikeda, Yoshio; Okabe, Masaaki; Aizawa, Yoshifusa

2015-11-01

Electrical alternans (EA) has not been fully studied in the current percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedure. The purpose of this study was to evaluate visible EA and the morphology of ST segment during PCI. The incidence of visible EA and ST-segment morphology were studied while the coronary artery was occluded for 20 seconds. When data were available, the relationship between EA and blood pressure was analyzed. The clinical and electrocardiographic data were compared with those of the age- and sex-matched controls. During balloon inflation, visible EA was observed in 5 of 306 patients (1.6%) in the last 2 years. EA was limited to PCI in the proximal left anterior descending artery. The ST segment elevated to 10.1 ± 3.2 mm, followed by an alternating QRS complex with a lower ST segment (5.6 ± 1.9 mm; P = .0047) with characteristic ST-segment morphology, which is known as lambda pattern. The mean age of the 5 patients was 68 ± 20 years, and 4(80%). were men. After the release of inflation, the ST-segment level returned rapidly to baseline, followed by normalization of J point. Compared with controls, the maximal elevated ST segment was significantly higher in patients with EA (5.7 ± 2.7 mm; P = .0028). The occlusion of the proximal left anterior descending artery with more severe ischemia seemed to be a prerequisite for developing EA. A higher ST segment was associated with a lower blood pressure and vice versa. A short period of ischemia during PCI may induce visible EA and alternating QRS complexes with a characteristic ST-segment morphology. A higher ST segment was associated with a lower blood pressure and vice versa. Copyright © 2015 Heart Rhythm Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evolutionary algorithms for the optimal management of coastal groundwater: A comparative study toward future challenges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ketabchi, Hamed; Ataie-Ashtiani, Behzad

2015-01-01

This paper surveys the literature associated with the application of evolutionary algorithms (EAs) in coastal groundwater management problems (CGMPs). This review demonstrates that previous studies were mostly relied on the application of limited and particular EAs, mainly genetic algorithm (GA) and its variants, to a number of specific problems. The exclusive investigation of these problems is often not the representation of the variety of feasible processes may be occurred in coastal aquifers. In this study, eight EAs are evaluated for CGMPs. The considered EAs are: GA, continuous ant colony optimization (CACO), particle swarm optimization (PSO), differential evolution (DE), artificial bee colony optimization (ABC), harmony search (HS), shuffled complex evolution (SCE), and simplex simulated annealing (SIMPSA). The first application of PSO, ABC, HS, and SCE in CGMPs is reported here. Moreover, the four benchmark problems with different degree of difficulty and variety are considered to address the important issues of groundwater resources in coastal regions. Hence, the wide ranges of popular objective functions and constraints with the number of decision variables ranging from 4 to 15 are included. These benchmark problems are applied in the combined simulation-optimization model to examine the optimization scenarios. Some preliminary experiments are performed to select the most efficient parameters values for EAs to set a fair comparison. The specific capabilities of each EA toward CGMPs in terms of results quality and required computational time are compared. The evaluation of the results highlights EA's applicability in CGMPs, besides the remarkable strengths and weaknesses of them. The comparisons show that SCE, CACO, and PSO yield superior solutions among the EAs according to the quality of solutions whereas ABC presents the poor performance. CACO provides the better solutions (up to 17%) than the worst EA (ABC) for the problem with the highest decision variables and more complexity. In terms of computational time, PSO and SIMPSA are the fastest. SCE needs the highest computational time, even up to four times in comparison to the fastest EAs. CACO and PSO can be recommended for application in CGMPs, in terms of both abovementioned criteria.

Effect of electroacupuncture on the expression of interlukin-1beta mRNA after transient focal cerebral ischemia.

PubMed

Xu, Zhen-Feng; Wu, Gen-Cheng; Cao, Xiao-Ding

2002-01-01

It has been reported that interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta ) play a key role in the pathogenesis of cerebral ischemia. Acupuncture is an effective traditional medical therapy in China. The aim of present study was to evaluate the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on IL-1beta mRNA expression after middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in rats. Using in situ hybridization technique, it was found that in the MCAO group the expression of IL-1beta mRNA was significantly increased at 2h, 6h, 12h after reperfusion in cerebral ischemic cortex compared with normal group. In EA+ MCAO group the expression of IL-1beta mRNA was significantly decreased at 2h, 6h and 12h in ischemic cortex compared with MCAO group. The results indicated that EA might decrease the IL-1beta protein expression by reducing the IL-beta mRNA expression in ischemic cortex.

Covalent functionalization of graphene by azobenzene with molecular hydrogen bonds for long-term solar thermal storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Yiyu; Liu, Hongpo; Luo, Wen; Liu, Enzuo; Zhao, Naiqin; Yoshino, Katsumi; Feng, Wei

2013-11-01

Reduced graphene oxide-azobenzene (RGO-AZO) hybrids were prepared via covalent functionalization for long-term solar thermal storage. Thermal barrier (ΔEa) of cis to tran reversion and thermal storage (ΔH) were improved by molecular hydrogen bonds (H-bonds) through ortho- or para-substitution of AZO. Intramolecular H-bonds thermally stabilized cis-ortho-AZO on RGO with a long-term half-life of 5400 h (ΔEa = 1.2 eV), which was much longer than that of RGO-para-AZO (116 h). RGO-para-AZO with one intermolecular H-bond showed a high density of thermal storage up to 269.8 kJ kg-1 compared with RGO-ortho-AZO (149.6 kJ kg-1) with multiple intra- and intermolecular H-bonds of AZO according to relaxed stable structures. Thermal storage in experiment was the same order magnitude to theoretical data based on ΔH calculated by density functional theory and packing density. Photoactive RGO-AZO hybrid can be developed for high-performance solar thermal storage by optimizing molecular H-bonds.

Elucidation and short-term forecasting of microcystin concentrations in Lake Suwa (Japan) by means of artificial neural networks and evolutionary algorithms.

PubMed

Chan, Wai Sum; Recknagel, Friedrich; Cao, Hongqing; Park, Ho-Dong

2007-05-01

Non-supervised artificial neural networks (ANN) and hybrid evolutionary algorithms (EA) were applied to analyse and model 12 years of limnological time-series data of the shallow hypertrophic Lake Suwa in Japan. The results have improved understanding of relationships between changing microcystin concentrations, Microcystis species abundances and annual rainfall intensity. The data analysis by non-supervised ANN revealed that total Microcystis abundance and extra-cellular microcystin concentrations in typical dry years are much higher than those in typical wet years. It also showed that high microcystin concentrations in dry years coincided with the dominance of the toxic Microcystis viridis whilst in typical wet years non-toxic Microcystis ichthyoblabe were dominant. Hybrid EA were used to discover rule sets to explain and forecast the occurrence of high microcystin concentrations in relation to water quality and climate conditions. The results facilitated early warning by 3-days-ahead forecasting of microcystin concentrations based on limnological and meteorological input data, achieving an r(2)=0.74 for testing.

Covalent functionalization of graphene by azobenzene with molecular hydrogen bonds for long-term solar thermal storage

PubMed Central

Feng, Yiyu; Liu, Hongpo; Luo, Wen; Liu, Enzuo; Zhao, Naiqin; Yoshino, Katsumi; Feng, Wei

2013-01-01

Reduced graphene oxide-azobenzene (RGO-AZO) hybrids were prepared via covalent functionalization for long-term solar thermal storage. Thermal barrier (ΔEa) of cis to tran reversion and thermal storage (ΔH) were improved by molecular hydrogen bonds (H-bonds) through ortho- or para-substitution of AZO. Intramolecular H-bonds thermally stabilized cis-ortho-AZO on RGO with a long-term half-life of 5400 h (ΔEa = 1.2 eV), which was much longer than that of RGO-para-AZO (116 h). RGO-para-AZO with one intermolecular H-bond showed a high density of thermal storage up to 269.8 kJ kg−1 compared with RGO-ortho-AZO (149.6 kJ kg−1) with multiple intra- and intermolecular H-bonds of AZO according to relaxed stable structures. Thermal storage in experiment was the same order magnitude to theoretical data based on ΔH calculated by density functional theory and packing density. Photoactive RGO-AZO hybrid can be developed for high-performance solar thermal storage by optimizing molecular H-bonds. PMID:24247355

Covalent functionalization of graphene by azobenzene with molecular hydrogen bonds for long-term solar thermal storage.

PubMed

Feng, Yiyu; Liu, Hongpo; Luo, Wen; Liu, Enzuo; Zhao, Naiqin; Yoshino, Katsumi; Feng, Wei

2013-11-19

Reduced graphene oxide-azobenzene (RGO-AZO) hybrids were prepared via covalent functionalization for long-term solar thermal storage. Thermal barrier (ΔEa) of cis to tran reversion and thermal storage (ΔH) were improved by molecular hydrogen bonds (H-bonds) through ortho- or para-substitution of AZO. Intramolecular H-bonds thermally stabilized cis-ortho-AZO on RGO with a long-term half-life of 5400 h (ΔEa = 1.2 eV), which was much longer than that of RGO-para-AZO (116 h). RGO-para-AZO with one intermolecular H-bond showed a high density of thermal storage up to 269.8 kJ kg(-1) compared with RGO-ortho-AZO (149.6 kJ kg(-1)) with multiple intra- and intermolecular H-bonds of AZO according to relaxed stable structures. Thermal storage in experiment was the same order magnitude to theoretical data based on ΔH calculated by density functional theory and packing density. Photoactive RGO-AZO hybrid can be developed for high-performance solar thermal storage by optimizing molecular H-bonds.

SIMSISH Technique Does Not Alter the Apparent Isotopic Composition of Bacterial Cells

PubMed Central

Chapleur, Olivier; Wu, Ting-Di; Guerquin-Kern, Jean-Luc; Mazéas, Laurent; Bouchez, Théodore

2013-01-01

In order to identify the function of uncultured microorganisms in their environment, the SIMSISH method, combining in situ hybridization (ISH) and nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometry (nanoSIMS) imaging, has been proposed to determine the quantitative uptake of specific labelled substrates by uncultured microbes at the single cell level. This technique requires the hybridization of rRNA targeted halogenated DNA probes on fixed and permeabilized microorganisms. Exogenous atoms are introduced into cells and endogenous atoms removed during the experimental procedures. Consequently differences between the original and the apparent isotopic composition of cells may occur. In the present study, the influence of the experimental procedures of SIMSISH on the isotopic composition of carbon in E. coli cells was evaluated with nanoSIMS and compared to elemental analyser-isotopic ratio mass spectrometer (EA-IRMS) measurements. Our results show that fixation and hybridization have a very limited, reproducible and homogeneous influence on the isotopic composition of cells. Thereby, the SIMSISH procedure minimizes the contamination of the sample by exogenous atoms, thus providing a means to detect the phylogenetic identity and to measure precisely the carbon isotopic composition at the single cell level. This technique was successfully applied to a complex sample with double bromine – iodine labelling targeting a large group of bacteria and a specific archaea to evaluate their specific 13C uptake during labelled methanol anaerobic degradation. PMID:24204855

Cosmic rays energy determination by radio emission registration method at frequency 30-35 MHz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knurenko, S. P.; Petrov, I. S.

2017-11-01

The study of cosmic rays (CR) of ultrahigh energies first of all requires an estimate of the energy, the spectrum in terms of energies, masses, and the anisotropy of the arrival of primary particles. This can only be done by calculating the energies of all the secondary particles formed during the interaction of the primary particle with the nuclei of the air atoms [1]. First of all, this is the registration of Cherenkov and ionization radiation [2, 3]. According to model calculations, the loss of ionization of air by particles is spent up to 80% of the total energy of the primary particle [4]. The rest of the energy is spent on nuclear interactions of hadrons (nucleons) and is carried away by high-energy muons at sea level. In the hybrid registration of air showers, i.e. electron, muon, and Cherenkov components, we can empirically estimate the energy of the primary CR particle. Such a method has been developed and is being used to this day at the Yakutsk complex installation of the EAS. A detailed description of this method is given in [5, 6]. As an alternative to the energy balance method, we describe below the method of independent estimation of E0 obtained by measuring the radio emission of EAS at the frequency of 30-35 MHz at the Yakutsk array.

Evolutionary optimization of radial basis function classifiers for data mining applications.

PubMed

Buchtala, Oliver; Klimek, Manuel; Sick, Bernhard

2005-10-01

In many data mining applications that address classification problems, feature and model selection are considered as key tasks. That is, appropriate input features of the classifier must be selected from a given (and often large) set of possible features and structure parameters of the classifier must be adapted with respect to these features and a given data set. This paper describes an evolutionary algorithm (EA) that performs feature and model selection simultaneously for radial basis function (RBF) classifiers. In order to reduce the optimization effort, various techniques are integrated that accelerate and improve the EA significantly: hybrid training of RBF networks, lazy evaluation, consideration of soft constraints by means of penalty terms, and temperature-based adaptive control of the EA. The feasibility and the benefits of the approach are demonstrated by means of four data mining problems: intrusion detection in computer networks, biometric signature verification, customer acquisition with direct marketing methods, and optimization of chemical production processes. It is shown that, compared to earlier EA-based RBF optimization techniques, the runtime is reduced by up to 99% while error rates are lowered by up to 86%, depending on the application. The algorithm is independent of specific applications so that many ideas and solutions can be transferred to other classifier paradigms.

Primary EBV infection of human umbilical cord lymphocytes and EBV genome-negative lymphoblastoid cell lines (BJAB and Ramos).

PubMed

Takimoto, T; Sato, H; Ogura, H

1986-01-01

The appearance of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated nuclear antigen (EBNA) and induction of EBV-induced early antigen (EA) in human umbilical cord blood lymphocytes (HUCLs) and two EBV genome-negative Burkitt's lymphoma (BL) lines (BJAB and Ramos) were studied by infection with EBVs prepared from three different cell lines: marmoset cell line (B95-8) derived from infections mononucleosis, BL-derived cell line (P3HR-1) and human epithelial hybrid cell line (NPC-KT) derived from nasopharyngeal carcinoma. B95-8 virus can transform HUCLs but cannot superinfect Raji cells. P3HR-1 virus can transform HUCLs cells but cannot transform HUCLs. NPC-KT virus can transform HUCLs and can superinfect Raji cells. We have examined the time sequence of EBNA appearance and EA induction in HUCLs, BJAB cells and Ramos cells, in order to determine if three different strains of EBV differ in their abilities to infect their cells. We found that all three strains of EBV can induce EBNA in HUCLs, BJAB cells and Ramos cells. On the other hand, we found that P3HR-1 virus and NPC-KT virus can induce EA in BJAB cells and Ramos cells, but B95-8 virus cannot induce EA in their cells.

The Development of a Conical Composite Energy Absorber for Use in the Attenuation of Crash/Impact Loads

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Littell, Justin D.

2014-01-01

A design for a novel light-weight conical shaped energy absorbing (EA) composite subfloor structure is proposed. This composite EA is fabricated using repeated alternating patterns of a conical geometry to form long beam structures which can be implemented as aircraft subfloor keel beams or frame sections. The geometrical features of this conical design, along with the hybrid composite materials used in the manufacturing process give a strength tailored to achieve a constant 25-40 g sustained crush load, small peak crush loads and long stroke limits. This report will discuss the geometrical design and fabrication methods, along with results from static and dynamic crush testing of 12-in. long subcomponents.

Subcellular distribution and life cycle of Epstein-Barr virus in keratinocytes of oral hairy leukoplakia.

PubMed Central

Rabanus, J. P.; Greenspan, D.; Petersen, V.; Leser, U.; Wolf, H.; Greenspan, J. S.

1991-01-01

The authors investigated the life cycle of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in keratinocytes of oral hairy leukoplakia by combining immunohistochemistry. DNA in situ hybridization, and lectin histochemistry with electron microscopy. Diffuse-staining components of the EBV early antigen complex (EA-D), EBV 150-kd capsid antigen (VCA), EBV membrane antigen (gp350/220), and double-stranded DNA were labeled with monoclonal antibodies. An EBV-DNA probe was used to locate EBV DNA. Wheat-germ agglutinin (WGA) was employed to distinguish Golgi-associated compartments. The authors found EBV proteins and EBV DNA only in keratinocytes with apparent viral assembly. In situ hybridization showed EBV DNA in free corelike material and in electron-dense cores of mature nucleocapsids. Monoclonal antibodies to nonspecific double-stranded DNA attached to the same structures and to marginated chromatin. Components of EA-D were dispersed throughout the nuclei but accumulated near condensed chromatin and in 'punched-out' regions of the chromatin. Epstein-Barr virus 150-kd capsid antigen was found only in the nuclei, where it appeared preferentially on mature nucleocapsids. As yet unexplained arrays of intranuclear particles that remained unlabeled with all EBV-specific probes reacted intensely with an antiserum against common papillomavirus antigen. Gp350/220 was detectable in various cellular membrane compartments and was highly concentrated on EBV envelopes in peripheral Golgi-associated secretory vesicles. It was less abundant on the extracellular EBV, indicating that viral membrane antigen partly dissociates from the mature virus. Combined lectin-binding histochemistry and electron microscopy demonstrated for the first time that EBV is processed in the Golgi apparatus, which eventually releases the virus by fusion with the plasma membrane. These results provide insight into the biologic events that occur during complete EBV replication in vivo. Images Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7 Figure 8 Figure 9 PMID:1649554

Reconceptualizing public participation in environmental assessment as EA civics

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

Sinclair, A. John, E-mail: jsincla@umanitoba.ca; Diduck, Alan P., E-mail: a.diduck@uwinnipeg.ca

Notwithstanding the considerable attention placed on creating meaningful opportunities for public participation in environmental assessment (EA), many participants and those who have reviewed participation processes often find practice sorely wanting. This reality stands in stark juxtaposition to future environmental governance needs, which will require increased openness, deliberation and transdisciplinary knowledge in order to deal with environmental change that is ever more uncertain, complex and conflictual. In this paper, our purpose was to consider how to meet those needs through reconceptualizing public participation as EA civics, founded on an active citizen base, deliberative in nature and orientated toward learning. We domore » this through developing a new conceptual model of next generation participation processes that is relevant at multiple spatial scales and institutional levels, is applicable to the entire assessment cycle and spans temporal scales through feedback loops. Our EA civics model builds on the “civics approach” to environmental governance and “action civics” by extending their core ideas to participation in EA. We did this by conducting an integrative literature review (including numerous papers we have contributed over the years) and reflecting on our own experiences as EA participants. We apply current thinking on public participation design to our EA civics conceptualization and highlight important design features that have received scant attention. We conclude that EA civics holds promise for fairer and more robust participation processes if all aspects of the model are considered and the actions related to each are implemented. - Highlights: • Consideration of the ‘civics approach’ and ‘action civics’ in an EA context • Conceptualization of public participation as EA civics • Reflection on the EA civics as a model of participation suitable for next generation assessment.« less

The Electrolyte Genome project: A big data approach in battery materials discovery

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

Qu, Xiaohui; Jain, Anubhav; Rajput, Nav Nidhi

2015-06-01

We present a high-throughput infrastructure for the automated calculation of molecular properties with a focus on battery electrolytes. The infrastructure is largely open-source and handles both practical aspects (input file generation, output file parsing, and information management) as well as more complex problems (structure matching, salt complex generation, and failure recovery). Using this infrastructure, we have computed the ionization potential (IP) and electron affinities (EA) of 4830 molecules relevant to battery electrolytes (encompassing almost 55,000 quantum mechanics calculations) at the B3LYP/6-31+G(*) level. We describe automated workflows for computing redox potential, dissociation constant, and salt-molecule binding complex structure generation. We presentmore » routines for automatic recovery from calculation errors, which brings the failure rate from 9.2% to 0.8% for the QChem DFT code. Automated algorithms to check duplication between two arbitrary molecules and structures are described. We present benchmark data on basis sets and functionals on the G2-97 test set; one finding is that a IP/EA calculation method that combines PBE geometry optimization and B3LYP energy evaluation requires less computational cost and yields nearly identical results as compared to a full B3LYP calculation, and could be suitable for the calculation of large molecules. Our data indicates that among the 8 functionals tested, XYGJ-OS and B3LYP are the two best functionals to predict IP/EA with an RMSE of 0.12 and 0.27 eV, respectively. Application of our automated workflow to a large set of quinoxaline derivative molecules shows that functional group effect and substitution position effect can be separated for IP/EA of quinoxaline derivatives, and the most sensitive position is different for IP and EA. Published by Elsevier B.V« less

Variations in Static Force Control and Motor Unit Behavior with Error Amplification Feedback in the Elderly.

PubMed

Chen, Yi-Ching; Lin, Linda L; Lin, Yen-Ting; Hu, Chia-Ling; Hwang, Ing-Shiou

2017-01-01

Error amplification (EA) feedback is a promising approach to advance visuomotor skill. As error detection and visuomotor processing at short time scales decline with age, this study examined whether older adults could benefit from EA feedback that included higher-frequency information to guide a force-tracking task. Fourteen young and 14 older adults performed low-level static isometric force-tracking with visual guidance of typical visual feedback and EA feedback containing augmented high-frequency errors. Stabilogram diffusion analysis was used to characterize force fluctuation dynamics. Also, the discharge behaviors of motor units and pooled motor unit coherence were assessed following the decomposition of multi-channel surface electromyography (EMG). EA produced different behavioral and neurophysiological impacts on young and older adults. Older adults exhibited inferior task accuracy with EA feedback than with typical visual feedback, but not young adults. Although stabilogram diffusion analysis revealed that EA led to a significant decrease in critical time points for both groups, EA potentiated the critical point of force fluctuations [Formula: see text], short-term effective diffusion coefficients (Ds), and short-term exponent scaling only for the older adults. Moreover, in older adults, EA added to the size of discharge variability of motor units and discharge regularity of cumulative discharge rate, but suppressed the pooled motor unit coherence in the 13-35 Hz band. Virtual EA alters the strategic balance between open-loop and closed-loop controls for force-tracking. Contrary to expectations, the prevailing use of closed-loop control with EA that contained high-frequency error information enhanced the motor unit discharge variability and undermined the force steadiness in the older group, concerning declines in physiological complexity in the neurobehavioral system and the common drive to the motoneuronal pool against force destabilization.

Comparison of Ergot Alkaloid Biosynthesis Gene Clusters in Claviceps Species Indicates Loss of Late Pathway Steps in Evolution of C. fusiformis▿

PubMed Central

Lorenz, Nicole; Wilson, Ella V.; Machado, Caroline; Schardl, Christopher L.; Tudzynski, Paul

2007-01-01

The grass parasites Claviceps purpurea and Claviceps fusiformis produce ergot alkaloids (EA) in planta and in submerged culture. Whereas EA synthesis (EAS) in C. purpurea proceeds via clavine intermediates to lysergic acid and the complex ergopeptines, C. fusiformis produces only agroclavine and elymoclavine. In C. purpurea the EAS gene (EAS) cluster includes dmaW (encoding the first pathway step), cloA (elymoclavine oxidation to lysergic acid), and the lpsA/lpsB genes (ergopeptine formation). We analyzed the corresponding C. fusiformis EAS cluster to investigate the evolutionary basis for chemotypic differences between the Claviceps species. Other than three peptide synthetase genes (lpsC and the tandem paralogues lpsA1 and lpsA2), homologues of all C. purpurea EAS genes were identified in C. fusiformis, including homologues of lpsB and cloA, which in C. purpurea encode enzymes for steps after clavine synthesis. Rearrangement of the cluster was evident around lpsB, which is truncated in C. fusiformis. This and several frameshift mutations render CflpsB a pseudogene (CflpsBΨ). No obvious inactivating mutation was identified in CfcloA. All C. fusiformis EAS genes, including CflpsBΨ and CfcloA, were expressed in culture. Cross-complementation analyses demonstrated that CfcloA and CflpsBΨ were expressed in C. purpurea but did not encode functional enzymes. In contrast, CpcloA catalyzed lysergic acid biosynthesis in C. fusiformis, indicating that C. fusiformis terminates its EAS pathway at elymoclavine because the cloA gene product is inactive. We propose that the C. fusiformis EAS cluster evolved from a more complete cluster by loss of some lps genes and by rearrangements and mutations inactivating lpsB and cloA. PMID:17720822

Comparison of ergot alkaloid biosynthesis gene clusters in Claviceps species indicates loss of late pathway steps in evolution of C. fusiformis.

PubMed

Lorenz, Nicole; Wilson, Ella V; Machado, Caroline; Schardl, Christopher L; Tudzynski, Paul

2007-11-01

The grass parasites Claviceps purpurea and Claviceps fusiformis produce ergot alkaloids (EA) in planta and in submerged culture. Whereas EA synthesis (EAS) in C. purpurea proceeds via clavine intermediates to lysergic acid and the complex ergopeptines, C. fusiformis produces only agroclavine and elymoclavine. In C. purpurea the EAS gene (EAS) cluster includes dmaW (encoding the first pathway step), cloA (elymoclavine oxidation to lysergic acid), and the lpsA/lpsB genes (ergopeptine formation). We analyzed the corresponding C. fusiformis EAS cluster to investigate the evolutionary basis for chemotypic differences between the Claviceps species. Other than three peptide synthetase genes (lpsC and the tandem paralogues lpsA1 and lpsA2), homologues of all C. purpurea EAS genes were identified in C. fusiformis, including homologues of lpsB and cloA, which in C. purpurea encode enzymes for steps after clavine synthesis. Rearrangement of the cluster was evident around lpsB, which is truncated in C. fusiformis. This and several frameshift mutations render CflpsB a pseudogene (CflpsB(Psi)). No obvious inactivating mutation was identified in CfcloA. All C. fusiformis EAS genes, including CflpsB(Psi) and CfcloA, were expressed in culture. Cross-complementation analyses demonstrated that CfcloA and CflpsB(Psi) were expressed in C. purpurea but did not encode functional enzymes. In contrast, CpcloA catalyzed lysergic acid biosynthesis in C. fusiformis, indicating that C. fusiformis terminates its EAS pathway at elymoclavine because the cloA gene product is inactive. We propose that the C. fusiformis EAS cluster evolved from a more complete cluster by loss of some lps genes and by rearrangements and mutations inactivating lpsB and cloA.

Variations in Static Force Control and Motor Unit Behavior with Error Amplification Feedback in the Elderly

PubMed Central

Chen, Yi-Ching; Lin, Linda L.; Lin, Yen-Ting; Hu, Chia-Ling; Hwang, Ing-Shiou

2017-01-01

Error amplification (EA) feedback is a promising approach to advance visuomotor skill. As error detection and visuomotor processing at short time scales decline with age, this study examined whether older adults could benefit from EA feedback that included higher-frequency information to guide a force-tracking task. Fourteen young and 14 older adults performed low-level static isometric force-tracking with visual guidance of typical visual feedback and EA feedback containing augmented high-frequency errors. Stabilogram diffusion analysis was used to characterize force fluctuation dynamics. Also, the discharge behaviors of motor units and pooled motor unit coherence were assessed following the decomposition of multi-channel surface electromyography (EMG). EA produced different behavioral and neurophysiological impacts on young and older adults. Older adults exhibited inferior task accuracy with EA feedback than with typical visual feedback, but not young adults. Although stabilogram diffusion analysis revealed that EA led to a significant decrease in critical time points for both groups, EA potentiated the critical point of force fluctuations <ΔFc2>, short-term effective diffusion coefficients (Ds), and short-term exponent scaling only for the older adults. Moreover, in older adults, EA added to the size of discharge variability of motor units and discharge regularity of cumulative discharge rate, but suppressed the pooled motor unit coherence in the 13–35 Hz band. Virtual EA alters the strategic balance between open-loop and closed-loop controls for force-tracking. Contrary to expectations, the prevailing use of closed-loop control with EA that contained high-frequency error information enhanced the motor unit discharge variability and undermined the force steadiness in the older group, concerning declines in physiological complexity in the neurobehavioral system and the common drive to the motoneuronal pool against force destabilization. PMID:29167637

Global megatrends and their implications for environmental assessment practice

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

Retief, Francois, E-mail: francois.retief@nwu.ac.za; Bond, Alan; Research Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University

This paper addresses the future of environmental assessment (EA) practice in light of a rapidly changing world. We apply a literature review-based methodology to firstly identify key global megatrends and then reflect upon the implications for EA practice based on some known challenges. The key megatrends identified are synthesised into six categories: i) demographics, ii) urbanization, iii) technological innovation, iv) power shifts, v) resource scarcity and vi) climate change. We then discuss the implications of these megatrends for EA practice against four known EA challenges namely: dealing with i) complexity and uncertainty, ii) efficiency, iii) significance and iv) communication andmore » participation. Our analysis suggests important implications for EA practice such as: increased difficulties with accuracy of prediction; the need for facilitative adaptation; an increase in the occurrence of unexpected events; higher expectations for procedural efficiency; challenges with information and communication management; dealing with significance judgements; and mitigation amidst resource scarcity and increasing pressures on earth systems. The megatrends underscore the need for continued evolution of EA thinking and practice, especially moving away from seeking a predictable single future or outcome towards the possibility of multiple scenarios with associated adaptability and enhanced system resilience capable of responding to rapid change.« less

Kinetic insights over a PEMFC operating on stationary and oscillatory states.

PubMed

Mota, Andressa; Gonzalez, Ernesto R; Eiswirth, Markus

2011-12-01

Kinetic investigations in the oscillatory state have been carried out in order to shed light on the interplay between the complex kinetics exhibited by a proton exchange membrane fuel cell fed with poisoned H(2) (108 ppm of CO) and the other in serie process. The apparent activation energy (E(a)) in the stationary state was investigated in order to clarify the E(a) observed in the oscillatory state. The apparent activation energy in the stationary state, under potentiostatic control, rendered (a) E(a) ≈ 50-60 kJ mol(-1) over 0.8 V < E < 0.6 V and (b) E(a) ≈ 10 kJ mol(-1) at E = 0.3 V. The former is related to the H(2) adsorption in the vacancies of the surface poisoned by CO and the latter is correlated to the process of proton conductivity in the membrane. The dependence of the period-one oscillations on the temperature yielded a genuine Arrhenius dependence with two E(a) values: (a) E(a) around 70 kJ mol(-1), at high temperatures, and (b) E(a) around 10-15 kJ mol(-1), at lower temperatures. The latter E(a) indicates the presence of protonic mass transport coupled to the essential oscillatory mechanism. These insights point in the right direction to predict spatial couplings between anode and cathode as having the highest strength as well as to speculate the most likely candidates to promote spatial inhomogeneities. © 2011 American Chemical Society

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

Fang, Zongtang; Both, Johan; Li, Shenggang

The heats of formation and the normalized clustering energies (NCEs) for the group 4 and group 6 transition metal oxide (TMO) trimers and tetramers have been calculated by the Feller-Peterson-Dixon (FPD) method. The heats of formation predicted by the FPD method do not differ much from those previously derived from the NCEs at the CCSD(T)/aT level except for the CrO3 nanoclusters. New and improved heats of formation for Cr3O9 and Cr4O12 were obtained using PW91 orbitals instead of Hartree-Fock (HF) orbitals. Diffuse functions are necessary to predict accurate heats of formation. The fluoride affinities (FAs) are calculated with the CCSD(T)more » method. The relative energies (REs) of different isomers, NCEs, electron affinities (EAs), and FAs of (MO2)n ( M = Ti, Zr, Hf, n = 1 – 4 ) and (MO3)n ( M = Cr, Mo, W, n = 1 – 3) clusters have been benchmarked with 55 exchange-correlation DFT functionals including both pure and hybrid types. The absolute errors of the DFT results are mostly less than ±10 kcal/mol for the NCEs and the EAs, and less than ±15 kcal/mol for the FAs. Hybrid functionals usually perform better than the pure functionals for the REs and NCEs. The performance of the two types of functionals in predicting EAs and FAs is comparable. The B1B95 and PBE1PBE functionals provide reliable energetic properties for most isomers. Long range corrected pure functionals usually give poor FAs. The standard deviation of the absolute error is always close to the mean errors and the probability distributions of the DFT errors are often not Gaussian (normal). The breadth of the distribution of errors and the maximum probability are dependent on the energy property and the isomer.« less

A GIS tool for modelling annual diffuse infiltration on a plot scale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

España, Salvador; Alcalá, Francisco J.; Vallejos, Ángela; Pulido-Bosch, Antonio

2013-04-01

ArcB is a GIS tool for modelling annual diffuse infiltration (RP) from precipitation (P) on a plot scale that uses ArcObjects as the programming language to incorporate equations and boundary conditions for the water-balance consistency. Because detailed weather, soil, and vegetation data are often missing, ArcB uses well-known non-global models such as Hargreaves for daily potential evapotranspiration and Budyko for annual actual evapotranspiration (EA), as well as the SCS Curve Number procedure for 24-h plot runoff (RO). Annual RP is quantified as the difference in annual P, EA, and RO. Because the use of non-global models for EA may induce suboptimal RP results, ArcB allows corrections of EA estimates by comparisons with data from a reference station. In a semiarid heterogeneous region in south-eastern Spain, the uncertainty of RO and RP was lowered to 4% and 2%, respectively, when correcting EA. ArcObjects is a versatile programming language which allows advanced users to incorporate more complex formulations for more accurate results as detailed data is acquired and to develop routines for calibration when reference data exist.

[Speech perception with electric-acoustic stimulation : Comparison with bilateral cochlear implant users in different noise conditions].

PubMed

Rader, T

2015-02-01

Cochlear implantation with the aim of hearing preservation for combined electric-acoustic stimulation (EAS) is the therapy of choice for patients with residual low-frequency hearing. Preserved residual acoustic hearing has a positive effect on speech intelligibility in difficult noise conditions. The goal of this study was to assess speech reception thresholds in various complex noise conditions for patients with EAS in comparison with patients using bilateral cochlear implants (CI). Speech perception in noise was measured for bilateral CI and EAS patient groups. A total of 22 listeners with normal hearing served as a control group. Speech reception thresholds (SRT) were measured using a closed-set sentence matrix test. Speech was presented with a single source in frontal position; noise was presented in frontal position or in a multisource noise field (MSNF) consisting of a four-loudspeaker array with independent noise sources. Modulated speech-simulating noise and pseudocontinuous noise served respectively as interference signal with different temporal characteristics. The average SRTs in the EAS group were significantly better in all test conditions than those of the group with bilateral CI. Both user groups showed significant improvement in the MSNF condition compared with the frontal noise condition as a result of bilateral interaction. The normal-hearing control group was able to use short temporal gaps in modulated noise to improve speech perception in noise (gap listening). This effect was absent in both implanted user groups. Patients with combined EAS in one ear and a hearing aid in the contralateral ear show significantly improved speech perception in complex noise conditions compared with bilateral CI recipients.

Second order Møller-Plesset and coupled cluster singles and doubles methods with complex basis functions for resonances in electron-molecule scattering

DOE PAGES

White, Alec F.; Epifanovsky, Evgeny; McCurdy, C. William; ...

2017-06-21

The method of complex basis functions is applied to molecular resonances at correlated levels of theory. Møller-Plesset perturbation theory at second order and equation-of-motion electron attachment coupled-cluster singles and doubles (EOM-EA-CCSD) methods based on a non-Hermitian self-consistent-field reference are used to compute accurate Siegert energies for shape resonances in small molecules including N 2 - , CO - , CO 2 - , and CH 2 O - . Analytic continuation of complex θ-trajectories is used to compute Siegert energies, and the θ-trajectories of energy differences are found to yield more consistent results than those of total energies.more » Furthermore, the ability of such methods to accurately compute complex potential energy surfaces is investigated, and the possibility of using EOM-EA-CCSD for Feshbach resonances is explored in the context of e-helium scattering.« less

Second order Møller-Plesset and coupled cluster singles and doubles methods with complex basis functions for resonances in electron-molecule scattering

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

White, Alec F.; Epifanovsky, Evgeny; McCurdy, C. William

The method of complex basis functions is applied to molecular resonances at correlated levels of theory. Møller-Plesset perturbation theory at second order and equation-of-motion electron attachment coupled-cluster singles and doubles (EOM-EA-CCSD) methods based on a non-Hermitian self-consistent-field reference are used to compute accurate Siegert energies for shape resonances in small molecules including N 2 - , CO - , CO 2 - , and CH 2 O - . Analytic continuation of complex θ-trajectories is used to compute Siegert energies, and the θ-trajectories of energy differences are found to yield more consistent results than those of total energies.more » Furthermore, the ability of such methods to accurately compute complex potential energy surfaces is investigated, and the possibility of using EOM-EA-CCSD for Feshbach resonances is explored in the context of e-helium scattering.« less

Interactions across Multiple Stimulus Dimensions in Primary Auditory Cortex.

PubMed

Sloas, David C; Zhuo, Ran; Xue, Hongbo; Chambers, Anna R; Kolaczyk, Eric; Polley, Daniel B; Sen, Kamal

2016-01-01

Although sensory cortex is thought to be important for the perception of complex objects, its specific role in representing complex stimuli remains unknown. Complex objects are rich in information along multiple stimulus dimensions. The position of cortex in the sensory hierarchy suggests that cortical neurons may integrate across these dimensions to form a more gestalt representation of auditory objects. Yet, studies of cortical neurons typically explore single or few dimensions due to the difficulty of determining optimal stimuli in a high dimensional stimulus space. Evolutionary algorithms (EAs) provide a potentially powerful approach for exploring multidimensional stimulus spaces based on real-time spike feedback, but two important issues arise in their application. First, it is unclear whether it is necessary to characterize cortical responses to multidimensional stimuli or whether it suffices to characterize cortical responses to a single dimension at a time. Second, quantitative methods for analyzing complex multidimensional data from an EA are lacking. Here, we apply a statistical method for nonlinear regression, the generalized additive model (GAM), to address these issues. The GAM quantitatively describes the dependence between neural response and all stimulus dimensions. We find that auditory cortical neurons in mice are sensitive to interactions across dimensions. These interactions are diverse across the population, indicating significant integration across stimulus dimensions in auditory cortex. This result strongly motivates using multidimensional stimuli in auditory cortex. Together, the EA and the GAM provide a novel quantitative paradigm for investigating neural coding of complex multidimensional stimuli in auditory and other sensory cortices.

Trans-ethnic Meta-analysis and Functional Annotation Illuminates the Genetic Architecture of Fasting Glucose and Insulin.

PubMed

Liu, Ching-Ti; Raghavan, Sridharan; Maruthur, Nisa; Kabagambe, Edmond Kato; Hong, Jaeyoung; Ng, Maggie C Y; Hivert, Marie-France; Lu, Yingchang; An, Ping; Bentley, Amy R; Drolet, Anne M; Gaulton, Kyle J; Guo, Xiuqing; Armstrong, Loren L; Irvin, Marguerite R; Li, Man; Lipovich, Leonard; Rybin, Denis V; Taylor, Kent D; Agyemang, Charles; Palmer, Nicholette D; Cade, Brian E; Chen, Wei-Min; Dauriz, Marco; Delaney, Joseph A C; Edwards, Todd L; Evans, Daniel S; Evans, Michele K; Lange, Leslie A; Leong, Aaron; Liu, Jingmin; Liu, Yongmei; Nayak, Uma; Patel, Sanjay R; Porneala, Bianca C; Rasmussen-Torvik, Laura J; Snijder, Marieke B; Stallings, Sarah C; Tanaka, Toshiko; Yanek, Lisa R; Zhao, Wei; Becker, Diane M; Bielak, Lawrence F; Biggs, Mary L; Bottinger, Erwin P; Bowden, Donald W; Chen, Guanjie; Correa, Adolfo; Couper, David J; Crawford, Dana C; Cushman, Mary; Eicher, John D; Fornage, Myriam; Franceschini, Nora; Fu, Yi-Ping; Goodarzi, Mark O; Gottesman, Omri; Hara, Kazuo; Harris, Tamara B; Jensen, Richard A; Johnson, Andrew D; Jhun, Min A; Karter, Andrew J; Keller, Margaux F; Kho, Abel N; Kizer, Jorge R; Krauss, Ronald M; Langefeld, Carl D; Li, Xiaohui; Liang, Jingling; Liu, Simin; Lowe, William L; Mosley, Thomas H; North, Kari E; Pacheco, Jennifer A; Peyser, Patricia A; Patrick, Alan L; Rice, Kenneth M; Selvin, Elizabeth; Sims, Mario; Smith, Jennifer A; Tajuddin, Salman M; Vaidya, Dhananjay; Wren, Mary P; Yao, Jie; Zhu, Xiaofeng; Ziegler, Julie T; Zmuda, Joseph M; Zonderman, Alan B; Zwinderman, Aeilko H; Adeyemo, Adebowale; Boerwinkle, Eric; Ferrucci, Luigi; Hayes, M Geoffrey; Kardia, Sharon L R; Miljkovic, Iva; Pankow, James S; Rotimi, Charles N; Sale, Michele M; Wagenknecht, Lynne E; Arnett, Donna K; Chen, Yii-Der Ida; Nalls, Michael A; Province, Michael A; Kao, W H Linda; Siscovick, David S; Psaty, Bruce M; Wilson, James G; Loos, Ruth J F; Dupuis, Josée; Rich, Stephen S; Florez, Jose C; Rotter, Jerome I; Morris, Andrew P; Meigs, James B

2016-07-07

Knowledge of the genetic basis of the type 2 diabetes (T2D)-related quantitative traits fasting glucose (FG) and insulin (FI) in African ancestry (AA) individuals has been limited. In non-diabetic subjects of AA (n = 20,209) and European ancestry (EA; n = 57,292), we performed trans-ethnic (AA+EA) fine-mapping of 54 established EA FG or FI loci with detailed functional annotation, assessed their relevance in AA individuals, and sought previously undescribed loci through trans-ethnic (AA+EA) meta-analysis. We narrowed credible sets of variants driving association signals for 22/54 EA-associated loci; 18/22 credible sets overlapped with active islet-specific enhancers or transcription factor (TF) binding sites, and 21/22 contained at least one TF motif. Of the 54 EA-associated loci, 23 were shared between EA and AA. Replication with an additional 10,096 AA individuals identified two previously undescribed FI loci, chrX FAM133A (rs213676) and chr5 PELO (rs6450057). Trans-ethnic analyses with regulatory annotation illuminate the genetic architecture of glycemic traits and suggest gene regulation as a target to advance precision medicine for T2D. Our approach to utilize state-of-the-art functional annotation and implement trans-ethnic association analysis for discovery and fine-mapping offers a framework for further follow-up and characterization of GWAS signals of complex trait loci. Copyright © 2016 American Society of Human Genetics. All rights reserved.

Critical concepts in elder abuse research.

PubMed

Goergen, Thomas; Beaulieu, Marie

2013-08-01

This paper identifies core elements in principal definitions of elder abuse or mistreatment of older adults (EA/MOA) and discusses the relevance of four crucial concepts: age, vulnerability, trust, and power balance in relationships. A critical analysis of selected literature in EA/MOA with a focus on works from the last 10 years. Current definitions of EA/MOA share commonalities regarding an understanding of elder abuse as a status offence, the inclusion of both acts and omissions, and the consideration of multiple levels of behavior and its effects. Definitions differ with regard to aspects as crucial as the intentionality of an abusive action and its actual or potential harmful effects. EA/MOA can be considered as a complex subtype of victimization in later life limited to victim-perpetrator relationships, where the perpetrator has assumed responsibility for the victim, the victim puts trust in the offender, or the role assigned to the offending person creates the perception and expectation that the victim may trust the perpetrator. Vulnerability is identified as a key variable in EA/MOA theory and research. With regard to neglect, the mere possibility of being neglected presupposes a heightened level of vulnerability. Power imbalance often characterizes victim - perpetrator relationships but is not a necessary characteristic of abuse. Research on EA/MOA needs conceptual development. Confining phenomena of EA/MOA to specific relationships and tying them to notions of vulnerability has implications for research design and sampling and points to the limits of population-based victimization surveys.

Classification of Two Class Motor Imagery Tasks Using Hybrid GA-PSO Based K-Means Clustering.

PubMed

Suraj; Tiwari, Purnendu; Ghosh, Subhojit; Sinha, Rakesh Kumar

2015-01-01

Transferring the brain computer interface (BCI) from laboratory condition to meet the real world application needs BCI to be applied asynchronously without any time constraint. High level of dynamism in the electroencephalogram (EEG) signal reasons us to look toward evolutionary algorithm (EA). Motivated by these two facts, in this work a hybrid GA-PSO based K-means clustering technique has been used to distinguish two class motor imagery (MI) tasks. The proposed hybrid GA-PSO based K-means clustering is found to outperform genetic algorithm (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) based K-means clustering techniques in terms of both accuracy and execution time. The lesser execution time of hybrid GA-PSO technique makes it suitable for real time BCI application. Time frequency representation (TFR) techniques have been used to extract the feature of the signal under investigation. TFRs based features are extracted and relying on the concept of event related synchronization (ERD) and desynchronization (ERD) feature vector is formed.

Classification of Two Class Motor Imagery Tasks Using Hybrid GA-PSO Based K-Means Clustering

PubMed Central

Suraj; Tiwari, Purnendu; Ghosh, Subhojit; Sinha, Rakesh Kumar

2015-01-01

Transferring the brain computer interface (BCI) from laboratory condition to meet the real world application needs BCI to be applied asynchronously without any time constraint. High level of dynamism in the electroencephalogram (EEG) signal reasons us to look toward evolutionary algorithm (EA). Motivated by these two facts, in this work a hybrid GA-PSO based K-means clustering technique has been used to distinguish two class motor imagery (MI) tasks. The proposed hybrid GA-PSO based K-means clustering is found to outperform genetic algorithm (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) based K-means clustering techniques in terms of both accuracy and execution time. The lesser execution time of hybrid GA-PSO technique makes it suitable for real time BCI application. Time frequency representation (TFR) techniques have been used to extract the feature of the signal under investigation. TFRs based features are extracted and relying on the concept of event related synchronization (ERD) and desynchronization (ERD) feature vector is formed. PMID:25972896

Density functional theory study on the ionization potentials and electron affinities of thymine-formamide complexes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Haitao; Tang, Ke; Li, Yanmin; Su, Chunfang; Zhou, Zhengyu; Wang, Zhizhong

The effect of hydrogen bond interactions on ionization potentials (IPs) and electron affinities (EAs) of thymine-formamide complexes (T-F) have been investigated employing the density functional theory B3LYP at 6-311++G(d, p) basis set level. All complexes experience a geometrical change on either electron detachment or attachment, and the change might be facilitated or hindered according to the strength of the hydrogen-bonding interaction involved. The strength of hydrogen bonds presents an opposite changing trend on the two processes. A more important role that H-bonding interaction plays in the process of electron attachment than in the process of electron detachment can be seen by a comparison of the IPs and EAs of complexes with that of isolated thymine. Futhermore, the EAs of isolated thymine are in good agreement with the experimental values (AEA is 0.79 eV, VEA is -0.29 eV [Wetmore et al., Chem Phys Lett 2000, 322, 129]). The calculated total NPA charge distributions reveal that nearly all the negative charges locate on thymine monomer in the anions and even in the cationic states, there are a few negative charges on thymine monomer. An analysis of dissociation energies predicts the processes T-F+→ T++ F and T-F- → T- + F to be the most energetically favorable for T-F+ and T-F-, respectively. Content:text/plain; charset="UTF-8"

Analysis of sound absorption performance of an electroacoustic absorber using a vented enclosure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cho, Youngeun; Wang, Semyung; Hyun, Jaeyub; Oh, Seungjae; Goo, Seongyeol

2018-03-01

The sound absorption performance of an electroacoustic absorber (EA) is primarily influenced by the dynamic characteristics of the loudspeaker that acts as the actuator of the EA system. Therefore, the sound absorption performance of the EA is maximum at the resonance frequency of the loudspeaker and tends to degrade in the low-frequency and high-frequency bands based on this resonance frequency. In this study, to adjust the sound absorption performance of the EA system in the low-frequency band of approximately 20-80 Hz, an EA system using a vented enclosure that has previously been used to enhance the radiating sound pressure of a loudspeaker in the low-frequency band, is proposed. To verify the usefulness of the proposed system, two acoustic environments are considered. In the first acoustic environment, the vent of the vented enclosure is connected to an external sound field that is distinct from the sound field coupled to the EA. In this case, the acoustic effect of the vented enclosure on the performance of the EA is analyzed through an analytical approach using dynamic equations and an impedance-based equivalent circuit. Then, it is verified through numerical and experimental approaches. Next, in the second acoustic environment, the vent is connected to the same external sound field as the EA. In this case, the effect of the vented enclosure on the EA is investigated through an analytical approach and finally verified through a numerical approach. As a result, it is confirmed that the characteristics of the sound absorption performances of the proposed EA system using the vented enclosure in the two acoustic environments considered in this study are different from each other in the low-frequency band of approximately 20-80 Hz. Furthermore, several case studies on the change tendency of the performance of the EA using the vented enclosure according to the critical design factors or vent number for the vented enclosure are also investigated. In the future, even if the proposed EA system using a vented enclosure is extended to a large number of arrays required for 3D sound field control, it is expected to be an attractive solution that can contribute to an improvement in low-frequency noise reduction without causing economic and system complexity problems.

Isolation and characterization of new lignin streams derived from extractive-ammonia (EA) pretreatment

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

da Costa Sousa, Leonardo; Foston, Marcus; Bokade, Vijay

One of the key challenges facing lignin conversion to fuels and chemicals is related to the level of carbohydrate and ash impurities found in extracted lignin. Structural modifications of lignin may also occur as a result of biomass pretreatment and harsh lignin extraction protocols. Extractive-Ammonia (EA) is a new pretreatment technology that uses liquid ammonia to cleave lignin–carbohydrate complexes, decrystallize cellulose, solubilize lignin, and selectively extract lignin from lignocellulosic biomass, enabling better utilization of both lignin and carbohydrate components in a biorefinery. The EA-based biorefinery produces two different lignin-rich streams, with different properties, that could potentially be upgraded to fuelsmore » and chemicals using green processes. Here, a water/ethanol-based fractionation method was developed to enrich the ammonia-soluble extractives, resulting in a major product stream containing 92% lignin. Detailed characterization of the various streams resulting from EA treatment, including compositional analysis, structural characterization by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometry, elemental analysis, molecular weight analysis, and thermo-gravimetric analysis provides a broad evaluation of the EA-derived lignin product stream structures and properties, assessing their potential for commercial applications. In conclusion, EA-derived lignins preserve much of lignin's functionality, including the sensitive β-aryl ether units. Furthermore, we observed nitrogen incorporation in the lignin-rich streams, notably due to the presence of hydroxycinnamoyl amides formed during ammonia pretreatment.« less

Non-iterative triple excitations in equation-of-motion coupled-cluster theory for electron attachment with applications to bound and temporary anions.

PubMed

Jagau, Thomas-C

2018-01-14

The impact of residual electron correlation beyond the equation-of-motion coupled-cluster singles and doubles (EOM-CCSD) approximation on positions and widths of electronic resonances is investigated. To establish a method that accomplishes this task in an economical manner, several approaches proposed for the approximate treatment of triple excitations are reviewed with respect to their performance in the electron attachment (EA) variant of EOM-CC theory. The recently introduced EOM-CCSD(T)(a)* method [D. A. Matthews and J. F. Stanton, J. Chem. Phys. 145, 124102 (2016)], which includes non-iterative corrections to the reference and the target states, reliably reproduces vertical attachment energies from EOM-EA-CC calculations with single, double, and full triple excitations in contrast to schemes in which non-iterative corrections are applied only to the target states. Applications of EOM-EA-CCSD(T)(a)* augmented by a complex absorbing potential (CAP) to several temporary anions illustrate that shape resonances are well described by EOM-EA-CCSD, but that residual electron correlation often makes a non-negligible impact on their positions and widths. The positions of Feshbach resonances, on the other hand, are significantly improved when going from CAP-EOM-EA-CCSD to CAP-EOM-EA-CCSD(T)(a)*, but the correct energetic order of the relevant electronic states is still not achieved.

Non-iterative triple excitations in equation-of-motion coupled-cluster theory for electron attachment with applications to bound and temporary anions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jagau, Thomas-C.

2018-01-01

The impact of residual electron correlation beyond the equation-of-motion coupled-cluster singles and doubles (EOM-CCSD) approximation on positions and widths of electronic resonances is investigated. To establish a method that accomplishes this task in an economical manner, several approaches proposed for the approximate treatment of triple excitations are reviewed with respect to their performance in the electron attachment (EA) variant of EOM-CC theory. The recently introduced EOM-CCSD(T)(a)* method [D. A. Matthews and J. F. Stanton, J. Chem. Phys. 145, 124102 (2016)], which includes non-iterative corrections to the reference and the target states, reliably reproduces vertical attachment energies from EOM-EA-CC calculations with single, double, and full triple excitations in contrast to schemes in which non-iterative corrections are applied only to the target states. Applications of EOM-EA-CCSD(T)(a)* augmented by a complex absorbing potential (CAP) to several temporary anions illustrate that shape resonances are well described by EOM-EA-CCSD, but that residual electron correlation often makes a non-negligible impact on their positions and widths. The positions of Feshbach resonances, on the other hand, are significantly improved when going from CAP-EOM-EA-CCSD to CAP-EOM-EA-CCSD(T)(a)*, but the correct energetic order of the relevant electronic states is still not achieved.

Oxygen atom transfer reactions of iridium and osmium complexes: theoretical study of characteristic features and significantly large differences between these two complexes.

PubMed

Ishikawa, Atsushi; Nakao, Yoshihide; Sato, Hirofumi; Sakaki, Shigeyoshi

2009-09-07

Oxygen atom transfer reaction between ML(3)=O and ML(3) (L = 2,4,6-trimethylphenyl (Mes) for M = Ir and L = 2,6-diisopropylphenylimide (NAr) for M = Os) was theoretically investigated by DFT method. The optimized geometry of (Mes)(3)Ir-O-Ir(Mes)(3) agrees well with the experimental one, although those of (CH(3))(3)Ir-O-Ir(CH(3))(3) and Ph(3)Ir-O-IrPh(3) are much different from the experimental one of the Mes complex. These results indicate that the bulky ligand plays important roles to determine geometry of the mu-oxo dinuclear Ir complex. Theoretical study of the real systems presents clear pictures of these oxygen atom transfer reactions, as follows: In the Ir reaction system, (i) the mu-oxo bridged dinuclear complex is more stable than the infinite separation system in potential energy surface, indicating this is incomplete oxygen atom transfer reaction which does not occur at very low temperature, (ii) unsymmetrical transition state is newly found, in which one Ir-O distance is longer than the other one, (iii) unsymmetrical local minimum is also newly found between the transition state and the infinite separation system, and (iv) activation barrier (E(a)) is very small. In the Os reaction system, (v) the transition state is symmetrical, while no intermediate is observed unlike the Ir reaction system, and (vi) E(a) is very large. These results are consistent with the experimental results that the reaction rapidly occurs in the Ir system but very slowly in the Os system, and that the mu-oxo bridged dinuclear intermediate is detected in the Ir system but not in the Os system. To elucidate the reasons of these differences between Ir and Os systems, the E(a) value is decomposed into the nuclear and electronic factors. The former is the energy necessary to distort ML(3) and ML(3)=O moieties from their equilibrium geometries to those in the transition state. The latter depends on donor-acceptor interaction between ML(3)=O and ML(3). The nuclear factor is much larger in the Os system than in the Ir system and it contributes to about 70% of the difference in E(a). The energy gap between the donor orbital of ML(3) and the acceptor orbital of ML(3)=O is much larger in the Os system than in the Ir system, which also contributes to the lower E(a) value of the Ir system than that of the Os system.

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

Hu, L; Yin, F; Cai, J

Purpose: To develop a methodology of constructing physiological-based virtual thorax phantom based on hyperpolarized (HP) gas tagging MRI for evaluating deformable image registration (DIR). Methods: Three healthy subjects were imaged at both the end-of-inhalation (EOI) and the end-of-exhalation (EOE) phases using a high-resolution (2.5mm isovoxel) 3D proton MRI, as well as a hybrid MRI which combines HP gas tagging MRI and a low-resolution (4.5mm isovoxel) proton MRI. A sparse tagging displacement vector field (tDVF) was derived from the HP gas tagging MRI by tracking the displacement of tagging grids between EOI and EOE. Using the tDVF and the high-resolution MRmore » images, we determined the motion model of the entire thorax in the following two steps: 1) the DVF inside of lungs was estimated based on the sparse tDVF using a novel multi-step natural neighbor interpolation method; 2) the DVF outside of lungs was estimated from the DIR between the EOI and EOE images (Velocity AI). The derived motion model was then applied to the high-resolution EOI image to create a deformed EOE image, forming the virtual phantom where the motion model provides the ground truth of deformation. Five DIR methods were evaluated using the developed virtual phantom. Errors in DVF magnitude (Em) and angle (Ea) were determined and compared for each DIR method. Results: Among the five DIR methods, free form deformation produced DVF results that are most closely resembling the ground truth (Em=1.04mm, Ea=6.63°). The two DIR methods based on B-spline produced comparable results (Em=2.04mm, Ea=13.66°; and Em =2.62mm, Ea=17.67°), and the two optical-flow methods produced least accurate results (Em=7.8mm; Ea=53.04°; Em=4.45mm, Ea=31.02°). Conclusion: A methodology for constructing physiological-based virtual thorax phantom based on HP gas tagging MRI has been developed. Initial evaluation demonstrated its potential as an effective tool for robust evaluation of DIR in the lung.« less

Gold nanoparticles interacting with β-cyclodextrin-phenylethylamine inclusion complex: a ternary system for photothermal drug release.

PubMed

Sierpe, Rodrigo; Lang, Erika; Jara, Paul; Guerrero, Ariel R; Chornik, Boris; Kogan, Marcelo J; Yutronic, Nicolás

2015-07-22

We report the synthesis of a 1:1 β-cyclodextrin-phenylethylamine (βCD-PhEA) inclusion complex (IC) and the adhesion of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) onto microcrystals of this complex, which forms a ternary system. The formation of the IC was confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction and NMR analyses ((1)H and ROESY). The stability constant of the IC (760 M(-1)) was determined using the phase solubility method. The adhesion of AuNPs was obtained using the magnetron sputtering technique, and the presence of AuNPs was confirmed using UV-vis spectroscopy (surface plasmon resonance effect), which showed an absorbance at 533 nm. The powder X-ray diffractograms of βCD-PhEA were similar to those of the crystals decorated with AuNPs. A comparison of the one- and two-dimensional NMR spectra of the IC with and without AuNPs suggests partial displacement of the guest to the outside of the βCD due to attraction toward AuNPs, a characteristic tropism effect. The size, morphology, and distribution of the AuNPs were analyzed using TEM and SEM. The average size of the AuNPs was 14 nm. Changes in the IR and Raman spectra were attributed to the formation of the complex and to the specific interactions of this group with the AuNPs. Laser irradiation assays show that the ternary system βCD-PhEA-AuNPs in solution enables the release of the guest.

Evaluation of the effectiveness of toe board energy-absorbing material for foot, ankle, and lower leg injury reduction.

PubMed

Patalak, John P; Stitzel, Joel D

2018-02-17

Since 2000, numerous improvements have been made to the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, Incorporated (NASCAR®) driver restraint system, resulting in improved crash protection for motorsports drivers. Advancements have included seats, head and neck restraints (HNRs), seat belt restraint systems, driver helmets, and others. These enhancements have increased protection for drivers from severe crash loading. Extending protection to the driver's extremities remains challenging. Though the drivers' legs are well contained for lateral and vertical crashes, they remain largely unrestrained in frontal and frontal oblique crashes. Sled testing was conducted for the evaluation of an energy-absorbing (EA) toe board material to be used as a countermeasure for leg and foot injuries. Testing included baseline rigid toe boards, tests with EA material-covered toe boards, and pretest positioning of the 50th percentile male frontal Hybrid III anthropomorphic test device (ATD) lower extremities. ATD leg and foot instrumentation included foot acceleration and tibia forces and moments. The sled test data were evaluated using established injury criteria for tibial plateau fractures, leg shaft fractures, and calcaneus, talus, ankle, and midfoot fractures. A polyurethane EA foam was found to be effective in limiting axial tibia force and foot accelerations when subjected to frontal impacts using the NASCAR motorsport restraint system.

Comparative analysis of the H 2 passivation of interface defects at the {(100) Si}/{SiO 2} interface using electron spin resonance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stesmans, A.

1996-01-01

The passivation with molecular hydrogen in the range 213-234°C of the interfacial Pb0 and Pb1 defects in {(100) Si}/{SiO 2}, thermally grown at low temperature (<750°C), has been analyzed by K-band electron spin resonance. The passivation kinetics are found to be well described by the same defect-H 2 reaction limited model applying to the interfacial Pb defect (∘SiSi 3) in {(111) Si}/{SiO 2} grown at 850°C. However, unlike Pb, that was typified by a single-valued activation energy for passivation Ea = 1.66 eV, both Pb0 and Pb1 are found to exhibit a Gaussian spread σEa ˜ 0.15 eV around their respective meanEa values, deduced as 1.51 and 1.57 ± 0.3 eV. The similar passivation kinetics are in line with assigning the Pb0 and Pb1 defects, like Pb, to an interfacial unpaired sp3 Si hybrid. However, as there is no fundamental difference between Pb0 and Pb1 regarding passivation in H 2, more specfic identification of Pb with either Pb0 or Pb1 , if any, cannot be concluded.

Genetic Variations in SLCO Transporter Genes Contributing to Racial Disparity in Aggressiveness of Prostate Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-01

situ RNA hybridization staining of a TMA set and tissue sections from Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) and PCaP, respectively; 2) completion of...Facility at Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI). Three Subtasks were proposed: Subtask 1 (months 1-3): Obtain approval for IRB protocol and request...Resource Network (PRN) at Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI). The predominantly expressed SLCO transporters in AA or EA, and the transporters with

Critical education in resource and environmental management: Learning and empowerment for a sustainable future

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

Diduck, A.

1999-10-01

Changing rom current patterns of resource use to a sustainable and equitable economy is a complex and intractable problem. This paper suggests that critical education may form part of the solution. Critical environmental assessment (EA) education, the model explored in this paper, offers a tool for resource and environmental managers to use in managing public involvement processes. This model challenges current patterns of resource use and addresses criticisms of public involvement processes. Critical EA education, involving both cognitive development and personal empowerment, focuses on critical intelligence, problem solving and social action. The concept is offered as a means to facilitatemore » and improve public involvement and, thereby, empower local communities to take greater control of resource use decisions affecting their lives. Positive implications of critical EA education for change, complexity, uncertainty and conflict, which are four enduring themes in resource and environmental management, are discussed in the paper. The implications include: cognitive development and personal empowerment at the level of local resource communities; simplification of the often complex discourse encountered in resource management; reduction in feelings of powerlessness often experienced by members of the public in environmental assessment scenarios; a reduction of ignorance and indeterminacy regarding resource management issues; conflict resolution at the cognitive level; and, clarification of the opposing values, interests or actions at the heart of a conflict.« less

Humoral immune response in infectious mononucleosis. Late emergence of anti-EA(R) and the effects of corticosteroid therapy.

PubMed

Fleisher, G R; Collins, M; Fager, S

1985-11-01

The antibody response to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antigens in patients with infectious mononucleosis (IM) was studied to assess antibody appearance to the restricted (R) component of the early antigen (EA) complex and to determine the effect of corticosteroids on all aspects of the humoral immune response. Sixty college students with heterophil-positive clinical IM, confirmed by EBV-specific serology, were followed for a period of 4-26 weeks, Half received prednisone for six days, and the remainder received no corticosteroid therapy. Regardless of therapy, 48% of the patients developed anti-EA(R) antibodies. The response to other antigens was similar in both groups with the exception that antibodies to the EB-associated nuclear antigen (EBNA) developed later during convalescence and at lower titers in the corticosteroid-treated group. We conclude that 1) anti-EA(R) antibodies develop with considerable frequency following IM and are not a marker, as previously proposed, of unusually severe disease, and 2) corticosteroid therapy may retard the formation of anti-EBNA antibodies but it does not otherwise influence the humoral immune response to EBV.

Improved Multi-Axial, Temperature and Time Dependent (MATT) Failure Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Richardson, D. E.; Anderson, G. L.; Macon, D. J.

2002-01-01

An extensive effort has recently been completed by the Space Shuttle's Reusable Solid Rocket Motor (RSRM) nozzle program to completely characterize the effects of multi-axial loading, temperature and time on the failure characteristics of three filled epoxy adhesives (TIGA 321, EA913NA, EA946). As part of this effort, a single general failure criterion was developed that accounted for these effects simultaneously. This model was named the Multi- Axial, Temperature, and Time Dependent or MATT failure criterion. Due to the intricate nature of the failure criterion, some parameters were required to be calculated using complex equations or numerical methods. This paper documents some simple but accurate modifications to the failure criterion to allow for calculations of failure conditions without complex equations or numerical techniques.

Oxidovanadium(IV) complexes involving dehydroacetic acid and β-diketones of bioinorganic and medicinal relevance: Their synthesis, characterization, thermal behavior and DFT aspects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maurya, R. C.; Malik, B. A.; Mir, J. M.; Vishwakarma, P. K.

2015-03-01

Six new mixed-ligand complexes of oxidovanadium(IV) of the general composition [VO(dha)(L)(H2O)], where dhaH = dehydroacetic acid, LH = β-diketones, viz., acetoacetanilide (aaaH), o-acetoacetotoluidide (o-aatdH), o-acetoacetanisidide (o-aansH), acetylacetone (acacH), methyl acetoacetate (macacH) or ethyl acetoacetate (eacacH) have been synthesized by the reaction of VOSO4ṡ5H2O and the ligands given above in aqueous-ethanol medium. The resulting complexes have been characterized on the basis of elemental analyses, vanadium determination, molar conductance and magnetic measurements, mass spectrometry, thermogravimetric analysis, infrared and electron spin resonance spectral studies. The thermal decomposition processes of two representative complexes are discussed and the order of reaction (n) and the activation energy (Ea) for the particular decomposition steps have been calculated from thermogravimetric (TG) curve. Geometry optimizations were performed with the Gaussian 09 software package by using density functional theory (DFT) methods with Becke-3-Lee-Yang-Parr (B3LYP) hybrid exchange-correlation functional and the standard LANL2 MB basis set for dhaH and its complex [VO(dha)(acac)(H2O)]. Molecular surface electrostatic potentials (MSEP), vibrational frequency calculations, bond lengths, bond angles, dihedral angles, natural population analysis and calculations of molecular energies, HOMO and LUMO were made. No imaginary frequency was found in the optimized model compounds and hence ensures that the molecule is in the lowest point of the potential energy surface, that is, a energy minimum. Finally calculated results were applied to simulated Infrared spectra of the title compound which show good agreement with observed spectra. Based on experimental and theoretical data, suitable trans-octahedral structures have been proposed for these complexes.

Excitation spectra of aromatic molecules within a real-space G W -BSE formalism: Role of self-consistency and vertex corrections

DOE PAGES

Hung, Linda; da Jornada, Felipe H.; Souto-Casares, Jaime; ...

2016-08-15

Here, we present first-principles calculations on the vertical ionization potentials (IPs), electron affinities (EAs), and singlet excitation energies on an aromatic-molecule test set (benzene, thiophene, 1,2,5-thiadiazole, naphthalene, benzothiazole, and tetrathiafulvalene) within the GW and Bethe-Salpeter equation (BSE) formalisms. Our computational framework, which employs a real-space basis for ground-state and a transition-space basis for excited-state calculations, is well suited for high-accuracy calculations on molecules, as we show by comparing against G0W0 calculations within a plane-wave-basis formalism. We then generalize our framework to test variants of the GW approximation that include a local density approximation (LDA)–derived vertex function (Γ LDA ) andmore » quasiparticle-self-consistent (QS) iterations. We find that Γ LDA and quasiparticle self-consistency shift IPs and EAs by roughly the same magnitude, but with opposite sign for IPs and the same sign for EAs. G0W0 and QS GWΓ LDA are more accurate for IPs, while G 0W 0Γ LDA and QS GW are best for EAs. For optical excitations, we find that perturbative GW-BSE underestimates the singlet excitation energy, while self-consistent GW-BSE results in good agreement with previous best-estimate values for both valence and Rydberg excitations. Finally, our work suggests that a hybrid approach, in which G0W0 energies are used for occupied orbitals and G0W0Γ LDA for unoccupied orbitals, also yields optical excitation energies in good agreement with experiment but at a smaller computational cost.« less

Enhancing the response rate of strand displacement-based electrochemical aptamer sensors using bivalent binding aptamer-cDNA probes.

PubMed

Zhang, Ziping; Tao, Cancan; Yin, Jungang; Wang, Yunhui; Li, Yanshen

2018-04-30

Electrochemical aptamer (EA) sensors based on aptamer-cDNA duplex probes (cDNA: complementary DNA) and target induced strand displacement (TISD) recognition are sensitive, selective and capable of detecting a wide variety of target analytes. While substantial research efforts have focused on engineering of new signaling mechanisms for the improvement of sensor sensitivity, little attention was paid to the enhancement of sensor response rate. Typically, the previous TISD based EA sensors exhibited relatively long response times larger than 30min, which mainly resulted from the suboptimal aptamer-cDNA probe structure in which most of aptamer bases were paired to the cDNA bases. In an effort to improve the response rate of this type of sensors, we report here the rational engineering of a quickly responsive and sensitive aptamer-cDNA probe by employing the conception of bivalent interaction in supramolecular chemistry. We design a bivalent cDNA strand through linking two short monovalent cDNA sequences, and it is simultaneously hybridized to two electrode-immobilized aptamer probes to form a bivalent binding (BB) aptamer-cDNA probe. This class of BB probe possesses the advantages of less aptamer bases paired to the cDNA bases for quick response rate and good structural stability for high sensor sensitivity. By use of the rationally designed BB aptamer-cDNA probe, a TISD based EA sensor against ATP with significantly enhanced response rate (with a displacement equilibrium time of 4min) and high sensitivity was successfully constructed. We believe that our BB probe conception will help guide future designs and applications of TISD based EA sensors. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Excitation spectra of aromatic molecules within a real-space G W -BSE formalism: Role of self-consistency and vertex corrections

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

Hung, Linda; da Jornada, Felipe H.; Souto-Casares, Jaime

Here, we present first-principles calculations on the vertical ionization potentials (IPs), electron affinities (EAs), and singlet excitation energies on an aromatic-molecule test set (benzene, thiophene, 1,2,5-thiadiazole, naphthalene, benzothiazole, and tetrathiafulvalene) within the GW and Bethe-Salpeter equation (BSE) formalisms. Our computational framework, which employs a real-space basis for ground-state and a transition-space basis for excited-state calculations, is well suited for high-accuracy calculations on molecules, as we show by comparing against G0W0 calculations within a plane-wave-basis formalism. We then generalize our framework to test variants of the GW approximation that include a local density approximation (LDA)–derived vertex function (Γ LDA ) andmore » quasiparticle-self-consistent (QS) iterations. We find that Γ LDA and quasiparticle self-consistency shift IPs and EAs by roughly the same magnitude, but with opposite sign for IPs and the same sign for EAs. G0W0 and QS GWΓ LDA are more accurate for IPs, while G 0W 0Γ LDA and QS GW are best for EAs. For optical excitations, we find that perturbative GW-BSE underestimates the singlet excitation energy, while self-consistent GW-BSE results in good agreement with previous best-estimate values for both valence and Rydberg excitations. Finally, our work suggests that a hybrid approach, in which G0W0 energies are used for occupied orbitals and G0W0Γ LDA for unoccupied orbitals, also yields optical excitation energies in good agreement with experiment but at a smaller computational cost.« less

Astroparticle Physics: Detectors for Cosmic Rays

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

Salazar, Humberto; Villasenor, Luis

2006-09-25

We describe the work that we have done over the last decade to design and construct instruments to measure properties of cosmic rays in Mexico. We describe the measurement of the muon lifetime and the ratio of positive to negative muons in the natural background of cosmic ray muons at 2000 m.a.s.l. Next we describe the detection of decaying and crossing muons in a water Cherenkov detector as well as a technique to separate isolated particles. We also describe the detection of isolated muons and electrons in a liquid scintillator detector and their separation. Next we describe the detection ofmore » extensive air showers (EAS) with a hybrid detector array consisting of water Cherenkov and liquid scintillator detectors, located at the campus of the University of Puebla. Finally we describe work in progress to detect EAS at 4600 m.a.s.l. with a water Cherenkov detector array and a fluorescence telescope at the Sierra Negra mountain.« less

An impatient evolutionary algorithm with probabilistic tabu search for unified solution of some NP-hard problems in graph and set theory via clique finding.

PubMed

Guturu, Parthasarathy; Dantu, Ram

2008-06-01

Many graph- and set-theoretic problems, because of their tremendous application potential and theoretical appeal, have been well investigated by the researchers in complexity theory and were found to be NP-hard. Since the combinatorial complexity of these problems does not permit exhaustive searches for optimal solutions, only near-optimal solutions can be explored using either various problem-specific heuristic strategies or metaheuristic global-optimization methods, such as simulated annealing, genetic algorithms, etc. In this paper, we propose a unified evolutionary algorithm (EA) to the problems of maximum clique finding, maximum independent set, minimum vertex cover, subgraph and double subgraph isomorphism, set packing, set partitioning, and set cover. In the proposed approach, we first map these problems onto the maximum clique-finding problem (MCP), which is later solved using an evolutionary strategy. The proposed impatient EA with probabilistic tabu search (IEA-PTS) for the MCP integrates the best features of earlier successful approaches with a number of new heuristics that we developed to yield a performance that advances the state of the art in EAs for the exploration of the maximum cliques in a graph. Results of experimentation with the 37 DIMACS benchmark graphs and comparative analyses with six state-of-the-art algorithms, including two from the smaller EA community and four from the larger metaheuristics community, indicate that the IEA-PTS outperforms the EAs with respect to a Pareto-lexicographic ranking criterion and offers competitive performance on some graph instances when individually compared to the other heuristic algorithms. It has also successfully set a new benchmark on one graph instance. On another benchmark suite called Benchmarks with Hidden Optimal Solutions, IEA-PTS ranks second, after a very recent algorithm called COVER, among its peers that have experimented with this suite.

Applications of Evolutionary Algorithms to Electromagnetic Materials Characterization and Design Problems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frasch, Jonathan Lemoine

Determining the electrical permittivity and magnetic permeability of materials is an important task in electromagnetics research. The method using reflection and transmission scattering parameters to determine these constants has been widely employed for many years, ever since the work of Nicolson, Ross, and Weir in the 1970's. For general materials that are homogeneous, linear, and isotropic, the method they developed (the NRW method) works very well and provides an analytical solution. For materials which possess a metal backing or are applied as a coating to a metal surface, it can be difficult or even impossible to obtain a transmission measurement, especially when the coating is thin. In such a circumstance, it is common to resort to a method which uses two reflection type measurements. There are several such methods for free-space measurements, using multiple angles or polarizations for example. For waveguide measurements, obtaining two independent sources of information from which to extract two complex parameters can be a challenge. This dissertation covers three different topics. Two of these involve different techniques to characterize conductor-backed materials, and the third proposes a method for designing synthetic validation standards for use with standard NRW measurements. All three of these topics utilize modal expansions of electric and magnetic fields to analyze propagation in stepped rectangular waveguides. Two of the projects utilize evolutionary algorithms (EA) to design waveguide structures. These algorithms were developed specifically for these projects and utilize fairly recent innovations within the optimization community. The first characterization technique uses two different versions of a single vertical step in the waveguide. Samples to be tested lie inside the steps with the conductor reflection plane behind them. If the two reflection measurements are truly independent it should be possible to recover the values of two complex parameters, but success of the technique ultimately depends upon how independent the measurements actually are. Next, a method is demonstrated for developing synthetic verification standards. These standards are created from combinations of vertical steps formed from a single piece of metal or metal coated plastic. These fully insertable structures mimic some of the measurement characteristics of typical lab specimens and thus provide a useful tool for verifying the proper calibration and function of the experimental setup used for NRW characterization. These standards are designed with the use an EA, which compares possible designs based on the quality of the match with target parameter values. Several examples have been fabricated and tested, and the design specifications and results are presented. Finally, a second characterization technique is considered. This method uses multiple vertical steps to construct an error reducing structure within the waveguide, which allows parameters to be reliably extracted using both reflection and transmission measurements. These structures are designed with an EA, measuring fitness by the reduction of error in the extracted parameters. An additional EA is used to assist in the extraction of the material parameters supplying better initial guesses to a secant method solver. This hybrid approach greatly increases the stability of the solver and increases the speed of parameter extractions. Several designs have been identified and are analyzed.

Combined electric and acoustic hearing performance with Zebra® speech processor: speech reception, place, and temporal coding evaluation.

PubMed

Vaerenberg, Bart; Péan, Vincent; Lesbros, Guillaume; De Ceulaer, Geert; Schauwers, Karen; Daemers, Kristin; Gnansia, Dan; Govaerts, Paul J

2013-06-01

To assess the auditory performance of Digisonic(®) cochlear implant users with electric stimulation (ES) and electro-acoustic stimulation (EAS) with special attention to the processing of low-frequency temporal fine structure. Six patients implanted with a Digisonic(®) SP implant and showing low-frequency residual hearing were fitted with the Zebra(®) speech processor providing both electric and acoustic stimulation. Assessment consisted of monosyllabic speech identification tests in quiet and in noise at different presentation levels, and a pitch discrimination task using harmonic and disharmonic intonating complex sounds ( Vaerenberg et al., 2011 ). These tests investigate place and time coding through pitch discrimination. All tasks were performed with ES only and with EAS. Speech results in noise showed significant improvement with EAS when compared to ES. Whereas EAS did not yield better results in the harmonic intonation test, the improvements in the disharmonic intonation test were remarkable, suggesting better coding of pitch cues requiring phase locking. These results suggest that patients with residual hearing in the low-frequency range still have good phase-locking capacities, allowing them to process fine temporal information. ES relies mainly on place coding but provides poor low-frequency temporal coding, whereas EAS also provides temporal coding in the low-frequency range. Patients with residual phase-locking capacities can make use of these cues.

A S-Layer Protein of Bacillus anthracis as a Building Block for Functional Protein Arrays by In Vitro Self-Assembly.

PubMed

Wang, Xu-Ying; Wang, Dian-Bing; Zhang, Zhi-Ping; Bi, Li-Jun; Zhang, Ji-Bin; Ding, Wei; Zhang, Xian-En

2015-11-18

S-layer proteins create a cell-surface layer architecture in both bacteria and archaea. Because S-layer proteins self-assemble into a native-like S-layer crystalline structure in vitro, they are attractive building blocks in nanotechnology. Here, the potential use of the S-layer protein EA1 from Bacillus anthracis in constructing a functional nanostructure is investigated, and apply this nanostructure in a proof-of-principle study for serological diagnosis of anthrax. EA1 is genetically fused with methyl parathion hydrolase (MPH), to degrade methyl parathion and provide a label for signal amplification. EA1 not only serves as a nanocarrier, but also as a specific antigen to capture anthrax-specific antibodies. As results, purified EA1-MPH forms a single layer of crystalline nanostructure through self-assembly. Our chimeric nanocatalyst greatly improves enzymatic stability of MPH. When applied to the detection of anthrax-specific antibodies in serum samples, the detection of our EA1-MPH nanostructure is nearly 300 times more sensitive than that of the unassembled complex. Together, it is shown that it is possible to build a functional and highly sensitive nanosensor based on S-layer protein. In conclusion, our present study should serve as a model for the development of other multifunctional nanomaterials using S-layer proteins. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

PROGRAM-ORIENTED INFORMATION--A MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS COMPLEX FOR STATE EDUCATION AGENCIES. PART II, MANUAL OF ACCOUNTING AND RELATED FINANCIAL PROCEDURES.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

FRIEDMAN, BURTON DEAN; AND OTHERS

THIS DOCUMENT IS THE SECOND PART OF A REPORT, PROGRAM-ORIENTED INFORMATION--A MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS COMPLEX FOR STATE EDUCATION AGENCIES. PART 1, EA 001 170, SUBTITLED "ANALYSIS AND PROPOSALS," CONTAINS AN OUTLINE OF THE NEED FOR A MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS COMPLEX WITHIN EACH STATE EDUCATION AGENCY. THIS DOCUMENT IS A MANUAL PRESENTING THE…

Detection and isolation of nucleic acid sequences using competitive hybridization probes

DOEpatents

Lucas, Joe N.; Straume, Tore; Bogen, Kenneth T.

1997-01-01

A method for detecting a target nucleic acid sequence in a sample is provided using hybridization probes which competitively hybridize to a target nucleic acid. According to the method, a target nucleic acid sequence is hybridized to first and second hybridization probes which are complementary to overlapping portions of the target nucleic acid sequence, the first hybridization probe including a first complexing agent capable of forming a binding pair with a second complexing agent and the second hybridization probe including a detectable marker. The first complexing agent attached to the first hybridization probe is contacted with a second complexing agent, the second complexing agent being attached to a solid support such that when the first and second complexing agents are attached, target nucleic acid sequences hybridized to the first hybridization probe become immobilized on to the solid support. The immobilized target nucleic acids are then separated and detected by detecting the detectable marker attached to the second hybridization probe. A kit for performing the method is also provided.

Detection and isolation of nucleic acid sequences using competitive hybridization probes

DOEpatents

Lucas, J.N.; Straume, T.; Bogen, K.T.

1997-04-01

A method for detecting a target nucleic acid sequence in a sample is provided using hybridization probes which competitively hybridize to a target nucleic acid. According to the method, a target nucleic acid sequence is hybridized to first and second hybridization probes which are complementary to overlapping portions of the target nucleic acid sequence, the first hybridization probe including a first complexing agent capable of forming a binding pair with a second complexing agent and the second hybridization probe including a detectable marker. The first complexing agent attached to the first hybridization probe is contacted with a second complexing agent, the second complexing agent being attached to a solid support such that when the first and second complexing agents are attached, target nucleic acid sequences hybridized to the first hybridization probe become immobilized on to the solid support. The immobilized target nucleic acids are then separated and detected by detecting the detectable marker attached to the second hybridization probe. A kit for performing the method is also provided. 7 figs.

D.C. electrical conductivity and conduction mechanism of some azo sulfonyl quinoline ligands and uranyl complexes.

PubMed

El-Ghamaz, N A; Diab, M A; El-Sonbati, A Z; Salem, O L

2011-12-01

Supramolecular coordination of dioxouranium(VI) heterochelates 5-sulphono-7-(4'-X phenylazo)-8-hydroxyquinoline HL(n) (n=1, X=CH(3); n=2, X=H; n=3, X=Cl; n=4, X=NO(2)) have been prepared and characterized with various physico-chemical techniques. The infrared spectral studies showed a monobasic bidentate behavior with the oxygen and azonitrogen donor system. The temperature dependence of the D.C. electrical conductivity of HL(n) ligands and their uranyl complexes has been studied in the temperature range 305-415 K. The thermal activation energies E(a) for HL(n) compounds were found to be in the range 0.44-0.9 eV depending on the nature of the substituent X. The complexation process decreased E(a) values to the range 0.043-045 eV. The electrical conduction mechanism has been investigated for all samples under investigation. It was found to obey the variable range hopping mechanism (VRH). Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Activation energy-activation volume master plots for ion transport behavior in polymer electrolytes and supercooled molten salts.

PubMed

Ingram, Malcolm D; Imrie, Corrie T; Stoeva, Zlatka; Pas, Steven J; Funke, Klaus; Chandler, Howard W

2005-09-08

We demonstrate the use of activation energy versus activation volume "master plots" to explore ion transport in typical fragile glass forming systems exhibiting non-Arrhenius behavior. These systems include solvent-free salt complexes in poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and low molecular weight poly(propylene oxide) (PPO) and molten 2Ca(NO3)2.3KNO3 (CKN). Plots showing variations in apparent activation energy EA versus apparent activation volume VA are straight lines with slopes given by M = DeltaEA/DeltaVA. A simple ion transport mechanism is described where the rate determining step involves a dilatation (expressed as VA) around microscopic cavities and a corresponding work of expansion (EA). The slopes of the master plots M are equated to internal elastic moduli, which vary from 1.1 GPa for liquid PPO to 5.0 GPa for molten CKN on account of differing intermolecular forces in these materials.

Solving Large-scale Spatial Optimization Problems in Water Resources Management through Spatial Evolutionary Algorithms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, J.; Cai, X.

2007-12-01

A water resources system can be defined as a large-scale spatial system, within which distributed ecological system interacts with the stream network and ground water system. Water resources management, the causative factors and hence the solutions to be developed have a significant spatial dimension. This motivates a modeling analysis of water resources management within a spatial analytical framework, where data is usually geo- referenced and in the form of a map. One of the important functions of Geographic information systems (GIS) is to identify spatial patterns of environmental variables. The role of spatial patterns in water resources management has been well established in the literature particularly regarding how to design better spatial patterns for satisfying the designated objectives of water resources management. Evolutionary algorithms (EA) have been demonstrated to be successful in solving complex optimization models for water resources management due to its flexibility to incorporate complex simulation models in the optimal search procedure. The idea of combining GIS and EA motivates the development and application of spatial evolutionary algorithms (SEA). SEA assimilates spatial information into EA, and even changes the representation and operators of EA. In an EA used for water resources management, the mathematical optimization model should be modified to account the spatial patterns; however, spatial patterns are usually implicit, and it is difficult to impose appropriate patterns to spatial data. Also it is difficult to express complex spatial patterns by explicit constraints included in the EA. The GIS can help identify the spatial linkages and correlations based on the spatial knowledge of the problem. These linkages are incorporated in the fitness function for the preference of the compatible vegetation distribution. Unlike a regular GA for spatial models, the SEA employs a special hierarchical hyper-population and spatial genetic operators to represent spatial variables in a more efficient way. The hyper-population consists of a set of populations, which correspond to the spatial distributions of the individual agents (organisms). Furthermore spatial crossover and mutation operators are designed in accordance with the tree representation and then applied to both organisms and populations. This study applies the SEA to a specific problem of water resources management- maximizing the riparian vegetation coverage in accordance with the distributed groundwater system in an arid region. The vegetation coverage is impacted greatly by the nonlinear feedbacks and interactions between vegetation and groundwater and the spatial variability of groundwater. The SEA is applied to search for an optimal vegetation configuration compatible to the groundwater flow. The results from this example demonstrate the effectiveness of the SEA. Extension of the algorithm for other water resources management problems is discussed.

Predicting activation energy of thermolysis of polynitro arenes through molecular structure.

PubMed

Keshavarz, Mohammad Hossein; Pouretedal, Hamid Reza; Shokrolahi, Arash; Zali, Abbas; Semnani, Abolfazl

2008-12-15

The paper presents a new method for activation energy or the Arrhenius parameter E(a) of the thermolysis in the condensed state for different polynitro arenes as an important class of energetic molecules. The methodology assumes that E(a) of a polynitro arene with general formula C(a)H(b)N(c)O(d) can be expressed as a function of optimized elemental composition as well as the contribution of specific molecular structural parameters. The new method can predict E(a) of the thermolysis under conditions of Soviet Manometric Method (SMM), which can be related to the other convenient methods. The new correlation has the root mean square (rms) and the average deviations of 13.79 and 11.94kJ/mol, respectively, for 20 polynitro arenes with different molecular structures. The proposed new method can also be used to predict E(a) of three polynitro arenes, i.e. 2,2',2'',4,4',4'',6,6',6''-nonanitro-1,1':3',1''-terphenyl (NONA), 3,3'-diamino-2,2',4,4',6,6'-hexanitro-1,1'-biphenyl-3,3'-diamine (DIPAM) and N,N-bis(2,4-dinitrophenyl)-2,4,6-trinitroaniline (NTFA), which have complex molecular structures.

SAX-7/L1CAM and HMR-1/cadherin function redundantly in blastomere compaction and non-muscle myosin accumulation during C. elegans gastrulation

PubMed Central

Grana, Theresa M.; Cox, Elisabeth A.; Lynch, Allison M.; Hardin, Jeff

2010-01-01

Gastrulation is the first major morphogenetic movement in development, and requires dynamic regulation of cell adhesion and the cytoskeleton. C. elegans gastrulation begins with the migration of the two endodermal precursors, Ea and Ep, from the surface of the embryo into the interior. Ea/Ep migration provides a relatively simple system to examine the intersection of cell adhesion, cell signaling, and cell movement. Ea/Ep ingression depends on correct cell fate specification and polarization, apical myosin accumulation, and Wnt activated actomyosin contraction that drives apical constriction and ingression (Lee et al., 2006; Nance et al., 2005). Here, we show that Ea/Ep ingression also requires the function of either HMR-1/cadherin or SAX-7/L1CAM. Both cadherin complex components and L1CAM are localized at all sites of cell-cell contact during gastrulation. Either system is sufficient for Ea/Ep ingression, but loss of both together leads to a failure of apical constriction and ingression. Similar results are seen with isolated blastomeres. Ea/Ep are properly specified and appear to display correct apical-basal polarity in sax-7(eq1); hmr-1(RNAi) embryos. Significantly, in sax-7(eq1); hmr-1(RNAi) embryos Ea and Ep fail to accumulate myosin (NMY-2::GFP) at their apical surfaces, but in either sax-7(eq1) or hmr-1(RNAi) embryos, apical myosin accumulation is comparable to wildtype. Thus, the cadherin and L1CAM adhesion systems are redundantly required for localized myosin accumulation, and hence for actomyosin contractility during gastrulation. We also show that sax-7 and hmr-1 function are redundantly required for Wnt-dependent spindle polarization during division of the ABar blastomere, indicating that these cell surface proteins redundantly regulate multiple developmental events in early embryos. PMID:20515680

A Disease Mutation Causing Episodic Ataxia Type I in the S1 Links Directly to the Voltage Sensor and the Selectivity Filter in Kv Channels.

PubMed

Petitjean, Dimitri; Kalstrup, Tanja; Zhao, Juan; Blunck, Rikard

2015-09-02

The mutation F184C in Kv1.1 leads to development of episodic ataxia type I (EA1). Although the mutation has been said to alter activation kinetics and to lower expression, we show here that the underlying molecular mechanisms may be more complex. Although F184 is positioned in the "peripheral" S1 helix, it occupies a central position in the 3D fold. We show in cut-open oocyte voltage-clamp recordings of gating and ionic currents of the Shaker Kv channel expressed in Xenopus oocytes that F184 not only interacts directly with the gating charges of the S4, but also creates a functional link to the selectivity filter of the neighboring subunit. This link leads to impaired fast and slow inactivation. The effect on fast inactivation is of an allosteric nature considering that fast inactivation is caused by a linked cytosolic ball peptide. The extensive effects of F184C provide a new mechanism underlying EA. Episodic ataxia (EA) is an inherited disease that leads to occasional loss of motor control in combination with variable other symptoms such as vertigo or migraine. EA type I (EA1), studied here, is caused by mutations in a voltage-gated potassium channel that contributes to the generation of electrical signals in the brain. The mechanism by which mutations in voltage-gated potassium channels lead to EA is still unknown and there is no consistent pharmacological treatment. By studying in detail one disease-causing mutation in Kv1.1, we describe a novel molecular mechanism distinct from mechanisms described previously. This mechanism contributes to the understanding of potassium channel function in general and might lead to a better understanding of how EA develops. Copyright © 2015 the authors 0270-6474/15/3512198-09$15.00/0.

Identification of rare heterozygous missense mutations in FANCA in esophageal atresia patients using next-generation sequencing.

PubMed

Feng, Yu; Chen, Runsen; Da, Min; Qian, Bo; Mo, Xuming

2018-06-30

Esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula (EA/TEF) are relatively common malformations in newborns, but the etiology of EA/TEF remains unknown. Fanconi anemia (FA) complementation group A (FANCA) is a key component of the FA core complex and is essential for the activation of the DNA repair pathway. The middle region (amino acids 674-1208) of FANCA is required for its interaction with FAAP20. We performed targeted sequencing of this binding region of FANCA (exons 23-36) in 40 EA/TEF patients. We also investigated the effect of the p.A958V mutation on the protein-protein interaction between FANCA and FAAP20 using an in vitro binding assay and co-immunoprecipitation. Immunolocalization analysis was performed to investigate the subcellular localization of FANCA, and tissue sections and immunohistochemistry were used to explore the expression of FANCA. We identified four rare missense variants in the FANCA binding region. FANCA mutations were significantly overrepresented in EA/TEF patients compared with 4300 control subjects from the NHLBI-ESP project (Fisher's exact p = 2.17 × 10 -5 , odds ratio = 31.75). p.A958V, a novel de novo mutation in the FANCA gene, was identified in one patient with EA/TEF. We provide further evidence that the p.A958V mutation reduces the binding affinity of FANCA for FAAP20. Interestingly, the p.A958V mutation impaired the nuclear localization of the FANCA protein expressed in HeLa cells. We found that FANCA was more highly expressed in stratified squamous epithelium than in smooth muscle. In conclusion, mutations in the FANCA gene are associated with EA/TEF in humans. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

An old yellow enzyme gene controls the branch point between Aspergillus fumigatus and Claviceps purpurea ergot alkaloid pathways.

PubMed

Coyle, Christine M; Cheng, Johnathan Z; O'Connor, Sarah E; Panaccione, Daniel G

2010-06-01

Ergot fungi in the genus Claviceps and several related fungal groups in the family Clavicipitaceae produce toxic ergot alkaloids. These fungi produce a variety of ergot alkaloids, including clavines as well as lysergic acid derivatives. Ergot alkaloids are also produced by the distantly related, opportunistic human pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. However, this fungus produces festuclavine and fumigaclavines A, B, and C, which collectively differ from clavines of clavicipitaceous fungi in saturation of the last assembled of four rings in the ergoline ring structure. The two lineages are hypothesized to share early steps of the ergot alkaloid pathway before diverging at some point after the synthesis of the tricyclic intermediate chanoclavine-I. Disruption of easA, a gene predicted to encode a flavin-dependent oxidoreductase of the old yellow enzyme class, in A. fumigatus led to accumulation of chanoclavine-I and chanoclavine-I-aldehyde. Complementation of the A. fumigatus easA mutant with a wild-type allele from the same fungus restored the wild-type profile of ergot alkaloids. These data demonstrate that the product of A. fumigatus easA is required for incorporation of chanoclavine-I-aldehyde into more-complex ergot alkaloids, presumably by reducing the double bond conjugated to the aldehyde group, thus facilitating ring closure. Augmentation of the A. fumigatus easA mutant with a homologue of easA from Claviceps purpurea resulted in accumulation of ergot alkaloids typical of clavicipitaceous fungi (agroclavine, setoclavine, and its diastereoisomer isosetoclavine). These data indicate that functional differences in the easA-encoded old yellow enzymes of A. fumigatus and C. purpurea result in divergence of their respective ergot alkaloid pathways.

An Old Yellow Enzyme Gene Controls the Branch Point between Aspergillus fumigatus and Claviceps purpurea Ergot Alkaloid Pathways▿

PubMed Central

Coyle, Christine M.; Cheng, Johnathan Z.; O'Connor, Sarah E.; Panaccione, Daniel G.

2010-01-01

Ergot fungi in the genus Claviceps and several related fungal groups in the family Clavicipitaceae produce toxic ergot alkaloids. These fungi produce a variety of ergot alkaloids, including clavines as well as lysergic acid derivatives. Ergot alkaloids are also produced by the distantly related, opportunistic human pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. However, this fungus produces festuclavine and fumigaclavines A, B, and C, which collectively differ from clavines of clavicipitaceous fungi in saturation of the last assembled of four rings in the ergoline ring structure. The two lineages are hypothesized to share early steps of the ergot alkaloid pathway before diverging at some point after the synthesis of the tricyclic intermediate chanoclavine-I. Disruption of easA, a gene predicted to encode a flavin-dependent oxidoreductase of the old yellow enzyme class, in A. fumigatus led to accumulation of chanoclavine-I and chanoclavine-I-aldehyde. Complementation of the A. fumigatus easA mutant with a wild-type allele from the same fungus restored the wild-type profile of ergot alkaloids. These data demonstrate that the product of A. fumigatus easA is required for incorporation of chanoclavine-I-aldehyde into more-complex ergot alkaloids, presumably by reducing the double bond conjugated to the aldehyde group, thus facilitating ring closure. Augmentation of the A. fumigatus easA mutant with a homologue of easA from Claviceps purpurea resulted in accumulation of ergot alkaloids typical of clavicipitaceous fungi (agroclavine, setoclavine, and its diastereoisomer isosetoclavine). These data indicate that functional differences in the easA-encoded old yellow enzymes of A. fumigatus and C. purpurea result in divergence of their respective ergot alkaloid pathways. PMID:20435769

Erianthus arundinaceus HSP70 (EaHSP70) Acts as a Key Regulator in the Formation of Anisotropic Interdigitation in Sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid) in Response to Drought Stress.

PubMed

Augustine, Sruthy Maria; Cherian, Anoop V; Syamaladevi, Divya P; Subramonian, N

2015-12-01

Plant growth during abiotic stress is a long sought-after trait especially in crop plants in the context of global warming and climate change. Previous studies on leaf epidermal cells have revealed that during normal growth and development, adjacent cells interdigitate anisotropically to form cell morphological patterns known as interlocking marginal lobes (IMLs), involving the cell wall-cell membrane-cortical actin continuum. IMLs are growth-associated cell morphological changes in which auxin-binding protein (ABP), Rho GTPases and actin are known to play important roles. In the present study, we investigated the formation of IMLs under drought stress and found that Erianthus arundinaceus, a drought-tolerant wild relative of sugarcane, develops such growth-related cell morphological patterns under drought stress. Using confocal microscopy, we showed an increasing trend in cortical F-actin intensity in drought-tolerant plants with increasing soil moisture stress. In order to check the role of drought tolerance-related genes in IML formation under soil moisture stress, we adopted a structural data mining strategy and identified indirect connections between the ABPs and heat shock proteins (HSPs). Initial experimental evidence for this connection comes from the high transcript levels of HSP70 observed in drought-stressed Erianthus, which developed anisotropic interdigitation, i.e. IMLs. Subsequently, by overexpressing the E. arundinaceus HSP70 gene (EaHSP70) in sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid), we confirm the role of HSP70 in the formation of anisotropic interdigitation under drought stress. Taken together, our results suggest that EaHSP70 acts as a key regulator in the formation of anisotropic interdigitation in drought-tolerant plants (Erianthus and HSP70 transgenic sugarcane) under moisture stress in an actin-mediated pathway. The possible biological significance of the formation of drought-associated interlocking marginal lobes (DaIMLs) in sugarcane plants upon drought stress is discussed. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Japanese Society of Plant Physiologists. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Noble reaction features of bromoborane in oxidative addition of B-Br σ-bond to [M(PMe3)2] (M=Pt or Pd): theoretical study.

PubMed

Zeng, Guixiang; Sakaki, Shigeyoshi

2011-06-06

Through detailed calculations by density functional theory and second-order Møller-Plesset perturbation theory (MP2) to fourth-order Møller-Plesset perturbation theory including single, double, and quadruple excitations [MP4(SDQ)] methods, we investigated the oxidative addition of the B-Br bond of dibromo(trimethylsiloxy)borane [Br(2)B(OSiMe(3))] to Pt(0) and Pd(0) complexes [M(PMe(3))(2)] (M = Pt or Pd) directly yielding a trans bromoboryl complex trans-[MBr{BBr(OSiMe(3))}(PMe(3))(2)]. Two reaction pathways are found for this reaction: One is a nucleophilic attack pathway which directly leads to the trans product, and the other is a stepwise reaction pathway which occurs through successive cis oxidative addition of the B-Br bond to [M(PMe(3))(2)] and thermal cis-trans isomerization. In the Pt system, the former course occurs with a much smaller energy barrier (E(a) = 5.8 kcal/mol) than the latter one (E(a) = 20.7 kcal/mol), where the DFT-calculated E(a) value is presented hereafter. In the Pd system, only the latter course is found in which the rate-determining steps is the cis-trans isomerization with the E(a) of 15.1 kcal/mol. Interestingly, the thermal cis-trans isomerization occurs on the singlet potential energy surface against our expectation. This unexpected result is understood in terms of the strong donation ability of the boryl group. Detailed analyses of electronic processes in all these reaction steps as well as remarkable characteristic features of [Br(2)B(OSiMe(3))] are also provided. © 2011 American Chemical Society

77 FR 31342 - Application To Export Electric Energy; Emera Energy Services Subsidiaries

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-05-25

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY [OE Docket No. EA-321-A, EA-322-A, EA-323-A, EA-324-A and EA-325-A...)). On April 19, 2007, the Department of Energy (DOE) issued Order No. EA-321, EA-322, EA-323, EA-324 and... Canada as power marketers for a five-year term. The current export authorities in Order No EA-321, EA-322...

Improving p-type doping efficiency in Al0.83Ga0.17N alloy substituted by nanoscale (AlN)5/(GaN)1 superlattice with MgGa-ON δ-codoping: Role of O-atom in GaN monolayer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, Hong-xia; Shi, Jun-jie; Zhang, Min; Jiang, Xin-he; Huang, Pu; Ding, Yi-min

2015-01-01

We calculate Mg-acceptor activation energy EA and investigate the influence of O-atom, occupied the Mg nearest-neighbor, on EA in nanoscale (AlN)5/(GaN)1 superlattice (SL), a substitution for Al0.83Ga0.17N disorder alloy, using first-principles calculations. We find that the N-atom bonded with Ga-atom is more easily substituted by O-atom and nMgGa-ON (n = 1-3) complexes are favorable and stable in the SL. The O-atom plays a dominant role in reducing EA. The shorter the Mg-O bond is, the smaller the EA is. The Mg-acceptor activation energy can be reduced significantly by nMgGa-ON δ-codoping. Our calculated EA for 2MgGa-ON is 0.21 eV, and can be further reduced to 0.13 eV for 3MgGa-ON, which results in a high hole concentration in the order of 1020 cm-3 at room temperature in (AlN)5/(GaN)1 SL. Our results prove that nMgGa-ON (n = 2,3) δ-codoping in AlN/GaN SL with ultrathin GaN-layer is an effective way to improve p-type doping efficiency in Al-rich AlGaN.

An Alternative Mechanism for the Methylation of Phosphoethanolamine Catalyzed by Plasmodium falciparum Phosphoethanolamine Methyltransferase*♦

PubMed Central

Saen-oon, Suwipa; Lee, Soon Goo; Jez, Joseph M.; Guallar, Victor

2014-01-01

The phosphobase methylation pathway catalyzed by the phosphoethanolamine methyltransferase in Plasmodium falciparum (PfPMT), the malaria parasite, offers an attractive target for anti-parasitic drug development. PfPMT methylates phosphoethanolamine (pEA) to phosphocholine for use in membrane biogenesis. Quantum mechanics and molecular mechanics (QM/MM) calculations tested the proposed reaction mechanism for methylation of pEA involving the previously identified Tyr-19–His-132 dyad, which indicated an energetically unfavorable mechanism. Instead, the QM/MM calculations suggested an alternative mechanism involving Asp-128. The reaction coordinate involves the stepwise transfer of a proton to Asp-128 via a bridging water molecule followed by a typical Sn2-type methyl transfer from S-adenosylmethionine to pEA. Functional analysis of the D128A, D128E, D128Q, and D128N PfPMT mutants shows a loss of activity with pEA but not with the final substrate of the methylation pathway. X-ray crystal structures of the PfPMT-D128A mutant in complex with S-adenosylhomocysteine and either pEA or phosphocholine reveal how mutation of Asp-128 disrupts a hydrogen bond network in the active site. The combined QM/MM, biochemical, and structural studies identify a key role for Asp-128 in the initial step of the phosphobase methylation pathway in Plasmodium and provide molecular insight on the evolution of multiple activities in the active site of the PMT. PMID:25288796

An alternative mechanism for the methylation of phosphoethanolamine catalyzed by Plasmodium falciparum phosphoethanolamine methyltransferase

DOE PAGES

Saen-oon, Suwipa; Lee, Soon Goo; Jez, Joseph M.; ...

2014-10-06

Here, the phosphobase methylation pathway catalyzed by the phosphoethanolamine methyltransferase in Plasmodium falciparum (PfPMT), the malaria parasite, offers an attractive target for anti-parasitic drug development. PfPMT methylates phosphoethanolamine (pEA) to phosphocholine for use in membrane biogenesis. Quantum mechanics and molecular mechanics (QM/MM) calculations tested the proposed reaction mechanism for methylation of pEA involving the previously identified Tyr-19–His-132 dyad, which indicated an energetically unfavorable mechanism. Instead, the QM/MM calculations suggested an alternative mechanism involving Asp-128. The reaction coordinate involves the stepwise transfer of a proton to Asp-128 via a bridging water molecule followed by a typical S n2-type methyl transfer frommore » S-adenosylmethionine to pEA. Functional analysis of the D128A, D128E, D128Q, and D128N PfPMT mutants shows a loss of activity with pEA but not with the final substrate of the methylation pathway. X-ray crystal structures of the PfPMT-D128A mutant in complex with S-adenosylhomocysteine and either pEA or phosphocholine reveal how mutation of Asp-128 disrupts a hydrogen bond network in the active site. The combined QM/MM, biochemical, and structural studies identify a key role for Asp-128 in the initial step of the phosphobase methylation pathway in Plasmodium and provide molecular insight on the evolution of multiple activities in the active site of the PMT.« less

An alternative mechanism for the methylation of phosphoethanolamine catalyzed by Plasmodium falciparum phosphoethanolamine methyltransferase

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

Saen-oon, Suwipa; Lee, Soon Goo; Jez, Joseph M.

Here, the phosphobase methylation pathway catalyzed by the phosphoethanolamine methyltransferase in Plasmodium falciparum (PfPMT), the malaria parasite, offers an attractive target for anti-parasitic drug development. PfPMT methylates phosphoethanolamine (pEA) to phosphocholine for use in membrane biogenesis. Quantum mechanics and molecular mechanics (QM/MM) calculations tested the proposed reaction mechanism for methylation of pEA involving the previously identified Tyr-19–His-132 dyad, which indicated an energetically unfavorable mechanism. Instead, the QM/MM calculations suggested an alternative mechanism involving Asp-128. The reaction coordinate involves the stepwise transfer of a proton to Asp-128 via a bridging water molecule followed by a typical S n2-type methyl transfer frommore » S-adenosylmethionine to pEA. Functional analysis of the D128A, D128E, D128Q, and D128N PfPMT mutants shows a loss of activity with pEA but not with the final substrate of the methylation pathway. X-ray crystal structures of the PfPMT-D128A mutant in complex with S-adenosylhomocysteine and either pEA or phosphocholine reveal how mutation of Asp-128 disrupts a hydrogen bond network in the active site. The combined QM/MM, biochemical, and structural studies identify a key role for Asp-128 in the initial step of the phosphobase methylation pathway in Plasmodium and provide molecular insight on the evolution of multiple activities in the active site of the PMT.« less

Influence of Coulombic repulsion on the dissociation pathways and energetics of multiprotein complexes in the gas phase.

PubMed

Sinelnikov, Igor; Kitova, Elena N; Klassen, John S

2007-04-01

Thermal dissociation experiments, implemented with blackbody infrared radiative dissociation and Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry, are performed on gaseous protonated and deprotonated ions of the homopentameric B subunits of Shiga toxin 1 (Stx1 B5) and Shiga toxin 2 (Stx2 B5) and the homotetramer streptavidin (S4). Dissociation of the gaseous, multisubunit complexes proceeds predominantly by the loss of a single subunit. Notably, the fractional partitioning of charge between the product ions, i.e., the leaving subunit and the resulting multimer, for a given complex is, within error, constant over the range of charge states investigated. The Arrhenius activation parameters (E(a), A) measured for the loss of subunit decrease with increasing charge state of the complex. However, the parameters for the protonated and deprotonated ions, with the same number of charges, are indistinguishable. The influence of the complex charge state on the dissociation pathways and the magnitude of the dissociation E(a) are modeled theoretically with the discrete charge droplet model (DCDM) and the protein structure model (PSM), wherein the structure of the subunits is considered. Importantly, the major subunit charge states observed experimentally for the Stx1 B5(n+/-) ions correspond to the minimum energy charge distribution predicted by DCDM and PSM assuming a late dissociative transition-state (TS); while for structurally-related Stx2 B5(n+) ions, the experimental charge distribution corresponds to an early TS. It is proposed that the lateness of the TS is related, in part, to the degree of unfolding of the leaving subunit, with Stx1 B being more unfolded than Stx2 B. PSM, incorporating significant subunit unfolding is necessary to account for the product ions observed for the S4(n+) ions. The contribution of Coulombic repulsion to the dissociation E(a) is quantified and the intrinsic activation energy is estimated for the first time.

Environmental Assessment (EA): Proposed Emergency Power Unit Overhaul Complex at Little Mountain Test Annex, Utah

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-03-14

NUMBER FA8201-09-D-0002 Overhaul Complex at Little Mountain Test Annex, Utah 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6. AUTHOR(S...AND ADDRESS(ES) 8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER Streamline Consulting, LLC 1713 N. Sweetwater Lane Farmington, Utah 84025...Hill Air Force Base (AFB) proposes to construct a new emergency power unit overhaul complex at Little Mountain Test Annex, Utah . Buildings 2005

In situ preparation of powder and the sorption behaviors of molecularly imprinted polymers through the complexation between polymer ion of methyl methacrylate/acrylic acid and Ca++ ion.

PubMed

Chough, Sung Hyo; Park, Kwang Ho; Cho, Seung Jin; Park, Hye Ryoung

2014-09-02

Molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) powders were prepared using a simple complexation strategy between the polymer carboxylate groups and template molecule followed by metal cation cross-linking of residual polymer carboxylates. Polymer powders were formed in situ by templating carboxylic acid containing polymers with 4-ethylaniline (4-EA), followed by addition of an aqueous CaCl2 solution. The solution remained homogeneous. The powders were prepared by precipitation by slowly adding a non-solvent, H2O, to the mixture. The resulting particles were very porous with uptake capacity that approached the theoretical value. We suggest two types of complexes are formed between the template, 4-EA, and polymer. The isolated entry type forms well defined cavities for the template with high specific selectivity, while the adjacent entry type forms wider binding sites without specific sorption for isomeric molecules. To evaluate conditions for forming materials with high affinity and selectivity, three MIPs were prepared containing 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 equivalents of template to the base polymer. The MIP containing 0.5 eq showed higher specific selectivity to 4-EA, but the MIP containing 1.5 eq had noticeably lower selectivity. The lower selectivity is attributed to poorly formed binding sites with little selective sorption to any isomer when the higher ratio of template was used. However at the lower ratio of template the isolated entry is preferably formed to produce well defined binding cavities with higher selectivity to template. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nonequilibrium Green's functions and atom-surface dynamics: Simple views from a simple model system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boström, E.; Hopjan, M.; Kartsev, A.; Verdozzi, C.; Almbladh, C.-O.

2016-03-01

We employ Non-equilibrium Green's functions (NEGF) to describe the real-time dynamics of an adsorbate-surface model system exposed to ultrafast laser pulses. For a finite number of electronic orbitals, the system is solved exactly and within different levels of approximation. Specifically i) the full exact quantum mechanical solution for electron and nuclear degrees of freedom is used to benchmark ii) the Ehrenfest approximation (EA) for the nuclei, with the electron dynamics still treated exactly. Then, using the EA, electronic correlations are treated with NEGF within iii) 2nd Born and with iv) a recently introduced hybrid scheme, which mixes 2nd Born self-energies with non-perturbative, local exchange- correlation potentials of Density Functional Theory (DFT). Finally, the effect of a semi-infinite substrate is considered: we observe that a macroscopic number of de-excitation channels can hinder desorption. While very preliminary in character and based on a simple and rather specific model system, our results clearly illustrate the large potential of NEGF to investigate atomic desorption, and more generally, the non equilibrium dynamics of material surfaces subject to ultrafast laser fields.

Applications of Evolutionary Technology to Manufacturing and Logistics Systems : State-of-the Art Survey

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gen, Mitsuo; Lin, Lin

Many combinatorial optimization problems from industrial engineering and operations research in real-world are very complex in nature and quite hard to solve them by conventional techniques. Since the 1960s, there has been an increasing interest in imitating living beings to solve such kinds of hard combinatorial optimization problems. Simulating the natural evolutionary process of human beings results in stochastic optimization techniques called evolutionary algorithms (EAs), which can often outperform conventional optimization methods when applied to difficult real-world problems. In this survey paper, we provide a comprehensive survey of the current state-of-the-art in the use of EA in manufacturing and logistics systems. In order to demonstrate the EAs which are powerful and broadly applicable stochastic search and optimization techniques, we deal with the following engineering design problems: transportation planning models, layout design models and two-stage logistics models in logistics systems; job-shop scheduling, resource constrained project scheduling in manufacturing system.

The Induction of Growth Inhibition and Apoptosis in HeLa and MCF-7 Cells by Teucrium sandrasicum, Having Effective Antioxidant Properties.

PubMed

Tarhan, Leman; Nakipoğlu, Mahmure; Kavakcıoğlu, Berna; Tongul, Burcu; Nalbantsoy, Ayşe

2016-03-01

The hidromethanolic (Met/W), ethyl acetate (EA(EA/W)), and water (W(EA/W)) extracts from Teucrium sandrasicum leaves (L) and flowers (F) were investigated for antioxidant properties and antiproliferative effects on HeLa, MCF-7, and L929. The highest DPPH scavenging, metal chelating capacities, and total phenolic and flavonoid contents were observed in Met/WL. The highest hydroxyl scavenging and reducing power capacities were found in EA(EA/W)L. Met/WL, EA(EA/W)L and EA(EA/W)F inhibited cancer cell growths, while they did not show significant cytotoxicity on L929. While the reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were generally close to controls in HeLa, they were induced in MCF-7 with the treatment of Met/WL, EA(EA/W)L, and EA(EA/W)F and acted as antioxidant for L929. The highest apoptosis inductions were observed in Met/WL-treated HeLa and EA(EA/W)L-treated MCF-7, which were supported with the changes in mitochondrial membrane potentials. The highest caspase-9 activities were found in Met/WL-treated HeLa and EA(EA/W)F-treated MCF-7. Caspase-3 activity was only induced in EA(EA/W)F-treated HeLa.

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

Adam, J. C.; Stephens, J. C.; Chung, Serena

As managers of agricultural and natural resources are confronted with uncertainties in global change impacts, the complexities associated with the interconnected cycling of nitrogen, carbon, and water present daunting management challenges. Existing models provide detailed information on specific sub-systems (land, air, water, economics, etc). An increasing awareness of the unintended consequences of management decisions resulting from interconnectedness of these sub-systems, however, necessitates coupled regional earth system models (EaSMs). Decision makers’ needs and priorities can be integrated into the model design and development processes to enhance decision-making relevance and "usability" of EaSMs. BioEarth is a current research initiative with a focusmore » on the U.S. Pacific Northwest region that explores the coupling of multiple stand-alone EaSMs to generate usable information for resource decision-making. Direct engagement between model developers and non-academic stakeholders involved in resource and environmental management decisions throughout the model development process is a critical component of this effort. BioEarth utilizes a "bottom-up" approach, upscaling a catchment-scale model to basin and regional scales, as opposed to the "top-down" approach of downscaling global models utilized by most other EaSM efforts. This paper describes the BioEarth initiative and highlights opportunities and challenges associated with coupling multiple stand-alone models to generate usable information for agricultural and natural resource decision-making.« less

An Investigation of the Use of Real-time Image Mosaicing for Facilitating Global Spatial Awareness in Visual Search

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soung Yee, Anthony

Three experiments have been completed to investigate whether and how a software technique called real-time image mosaicing applied to a restricted field of view (FOV) might influence target detection and path integration performance in simulated aerial search scenarios, representing local and global spatial awareness tasks respectively. The mosaiced FOV (mFOV) was compared to single FOV (sFOV) and one with double the single size (dFOV). In addition to advancing our understanding of visual information in mosaicing, the present study examines the advantages and limitations of a number of metrics used to evaluate performance in path integration tasks, with particular attention paid to measuring performance in identifying complex routes. The highlights of the results are summarized as follows, according to Experiments 1 through 3 respectively. 1. A novel response method for evaluating route identification performance was developed. The surmised benefits of the mFOV relative to sFOV and dFOV revealed no significant differences in performance for the relatively simple route shapes tested. Compared to the mFOV and dFOV conditions, target detection performance in the local task was found to be superior in the sFOV condition. 2. In order to appropriately quantify the observed differences in complex route selections made by the participants, a novel analysis method was developed using the Thurstonian Paired Comparisons Method. 3. To investigate the effect of display size and elevation angle (EA) in a complex route environment, a 2x3 experiment was conducted for the two spatial tasks, at a height selected from Experiment 2. Although no significant differences were found in the target detection task, contrasts in the Paired Comparisons Method results revealed that route identification performance were as hypothesised: mFOV > dFOV > sFOV for EA = 90°. Results were similar for EA = 45°, but with mFOV being no different than dFOV. As hypothesised, EA was found to have an effect on route selection performance, with a top down view performing better than an angled view for the mFOV and sFOV conditions.

Speech perception with combined electric-acoustic stimulation and bilateral cochlear implants in a multisource noise field.

PubMed

Rader, Tobias; Fastl, Hugo; Baumann, Uwe

2013-01-01

The aim of the study was to measure and compare speech perception in users of electric-acoustic stimulation (EAS) supported by a hearing aid in the unimplanted ear and in bilateral cochlear implant (CI) users under different noise and sound field conditions. Gap listening was assessed by comparing performance in unmodulated and modulated Comité Consultatif International Téléphonique et Télégraphique (CCITT) noise conditions, and binaural interaction was investigated by comparing single source and multisource sound fields. Speech perception in noise was measured using a closed-set sentence test (Oldenburg Sentence Test, OLSA) in a multisource noise field (MSNF) consisting of a four-loudspeaker array with independent noise sources and a single source in frontal position (S0N0). Speech simulating noise (Fastl-noise), CCITT-noise (continuous), and OLSA-noise (pseudo continuous) served as noise sources with different temporal patterns. Speech tests were performed in two groups of subjects who were using either EAS (n = 12) or bilateral CIs (n = 10). All subjects in the EAS group were fitted with a high-power hearing aid in the opposite ear (bimodal EAS). The average group score on monosyllable in quiet was 68.8% (EAS) and 80.5% (bilateral CI). A group of 22 listeners with normal hearing served as controls to compare and evaluate potential gap listening effects in implanted patients. Average speech reception thresholds in the EAS group were significantly lower than those for the bilateral CI group in all test conditions (CCITT 6.1 dB, p = 0.001; Fastl-noise 5.4 dB, p < 0.01; Oldenburg-(OL)-noise 1.6 dB, p < 0.05). Bilateral CI and EAS user groups showed a significant improvement of 4.3 dB (p = 0.004) and 5.4 dB (p = 0.002) between S0N0 and MSNF sound field conditions respectively, which signifies advantages caused by bilateral interaction in both groups. Performance in the control group showed a significant gap listening effect with a difference of 6.5 dB between modulated and unmodulated noise in S0N0, and a difference of 3.0 dB in MSNF. The ability to "glimpse" into short temporal masker gaps was absent in both groups of implanted subjects. Combined EAS in one ear supported by a hearing aid on the contralateral ear provided significantly improved speech perception compared with bilateral cochlear implantation. Although the scores for monosyllable words in quiet were higher in the bilateral CI group, the EAS group performed better in different noise and sound field conditions. Furthermore, the results indicated that binaural interaction between EAS in one ear and residual acoustic hearing in the opposite ear enhances speech perception in complex noise situations. Both bilateral CI and bimodal EAS users did not benefit from short temporal masker gaps, therefore the better performance of the EAS group in modulated noise conditions could be explained by the improved transmission of fundamental frequency cues in the lower-frequency region of acoustic hearing, which might foster the grouping of auditory objects.

Bidirectional associations between bedtime parenting and infant sleep: Parenting quality, parenting practices, and their interaction.

PubMed

Philbrook, Lauren E; Teti, Douglas M

2016-06-01

In keeping with transactional conceptualizations of infant sleep development (Sadeh, Tikotzky, & Scher, 2010), the present study was an examination of longitudinal, bidirectional linkages between bedtime parenting (through direct observations of parenting practices and quality) and infant sleep across the first 6 months postpartum. In doing so, we also drew from Darling and Steinberg's (1993) conceptual model to examine parenting quality as a moderator of linkages between specific bedtime practices and infant sleep. Multilevel model analyses revealed that the strongest increases in infant nighttime sleep across the first 6 months occurred among infants of mothers who engaged in low levels of nursing at bedtime. Within-person linkages between mothers' emotional availability (EA) at bedtime, infant distress, and infant sleep were found, such that at time points when mothers were more emotionally available, infants were less distressed and slept more throughout the night. Several moderating effects of maternal EA on linkages between parenting practices and infant sleep were obtained that were consistent with predictions from Darling and Steinberg (1993). Higher maternal EA in combination with less close contact at bedtime was associated with more infant sleep across the night on average, and higher EA in combination with fewer arousing bedtime activities predicted more rapid increases in infant sleep with age. Finally, there was evidence of infant-driven effects, as higher infant nighttime distress predicted lower EA at subsequent time points. Results showcased the complex, reciprocal interplay between parents and infants in the development of infant sleep patterns and parenting behavior during the first 6 months postpartum. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

Bidirectional Associations between Bedtime Parenting and Infant Sleep: Parenting Quality, Parenting Practices, and their Interaction

PubMed Central

Philbrook, Lauren E.; Teti, Douglas M.

2016-01-01

In keeping with transactional conceptualizations of infant sleep development (Sadeh et al., 2010), the present study examined longitudinal, bidirectional linkages between bedtime parenting (direct observations of parenting practices and quality) and infant sleep across the first six months postpartum. In doing so, we also drew from Darling and Steinberg's (1993) conceptual model to examine parenting quality as a moderator of linkages between specific bedtime practices and infant sleep. Multilevel model analyses revealed that the strongest increases in infant nighttime sleep across the first six months occurred among infants of mothers who engaged in low levels of nursing at bedtime. Within-person linkages between mothers' emotional availability (EA) at bedtime, infant distress, and infant sleep were found, such that at time points when mothers were more emotionally available, infants were less distressed and slept more throughout the night. Several moderating effects of maternal EA on linkages between parenting practices and infant sleep were obtained that were consistent with predictions from Darling and Steinberg (1993). Higher maternal EA in combination with less close contact at bedtime was associated with more infant sleep across the night on average, and higher EA in combination with fewer arousing bedtime activities predicted more rapid increases in infant sleep with age. Finally, there was evidence of infant-driven effects, as higher infant nighttime distress predicted lower EA at subsequent time points. Results showcased the complex, reciprocal interplay between parents and infants in the development of infant sleep patterns and parenting behavior during the first six months postpartum. PMID:27010601

Hybrid function projective synchronization in complex dynamical networks

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

Wei, Qiang; Wang, Xing-yuan, E-mail: wangxy@dlut.edu.cn; Hu, Xiao-peng

2014-02-15

This paper investigates hybrid function projective synchronization in complex dynamical networks. When the complex dynamical networks could be synchronized up to an equilibrium or periodic orbit, a hybrid feedback controller is designed to realize the different component of vector of node could be synchronized up to different desired scaling function in complex dynamical networks with time delay. Hybrid function projective synchronization (HFPS) in complex dynamical networks with constant delay and HFPS in complex dynamical networks with time-varying coupling delay are researched, respectively. Finally, the numerical simulations show the effectiveness of theoretical analysis.

Biomedical effects of low-power laser controlled by electroacupuncture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kalenchits, Nadezhda I.; Nicolaenko, Andrej A.; Shpilevoj, Boris N.

1997-12-01

The methods and technical facilities of testing the biomedical effects caused by the influence of low-power laser radiation in the process of laser therapy are presented. Described studies have been conducted by means of the complex of fireware facilities consisting of the system of electroacupuncture diagnostics (EA) and a system of laser therapy on the basis of multichannel laser and magneto-laser devices. The task of laser therapy was concluded in undertaking acupuncture anaesthetization, achievement of antioedemic and dispersional actions, raising tone of musculus and nervous system, normalization of immunity factors under the control of system EA. The 82 percent to 95 percent agreement of the result of an electroacupuncture diagnostics with clinical diagnoses were achieved.

Kit for detecting nucleic acid sequences using competitive hybridization probes

DOEpatents

Lucas, Joe N.; Straume, Tore; Bogen, Kenneth T.

2001-01-01

A kit is provided for detecting a target nucleic acid sequence in a sample, the kit comprising: a first hybridization probe which includes a nucleic acid sequence that is sufficiently complementary to selectively hybridize to a first portion of the target sequence, the first hybridization probe including a first complexing agent for forming a binding pair with a second complexing agent; and a second hybridization probe which includes a nucleic acid sequence that is sufficiently complementary to selectively hybridize to a second portion of the target sequence to which the first hybridization probe does not selectively hybridize, the second hybridization probe including a detectable marker; a third hybridization probe which includes a nucleic acid sequence that is sufficiently complementary to selectively hybridize to a first portion of the target sequence, the third hybridization probe including the same detectable marker as the second hybridization probe; and a fourth hybridization probe which includes a nucleic acid sequence that is sufficiently complementary to selectively hybridize to a second portion of the target sequence to which the third hybridization probe does not selectively hybridize, the fourth hybridization probe including the first complexing agent for forming a binding pair with the second complexing agent; wherein the first and second hybridization probes are capable of simultaneously hybridizing to the target sequence and the third and fourth hybridization probes are capable of simultaneously hybridizing to the target sequence, the detectable marker is not present on the first or fourth hybridization probes and the first, second, third, and fourth hybridization probes each include a competitive nucleic acid sequence which is sufficiently complementary to a third portion of the target sequence that the competitive sequences of the first, second, third, and fourth hybridization probes compete with each other to hybridize to the third portion of the target sequence.

Transancestral mapping and genetic load in systemic lupus erythematosus.

PubMed

Langefeld, Carl D; Ainsworth, Hannah C; Cunninghame Graham, Deborah S; Kelly, Jennifer A; Comeau, Mary E; Marion, Miranda C; Howard, Timothy D; Ramos, Paula S; Croker, Jennifer A; Morris, David L; Sandling, Johanna K; Almlöf, Jonas Carlsson; Acevedo-Vásquez, Eduardo M; Alarcón, Graciela S; Babini, Alejandra M; Baca, Vicente; Bengtsson, Anders A; Berbotto, Guillermo A; Bijl, Marc; Brown, Elizabeth E; Brunner, Hermine I; Cardiel, Mario H; Catoggio, Luis; Cervera, Ricard; Cucho-Venegas, Jorge M; Dahlqvist, Solbritt Rantapää; D'Alfonso, Sandra; Da Silva, Berta Martins; de la Rúa Figueroa, Iñigo; Doria, Andrea; Edberg, Jeffrey C; Endreffy, Emőke; Esquivel-Valerio, Jorge A; Fortin, Paul R; Freedman, Barry I; Frostegård, Johan; García, Mercedes A; de la Torre, Ignacio García; Gilkeson, Gary S; Gladman, Dafna D; Gunnarsson, Iva; Guthridge, Joel M; Huggins, Jennifer L; James, Judith A; Kallenberg, Cees G M; Kamen, Diane L; Karp, David R; Kaufman, Kenneth M; Kottyan, Leah C; Kovács, László; Laustrup, Helle; Lauwerys, Bernard R; Li, Quan-Zhen; Maradiaga-Ceceña, Marco A; Martín, Javier; McCune, Joseph M; McWilliams, David R; Merrill, Joan T; Miranda, Pedro; Moctezuma, José F; Nath, Swapan K; Niewold, Timothy B; Orozco, Lorena; Ortego-Centeno, Norberto; Petri, Michelle; Pineau, Christian A; Pons-Estel, Bernardo A; Pope, Janet; Raj, Prithvi; Ramsey-Goldman, Rosalind; Reveille, John D; Russell, Laurie P; Sabio, José M; Aguilar-Salinas, Carlos A; Scherbarth, Hugo R; Scorza, Raffaella; Seldin, Michael F; Sjöwall, Christopher; Svenungsson, Elisabet; Thompson, Susan D; Toloza, Sergio M A; Truedsson, Lennart; Tusié-Luna, Teresa; Vasconcelos, Carlos; Vilá, Luis M; Wallace, Daniel J; Weisman, Michael H; Wither, Joan E; Bhangale, Tushar; Oksenberg, Jorge R; Rioux, John D; Gregersen, Peter K; Syvänen, Ann-Christine; Rönnblom, Lars; Criswell, Lindsey A; Jacob, Chaim O; Sivils, Kathy L; Tsao, Betty P; Schanberg, Laura E; Behrens, Timothy W; Silverman, Earl D; Alarcón-Riquelme, Marta E; Kimberly, Robert P; Harley, John B; Wakeland, Edward K; Graham, Robert R; Gaffney, Patrick M; Vyse, Timothy J

2017-07-17

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease with marked gender and ethnic disparities. We report a large transancestral association study of SLE using Immunochip genotype data from 27,574 individuals of European (EA), African (AA) and Hispanic Amerindian (HA) ancestry. We identify 58 distinct non-HLA regions in EA, 9 in AA and 16 in HA (∼50% of these regions have multiple independent associations); these include 24 novel SLE regions (P<5 × 10 -8 ), refined association signals in established regions, extended associations to additional ancestries, and a disentangled complex HLA multigenic effect. The risk allele count (genetic load) exhibits an accelerating pattern of SLE risk, leading us to posit a cumulative hit hypothesis for autoimmune disease. Comparing results across the three ancestries identifies both ancestry-dependent and ancestry-independent contributions to SLE risk. Our results are consistent with the unique and complex histories of the populations sampled, and collectively help clarify the genetic architecture and ethnic disparities in SLE.

New installation for inclined EAS investigations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zadeba, E. A.; Ampilogov, N. V.; Barbashina, N. S.; Bogdanov, A. G.; Borisov, A. A.; Chernov, D. V.; Dushkin, L. I.; Fakhrutdinov, R. M.; Kokoulin, R. P.; Kompaniets, K. G.; Kozhin, A. S.; Ovchinnikov, V. V.; Ovechkin, A. S.; Petrukhin, A. A.; Shutenko, V. V.; Volkov, N. S.; Vorobjev, V. S.; Yashin, I. I.

2017-06-01

The large-scale coordinate-tracking detector TREK for registration of inclined EAS is being developed in MEPhI. The detector is based on multiwire drift chambers from the neutrino experiment at the IHEP U-70 accelerator. Their key advantages are a large effective area (1.85 m2), a good coordinate and angular resolution with a small number of measuring channels. The detector will be operated as part of the experimental complex NEVOD, in particular, jointly with a Cherenkov water detector (CWD) with a volume of 2000 cubic meters and the coordinate detector DECOR. The first part of the detector named Coordinate-Tracking Unit based on the Drift Chambers (CTUDC), representing two coordinate planes of 8 drift chambers in each, has been developed and mounted on opposite sides of the CWD. It has the same principle of joint operation with the NEVOD-DECOR triggering system and the same drift chambers alignment, so the main features of the TREK detector will be examined. Results of the CTUDC development and a joint operation with NEVOD-DECOR complex are presented.

Transancestral mapping and genetic load in systemic lupus erythematosus

PubMed Central

Langefeld, Carl D.; Ainsworth, Hannah C.; Graham, Deborah S. Cunninghame; Kelly, Jennifer A.; Comeau, Mary E.; Marion, Miranda C.; Howard, Timothy D.; Ramos, Paula S.; Croker, Jennifer A.; Morris, David L.; Sandling, Johanna K.; Almlöf, Jonas Carlsson; Acevedo-Vásquez, Eduardo M.; Alarcón, Graciela S.; Babini, Alejandra M.; Baca, Vicente; Bengtsson, Anders A.; Berbotto, Guillermo A.; Bijl, Marc; Brown, Elizabeth E.; Brunner, Hermine I.; Cardiel, Mario H.; Catoggio, Luis; Cervera, Ricard; Cucho-Venegas, Jorge M.; Dahlqvist, Solbritt Rantapää; D’Alfonso, Sandra; Da Silva, Berta Martins; de la Rúa Figueroa, Iñigo; Doria, Andrea; Edberg, Jeffrey C.; Endreffy, Emőke; Esquivel-Valerio, Jorge A.; Fortin, Paul R.; Freedman, Barry I.; Frostegård, Johan; García, Mercedes A.; de la Torre, Ignacio García; Gilkeson, Gary S.; Gladman, Dafna D.; Gunnarsson, Iva; Guthridge, Joel M.; Huggins, Jennifer L.; James, Judith A.; Kallenberg, Cees G. M.; Kamen, Diane L.; Karp, David R.; Kaufman, Kenneth M.; Kottyan, Leah C.; Kovács, László; Laustrup, Helle; Lauwerys, Bernard R.; Li, Quan-Zhen; Maradiaga-Ceceña, Marco A.; Martín, Javier; McCune, Joseph M.; McWilliams, David R.; Merrill, Joan T.; Miranda, Pedro; Moctezuma, José F.; Nath, Swapan K.; Niewold, Timothy B.; Orozco, Lorena; Ortego-Centeno, Norberto; Petri, Michelle; Pineau, Christian A.; Pons-Estel, Bernardo A.; Pope, Janet; Raj, Prithvi; Ramsey-Goldman, Rosalind; Reveille, John D.; Russell, Laurie P.; Sabio, José M.; Aguilar-Salinas, Carlos A.; Scherbarth, Hugo R.; Scorza, Raffaella; Seldin, Michael F.; Sjöwall, Christopher; Svenungsson, Elisabet; Thompson, Susan D.; Toloza, Sergio M. A.; Truedsson, Lennart; Tusié-Luna, Teresa; Vasconcelos, Carlos; Vilá, Luis M.; Wallace, Daniel J.; Weisman, Michael H.; Wither, Joan E.; Bhangale, Tushar; Oksenberg, Jorge R.; Rioux, John D.; Gregersen, Peter K.; Syvänen, Ann-Christine; Rönnblom, Lars; Criswell, Lindsey A.; Jacob, Chaim O.; Sivils, Kathy L.; Tsao, Betty P.; Schanberg, Laura E.; Behrens, Timothy W.; Silverman, Earl D.; Alarcón-Riquelme, Marta E.; Kimberly, Robert P.; Harley, John B.; Wakeland, Edward K.; Graham, Robert R.; Gaffney, Patrick M.; Vyse, Timothy J.

2017-01-01

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease with marked gender and ethnic disparities. We report a large transancestral association study of SLE using Immunochip genotype data from 27,574 individuals of European (EA), African (AA) and Hispanic Amerindian (HA) ancestry. We identify 58 distinct non-HLA regions in EA, 9 in AA and 16 in HA (∼50% of these regions have multiple independent associations); these include 24 novel SLE regions (P<5 × 10−8), refined association signals in established regions, extended associations to additional ancestries, and a disentangled complex HLA multigenic effect. The risk allele count (genetic load) exhibits an accelerating pattern of SLE risk, leading us to posit a cumulative hit hypothesis for autoimmune disease. Comparing results across the three ancestries identifies both ancestry-dependent and ancestry-independent contributions to SLE risk. Our results are consistent with the unique and complex histories of the populations sampled, and collectively help clarify the genetic architecture and ethnic disparities in SLE. PMID:28714469

Chimeric Protein Complexes in Hybrid Species Generate Novel Phenotypes

PubMed Central

Piatkowska, Elzbieta M.; Naseeb, Samina; Knight, David; Delneri, Daniela

2013-01-01

Hybridization between species is an important mechanism for the origin of novel lineages and adaptation to new environments. Increased allelic variation and modification of the transcriptional network are the two recognized forces currently deemed to be responsible for the phenotypic properties seen in hybrids. However, since the majority of the biological functions in a cell are carried out by protein complexes, inter-specific protein assemblies therefore represent another important source of natural variation upon which evolutionary forces can act. Here we studied the composition of six protein complexes in two different Saccharomyces “sensu stricto” hybrids, to understand whether chimeric interactions can be freely formed in the cell in spite of species-specific co-evolutionary forces, and whether the different types of complexes cause a change in hybrid fitness. The protein assemblies were isolated from the hybrids via affinity chromatography and identified via mass spectrometry. We found evidence of spontaneous chimericity for four of the six protein assemblies tested and we showed that different types of complexes can cause a variety of phenotypes in selected environments. In the case of TRP2/TRP3 complex, the effect of such chimeric formation resulted in the fitness advantage of the hybrid in an environment lacking tryptophan, while only one type of parental combination of the MBF complex allowed the hybrid to grow under respiratory conditions. These phenotypes were dependent on both genetic and environmental backgrounds. This study provides empirical evidence that chimeric protein complexes can freely assemble in cells and reveals a new mechanism to generate phenotypic novelty and plasticity in hybrids to complement the genomic innovation resulting from gene duplication. The ability to exchange orthologous members has also important implications for the adaptation and subsequent genome evolution of the hybrids in terms of pattern of gene loss. PMID:24137105

BioEarth: Envisioning and developing a new regional earth system model to inform natural and agricultural resource management

DOE PAGES

Adam, Jennifer C.; Stephens, Jennie C.; Chung, Serena H.; ...

2014-04-24

Uncertainties in global change impacts, the complexities associated with the interconnected cycling of nitrogen, carbon, and water present daunting management challenges. Existing models provide detailed information on specific sub-systems (e.g., land, air, water, and economics). An increasing awareness of the unintended consequences of management decisions resulting from interconnectedness of these sub-systems, however, necessitates coupled regional earth system models (EaSMs). Decision makers’ needs and priorities can be integrated into the model design and development processes to enhance decision-making relevance and “usability” of EaSMs. BioEarth is a research initiative currently under development with a focus on the U.S. Pacific Northwest region thatmore » explores the coupling of multiple stand-alone EaSMs to generate usable information for resource decision-making. Direct engagement between model developers and non-academic stakeholders involved in resource and environmental management decisions throughout the model development process is a critical component of this effort. BioEarth utilizes a bottom-up approach for its land surface model that preserves fine spatial-scale sensitivities and lateral hydrologic connectivity, which makes it unique among many regional EaSMs. Here, we describe the BioEarth initiative and highlights opportunities and challenges associated with coupling multiple stand-alone models to generate usable information for agricultural and natural resource decision-making.« less

Correlation between gross anatomical topography, sectional sheet plastination, microscopic anatomy and endoanal sonography of the anal sphincter complex in human males

PubMed Central

Al-Ali, S; Blyth, P; Beatty, S; Duang, A; Parry, B; Bissett, I P

2009-01-01

This study elucidates the structure of the anal sphincter complex (ASC) and correlates the individual layers, namely the external anal sphincter (EAS), conjoint longitudinal muscle (CLM) and internal anal sphincter (IAS), with their ultrasonographic images. Eighteen male cadavers, with an average age of 72 years (range 62–82 years), were used in this study. Multiple methods were used including gross dissection, coronal and axial sheet plastination, different histological staining techniques and endoanal sonography. The EAS was a continuous layer but with different relations, an upper part (corresponding to the deep and superficial parts in the traditional description) and a lower (subcutaneous) part that was located distal to the IAS, and was the only muscle encircling the anal orifice below the IAS. The CLM was a fibro-fatty-muscular layer occupying the intersphincteric space and was continuous superiorly with the longitudinal muscle layer of the rectum. In its middle and lower parts it consisted of collagen and elastic fibres with fatty tissue filling the spaces between the fibrous septa. The IAS was a markedly thickened extension of the terminal circular smooth muscle layer of the rectum and it terminated proximal to the lower part of the EAS. On endoanal sonography, the EAS appeared as an irregular hyperechoic band; CLM was poorly represented by a thin irregular hyperechoic line and IAS was represented by a hypoechoic band. Data on the measurements of the thickness of the ASC layers are presented and vary between dissection and sonographic imaging. The layers of the ASC were precisely identified in situ, in sections, in isolated dissected specimens and the same structures were correlated with their sonographic appearance. The results of the measurements of ASC components in this study on male cadavers were variable, suggesting that these should be used with caution in diagnostic and management settings. PMID:19486204

Occupational exposure to intermediate frequency and extremely low frequency magnetic fields among personnel working near electronic article surveillance systems.

PubMed

Roivainen, Päivi; Eskelinen, Tuomo; Jokela, Kari; Juutilainen, Jukka

2014-05-01

Cashiers are potentially exposed to intermediate frequency (IF) magnetic fields at their workplaces because of the electronic article surveillance (EAS) systems used in stores to protect merchandise against theft. This study aimed at investigating occupational exposure of cashiers to IF magnetic fields in Finnish stores. Exposure to extremely low frequency (ELF) magnetic fields was also evaluated because cashiers work near various devices operating with 50 Hz electric power. The peak magnetic flux density was measured for IF magnetic fields, and was found to vary from 0.2 to 4 µT at the cashier's seat. ELF magnetic fields from 0.03 to 4.5 µT were found at the cashier's seat. These values are much lower than exposure limits. However, according to the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) occupational reference levels for IF magnetic fields (141 µT for the peak field) were exceeded in some cases (maximum 189 µT) for short periods of time when cashiers walked through the EAS gates. As the ICNIRP reference levels do not define any minimum time for exposure, additional investigations are recommended to determine compliance with basic restrictions. Even if the basic restrictions are not exceeded, persons working near EAS devices represent an exceptional group of workers with respect to exposure to electromagnetic fields. This group could serve as a basis for epidemiological studies addressing possible health effects of IF magnetic fields. Compliance with the reference levels for IF fields was evaluated using both broadband measurement of peak fields and the ICNIRP summation rule for multiple frequencies. The latter was generally more conservative, and the difference between the two methods was large (>10-fold) for EAS systems using a 58 kHz signal with complex waveform. This indicates that the ICNIRP multiple frequency rule can be unnecessarily conservative when measuring complex waveforms. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Isolation and Characterization of Five Erwinia amylovora Bacteriophages and Assessment of Phage Resistance in Strains of Erwinia amylovora

PubMed Central

Schnabel, Elise L.; Jones, Alan L.

2001-01-01

Phages able to infect the fire blight pathogen Erwinia amylovora were isolated from apple, pear, and raspberry tissues and from soil samples collected at sites displaying fire blight symptoms. Among a collection of 50 phage isolates, 5 distinct phages, including relatives of the previously described phages φEa1 and φEa7 and 3 novel phages named φEa100, φEa125, and φEa116C, were identified based on differences in genome size and restriction fragment pattern. φEa1, the phage distributed most widely, had an approximately 46-kb genome which exhibited some restriction site variability between isolates. Phages φEa100, φEa7, and φEa125 each had genomes of approximately 35 kb and could be distinguished by their EcoRI restriction fragment patterns. φEa116C contained an approximately 75-kb genome. φEa1, φEa7, φEa100, φEa125, and φEa116C were able to infect 39, 36, 16, 20, and 40, respectively, of 40 E. amylovora strains isolated from apple orchards in Michigan and 8, 12, 10, 10, and 12, respectively, of 12 E. amylovora strains isolated from raspberry fields (Rubus spp.) in Michigan. Only 22 of 52 strains were sensitive to all five phages, and 23 strains exhibited resistance to more than one phage. φEa116C was more effective than the other phages at lysing E. amylovora strain Ea110 in liquid culture, reducing the final titer of Ea110 by >95% when added at a ratio of 1 PFU per 10 CFU and by 58 to 90% at 1 PFU per 105 CFU. PMID:11133428

Performance comparisons between PCA-EA-LBG and PCA-LBG-EA approaches in VQ codebook generation for image compression

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsai, Jinn-Tsong; Chou, Ping-Yi; Chou, Jyh-Horng

2015-11-01

The aim of this study is to generate vector quantisation (VQ) codebooks by integrating principle component analysis (PCA) algorithm, Linde-Buzo-Gray (LBG) algorithm, and evolutionary algorithms (EAs). The EAs include genetic algorithm (GA), particle swarm optimisation (PSO), honey bee mating optimisation (HBMO), and firefly algorithm (FF). The study is to provide performance comparisons between PCA-EA-LBG and PCA-LBG-EA approaches. The PCA-EA-LBG approaches contain PCA-GA-LBG, PCA-PSO-LBG, PCA-HBMO-LBG, and PCA-FF-LBG, while the PCA-LBG-EA approaches contain PCA-LBG, PCA-LBG-GA, PCA-LBG-PSO, PCA-LBG-HBMO, and PCA-LBG-FF. All training vectors of test images are grouped according to PCA. The PCA-EA-LBG used the vectors grouped by PCA as initial individuals, and the best solution gained by the EAs was given for LBG to discover a codebook. The PCA-LBG approach is to use the PCA to select vectors as initial individuals for LBG to find a codebook. The PCA-LBG-EA used the final result of PCA-LBG as an initial individual for EAs to find a codebook. The search schemes in PCA-EA-LBG first used global search and then applied local search skill, while in PCA-LBG-EA first used local search and then employed global search skill. The results verify that the PCA-EA-LBG indeed gain superior results compared to the PCA-LBG-EA, because the PCA-EA-LBG explores a global area to find a solution, and then exploits a better one from the local area of the solution. Furthermore the proposed PCA-EA-LBG approaches in designing VQ codebooks outperform existing approaches shown in the literature.

Electroanatomic Mapping-Guided Catheter Ablation of Supraventricular Tachycardia in Children with Ebstein's Anomaly.

PubMed

Ergul, Yakup; Koca, Serhat; Akdeniz, Celal; Tuzcu, Volkan

2018-06-07

In Ebstein's anomaly (EA), tachycardia substrates are complex, and accessory pathway (AP) ablations are often challenging. This study demonstrates the utility of the EnSite Velocity system (St. Jude Medical, St Paul, MN) in the catheter ablation of supraventricular tachycardia in children with EA. Twenty patients [Female/Male = 8/12, median age 11.5 years (2.6-18)] with EA who underwent catheter ablation guided by the EnSite Velocity system between December 2011 and December 2016 were retrospectively evaluated. Five patients had severe EA, and two of them were at Fontan palliation pathway. The most common indications for ablations were palpitations/syncope and treatment-resistant arrhythmias. Thirty-one tachycardia substrate foci (21 manifest AP, 2 concealed AP, 4 Mahaim AP, 3 focal atrial tachycardias, and 1 typical atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia) were detected in 20 patients. There were multiple tachycardia substrates in 11 patients (55%). The patient-based acute procedure success rate was 19/20 (95%), and the tachycardia-based success rate was 30/31 (97%). The mean procedure time was 170 ± 43 min (90-265). Fluoroscopy was not used in 15 (75%) patients. The mean fluoroscopy time in the remaining five patients was 3.6 ± 2.9 min (0.7-7.8). During a mean follow-up of 35.1 ± 20.3 months (6-60), tachycardia recurred in four patients (4/19, 21%). No complications were seen. Catheter ablation of arrhythmias can be performed effectively and safely in pediatric EA patients by using a limited fluoroscopic approach with the help of electroanatomical mapping systems. However, the rate of tachycardia recurrence at follow-up remains high.

A cross-culture, cross-gender comparison of perspective taking mechanisms.

PubMed

Kessler, Klaus; Cao, Liyu; O'Shea, Kieran J; Wang, Hongfang

2014-06-22

Being able to judge another person's visuo-spatial perspective is an essential social skill, hence we investigated the generalizability of the involved mechanisms across cultures and genders. Developmental, cross-species, and our own previous research suggest that two different forms of perspective taking can be distinguished, which are subserved by two distinct mechanisms. The simpler form relies on inferring another's line-of-sight, whereas the more complex form depends on embodied transformation into the other's orientation in form of a simulated body rotation. Our current results suggest that, in principle, the same basic mechanisms are employed by males and females in both, East-Asian (EA; Chinese) and Western culture. However, we also confirmed the hypothesis that Westerners show an egocentric bias, whereas EAs reveal an other-oriented bias. Furthermore, Westerners were slower overall than EAs and showed stronger gender differences in speed and depth of embodied processing. Our findings substantiate differences and communalities in social cognition mechanisms across genders and two cultures and suggest that cultural evolution or transmission should take gender as a modulating variable into account.

Soft pneumatic grippers embedded with stretchable electroadhesion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, J.; Elgeneidy, K.; Xiang, C.; Lohse, N.; Justham, L.; Rossiter, J.

2018-05-01

Current soft pneumatic grippers cannot robustly grasp flat materials and flexible objects on curved surfaces without distorting them. Current electroadhesive grippers, on the other hand, are difficult to actively deform to complex shapes to pick up free-form surfaces or objects. An easy-to-implement PneuEA gripper is proposed by the integration of an electroadhesive gripper and a two-fingered soft pneumatic gripper. The electroadhesive gripper was fabricated by segmenting a soft conductive silicon sheet into a two-part electrode design and embedding it in a soft dielectric elastomer. The two-fingered soft pneumatic gripper was manufactured using a standard soft lithography approach. This novel integration has combined the benefits of both the electroadhesive and soft pneumatic grippers. As a result, the proposed PneuEA gripper was not only able to pick-and-place flat and flexible materials such as a porous cloth but also delicate objects such as a light bulb. By combining two soft touch sensors with the electroadhesive, an intelligent and shape-adaptive PneuEA material handling system has been developed. This work is expected to widen the applications of both soft gripper and electroadhesion technologies.

Dietary enzymatically treated Artemisia annua L. supplementation alleviates liver oxidative injury of broilers reared under high ambient temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wan, Xiaoli; Zhang, Jingfei; He, Jintian; Bai, Kaiwen; Zhang, Lili; Wang, Tian

2017-09-01

Heat stress induced by high ambient temperature is a major concern in commercial broiler production. To evaluate the effects of dietary enzymatically treated Artemisia annua L. (EA) supplementation on growth performance and liver oxidative injury of broilers reared under heat stress, a total of 320 22-day-old male broilers were randomly allotted into five groups with eight replicates of eight birds each. Broilers in the control group were housed at 22 ± 1 °C and fed the basal diet. Broilers in the HS, HS-EA1, HS-EA2, and HS-EA3 groups were fed basal diet supplemented with 0, 0.75, 1.00, and 1.25 g/kg EA, respectively, and reared under cyclic high temperature (34 ± 1 °C for 8 h/day and 22 ± 1 °C for 16 h/day). Broilers fed EA diets had higher final body weight, average daily body weight gain, and average daily feed intake, as well as liver concentration of reduced glutathione, activities of antioxidant enzymes, abilities to inhibit hydroxyl radical and superoxide radical (HS-EA2 and HS-EA3), and lower liver concentrations of reactive oxygen metabolites, malondialdehyde, and protein carbonyl (HS-EA1, HS-EA2, and HS-EA3) than HS group ( P < 0.05). EA treatment downregulated the mRNA levels of heat shock proteins 70 and 90, upregulated the mRNA levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (HS-EA1, HS-EA2, and HS-EA3) and heme oxygenase 1 (HS-EA2 and HS-EA3) in liver of heat-treated broilers ( P < 0.05). In conclusion, EA alleviated heat stress-induced growth depression and liver oxidative injury in broilers, possibly through improving the antioxidant capacity and regulating the pertinent mRNA expression. The appropriate inclusion level of EA in broiler diet is 1.00-1.25 g/kg.

Genotoxic effect of ethacrynic acid and impact of antioxidants

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

Ward, William M.; Hoffman, Jared D.; Loo, George, E-mail: g_loo@uncg.edu

It is known that ethacrynic acid (EA) decreases the intracellular levels of glutathione. Whether the anticipated oxidative stress affects the structural integrity of DNA is unknown. Therefore, DNA damage was assessed in EA-treated HCT116 cells, and the impact of several antioxidants was also determined. EA caused both concentration-dependent and time-dependent DNA damage that eventually resulted in cell death. Unexpectedly, the DNA damage caused by EA was intensified by either ascorbic acid or trolox. In contrast, EA-induced DNA damage was reduced by N-acetylcysteine and by the iron chelator, deferoxamine. In elucidating the DNA damage, it was determined that EA increased themore » production of reactive oxygen species, which was inhibited by N-acetylcysteine and deferoxamine but not by ascorbic acid and trolox. Also, EA decreased glutathione levels, which were inhibited by N-acetylcysteine. But, ascorbic acid, trolox, and deferoxamine neither inhibited nor enhanced the capacity of EA to decrease glutathione. Interestingly, the glutathione synthesis inhibitor, buthionine sulfoxime, lowered glutathione to a similar degree as EA, but no noticeable DNA damage was found. Nevertheless, buthionine sulfoxime potentiated the glutathione-lowering effect of EA and intensified the DNA damage caused by EA. Additionally, in examining redox-sensitive stress gene expression, it was found that EA increased HO-1, GADD153, and p21mRNA expression, in association with increased nuclear localization of Nrf-2 and p53 proteins. In contrast to ascorbic acid, trolox, and deferoxamine, N-acetylcysteine suppressed the EA-induced upregulation of GADD153, although not of HO-1. Overall, it is concluded that EA has genotoxic properties that can be amplified by certain antioxidants. - Highlights: • Ethacrynic acid (EA) caused cellular DNA damage. • EA-induced DNA damage was potentiated by ascorbic acid or trolox. • EA increased ROS production, not inhibited by ascorbic acid or trolox. • EA decreased glutathione levels, not prevented by ascorbic acid or trolox. • Buthionine sulfoxime intensified the DNA damage caused by EA.« less

47 CFR 11.51 - EAS code and Attention Signal Transmission requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false EAS code and Attention Signal Transmission... SYSTEM (EAS) Emergency Operations § 11.51 EAS code and Attention Signal Transmission requirements. (a... programming before EAS message transmission should not cause television receivers to mute EAS audio messages...

47 CFR 11.56 - EAS Participants receive CAP-formatted alerts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false EAS Participants receive CAP-formatted alerts... SYSTEM (EAS) Emergency Operations § 11.56 EAS Participants receive CAP-formatted alerts. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, all EAS Participants must be able to receive CAP-formatted EAS alerts no...

Functional Hybrid Materials Based on Manganese Dioxide and Lignin Activated by Ionic Liquids and Their Application in the Production of Lithium Ion Batteries

PubMed Central

Klapiszewski, Łukasz; Szalaty, Tadeusz J.; Kurc, Beata; Stanisz, Małgorzata; Skrzypczak, Andrzej; Jesionowski, Teofil

2017-01-01

Kraft lignin (KL) was activated using selected ionic liquids (ILs). The activated form of the biopolymer, due to the presence of carbonyl groups, can be used in electrochemical tests. To increase the application potential of the system in electrochemistry, activated lignin forms were combined with manganese dioxide, and the most important physicochemical and morphological-microstructural properties of the novel, functional hybrid systems were determined using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), elemental analysis (EA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), zeta potential analysis, thermal stability (TGA/DTG) and porous structure analysis. An investigation was also made of the practical application of the hybrid materials in the production of lithium ion batteries. The capacity of the anode (MnO2/activated lignin), working at a low current regime of 50 mA·g−1, was ca. 610 mAh·g−1, while a current of 1000 mA·g−1 resulted in a capacity of 570 mAh·g−1. Superior cyclic stability and rate capability indicate that this may be a promising electrode material for use in high-performance lithium ion batteries. PMID:28704933

Simultaneous application of microwave energy and hot air to whole drying process of apple slices: drying kinetics, modeling, temperature profile and energy aspect

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Horuz, Erhan; Bozkurt, Hüseyin; Karataş, Haluk; Maskan, Medeni

2018-02-01

Drying kinetics, modeling, temperature profile and energy indices were investigated in apple slices during drying by a specially designed microwave-hot air domestic hybrid oven at the following conditions: 120, 150 and 180 W microwave powers coupled with 50, 60 and 70 °C air temperatures. Both sources of energy were applied simultaneously during the whole drying processes. The drying process continued until the moisture content of apple slices reached to 20% from 86.3% (wet basis, w.b). Drying times ranged from 330 to 800 min and decreased with increasing microwave power and air temperatures. The constant rate period was only observed at low microwave powers and air temperatures. Two falling rate periods were observed. Temperature of apple slices sharply increased within the first 60 min, then reached equilibrium with drying medium and finally increased at the end of the drying process. In order to describe drying behavior of apple slices nine empirical models were applied. The Modified Logistic Model fitted the best our experimental data ( R 2 = 0.9955-0.9998; χ 2 = 3.46 × 10-5-7.85 × 10-4 and RMSE = 0.0052-0.0221). The effective moisture and thermal diffusivities were calculated by Fick's second law and ranged from 1.42 × 10-9 to 3.31 × 10-9 m2/s and 7.70 × 10-9 to 12.54 × 10-9 m2/s, respectively. The activation energy ( Ea) values were calculated from effective moisture diffusivity ( Deff), thermal diffusivity ( α) and the rate constant of the best model ( k). The Ea values found from these three terms were similar and varied from 13.04 to 33.52 kJ/mol. Energy consumption and specific energy requirement of the hybrid drying of apple slices decreased and energy efficiency of the drying system increased with increasing microwave power and air temperature. Apples can be dried rapidly and effectively by use of the hybrid technique.

Human T cell activation. III. Induction of an early activation antigen, EA 1 by TPA, mitogens and antigens

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

Hara, T.; Jung, L.K.L.; FU, S.M.

1986-03-01

With human T cells activated for 12 hours by 12-o-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13-acetate (TPA) as immunogen, an IgG/sub 2a/ monoclonal antibody, mAb Ea 1, has been generated to a 60KD phosphorylated protein with 32KD and 28KD subunits. The antigen, Ea 1, is readily detected on 60% of isolated thymocytes by indirect immunofluorescence. A low level of Ea 1 expression is detectable on 2-6% of blood lymphocytes. Isolated T cells have been induced to express Ea 1 by TPA, mitogens and anitgens. TPA activated T cells express Ea 1 as early as 1 hour after activation. By 4 hours, greater than 95% ofmore » the T cells stain with mAb Ea 1. About 50% of the PHA or Con A activated T cells express Ea 1 with a similar kinetics. Ea 1 expression proceeds that of IL-2 receptor in these activation processes. T cells activated by soluble antigens (tetanus toxoid and PPD) and alloantigens in MLR also express Ea 1 after a long incubation. About 20% of the T cells stain for Ea 1 at day 6. Ea 1 expression is not limited to activated T cells. B cells activated by TPA or anti-IgM Ab plus B cell growth factor express Ea 1. The kinetics of Ea 1 expression is slower and the staining is less intense. Repeated attempts to detect Ea 1 on resting and activated monocytes and granulocytes have not been successful. Ea 1 expression is due to de novo synthesis for its induction is blocked by cycloheximide and actinomycin D. Ea 1 is the earliest activation antigen detectable to-date.« less

Ground Combat Training Squadron Complex Final Environmental Assessment

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-08-01

Std Z39-18 FINAL FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT FROM CONSTRUCTION OF THE GROUND COMBAT TRAINING SQUADRON COMPLEX AT EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE...of and Adjacent to the Triangle (EA Section 2.4.1, Page 2-10): This location was eliminated due to possibly unavoidable impacts to wetlands, which run...through part of this site. To eliminate any potential for impacts to wetlands, this alternative was dismissed. Training in an Area Northwest of

Transformation of lymphocytes by Herpesvirus papio.

PubMed

Falk, L A; Henle, G; Henle, W; Deinhardt, F; Schudel, A

1977-08-15

Cotton-topped (CT) or white-lipped (WL) marmoset lymphocytes were transformed in vitro with herpesvirus papio (HVP) into permanently growing lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCL). Five of 9 HVP-transformed CT cell lines contained cells with antigens reacting with antibodies to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) capsid antigen (VCA) and/or to EBV-induced early antigens (EA). None of 12 WL LCL revealed such antigen-producing cells. Cells from both groups of cultures failed to react with antibodies to the EBV-specified nuclear antigen (EBNA). Exposure of baboon circulating lymphocytes to X-irradiated HVP or EBV-carring cells, or to suspensions of EBV resulted in establishment of LCL which all contained VCA and/or EA-positive, but no EBNA-positive cells. Nuclear antigens were undetectable also with anti-VCA-positive sera from baboons, chimpanzees, or other non-human primates. DNA-complementary RNA (cRNA) filter hybridization with EBV cRNA showed that with one exception transformed CT or WL marmoset cells contained at least 1-2 virus genome equivalents per cell, while at least 12-25 virus genome equivalents per cell were detected in transformed baboon cells. These data need confirmation by DNA-DNA reassociation kinetics.

Insights into the genetics of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and GERD-related disorders.

PubMed

Böhmer, A C; Schumacher, J

2017-02-01

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is associated with obesity and hiatal hernia, and often precedes the development of Barrett's esophagus (BE) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA). Epidemiological studies show that the global prevalence of GERD is increasing. GERD is a multifactorial disease with a complex genetic architecture. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have provided initial insights into the genetic background of GERD. The present review summarizes current knowledge of the genetics of GERD and a possible genetic overlap between GERD and BE and EA. The review discusses genes and cellular pathways that have been implicated through GWAS, and provides an outlook on how future molecular research will enhance understanding of GERD pathophysiology. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Studies of a new hybrid taxon in the Artemisia tridentata (Asteraceae: Anthemideae) complex

Treesearch

Heather D. Garrison; Leila M. Shultz; E. Durant McArthur

2013-01-01

Members of the Artemisia tridentata complex (ASTERACEAE: Anthemideae: Artemisia subgen. Tridentatae) have adapted to changing environmental conditions through geographic migration, introgression, and hybridization. These processes have resulted in morphologic and genetic variation. A presumed hybrid ("Bonneville" big sagebrush) of the complex occurs in the...

Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide of Patients With Psychiatric Disorders in the Netherlands 2011 to 2014.

PubMed

Kim, Scott Y H; De Vries, Raymond G; Peteet, John R

2016-04-01

Euthanasia or assisted suicide (EAS) of psychiatric patients is increasing in some jurisdictions such as Belgium and the Netherlands. However, little is known about the practice, and it remains controversial. To describe the characteristics of patients receiving EAS for psychiatric conditions and how the practice is regulated in the Netherlands. This investigation reviewed psychiatric EAS case summaries made available online by the Dutch regional euthanasia review committees as of June 1, 2015. Two senior psychiatrists used directed content analysis to review and code the reports. In total, 66 cases from 2011 to 2014 were reviewed. Clinical and social characteristics of patients, physician review process of the patients' requests, and the euthanasia review committees' assessments of the physicians' actions. Of the 66 cases reviewed, 70% (n = 46) were women. In total, 32% (n = 21) were 70 years or older, 44% (n = 29) were 50 to 70 years old, and 24% (n = 16) were 30 to 50 years old. Most had chronic, severe conditions, with histories of attempted suicides and psychiatric hospitalizations. Most had personality disorders and were described as socially isolated or lonely. Depressive disorders were the primary psychiatric issue in 55% (n = 36) of cases. Other conditions represented were psychotic, posttraumatic stress or anxiety, somatoform, neurocognitive, and eating disorders, as well as prolonged grief and autism. Comorbidities with functional impairments were common. Forty-one percent (n = 27) of physicians performing EAS were psychiatrists. Twenty-seven percent (n = 18) of patients received the procedure from physicians new to them, 14 of whom were physicians from the End-of-Life Clinic, a mobile euthanasia clinic. Consultation with other physicians was extensive, but 11% (n = 7) of cases had no independent psychiatric input, and 24% (n = 16) of cases involved disagreement among consultants. The euthanasia review committees found that one case failed to meet legal due care criteria. Persons receiving EAS for psychiatric disorders in the Netherlands are mostly women and of diverse ages, with complex and chronic psychiatric, medical, and psychosocial histories. The granting of their EAS requests appears to involve considerable physician judgment, usually involving multiple physicians who do not always agree (sometimes without independent psychiatric input), but the euthanasia review committees generally defer to the judgments of the physicians performing the EAS.

The Future of Small Navy Ship Sickbays and Army Aeromedical Evacuation Aircraft

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-12-01

HEAT SEALING W/PO 1 EA 9B 715 6685015840785 MONITOR, HEAT STRESS 2 EA 9B 715 6670010976167 SCALE,WEIGHING 1 EA 9B 715 6530016200664 STERILIZER M11...ELECTRONIC THERMOMETER SURE TEMP PLUS 1 EA 9B 515 6685015840785 MONITOR, HEAT STRESS 2 EA 9B 515 6135015308136 BATTERY POWER SOURCE NON...6685015840785 MONITOR, HEAT STRESS 2 EA 9B 315 6530016200664 STERILIZER M11 ULTRACLAVE 115V AUTOMATIC DOOR 1 EA 9B 315 6685015816875 CALIBRATION KEY

Environmental assessment in The Netherlands: Effectively governing environmental protection? A discourse analysis

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

Runhaar, Hens, E-mail: h.a.c.runhaar@uu.nl; Laerhoven, Frank van, E-mail: vanLaerhoven@uu.nl; Driessen, Peter, E-mail: p.driessen@uu.nl

Environmental assessment (EA) aims to enhance environmental awareness and to ensure that environmental values are fully considered in decision-making. In the EA arena, different discourses exist on what EA should aim for and how it functions. We hypothesise that these discourses influence its application in practice as well as its effectiveness in terms of achieving the above goals. For instance, actors who consider EA as a hindrance to fast implementation of their projects will probably apply it as a mandatory checklist, whereas actors who believe that EA can help to develop more environmentally sound decisions will use EIA as amore » tool to design their initiatives. In this paper we explore discourses on EA in The Netherlands and elaborate on their implications for EA effectiveness. Based on an innovative research design comprising an online survey with 443 respondents and 20 supplementary semi-structured interviews we conclude that the dominant discourse is that EA is mainly a legal requirement; EAs are conducted because they have to be conducted, not because actors choose to do so. EA effectiveness however seems reasonably high, as a majority of respondents perceive that it enhances environmental awareness and contributes to environmental protection. However, the 'legal requirement' discourse also results in decision-makers seldom going beyond what is prescribed by EA and environmental law. Despite its mandatory character, the predominant attitude towards EA is quite positive. For most respondents, EA is instrumental in providing transparency of decision-making and in minimising the legal risks of not complying with environmental laws. Differences in discourses seldom reflect extreme opposites. The 'common ground' regarding EA provides a good basis for working with EA in terms of meeting legal requirements but at the same time does not stimulate creativity in decision-making or optimisation of environmental values. In countries characterised by less consensual political cultures we may expect more extreme discourses on EA, the consequences of which are reflected upon in this paper. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The effectiveness of environmental assessment (EA) depends in part on meanings associated with EA (i.e., discourse). Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Our results suggest that the general discourse in The Netherlands is that EA is a legal requirement, nothing more. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer This discourse makes EA effective in protecting the environment, but not in the optimisation of environmental values. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer EA has a limited contribution to the development of policy alternatives or innovative solutions to environmental problems. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer There is a high consensus among EA professionals, providing a common ground for working with EA.« less

Comparison of absolute intensity between EAS with gamma-families and general EAS at Mount Norikura

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mitsumune, T.; Nakatsuka, T.; Nishikawa, K.; Saito, T.; Sakata, M.; Shima, M.; Yamamoto, Y.; Dake, S.; Kawamoto, M.; Kusumose, M.

1985-01-01

Gamma-families with total energy greater than 10 TeV, found in the EX chamber which was cooperated with the EAS array were combined with EAS triggered by big bursts. The absolute intensity of the size spectrum of these combined EAS was compared with that of general EAS obtained by AS trigger. The EAS with sizes greater than 2x1 million were always accompanied by gamma-families with sigma E sub gamma H 10 TeV, n sub gamma, H 2 and Emin=3 TeV, although the rate of EAS accompaning such gamma-families decreases rapidly as their sizes decrease.

Combined Endometrial Ablation and Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System Use in Women With Dysmenorrhea and Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Novel Approach for Challenging Cases.

PubMed

Papadakis, Efstathios P; El-Nashar, Sherif A; Laughlin-Tommaso, Shannon K; Shazly, Sherif A M; Hopkins, Matthew R; Breitkopf, Daniel M; Famuyide, Abimbola O

2015-01-01

To evaluate the feasibility and impact of levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) on treatment failure after endometrial ablation (EA) in women with heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) and dysmenorrhea at 4 years. Cohort study (Canadian Task Force II-2). An academic institution in the upper Midwest. All women with HMB and dysmenorrhea who underwent EA with combined placement of LNG-IUS (EA/LNG-IUS cohort, 23 women) after 2005 and an historic reference group from women who had EA alone (EA cohort, 65 women) from 1998 through the end of 2005. Radiofrequency EA, thermal balloon ablation, and LNG-IUS. The primary outcome was treatment failure defined as persistent pain, bleeding, and hysterectomy after EA at 4 years. The combined treatment failure outcome was documented in 2 patients (8.7%) in the EA/LNG-IUS group and 19 patients (29.2%) in the EA group with an unadjusted OR of .23 (95% CI, .05-1.08). After adjusting for known risk factors of failure, the adjusted OR was .19 (95% CI, .26-.88). None of the women who underwent EA/LNG-IUS had hysterectomy for treatment failure compared with 16 (24%) in the EA group (p = .009); postablation pelvic pain was documented in 1 woman (4.3%) in the EA/LNG-IUS group compared with 8 women (12.3%) in the EA group (p = .24). One woman in the EA/LNG-IUS group (4.3%) presented with persistent bleeding compared with 15 (23.1%) in the EA group (p = .059). Office removal of the intrauterine device was performed in 4 women with no complications. LNG-IUS insertion at the time of EA is feasible and can provide added benefit after EA in women with dysmenorrhea and HMB. Copyright © 2015 AAGL. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Abnormalities in arterial-ventricular coupling in older healthy persons are attenuated by sodium nitroprusside

PubMed Central

Chantler, Paul D.; Nussbacher, Amit; Gerstenblith, Gary; Schulman, Steven P.; Becker, Lewis C.; Ferrucci, Luigi; Fleg, Jerome L.; Najjar, Samer S.

2011-01-01

The coupling between arterial elastance (EA; net afterload) and left ventricular elastance (ELV; pump performance), known as EA/ELV, is a key determinant of cardiovascular performance and shifts during exercise due to a greater increase in ELV versus EA. This normal exercise-induced reduction in EA/ELV decreases with advancing age. We hypothesized that sodium nitroprusside (SNP) can acutely ameliorate the age-associated deficits in EA/ELV. At rest and during graded exercise to exhaustion, EA was characterized as end-systolic pressure/stroke volume and ELV as end-systolic pressure/end-systolic volume. Resting EA/ELV did not differ between old (70 ± 8 yr, n = 15) and young (30 ± 5 yr, n = 17) subjects because of a tandem increase in EA and ELV in older subjects. During peak exercise, a blunted increase in ELV in old (7.8 ± 3.1 mmHg/ml) versus young (11.4 ± 6.5 mmHg/ml) subjects blunted the normal exercise-induced decline in EA/ELV in old (0.25 ± 0.11) versus young (0.16 ± 0.05) subjects. SNP administration to older subjects lowered resting EA/ELV by 31% via a reduction in EA (10%) and an increase in ELV (47%) and lowered peak exercise EA/ELV (36%) via an increase in ELV (68%) without a change in EA. Importantly, SNP attenuated the age-associated deficits in EA/ELV and ELV during exercise, and at peak exercise EA/ELV in older subjects on drug administration did not differ from young subjects without drug administration. In conclusion, some age-associated deficiencies in EA/ELV, EA, and ELV, in older subjects can be acutely abolished by SNP infusion. This is relevant to common conditions in older subjects associated with a significant impairment of exercise performance such as frailty or heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. PMID:21378146

[A comparative study of effects of electroacupuncture with different stimulation parameters on medicine-induced abortion].

PubMed

Ma, Liang-xiao; Yang, Fang; Zhu, Jiang; He, Zhi-ping; Chen, Yan; Xu, Hong-yan; Liu, Yu-qi; Chen, Yin-ying

2008-07-01

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) with different stimulation parameters on medicine-induced abortion. One hundred and nine cases of early pregnancy who asked medicine-induced abortion were allocated to an EA group A (n = 37), an EA group B (n = 38) and a medication group (n = 34). Within 30-60 min after oral administration of Misoprostol, in the EA group A, EA was given at bilateral Hegu (LI 4) and Sanyinjiao (SP 6) with cluster waves of 100 Hz and in the EA group B, EA was given at Hegu (LI 4) for 20 min and then at Sanyinjiao (SP 6) for 5 min with continuous waves of 50 Hz. EA was not given to the medication group. The complete abortion rate, duration of eliminating embryonic sac, colporrhagia lasting time and abdominal pain condition were recorded. The complete abortion rate was 91.9% in the EA group A and 86.8% in the EA group B, which were higher than 82.4% in the medication group, with no significant differences between the 3 groups (P>0.05); the duration of eliminating embryonic sac and the colporrhagia lasting time in the two EA groups were significantly shorter than those in the medication group (P<0.05, P<0.01); alleviation of abdominal pain in the EA group B was better than the medication group (P<0.01) and the EA group A (P<0.05). Different stimulation parameters of EA have different effects on abortion.

Repetitive Electroacupuncture Attenuates Cold-Induced Hypertension through Enkephalin in the Rostral Ventral Lateral Medulla.

PubMed

Li, Min; Tjen-A-Looi, Stephanie C; Guo, Zhi-Ling; Longhurst, John C

2016-10-24

Acupuncture lowers blood pressure (BP) in hypertension, but mechanisms underlying its action are unclear. To simulate clinical studies, we performed electroacupuncture (EA) in unanesthetized rats with cold-induced hypertension (CIH) induced by six weeks of cold exposure (6 °C). EA (0.1 - 0.4 mA, 2 Hz) was applied at ST36-37 acupoints overlying the deep peroneal nerve for 30 min twice weekly for five weeks while sham-EA was conducted with the same procedures as EA except for no electrical stimulation. Elevated BP was reduced after six sessions of EA treatment and remained low 72 hrs after EA in 18 CIH rats, but not in sham-EA (n = 12) and untreated (n = 6) CIH ones. The mRNA level of preproenkephalin in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (rVLM) 72 hr after EA was increased (n = 9), compared to the sham-EA (n = 6), untreated CIH rats (n = 6) and normotensive control animals (n = 6). Microinjection of ICI 174,864, a δ-opioid receptor antagonist, into the rVLM of EA-treated CIH rats partially reversed EA's effect on elevated BP (n = 4). Stimulation of rVLM of CIH rats treated with sham-EA using a δ-opioid agonist, DADLE, decreased BP (n = 6). These data suggest that increased enkephalin in the rVLM induced by repetitive EA contributes to BP lowering action of EA.

Ubiquitin Ligase RNF138 Promotes Episodic Ataxia Type 2-Associated Aberrant Degradation of Human Cav2.1 (P/Q-Type) Calcium Channels.

PubMed

Fu, Ssu-Ju; Jeng, Chung-Jiuan; Ma, Chia-Hao; Peng, Yi-Jheng; Lee, Chi-Ming; Fang, Ya-Ching; Lee, Yi-Ching; Tang, Sung-Chun; Hu, Meng-Chun; Tang, Chih-Yung

2017-03-01

Voltage-gated Ca V 2.1 channels comprise a pore-forming α 1A subunit with auxiliary α 2 δ and β subunits. Ca V 2.1 channels play an essential role in regulating synaptic signaling. Mutations in the human gene encoding the Ca V 2.1 subunit are associated with the cerebellar disease episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2). Several EA2-causing mutants exhibit impaired protein stability and exert dominant-negative suppression of Ca V 2.1 wild-type (WT) protein expression via aberrant proteasomal degradation. Here, we set out to delineate the protein degradation mechanism of human Ca V 2.1 subunit by identifying RNF138, an E3 ubiquitin ligase, as a novel Ca V 2.1-binding partner. In neurons, RNF138 and Ca V 2.1 coexist in the same protein complex and display notable subcellular colocalization at presynaptic and postsynaptic regions. Overexpression of RNF138 promotes polyubiquitination and accelerates protein turnover of Ca V 2.1. Disrupting endogenous RNF138 function with a mutant (RNF138-H36E) or shRNA infection significantly upregulates the Ca V 2.1 protein level and enhances Ca V 2.1 protein stability. Disrupting endogenous RNF138 function also effectively rescues the defective protein expression of EA2 mutants, as well as fully reversing EA2 mutant-induced excessive proteasomal degradation of Ca V 2.1 WT subunits. RNF138-H36E coexpression only partially restores the dominant-negative effect of EA2 mutants on Ca V 2.1 WT functional expression, which can be attributed to defective membrane trafficking of Ca V 2.1 WT in the presence of EA2 mutants. We propose that RNF138 plays a critical role in the homeostatic regulation of Ca V 2.1 protein level and functional expression and that RNF138 serves as the primary E3 ubiquitin ligase promoting EA2-associated aberrant degradation of human Ca V 2.1 subunits. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Loss-of-function mutations in the human Ca V 2.1 subunit are linked to episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2), a dominantly inherited disease characterized by paroxysmal attacks of ataxia and nystagmus. EA2-causing mutants may exert dominant-negative effects on the Ca V 2.1 wild-type subunit via aberrant proteasomal degradation. The molecular nature of the Ca V 2.1 ubiquitin-proteasome degradation pathway is currently unknown. The present study reports the first identification of an E3 ubiquitin ligase for Ca V 2.1, RNF138. Ca V 2.1 protein stability is dynamically regulated by RNF138 and auxiliary α 2 δ and β subunits. We provide a proof of concept that protecting the human Ca V 2.1 subunit from excessive proteasomal degradation with specific interruption of endogenous RNF138 function may partially contribute to the future development of a novel therapeutic strategy for EA2 patients. Copyright © 2017 the authors 0270-6474/17/372485-19$15.00/0.

Initial Results from an Energy-Aware Airborne Dynamic, Data-Driven Application System Performing Sampling in Coherent Boundary-Layer Structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frew, E.; Argrow, B. M.; Houston, A. L.; Weiss, C.

2014-12-01

The energy-aware airborne dynamic, data-driven application system (EA-DDDAS) performs persistent sampling in complex atmospheric conditions by exploiting wind energy using the dynamic data-driven application system paradigm. The main challenge for future airborne sampling missions is operation with tight integration of physical and computational resources over wireless communication networks, in complex atmospheric conditions. The physical resources considered here include sensor platforms, particularly mobile Doppler radar and unmanned aircraft, the complex conditions in which they operate, and the region of interest. Autonomous operation requires distributed computational effort connected by layered wireless communication. Onboard decision-making and coordination algorithms can be enhanced by atmospheric models that assimilate input from physics-based models and wind fields derived from multiple sources. These models are generally too complex to be run onboard the aircraft, so they need to be executed in ground vehicles in the field, and connected over broadband or other wireless links back to the field. Finally, the wind field environment drives strong interaction between the computational and physical systems, both as a challenge to autonomous path planning algorithms and as a novel energy source that can be exploited to improve system range and endurance. Implementation details of a complete EA-DDDAS will be provided, along with preliminary flight test results targeting coherent boundary-layer structures.

Cellulose production, activated by cyclic di-GMP through BcsA and BcsZ, is a virulence factor and an essential determinant of the three-dimensional architectures of biofilms formed by Erwinia amylovora Ea1189.

PubMed

Castiblanco, Luisa F; Sundin, George W

2018-01-01

Bacterial biofilms are multicellular aggregates encased in an extracellular matrix mainly composed of exopolysaccharides (EPSs), protein and nucleic acids, which determines the architecture of the biofilm. Erwinia amylovora Ea1189 forms a biofilm inside the xylem of its host, which results in vessel plugging and water transport impairment. The production of the EPSs amylovoran and levan is critical for the formation of a mature biofilm. In addition, cyclic dimeric GMP (c-di-GMP) has been reported to positively regulate amylovoran biosynthesis and biofilm formation in E. amylovora Ea1189. In this study, we demonstrate that cellulose is synthesized by E. amylovora Ea1189 and is a major modulator of the three-dimensional characteristics of biofilms formed by this bacterium, and also contributes to virulence during systemic host invasion. In addition, we demonstrate that the activation of cellulose biosynthesis in E. amylovora is a c-di-GMP-dependent process, through allosteric binding to the cellulose catalytic subunit BcsA. We also report that the endoglucanase BcsZ is a key player in c-di-GMP activation of cellulose biosynthesis. Our results provide evidence of the complex composition of the extracellular matrix produced by E. amylovora and the implications of cellulose biosynthesis in shaping the architecture of the biofilm and in the expression of one of the main virulence phenotypes of this pathogen. © 2016 BSPP AND JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD.

Energetic arousal and language: predictions from the computational theory of quantifiers processing.

PubMed

Zajenkowski, Marcin

2013-10-01

The author examines the relationship between energetic arousal (EA) and the processing of sentences containing natural-language quantifiers. Previous studies and theories have shown that energy may differentially affect various cognitive functions. Recent investigations devoted to quantifiers strongly support the theory that various types of quantifiers involve different cognitive functions in the sentence-picture verification task. In the present study, 201 students were presented with a sentence-picture verification task consisting of simple propositions containing a quantifier that referred to the color of a car on display. Color pictures of cars accompanied the propositions. In addition, the level of participants' EA was measured before and after the verification task. It was found that EA and performance on proportional quantifiers (e.g., "More than half of the cars are red") are in an inverted U-shaped relationship. This result may be explained by the fact that proportional sentences engage working memory to a high degree, and previous models of EA-cognition associations have been based on the assumption that tasks that require parallel attentional and memory processes are best performed when energy is moderate. The research described in the present article has several applications, as it shows the optimal human conditions for verbal comprehension. For instance, it may be important in workplace design to control the level of arousal experienced by office staff when work is mostly related to the processing of complex texts. Energy level may be influenced by many factors, such as noise, time of day, or thermal conditions.

The effects of opioid receptor antagonists on electroacupuncture-produced anti-allodynia/hyperalgesia in rats with paclitaxel-evoked peripheral neuropathy.

PubMed

Meng, Xianze; Zhang, Yu; Li, Aihui; Xin, Jiajia; Lao, Lixing; Ren, Ke; Berman, Brian M; Tan, Ming; Zhang, Rui-Xin

2011-09-26

Research supports the effectiveness of acupuncture for conditions such as chronic low back and knee pain. In a five-patient pilot study the modality also improved the symptoms of chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain. Using an established rat model of paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy, we evaluated the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on paclitaxel-induced hyperalgesia and allodynia that has not been studied in an animal model. We hypothesize that EA would relieve the paclitaxel-induced mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia, which was assessed 30 min after EA using von Frey filaments. Beginning on day 13, the response frequency to von Frey filaments (4-15 g) was significantly increased in paclitaxel-injected rats compared to those injected with vehicle. EA at 10 Hz significantly (P<0.05) decreased response frequency at 4-15 g compared to sham EA; EA at 100 Hz only decreased response frequency at 15 g stimulation. Compared to sham EA plus vehicle, EA at 10 Hz plus either a μ, δ, or κ opioid receptor antagonist did not significantly decrease mechanical response frequency, indicating that all three antagonists blocked EA inhibition of allodynia and hyperalgesia. Since we previously demonstrated that μ and δ but not κ opioid receptors affect EA anti-hyperalgesia in an inflammatory pain model, these data show that EA inhibits pain through different opioid receptors under varying conditions. Our data indicate that EA at 10 Hz inhibits mechanical allodynia/hyperalgesia more potently than does EA at 100 Hz. Thus, EA significantly inhibits paclitaxel-induced allodynia/hyperalgesia through spinal opioid receptors, and EA may be a useful complementary treatment for neuropathic pain patients. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Motor learning in a complex balance task and associated neuroplasticity: a comparison between endurance athletes and nonathletes.

PubMed

Seidel, Oliver; Carius, Daniel; Kenville, Rouven; Ragert, Patrick

2017-09-01

Studies suggested that motor expertise is associated with functional and structural brain alterations, which positively affect sensorimotor performance and learning capabilities. The purpose of the present study was to unravel differences in motor skill learning and associated functional neuroplasticity between endurance athletes (EA) and nonathletes (NA). For this purpose, participants had to perform a multimodal balance task (MBT) training on 2 sessions, which were separated by 1 wk. Before and after MBT training, a static balance task (SBT) had to be performed. MBT-induced functional neuroplasticity and neuromuscular alterations were assessed by means of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and electromyography (EMG) during SBT performance. We hypothesized that EA would showed superior initial SBT performance and stronger MBT-induced improvements in SBT learning rates compared with NA. On a cortical level, we hypothesized that MBT training would lead to differential learning-dependent functional changes in motor-related brain regions [such as primary motor cortex (M1)] during SBT performance. In fact, EA showed superior initial SBT performance, whereas learning rates did not differ between groups. On a cortical level, fNIRS recordings (time × group interaction) revealed a stronger MBT-induced decrease in left M1 and inferior parietal lobe (IPL) for deoxygenated hemoglobin in EA. Even more interesting, learning rates were correlated with fNIRS changes in right M1/IPL. On the basis of these findings, we provide novel evidence for superior MBT training-induced functional neuroplasticity in highly trained athletes. Future studies should investigate these effects in different sports disciplines to strengthen previous work on experience-dependent neuroplasticity. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Motor expertise is associated with functional/structural brain plasticity. How such neuroplastic reorganization translates into altered motor learning processes remains elusive. We investigated endurance athletes (EA) and nonathletes (NA) in a multimodal balance task (MBT). EA showed superior static balance performance (SBT), whereas MBT-induced SBT improvements did not differ between groups. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy recordings revealed a differential MBT training-induced decrease of deoxygenated hemoglobin in left primary motor cortex and inferior parietal lobe between groups. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

A randomized, controlled trial of oral sulfate solution plus polyethylene glycol as a bowel preparation for colonoscopy.

PubMed

Rex, Douglas K; McGowan, John; Cleveland, Mark vB; Di Palma, Jack A

2014-09-01

No bowel preparation for colonoscopy is optimal with regard to efficacy, safety, and tolerability. New options for bowel preparation are needed. To compare a new hybrid preparation consisting of a reduced dose of oral sulfate solution (OSS) plus 2 L of sulfate-free electrolyte lavage solution (SF-ELS) with 2 low-volume preparations based on polyethylene glycol electrolyte lavage solution (PEG-ELS). Two randomized, controlled trials. Twenty-four U.S. centers. A total of 737 outpatients undergoing colonoscopy. In study 1, OSS plus SF-ELS was given as a split dose, and in study 2, OSS plus SF-ELS was given in its entirety the evening before colonoscopy. In study 1, the active control was 2 L of PEG-ELS plus ascorbic acid (PEG-EA) given as a split dose. In study 2, the control was 10 mg of bisacodyl plus 2 L of SF-ELS taken the evening before colonoscopy. Rates of successful (good or excellent) bowel preparation. In study 1, the rates of successful (excellent or good) preparation with OSS plus SF-ELS and PEG-EA were identical at 93.5% for split-dose preparation. OSS plus SF-ELS was noninferior to PEG-EA (P < .001). In study 2, OSS plus SF-ELS resulted in successful preparation in 89.8% of patients compared with 83.5% with bisacodyl plus SF-ELS in a same-day preparation regimen. OSS plus SF-ELS was noninferior to bisacodyl plus SF-ELS (P <.001). In study 1, vomiting was more frequent with OSS plus SF-ELS (13.5% vs 6.7%; P = .042), and bloating was rated worse with PEG-EA (P = .025). In study 2, overall discomfort was rated worse with OSS plus SF-ELS (mean score 2.1 vs 1.8; P = .032). There were no deaths in either study and no serious adverse events considered related to the preparation. Bowel cleansing was not scored by colon segment. Adenoma detection was not compared between the regimens. OSS plus SF-ELS is a new, safe, and effective bowel preparation for colonoscopy. Copyright © 2014 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

47 CFR 11.32 - EAS Encoder.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false EAS Encoder. 11.32 Section 11.32....32 EAS Encoder. (a) EAS Encoders must at a minimum be capable of encoding the EAS protocol described... must additionally provide the following minimum specifications: (1) Encoder programming. Access to...

Understanding the relationships between self-esteem, experiential avoidance, and paranoia: structural equation modelling and experience sampling studies.

PubMed

Udachina, Alisa; Thewissen, Viviane; Myin-Germeys, Inez; Fitzpatrick, Sam; O'kane, Aisling; Bentall, Richard P

2009-09-01

Hypothesized relationships between experiential avoidance (EA), self-esteem, and paranoia were tested using structural equation modeling in a sample of student participants (N = 427). EA in everyday life was also investigated using the Experience Sampling Method in a subsample of students scoring high (N = 17) and low (N = 15) on paranoia. Results showed that paranoid students had lower self-esteem and reported higher levels of EA than nonparanoid participants. The interactive influence of EA and stress predicted negative self-esteem: EA was particularly damaging at high levels of stress. Greater EA and higher social stress independently predicted lower positive self-esteem. Low positive self-esteem predicted engagement in EA. A direct association between EA and paranoia was also found. These results suggest that similar mechanisms may underlie EA and thought suppression. Although people may employ EA to regulate self-esteem, this strategy is maladaptive as it damages self-esteem, incurs cognitive costs, and fosters paranoid thinking.

Molecular evidence of hybridization in sympatric populations of the Enantia jethys complex (Lepidoptera: Pieridae).

PubMed

Jasso-Martínez, Jovana M; Machkour-M'Rabet, Salima; Vila, Roger; Rodríguez-Arnaiz, Rosario; Castañeda-Sortibrán, América Nitxin

2018-01-01

Hybridization events are frequently demonstrated in natural butterfly populations. One interesting butterfly complex species is the Enantia jethys complex that has been studied for over a century; many debates exist regarding the species composition of this complex. Currently, three species that live sympatrically in the Gulf slope of Mexico (Enantia jethys, E. mazai, and E. albania) are recognized in this complex (based on morphological and molecular studies). Where these species live in sympatry, some cases of interspecific mating have been observed, suggesting hybridization events. Considering this, we employed a multilocus approach (analyses of mitochondrial and nuclear sequences: COI, RpS5, and Wg; and nuclear dominant markers: inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSRs) to study hybridization in sympatric populations from Veracruz, Mexico. Genetic diversity parameters were determined for all molecular markers, and species identification was assessed by different methods such as analyses of molecular variance (AMOVA), clustering, principal coordinate analysis (PCoA), gene flow, and PhiPT parameters. ISSR molecular markers were used for a more profound study of hybridization process. Although species of the Enantia jethys complex have a low dispersal capacity, we observed high genetic diversity, probably reflecting a high density of individuals locally. ISSR markers provided evidence of a contemporary hybridization process, detecting a high number of hybrids (from 17% to 53%) with significant differences in genetic diversity. Furthermore, a directional pattern of hybridization was observed from E. albania to other species. Phylogenetic study through DNA sequencing confirmed the existence of three clades corresponding to the three species previously recognized by morphological and molecular studies. This study underlines the importance of assessing hybridization in evolutionary studies, by tracing the lineage separation process that leads to the origin of new species. Our research demonstrates that hybridization processes have a high occurrence in natural populations.

The effect of acupuncture needle combination on central pain processing-an fMRI study

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Empirical acupuncture treatment paradigm for acute pain utilizing Tendinomuscular Meridians (TMM) calls for the stimulation of Ting Points (TPs) and Gathering point(GP). This study aims to compare the supraspinal neuronal mechanisms associated with both TPs and GP needling (EA3), and TPs needling alone (EA2) with fMRI. Results A significant (P < 0.01) difference between pre-scan (heat Pain) HP, and post-EA HP VAS scores in both paradigms was noted (n = 11). The post-EA HP VAS score was significantly (P < 0.05) lower with EA3 comparing to EA2 Within-group random effect analysis indicated that EA3+HP>EA3 (condition EA3+HP subtracted by condition EA3) appeared to exert a significant degree of activity suppression in the affective supraspinal regions including the IPL, anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and the insular cortex (IN). This level of suppression was not observed in the EA2+HP>EA2 (condition EA2+HP subtracted by condition EA2) within-group random effect analysis Between-group random effect analysis indicated that EA3 induced a significantly (P < 0.01, cluster size threshold 150) higher degree of deactivation than EA2 in several pain related supraspinal regions including the right prefrontal cortex, rostral anterior cingulate (rACC), medial cingulate cortex, left inferior frontal lobe and posterior cerebellum. The 2-factor ANOVA in those regions indicated both rACC and posterior cerebellum had a significant (P < 0.01) needle effect, and the right prefrontal area showed a significant (P < 0.01) HP effect. However, a significant interaction between the two factors was only found in the right prefrontal lobe. Granger causality analysis showed EA3 induced a much higher degree of inference among HP related supraspinal somatosensory, affective and modulatory components than EA2. Deactivation pattern at the medullary-pontine area casted a direct inference on the deactivation pattern of secondary somatosensory cortices which also affected the deactivation of the IN. Conclusions While both EA2 and EA3 induced a significant degree of deactivation in the human brain regions related to pain processing, the addition of GP stimulation further exerts an inhibitory effect on the ascending spinoreticular pain pathway. Therefore, different needling position as mandated in different empirical acupuncture treatment paradigms may play a different role in modulating pain related neuronal functions. PMID:24667015

Hybridization could be a common phenomenon within the highly diverse lizard genus Liolaemus.

PubMed

Olave, Melisa; Avila, Luciano J; Sites, Jack W; Morando, Mariana

2018-03-26

Hybridization is likely to occur more often between closely related taxa that have had insufficient time to diverge to the point of reproductive incompatibility; hybridization between deeply divergent lineages is rare. In squamate reptiles, hybridization has been proposed as a possible explanation for the extensive paraphyly observed in mitochondrial gene trees in several species complexes of the South American lizard genus Liolaemus. One of the best-documented cases is within the L. boulengeri and L. rothi complexes, which diverged ~5.5 million years ago. Here, we describe a comprehensive study for approaching the hybridization hypothesis between these lizard species complexes. We explored the level of gene tree discordance using the novel 'extra lineage contribution' statistics (XLC, presented in this study) that quantifies the level of gene tree discordance contribution per individual within a species. We included molecular data (12 nuclear and two mitochondrial genes) from 127 individuals, and results of a coalescent model-based analysis show that the most likely explanation for the gene tree-species tree discordance is interspecific hybridization. Our best-supported hypothesis suggests current and past hybridization between L. rothi (rothi complex) and L. tehuelche (boulengeri complex), and independently between L. rothi and L. boulengeri and L. telsen (boulengeri complex). The hybrid descendants are characterized by intermediate phenotypes between the parental species, but are more similar to L. rothi in body size. We discuss the possible role of hybridization in Liolaemus evolution. © 2018 European Society For Evolutionary Biology. Journal of Evolutionary Biology © 2018 European Society For Evolutionary Biology.

7 CFR 3407.10 - Preparation of environmental assessments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... limited to 10-15 pages. NOTE: It is the scope and complexity of the environmental issues, rather than the... 7 Agriculture 15 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Preparation of environmental assessments. 3407.10... ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT § 3407.10 Preparation of environmental assessments. (a) Format and content. An EA may...

76 FR 5196 - Aransas National Wildlife Refuge Complex, Aransas, Calhoun, and Refugio Counties, TX; Final...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-01-28

... recreational development, the protection of natural resources, and the conservation of endangered or threatened.... We completed a thorough analysis of impacts on the human environment, which we included in the EA.../STRC/laguna/Index_Laguna.html . At the following libraries: Library Address Phone number Victoria...

Facilitating the enzymatic saccharification of pulped bamboo residues by degrading the remained xylan and lignin-carbohydrates complexes.

PubMed

Huang, Caoxing; He, Juan; Li, Xin; Min, Douyong; Yong, Qiang

2015-09-01

Kraft pulping was performed on bamboo residues and its impact on the chemical compositions and the enzymatic digestibility of the samples were investigated. To improve the digestibility of sample by degrading the xylan and lignin-carbohydrates complexes (LCCs), xylanase and α-L-arabinofuranosidase (AF) were supplemented with cellulase. The results showed more carbohydrates were remained in the samples pulped with low effective alkali (EA) charge, compared to conventional kraft pulping. When 120 IU/g xylanase and 15 IU/g AF were supplemented with 20 FPU/g cellulase, the xylan degradation yield of the sample pulped with 12% EA charge increased from 68.20% to 88.35%, resulting in an increased enzymatic saccharification efficiency from 58.98% to 83.23%. The amount of LCCs in this sample decreased from 8.63/100C9 to 2.99/100C9 after saccharification with these enzymes. The results indicated that degrading the remained xylan and LCCs in the pulp could improve its enzymatic digestibility. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Managing changes in the enterprise architecture modelling context

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khanh Dam, Hoa; Lê, Lam-Son; Ghose, Aditya

2016-07-01

Enterprise architecture (EA) models the whole enterprise in various aspects regarding both business processes and information technology resources. As the organisation grows, the architecture of its systems and processes must also evolve to meet the demands of the business environment. Evolving an EA model may involve making changes to various components across different levels of the EA. As a result, an important issue before making a change to an EA model is assessing the ripple effect of the change, i.e. change impact analysis. Another critical issue is change propagation: given a set of primary changes that have been made to the EA model, what additional secondary changes are needed to maintain consistency across multiple levels of the EA. There has been however limited work on supporting the maintenance and evolution of EA models. This article proposes an EA description language, namely ChangeAwareHierarchicalEA, integrated with an evolution framework to support both change impact analysis and change propagation within an EA model. The core part of our framework is a technique for computing the impact of a change and a new method for generating interactive repair plans from Alloy consistency rules that constrain the EA model.

Experiential avoidance in the vulnerability to depression among adolescent females.

PubMed

Mellick, William; Vanwoerden, Salome; Sharp, Carla

2017-01-15

Although various mechanisms in the maternal transmission of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) have been investigated, it is unknown whether experiential avoidance (EA) is a vulnerability factor in the development of depression or a consequence of the illness. The present study utilized a high-risk design to determine if EA indeed poses vulnerability to adolescent MDD. Secondly, we examined the means by which adolescent EA may come to pose vulnerability, namely that it explains the relation between maternal EA and adolescent depressive symptoms. One-hundred and forty-six biological mother/adolescent daughter dyads comprised three diagnostic groups: mothers with a history of MDD and their depressed daughters (MDD; n=21), mothers with a history of MDD and their never-depressed daughters (high-risk, HR; n=69), and healthy controls (HCs; n=56). Groups differed on daughter EA such that the MDD group reported greater EA than the HR group, which in turn reported greater EA than HCs. Daughter EA mediated the relation between maternal EA and daughter depressive symptoms after controlling for maternal depressive symptoms. Strengths aside, this study included a relatively small group of depressed mother-daughter dyads and relied on cross-sectional self-report data. EA appears to serve as a vulnerability factor for adolescent MDD, and the mechanistic role of daughter EA highlights the significance of intergenerational EA in the maternal transmission of depression. Therapeutic approaches may therefore consider reducing the transmission of EA from mothers to daughters. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Repetitive Electroacupuncture Attenuates Cold-Induced Hypertension through Enkephalin in the Rostral Ventral Lateral Medulla

PubMed Central

Li, Min; Tjen-A-Looi, Stephanie C.; Guo, Zhi-Ling; Longhurst, John C.

2016-01-01

Acupuncture lowers blood pressure (BP) in hypertension, but mechanisms underlying its action are unclear. To simulate clinical studies, we performed electroacupuncture (EA) in unanesthetized rats with cold-induced hypertension (CIH) induced by six weeks of cold exposure (6 °C). EA (0.1 – 0.4 mA, 2 Hz) was applied at ST36-37 acupoints overlying the deep peroneal nerve for 30 min twice weekly for five weeks while sham-EA was conducted with the same procedures as EA except for no electrical stimulation. Elevated BP was reduced after six sessions of EA treatment and remained low 72 hrs after EA in 18 CIH rats, but not in sham-EA (n = 12) and untreated (n = 6) CIH ones. The mRNA level of preproenkephalin in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (rVLM) 72 hr after EA was increased (n = 9), compared to the sham-EA (n = 6), untreated CIH rats (n = 6) and normotensive control animals (n = 6). Microinjection of ICI 174,864, a δ-opioid receptor antagonist, into the rVLM of EA-treated CIH rats partially reversed EA’s effect on elevated BP (n = 4). Stimulation of rVLM of CIH rats treated with sham-EA using a δ-opioid agonist, DADLE, decreased BP (n = 6). These data suggest that increased enkephalin in the rVLM induced by repetitive EA contributes to BP lowering action of EA. PMID:27775047

Lower extremity energy absorption and biomechanics during landing, part II: frontal-plane energy analyses and interplanar relationships.

PubMed

Norcross, Marc F; Lewek, Michael D; Padua, Darin A; Shultz, Sandra J; Weinhold, Paul S; Blackburn, J Troy

2013-01-01

Greater sagittal-plane energy absorption (EA) during the initial impact phase (INI) of landing is consistent with sagittal-plane biomechanics that likely increase anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) loading, but it does not appear to influence frontal-plane biomechanics. We do not know whether frontal-plane INI EA is related to high-risk frontal-plane biomechanics. To compare biomechanics among INI EA groups, determine if women are represented more in the high group, and evaluate interplanar INI EA relationships. Descriptive laboratory study. Research laboratory. Participants included 82 (41 men, 41 women; age = 21.0 ± 2.4 years, height = 1.74 ± 0.10 m, mass = 70.3 ± 16.1 kg) healthy, physically active volunteers. We assessed landing biomechanics with an electromagnetic motion-capture system and force plate. We calculated frontal- and sagittal-plane total, hip, knee, and ankle INI EA. Total frontal-plane INI EA was used to create high, moderate, and low tertiles. Frontal-plane knee and hip kinematics, peak vertical and posterior ground reaction forces, and peak internal knee-varus moment (pKVM) were identified and compared across groups using 1-way analyses of variance. We used a χ (2) analysis to evaluate male and female allocation to INI EA groups. We used simple, bivariate Pearson product moment correlations to assess interplanar INI EA relationships. The high-INI EA group exhibited greater knee valgus at ground contact, hip adduction at pKVM, and peak hip adduction than the low-INI EA group (P < .05) and greater peak knee valgus, pKVM, and knee valgus at pKVM than the moderate- (P < .05) and low- (P < .05) INI EA groups. Women were more likely than men to be in the high-INI EA group (χ(2) = 4.909, P = .03). Sagittal-plane knee and frontal-plane hip INI EA (r = 0.301, P = .006) and sagittal-plane and frontal-plane ankle INI EA were associated (r = 0.224, P = .04). No other interplanar INI EA relationships were found (P > .05). Greater frontal-plane INI EA was associated with less favorable frontal-plane biomechanics that likely result in greater ACL loading. Women were more likely than men to use greater frontal-plane INI EA. The magnitudes of sagittal- and frontal-plane INI EA were largely independent.

Electroacupuncture is not effective in chronic painful neuropathies.

PubMed

Penza, Paola; Bricchi, Monica; Scola, Amalia; Campanella, Angela; Lauria, Giuseppe

2011-12-01

  To investigate the analgesic efficacy of electroacupuncture (EA) in patients with chronic painful neuropathy.   Double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. Inclusion criteria were diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy, neuropathic pain (visual analog scale > 4) for at least 6 months, and stable analgesic medications for at least 3 months.   Sixteen patients were randomized into two arms to be treated with EA or pseudo-EA (placebo).   The protocol included 6 weeks of treatment, 12 weeks free of treatment, and then further 6 weeks of treatment. EA or pseudo-EA was performed weekly during each treatment period.   The primary outcome was the number of patients treated with EA achieving at least 50% of pain relief at the end of each treatment compared with pain intensity at baseline. Secondary outcomes were modification in patient's global impression of change, depression and anxiety, and quality of life.   Eleven patients were randomized to EA and five patients to pseudo-EA as the first treatment. Only one patient per group (EA and pseudo-EA) reported 50% of pain relief at the end of each treatment compared with pain intensity at baseline. Pain intensity did not differ between EA (5.7 ± 2.3 at baseline and 4.97 ± 3.23 after treatment) and pseudo-EA (4.9 ± 1.9 at baseline and 4.18 ± 2.69 after treatment). There was no difference between patients who received EA as the first treatment and patients initially treated with placebo. There was no change in the secondary outcomes.   Our results do not support the use of EA in this population of painful neuropathy patients. Further studies in larger groups of patients are warranted to confirm our observation. Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Enhanced anticancer activity and oral bioavailability of ellagic acid through encapsulation in biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles.

PubMed

Mady, Fatma M; Shaker, Mohamed A

2017-01-01

Despite the fact that various studies have investigated the clinical relevance of ellagic acid (EA) as a naturally existing bioactive substance in cancer therapy, little has been reported regarding the efficient strategy for improving its oral bioavailability. In this study, we report the formulation of EA-loaded nanoparticles (EA-NPs) to find a way to enhance its bioactivity as well as bioavailability after oral administration. Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) was selected as the biodegradable polymer for the formulation of EA-NPs through the emulsion-diffusion-evaporation technique. The obtained NPs have been characterized by measuring particle size, zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared, differential scanning calorimetry, and X-ray diffraction. The entrapment efficiency and the release profile of EA was also determined. In vitro cellular uptake and cytotoxicity of the obtained NPs were evaluated using Caco-2 and HCT-116 cell lines, respectively. Moreover, in vivo study has been performed to measure the oral bioavailability of EA-NPs compared to free EA, using New Zealand white rabbits. NPs with distinct shape were obtained with high entrapment and loading efficiencies. Diffusion-driven release profile of EA from the prepared NPs was determined. EA-NP-treated HCT-116 cells showed relatively lower cell viability compared to free EA-treated cells. Fluorometric imaging revealed the cellular uptake and efficient localization of EA-NPs in the nuclear region of Caco-2 cells. In vivo testing revealed that the oral administration of EA-NPs produced a 3.6 times increase in the area under the curve compared to that of EA. From these results, it can be concluded that incorporation of EA into PCL as NPs enhances its oral bioavailability and activity.

Enhanced anticancer activity and oral bioavailability of ellagic acid through encapsulation in biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Mady, Fatma M; Shaker, Mohamed A

2017-01-01

Despite the fact that various studies have investigated the clinical relevance of ellagic acid (EA) as a naturally existing bioactive substance in cancer therapy, little has been reported regarding the efficient strategy for improving its oral bioavailability. In this study, we report the formulation of EA-loaded nanoparticles (EA-NPs) to find a way to enhance its bioactivity as well as bioavailability after oral administration. Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) was selected as the biodegradable polymer for the formulation of EA-NPs through the emulsion–diffusion–evaporation technique. The obtained NPs have been characterized by measuring particle size, zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared, differential scanning calorimetry, and X-ray diffraction. The entrapment efficiency and the release profile of EA was also determined. In vitro cellular uptake and cytotoxicity of the obtained NPs were evaluated using Caco-2 and HCT-116 cell lines, respectively. Moreover, in vivo study has been performed to measure the oral bioavailability of EA-NPs compared to free EA, using New Zealand white rabbits. NPs with distinct shape were obtained with high entrapment and loading efficiencies. Diffusion-driven release profile of EA from the prepared NPs was determined. EA-NP-treated HCT-116 cells showed relatively lower cell viability compared to free EA-treated cells. Fluorometric imaging revealed the cellular uptake and efficient localization of EA-NPs in the nuclear region of Caco-2 cells. In vivo testing revealed that the oral administration of EA-NPs produced a 3.6 times increase in the area under the curve compared to that of EA. From these results, it can be concluded that incorporation of EA into PCL as NPs enhances its oral bioavailability and activity. PMID:29066891

Effects of Different Electroacupuncture Scheduling Regimens on Murine Bone Tumor-Induced Hyperalgesia: Sex Differences and Role of Inflammation

PubMed Central

Smeester, Branden A.; Al-Gizawiy, Mona; Beitz, Alvin J.

2012-01-01

Previous studies have shown that electroacupuncture (EA) is able to reduce hyperalgesia in rodent models of persistent pain, but very little is known about the analgesic effects and potential sex differences of different EA treatment regimens. In the present study, we examined the effects of five different EA treatments on tumor-induced hyperalgesia in male and female mice. EA applied to the ST-36 acupoint either twice weekly (EA-2X/3) beginning on postimplantation day (PID) 3 or prophylactically three times prior to implantation produced the most robust and longest lasting antinociceptive effects. EA treatment given once per week beginning at PID 7 only produced an antinociceptive effect in female animals. The analgesic effect of EA-2X/3 began earlier in males, but lasted longer in females indicating sex differences in EA. We further demonstrate that EA-2X/3 elicits a marked decrease in tumor-associated inflammation as evidenced by a significant reduction in tumor-associated neutrophils at PID 7. Moreover, EA-2X/3 produced a significant reduction in tumor-associated PGE2 as measured in microperfusate samples. Collectively, these data provide evidence that EA-2X/3 treatment reduces tumor-induced hyperalgesia, which is associated with a decrease in tumor-associated inflammation and PGE2 concentration at the tumor site suggesting possible mechanisms by which EA reduces tumor nociception. PMID:23320035

Echinocystic acid inhibits RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis by regulating NF-κB and ERK signaling pathways

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

Yang, Jian-hui, E-mail: jianhui_yangxa@163.com; Li, Bing; Wu, Qiong

Receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) is a key factor in the differentiation and activation of osteoclasts. Echinocystic acid (EA), a pentacyclic triterpene isolated from the fruits of Gleditsia sinensis Lam, was reported to prevent reduction of bone mass and strength and improve the cancellous bone structure and biochemical properties in ovariectomy rats. However, the molecular mechanism of EA on the osteoclast formation has not been reported. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects and mechanism of EA on RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis. Our results showed that EA inhibited the formation of osteoclast, as well as the expressionmore » of osteoclastogenesis-related marker proteins in bone marrow macrophages (BMMs). At molecular levels, EA inhibited RANKL-induced NF-κB activation and ERK phosphorylation in BMMs. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that EA can suppress osteoclastogenesis in vitro. Moreover, we clarified that these inhibitory effects of EA occur through suppression of NF-κB and ERK activation. Therefore, EA may be a potential agent in the treatment of osteoclast-related diseases such as osteoporosis. - Highlights: • EA inhibited the formation of osteoclast in BMMs. • EA inhibits the expression of osteoclastogenesis-related marker proteins in BMMs. • EA inhibits RANKL-induced NF-κB activation in BMMs. • EA inhibits RANKL-induced ERK phosphorylation in BMMs.« less

47 CFR 11.51 - EAS code and Attention Signal Transmission requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Message (EOM) codes using the EAS Protocol. The Attention Signal must precede any emergency audio message... audio messages. No Attention Signal is required for EAS messages that do not contain audio programming... EAS messages in the main audio channel. All DAB stations shall also transmit EAS messages on all audio...

47 CFR 11.51 - EAS code and Attention Signal Transmission requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Message (EOM) codes using the EAS Protocol. The Attention Signal must precede any emergency audio message... audio messages. No Attention Signal is required for EAS messages that do not contain audio programming... EAS messages in the main audio channel. All DAB stations shall also transmit EAS messages on all audio...

47 CFR 11.51 - EAS code and Attention Signal Transmission requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Message (EOM) codes using the EAS Protocol. The Attention Signal must precede any emergency audio message... audio messages. No Attention Signal is required for EAS messages that do not contain audio programming... EAS messages in the main audio channel. All DAB stations shall also transmit EAS messages on all audio...

47 CFR 11.34 - Acceptability of the equipment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

...) Equipment Requirements § 11.34 Acceptability of the equipment. (a) An EAS Encoder used for generating the...) The functions of the EAS decoder, Attention Signal generator and receiver, and the EAS encoder... information on how to install, operate and program an EAS Encoder, EAS Decoder, or combined unit and a list of...

47 CFR 11.34 - Acceptability of the equipment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...) Equipment Requirements § 11.34 Acceptability of the equipment. (a) An EAS Encoder used for generating the...) The functions of the EAS decoder, Attention Signal generator and receiver, and the EAS encoder... information on how to install, operate and program an EAS Encoder, EAS Decoder, or combined unit and a list of...

47 CFR 11.52 - EAS code and Attention Signal Monitoring requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false EAS code and Attention Signal Monitoring... SYSTEM (EAS) Emergency Operations § 11.52 EAS code and Attention Signal Monitoring requirements. (a) EAS Participants must be capable of receiving the Attention Signal required by § 11.32(a)(9) and emergency messages...

77 FR 1676 - EasTrans, LLC; Notice Granting Extension of Time

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-11

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket No. PR10-30-002] EasTrans, LLC; Notice Granting Extension of Time On December 16, 2011, EasTrans, LLC (EasTrans) filed a request to... 20, 2010). Upon consideration, notice is hereby given that an extension of time for EasTrans to file...

Components of the Bond Energy in Polar Diatomic Molecules, Radicals, and Ions Formed by Group-1 and Group-2 Metal Atoms.

PubMed

Yu, Haoyu; Truhlar, Donald G

2015-07-14

Although many transition metal complexes are known to have high multireference character, the multireference character of main-group closed-shell singlet diatomic molecules like BeF, CaO, and MgO has been less studied. However, many group-1 and group-2 diatomic molecules do have multireference character, and they provide informative systems for studying multireference character because they are simpler than transition metal compounds. The goal of the present work is to understand these multireference systems better so that, ultimately, we can apply what we learn to more complicated multireference systems and to the design of new exchange-correlation functionals for treating multireference systems more adequately. Fourteen main-group diatomic molecules and one triatomic molecule (including radicals, cations, and anions, as well as neutral closed-shell species) have been studied for this article. Eight of these molecules contain a group-1 element, and six contain a group-2 element. Seven of these molecules are multireference systems, and eight of them are single-reference systems. Fifty-three exchange-correlation functionals of 11 types [local spin-density approximation (LSDA), generalized gradient approximation (GGA), nonseparable gradient approximation (NGA), global-hybrid GGA, meta-GGA, meta-NGA, global-hybrid meta GGA, range-separated hybrid GGA, range-separated hybrid meta-GGA, range-separated hybrid meta-NGA, and DFT augmented with molecular mechanics damped dispersion (DFT-D)] and the Hartree-Fock method have been applied to calculate the bond distance, bond dissociation energy (BDE), and dipole moment of these molecules. All of the calculations are converged to a stable solution by allowing the symmetry of the Slater determinant to be broken. A reliable functional should not only predict an accurate BDE but also predict accurate components of the BDE, so each bond dissociation energy has been decomposed into ionization potential (IP) of the electropositive element, electron affinity of the electronegative bonding partner (EA), atomic excitation energy (EE) to prepare the valence states of the interacting partners, and interaction energy (IE) of the valence-prepared states. Adding Hartree-Fock exchange helps to obtain better results for atomic excitation energy, and this leads to improvements in getting the right answer for the right reason. The following functionals are singled out for reasonably good performance on all three of bond distance, BDE, and dipole moment: B97-1, B97-3, MPW1B95, M05, M06, M06-2X, M08-SO, N12-SX, O3LYP, TPSS, τ-HCTHhyb, and GAM; all but two (TPSS and GAM) of these functionals are hybrid functionals.

Derivation of hydrous pyrolysis kinetic parameters from open-system pyrolysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tseng, Yu-Hsin; Huang, Wuu-Liang

2010-05-01

Kinetic information is essential to predict the temperature, timing or depth of hydrocarbon generation within a hydrocarbon system. The most common experiments for deriving kinetic parameters are mainly by open-system pyrolysis. However, it has been shown that the conditions of open-system pyrolysis are deviant from nature by its low near-ambient pressure and high temperatures. Also, the extrapolation of heating rates in open-system pyrolysis to geological conditions may be questionable. Recent study of Lewan and Ruble shows hydrous-pyrolysis conditions can simulate the natural conditions better and its applications are supported by two case studies with natural thermal-burial histories. Nevertheless, performing hydrous pyrolysis experiment is really tedious and requires large amount of sample, while open-system pyrolysis is rather convenient and efficient. Therefore, the present study aims at the derivation of convincing distributed hydrous pyrolysis Ea with only routine open-system Rock-Eval data. Our results unveil that there is a good correlation between open-system Rock-Eval parameter Tmax and the activation energy (Ea) derived from hydrous pyrolysis. The hydrous pyrolysis single Ea can be predicted from Tmax based on the correlation, while the frequency factor (A0) is estimated based on the linear relationship between single Ea and log A0. Because the Ea distribution is more rational than single Ea, we modify the predicted single hydrous pyrolysis Ea into distributed Ea by shifting the pattern of Ea distribution from open-system pyrolysis until the weight mean Ea distribution equals to the single hydrous pyrolysis Ea. Moreover, it has been shown that the shape of the Ea distribution is very much alike the shape of Tmax curve. Thus, in case of the absence of open-system Ea distribution, we may use the shape of Tmax curve to get the distributed hydrous pyrolysis Ea. The study offers a new approach as a simple method for obtaining distributed hydrous pyrolysis Ea with only routine open-system Rock-Eval data, which will allow for better estimating hydrocarbon generation.

Biodegradable in situ gelling system for subcutaneous administration of ellagic acid and ellagic acid loaded nanoparticles: evaluation of their antioxidant potential against cyclosporine induced nephrotoxicity in rats.

PubMed

Sharma, G; Italia, J L; Sonaje, K; Tikoo, K; Ravi Kumar, M N V

2007-03-12

Ellagic acid (EA) is a potent antioxidant marketed as a nutritional supplement. Its pharmacological activity has been reported in wide variety of disease models; however its use has been limited owing to its poor biopharmaceutical properties, thereby poor bioavailability. The objective of the current study was to develop chitosan-glycerol phosphate (C-GP) in situ gelling system for sustained delivery of ellagic acid (EA) via subcutaneous route. EA was incorporated in the system employing propylene glycol (PG) and triethanolamine (TEA) as co-solvents; on the other hand EA loaded PLGA nanoparticles (np) were dispersed in the gelling system using water. These in situ gelling systems were thoroughly characterized for mechanical, rheological and swelling properties. These systems are liquid at room temperature and gels at 37 degrees C. The EA C-GP system showed an initial burst release in vitro with about 85% drug released in 12 h followed by a steady release till 160 h, on the other hand EA nanoparticles entrapped in the C-GP system displayed sustained release till 360 h. The histopathological analysis indicates the absence of inflammation on administration, suggesting that these formulations are safe during the studied period. Furthermore, the antioxidant potential of EA C-GP and EA np C-GP gels has been evaluated against cyclosporine induced nephrotoxicity in rats. The data indicates that formulations were effective against cyclosporine induced nephrotoxicity, where the EA C-GP gels showed activity at 10 times lower dose and the EA np C-GP gels at 150 times lower dose when compared to orally given EA. Formulating nanoparticles of EA and incorporating them in C-GP system results in 15 times lowering of dose in comparison EA C-GP gels which is quite significant. Together, these results indicate that the bioavailability of ellagic acid can be improved by subcutaneous formulations administered as simple EA or EA nps.

Physical Properties and Evolutionary States of EA-type Eclipsing Binaries Observed by LAMOST

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qian, S.-B.; Zhang, J.; He, J.-J.; Zhu, L.-Y.; Zhao, E.-G.; Shi, X.-D.; Zhou, X.; Han, Z.-T.

2018-03-01

About 3196 EA-type binaries (EAs) were observed by LAMOST by 2017 June 16 and their spectral types were derived. Meanwhile, the stellar atmospheric parameters of 2020 EAs were determined. In this paper, those EAs are cataloged and their physical properties and evolutionary states are investigated. The period distribution of EAs suggests that the period limit of tidal locking for the close binaries is about 6 days. It is found that the metallicity of EAs is higher than that of EW-type binaries (EWs), indicating that EAs are generally younger than EWs and they are the progenitors of EWs. The metallicities of long-period EWs (0.4< P< 1 days) are the same as those of EAs with the same periods, while their values of Log (g) are usually smaller than those of EAs. These support the evolutionary process that EAs evolve into long-period EWs through the combination of angular momentum loss (AML) via magnetic braking and case A mass transfer. For short-period EWs, their metallicities are lower than those of EAs, while their gravitational accelerations are higher. These reveal that they may be formed from cool short-period EAs through AML via magnetic braking with little mass transfer. For some EWs with high metallicities, they may be contaminated by material from the evolution of unseen neutron stars and black holes or they have third bodies that may help them to form rapidly through a short timescale of pre-contact evolution. The present investigation suggests that the modern EW populations may have formed through a combination of these mechanisms.

A Business Case Analysis on the Feasibility of Recapturing Inpatient Obstetrical Services for Naval Hospital Beaufort

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-06-14

F0220 Chair, Conference 1 EA $765 $765 F0250 Chair, Arm, Lounge Type 2 EA $460 $920 F0295 Chair, Stacking, 34 X 21 X 24 1 EA $87 $87 F0465 Cabinet...Patient Transport, Folding 1 EA $1,561 $1,561 STAFF LOUNGE 1 A5075 Dispenser, Soap, Disposable 1 EA $18 $18 A6046 Artwork, Decorative, With Frame 1 EA...Percentage 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% Staff Expense for E &T

The HGF Receptor c-Met Is Overexpressed in Esophageal Adenocarcinoma1

PubMed Central

Herrera, Luis J; El-Hefnawy, Talal; Queiroz de Oliveira, Pierre E; Raja, Siva; Finkelstein, Sydney; Gooding, William; Luketich, James D; Godfrey, Tony E; Hughes, Steven J

2005-01-01

Abstract The hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor, Met, has established oncogenic properties; however, its expression and function in esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA) remain poorly understood. We aimed to determine the expression and potential alterations in Met expression in EA. Met expression was investigated in surgical specimens of EA, Barrett's esophagus (BE), and normal esophagus (NE) using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Met expression, phosphorylation, and the effect of COX-2 inhibition on expression were examined in EA cell lines. IHC demonstrated intense Met immunoreactivity in all (100%) EA and dysplastic BE specimens. In contrast, minimal immunostaining was observed in BE without dysplasia or NE specimens. Met mRNA and protein levels were increased in three EA cell lines, and Met protein was phosphorylated in the absence of serum. Sequence analysis found the kinase domain of c-met to be wild type in all three EA cell lines. HGF mRNA expression was identified in two EA cell lines. In COX-2-overexpressing cells, COX-2 inhibition decreased Met expression. Met is consistently overexpressed in EA surgical specimens and in three EA cell lines. Met dysregulation occurs early in Barrett's dysplasia to adenocarcinoma sequence. Future study of Met inhibition as a potential biologic therapy for EA is warranted. PMID:15720819

The influences of sex and posture on joint energetics during drop landings.

PubMed

Norcross, M F; Shultz, S J; Weinhold, P S; Lewek, M D; Padua, D A; Blackburn, J T

2015-04-01

Previous observations suggest that females utilize a more erect initial landing posture than males with sex differences in landing posture possibly related to sex-specific energy absorption (EA) strategies. However, sex-specific EA strategies have only been observed when accompanied by sex differences in initial landing posture. This study (a) investigated the potential existence of sex-specific EA strategies; and (b) determined the influences of sex and initial landing posture on the biomechanical determinants of EA. The landing biomechanics of 80 subjects were recorded during drop landings in Preferred, Flexed, and Erect conditions. No sex differences in joint EA were identified after controlling for initial landing posture. Males and females exhibited greater ankle EA during Erect vs Flexed landings with this increase driven by 12% greater ankle velocity, but no change in ankle extensor moment. No differences in hip and knee EA were observed between conditions. However, to achieve similar knee EA, subjects used 7% greater mean knee extensor moment but 9% less knee angular velocity during Flexed landings. The results suggest that sex-specific EA strategies do not exist, and that the magnitude of knee joint EA can be maintained by modulating the relative contributions of joint moment and angular velocity to EA. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Chemicals having estrogenic activity can be released from some bisphenol A-free, hard and clear, thermoplastic resins.

PubMed

Bittner, George D; Denison, Michael S; Yang, Chun Z; Stoner, Matthew A; He, Guochun

2014-12-04

Chemicals that have estrogenic activity (EA) can potentially cause adverse health effects in mammals including humans, sometimes at low doses in fetal through juvenile stages with effects detected in adults. Polycarbonate (PC) thermoplastic resins made from bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical that has EA, are now often avoided in products used by babies. Other BPA-free thermoplastic resins, some hypothesized or advertised to be EA-free, are replacing PC resins used to make reusable hard and clear thermoplastic products such as baby bottles. We used two very sensitive and accurate in vitro assays (MCF-7 and BG1Luc human cell lines) to quantify the EA of chemicals leached into ethanol or water/saline extracts of fourteen unstressed or stressed (autoclaving, microwaving, UV radiation) thermoplastic resins. Estrogen receptor (ER)-dependent agonist responses were confirmed by their inhibition with the ER antagonist ICI 182,780. Our data showed that some (4/14) unstressed and stressed BPA-free thermoplastic resins leached chemicals having significant levels of EA, including one polystyrene (PS), and three Tritan™ resins, the latter reportedly EA-free. Exposure to UV radiation in natural sunlight resulted in an increased release of EA from Tritan™ resins. Triphenyl-phosphate (TPP), an additive used to manufacture some thermoplastic resins such as Tritan™, exhibited EA in both MCF-7 and BG1Luc assays. Ten unstressed or stressed glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETG), cyclic olefin polymer (COP) or copolymer (COC) thermoplastic resins did not release chemicals with detectable EA under any test condition. This hazard survey study assessed the release of chemicals exhibiting EA as detected by two sensitive, widely used and accepted, human cell line in vitro assays. Four PC replacement resins (Tritan™ and PS) released chemicals having EA. However, ten other PC-replacement resins did not leach chemicals having EA (EA-free-resins). These results indicate that PC-replacement plastic products could be made from EA-free resins (if appropriate EA-free additives are chosen) that maintain advantages of re-usable plastic items (price, weight, shatter resistance) without releasing chemicals having EA that potentially produce adverse health effects on current or future generations.

47 CFR 90.761 - EA and Regional licenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... Policies Governing the Licensing and Use of Phase II Ea, Regional and Nationwide Systems § 90.761 EA and Regional licenses. (a) EA licenses for spectrum blocks listed in Table 2 of § 90.721(b) are available in... 47 Telecommunication 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false EA and Regional licenses. 90.761 Section 90.761...

47 CFR 90.761 - EA and Regional licenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Policies Governing the Licensing and Use of Phase II Ea, Regional and Nationwide Systems § 90.761 EA and Regional licenses. (a) EA licenses for spectrum blocks listed in Table 2 of § 90.721(b) are available in... 47 Telecommunication 5 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false EA and Regional licenses. 90.761 Section 90.761...

47 CFR 90.359 - Field strength limits for EA-licensed LMS systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 5 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Field strength limits for EA-licensed LMS... § 90.359 Field strength limits for EA-licensed LMS systems. EA-licensed multilateration systems shall limit the field strength of signals transmitted from their base stations to 47 dBuV/m at their EA...

7 CFR 1794.23 - Proposals normally requiring an EA.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 12 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Proposals normally requiring an EA. 1794.23 Section... § 1794.23 Proposals normally requiring an EA. RUS will normally prepare an EA for all proposed actions... require an EA and shall be subject to the requirements of §§ 1794.40 through 1794.44. (a) General...

7 CFR 1794.23 - Proposals normally requiring an EA.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 12 2014-01-01 2013-01-01 true Proposals normally requiring an EA. 1794.23 Section... § 1794.23 Proposals normally requiring an EA. RUS will normally prepare an EA for all proposed actions... require an EA and shall be subject to the requirements of §§ 1794.40 through 1794.44. (a) General...

7 CFR 1794.23 - Proposals normally requiring an EA.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 12 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Proposals normally requiring an EA. 1794.23 Section... § 1794.23 Proposals normally requiring an EA. RUS will normally prepare an EA for all proposed actions... require an EA and shall be subject to the requirements of §§ 1794.40 through 1794.44. (a) General...

Phenome-Wide Association Study (PheWAS) for Detection of Pleiotropy within the Population Architecture using Genomics and Epidemiology (PAGE) Network

PubMed Central

Pendergrass, Sarah A.; Brown-Gentry, Kristin; Dudek, Scott; Frase, Alex; Torstenson, Eric S.; Goodloe, Robert; Ambite, Jose Luis; Avery, Christy L.; Buyske, Steve; Bůžková, Petra; Deelman, Ewa; Fesinmeyer, Megan D.; Haiman, Christopher A.; Heiss, Gerardo; Hindorff, Lucia A.; Hsu, Chu-Nan; Jackson, Rebecca D.; Kooperberg, Charles; Le Marchand, Loic; Lin, Yi; Matise, Tara C.; Monroe, Kristine R.; Moreland, Larry; Park, Sungshim L.; Reiner, Alex; Wallace, Robert; Wilkens, Lynn R.; Crawford, Dana C.; Ritchie, Marylyn D.

2013-01-01

Using a phenome-wide association study (PheWAS) approach, we comprehensively tested genetic variants for association with phenotypes available for 70,061 study participants in the Population Architecture using Genomics and Epidemiology (PAGE) network. Our aim was to better characterize the genetic architecture of complex traits and identify novel pleiotropic relationships. This PheWAS drew on five population-based studies representing four major racial/ethnic groups (European Americans (EA), African Americans (AA), Hispanics/Mexican-Americans, and Asian/Pacific Islanders) in PAGE, each site with measurements for multiple traits, associated laboratory measures, and intermediate biomarkers. A total of 83 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) identified by genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were genotyped across two or more PAGE study sites. Comprehensive tests of association, stratified by race/ethnicity, were performed, encompassing 4,706 phenotypes mapped to 105 phenotype-classes, and association results were compared across study sites. A total of 111 PheWAS results had significant associations for two or more PAGE study sites with consistent direction of effect with a significance threshold of p<0.01 for the same racial/ethnic group, SNP, and phenotype-class. Among results identified for SNPs previously associated with phenotypes such as lipid traits, type 2 diabetes, and body mass index, 52 replicated previously published genotype–phenotype associations, 26 represented phenotypes closely related to previously known genotype–phenotype associations, and 33 represented potentially novel genotype–phenotype associations with pleiotropic effects. The majority of the potentially novel results were for single PheWAS phenotype-classes, for example, for CDKN2A/B rs1333049 (previously associated with type 2 diabetes in EA) a PheWAS association was identified for hemoglobin levels in AA. Of note, however, GALNT2 rs2144300 (previously associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in EA) had multiple potentially novel PheWAS associations, with hypertension related phenotypes in AA and with serum calcium levels and coronary artery disease phenotypes in EA. PheWAS identifies associations for hypothesis generation and exploration of the genetic architecture of complex traits. PMID:23382687

Known genetic susceptibility factors for chronic pancreatitis in patients of European ancestry are rare in patients of African ancestry.

PubMed

Phillips, Anna Evans; LaRusch, Jessica; Greer, Phil; Abberbock, Judah; Alkaade, Samer; Amann, Stephen T; Anderson, Michelle A; Baillie, John; Banks, Peter A; Brand, Randall E; Conwell, Darwin; Coté, Gregory A; Forsmark, Christopher E; Gardner, Timothy B; Gelrud, Andres; Guda, Nalini; Lewis, Michele; Money, Mary E; Muniraj, Thiruvengadam; Sandhu, Bimaljit S; Sherman, Stuart; Singh, Vikesh K; Slivka, Adam; Tang, Gong; Wilcox, C Mel; Whitcomb, David C; Yadav, Dhiraj

2018-05-19

Multiple pathogenic genetic variants are associated with pancreatitis in patients of European (EA) and Asian ancestries, but studies on patients of African ancestry (AA) are lacking. We evaluated the prevalence of known genetic variations in African-American subjects in the US. We studied prospectively enrolled controls (n = 238) and patients with chronic (CP) (n = 232) or recurrent acute pancreatitis (RAP) (n = 45) in the NAPS2 studies from 2000-2014 of self-identified AA. Demographic and phenotypic information was obtained from structured questionnaires. Ancestry and admixture were evaluated by principal component analysis (PCA). Genotyping was performed for pathogenic genetic variants in PRSS1, SPINK1, CFTR and CTRC. Prevalence of disease-associated variants in NAPS2 subjects of AA and EA was compared. When compared with CP subjects of EA (n = 862), prevalence of established pathogenic genetic variants was infrequent in AA patients with CP, overall (29 vs. 8.19%, OR 4.60, 95% CI 2.74-7.74, p < 0.001), and after stratification by alcohol etiology (p < 0.001). On PCA, AA cases were more heterogeneous but distinct from EA subjects; no difference was observed between AA subjects with and without CP-associated variants. Of 19 A A patients with CP who had pathogenic genetic variants, 2 had variants in PRSS1 (R122H, R122C), 4 in SPINK1 (all N34S heterozygotes), 12 in CFTR (2 CFTR sev , 9 CFTR BD , 1 compound heterozygote with CFTR sev and CFTR BD ), and 1 in CTRC (R254W). Pathogenic genetic variants reported in EA patients are significantly less common in AA patients. Further studies are needed to determine the complex risk factors for AA subjects with pancreatitis. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Biophysics and Structure of the Patch and the Gigaseal

PubMed Central

Suchyna, Thomas M.; Markin, Vladislav S.; Sachs, Frederick

2009-01-01

Abstract Interpreting channel behavior in patches requires an understanding of patch structure and dynamics, especially in studies of mechanosensitive channels. High resolution optical studies show that patch formation occurs via blebbing that disrupts normal membrane structure and redistributes in situ components including ion channels. There is a 1–2 μm region of the seal below the patch where proteins are excluded and this may consist of extracted lipids that form the gigaseal. Patch domes often have complex geometries with inhomogeneous stresses due to the membrane-glass adhesion energy (Ea), cytoskeletal forces, and possible lipid subdomains. The resting tension in the patch dome ranges from 1–4 mN/m, a significant fraction of the lytic tension of a bilayer (∼10 mN/m). Thus, all patch experiments are conducted under substantial, and uneven, resting tension that may alter the kinetics of many channels. Ea seems dominated by van der Waals attraction overlaid with a normally repulsive Coulombic force. High ionic strength pipette saline increased Ea and, surprisingly, increased cytoskeletal rigidity in cell-attached patches. Low pH pipette saline also increased Ea and reduced the seal selectivity for cations, presumably by neutralizing the membrane surface charge. The seal is a negatively charged, cation selective, space with a resistance of ∼7 gigohm/μm in 100 mM KCl, and the high resistivity of the space may result from the presence of high viscosity glycoproteins. Patches creep up the pipette over time with voltage independent and voltage dependent components. Voltage-independent creep is expected from the capillary attraction of Ea and the flow of fresh lipids from the cell. Voltage-dependent creep seems to arise from electroosmosis in the seal. Neutralization of negative charges on the seal membrane with low pH decreased the creep rate and reversed the direction of creep at positive pipette potentials. PMID:19651032

Devices That May Interfere with Pacemakers

MedlinePlus

... Devices with risk Anti-theft systems (also called electronic article surveillance or EAS): Interactions with EAS systems ... the pulse generator Anti-theft systems (also called electronic article surveillance or EAS): Interactions with EAS systems ...

Erosive arthritis in systemic lupus erythematosus: analysis of a distinct clinical and serological subset.

PubMed

Richter Cohen, M; Steiner, G; Smolen, J S; Isenberg, D A

1998-04-01

Erosive arthritis (EA) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can be debilitating and deforming with uncertain factors for risk, although antibodies to the A2 hnRNP core protein, known as anti-RA33, have been associated with EA. Two hundred patients under long-term follow-up for SLE were evaluated for EA and associated clinical and serological abnormalities. In addition, sera were tested in a masked fashion for anti-RA33 antibodies in a total of 60 patients: 10 with EA and 50 age-, sex- and ethnically matched controls. Ten of 200 (5%) patients with SLE, mainly non-white women, had EA. There were trends for increased renal involvement (P = 0.06), Sjögren's syndrome (P = 0.07) and Raynaud's phenomenon (P = 0.03) in patients with EA compared to those without EA. Rheumatoid factor (RF) was increased in patients with EA (P < 0.02), as were antibodies to double-stranded DNA (P < 0.05), Sm (P < 0.01) and La/SS-B (P < 0.001). Anti-RA33 antibodies were present in 70% with EA compared to 28% without EA (P < 0.05). RF correlated with anti-RA33 antibodies in patients with EA, but not with the presence of anti-RA33 alone. Thus, anti-RA33 antibodies may identify those patients with SLE who are at risk for EA, and an association with RF suggests a common immune response or pathological mechanism in autoimmune erosive joint disease.

Effect of Electroacupuncture on Rats with Chronic Constriction Injury-Induced Neuropathic Pain

PubMed Central

Tang, Nou-Ying; Lin, Yi-Wen; Li, Tsai-Chung; Liu, Hsu-Jan

2014-01-01

We adopt the chronic constriction injury (CCI) model to induce neuropathic pain to Spragrue-Dawley (SD) rats by ligating the right sciatic nerve of using four 4-0 chromic gut sutures and subsequently applying 2 and 15 Hz electroacupuncture (EA), respectively, to the right (ipsilateral) Zusanli (St-36) and Shangjuxu (St-37) acupoints. The results of this study are summarized as follows: (1) the differences in withdrawal latencies for the radiant heat test and total lift leg counts for the cold plate test (4°C) of the control (i.e., non-EA) and sham groups were greater than those of the 2 Hz EA (2EA) and 15 Hz EA (15EA) groups; (2) the von Frey test filament gram counts of the control and sham groups were less than those of the 2EA and 15EA groups on the 6th, 7th, 8th, 11th, 12th, and 13th day following ligation; and (3) the 2EA and 15EA groups exhibited reduced cerebral transient receptor potential vanilloid type 4 (TRPV4) expressions, although we did not observe a similar effect for cerebral TRPV1 or spinal TRPV4/TRPV1 expressions. These findings show that 2 and 15 Hz EA can reduce CCI-induced neuropathic pain, which indicates that various spinal segmental and gate effects have a crucial function in pain reduction. The relationship between EA and TRPV4/TRPV1 expression requires further study. PMID:24605047

Step-by-step growth of complex oxide microstructures

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

Datskos, Panos G.; Cullen, David A.; Sharma, Jaswinder K.

The synthesis of complex and hybrid oxide microstructures is of fundamental interest and practical applications. However, the design and synthesis of such structures is a challenging task. A solution-phase process to synthesize complex silica and silica-titania hybrid microstructures was developed by exploiting the emulsion-droplet-based step-by-step growth featuring shape control. Lastly, the strategy is robust and can be extended to the preparation of complex hybrid structures consisting of two or more materials, with each having its own shape.

Step-by-step growth of complex oxide microstructures

DOE PAGES

Datskos, Panos G.; Cullen, David A.; Sharma, Jaswinder K.

2015-06-10

The synthesis of complex and hybrid oxide microstructures is of fundamental interest and practical applications. However, the design and synthesis of such structures is a challenging task. A solution-phase process to synthesize complex silica and silica-titania hybrid microstructures was developed by exploiting the emulsion-droplet-based step-by-step growth featuring shape control. Lastly, the strategy is robust and can be extended to the preparation of complex hybrid structures consisting of two or more materials, with each having its own shape.

Lower Extremity Energy Absorption and Biomechanics During Landing, Part II: Frontal-Plane Energy Analyses and Interplanar Relationships

PubMed Central

Norcross, Marc F.; Lewek, Michael D.; Padua, Darin A.; Shultz, Sandra J.; Weinhold, Paul S.; Blackburn, J. Troy

2013-01-01

Context: Greater sagittal-plane energy absorption (EA) during the initial impact phase (INI) of landing is consistent with sagittal-plane biomechanics that likely increase anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) loading, but it does not appear to influence frontal-plane biomechanics. We do not know whether frontal-plane INI EA is related to high-risk frontal-plane biomechanics. Objective: To compare biomechanics among INI EA groups, determine if women are represented more in the high group, and evaluate interplanar INI EA relationships. Design: Descriptive laboratory study. Setting: Research laboratory. Patients or Other Participants: Participants included 82 (41 men, 41 women; age = 21.0 ± 2.4 years, height = 1.74 ± 0.10 m, mass = 70.3 ± 16.1 kg) healthy, physically active volunteers. Intervention(s): We assessed landing biomechanics with an electromagnetic motion-capture system and force plate. Main Outcome Measure(s): We calculated frontal- and sagittal-plane total, hip, knee, and ankle INI EA. Total frontal-plane INI EA was used to create high, moderate, and low tertiles. Frontal-plane knee and hip kinematics, peak vertical and posterior ground reaction forces, and peak internal knee-varus moment (pKVM) were identified and compared across groups using 1-way analyses of variance. We used a χ2 analysis to evaluate male and female allocation to INI EA groups. We used simple, bivariate Pearson product moment correlations to assess interplanar INI EA relationships. Results: The high–INI EA group exhibited greater knee valgus at ground contact, hip adduction at pKVM, and peak hip adduction than the low–INI EA group (P < .05) and greater peak knee valgus, pKVM, and knee valgus at pKVM than the moderate– (P < .05) and low– (P < .05) INI EA groups. Women were more likely than men to be in the high–INI EA group (χ2 = 4.909, P = .03). Sagittal-plane knee and frontal-plane hip INI EA (r = 0.301, P = .006) and sagittal-plane and frontal-plane ankle INI EA were associated (r = 0.224, P = .04). No other interplanar INI EA relationships were found (P > .05). Conclusions: Greater frontal-plane INI EA was associated with less favorable frontal-plane biomechanics that likely result in greater ACL loading. Women were more likely than men to use greater frontal-plane INI EA. The magnitudes of sagittal- and frontal-plane INI EA were largely independent. PMID:23944381

Assessing the putative roles of X-autosome and X-Y interactions in hybrid male sterility of the Drosophila bipectinata species complex.

PubMed

Mishra, Paras Kumar; Singh, Bashisth Narayan

2007-07-01

Interspecific F1 hybrid males of the Drosophila bipectinata species complex are sterile, while females are fertile, following Haldane's rule. A backcross scheme involving a single recessive visible marker on the X chromosome has been used to assess the putative roles of X-autosome and X-Y interactions in hybrid male sterility in the D. bipectinata species complex. The results suggest that X-Y interactions are playing the major role in hybrid male sterility in the crosses D. bipectinata x D. parabipectinata and D. bipectinata x D. pseudoananassae, while X-autosome interactions are largely involved in hybrid male sterility in the crosses D. malerkotliana x D. bipectinata and D. malerkotliana x D. parabipectinata. However, by using this single marker it is not possible to rule out the involvement of autosome-autosome interactions in hybrid male sterility. These findings also lend further support to the phylogenetic relationships among 4 species of the D. bipectinata complex.

Synthesis and strong photooxidation power of a supramolecular hybrid comprising a polyoxometalate and Ru(II) polypyridyl complex with zinc(II).

PubMed

Ohashi, Kenji; Takeda, Hiroyuki; Koike, Kazuhide; Ishitani, Osamu

2015-01-01

A novel method for constructing supramolecular hybrids composed of polyoxometalates and photofunctional metal complexes was developed. A Ru(II) complex with phosphonate groups (RuP) strongly interacted with Zn(II) to afford a 2 : 1 trinuclear metal complex ([(RuP)2Zn](3+)). In dimethylsulfoxide, [(RuP)2Zn](3+) strongly interacted with a Keggin-type heteropolyoxometalate (Si-WPOM) to form a 1 : 1 hybrid ([(RuP)2Zn]-POM). Irradiation of [(RuP)2Zn]-POM in the presence of diethanolamine caused rapid accumulation of the one-electron reduced hybrid with a quantum yield of 0.99.

The effect of electroacupuncture and tramadol on experimental tourniquet pain.

PubMed

Musial, Frauke; Choi, Kyung-Eun; Gabriel, Tim; Lüdtke, Rainer; Rampp, Thomas; Michalsen, Andreas; Dobos, Gustav

2012-03-01

The hypoalgesic effect of electroacupuncture (EA) was directly compared with the analgesic effect of pharmacological interventions using the submaximum effort tourniquet technique (SETT). 125 healthy subjects (mean age 24.44±4.46 years; 62.4% female, 37.6% male) performed SETT at baseline and under one of five experimental conditions (n=25 per group): EA (2 Hz with burst pulses in alternating one-phase-square wave pulses; burst length 180 μs, burst frequency 80 Hz, stimulation time/pulse width 3 s), tramadol (50 mg), ibuprofen (400 mg), placebo pill or non-treatment control. EA was performed at LI4 and LI10 contralaterally with stimulation beginning 20 min before SETT and lasting throughout SETT. The pharmacological interventions were given in a double-blind design 1 h before the SETT assessment. Subjects showed a hypoalgesic effect of the opiate and of the EA for subjective pain rating (EA p=0.0051; tramadol p=0.0299), and pain tolerance index (time/rating) (EA p=0.043; tramadol p=0.047) analysed using analysis of covariance. More subjects reached the strict time limit of 30 min (analysed by logistic regression and adjusted OR as a post-hoc analysis) under EA compared with most other experimental conditions. Only EA and tramadol were not significantly different (95% Wald confidence limits: non-treatment control vs EA 0.011 to 0.542; placebo pill vs EA 0.009 to 0.438; ibuprofen vs EA 0.021 to 0.766; tramadol vs EA 0.065 to 1.436). In a laboratory setting, an EA procedure was as effective as a single dose of an orally administered opiate in reducing experimentally induced ischaemic pain.

47 CFR 11.51 - EAS code and Attention Signal Transmission requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... transmitting requirements contained in this section for the combined stations or systems with one EAS Encoder... the encoder. (2) Manual interrupt of programming and transmission of EAS messages may be used. EAS...

Quantum Mechanical Calculations of Monoxides of Silicon Carbide Molecules

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-03-01

Data for CO Final Energy Charge Mult Basis Set (hart) EA (eV) ZPE (hart) EA (eV) w/ ZPE 0 1 DVZ -112.6850703739 2.02121 -1 2 DVZ...Energy Charge Mult Basis Set (hart) EA (eV) ZPE (hart) EA (eV) w/ ZPE 0 1 DVZ -363.7341927429 0.617643 -1 2 DVZ -363.7114852831 0 3 DVZ...Input Geometry Output Geometry Basis Set Final Energy (hart) EA (eV) ZPE (hart) EA (eV) w/ ZPE -1 2 O-C-Si Linear O-C-Si Linear DZV -401.5363

On the determination of the depth of EAS development maximum using the lateral distribution of Cerenkov light at distances 150 m from EAS axis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aliev, N.; Alimov, T.; Kakhkharov, M.; Makhmudov, B. M.; Rakhimova, N.; Tashpulatov, R.; Kalmykov, N. N.; Khristiansen, G. B.; Prosin, V. V.

1985-01-01

The Samarkand extensive air showers (EAS) array was used to measure the mean and individual lateral distribution functions (LDF) of EAS Cerenkov light. The analysis of the individual parameters b showed that the mean depth of EAS maximum and the variance of the depth distribution of maxima of EAS with energies of approx. 2x10 to the 15th power eV can properly be described in terms of Kaidalov-Martirosyan quark-gluon string model (QGSM).

Collaboration between Schools and Social Services. ERIC Digest Series, Number EA 48.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liontos, Lynn Balster

The growing chasm between society's complex problems and what the systems can do to help is driving reform in all sectors. Just as schools alone cannot compensate for the disadvantage created by troubled homes and communities, welfare and social agencies cannot hold out a hopeful future to clients lacking employment abilities. Comprehensive…

Integrative rodent models for assessing male reproductive toxicity of environmental endocrine active substances

PubMed Central

Auger, Jacques; Eustache, Florence; Rouiller-Fabre, Virginie; Canivenc-Lavier, Marie Chantal; Livera, Gabriel

2014-01-01

In the present review, we first summarize the main benefits, limitations and pitfalls of conventional in vivo approaches to assessing male reproductive structures and functions in rodents in cases of endocrine active substance (EAS) exposure from the postulate that they may provide data that can be extrapolated to humans. Then, we briefly present some integrated approaches in rodents we have recently developed at the organism level. We particularly focus on the possible effects and modes of action (MOA) of these substances at low doses and in mixtures, real-life conditions and at the organ level, deciphering the precise effects and MOA on the fetal testis. It can be considered that the in vivo experimental EAS exposure of rodents remains the first choice for studies and is a necessary tool (together with the epidemiological approach) for understanding the reproductive effects and MOA of EASs, provided the pitfalls and limitations of the rodent models are known and considered. We also provide some evidence that classical rodent models may be refined for studying the multiple consequences of EAS exposure, not only on the reproductive axis but also on various hormonally regulated organs and tissues, among which several are implicated in the complex process of mammalian reproduction. Such models constitute an interesting way of approaching human exposure conditions. Finally, we show that organotypic culture models are powerful complementary tools, especially when focusing on the MOA. All these approaches have contributed in a combinatorial manner to a better understanding of the impact of EAS exposure on human reproduction. PMID:24369134

Electroacupuncture improves neurobehavioral function and brain injury in rat model of intracerebral hemorrhage.

PubMed

Zhu, Yan; Deng, Li; Tang, Huajun; Gao, Xiaoqing; Wang, Youhua; Guo, Kan; Kong, Jiming; Yang, Chaoxian

2017-05-01

Acupuncture has been widely used as a treatment for stroke in China for a long time. Recently, studies have demonstrated that electroacupuncture (EA) can accelerate intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH)-induced angiogenesis in rats. In the present study, we investigated the effect of EA on neurobehavioral function and brain injury in ICH rats. ICH was induced by stereotactic injection of collagenase type I and heparin into the right caudate putamen. Adult ICH rats were randomly divided into the following three groups: model control group (MC), EA at non-acupoint points group (non-acupoint EA) and EA at Baihui and Dazhui acupoints group (EA). The neurobehavioral deficits of ICH rats were assessed by modified neurological severity score (mNSS) and gait analysis. The hemorrhage volume and glucose metabolism of hemorrhagic foci were detected by PET/CT. The expression levels of MBP, NSE and S100-B proteins in serum were tested by ELISA. The histopathological features were examined by haematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining. Apoptosis-associated proteins in the perihematomal region were observed by immunohistochemistry. EA treatment significantly promoted the recovery of neurobehavioral function in ICH rats. Hemorrhage volume reduced in EA group at day 14 when compared with MC and non-acupoint EA groups. ELISA showed that the levels of MBP, NSE and S100-B in serum were all down-regulated by EA treatment. The brain tissue of ICH rat in the EA group was more intact and compact than that in the MC and non-acupoint groups. In the perihematomal regions, the expression of Bcl-2 protein increased and expressions of Caspase-3 and Bax proteins decreased in the EA group vs MC and non-acupoint EA groups. Our data suggest that EA treatment can improve neurobehavioral function and brain injury, which were likely connected with the absorption of hematoma and regulation of apoptosis-related proteins. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Delayed brain ischemia tolerance induced by electroacupuncture pretreatment is mediated via MCP-induced protein 1

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Emerging studies have demonstrated that pretreatment with electroacupuncture (EA) induces significant tolerance to focal cerebral ischemia. The present study seeks to determine the involvement of monocyte chemotactic protein-induced protein 1 (MCPIP1), a recently identified novel modulator of inflammatory reactions, in the cerebral neuroprotection conferred by EA pretreatment in the animal model of focal cerebral ischemia and to elucidate the mechanisms of EA pretreatment-induced ischemic brain tolerance. Methods Twenty-four hours after the end of the last EA pretreatment, focal cerebral ischemia was induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 90 minutes in male C57BL/6 mice and MCPIP1 knockout mice. Transcription and expression of MCPIP1 gene was monitored by qRT-PCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry. The neurobehavioral scores, infarction volumes, proinflammatory cytokines and leukocyte infiltration in brain and NF-κB signaling were evaluated after ischemia/reperfusion. Results MCPIP1 protein and mRNA levels significantly increased specifically in mouse brain undergoing EA pretreatment. EA pretreatment significantly attenuated the infarct volume, neurological deficits, upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines and leukocyte infiltration in the brain of wild-type mice after MCAO compared with that of the non-EA group. MCPIP1-deficient mice failed to evoke EA pretreatment-induced tolerance compared with that of the control MCPIP1 knockout group without EA treatment. Furthermore, the activation of NF-κB signaling was significantly reduced in EA-pretreated wild-type mice after MCAO compared to that of the non-EA control group and MCPIP1-deficient mice failed to confer the EA pretreatment-induced inhibition of NF-κB signaling after MCAO. Conclusions Our data demonstrated that MCPIP1 deficiency caused significant lack of EA pretreatment-induced cerebral protective effects after MCAO compared with the control group and that MCPIP1 is involved in EA pretreatment-induced delayed brain ischemia tolerance. PMID:23663236

Epoxyalkane:Coenzyme M Transferase Gene Diversity and Distribution in Groundwater Samples from Chlorinated-Ethene-Contaminated Sites

PubMed Central

Liu, Xikun

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Epoxyalkane:coenzyme M transferase (EaCoMT) plays a critical role in the aerobic biodegradation and assimilation of alkenes, including ethene, propene, and the toxic chloroethene vinyl chloride (VC). To improve our understanding of the diversity and distribution of EaCoMT genes in the environment, novel EaCoMT-specific terminal-restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) and nested-PCR methods were developed and applied to groundwater samples from six different contaminated sites. T-RFLP analysis revealed 192 different EaCoMT T-RFs. Using clone libraries, we retrieved 139 EaCoMT gene sequences from these samples. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that a majority of the sequences (78.4%) grouped with EaCoMT genes found in VC- and ethene-assimilating Mycobacterium strains and Nocardioides sp. strain JS614. The four most-abundant T-RFs were also matched with EaCoMT clone sequences related to Mycobacterium and Nocardioides strains. The remaining EaCoMT sequences clustered within two emergent EaCoMT gene subgroups represented by sequences found in propene-assimilating Gordonia rubripertincta strain B-276 and Xanthobacter autotrophicus strain Py2. EaCoMT gene abundance was positively correlated with VC and ethene concentrations at the sites studied. IMPORTANCE The EaCoMT gene plays a critical role in assimilation of short-chain alkenes, such as ethene, VC, and propene. An improved understanding of EaCoMT gene diversity and distribution is significant to the field of bioremediation in several ways. The expansion of the EaCoMT gene database and identification of incorrectly annotated EaCoMT genes currently in the database will facilitate improved design of environmental molecular diagnostic tools and high-throughput sequencing approaches for future bioremediation studies. Our results further suggest that potentially significant aerobic VC degraders in the environment are not well represented in pure culture. Future research should aim to isolate and characterize aerobic VC-degrading bacteria from these underrepresented groups. PMID:27016563

Late onset hereditary episodic ataxia.

PubMed

Damak, M; Riant, F; Boukobza, M; Tournier-Lasserve, E; Bousser, M-G; Vahedi, K

2009-05-01

Episodic ataxias (EA) are hereditary paroxysmal neurological diseases with considerable clinical and genetic heterogeneity. So far seven loci have been reported and four different genes have been identified. Analysis of additional sporadic or familial cases is needed to better delineate the clinical and genetic spectrum of EA. A two generation French family with late onset episodic ataxia was examined. All consenting family members had a brain MRI with volumetric analysis of the cerebellum. Haplotype analysis was performed for the EA2 locus (19p13), the EA5 locus (2q22), the EA6 locus (5p13) and the EA7 locus (19q13). Mutation screening was performed for all exons of CACNA1A (EA2), EAAT1 (EA6) and the coding sequence of KCNA1 (EA1). Four family members had episodic ataxia with onset between 48 and 56 years of age but with heterogeneity in the severity and duration of symptoms. The two most severely affected had daily attacks of EA with a slowly progressive and disabling permanent cerebellar ataxia and a poor response to acetazolamide. Brain MRI showed in three affected members a decrease in the ratio of cerebellar volume:total intracranial volume, indicating cerebellar atrophy. No deleterious mutation was found in CACNA1A, SCA6, EAAT1 or KCNA1. In addition, the EA5 locus was excluded. A new phenotype of episodic ataxia has been described, characterised clinically by a late onset and progressive permanent cerebellar signs, and genetically by exclusion of the genes so far identified in EA.

Synthesis, characterization and anticancer studies of Ni(II), Pd(II) and Pt(II) complexes with Schiff base derived from N-methylhydrazinecarbothioamide and 2-hydroxy-5-methoxy-3-nitrobenzaldehyde

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arafath, Md. Azharul; Adam, Farook; Razali, Mohd. R.; Ahmed Hassan, Loiy E.; Ahamed, Mohamed B. Khadeer; Majid, Amin Malik S. A.

2017-02-01

A carbothioamide NSO tridentate Schiff base ligand (HL) and its square planar complexes Na[NiLOAc], Na[PdLOAc] and [PtLdmso] have been synthesized and characterized on the basis of melting point, elemental analysis, FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, UV-Vis spectra. The structure of HL was elucidated with X-ray diffraction analysis. In the present study, the synthesized compounds were evaluated for their anticancer properties against three human cancer cell lines breast cancer (MCF-7), cervical (Hela), and colon (HCT-116). In addition, the cytotoxicity of the synthesized compounds was tested on a normal human cell line (human endothelial cell line EA.hy926). Among the tested compounds, the complex [NiLOAc] excelled in halting proliferation of the cervical and colon cancer cells with median inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 28.33 and 34.4 μM, respectively. The complex, [PdLOAc] demonstrated selective cytotoxicity against breast cancer line MCF-7 with IC50 = 47.5 μM, while HL showed inhibitory effect against colon cancer cell line (HCT-116) with IC50 = 55.66 μM. The complex, [PtLdmso] showed mild activity against breast cancer (MCF-7) and cervical cancer (Hela) cells with IC50 = 64.44 and 68.3 μM, respectively, whereas, it displayed insignificant cytotoxicity against human endothelial cells (EA.hy926) with IC50 > 200 μM. Cancer cells treated with [NiLOAc] showed apoptotic features such as membrane blebbing and DNA condensation. Thus, the findings of the present study demonstrated that the series of metal complexes of HL could form the new lead for development of cancer chemotherapies to treat human cervical, breast and colon malignancies.

Expected Fitness Gains of Randomized Search Heuristics for the Traveling Salesperson Problem.

PubMed

Nallaperuma, Samadhi; Neumann, Frank; Sudholt, Dirk

2017-01-01

Randomized search heuristics are frequently applied to NP-hard combinatorial optimization problems. The runtime analysis of randomized search heuristics has contributed tremendously to our theoretical understanding. Recently, randomized search heuristics have been examined regarding their achievable progress within a fixed-time budget. We follow this approach and present a fixed-budget analysis for an NP-hard combinatorial optimization problem. We consider the well-known Traveling Salesperson Problem (TSP) and analyze the fitness increase that randomized search heuristics are able to achieve within a given fixed-time budget. In particular, we analyze Manhattan and Euclidean TSP instances and Randomized Local Search (RLS), (1+1) EA and (1+[Formula: see text]) EA algorithms for the TSP in a smoothed complexity setting, and derive the lower bounds of the expected fitness gain for a specified number of generations.

Simulating (log(c) n)-wise Independence in NC

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-05-01

independent) distribution. However, Xk (A) = (1x(I))k = Z Z y (i,)...X(ik). iEA ijEAi 2 EA IkEA So Lemma 2.4 applies to show that any k-wise independent...AEA AEAi1EA ikEA So henceforth we want an X such that F(X) >_ E[F(X)]. 2.5 Generating k-Wise Independent Variables It still remains to demonstrate a k

Cloning, production, and functional expression of the bacteriocin enterocin A, produced by Enterococcus faecium T136, by the yeasts Pichia pastoris, Kluyveromyces lactis, Hansenula polymorpha, and Arxula adeninivorans.

PubMed

Borrero, Juan; Kunze, Gotthard; Jiménez, Juan J; Böer, Erik; Gútiez, Loreto; Herranz, Carmen; Cintas, Luis M; Hernández, Pablo E

2012-08-01

The bacteriocin enterocin A (EntA) produced by Enterococcus faecium T136 has been successfully cloned and produced by the yeasts Pichia pastoris X-33EA, Kluyveromyces lactis GG799EA, Hansenula polymorpha KL8-1EA, and Arxula adeninivorans G1212EA. Moreover, P. pastoris X-33EA and K. lactis GG799EA produced EntA in larger amounts and with higher antimicrobial and specific antimicrobial activities than the EntA produced by E. faecium T136.

Analysis of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Construction in the Air Force

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-03-01

I EQ 8.2: Day light & Views - Views for 90% of Spaces EA 1: 32% for New Buli ld ings/28% for Existing ... IEQ8.1: Daylight& Views - Dayli ght 75...Publlic ... EA 2: On-Site Renewable Energy- 1%* ID 1.5: lnnovat1ion in Design - 1 Credit* EA 1: 38% for New Buli ld ings/34% for Existing ... EA 6...Green Power MR 3: M ater ia ls Reuse: 5% • 1 Point EA 1: 34% for New Bui ld ings/3D% for Existing .. . EA 1: 36% for New Buli ld ings/32% for Existing

Expert Advisor (EA) Evaluation System Using Web-based ELECTRE Method in Foreign Exchange (Forex) Market

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Satibi; Widodo, Catur Edi; Farikhin

2018-02-01

This research aims to optimize forex trading profit automatically using EA but its still keep considering accuracy and drawdown levels. The evaluation system will classify EA performance based on trading market sessions (Sydney, Tokyo, London and New York) to determine the right EA to be used in certain market sessions. This evaluation system is a web-based ELECTRE methods that interact in real-time with EA through web service and are able to present real-time charts performance dashboard using web socket protocol communications. Web applications are programmed using NodeJs. In the testing period, all EAs had been simulated 24 hours in all market sessions for three months, the best EA is valued by its profit, accuracy and drawdown criteria that calculated using web-based ELECTRE method. The ideas of this research are to compare the best EA on testing period with collaboration performances of each best classified EA by market sessions. This research uses three months historical data of EUR/USD as testing period and other 3 months as validation period. As a result, performance of collaboration four best EA classified by market sessions can increase profits percentage consistently in testing and validation periods and keep securing accuracy and drawdown levels.

Reduced energy availability: implications for bone health in physically active populations.

PubMed

Papageorgiou, Maria; Dolan, Eimear; Elliott-Sale, Kirsty J; Sale, Craig

2018-04-01

The present review critically evaluates existing literature on the effects of short- and long-term low energy availability (EA) on bone metabolism and health in physically active individuals. We reviewed the literature on the short-term effects of low EA on markers of bone metabolism and the long-term effects of low EA on outcomes relating to bone health (bone mass, microarchitecture and strength, bone metabolic markers and stress fracture injury risk) in physically active individuals. Available evidence indicates that short-term low EA may increase markers of bone resorption and decrease markers of bone formation in physically active women. Bone metabolic marker responses to low EA are less well known in physically active men. Cross-sectional studies investigating the effects of long-term low EA suggest that physically active individuals who have low EA present with lower bone mass, altered bone metabolism (favouring bone resorption), reduced bone strength and increased risk for stress fracture injuries. Reduced EA has a negative influence on bone in both the short- and long-term, and every effort should be made to reduce its occurrence in physically active individuals. Future interventions are needed to explore the effects of long-term reduced EA on bone health outcomes, while short-term low EA studies are also required to give insight into the pathophysiology of bone alterations.

Percutaneous treatment of complex biliary stone disease using endourological technique and literature review

PubMed Central

Korkes, Fernando; Carneiro, Ariê; Nasser, Felipe; Affonso, Breno Boueri; Galastri, Francisco Leonardo; de Oliveira, Marcos Belotto; Macedo, Antônio Luiz de Vasconcellos

2015-01-01

Most biliary stone diseases need to be treated surgically. However, in special cases that traditional biliary tract endoscopic access is not allowed, a multidisciplinary approach using hybrid technique with urologic instrumental constitute a treatment option. We report a case of a patient with complex intrahepatic stones who previously underwent unsuccessful conventional approaches, and who symptoms resolved after treatment with hybrid technique using an endourologic technology. We conducted an extensive literature review until October 2012 of manuscripts indexed in PubMed on the treatment of complex gallstones with hybrid technique. The multidisciplinary approach with hybrid technique using endourologic instrumental represents a safe and effective treatment option for patients with complex biliary stone who cannot conduct treatment with conventional methods. PMID:26061073

Does labour epidural slow the progress of labour and lead to complications? Obstetricians' perception working in private and public sector teaching hospitals in a developing country.

PubMed

Sohaib, Muhammad; Ismail, Samina

2015-12-01

Obstetricians play a major role in the decision making for provision of analgesia for the woman in labour. As epidural analgesia (EA) is the most preferred technique, it is important to know obstetricians' perception regarding its effect on progress of labour and associated complications. The 6 months cross-sectional study included 114 obstetricians from teaching hospitals. After informed consent, obstetricians were asked to fill a predesigned questionnaire containing 13 close ended questions regarding their perception on the effect of EA on progress of labour, EA complications and whether they would recommend EA to their patients or not. Other variables included age, gender, training in EA, practice type and hospital settings (private or public sector). Majority of the obstetricians had the perception of EA prolonging the first stage (89.5%) and second stage (98.2%) of labour, increasing the rate of caesarean section (87.7%), instrumental delivery (58.8%) and increasing the incidence of backache (85.5%). None of the obstetricians received any formal training in EA. Majority (84.2%) were not sure if they would recommend EA to their patients. When these responses were compared between public and private sector, a statistically higher percentage (P < 0.001) of public sector obstetricians had negative perception of EA. Perception of obstetrician regarding EA is contrary to the current evidence. There is a need to introduce formal curriculum on EA in obstetric training program and conduct regular refresher courses.

Ellagic acid inhibits the proliferation of human pancreatic carcinoma PANC-1 cells in vitro and in vivo.

PubMed

Cheng, Hao; Lu, Chenglin; Tang, Ribo; Pan, Yiming; Bao, Shanhua; Qiu, Yudong; Xie, Min

2017-02-14

Ellagic aicd (EA), a dietary polyphenolic compound found in plants and fruits, possesses various pharmacological activities. This study investigated the effect of EA on human pancreatic carcinoma PANC-1 cells both in vitro and in vivo; and defined the associated molecular mechanisms. In vitro, the cell growth and repairing ability were assessed by CCK-8 assay and wound healing assay. The cell migration and invasion activity was evaluated by Tanswell assay. In vivo, PANC-1 cell tumor-bearing mice were treated with different concentrations of EA. We found that EA significantly inhibited cell growth, cell repairing activity, and cell migration and invasion in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment of PANC-1 xenografted mice with EA resulted in significant inhibition in tumor growth and prolong mice survival rate. Furthermore, flow cytometric analysis showed that EA increased the percentage of cells in the G1 phase of cell cycle. Western blot analysis revealed that EA inhibited the expression of COX-2 and NF-κB. In addition, EA reversed epithelial to mesenchymal transition by up-regulating E-cadherin and down-regulating Vimentin. In summary, the present study demonstrated that EA inhibited cell growth, cell repairing activity, cell migration and invasion in a dose-dependent manner. EA also effectively inhibit human pancreatic cancer growth in mice. The anti-tumor effect of EA might be related to cell cycle arrest, down-regulating the expression of COX-2 and NF-κB, reversing epithelial to mesenchymal transition by up-regulating E-cadherin and down-regulating Vimentin. Our findings suggest that the use of EA would be beneficial for the management of pancreatic cancer.

Electroacupuncture modulation of reflex hypertension in rats: role of cholecystokinin octapeptide

PubMed Central

Tjen-A-Looi, Stephanie C.; Guo, Zhi-Ling; Longhurst, John C.

2013-01-01

Acupuncture or electroacupuncture (EA) potentially offers a nonpharmacological approach to reduce high blood pressure (BP). However, ∼70% of the patients and animal subjects respond to EA, while 30% do not. EA acts, in part, through an opioid mechanism in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (rVLM) to inhibit sympathoexcitatory reflexes induced by gastric distention. CCK-8 opposes the action of opioids during analgesia. Therefore, we hypothesized that CCK-8 in the rVLM antagonizes EA modulation of sympathoexcitatory cardiovascular reflex responses. Male rats anesthetized with ketamine and α-chloralose subjected to repeated gastric distension every 10 min were examined for their responsiveness to EA (2 Hz, 0.5 ms, 1–4 mA) at P5-P6 acupoints overlying median nerve. Repeated gastric distension every 10 min evoked consistent sympathoexcitatory responses. EA at P5-P6 modulated gastric distension-induced responses. Microinjection of CCK-8 in the rVLM reversed the EA effect in seven responders. The CCK1 receptor antagonist devazepide microinjected into the rVLM converted six nonresponders to responders by lowering the reflex response from 21 ± 2.2 to 10 ± 2.9 mmHg (first vs. second application of EA). The EA modulatory action in rats converted to responders with devazepide was reversed with rVLM microinjection of naloxone (n = 6). Microinjection of devazepide in the absence of a second application of EA did not influence the primary pressor reflexes of nonresponders. These data suggest that CCK-8 antagonizes EA modulation of sympathoexcitatory cardiovascular responses through an opioid mechanism and that inhibition of CCK-8 can convert animals that initially are unresponsive to EA to become responsive. PMID:23785073

Ergot cluster-encoded catalase is required for synthesis of chanoclavine-I in Aspergillus fumigatus.

PubMed

Goetz, Kerry E; Coyle, Christine M; Cheng, Johnathan Z; O'Connor, Sarah E; Panaccione, Daniel G

2011-06-01

Genes required for ergot alkaloid biosynthesis are clustered in the genomes of several fungi. Several conserved ergot cluster genes have been hypothesized, and in some cases demonstrated, to encode early steps of the pathway shared among fungi that ultimately make different ergot alkaloid end products. The deduced amino acid sequence of one of these conserved genes (easC) indicates a catalase as the product, but a role for a catalase in the ergot alkaloid pathway has not been established. We disrupted easC of Aspergillus fumigatus by homologous recombination with a truncated copy of that gene. The resulting mutant (ΔeasC) failed to produce the ergot alkaloids typically observed in A. fumigatus, including chanoclavine-I, festuclavine, and fumigaclavines B, A, and C. The ΔeasC mutant instead accumulated N-methyl-4-dimethylallyltryptophan (N-Me-DMAT), an intermediate recently shown to accumulate in Claviceps purpurea strains mutated at ccsA (called easE in A. fumigatus) (Lorenz et al. Appl Environ Microbiol 76:1822-1830, 2010). A ΔeasE disruption mutant of A. fumigatus also failed to accumulate chanoclavine-I and downstream ergot alkaloids and, instead, accumulated N-Me-DMAT. Feeding chanoclavine-I to the ΔeasC mutant restored ergot alkaloid production. Complementation of either ΔeasC or ΔeasE mutants with the respective wild-type allele also restored ergot alkaloid production. The easC gene was expressed in Escherichia coli, and the protein product displayed in vitro catalase activity with H(2)O(2) but did not act, in isolation, on N-Me-DMAT as substrate. The data indicate that the products of both easC (catalase) and easE (FAD-dependent oxidoreductase) are required for conversion of N-Me-DMAT to chanoclavine-I.

High correlation of estimated local conduction velocity with natural logarithm of bipolar electrogram amplitude in the reentry circuit of atrial flutter.

PubMed

Itoh, Taihei; Kimura, Masaomi; Sasaki, Shingo; Owada, Shingen; Horiuchi, Daisuke; Sasaki, Kenichi; Ishida, Yuji; Takahiko, Kinjo; Okumura, Ken

2014-04-01

Low conduction velocity (CV) in the area showing low electrogram amplitude (EA) is characteristic of reentry circuit of atypical atrial flutter (AFL). The quantitative relationship between CV and EA remains unclear. We characterized AFL reentry circuit in the right atrium (RA), focusing on the relationship between local CV and bipolar EA on the circuit. We investigated 26 RA AFL (10 with typical AFL; 10 atypical incisional AFL; 6 atypical nonincisional AFL) using CARTO system. By referring to isochronal and propagation maps delineated during AFL, points activated faster on the circuit were selected (median, 7 per circuit). At the 196 selected points obtained from all patients, local CV measured between the adjacent points and bipolar EA were analyzed. There was a highly significant correlation between local CV and natural logarithm of EA (lnEA) (R(2) = 0.809, P < 0.001). Among 26 AFL, linear regression analysis of mean CV, calculated by dividing circuit length (152.3 ± 41.7 mm) by tachycardia cycle length (TCL) (median 246 msec), and mean lnEA, calculated by dividing area under curve of lnEA during one tachycardia cycle by TCL, showed y = 0.695 + 0.191x (where: y = mean CV, x = lnEA; R(2) = 0.993, P < 0.001). Local CV estimated from EA with the use of this formula showed a highly significant linear correlation with that measured by the map (R(2) = 0.809, P < 0.001). The lnEA and estimated local CV show a highly positive linear correlation. CV is possibly estimated by EA measured by CARTO mapping. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Improvements in Metabolic Health with Consumption of Ellagic Acid and Subsequent Conversion into Urolithins: Evidence and Mechanisms12

PubMed Central

Kang, Inhae; Buckner, Teresa; Gu, Liwei

2016-01-01

Ellagic acid (EA) is a naturally occurring polyphenol found in some fruits and nuts, including berries, pomegranates, grapes, and walnuts. EA has been investigated extensively because of its antiproliferative action in some cancers, along with its anti-inflammatory effects. A growing body of evidence suggests that the intake of EA is effective in attenuating obesity and ameliorating obesity-mediated metabolic complications, such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and atherosclerosis. In this review, we summarize how intake of EA regulates lipid metabolism in vitro and in vivo, and delineate the potential mechanisms of action of EA on obesity-mediated metabolic complications. We also discuss EA as an epigenetic effector, as well as a modulator of the gut microbiome, suggesting that EA may exert a broader spectrum of health benefits than has been demonstrated to date. Therefore, this review aims to suggest the potential metabolic benefits of consumption of EA-containing fruits and nuts against obesity-associated health conditions. PMID:27633111

Ventriculo-arterial coupling detects occult RV dysfunction in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary vascular disease.

PubMed

Axell, Richard G; Messer, Simon J; White, Paul A; McCabe, Colm; Priest, Andrew; Statopoulou, Thaleia; Drozdzynska, Maja; Viscasillas, Jamie; Hinchy, Elizabeth C; Hampton-Till, James; Alibhai, Hatim I; Morrell, Nicholas; Pepke-Zaba, Joanna; Large, Stephen R; Hoole, Stephen P

2017-04-01

Chronic thromboembolic disease (CTED) is suboptimally defined by a mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) <25 mmHg at rest in patients that remain symptomatic from chronic pulmonary artery thrombi. To improve identification of right ventricular (RV) pathology in patients with thromboembolic obstruction, we hypothesized that the RV ventriculo-arterial (Ees/Ea) coupling ratio at maximal stroke work (Ees/Ea max sw ) derived from an animal model of pulmonary obstruction may be used to identify occult RV dysfunction (low Ees/Ea) or residual RV energetic reserve (high Ees/Ea). Eighteen open chested pigs had conductance catheter RV pressure-volume (PV)-loops recorded during PA snare to determine Ees/Ea max sw This was then applied to 10 patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) and ten patients with CTED, also assessed by RV conductance catheter and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. All patients were then restratified by Ees/Ea. The animal model determined an Ees/Ea max sw  = 0.68 ± 0.23 threshold, either side of which cardiac output and RV stroke work fell. Two patients with CTED were identified with an Ees/Ea well below 0.68 suggesting occult RV dysfunction whilst three patients with CTEPH demonstrated Ees/Ea ≥ 0.68 suggesting residual RV energetic reserve. Ees/Ea > 0.68 and Ees/Ea < 0.68 subgroups demonstrated constant RV stroke work but lower stroke volume (87.7 ± 22.1 vs. 60.1 ± 16.3 mL respectively, P  = 0.006) and higher end-systolic pressure (36.7 ± 11.6 vs. 68.1 ± 16.7 mmHg respectively, P  < 0.001). Lower Ees/Ea in CTED also correlated with reduced exercise ventilatory efficiency. Low Ees/Ea aligns with features of RV maladaptation in CTED both at rest and on exercise. Characterization of Ees/Ea in CTED may allow for better identification of occult RV dysfunction. © 2017 The Authors. Physiological Reports published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of The Physiological Society and the American Physiological Society.

Effect of (E)-5-(2-bromovinyl)-2'-deoxyuridine on several parameters of Epstein-Barr virus infection.

PubMed

Zhang, Z X; Liu, Y X; Chen, H C; Allaudeen, H S; De Clercq, E

1984-01-01

The selective and potent anti-herpesvirus drug, (E)-5-(2-bromovinyl)-2'-deoxyuridine (BVdU), has been examined for its inhibitory effects on several parameters of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection in the lymphoblastoid cell lines Raji, P3HR-1, B-95-8 and P3 hybrid cells (a human embryo oropharyngeal cell line fused with a nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell line). At a dosage of 0.03 to 0.1 mM, BVdU caused a marked inhibition of (i) spontaneous viral capsid antigen (VCA) expression in B-95-8 and P3 hybrid cells, (ii) VCA expression and DNA synthesis in B-95-8 cells induced with croton oil and n-butyrate, (iii) early antigen (EA) expression and DNA synthesis in Raji cells superinfected with EBV, and (iv) VCA expression and DNA synthesis in B-95-8 cells superinfected with EBV. In its inhibitory effects on these various parameters of EBV infection, BVdU appears to be comparable to acyclovir [9-(2-hydroxyethoxymethyl)guanine], another selective anti-herpesvirus drug which has been previously recognized as an effective inhibitor of EBV replication.

Euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide.

PubMed

Swarte, N B; Heintz, A P

1999-12-01

In the Netherlands there are about 9700 explicit requests for euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide (EAS) each year, of which approximately 3600 are granted. Other countries have criticized the Dutch policy concerning EAS. It has been suggested that palliative care in the Netherlands is not adequate and that euthanasia is often requested by patients with depression. In addition, this criticism is partly based on the firm stance that 'human life has an absolute value and a human being has under no circumstances the right of self-determination over his or her own life'. Many aspects of EAS are currently the focus of attention in the literature. In this review the following aspects of EAS are discussed: ethics, judicial questions, the relationship between depression and euthanasia, and the impact of EAS on members of the family. Also, the current situation concerning EAS in the Netherlands is summarized and described. Despite the fact that EAS have been widely discussed in the literature, the association between depression and the number of requests for EAS remains to be discovered. It is also not yet known what the effects of EAS are on members of the family, and whether unnatural death causes a higher incidence of complicated grief.

The diagnosis of fetal esophageal atresia and its implications on perinatal outcome.

PubMed

Kunisaki, Shaun M; Bruch, Steven W; Hirschl, Ronald B; Mychaliska, George B; Treadwell, Marjorie C; Coran, Arnold G

2014-10-01

The current diagnostic accuracy and perinatal outcome of fetuses with esophageal atresia (EA) continues to be debated. In this review, we report on our experience at a tertiary care fetal center with the prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of EA. Enrollment criteria included a small/absent stomach bubble with a normal or elevated amniotic fluid index between 2005 and 2013. Perinatal outcomes were analyzed and compared to postnatally diagnosed EA cases. Of the 22 fetuses evaluated, polyhydramnios occurred in 73%. Three (14%) died in utero or shortly after birth, but none had EA. In the presence of an absent/small stomach and polyhydramnios, the positive predictive value for EA was 67%. In fetal EA cases confirmed postnatally (group 1, n = 11), there were no differences in gestational age, birthweight, or mortality when compared to postnatally diagnosed infants (group 2, n = 59). Group 1 was associated with long-gap EA, need for esophageal replacement, and increased hospital length of stay. When taken in context with the current literature, we conclude that ultrasound findings suggestive of EA continue to be associated with a relatively high rate of false positives. However, among postnatally confirmed cases, there is an increased risk for long-gap EA and prolonged hospitalization.

Rac1/WAVE2 and Cdc42/N-WASP Participation in Actin-Dependent Host Cell Invasion by Extracellular Amastigotes of Trypanosoma cruzi.

PubMed

Bonfim-Melo, Alexis; Ferreira, Éden R; Mortara, Renato A

2018-01-01

This study evaluated the participation of host cell Rho-family GTPases and their effector proteins in the actin-dependent invasion by Trypanosoma cruzi extracellular amastigotes (EAs). We observed that all proteins were recruited and colocalized with actin at EA invasion sites in live or fixed cells. EA internalization was inhibited in cells depleted in Rac1, N-WASP, and WAVE2. Time-lapse experiments with Rac1, N-WASP and WAVE2 depleted cells revealed that EA internalization kinetics is delayed even though no differences were observed in the proportion of EA-induced actin recruitment in these groups. Overexpression of constitutively active constructs of Rac1 and RhoA altered the morphology of actin recruitments to EA invasion sites. Additionally, EA internalization was increased in cells overexpressing CA-Rac1 but inhibited in cells overexpressing CA-RhoA. WT-Cdc42 expression increased EA internalization, but curiously, CA-Cdc42 inhibited it. Altogether, these results corroborate the hypothesis of EA internalization in non-phagocytic cells by a phagocytosis-like mechanism and present Rac1 as the key Rho-family GTPase in this process.

Rac1/WAVE2 and Cdc42/N-WASP Participation in Actin-Dependent Host Cell Invasion by Extracellular Amastigotes of Trypanosoma cruzi

PubMed Central

Bonfim-Melo, Alexis; Ferreira, Éden R.; Mortara, Renato A.

2018-01-01

This study evaluated the participation of host cell Rho-family GTPases and their effector proteins in the actin-dependent invasion by Trypanosoma cruzi extracellular amastigotes (EAs). We observed that all proteins were recruited and colocalized with actin at EA invasion sites in live or fixed cells. EA internalization was inhibited in cells depleted in Rac1, N-WASP, and WAVE2. Time-lapse experiments with Rac1, N-WASP and WAVE2 depleted cells revealed that EA internalization kinetics is delayed even though no differences were observed in the proportion of EA-induced actin recruitment in these groups. Overexpression of constitutively active constructs of Rac1 and RhoA altered the morphology of actin recruitments to EA invasion sites. Additionally, EA internalization was increased in cells overexpressing CA-Rac1 but inhibited in cells overexpressing CA-RhoA. WT-Cdc42 expression increased EA internalization, but curiously, CA-Cdc42 inhibited it. Altogether, these results corroborate the hypothesis of EA internalization in non-phagocytic cells by a phagocytosis-like mechanism and present Rac1 as the key Rho-family GTPase in this process. PMID:29541069

[Effect of electroacupuncture of different acupoints on the excitability of detrusor muscle and the expression of BDNF and TrkB in the spinal cord of rats with urinary retention due to spinal cord injury].

PubMed

Wang, Jun-hua; Chen, Bang-guo; Yin, Jing; Wang, Gang; Zou, Wei-Geng; Luo, Xiao-juan

2009-12-01

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) of different acupoints on the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and tropomyosine receptor kinase B (TrkB) in the spinal cord and the excitability of detrusor muscle of the uninary bladder in rats with urinary retention owing to spinal cord injury (SCI). A total of 100 female SD rats were randomly divided into normal, sham-operation (sham), model, EA-Guanyuan (CV 4), and EA-Shuidao (ST 28) groups, with 20 cases in each. SCI induced urinary retention model was established by using weight dropping method. EA (1 mA, 2 Hz/15 Hz) was applied to "Guanyuan" (CV 4) and "Shuidao" (ST 28) respectively for 20 min, once a day for 10 days. The excitability (tone, contraction frequency) of the detrusor muscle of the bladder was detected in vitro by using electrophysiological method, and the expression of BDNF and TrkB in spinal cord was determined by immunohistochemistry staining. In comparison with normal control and sham groups, the tension and the contraction frequency of detrusor muscle in model group lowered significantly (P<0.05), while compared with model group, both the tension and contraction frequency of detrusor muscle increased pronouncedly in EA-CV 4 and EA-ST 28 groups (P<0.05), and the effect of EA-CV 4 was apparently superior to that of EA-ST 28 (P<0.05). In comparison with normal and sham groups, the BDNF and TrkB immunoreaction positive cells in the spinal cord were significantly more in model group (P<0.05). Compared with model group, those of EA-CV 4 and EA-ST 28 groups were obviously further increased (P<0.05), and the effect of EA-CV 4 group was markedly superior to that of EA-ST 28 group (P<0.05). EA of CV 4 and ST 28 can raise the excitability of the smooth muscle of the uninary bladder in rats with SCI-induced urinary retention, which may be related to its effects in upregulating the expression of BDNF and TrkB in the spinal cord. The effects of EA of CV 4 were evidently superior to those of EA of ST 28.

Using evolutionary algorithms for fitting high-dimensional models to neuronal data.

PubMed

Svensson, Carl-Magnus; Coombes, Stephen; Peirce, Jonathan Westley

2012-04-01

In the study of neurosciences, and of complex biological systems in general, there is frequently a need to fit mathematical models with large numbers of parameters to highly complex datasets. Here we consider algorithms of two different classes, gradient following (GF) methods and evolutionary algorithms (EA) and examine their performance in fitting a 9-parameter model of a filter-based visual neuron to real data recorded from a sample of 107 neurons in macaque primary visual cortex (V1). Although the GF method converged very rapidly on a solution, it was highly susceptible to the effects of local minima in the error surface and produced relatively poor fits unless the initial estimates of the parameters were already very good. Conversely, although the EA required many more iterations of evaluating the model neuron's response to a series of stimuli, it ultimately found better solutions in nearly all cases and its performance was independent of the starting parameters of the model. Thus, although the fitting process was lengthy in terms of processing time, the relative lack of human intervention in the evolutionary algorithm, and its ability ultimately to generate model fits that could be trusted as being close to optimal, made it far superior in this particular application than the gradient following methods. This is likely to be the case in many further complex systems, as are often found in neuroscience.

[Heterosis, macromolecular composition and several physico-chemical properties of the nucleolar-chromatic complex].

PubMed

Shereshevskaia, Ts M; Krasnopol'skiĭ, Iu M; Verkhovskiĭ, B A

1977-01-01

The nucleolar-chromatin complex of the hybrids liver cells is shown to contain a larger amount of RNA and phospholipids. When teeated with 1.0 M NaCl nucleoproteins of hybrid organisms display greater dissociation. A large number of free loci was determined in the matrix when titrating nucleolar chromatin complex with actinomycin "D". The effect of heterosis might be connected with a specific physiochemical state of chromosome in hybrid organisms.

Euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a prospective study.

PubMed

Maessen, Maud; Veldink, Jan H; Onwuteaka-Philipsen, Bregje D; Hendricks, Henk T; Schelhaas, Helenius J; Grupstra, Hepke F; van der Wal, Gerrit; van den Berg, Leonard H

2014-10-01

The objective of this study is to determine if quality of care, symptoms of depression, disease characteristics and quality of life of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are related to requesting euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide (EAS) and dying due to EAS. Therefore, 102 ALS patients filled out structured questionnaires every 3 months until death and the results were correlated with EAS. Thirty-one percent of the patients requested EAS, 69% of whom eventually died as a result of EAS (22% of all patients). Ten percent died during continuous deep sedation; only one of them had explicitly requested death to be hastened. Of the patients who requested EAS, 86% considered the health care to be good or excellent, 16% felt depressed, 45% experienced loss of dignity and 42% feared choking. These percentages do not differ from the number of patients who did not explicitly request EAS. The frequency of consultations of professional caregivers and availability of appliances was similar in both groups. Our findings do not support continuous deep sedation being used as a substitute for EAS. In this prospective study, no evidence was found for a relation between EAS and the quality and quantity of care received, quality of life and symptoms of depression in patients with ALS. Our study does not support the notion that unmet palliative care needs are related to EAS.

Comparison of Electroacupuncture and Morphine-Mediated Analgesic Patterns in a Plantar Incision-Induced Pain Model

PubMed Central

Tsai, Shih-Ying; Chen, Kuen-Bao; Hsu, Sheng-Feng; Chen, Julia Yi-Ru

2014-01-01

Electroacupuncture (EA) is a complementary therapy to improve morphine analgesia for postoperative pain, but underlying mechanism is not well-known. Herein, we investigated EA-induced analgesic effect in a plantar incision (PI) model in male Sprague-Dawley rats. PI was performed at the left hind paw. EA of 4 Hz and high intensity or sham needling was conducted at right ST36 prior to PI and repeated for another 2 days. Behavioral responses to mechanical and thermal stimuli, spinal phospho-ERK, and Fos expression were all analyzed. In additional groups, naloxone and morphine were administered to elucidate involvement of opioid receptors and for comparison with EA. EA pretreatment significantly reduced post-PI tactile allodynia for over 1 day; repeated treatments maintained analgesic effect. Intraperitoneal naloxone could reverse EA analgesia. Low-dose subcutaneous morphine (1 mg/kg) had stronger inhibitory effect on PI-induced allodynia than EA for 1 h. However, analgesic tolerance appeared after repeated morphine injections. Both EA and morphine could equally inhibit PI-induced p-ERK and Fos inductions. We conclude that though EA and morphine attenuate postincision pain through opioid receptor activations, daily EA treatments result in analgesic accumulation whereas daily morphine injections develop analgesic tolerance. Discrepant pathways and mechanisms underlying two analgesic means may account for the results. PMID:25530786

Molecular mechanism of Spinocerebellar Ataxia type 6: glutamine repeat disorder, channelopathy and transcriptional dysregulation. The multifaceted aspects of a single mutation

PubMed Central

Giunti, Paola; Mantuano, Elide; Frontali, Marina; Veneziano, Liana

2015-01-01

Spinocerebellar Ataxia type 6 (SCA6) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease characterized by late onset, slowly progressive, mostly pure cerebellar ataxia. It is one of three allelic disorders associated to CACNA1A gene, coding for the Alpha1 A subunit of P/Q type calcium channel Cav2.1 expressed in the brain, particularly in the cerebellum. The other two disorders are Episodic Ataxia type 2 (EA2), and Familial Hemiplegic Migraine type 1 (FHM1). These disorders show distinct phenotypes that often overlap but have different pathogenic mechanisms. EA2 and FHM1 are due to mutations causing, respectively, a loss and a gain of channel function. SCA6, instead, is associated with short expansions of a polyglutamine stretch located in the cytoplasmic C-terminal tail of the protein. This domain has a relevant role in channel regulation, as well as in transcription regulation of other neuronal genes; thus the SCA6 CAG repeat expansion results in complex pathogenic molecular mechanisms reflecting the complex Cav2.1 C-terminus activity. We will provide a short review for an update on the SCA6 molecular mechanism. PMID:25762895

Karhunen Loève approximation of random fields by generalized fast multipole methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schwab, Christoph; Todor, Radu Alexandru

2006-09-01

KL approximation of a possibly instationary random field a( ω, x) ∈ L2( Ω, d P; L∞( D)) subject to prescribed meanfield Ea(x)=∫a(ω,x) dP(ω) and covariance Va(x,x')=∫(a(ω,x)-Ea(x))(a(ω,x')-Ea(x')) dP(ω) in a polyhedral domain D⊂Rd is analyzed. We show how for stationary covariances Va( x, x') = ga(| x - x'|) with ga( z) analytic outside of z = 0, an M-term approximate KL-expansion aM( ω, x) of a( ω, x) can be computed in log-linear complexity. The approach applies in arbitrary domains D and for nonseparable covariances Ca. It involves Galerkin approximation of the KL eigenvalue problem by discontinuous finite elements of degree p ⩾ 0 on a quasiuniform, possibly unstructured mesh of width h in D, plus a generalized fast multipole accelerated Krylov-Eigensolver. The approximate KL-expansion aM( x, ω) of a( x, ω) has accuracy O(exp(- bM1/ d)) if ga is analytic at z = 0 and accuracy O( M- k/ d) if ga is Ck at zero. It is obtained in O( MN(log N) b) operations where N = O( h- d).

Endothelial MMP-9 drives the inflammatory response in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).

PubMed

Ramella, Martina; Boccafoschi, Francesca; Bellofatto, Kevin; Md, Antonia Follenzi; Fusaro, Luca; Boldorini, Renzo; Casella, Francesco; Porta, Carla; Settembrini, Piergiorgio; Cannas, Mario

2017-01-01

Progression of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is typified by chronic inflammation and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation of the aortic wall. Vascular inflammation involves complex interactions among inflammatory cells, endothelial cells (ECs), vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMCs), and ECM. Although vascular endothelium and medial neoangiogenesis play a key role in AAA, the molecular mechanisms underlying their involvement are only partially understood. In AAA biopsies, we found increased MMP-9, IL-6, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), which correlated with massive medial neo-angiogenesis (C4d positive staining). In this study, we developed an in vitro model in order to characterize the role of endothelial matrix metalloproteinase-9 (e-MMP-9) as a potential trigger of medial disruption and in the inflammatory response bridging between ECs and vSMC. Lentiviral-mediated silencing of e-MMP-9 through RNA interference inhibited TNF-alpha-mediated activation of NF-κB in EA.hy926 human endothelial cells. In addition, EA.hy926 cells void of MMP-9 failed to migrate in a 3D matrix. Moreover, silenced EA.hy926 affected vSMC behavior in terms of matrix remodeling. In fact, also MMP-9 in vSMC resulted inhibited when endothelial MMP-9 was suppressed.

[Effect of Electroacupuncture on Expression of Cortical srGAP 1 and Cdc 42 in Rats with Focal Cerebral Infarction].

PubMed

Dai, En-ze; Long, Fei; Gong, Biao; Guo, Quan-hu; Wang, Ying; Zeng, Zhi-hua

2015-06-01

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) intervention on the neurological function and the expression change of Slit-Robo GTPase-activating protein-1 (srGAP 1) and cell division-cycle 42 (Cdc 42) in the cortex of rats with cerebral ischemic injury (CIRI) , so as to explore the mechanism of EA in the management of cerebral infarction. A total of 48 male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly and equally divided into control, model, non-acupoint EA and EA groups (n = 12/group). The CIRI model was established based on the modified Zea Longa method. EA intervention was applied for 30 min, once a day for 14 days. Modified neurologic severity scores (mNSS) were assessed on day 1,3,7 and 14 after mode- ling. Immunofluorescence assay was used to detect the immunoactivity and distribution of srGAP 1 and Cdc 42 in the cortical ischemic region. Western blot was employed to detect the expression of srGAP 1 and Cdc 42 in the affected cortex. The mNSS displayed that the neurological score in the EA group was significantly lower than that in the model group and non-acupoint EA group at the 7th d and 14th d (P<0. 01). Immunofluorescence results showed that cerebral srGAP 1 and Cdc 42 were ex- pressed mainly in the cytoplasm. The fluorescence intensity of srGAP 1 of the EA group was significantly lower than that of the model group and non-acupoint EA group(P<0. 01). Meanwhile the fluorescence intensity of Cdc 42 of the EA group was markedly higher than that in the model group and non-acupoint EA group(P<0. 01). Western blot assay indicated that the expression level of srGAP 1 in the model group was significantly higher than that of the control group( P<0. 01) ,and that of the EA group was much lower than those of the model group and non-acupoint EA group(P<0. 01). There was no significant difference of srGAP 1 expression levels between the non-acupoint EA group and the model group(P>0. 05). Additionally, the protein expression of Cdc 42 in the model group was slightly higher than that of the control group(P>0. 05), and that of the EA group was significantly higher than those of the model group and non-acupoint EA group(P<0. 01). There was no significant difference of Cdc 42 expression levels between the non-acupoint EA group and the model group(P>0. 05). Cerebral infarction induced increase of cerebral srGAP 1 and decrease of Cdc 42 can be reversed by acupoint EA intervention in CIRI rats, which may be responsible for its effect in improving impaired neurological function after cerebral infarction.

Emotional availability, understanding emotions, and recognition of facial emotions in obese mothers with young children.

PubMed

Bergmann, Sarah; von Klitzing, Kai; Keitel-Korndörfer, Anja; Wendt, Verena; Grube, Matthias; Herpertz, Sarah; Schütz, Astrid; Klein, Annette M

2016-01-01

Recent research has identified mother-child relationships of low quality as possible risk factors for childhood obesity. However, it remains open how mothers' own obesity influences the quality of mother-child interaction, and particularly emotional availability (EA). Also unclear is the influence of maternal emotional competencies, i.e. understanding emotions and recognizing facial emotions. This study aimed to (1) investigate differences between obese and normal-weight mothers regarding mother-child EA, maternal understanding emotions and recognition of facial emotions, and (2) explore how maternal emotional competencies and maternal weight interact with each other in predicting EA. A better understanding of these associations could inform strategies of obesity prevention especially in children at risk. We assessed EA, understanding emotions and recognition of facial emotions in 73 obese versus 73 normal-weight mothers, and their children aged 6 to 47 months (Mchild age=24.49, 80 females). Obese mothers showed lower EA and understanding emotions. Mothers' normal weight and their ability to understand emotions were positively associated with EA. The ability to recognize facial emotions was positively associated with EA in obese but not in normal-weight mothers. Maternal weight status indirectly influenced EA through its effect on understanding emotions. Maternal emotional competencies may play an important role for establishing high EA in interaction with the child. Children of obese mothers experience lower EA, which may contribute to overweight development. We suggest including elements that aim to improve maternal emotional competencies and mother-child EA in prevention or intervention programmes targeting childhood obesity. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of ketamine versus thiopental sodium anesthetic induction and a small dose of fentanyl on emergence agitation after sevoflurane anesthesia in children undergoing brief ophthalmic surgery.

PubMed

Jung, Hyun Ju; Kim, Jong Bun; Im, Kyong Shil; Oh, Seung Hwa; Lee, Jae Myeong

2010-02-01

Emergence agitation (EA) in children after sevoflurane anesthesia is common. The purpose of this study was to compare the incidences of EA between ketamine and thiopental sodium induction in children underwent sevoflurane anesthesia. We also evaluated if a small dose of fentanyl could reduce the incidence of EA. The patients who were scheduled for strabismus or entropion surgery were divided into 4 groups. The patients in Groups 1 and 2 were induced anesthesia with ketamine 1.5 mg/kg; those in Groups 3 and 4 were induced with thiopental sodium 5 mg/kg. The patients in Groups 1 and 3 received an injection of fentanyl 1.5 microg/kg, whereas the patients in Groups 2 and 4 received IV saline of the same volume. Anesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane. The recovery characteristics and EA in recovery room were assessed. The incidence of EA was significantly higher in Groups 2 and 4 and there was no difference between Groups 2 and 4. Group 2 had almost an eleven-fold higher risk of developing EA than did Group 1, and the incidence of EA in Group 4 was sixty-nine-fold higher than that of Group 1. The risk factor for EA was only the kind of medication. Preoperative anxiety had no significant correlation with EA. The incidence of EA after sevoflurane anesthesia is similar between ketamine and thiopental sodium anesthetic induction in children undergoing pediatric ophthalmic surgery. Also, the addition of a small dose of fentanyl after anesthetic induction decreases the incidence of EA.

Comparison of electroacupuncture frequency-related effects on heart rate variability in healthy volunteers: a randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Lee, Jong-Ho; Kim, Kyu-Hyeong; Hong, Jin-Woo; Lee, Won-Chul; Koo, Sungtae

2011-06-01

This study aimed to compare the effects of high frequency electroacupuncture (EA) and low-frequency EA on the autonomic nervous system by using a heart rate variability measuring device in normal individuals. Fourteen participants were recruited and each participated in the high-frequency and low-frequency sessions (crossover design). The order of sessions was randomized and the interval between the two sessions was over 2 weeks. Participants received needle insertion with 120-Hz stimulation during the high-frequency session (high-frequency EA group), and with 2-Hz stimulation during the low-frequency session (low-frequency EA group). Acupuncture needles were directly inserted perpendicularly to LI 4 and LI 11 acupoints followed by delivery of electric pulses to these points for 15 minutes. Heart rate variability was measured 5 minutes before and after EA stimulation by a heart rate variability measuring system. We found a significant increase in the standard deviation of the normal-to-normal interval in the high-frequency EA group, with no change in the low-frequency EA group. Both the high-frequency and low-frequency EA groups showed no significant differences in other parameters including high-frequency power, low-frequency power, and the ratio of low-frequency power to high-frequency power. Based on these findings, we concluded that high-frequency EA stimulation is more effective than low-frequency EA stimulation in increasing autonomic nervous activity and there is no difference between the two EA frequencies in enhancing sympathovagal balance. Copyright © 2011 Korean Pharmacopuncture Institute. Published by .. All rights reserved.

Identification of hybrid node and link communities in complex networks

PubMed Central

He, Dongxiao; Jin, Di; Chen, Zheng; Zhang, Weixiong

2015-01-01

Identifying communities in complex networks is an effective means for analyzing complex systems, with applications in diverse areas such as social science, engineering, biology and medicine. Finding communities of nodes and finding communities of links are two popular schemes for network analysis. These schemes, however, have inherent drawbacks and are inadequate to capture complex organizational structures in real networks. We introduce a new scheme and an effective approach for identifying complex mixture structures of node and link communities, called hybrid node-link communities. A central piece of our approach is a probabilistic model that accommodates node, link and hybrid node-link communities. Our extensive experiments on various real-world networks, including a large protein-protein interaction network and a large network of semantically associated words, illustrated that the scheme for hybrid communities is superior in revealing network characteristics. Moreover, the new approach outperformed the existing methods for finding node or link communities separately. PMID:25728010

Identification of hybrid node and link communities in complex networks.

PubMed

He, Dongxiao; Jin, Di; Chen, Zheng; Zhang, Weixiong

2015-03-02

Identifying communities in complex networks is an effective means for analyzing complex systems, with applications in diverse areas such as social science, engineering, biology and medicine. Finding communities of nodes and finding communities of links are two popular schemes for network analysis. These schemes, however, have inherent drawbacks and are inadequate to capture complex organizational structures in real networks. We introduce a new scheme and an effective approach for identifying complex mixture structures of node and link communities, called hybrid node-link communities. A central piece of our approach is a probabilistic model that accommodates node, link and hybrid node-link communities. Our extensive experiments on various real-world networks, including a large protein-protein interaction network and a large network of semantically associated words, illustrated that the scheme for hybrid communities is superior in revealing network characteristics. Moreover, the new approach outperformed the existing methods for finding node or link communities separately.

Identification of hybrid node and link communities in complex networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Dongxiao; Jin, Di; Chen, Zheng; Zhang, Weixiong

2015-03-01

Identifying communities in complex networks is an effective means for analyzing complex systems, with applications in diverse areas such as social science, engineering, biology and medicine. Finding communities of nodes and finding communities of links are two popular schemes for network analysis. These schemes, however, have inherent drawbacks and are inadequate to capture complex organizational structures in real networks. We introduce a new scheme and an effective approach for identifying complex mixture structures of node and link communities, called hybrid node-link communities. A central piece of our approach is a probabilistic model that accommodates node, link and hybrid node-link communities. Our extensive experiments on various real-world networks, including a large protein-protein interaction network and a large network of semantically associated words, illustrated that the scheme for hybrid communities is superior in revealing network characteristics. Moreover, the new approach outperformed the existing methods for finding node or link communities separately.

47 CFR 11.19 - EAS Non-participating National Authorization Letter.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false EAS Non-participating National Authorization Letter. 11.19 Section 11.19 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL EMERGENCY ALERT... level EAS. It states that the EAS Participant has agreed to go off the air or discontinue programming on...

47 CFR 11.19 - EAS Non-participating National Authorization Letter.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false EAS Non-participating National Authorization Letter. 11.19 Section 11.19 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL EMERGENCY ALERT... level EAS. It states that the EAS Participant has agreed to go off the air or discontinue programming on...

DNA surface hybridization regimes

PubMed Central

Gong, Ping; Levicky, Rastislav

2008-01-01

Surface hybridization reactions, in which sequence-specific recognition occurs between immobilized and solution nucleic acids, are routinely carried out to quantify and interpret genomic information. Although hybridization is fairly well understood in bulk solution, the greater complexity of an interfacial environment presents new challenges to a fundamental understanding, and hence application, of these assays. At a surface, molecular interactions are amplified by the two-dimensional nature of the immobilized layer, which focuses the nucleic acid charge and concentration to levels not encountered in solution, and which impacts the hybridization behavior in unique ways. This study finds that, at low ionic strengths, an electrostatic balance between the concentration of immobilized oligonucleotide charge and solution ionic strength governs the onset of hybridization. As ionic strength increases, the importance of electrostatics diminishes and the hybridization behavior becomes more complex. Suppression of hybridization affinity constants relative to solution values, and their weakened dependence on the concentration of DNA counterions, indicate that the immobilized strands form complexes that compete with hybridization to analyte strands. Moreover, an unusual regime is observed in which the surface coverage of immobilized oligonucleotides does not significantly influence the hybridization behavior, despite physical closeness and hence compulsory interactions between sites. These results are interpreted and summarized in a diagram of hybridization regimes that maps specific behaviors to experimental ranges of ionic strength and probe coverage. PMID:18381819

Detection and isolation of nucleic acid sequences using a bifunctional hybridization probe

DOEpatents

Lucas, Joe N.; Straume, Tore; Bogen, Kenneth T.

2000-01-01

A method for detecting and isolating a target sequence in a sample of nucleic acids is provided using a bifunctional hybridization probe capable of hybridizing to the target sequence that includes a detectable marker and a first complexing agent capable of forming a binding pair with a second complexing agent. A kit is also provided for detecting a target sequence in a sample of nucleic acids using a bifunctional hybridization probe according to this method.

Results of EAS characteristics calculations in the framework of the universal hadronic interaction model NEXUS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kalmykov, N. N.; Ostapchenko, S. S.; Werner, K.

An extensive air shower (EAS) calculation scheme based on cascade equations and some EAS characteristics for energies 1014 -1017 eV are presented. The universal hadronic interaction model NEXUS is employed to provide the necessary data concerning hadron-air collisions. The influence of model assumptions on the longitudinal EAS development is discussed in the framework of the NEXUS and QGSJET models. Applied to EAS simulations, perspectives of combined Monte Carlo and numerical methods are considered.

Logistics: Implementation of Performance - Based Logistics for the Javelin Weapon System

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-03-07

the c.ontext of each lice within the Automated Cost 24 Batimating-hTasgraled Tools ( ACEIT ) mode], the Army’s standard cost model, containing the EA was...fully validated the EA, The Javelin E.A was valihdted through an extensive review of the EA cost documentation in (te ACEIT file in coordination with... ACEIT file of the system cost estimate- This documentation was conndered to be suflicienT by the CEAC Director once the EA was determinmd to be valid

Regioisomer-specific electron affinities and electronic structures of C 70 para-adducts at polar and equatorial positions with (bromo)benzyl radicals: photoelectron spectroscopy and theoretical study

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

Hou, Gao-Lei; Li, Lei-Jiao; Li, Shu-Hui

Negative ion photoelectron spectroscopy shows interesting regioisomer-specific electron affinities (EAs) of 2,5– and 7,23– para-adducts of C70 [(ArCH2)2C70] (Ar = Ph, o-, m-, and p-BrC6H4). Their EA values are larger than that of C70 by 5-150 meV with the 2,5– polar adducts’ EAs being higher than their corresponding 7,23– equatorial counterparts, exhibiting appreciable EA tunable ranges and regioisomer specificity. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reproduce both the experimental EA values and EA trends very well.

Extracurricular associations and college enrollment.

PubMed

Gibbs, Benjamin G; Erickson, Lance D; Dufur, Mikaela J; Miles, Aaron

2015-03-01

There is consistent evidence that student involvement in extracurricular activities (EAs) is associated with numerous academic benefits, yet understanding how peer associations within EAs might influence this link is not well understood. Using Add Health's comprehensive data on EA participation across 80 schools in the United States, we develop a novel measure of peer associations within EA activities. We find that EA participation with high achieving peers has a nontrivial link to college enrollment, even after considering individual, peer, and school-level factors. This suggests that school policies aimed at encouraging student exposure to high achieving peers in EAs could have an important impact on a student's later educational outcomes. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

An investigation of environmental and sustainability discourses associated with the substantive purposes of environmental assessment

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

Rozema, Jaap G., E-mail: j.rozema@uea.ac.uk; Bond, Alan J., E-mail: alan.bond@uea.ac.uk; Cashmore, Matthew, E-mail: cashmore@plan.aau.dk

2012-02-15

This paper investigates the discursive construction of the substantive purposes of environmental assessment (EA). It addresses these purposes by exploring the complex and often multifaceted linkages between political factors and plural views of democracy, public participation, and the role of science that are embedded in environmental and sustainability discourses. The interaction between policy-making and public actors leads to the formulation of divergent and potentially competing rationales for public participation, and for social appraisal more generally. Participatory approaches have also given impetus to the development of several interpretations on the role of science in assessment procedures. Science is important in mediatingmore » public participation and the two are therefore reciprocally linked. This leads to discourses that become manifest in the construction of substantive purposes. Discourse analysis in EA is a relevant method for examining trends and patterns in sustainable development. It is argued that public participation is an important, if not decisive, variable in the articulation and civil legitimacy of certain purposes. A general proposition that results from this paper is that EA, although typically presented as an objective scientific tool, is an intrinsically normative process. Enhanced knowledge on the construction, and reconstruction over time, of substantive purposes is required if environmental and sustainability discourses are to be used and understood as meaningful analytical instruments to assess the socio-political implications of EA. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Substantive purposes related to environmental assessment may be best analyzed through discourse analysis. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Environmental and sustainability discourses are contingent on the level of participatory democracy and civic science. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Public participation is a decisive variable in the construction of the substantive purpose of environmental assessment.« less

Visceral adiposity and skeletal muscle mass are independently and synergistically associated with left ventricular structure and function: the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study.

PubMed

Park, Juri; Kim, Nan Hee; Kim, Seong Hwan; Kim, Jin-Seok; Kim, Yong Hyun; Lim, Hong Euy; Kim, Eung Ju; Na, Jin Oh; Cho, Goo-Yeong; Baik, Inkyung; Kim, Doo Man; Choi, Dong Seop; Lee, Seung Ku; Shin, Chol

2014-10-20

Obesity and low muscle mass may coexist as age-related changes in body composition. We aimed to investigate the effect of visceral adiposity and skeletal muscle mass on left ventricular (LV) structure and function in the general population. A total of 1941 participants without known cardiovascular disease were enrolled from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study. Visceral fat area (VFA) was assessed by computed tomography. Appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) was estimated by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and was used as a percentage of body weight (ASM/Wt). LV structure and function were assessed by tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) echocardiography. Across VFA tertiles, ASM increased, but ASM/Wt decreased (all P<0.001). In multivariate models adjusted for conventional cardiovascular risk factors, LV mass index and LV diastolic parameters, such as left atrial dimension, TDI Ea velocity, and E/Ea ratio, were significantly impaired as VFA increased. On the other hand, an increase in ASM/Wt was associated with a decrease in LV mass index and improvement of LV diastolic parameters. With regard to LV mass index and TDI Ea velocity, VFA and ASM/Wt showed synergistic effects (all P interaction<0.05). When both VFA and ASM/Wt were simultaneously included in the same model, both remained independent predictors of LV mass index and TDI Ea velocity. More visceral fat and less muscle mass are independently and synergistically associated with an increase in LV mass index and impairment of LV diastolic parameters. Further research is needed to explore the complex mechanisms underlying these associations. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Electro-acupuncture stimulation acts on the basal ganglia output pathway to ameliorate motor impairment in Parkinsonian model rats.

PubMed

Jia, Jun; Li, Bo; Sun, Zuo-Li; Yu, Fen; Wang, Xuan; Wang, Xiao-Min

2010-04-01

The role of electro-acupuncture (EA) stimulation on motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD) has not been well studied. In a rat hemiparkinsonian model induced by unilateral transection of the medial forebrain bundle (MFB), EA stimulation improved motor impairment in a frequency-dependent manner. Whereas EA stimulation at a low frequency (2 Hz) had no effect, EA stimulation at a high frequency (100 Hz) significantly improved motor coordination. However, neither low nor high EA stimulation could significantly enhance dopamine levels in the striatum. EA stimulation at 100 Hz normalized the MFB lesion-induced increase in midbrain GABA content, but it had no effect on GABA content in the globus pallidus. These results suggest that high-frequency EA stimulation improves motor impairment in MFB-lesioned rats by increasing GABAergic inhibition in the output structure of the basal ganglia.

Molecular interactions in ethyl acetate-chlorobenzene binary solution: Dielectric, spectroscopic studies and quantum chemical calculations.

PubMed

Karthick, N K; Kumbharkhane, A C; Joshi, Y S; Mahendraprabu, A; Shanmugam, R; Elangovan, A; Arivazhagan, G

2017-05-05

Dielectric studies using Time Domain Reflectometry method has been carried out on the binary solution of Ethyl acetate (EA) with Chlorobenzene (CBZ) over the entire composition range. Spectroscopic (FTIR and 13 C NMR) signatures of neat EA, CBZ and their equimolar binary solution have also been recorded. The results of the spectroscopic studies favour the presence of (CBZ) CH⋯OC (EA), (EA) methylene CH⋯π electrons (CBZ) and (EA) methyl CH⋯Cl (CBZ) contacts which have been validated using quantum chemical calculations. Dimerization of CBZ has been identified. Presence of β-clusters has been identified in all the solutions. Although EA and CBZ molecules have nearly equal molar volumes, CBZ molecules experience larger hindrance for the rotation than EA molecules. Very small excess dielectric constant (ε E ) values may be correlated with weak heteromolecular forces and/or closed heteromolecular association. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Molecular interactions in ethyl acetate-chlorobenzene binary solution: Dielectric, spectroscopic studies and quantum chemical calculations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karthick, N. K.; Kumbharkhane, A. C.; Joshi, Y. S.; Mahendraprabu, A.; Shanmugam, R.; Elangovan, A.; Arivazhagan, G.

2017-05-01

Dielectric studies using Time Domain Reflectometry method has been carried out on the binary solution of Ethyl acetate (EA) with Chlorobenzene (CBZ) over the entire composition range. Spectroscopic (FTIR and 13C NMR) signatures of neat EA, CBZ and their equimolar binary solution have also been recorded. The results of the spectroscopic studies favour the presence of (CBZ) Csbnd H ⋯ Odbnd C (EA), (EA) methylene Csbnd H ⋯ π electrons (CBZ) and (EA) methyl Csbnd H ⋯ Cl (CBZ) contacts which have been validated using quantum chemical calculations. Dimerization of CBZ has been identified. Presence of β-clusters has been identified in all the solutions. Although EA and CBZ molecules have nearly equal molar volumes, CBZ molecules experience larger hindrance for the rotation than EA molecules. Very small excess dielectric constant (εE) values may be correlated with weak heteromolecular forces and/or closed heteromolecular association.

Emotional attachment and emotional availability tele-intervention for adoptive families.

PubMed

Baker, Megan; Biringen, Zeynep; Meyer-Parsons, Beatrice; Schneider, Abby

2015-01-01

This study evaluated the new online Emotional Attachment and Emotional Availability (EA2) Intervention for use with adoptive families in enhancing parent-child EA, parental perceptions of EA, child attachment behaviors, parent-child emotional attachment, and reducing parent-reported child behavioral problems and parenting-related stress. Participants in this study were adoptive parents and their adopted children ages 1.5 to 5 years old (N = 15 dyads). Participants were placed in an immediate intervention group (IG) or a delayed intervention group (DG) that would receive the 6-week EA2 Tele-Intervention after the IG. Results revealed significant differences in the IG in child behavioral problems, parent-child EA, parental perceptions of EA, and parent-child emotional attachment, improvements not seen in the DG. Analysis of effects of the DG after receiving the EA2 Tele-Intervention revealed significant differences over time also in most of these qualities. © 2015 Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health.

Experiential acceptance, motivation for recovery, and treatment outcome in eating disorders

PubMed Central

Espel, Hallie M.; Goldstein, Stephanie P.; Manasse, Stephanie M.; Juarascio, Adrienne S.

2016-01-01

Purpose This study sought to test whether the relationship between experiential acceptance (EA) and treatment outcome among eating disorder (ED) patients was mediated by motivation. Methods Upon admission to a residential ED treatment facility, female patients completed measures of EA, motivation, and baseline ED symptom severity (covariate); symptom severity was reassessed at discharge. Results Higher levels of baseline EA predicted significantly greater symptom reduction during treatment. Moreover, results from bootstrapped mediation analyses indicated that the relationship between EA and treatment outcome was partially mediated by motivation: increased EA was associated with greater motivation to give up ED behaviors at the beginning of treatment, and this led to greater symptom reduction from admission to discharge. Conclusions Motivation appears to be one mechanism by which EA facilitates improved treatment outcomes in EDs. Further development of interventions that promote EA as a means for improving motivation and subsequent ED treatment response may be warranted. PMID:26511501

Experiential acceptance, motivation for recovery, and treatment outcome in eating disorders.

PubMed

Espel, Hallie M; Goldstein, Stephanie P; Manasse, Stephanie M; Juarascio, Adrienne S

2016-06-01

This study sought to test whether the relationship between experiential acceptance (EA) and treatment outcome among eating disorder (ED) patients was mediated by motivation. Upon admission to a residential ED treatment facility, female patients completed measures of EA, motivation, and baseline ED symptom severity (covariate); symptom severity was reassessed at discharge. Higher levels of baseline EA predicted significantly greater symptom reduction during treatment. Moreover, results from bootstrapped mediation analyses indicated that the relationship between EA and treatment outcome was partially mediated by motivation: increased EA was associated with greater motivation to give up ED behaviors at the beginning of treatment, and this led to greater symptom reduction from admission to discharge. Motivation appears to be one mechanism by which EA facilitates improved treatment outcomes in EDs. Further development of interventions that promote EA as a means for improving motivation and subsequent ED treatment response may be warranted.

Neural mechanism of gastric motility regulation by electroacupuncture at RN12 and BL21: A paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus-dorsal vagal complex-vagus nerve-gastric channel pathway

PubMed Central

Wang, Hao; Liu, Wen-Jian; Shen, Guo-Ming; Zhang, Meng-Ting; Huang, Shun; He, Ying

2015-01-01

AIM: To study the neural mechanism by which electroacupuncture (EA) at RN12 (Zhongwan) and BL21 (Weishu) regulates gastric motility. METHODS: One hundred and forty-four adult Sprague Dawley rats were studied in four separate experiments. Intragastric pressure was measured using custom-made rubber balloons, and extracellular neuron firing activity, which is sensitive to gastric distention in the dorsal vagal complex (DVC), was recorded by an electrophysiological technique. The expression levels of c-fos, motilin (MTL) and gastrin (GAS) in the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus (PVN) were assayed by immunohistochemistry, and the expression levels of motilin receptor (MTL-R) and gastrin receptor (GAS-R) in both the PVN and the gastric antrum were assayed by western blotting. RESULTS: EA at RN12 + BL21 (gastric Shu and Mu points), BL21 (gastric Back-Shu point), RN12 (gastric Front-Mu point), resulted in increased neuron-activating frequency in the DVC (2.08 ± 0.050, 1.17 ± 0.023, 1.55 ± 0.079 vs 0.75 ± 0.046, P < 0.001) compared with a model group. The expression of c-fos (36.24 ± 1.67, 29.41 ± 2.55, 31.79 ± 3.00 vs 5.73 ± 2.18, P < 0.001), MTL (22.48 ± 2.66, 20.76 ± 2.41, 19.17 ± 1.71 vs 11.68 ± 2.52, P < 0.001), GAS (24.99 ± 2.95, 21.69 ± 3.24, 23.03 ± 3.09 vs 12.53 ± 2.15, P < 0.001), MTL-R (1.39 ± 0.05, 1.22 ± 0.05, 1.17 ± 0.12 vs 0.84 ± 0.06, P < 0.001), and GAS-R (1.07 ± 0.07, 0.91 ± 0.06, 0.78 ± 0.05 vs 0.45 ± 0.04, P < 0.001) increased in the PVN after EA compared with the model group. The expression of MTL-R (1.46 ± 0.14, 1.26 ± 0.11, 0.99 ± 0.07 vs 0.65 ± 0.03, P < 0.001), and GAS-R (1.63 ± 0.11, 1.26 ± 0.16, 1.13 ± 0.02 vs 0.80 ± 0.11, P < 0.001) increased in the gastric antrum after EA compared with the model group. Damaging the PVN resulted in reduced intragastric pressure (13.67 ± 3.72 vs 4.27 ± 1.48, P < 0.001). These data demonstrate that the signals induced by EA stimulation of acupoints RN12 and BL21 are detectable in the DVC and the PVN, and increase the levels of gastrointestinal hormones and their receptors in the PVN and gastric antrum to regulate gastric motility. CONCLUSION: EA at RN12 and BL21 regulates gastric motility, which may be achieved through the PVN-DVC-vagus-gastric neural pathway. PMID:26730159

47 CFR 90.763 - EA, Regional and nationwide system operations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Frequencies in the 220-222 MHz Band Policies Governing the Licensing and Use of Phase II Ea, Regional and Nationwide Systems § 90.763 EA, Regional and nationwide system operations. (a) A nationwide licensee... 47 Telecommunication 5 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false EA, Regional and nationwide system operations...

47 CFR 90.691 - Emission mask requirements for EA-based systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Emission mask requirements for EA-based systems. 90.691 Section 90.691 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) SAFETY AND... of Ea-Based Smr Systems in the 809-824/851-869 Mhz Band § 90.691 Emission mask requirements for EA...

47 CFR 11.55 - EAS operation during a State or Local Area emergency.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... day-to-day emergency situations posing a threat to life and property. Examples of natural emergencies... Participants providing foreign language programming should transmit all EAS announcements in the same language as the primary language of the EAS Participant. (5) Upon completion of the State or Local Area EAS...

47 CFR 11.55 - EAS operation during a State or Local Area emergency.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... day-to-day emergency situations posing a threat to life and property. Examples of natural emergencies... Participants providing foreign language programming should transmit all EAS announcements in the same language as the primary language of the EAS Participant. (5) Upon completion of the State or Local Area EAS...

47 CFR 11.55 - EAS operation during a State or Local Area emergency.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... day-to-day emergency situations posing a threat to life and property. Examples of natural emergencies... Participants providing foreign language programming should transmit all EAS announcements in the same language as the primary language of the EAS Participant. (5) Upon completion of the State or Local Area EAS...

32 CFR 775.5 - Classified actions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7609 et seq.). (b) It should be noted that a classified EA/EIS serves the same “informed decisionmaking” purpose as does a published unclassified EA/EIS. Even though the classified EA/EIS... be considered by the decisionmaker for the proposed action. The content of a classified EA/EIS (or...

36 CFR 1010.6 - Determination of requirement for EA or EIS.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... for EA or EIS. 1010.6 Section 1010.6 Parks, Forests, and Public Property PRESIDIO TRUST ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY § 1010.6 Determination of requirement for EA or EIS. In deciding whether to require the preparation of an EA or an EIS, the NEPA Compliance Coordinator will determine whether the proposal is one...

36 CFR 1010.11 - Preparation of an EA.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Preparation of an EA. 1010.11 Section 1010.11 Parks, Forests, and Public Property PRESIDIO TRUST ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY § 1010.11... prepare or require an EA at any time to assist planning and decision-making. (b) Content and format. An EA...

36 CFR 1010.11 - Preparation of an EA.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Preparation of an EA. 1010.11 Section 1010.11 Parks, Forests, and Public Property PRESIDIO TRUST ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY § 1010.11... prepare or require an EA at any time to assist planning and decision-making. (b) Content and format. An EA...

36 CFR 1010.11 - Preparation of an EA.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Preparation of an EA. 1010.11 Section 1010.11 Parks, Forests, and Public Property PRESIDIO TRUST ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY § 1010.11... prepare or require an EA at any time to assist planning and decision-making. (b) Content and format. An EA...

36 CFR 1010.11 - Preparation of an EA.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Preparation of an EA. 1010.11 Section 1010.11 Parks, Forests, and Public Property PRESIDIO TRUST ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY § 1010.11... prepare or require an EA at any time to assist planning and decision-making. (b) Content and format. An EA...

47 CFR 11.18 - EAS Designations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Designations. (a) National Primary (NP) is a source of EAS Presidential messages. (b) Local Primary (LP) is a... as specified in its EAS Local Area Plan. If it is unable to carry out this function, other LP sources... broadcast stations in the Local Area. (c) State Primary (SP) is a source of EAS State messages. These...

47 CFR 11.18 - EAS Designations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... Designations. (a) National Primary (NP) is a source of EAS Presidential messages. (b) Local Primary (LP) is a... as specified in its EAS Local Area Plan. If it is unable to carry out this function, other LP sources... broadcast stations in the Local Area. (c) State Primary (SP) is a source of EAS State messages. These...

Hole diffusivity in GaAsBi alloys measured by a picosecond transient grating technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nargelas, S.; Jarašiunas, K.; Bertulis, K.; Pačebutas, V.

2011-02-01

We applied a time-resolved transient grating technique for investigation of nonequilibrium carrier dynamics in GaAs1-xBix alloys with x =0.025-0.063. The observed decrease in carrier bipolar diffusivity with lowering temperature and its saturation below 80 K revealed a strong localization of nonequilibrium holes. Thermal activation energy ΔEa=46 meV of diffusivity and low hole mobility value μh=10-20 cm2/V s at room temperature confirmed the hybridization model of the localized Bi states with the valence band of GaAs. Nonlinear increase in carrier recombination rate with the Bi content, 1/τR∝Bi(x )3.2 indicated an increasing structural disorder in the alloy.

Exercise motivational regulations and exercise addiction: The mediating role of passion.

PubMed

Sicilia, Álvaro; Alcaraz-Ibáñez, Manuel; Lirola, María-Jesús; Burgueño, Rafael; Maher, Anthony

2018-05-23

Background and aims The study explored the mediating role of forms of passion in the relationship between motivational regulations in exercise and exercise addiction (EA). Methods A total of 485 university students (368 males and 117 females; M age  = 20.43, SD = 3.21) completed a questionnaire measuring the frequency and intensity of exercise, motivational regulations in exercise, passion for exercise, and EA. Controlling the effects of age, frequency, and intensity of practice, the relationships between the study variables were examined though a path analysis. Results Both self-determined and non-self-determined forms of motivation showed positive association with EA. The forms of motivation with greatest predictive power for EA were introjected and integrated regulations. Both forms of motivation had positive direct and indirect effects through obsessive passion (OP) on EA; however, integrated regulation also showed negative indirect effects through harmonious passion on EA. Conclusions Both forms of passion and, especially, OP, seem to affect how motivational regulations are associated with EA. These findings clarify the association found in previous studies between self-determined forms of motivation and EA.

Experiential avoidance mediates the association between thought suppression and mindfulness with problem gambling.

PubMed

Riley, Ben

2014-03-01

Experiential avoidance (EA) has been shown to be an important etiological and maintenance factor in a wide range psychopathology that includes addictive, anxiety, depressive and impulse control disorders. One common form of EA is thought suppression. Problem gambling causes enormous problems for afflicted individuals and has major social costs for their families and the community. Despite increasing interest in the contribution of EA to a broad range of psychological problems, its association with problem gambling has not previously been empirically investigated. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the relationship between EA, thought suppression, and mindfulness among a group of 103 treatment seeking problem gamblers. Of particular interest was the extent to which EA accounted for the relationships between problem gambling and the two theoretically opposing constructs: thought suppression and mindfulness. Results showed EA was predictive of problem gambling. Thought suppression was positively associated and mindfulness negatively associated with problem gambling, and these relationships were mediated by EA. Directions for future research are suggested which include the application of treatments for problem gambling that undermine EA, such as acceptance and mindfulness based therapies.

Effect and Potential Mechanism of Electroacupuncture Add-On Treatment in Patients with Parkinson's Disease

PubMed Central

Wang, Fang; Sun, Li; Zhang, Xiao-zhe; Jia, Jun; Liu, Zhuo; Huang, Xi-yan; Yu, Shu-yang; Zuo, Li-jun; Cao, Chen-jie; Wang, Xiao-min; Zhang, Wei

2015-01-01

Objectives. To explore effectiveness and mechanisms of electroacupuncture (EA) add-on treatment in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients. Methods. Fifty PD patients were randomly assigned to drug plus EA (D + EA) group and drug alone (D) group. Subjects in D + EA group received stimulation in points of bilateral fengfu, fengchi, hegu, and central dazhui. Participants were evaluated by scales for motor and nonmotor symptoms. Levels of neuroinflammatory factors and neurotransmitters in serum were detected. Results. EA add-on treatment remarkably reduced scores of Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) III and its subitems of tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia and conspicuously decreased UPDRS III scores in patients with bradykinesia-rigidity and mixed types and mild severity. Depression and sleep disturbances were eased, which were reflected by decreased scores of Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and elevated noradrenaline level. Effects of EA add-on treatment on motor symptoms and sleep disturbances were superior to drug alone treatment, markedly improving life quality of PD patients. EA add-on treatment decreased nitric oxide level in serum. Conclusions. EA add-on treatment is effective on most motor symptoms and some nonmotor symptoms and is particularly efficacious in PD patients at early stage. Antineuroinflammation may be a mechanism of EA add-on treatment. PMID:26351515

Ellagic acid protects against neuron damage in ischemic stroke through regulating the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax expression.

PubMed

Liu, Qing-Shan; Deng, Ran; Li, Shuran; Li, Xu; Li, Keqin; Kebaituli, Gulibanumu; Li, Xueli; Liu, Rui

2017-08-01

An oxygen-glucose deprivation and reoxygenation model in primary cultured rat cortical neurons was developed for this study to investigate the effects of ellagic acid (EA), a low-molecular-weight polyphenol, on neuron cells and their function, and to evaluate whether EA can be safely utilized by humans as a functional food or therapeutic agent. Administration of EA significantly decreased the volume of cerebrum infarction and the neurological deficit scores of the rats; EA treatment also increased the number of Bcl-2-positive cells and the ratio of Bcl-2-positive to Bax-positive neurons in the semidarkness zone near the brain ischemic focus in the photothrombotic cerebral ischemia model. Treatment of EA resulted in increased neuron viability, cell nuclear integrity, and the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax expression in the primary cultured neuron model; EA treatment also lead to a decrease in the number of apoptotic cells. Our results therefore suggest a specific mechanism for the beneficial effects of EA, providing new insights into how it provides neuroprotection. To the best of our knowledge, these results represent new insights on the mechanisms of the brain cell protective activity of EA. Thus, EA may be used in functional foods or medicines to help treat nerve dysfunction, neurodegenerative disease, and aging.

Ergot Alkaloids in Fattening Chickens (Broilers): Toxic Effects and Carry over Depending on Dietary Fat Proportion and Supplementation with Non-Starch-Polysaccharide (NSP) Hydrolyzing Enzymes.

PubMed

Dänicke, Sven

2017-03-28

Ergot alkaloids (EA) are mycotoxins produced by Claviceps purpurea . EA-toxicity is poorly characterized for fattening chickens. Therefore, a dose-response study was performed to identify the lowest, and no observed adverse effect levels (LOAEL and NOAEL, respectively) based on several endpoints. Non-starch-polysaccharide (NSP) cleaving enzyme addition and dietary fat content were additionally considered as factors potentially influencing EA-toxicity. Feed intake was proven to respond most sensitively to the EA presence in the diets. This sensitivity appeared to be time-dependent. While LOAEL corresponded to a total dietary EA content of 5.7 mg/kg until Day 14 of age, it decreased to 2.03 mg/kg when birds were exposed for a period of 35 days. Consequently, NOAEL corresponded to an EA content of 2.49 mg/kg diet until Day 14 of age, while 1.94 mg/kg diet applied until Day 35 of age. Liver lesions indicating enzyme activities in serum were increased after 14 days of exposure. Dietary fat content and NSP-enzyme supplementation modified EA toxicity in an interactive manner. The EA residues in serum, bile, liver and breast meat were <5 ng/g suggesting a negligible carry over of intact EA.

Ergot Alkaloids in Fattening Chickens (Broilers): Toxic Effects and Carry over Depending on Dietary Fat Proportion and Supplementation with Non-Starch-Polysaccharide (NSP) Hydrolyzing Enzymes

PubMed Central

Dänicke, Sven

2017-01-01

Ergot alkaloids (EA) are mycotoxins produced by Claviceps purpurea. EA-toxicity is poorly characterized for fattening chickens. Therefore, a dose–response study was performed to identify the lowest, and no observed adverse effect levels (LOAEL and NOAEL, respectively) based on several endpoints. Non-starch-polysaccharide (NSP) cleaving enzyme addition and dietary fat content were additionally considered as factors potentially influencing EA-toxicity. Feed intake was proven to respond most sensitively to the EA presence in the diets. This sensitivity appeared to be time-dependent. While LOAEL corresponded to a total dietary EA content of 5.7 mg/kg until Day 14 of age, it decreased to 2.03 mg/kg when birds were exposed for a period of 35 days. Consequently, NOAEL corresponded to an EA content of 2.49 mg/kg diet until Day 14 of age, while 1.94 mg/kg diet applied until Day 35 of age. Liver lesions indicating enzyme activities in serum were increased after 14 days of exposure. Dietary fat content and NSP-enzyme supplementation modified EA toxicity in an interactive manner. The EA residues in serum, bile, liver and breast meat were <5 ng/g suggesting a negligible carry over of intact EA. PMID:28350362

The complex hybrid origins of the root knot nematodes revealed through comparative genomics

PubMed Central

Kumar, Sujai; Koutsovoulos, Georgios; Blaxter, Mark L.

2014-01-01

Root knot nematodes (RKN) can infect most of the world’s agricultural crop species and are among the most important of all plant pathogens. As yet however we have little understanding of their origins or the genomic basis of their extreme polyphagy. The most damaging pathogens reproduce by obligatory mitotic parthenogenesis and it has been suggested that these species originated from interspecific hybridizations between unknown parental taxa. We have sequenced the genome of the diploid meiotic parthenogen Meloidogyne floridensis, and use a comparative genomic approach to test the hypothesis that this species was involved in the hybrid origin of the tropical mitotic parthenogen Meloidogyne incognita. Phylogenomic analysis of gene families from M. floridensis, M. incognita and an outgroup species Meloidogyne hapla was carried out to trace the evolutionary history of these species’ genomes, and we demonstrate that M. floridensis was one of the parental species in the hybrid origins of M. incognita. Analysis of the M. floridensis genome itself revealed many gene loci present in divergent copies, as they are in M. incognita, indicating that it too had a hybrid origin. The triploid M. incognita is shown to be a complex double-hybrid between M. floridensis and a third, unidentified, parent. The agriculturally important RKN have very complex origins involving the mixing of several parental genomes by hybridization and their extreme polyphagy and success in agricultural environments may be related to this hybridization, producing transgressive variation on which natural selection can act. It is now clear that studying RKN variation via individual marker loci may fail due to the species’ convoluted origins, and multi-species population genomics is essential to understand the hybrid diversity and adaptive variation of this important species complex. This comparative genomic analysis provides a compelling example of the importance and complexity of hybridization in generating animal species diversity more generally. PMID:24860695

Effects of ellagic acid pretreatment on renal functions disturbances induced by global cerebral ischemic-reperfusion in rat.

PubMed

Nejad, Khojasteh Hoseiny; Gharib-Naseri, Mohammad Kazem; Sarkaki, Alireza; Dianat, Mahin; Badavi, Mohammad; Farbood, Yaghoub

2017-01-01

Global cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (GCIR) causes disturbances in brain functions as well as other organs such as kidney. Our aim was to evaluate the protective effects of ellagic acid (EA) on certain renal disfunction after GCIR. Adult male Wistar rats (n=32, 250-300 g) were used. GCIR was induced by bilateral vertebral and common carotid arteries occlusion (4-VO). Animal groups were: 1) received DMSO/saline (10%) as solvent of EA, 2) solvent + GCIR, 3) EA + GCIR, and 4) EA. Under anesthesia with ketamine/xylazine, GCIR was induced (20 and 30 min respectively) in related groups. EA (100 mg/kg, dissolved in DMSO/saline (10%) or solvent was administered (1.5 ml/kg) orally for 10 consecutive days to the related groups. EEG was recorded from NTS in GCIR treated groups. Our data showed that: a) EEG in GCIR treated groups was flattened. b) GCIR reduced GFR ( P <0.01) and pretreatment with EA attenuated this reduction. c) BUN was increased by GCIR ( P <0.001) and pretreatment with EA improved the BUN to normal level. d) Serum creatinine concentration was elevated by GCIR but not significantly, however, in EA+GCIR group serum creatinine was reduced ( P <0.05). e) GCIR induced proteinuria ( P <0.05) but, EA was unable to reduced proteinuria. Results indicate that GCIR impairs certain renal functions and EA as an antioxidant can improve these functions. Our results suggest the possible usefulness of ellagic acid in patients with brain stroke.

[The role of endotracheal aspirate culture in the diagnosis of ventilator-associated pneumonia: a meta analysis].

PubMed

Wang, Fei; He, Bei

2013-01-01

To investigate the role of endotracheal aspirate (EA) culture in the diagnosis and antibiotic management in ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). We searched CNKI, Wanfang, PUBMED and EMBASE databases published from January 1990 to December 2011, to find relevant literatures on VAP microbiological diagnostic techniques including EA and bronchoalveolar lavage (BALF). The following key words were used: ventilator associated pneumonia, diagnosis and adult. Meta-analysis was performed and the sensitivity and specificity of EA on VAP diagnosis were calculated. Our literature search identified 1665 potential articles, 8 of which fulfilled our selection criteria including 561 patients with paired cultures. Using BALF quantitative culture as reference standard, the sensitivity and specificity of EA were 72% and 71%. When considering quantitative culture of EA only, the sensitivity and specificity improved to 90% and 65%, while the positive and the negative predictive values were 68% and 89% respectively. However, the sensitivity and specificity of semi-quantitative culture of EA were only 50% and 80%, with a positive predictive value of 77% and a negative predictive value of 58% respectively. EA culture had relatively poor sensitivity and specificity, although quantitative culture of EA only could improve the sensitivity. Initiating therapy on the basis of EA quantitative culture may still result in excessive antibiotic usage. Our data suggested that EA could provide some information for clinical decision but could not replace the role of BALF quantitative culture in VAP diagnosis.

Empathic accuracy and relationship satisfaction: A meta-analytic review.

PubMed

Sened, Haran; Lavidor, Michal; Lazarus, Gal; Bar-Kalifa, Eran; Rafaeli, Eshkol; Ickes, William

2017-09-01

Empathic accuracy (EA; Ickes & Hodges, 2013) is the extent to which people accurately perceive their peers' thoughts, feelings, and other inner mental states. EA has particularly interested researchers in the context of romantic couples. Reviews of the literature suggest a possible link between romantic partners' EA and their relationship satisfaction (Ickes & Simpson, 2001; Sillars & Scott, 1983). To assess the magnitude of this association and examine possible moderators, we performed a meta-analytic review of 21 studies (total N = 2,739 participants) that examined the association between EA and satisfaction. We limited our review to studies measuring EA using the dyadic interaction paradigm (Ickes, Stinson, Bissonnette, & Garcia, 1990). We found a small but significant association between the two (r = .134, p < .05). Subsequent moderation analyses demonstrated that EA for negative emotions (one's accuracy when assessing a partner's negative emotions) was more closely related to satisfaction (r = .171, p < .05) than EA for positive ones (r = .068, p > .1). The association was also stronger in relationships of moderate length, suggesting that EA may be more meaningful when relationships are consolidating but before they become stable. Gender and procedural variations on the dyadic interaction paradigm did not moderate the association, and there was no difference depending on whether the association was between EA and perceivers' or targets' satisfaction (i.e., actor or partner effects). We discuss the implications of these findings and offer recommendations for future EA studies. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Evolutionary optimization methods for accelerator design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Poklonskiy, Alexey A.

Many problems from the fields of accelerator physics and beam theory can be formulated as optimization problems and, as such, solved using optimization methods. Despite growing efficiency of the optimization methods, the adoption of modern optimization techniques in these fields is rather limited. Evolutionary Algorithms (EAs) form a relatively new and actively developed optimization methods family. They possess many attractive features such as: ease of the implementation, modest requirements on the objective function, a good tolerance to noise, robustness, and the ability to perform a global search efficiently. In this work we study the application of EAs to problems from accelerator physics and beam theory. We review the most commonly used methods of unconstrained optimization and describe the GATool, evolutionary algorithm and the software package, used in this work, in detail. Then we use a set of test problems to assess its performance in terms of computational resources, quality of the obtained result, and the tradeoff between them. We justify the choice of GATool as a heuristic method to generate cutoff values for the COSY-GO rigorous global optimization package for the COSY Infinity scientific computing package. We design the model of their mutual interaction and demonstrate that the quality of the result obtained by GATool increases as the information about the search domain is refined, which supports the usefulness of this model. We Giscuss GATool's performance on the problems suffering from static and dynamic noise and study useful strategies of GATool parameter tuning for these and other difficult problems. We review the challenges of constrained optimization with EAs and methods commonly used to overcome them. We describe REPA, a new constrained optimization method based on repairing, in exquisite detail, including the properties of its two repairing techniques: REFIND and REPROPT. We assess REPROPT's performance on the standard constrained optimization test problems for EA with a variety of different configurations and suggest optimal default parameter values based on the results. Then we study the performance of the REPA method on the same set of test problems and compare the obtained results with those of several commonly used constrained optimization methods with EA. Based on the obtained results, particularly on the outstanding performance of REPA on test problem that presents significant difficulty for other reviewed EAs, we conclude that the proposed method is useful and competitive. We discuss REPA parameter tuning for difficult problems and critically review some of the problems from the de-facto standard test problem set for the constrained optimization with EA. In order to demonstrate the practical usefulness of the developed method, we study several problems of accelerator design and demonstrate how they can be solved with EAs. These problems include a simple accelerator design problem (design a quadrupole triplet to be stigmatically imaging, find all possible solutions), a complex real-life accelerator design problem (an optimization of the front end section for the future neutrino factory), and a problem of the normal form defect function optimization which is used to rigorously estimate the stability of the beam dynamics in circular accelerators. The positive results we obtained suggest that the application of EAs to problems from accelerator theory can be very beneficial and has large potential. The developed optimization scenarios and tools can be used to approach similar problems.

Prevalence and descriptive epidemiology of esophageal atresia in the Russian Federation.

PubMed

Demikova, Nataliya S; Vydrych, Yulia V; Podolnaya, Marina A; Lapina, Aleksandra S; Asanov, Aliy Yu

2016-10-01

This study examined the prevalence of esophageal atresia (EA) and the relationship between EA and demographic factors in the Russian Federation. Data were obtained from a population-based congenital malformations registry across 14 years (2000-2013) in 24 regions of the Russian Federation and included cases of EA among live births and stillbirths. The total number of births was 6,478,706. There were 1317 cases of isolated EA, resulting in a rate of 2.03 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.92-2.15) per 10,000 births or 1 case per 4926 births. There were differences in the prevalence of EA among regional registries of the Russian Federation. The prevalence of EA during the study period was stable. 57.3% of all cases were cases of EA with tracheo-esophageal fistula (compared with 42.7% of cases without fistula). The male/female sex ratio was 1.3. The relative risk of EA was higher for live births with birth weight less than 3000 g (relative risk [RR] = 2.58 (95% CI, 2.36-2.82), for older maternal age (RR = 1.47 (95% CI, 1.24-1.75), for males (RR = 1.09; 95% CI, 1.03-1.17), and for the first gravidity (RR = 1.17; 95% CI, 1.09-1.25). In this study, the prevalence of EA across different regions of the Russian Federation was analyzed. The prevalence of EA in the period under study remained stable, and the relative risk of EA was associated with maternal age, birth weight and gravidity. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 106:854-859, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The Moderating Role of Experiential Avoidance in the Relationships Between Internal Distress and Smoking Behavior During a Quit Attempt

PubMed Central

Minami, Haruka; Bloom, Erika Litvin; Reed, Kathleen M. Palm; Hayes, Steven C.; Brown, Richard A.

2015-01-01

Recent smoking cessation studies have shown that decreasing experiential avoidance (EA) (i.e., tendency to reduce or avoid internal distress) improves success, but to date none have examined the moderating effect of EA on the role of specific internal distress in smoking cessation. This study examined whether pre-quit general EA (Acceptance & Action Questionnaire) and smoking-specific EA (Avoidance and Inflexibility Scale) moderated the relations between four measures of post-quit internal distress (depressive symptoms, negative affect, physical withdrawal symptoms, craving), and smoking. Participates: 40 adult smokers who participated in a randomized controlled trial of Distress Tolerance treatment for smokers with a history of early lapse. Results: Multilevel models showed that pre-quit smoking-specific EA, but not general EA, significantly moderated the relationship between all measures of internal distress, except craving, and smoking over 13 weeks post-quit. When examined over 26 weeks, these relations remained unchanged for all, but the moderating effect became trend-level for depressive symptoms. Significant associations between post-quit internal distress and smoking were found only in those with high pre-quit smoking-specific EA. Moreover, pre-quit smoking-specific EA did not predict post-quit levels or changes in internal distress, suggesting that decreasing smoking-specific EA pre-quit may not reduce internal distress, but may instead reduce smoking risk in response to such distress during a quit attempt. Conclusions: Results mainly supported hypothesized relations, but only for smoking-specific EA. Smoking cessation interventions focusing on EA reduction may especially benefit those vulnerable to greater post-quit depressive and withdrawal symptoms, and those who smoke to regulate aversive internal states. PMID:25347023

Electroacupuncture pretreatment induces rapid tolerance to bupivacaine cardiotoxicity in rats.

PubMed

Gao, Jun-Long; Li, Yu-Lan; Wang, Xiu-Mei; Zhao, Qian-Long; Zhang, Hai-Jun; Han, Fang-Fang; Li, Xia-Xia; Zhang, Dong-Hang

2016-12-01

Evidence suggests that electroacupuncture (EA) protects against arrhythmia and myocardial injury induced by myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion. However, to our knowledge, it remains unknown whether EA could alleviate bupivacaine-induced cardiotoxicity. Therefore, we aimed to explore the effect of EA pretreatment on bupivacaine-induced cardiac arrest and outcomes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in rats. 24 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups: EA (n=12), and minimal acupuncture (MA) (n=12). Rats in both groups were needled at bilateral PC6, ST36, and ST40. Needles in the EA group were electrically stimulated for 60 min. ECG and invasive arterial blood pressure measurements were recorded. Two hours after EA or MA, 10 mg/kg bupivacaine was infused intravenously at a rate of 5 mg/kg/min in all rats. Rats suffering cardiac arrest were immediately subjected to CPR. At the end of the experiment, arterial blood samples were taken from surviving rats for blood gas analysis. The time from bupivacaine infusion until 20% prolongation of the QRS and QT interval, and the time to cardiac arrest, were notably increased among the rats pretreated with EA. Moreover, EA pretreatment significantly improved mean arterial pressure and heart rate at all monitored points after bupivacaine infusion. The proportion of animals surviving was higher in the EA group (9/12) than the MA group (3/12) at the end of experiment (p=0.039). Tolerance to bupivacaine-induced cardiotoxicity appeared to be increased following EA pre-treatment. The mechanism of action underlying the effects of EA on bupivacaine-induced cardiotoxicity requires further investigation. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

Nucleus Ambiguus Cholinergic Neurons Activated by Acupuncture: Relation to Enkephalin

PubMed Central

Guo, Zhi-Ling; Li, Min; Longhurst, John C.

2012-01-01

Acupuncture regulates autonomic function. Our previous studies have shown that electroacupuncture (EA) at the Jianshi–Neiguan acupoints (P5–P6, underlying the median nerve) inhibits central sympathetic outflow and attenuates excitatory cardiovascular reflexes, in part, through an opioid mechanism. It is unknown if EA at these acupoints influences the parasympathetic system. Thus, using c-Fos expression, we examined activation of nucleus ambiguus (NAmb) neurons by EA, their relation to cholinergic (preganglionic parasympathetic) neurons and those containing enkephalin. To enhance detection of cell bodies containing enkephalin, colchicine (90–100 μg/kg) was administered into the subarachnoid space of cats 30 hr prior to EA or sham-operated controls for EA. Following bilateral barodenervation and cervical vagotomy, either EA for 30 min at P5–P6 acupoints or control stimulation (needle placement at P5–P6 without stimulation) was applied. While perikarya containing enkephalin were observed in some medullary nuclei (e.g., râphe), only enkephalin-containing neuronal processes were found in the NAmb. Compared to controls (n=4), more c-Fos immunoreactivity, located principally in close proximity to fibers containing enkephalin was noted in the NAmb of EA-treated cats (n=5; P<0.01). Moreover, neurons double-labeled with c-Fos and choline acetyltransferase in the NAmb were identified in EA-treated, but not the control animals. These data demonstrate for the first time that EA activates preganglionic parasympathetic neurons in the NAmb. Because of their close proximity, these EA-activated neurons likely interact with nerve fibers containing enkephalin. These results suggest that EA at the P5–P6 acupoints has the potential to influence parasympathetic outflow and cardiovascular function, likely through an enkephalinergic mechanism. PMID:22306033

Expression of c-Fos in Arcuate Nucleus Induced by Electroacupuncture: relations to neurons containing opioids and glutamate

PubMed Central

Guo, Zhi-Ling; Longhurst, John C.

2007-01-01

Electroacupuncture (EA) at the Neiguan-Jianshi acupoints (P5-P6, overlying the median nerve) attenuates sympathoexcitatory reflexes probably through affecting the opioid system. The arcuate nucleus (ARC) within hypothalamus is an important brain area that produces opioid peptides. Current physiological studies have demonstrated that the predominant response to EA is excitation in the ARC and that excitatory projections from the ARC to the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray during EA at P5-P6 contribute to inhibition of sympathoexcitatory cardiovascular reflexes. These data imply that ARC neurons activated by EA also may contain excitatory neurotransmitters. Thus, the present study evaluated activation of the ARC induced by EA at P5-P6, in relation to the opioid system and glutamate, by detecting c-Fos, an immediate early gene, opioid peptides and vesicular glutamate transporter 3 (VGLUT3). To enhance detection of perikarya containing the opioid peptides, colchicine (90–100 µg/kg) was administered in cats 28–30 hours before EA or the sham-operated control. EA was performed at P5-P6 for 30 min. Compared to controls (n=5), c-Fos positive cells and neurons double-labeled with c-Fos and β-endorphin, enkephalin or VGLUT3 in the ARC were significantly increased in EA-treated cats (n=6; all P<0.05). Moreover, neurons triple-labeled with c-Fos, β-endorphin and VGLUT3 were noted in this region following EA stimulation, but not in controls. Thus, EA at P5-P6 activates neurons in the ARC, some of which contain opioids as well as glutamate or both. The results imply that EA at P5-P6 has the potential to influence ARC neurons containing multiple neuronal substances that subsequently modulate cardiovascular function. PMID:17662967

Electroacupuncture and cognitive behavioural therapy for sub-syndromal depression among undergraduates: a controlled clinical trial.

PubMed

Guo, Tianwei; Guo, Zhuo; Zhang, Wenyue; Ma, Wenhao; Yang, Xinjing; Yang, Xueqin; Hwang, Jiwon; He, Xiaotian; Chen, Xinyi; Ya, Tu

2016-10-01

Individuals with sub-syndromal depression (SSD) are at increased risk of incident depressive disorders; however, the ideal therapeutic approach to SSD remains unknown. To evaluate the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), alone or in combination, on depressive symptoms. Undergraduate students with SSD were recruited and allocated to one of four groups based on their preferences: EA (n=6), CBT (n=10), EA+CBT (n=6), and untreated control (n=11) groups. Six weeks of treatment were provided in the first three groups. Clinical outcomes were measured using the 17-item Hamilton Depression (HAMD-17) rating scale, Center for Epidemiologic Depression (CES-D) scale, WHO Quality of Life-Brief version (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire, and clinical remission rate. All 33 subjects were included in an intent-to-treat analysis. Statistically significant improvements in HAMD-17, CES-D, and WHOQOL-BREF scores and a higher remission rate were found in the EA, CBT, and EA+CBT intervention groups compared with the control group (all p<0.05). No significant differences were found between the three intervention groups. HAMD-17 factor score analysis revealed that EA reduced sleep disturbance scores more than CBT or EA+CBT (p<0.05), and CBT reduced retardation scores more than EA (p<0.01). EA+CBT reduced anxiety/somatisation scores more than EA or CBT (p<0.05) and retardation scores more than EA (p<0.05). Early intervention may alleviate depressive symptoms in SSD. EA and CBT may have differential effects on certain symptoms. Combination therapy targeting both physical and psychological symptoms may represent an ideal strategy for SSD intervention. However, randomised trials with larger sample sizes are needed. ChiCTR-TRC-10000889; Results. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

Effect of 100 Hz electroacupuncture on salivary immunoglobulin A and the autonomic nervous system

PubMed Central

Hideaki, Waki; Tatsuya, Hisajima; Shogo, Miyazaki; Naruto, Yoshida; Hideaki, Tamai; Yoichi, Minakawa; Yoshihiro, Okuma; Kazuo, Uebaba; Hidenori, Takahashi

2015-01-01

Background A previous study has reported that low-frequency (LF) electroacupuncture (EA) influences salivary secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) and the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS is known to control the secretion volume of sIgA; however, the effect of high-frequency (HF) EA on salivary sIgA has not been determined. We investigated whether HF EA affects salivary sIgA levels and the ANS. Method Sixteen healthy subjects were randomly classified into two groups: a control group and an EA group. After a 5 min rest, subjects in the EA group received EA at 100 Hz bilaterally at LI4 and LI11 for 15 min before resting for a further 40 min post-stimulation. Subjects in the control group rested for a total of 60 min. Measurements of the ANS and sIgA levels in both groups were made before, immediately after, 20 min after, and 40 min after rest or 15 min EA treatment. HF and LF components of heart rate variability were analysed as markers of ANS function. LF/HF ratio and HF were taken as indices of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve activity, respectively. Salivary protein concentrations and sIgA levels were determined by Bradford protein assay and ELISA, respectively. Results LF/HF ratio was significantly increased immediately after EA. HF was significantly increased at 20 min after EA and sIgA level was significantly increased at 40 min after EA. In addition, HF and salivary sIgA level were positively correlated with each another. Conclusions HF EA exerted sequential positive effects on sympathetic nerve activity, parasympathetic nerve activity, and salivary sIgA level (immediately and after 20 and 40 min, respectively). HF EA may increase salivary sIgA levels by influencing parasympathetic nerve activity. PMID:26449884

Association between Long-Term Exposure to Particulate Matter Air Pollution and Mortality in a South Korean National Cohort: Comparison across Different Exposure Assessment Approaches

PubMed Central

Kim, Sun-Young; Kim, Ho

2017-01-01

Increasing numbers of cohort studies have reported that long-term exposure to ambient particulate matter is associated with mortality. However, there has been little evidence from Asian countries. We aimed to explore the association between long-term exposure to particulate matter with a diameter ≤10 µm (PM10) and mortality in South Korea, using a nationwide population-based cohort and an improved exposure assessment (EA) incorporating time-varying concentrations and residential addresses (EA1). We also compared the association across different EA approaches. We used information from 275,337 people who underwent health screening from 2002 to 2006 and who had follow-up data for 12 years in the National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort. Individual exposures were computed as 5-year averages using predicted residential district-specific annual-average PM10 concentrations for 2002–2006. We estimated hazard ratios (HRs) of non-accidental and five cause-specific mortalities per 10 µg/m3 increase in PM10 using the Cox proportional hazards model. Then, we compared the association of EA1 with three other approaches based on time-varying concentrations and/or addresses: predictions in each year and addresses at baseline (EA2); predictions at baseline and addresses in each year (EA3); and predictions and addresses at baseline (EA4). We found a marginal association between long-term PM10 and non-accidental mortality. The HRs of five cause-specific mortalities were mostly higher than that of non-accidental mortality, but statistically insignificant. In the comparison between EA approaches, the HRs of EA1 were similar to those of EA2 but higher than EA3 and EA4. Our findings confirmed the association between long-term exposure to PM10 and mortality based on a population-representative cohort in South Korea, and suggested the importance of assessing individual exposure incorporating air pollution changes over time. PMID:28946613

Alterations in hyolaryngeal elevation after esophageal anastomosis: A possible mechanism for airway aspiration.

PubMed

Demir, Numan; Arslan, Selen Serel; Yalcin, Sule; Karaduman, Ayşe; Tanyel, Feridun Cahit; Soyer, Tutku

2017-10-01

A prospective study was performed to evaluate anatomical alterations and hyolaryngeal elevation (HE) by videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) in patients with esophageal atresia-tracheoesophageal fistula (EA-TEF). Patients operated for EA-TEF were evaluated for age, sex, type of atresia and time to esophageal anastomosis. All patients were evaluated by videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS). Penetration-Aspiration scale (PAS≥7 is considered as aspiration), distance between upper esophageal sphincter and 2nd cervical vertebrae (UES-C2) and hyolaryngeal elevation (HE) were evaluated by the same deglutitionist who was blind to the study. The results of EA-TEF patients were compared with healthy children. Eighteen patients with EA-TEF and 10 healthy controls were included. The median age was 16months (12-36m) in EA-TEF and 18months (13-51m) in controls. Male-to-female ratio was 5:4 and 4:1 respectively. 12 of cases were isolated-EA, 1 of them was EA-proximal TEF and 5 of the cases were EA-distal TEF. Half of the cases had primary EAN and others underwent delayed esophageal repair. Early oral feeding was also started in 9 patients (50%) whereas others had delayed oral feeding. VFSS showed aspiration in 27.7 (n=5) of cases (PAS≥7) in EA group. The median distance between UES-C2 was 3.04cm (min: 2.17-max: 3.94) in EA and 4.17cm (min: 3.45-max: 6.24cm) in controls. Median distance for HE was 0.37cm (min: 0.18-max: 1.1cm) in EA and 1.15 (min: 0.61-max: 1.06cm) in controls. The distance between UES-C2 was significantly lower than controls (p<0.05) and HE was decreased in EA-TEF without any statistical significance. Children with EA-TEF had shortened distance between airway and upper esophagus. HE may be inefficient to protect airway during deglutition. Anatomical alterations after EAN suggest that airway problems may be related with decreased HE in children with EATEF. Level II (Development of diagnostic criteria in a consecutive series of patients and a universally applied "gold standard"). Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Therapeutic efficacy of improved α-fetoprotein promoter-mediated tBid delivered by folate-PEI600-cyclodextrin nanopolymer vector in hepatocellular carcinoma

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

Hu, Bao-guang; Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, Shandong; Liu, Li-ping

SNPs in human AFP promoter are associated with serum AFP levels in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), suggesting that AFP promoter variants may generate better transcriptional activities while retaining high specificity to AFP-producing cells. We sequenced human AFP promoters, cloned 15 different genotype promoters and tested their reporter activities in AFP-producing and non-producing cells. Among various AFP variant fragments tested, EA4D exhibited the highest reporter activity and thus was selected for the further study. EA4D was fused with tBid and coupled with nano-particle vector (H1) to form pGL3-EA4D-tBid/H1. pGL3-EA4D-tBid/H1 could express a high level of tBid while retain the specificity to AFP-producingmore » cells. In a HCC tumor model, application of pGL3-EA4D-tBid/H1 significantly inhibited the growth of AFP-producing-implanted tumors with minimal side-effects, but had no effect on non-AFP-producing tumors. Furthermore, pGL3-EA4D-tBid/H1 could significantly sensitize HCC cells to sorafenib, an approved anti-HCC agent. Collectively, pGL3-EA4D-tBid/H1, a construct with the AFP promoter EA4D and the novel H1 delivery system, can specifically target and effectively suppress the AFP-producing HCC. This new therapeutic tool shows little toxicity in vitro and in vivo and it should thus be safe for further clinical tests. - Highlights: • The nano-particle vector H1 has advantages in mediating gene therapy construct pGL3-EA4D-tBid for HCC treatment. • pGL3-EA4D-tBid/H1, a construct with the AFP promoter EA4D, can specifically target the AFP-producing HCC. • pGL3-EA4D-tBid/H1effectively suppresses the proliferation and growth of AFP-producing HCC. • This novel pGL3-EA4D-tBid/H1 therapeutic tool shows little toxicity in vitro and in vivo.« less

Anti-inflammatory effects and mechanisms of vagal nerve stimulation combined with electroacupuncture in a rodent model of TNBS-induced colitis.

PubMed

Jin, Haifeng; Guo, Jie; Liu, Jiemin; Lyu, Bin; Foreman, Robert D; Yin, Jieyun; Shi, Zhaohong; Chen, Jiande D Z

2017-09-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects and mechanisms of vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) and additive effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on colonic inflammation in a rodent model of IBD. Chronic inflammation in rats was induced by intrarectal TNBS (2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid). The rats were then treated with sham ES (electrical stimulation), VNS, or VNS + EA for 3 wk. Inflammatory responses were assessed by disease activity index (DAI), macroscopic scores and histological scores of colonic tissues, plasma levels of TNFα, IL-1β, and IL-6, and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity of colonic tissues. The autonomic function was assessed by the spectral analysis of heart rate variability (HRV) derived from the electrocardiogram. It was found that 1 ) the area under curve (AUC) of DAI was substantially decreased with VNS + EA and VNS, with VNS + EA being more effective than VNS ( P < 0.001); 2 ) the macroscopic score was 6.43 ± 0.61 in the sham ES group and reduced to 1.86 ± 0.26 with VNS ( P < 0.001) and 1.29 ± 0.18 with VNS + EA ( P < 0.001); 3 ) the histological score was 4.05 ± 0.58 in the sham ES group and reduced to 1.93 ± 0.37 with VNS ( P < 0.001) and 1.36 ± 0.20 with VNS + EA ( P < 0.001); 4 ) the plasma levels of TNFα, IL-1β, IL-6, and MPO were all significantly decreased with VNS and VNS + EA compared with the sham ES group; and 5 ) autonomically, both VNS + EA and VNS substantially increased vagal activity and decreased sympathetic activity compared with sham EA ( P < 0.001, P < 0.001, respectively). In conclusion, chronic VNS improves inflammation in TNBS-treated rats by inhibiting proinflammatory cytokines via the autonomic mechanism. Addition of noninvasive EA to VNS may enhance the anti-inflammatory effect of VNS. NEW & NOTEWORTHY This is the first study to address and compare the effects of vagal nerve stimulation (VNS), electrical acupuncture (EA) and VNS + EA on TNBS (2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid)-induced colitis in rats. The proposed chronic VNS + EA, VNS, and EA were shown to decrease DAI and ameliorate macroscopic and microscopic damages in rats with TNBS-induced colitis via the autonomic pathway. The addition of EA to VNS provided a significant effect on the behavioral assessment of inflammation (DAI, CMDI, and histological score) but not on cytokines or mechanistic measurements, suggesting an overall systemic effect of EA.View this article's corresponding video summary at https://youtu.be/-rEz6HMkErM.

pH-sensitive polymer-liposome-based antigen delivery systems potentiated with interferon-γ gene lipoplex for efficient cancer immunotherapy.

PubMed

Yuba, Eiji; Kanda, Yuhei; Yoshizaki, Yuta; Teranishi, Ryoma; Harada, Atsushi; Sugiura, Kikuya; Izawa, Takeshi; Yamate, Jyoji; Sakaguchi, Naoki; Koiwai, Kazunori; Kono, Kenji

2015-10-01

Potentiation of pH-sensitive liposome-based antigen carriers with IFN-γ gene lipoplexes was attempted to achieve efficient induction of tumor-specific immunity. 3-Methylglutarylated poly(glycidol) (MGluPG)-modified liposomes and cationic liposomes were used, respectively, for the delivery of antigenic protein ovalbumin (OVA) and IFN-γ-encoding plasmid DNA (pDNA). The MGluPG-modified liposomes and the cationic liposome-pDNA complexes (lipoplexes) formed hybrid complexes via electrostatic interactions after their mixing in aqueous solutions. The hybrid complexes co-delivered OVA and IFN-γ-encoding pDNA into DC2.4 cells, a murine dendritic cell line, as was the case of MGluPG-modified liposomes for OVA or the lipoplexes for pDNA. Both the lipoplexes and the hybrid complexes transfected DC2.4 cells and induced IFN-γ protein production, but transfection activities of the hybrid complexes were lower than those of the parent lipoplexes. Subcutaneous administration of hybrid complexes to mice bearing E.G7-OVA tumor reduced tumor volumes, which might result from the induction of OVA-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). However, the hybrid complex-induced antitumor effect was the same level of the MGluPG-modified liposome-mediated antitumor immunity. In contrast, an extremely strong antitumor immune response was derived when these liposomes and lipoplexes without complexation were injected subcutaneously at the same site of tumor-bearing mice. Immunohistochemical analysis of tumor sections revealed that immunization through the liposome-lipoplex combination promoted the infiltration of CTLs to tumors at an early stage of treatment compared with liposomes, resulting in strong therapeutic effects. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

47 CFR 90.685 - Authorization, construction and implementation of EA licenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... into operation a sufficient number of base stations to provide coverage to at least one-third of the population of its EA-based service area. Further, each EA licensee must provide coverage to at least two-thirds of the population of the EA-based service area within five years of the grant of their initial...

47 CFR 90.685 - Authorization, construction and implementation of EA licenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... into operation a sufficient number of base stations to provide coverage to at least one-third of the population of its EA-based service area. Further, each EA licensee must provide coverage to at least two-thirds of the population of the EA-based service area within five years of the grant of their initial...

47 CFR 90.685 - Authorization, construction and implementation of EA licenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... into operation a sufficient number of base stations to provide coverage to at least one-third of the population of its EA-based service area. Further, each EA licensee must provide coverage to at least two-thirds of the population of the EA-based service area within five years of the grant of their initial...

47 CFR 90.685 - Authorization, construction and implementation of EA licenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... into operation a sufficient number of base stations to provide coverage to at least one-third of the population of its EA-based service area. Further, each EA licensee must provide coverage to at least two-thirds of the population of the EA-based service area within five years of the grant of their initial...

47 CFR 90.685 - Authorization, construction and implementation of EA licenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... into operation a sufficient number of base stations to provide coverage to at least one-third of the population of its EA-based service area. Further, each EA licensee must provide coverage to at least two-thirds of the population of the EA-based service area within five years of the grant of their initial...

78 FR 54635 - Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for EA-18G Growler Airfield...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-09-05

... the potential environmental effects associated with the introduction of two additional EA-18G Growler... CONTACT: EA-18G EIS Project Manager (Code EV21/ SS); Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC... request should be submitted to: EA-18G EIS Project Manager (Code EV21/SS); Naval Facilities Engineering...

47 CFR 11.11 - The Emergency Alert System (EAS).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... through the use of a single set of EAS equipment at the hub station (or common studio or control point... as low earth orbiting satellites, that wish to participate in the EAS may contact the FCC's Public... 47 Telecommunication 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false The Emergency Alert System (EAS). 11.11 Section...

47 CFR 11.11 - The Emergency Alert System (EAS).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... through the use of a single set of EAS equipment at the hub station (or common studio or control point... as low earth orbiting satellites, that wish to participate in the EAS may contact the FCC's Public... 47 Telecommunication 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false The Emergency Alert System (EAS). 11.11 Section...

47 CFR 11.55 - EAS operation during a State or Local Area emergency.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... the State or Local Area EAS must discontinue normal programming and follow the procedures in the State...); and DBS providers must comply with § 11.54(b)(7). EAS Participants providing foreign language programming should comply with § 11.54(b)(8). (5) Upon completion of the State or Local Area EAS transmission...

47 CFR 11.61 - Tests of EAS procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... receipt, as specified in § 11.35(a) and 11.54(a)(3). (iii) The EAS weekly test is not required during the... message when transmitting the required weekly test. (3) National tests. (i) All EAS Participants shall... Management Agency (FEMA). Such tests will consist of the delivery by FEMA to PEP/NP stations of a coded EAS...

47 CFR 11.61 - Tests of EAS procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... receipt, as specified in § 11.35(a) and 11.54(a)(3). (iii) The EAS weekly test is not required during the... message when transmitting the required weekly test. (3) National tests. (i) All EAS Participants shall... Management Agency (FEMA). Such tests will consist of the delivery by FEMA to PEP/NP stations of a coded EAS...

47 CFR 11.61 - Tests of EAS procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... receipt, as specified in § 11.35(a) and 11.54(a)(3). (iii) The EAS weekly test is not required during the... message when transmitting the required weekly test. (3) National tests. (i) All EAS Participants shall... Management Agency (FEMA). Such tests will consist of the delivery by FEMA to PEP/NP stations of a coded EAS...

7 CFR 1794.24 - Proposals normally requiring an EA with scoping.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 12 2014-01-01 2013-01-01 true Proposals normally requiring an EA with scoping. 1794... Classification of Proposals § 1794.24 Proposals normally requiring an EA with scoping. (a) General. Applications... development of the EA. These types of actions are subject to the requirements of §§ 1794.50 through 1794.54...

7 CFR 1794.24 - Proposals normally requiring an EA with scoping.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 12 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Proposals normally requiring an EA with scoping. 1794... Classification of Proposals § 1794.24 Proposals normally requiring an EA with scoping. (a) General. Applications... development of the EA. These types of actions are subject to the requirements of §§ 1794.50 through 1794.54...

7 CFR 1794.24 - Proposals normally requiring an EA with scoping.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 12 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Proposals normally requiring an EA with scoping. 1794... Classification of Proposals § 1794.24 Proposals normally requiring an EA with scoping. (a) General. Applications... development of the EA. These types of actions are subject to the requirements of §§ 1794.50 through 1794.54...

7 CFR 1794.24 - Proposals normally requiring an EA with scoping.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 12 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Proposals normally requiring an EA with scoping. 1794... Classification of Proposals § 1794.24 Proposals normally requiring an EA with scoping. (a) General. Applications... development of the EA. These types of actions are subject to the requirements of §§ 1794.50 through 1794.54...

7 CFR 1794.24 - Proposals normally requiring an EA with scoping.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 12 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Proposals normally requiring an EA with scoping. 1794... Classification of Proposals § 1794.24 Proposals normally requiring an EA with scoping. (a) General. Applications... development of the EA. These types of actions are subject to the requirements of §§ 1794.50 through 1794.54...

75 FR 18113 - Magnuson-Stevens Act Provisions; Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Northeast...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-04-09

... final operations plan, contract, and environmental assessment (EA), and the Final Regulatory Flexibility... fish in a given FY, it must submit an operations plan, sector contract, and EA to NMFS by September 1... National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), an EA was prepared for each operations plan. All sector EAs are...

77 FR 20374 - Application To Export Electric Energy; WSPP Inc.

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-04

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY [OE Docket No. EA-98-M] Application To Export Electric Energy; WSPP Inc... authorized 42 members of the WSPP to export electric energy to Canada (Order No. EA-98-C). Over time, the... several subsequent proceedings in the EA-98 docket. Current Order No. EA-98-L was issued on May 6, 2009...

The synthesis of ethacrynic acid thiazole derivatives as glutathione S-transferase pi inhibitors.

PubMed

Li, Ting; Liu, Guyue; Li, Hongcai; Yang, Xinmei; Jing, Yongkui; Zhao, Guisen

2012-04-01

Glutathione S-transferase pi (GSTpi) is a phase II enzyme which protects cells from death and detoxifies chemotherapeutic agents in cancer cells. Ethacrynic acid (EA) is a weak GSTpi inhibitor. Structure modifications were done to improve the ability of EA to inhibit GSTpi activity. Eighteen EA thiazole derivatives were designed and synthesized. Compounds 9a, 9b and 9c with a replacement of carboxyl group of EA by a heterocyclic thiazole exhibited improvement over EA to inhibit GSTpi activity. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Best Practices for the Identification of Elder Abuse and Neglect in Home Health.

PubMed

Pickering, Carolyn E Z; Ridenour, Kimberly; Salaysay, Zachary

2016-04-01

Elder abuse and neglect (EA/N) affects over 1 million older adults each year, and disproportionately affects persons with dementia and older women. Home healthcare professionals are in an advantageous position to assess for, identify, and report EA/N. Lack of knowledge on EA/N risk factors, assessment tools, and mandatory reporting guidelines often prevent professionals from identifying and reporting EA/N. This article provides practical guidance on EA/N risk factors, assessment tools, and reporting responsibilities that can easily be implemented in practice.

The anti-oncogenic influence of ellagic acid on colon cancer cells in leptin-enriched microenvironment.

PubMed

Yousef, Amany I; El-Masry, Omar S; Yassin, Eman H

2016-10-01

Ellagic acid (EA) has been proposed as a promising candidate for therapeutic use in colon cancer. Investigation of the effectiveness of EA in a leptin-enriched model might have been given a little interest. Here in, we investigated the anti-tumor effect of EA in the presence of leptin to reflect on therapeutic use of EA in obesity-linked colon cancer. Proven effective in leptin-enriched microenvironment, EA inhibited cell proliferation of HCT-116 and CaCo-2 cell lines, modulated cell cycle, translocated Bax to the mitochondrial fraction of cells, activated caspase-8, and reduced PCNA expression. The current study findings cast a beam of light on the potential therapeutic use of EA in obesity-related colon carcinogenesis.

A shift in nuclear state as the result of natural interspecific hybridization between two North American taxa of the basidiomycete complex Heterobasidion

Treesearch

Matteo Garbelotto; Paolo Gonthier; Rachel Linzer; Giovanni Nicolotti; William Otrosina

2004-01-01

A natural first generation hybrid fungus shows interspecific heterozygosity. The nuclear condition of a rare natural hybrid between two taxa of the Heterobasidion complex is investigated. Heterobasidion species are known to be either homokaryotic (haploid) or heterokaryotic (n + n), but heterokaryons are made up of both...

Genetic interactions underlying hybrid male sterility in the Drosophila bipectinata species complex.

PubMed

Mishra, Paras Kumar; Singh, Bashisth Narayan

2006-06-01

Understanding genetic mechanisms underlying hybrid male sterility is one of the most challenging problems in evolutionary biology especially speciation. By using the interspecific hybridization method roles of Y chromosome, Major Hybrid Sterility (MHS) genes and cytoplasm in sterility of hybrid males have been investigated in a promising group, the Drosophila bipectinata species complex that consists of four closely related species: D. pseudoananassae, D. bipectinata, D. parabipectinata and D. malerkotliana. The interspecific introgression analyses show that neither cytoplasm nor MHS genes are involved but X-Y interactions may be playing major role in hybrid male sterility between D. pseudoananassae and the other three species. The results of interspecific introgression analyses also show considerable decrease in the number of males in the backcross offspring and all males have atrophied testes. There is a significant positive correlation between sex - ratio distortion and severity of sterility in backcross males. These findings provide evidence that D. pseudoananassae is remotely related with other three species of the D. bipectinata species complex.

Signature-tagged mutagenesis in a chicken infection model leads to the identification of a novel avian pathogenic Escherichia coli fimbrial adhesin.

PubMed

Antão, Esther-Maria; Ewers, Christa; Gürlebeck, Doreen; Preisinger, Rudolf; Homeier, Timo; Li, Ganwu; Wieler, Lothar H

2009-11-12

The extraintestinal pathogen, avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC), known to cause systemic infections in chickens, is responsible for large economic losses in the poultry industry worldwide. In order to identify genes involved in the early essential stages of pathogenesis, namely adhesion and colonization, Signature-tagged mutagenesis (STM) was applied to a previously established lung colonization model of infection by generating and screening a total of 1,800 mutants of an APEC strain IMT5155 (O2:K1:H5; Sequence type complex 95). The study led to the identification of new genes of interest, including two adhesins, one of which coded for a novel APEC fimbrial adhesin (Yqi) not described for its role in APEC pathogenesis to date. Its gene product has been temporarily designated ExPEC Adhesin I (EA/I) until the adhesin-specific receptor is identified. Deletion of the ExPEC adhesin I gene resulted in reduced colonization ability by APEC strain IMT5155 both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, complementation of the adhesin gene restored its ability to colonize epithelial cells in vitro. The ExPEC adhesin I protein was successfully expressed in vitro. Electron microscopy of an afimbriate strain E. coli AAEC189 over-expressed with the putative EA/I gene cluster revealed short fimbrial-like appendages protruding out of the bacterial outer membrane. We observed that this adhesin coding gene yqi is prevalent among extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) isolates, including APEC (54.4%), uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) (65.9%) and newborn meningitic E. coli (NMEC) (60.0%), and absent in all of the 153 intestinal pathogenic E. coli strains tested, thereby validating the designation of the adhesin as ExPEC Adhesin I. In addition, prevalence of EA/I was most frequently associated with the B2 group of the EcoR classification and ST95 complex of the multi locus sequence typing (MLST) scheme, with evidence of a positive selection within this highly pathogenic complex. This is the first report of the newly identified and functionally characterized ExPEC adhesin I and its significant role during APEC infection in chickens.

Hybrid estimation of complex systems.

PubMed

Hofbaur, Michael W; Williams, Brian C

2004-10-01

Modern automated systems evolve both continuously and discretely, and hence require estimation techniques that go well beyond the capability of a typical Kalman Filter. Multiple model (MM) estimation schemes track these system evolutions by applying a bank of filters, one for each discrete system mode. Modern systems, however, are often composed of many interconnected components that exhibit rich behaviors, due to complex, system-wide interactions. Modeling these systems leads to complex stochastic hybrid models that capture the large number of operational and failure modes. This large number of modes makes a typical MM estimation approach infeasible for online estimation. This paper analyzes the shortcomings of MM estimation, and then introduces an alternative hybrid estimation scheme that can efficiently estimate complex systems with large number of modes. It utilizes search techniques from the toolkit of model-based reasoning in order to focus the estimation on the set of most likely modes, without missing symptoms that might be hidden amongst the system noise. In addition, we present a novel approach to hybrid estimation in the presence of unknown behavioral modes. This leads to an overall hybrid estimation scheme for complex systems that robustly copes with unforeseen situations in a degraded, but fail-safe manner.

Effect of external anal sphincter contraction on the ischiocavernosus muscle and its suggested role in the sexual act.

PubMed

Shafik, Ahmed; Shafik, Ismail; El-Sibai, Olfat; Shafik, Ali A

2006-01-01

Whereas the bulbocavernosus muscle shares its contractile activity with the external anal sphincter (EAS), the response of the ischiocavernosus muscle (ICM) to EAS contraction could not be traced in the literature. We investigated the hypothesis that the ICM contracts reflexly upon EAS contraction. The response of the ICM to EAS squeeze and stimulation was recorded in 21 healthy volunteers (13 men, 8 women, age 36.8 +/- 10.7 [SD] years). An electromyographic (EMG) needle (stimulating) electrode was introduced into the EAS and another (recording) one was inserted into the ICM. The test was repeated after individual anesthetization of the EAS and ICM and after muscle infiltration with normal saline instead of lidocaine. EAS electrostimulation (10 stimuli, 200 micros duration, 0.2 Hz frequency, 0-100 mA intensity) produced an increase of ICM EMG activity to a mean of 267.8 +/- 42.7 microV, whereas anal squeeze effected an increase to a mean of 224.5 +/- 45.3 microV. The ICM did not respond to stimulation of the EAS after individual anesthetization of the ICM and EAS, but it did after saline infiltration. The results were reproducible. ICM contracted upon EAS contraction. This effect seems to be mediated through a reflex that we call "anocavernosal excitatory reflex." The ICM lever action is suggested to share in the erectile mechanism by elevating the penile shaft to above the horizontal level. The reflex may prove of diagnostic significance in sexual function disorders, a point that needs further study.

Activation energy of extracellular enzymes in soils from different biomes.

PubMed

Steinweg, J Megan; Jagadamma, Sindhu; Frerichs, Joshua; Mayes, Melanie A

2013-01-01

Enzyme dynamics are being incorporated into soil carbon cycling models and accurate representation of enzyme kinetics is an important step in predicting belowground nutrient dynamics. A scarce number of studies have measured activation energy (Ea) in soils and fewer studies have measured Ea in arctic and tropical soils, or in subsurface soils. We determined the Ea for four typical lignocellulose degrading enzymes in the A and B horizons of seven soils covering six different soil orders. We also elucidated which soil properties predicted any measurable differences in Ea. β-glucosidase, cellobiohydrolase, phenol oxidase and peroxidase activities were measured at five temperatures, 4, 21, 30, 40, and 60°C. Ea was calculated using the Arrhenius equation. β-glucosidase and cellobiohydrolase Ea values for both A and B horizons in this study were similar to previously reported values, however we could not make a direct comparison for B horizon soils because of the lack of data. There was no consistent relationship between hydrolase enzyme Ea and the environmental variables we measured. Phenol oxidase was the only enzyme that had a consistent positive relationship between Ea and pH in both horizons. The Ea in the arctic and subarctic zones for peroxidase was lower than the hydrolases and phenol oxidase values, indicating peroxidase may be a rate limited enzyme in environments under warming conditions. By including these six soil types we have increased the number of soil oxidative enzyme Ea values reported in the literature by 50%. This study is a step towards better quantifying enzyme kinetics in different climate zones.

Years of Life and Productivity Loss from Potentially Avoidable Colorectal Cancer Deaths in U.S. Counties with Lower Educational Attainment (2008–2012)

PubMed Central

Weir, Hannah K.; Li, Chunyu; Henley, S. Jane; Joseph, Djenaba

2018-01-01

Background Educational attainment (EA) is inversely associated with colorectal cancer risk. Colorectal cancer screening can save lives if precancerous polyps or early cancers are found and successfully treated. This study aims to estimate the potential productivity loss (PPL) and associated avoidable colorectal cancer–related deaths among screen-eligible adults residing in lower EA counties in the United States. Methods Mortality and population data were used to examine colorectal cancer deaths (2008–2012) among adults aged 50 to 74 years in lower EA counties, and to estimate the expected number of deaths using the mortality experience from high EA counties. Excess deaths (observed–expected) were used to estimate potential years life lost, and the human capital method was used to estimate PPL in 2012 U.S. dollars. Results County-level colorectal cancer death rates were inversely associated with county-level EA. Of the 100,857 colorectal cancer deaths in lower EA counties, we estimated that more than 21,000 (1 in 5) was potentially avoidable and resulted in nearly $2 billion annual productivity loss. Conclusions County-level EA disparities contribute to a large number of potentially avoidable colorectal cancer–related deaths. Increased prevention and improved screening potentially could decrease deaths and help reduce the associated economic burden in lower EA communities. Increased screening could further reduce deaths in all EA groups. Impact These results estimate the large economic impact of potentially avoidable colorectal cancer–related deaths in economically disadvantaged communities, as measured by lower EA. PMID:28003180

Protective effects of ellagic acid and ozone on rat ovaries with an ischemia/reperfusion injury.

PubMed

Sayar, Ilyas; Bicer, Senol; Gursul, Cebrail; Gürbüzel, Mehmet; Peker, Kemal; Işik, Arda

2016-01-01

This study investigated the effects of the antioxidant agents, ozone (O) and ellagic acid (EA), on ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injuries developed from an ovarian torsion-detorsion model. Arteries in the left ovaries of rats were clamped for two hours to achieve torsion, and then the clamps were removed for a two-hour detorsion period. Thirty-five female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups: control: administered only with anesthesia, rats were not subjected to torsion-detorsion; I/R: subjected to torsion and subsequent detorsion, without administering any treatment agent; and I/R + EA, I/R + O and I/R + O + EA: subjected to torsion and detorsion processes and administered with EA, O or EA + O at the 75th minute of torsion. The rats were then sacrificed under general anesthesia and the ovarian tissues were excised. The tissues were homogenized and levels of glutathione reductase, catalase, superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde (MDA) were analyzed. Tissue damage was evaluated in terms of histopathological parameters, such as hemorrhage, congestion, edema and inflammation. Antioxidant enzyme activity and MDA levels in the ovary tissue increased in the I/R group and decreased in the O, EA and O + EA groups (P < 0.05). Histopathological examination revealed that tissue damage in the O, EA and O + EA groups decreased in comparison with the I/R group (P < 0.05). These biochemical and histopathological findings suggest that EA and O are effective against ovarian I/R injury. © 2015 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

100-Hz Electroacupuncture but not 2-Hz Electroacupuncture is Preemptive Against Postincision Pain in Rats.

PubMed

Silva, Marcelo Lourenço; Silva, Josie Resende Torres; Prado, Wiliam Alves

2016-08-01

Preemptive analgesia involves introducing an analgesic before noxious stimulation. Electroacupuncture (EA) activates descending mechanisms that modulate nociceptive inputs into the spinal dorsal horn. This study evaluated whether preoperative EA is more effective than postoperative EA in reducing incision pain in rats. The nociceptive threshold to mechanical stimulation was utilized to examine the effects of an intraperitoneal injection of saline (0.1 mL/kg) or naloxone (1 mg/kg) on antinociception induced by a 20-minute period of 2-Hz or 100-Hz EA applied to the Zusanli (ST36) and Sanyinjiao (SP6) acupoints before surgical incision, or 10 minutes after or 100 minutes after surgical incision of the hind paw. The extent of mechanical hyperalgesia after the incision was significantly attenuated by the application of 100-Hz EA preoperatively, but not by its application at 10 minutes or 100 minutes postoperatively. By contrast, 2-Hz EA was effective against postoperative hyperalgesia when applied 10 minutes or 100 minutes after surgery but not when it was applied preoperatively. Only the effect of 2-Hz EA applied 10 minutes after surgery was sensitive to naloxone. The present study showed for the first time that 100-Hz EA, but not 2-Hz EA, exerts a nonopioidergic preemptive effect against postincision pain in rats. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Epilobium angustifolium extract demonstrates multiple effects on dermal fibroblasts in vitro and skin photo-protection in vivo.

PubMed

Ruszová, Ema; Cheel, José; Pávek, Stanislav; Moravcová, Martina; Hermannová, Martina; Matějková, Ilona; Spilková, Jiřina; Velebný, Vladimír; Kubala, Lukáš

2013-09-01

Stress-induced fibroblast senescence is thought to contribute to skin aging. Ultraviolet light (UV) radiation is the most potent environmental risk factor in these processes. An Epilobium angustifolium (EA) extract was evaluated for its capacity to reverse the senescent response of normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) in vitro and to exhibit skin photo-protection in vivo. The HPLC-UV-MS analysis of the EA preparation identified three major polyphenol groups: tannins (oenothein B), phenolic acids (gallic and chlorogenic acids) and flavonoids. EA extract increased the cell viability of senescent NHDF induced by serum deprivation. It diminished connective tissue growth factor and fibronectin gene expressions in senescent NHDF. Down-regulation of the UV-induced release of both matrix metalloproteinase-1 and -3 and the tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases-1 and -2, and also down-regulation of the gene expression of hyaluronidase 2 were observed in repeatedly UV-irradiated NHDF after EA extract treatment. Interestingly, EA extract diminished the down-regulation of sirtuin 1 dampened by UV-irradiation. The application of EA extract using a sub-irritating dose protected skin against UV-induced erythema formation in vivo. In summary, EA extract diminished stress-induced effects on NHDF, particularly on connective tissue growth factor, fibronectin and matrix metalloproteinases. These results collectively suggest that EA extract may possess anti-aging properties and that the EA polyphenols might account for these benefits.

Evaluation of epidural analgesia for open major liver resection surgery from a US inpatient sample.

PubMed

Rosero, Eric B; Cheng, Gloria S; Khatri, Kinnari P; Joshi, Girish P

2014-10-01

The aim of this study was to assess the nationwide use of epidural analgesia (EA) and the incidence of postoperative complications in patients undergoing major liver resections (MLR) with and without EA in the United States. The 2001 to 2010 Nationwide Inpatient Sample was queried to identify adult patients undergoing MLR. A 1:1 matched cohort of patients having MLR with and without EA was assembled using propensity-score matching techniques. Differences in the rate of postoperative complications were compared between the matched groups. We identified 68,028 MLR. Overall, 5.9% of patients in the database had procedural codes for postoperative EA. A matched cohort of 802 patients per group was derived from the propensity-matching algorithm. Although use of EA was associated with more blood transfusions (relative risk, 1.36; 95% confidence interval, 1.12-1.65; P = 0.001) and longer hospital stay (median [interquartile range], 6 [5-8] vs 6 [4-8] days), the use of coagulation factors and the incidence of postoperative hemorrhage/hematomas or other postoperative complications were not higher in patients receiving EA. In conclusion, the use of EA for MLR is low, and EA does not seem to influence the incidence of postoperative complications. EA, however, was associated with an increased use of blood transfusions and a longer hospital stay.

Evaluation of epidural analgesia for open major liver resection surgery from a US inpatient sample

PubMed Central

Cheng, Gloria S.; Khatri, Kinnari P.; Joshi, Girish P.

2014-01-01

The aim of this study was to assess the nationwide use of epidural analgesia (EA) and the incidence of postoperative complications in patients undergoing major liver resections (MLR) with and without EA in the United States. The 2001 to 2010 Nationwide Inpatient Sample was queried to identify adult patients undergoing MLR. A 1:1 matched cohort of patients having MLR with and without EA was assembled using propensity-score matching techniques. Differences in the rate of postoperative complications were compared between the matched groups. We identified 68,028 MLR. Overall, 5.9% of patients in the database had procedural codes for postoperative EA. A matched cohort of 802 patients per group was derived from the propensity-matching algorithm. Although use of EA was associated with more blood transfusions (relative risk, 1.36; 95% confidence interval, 1.12–1.65; P = 0.001) and longer hospital stay (median [interquartile range], 6 [5–8] vs 6 [4–8] days), the use of coagulation factors and the incidence of postoperative hemorrhage/hematomas or other postoperative complications were not higher in patients receiving EA. In conclusion, the use of EA for MLR is low, and EA does not seem to influence the incidence of postoperative complications. EA, however, was associated with an increased use of blood transfusions and a longer hospital stay. PMID:25484494

Age and Gender Effects on Wideband Absorbance in Adults With Normal Outer and Middle Ear Function.

PubMed

Mazlan, Rafidah; Kei, Joseph; Ya, Cheng Li; Yusof, Wan Nur Hanim Mohd; Saim, Lokman; Zhao, Fei

2015-08-01

This study examined the effects of age and gender on wideband energy absorbance in adults with normal middle ear function. Forty young adults (14 men, 26 women, aged 20-38 years), 31 middle-aged adults (16 men, 15 women, aged 42-64 years), and 30 older adults (20 men, 10 women, aged 65-82 years) were assessed. Energy absorbance (EA) data were collected at 30 frequencies using a prototype commercial instrument developed by Interacoustics. Results showed that the young adult group had significantly lower EA (between 400 and 560 Hz) than the middle-aged group. However, the middle-aged group showed significantly lower EA (between 2240 and 5040 Hz) than the young adult group. In addition, the older adult group had significantly lower EA than the young adult group (between 2520 and 5040 Hz). No significant difference in EA was found at any frequency between middle-aged and older adults. Across age groups, gender differences were found with men having significantly higher EA values than women at lower frequencies, whereas women had significantly higher EA at higher frequencies. This study provides evidence of the influence of gender and age on EA in adults with normal outer and middle ear function. These findings support the importance of establishing age- and gender-specific EA norms for the adult population.

High-resolution mass spectrometry to evaluate the influence of cross-breeding segregating populations on the phenolic profile of virgin olive oils.

PubMed

Sánchez de Medina, Verónica; Calderón-Santiago, Mónica; El Riachy, Milad; Priego-Capote, Feliciano; Luque de Castro, María Dolores

2014-12-01

The growing demand for high-quality virgin olive oils (VOOs) has increased the interest in olive breeding programs. Cross-breeding is considered, within these programs, the best strategy to generate new cultivars as an attempt to improve the present cultivars. In this research, the phenolic profile of VOOs from target crosses (Arbequina × Arbosana, Picual × Koroneiki and Sikitita × Arbosana) and their corresponding genitors (Arbequina, Arbosana, Koroneiki, Picual and Sikitita) has been evaluated using a targeted metabolomics approach. The phenolic profiles were obtained by liquid chromatographic-hybrid quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometric targeted analysis of 37 phenols or compounds involved in the main pathways for their biosynthesis. Statistical multivariate analysis by principal component analysis was applied to study the influence of genotype on phenol composition. Phenolic compounds with the highest contribution to explain the observed variability associated to genotype were identified through fold change algorithms (cut-off > 2.0) and t-test analysis. A total of nine phenols (viz. quercetin, ligstroside aglycon (p-HPEA-EA), demethyl oleuropein aglycon, oleuropein aglycon (3,4-DHPEA-EA), hydroxypinoresinol, hydroxytyrosol and phenolic acids such as p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid and protocatechuic acid) contributed to explain the observed variability with 99% confidence (P<0.01). © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.

76 FR 54525 - Notice of Availability of a Final Environmental Assessment (Final EA) and a Finding of No...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-01

... Environmental Assessment (Final EA) and a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI)/Record of Decision (ROD) for... Environmental Assessment (Final EA) and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI)/Record of Decision (ROD) for a...)/Record of Decision (ROD) based on the Final Environmental Assessment (Final EA) for a Proposed Airport...

75 FR 5016 - Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Northeast Multispecies Fishery; Framework Adjustment 44

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-02-01

... section of this proposed rule. Copies of the Environmental Assessment (EA) prepared for this rule may be... submitted to NMFS as of September 1, 2009, as indicated in the EA. In contrast, the proposed Annual Catch... the FW 44 EA. The FW 44 EA contains a brief discussion of the potential effects on the environment...

A novel plasmid pEA68 of Erwinia amylovora and the description of a new family of plasmids.

PubMed

Ismail, Emadeldeen; Blom, Jochen; Bultreys, Alain; Ivanović, Milan; Obradović, Aleksa; van Doorn, Joop; Bergsma-Vlami, Maria; Maes, Martine; Willems, Anne; Duffy, Brion; Stockwell, Virginia O; Smits, Theo H M; Puławska, Joanna

2014-12-01

Recent genome analysis of Erwinia amylovora, the causal agent of fire blight disease on Rosaceae, has shown that the chromosome is highly conserved among strains and that plasmids are the principal source of genomic diversity. A new circular plasmid, pEA68, was found in E. amylovora strain 692 (LMG 28361), isolated in Poland from Sorbus (mountain ash) with fire blight symptoms. Annotation of the 68,763-bp IncFIIa-type plasmid revealed that it contains 79 predicted CDS, among which two operons (tra, pil) are associated with mobility. The plasmid is maintained stably in E. amylovora and does not possess genes associated with antibiotic resistance or known virulence genes. Curing E. amylovora strain 692 of pEA68 did not influence its virulence in apple shoots nor amylovoran synthesis. Of 488 strains of E. amylovora from seventeen countries, pEA68 was only found in two additional strains from Belgium. Although the spread of pEA68 is currently limited to Europe, pEA68 comprises, together with pEA72 and pEA78 both found in North America, a new plasmid family that spans two continents.

Degradation and epimerization of ergot alkaloids after baking and in vitro digestion.

PubMed

Merkel, Stefan; Dib, Baha; Maul, Ronald; Köppen, Robert; Koch, Matthias; Nehls, Irene

2012-11-01

The degradation and epimerization of ergot alkaloids (EAs) in rye flour were investigated after baking cookies and subsequently subjecting them to an in vitro digestion model. Different steps of digestion were analyzed using salivary, gastric, and duodenal juices. The degradation and bidirectional conversion of the toxicologically relevant (R)-epimers and the biologically inactive (S)-epimers for seven pairs of EAs were determined by a HPLC method coupled with fluorescence detection. Baking cookies resulted in degradation of EAs (2-30 %) and a shift in the epimeric ratio toward the (S)-epimer for all EAs. The applied digestion model led to a selective toxification of ergotamine and ergosine, two ergotamine-type EAs. The initial percentage of the toxic (R)-epimer in relation to the total toxin content was considerably increased after digestion of cookies. Ergotamine and ergosine increased from 32 to 51 % and 35 to 55 %, respectively. In contrast, EAs of the ergotoxine type (ergocornine, α- and β-ergocryptine, and ergocristine) showed an epimeric shift toward their biologically inactive (S)-epimers. Further experiments indicated that the selective epimerization of ergotamine EAs occurs in the duodenal juice only. These results demonstrate that toxification of EAs in the intestinal tract should be taken into consideration.

Development of antiproliferative nanohybrid compound with controlled release property using ellagic acid as the active agent

PubMed Central

Hussein, Mohd Zobir; Al Ali, Samer Hasan; Zainal, Zulkarnain; Hakim, Muhammad Nazrul

2011-01-01

An ellagic acid (EA)–zinc layered hydroxide (ZLH) nanohybrid (EAN) was synthesized under a nonaqueous environment using EA and zinc oxide (ZnO) as the precursors. Powder X-ray diffraction showed that the basal spacing of the nanohybrid was 10.4 Å, resulting in the spatial orientation of EA molecules between the interlayers of 22.5° from z-axis with two negative charges at 8,8′ position of the molecules pointed toward the ZLH interlayers. FTIR study showed that the intercalated EA spectral feature is generally similar to that of EA, but with bands slightly shifted. This indicates that some chemical bonding of EA presence between the nanohybrid interlayers was slightly changed, due to the formation of host–guest interaction. The nanohybrid is of mesopores type with 58.8% drug loading and enhanced thermal stability. The release of the drug active, EA from the nanohybrid was found to be sustained and therefore has good potential to be used as a drug controlled-release formulation. In vitro bioassay study showed that the EAN has a mild effect on the hepatocytes cells, similar to its counterpart, free EA. PMID:21796241

Investigation of very high energy cosmic rays by means of inclined muon bundles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bogdanov, A. G.; Kokoulin, R. P.; Mannocchi, G.; Petrukhin, A. A.; Saavedra, O.; Shutenko, V. V.; Trinchero, G.; Yashin, I. I.

2018-03-01

In a typical approach to extensive air shower (EAS) investigations, horizontal arrays are used and near-vertical EAS are detected. In contrast, in this work vertically arranged muon detectors are used to study inclined EAS. At large zenith angles, EAS consisting solely of muon component are employed. The transverse dimensions of EAS rapidly increase when the zenith angle increases. Hence, EAS in a wide energy interval can be explored by means of a relatively small detector. Here we present results of the analysis of the data on inclined muon bundles accumulated from 2002 to 2016 in the DECOR experiment. For the first time, these results demonstrate with more than 3σ significance the existence of the second knee in the EAS muon component spectrum near 1017 eV primary energy. An excess of muon bundles at energies about 1 EeV found earlier in DECOR data has been confirmed and analyzed in detail. It is highly likely that the obtained outcomes indicate the appearance of new processes of muon generation.

[Effect of Electroacupuncture and Moxibustion on Visceral Pain and Expression of VR 1 and HSP 70 of "Tianshu" (ST 25) Region in Colorectal Distension-induced Visceral Hypersensitivity Rats].

PubMed

Li, Yu-Wei; Zhao, Ji-Meng; Chen, Liu; Shang, Hai-Xia; Wu, Lu-Yi; Bao, Chun-Hui; Dou, Chuan-Zi; Wu, Huan-Gan; Shi, Yin

2016-08-25

To compare the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) and moxibustion (Moxi) on visceral pain and expression of vanilloid receptor subtype 1 (VR 1) and heat shock protein (HSP)70 in "Tianshu" (ST 25) region in colorectal distension (CRD)-induced visceral hypersensitivity (VHS) rats. Fifty male SD rats were randomly divided into normal control, VHS model, 43℃-moxi, 46℃-moxi, 1 mA-EA and 3 mA-EA groups ( n =10 in each group). The VSH model was established by CRD once daily for 14 days. EA or Moxi stimulation was applied to bilateral "Tianshu" (ST 25) for 10 min, once daily for consecutive 10 days. The abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR) scores (0-4 points) were rated according to Al-Chaer's and coworkers' standards (2000) and the expression levels of VR 1 and HSP 70 in bilateral ST 25 area tissues detected by immunohistochemistry. The AWR scores for 20, 40, 60 and 80 mmHg CRD pressures were significantly increased compared to the normal control group ( P <0.01) and notably decreased after 43℃- and 46℃-moxi, and 1 mA- and 3 mA-EA stimulation of bila-teral ST 25 in comparison with the model group ( P <0.05, P <0.01), and the effect of 46℃-moxi was apparently superior to those of 1 mA-EA at 40 and 80 mmHg, and 3 mA-EA at 40 mmHg ( P <0.05). After modeling, the expression of both VR 1 and HSP 70 (percentages of area of positive-cells) in ST 25 region had no significant changes ( P >0.05). Compared to the model group, the expression levels of VR 1 in the 43℃-moxi and 46℃-moxi groups, and HSP 70 in the 43℃-moxi and 46℃-moxi, 1 mA-EA and 3 mA-EA groups were significantly up-regulated ( P <0.01), but without obvious changes in the expression of VR 1 in the 1 mA-EA and 3 mA-EA groups ( P >0.05). The effects of 46℃-moxi were considerably better than those of 43℃-moxi, 1 mA-EA and 3 mA-EA in up-regulating VR 1 and HSP 70 expression ( P <0.05, P <0.01). No significant differences were found among the 43℃-moxi, 1 mA-EA and 3 mA-EA groups in the expression of VR 1 and HSP 70 ( P >0.05). Moxibustion at 43℃ and 46℃ and EA at 1 mA and 3 mA, especially the 46℃-moxi, can relieve visceral pain in visceral hypersensitivity rats, which may be related to their effects in up-regulating expression of VR 1 and HSP 70 in "Tianshu" (ST 25) area.

Research on Advanced Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) Methods for Aerospace Structures

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-03-01

al iz ed re sp on se (l in ea r s ca le ) N or m al iz ed re sp on se (l in ea...variations showed some differences after weathering (Figure 4.2.2-2). 0.0 1.0 2.0 0 1 2 3 4 5 Weathering time (hours) N or m al iz ed p ea k ar ea 0.0...1.0 2.0 0 1 2 3 4 5 Weathering time (hours)N or m al iz ed p ea k he ig ht s (A) (B) 52 Prior to weathering, the height variation

[Electroacupuncture Combined with Clomiphene Promotes Pregnancy and Blastocyst Implantation Possibly by Up-regulating Expression of Insulin Receptor and Insulin Receptor Substrate 1 Proteins in Endometrium in Rats with PCOS].

PubMed

Lai, Mao-Hua; Ma, Hong-Xia; Song, Xing-Hua

2016-10-25

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) intervention combined with clomiphene critate (CC) on the blastocyst implantation and pregnancy rate and expression of insulin receptor (INSR) and insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS 1) proteins in the endometrium in rats with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), so as to reveal its mechanisms underlying improvement of PCOS. One hundred and twenty-five female SD rats were randomly divided into normal control, PCOS model, medication (CC), EA and EA+CC groups ( n =25 in each group, 15 for checking blastocyst implantation, and 10 for Western blot). The PCOS model was established by subcutaneous injection of Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and fed with high-fat diet. Rats of the normal control group were treated by subcutaneous injection of sesame oil and fed with the normal forage. EA stimulation was applied to "Zhongwan" (CV 12), "Guanyuan" (CV 4) and bilateral "Tianshu" (ST 25) for 30 min, 3 times a week, 5 weeks altogether. Rats of the CC and EA+CC groups were fed with CC (100 mg·kg -1 ·d -1 ) for 2 days after regular restriction (30 min, 3 times a week, 5 weeks altogether). The pregnancy was determined by vaginal smear tests and the number of blastocyst implantation determined by examination of the uterus after execution. The expression of INSR and IRS 1 proteins in the endometrium was detected by Western blot. The pregnancy rate and the number of blastocyst implantation were significantly lower in the model group than in the normal control group ( P <0.05), and remarkably increased after EA and EA+CC interventions ( P <0.05). The effects of EA+CC were obviously superior to those of simple EA and simple medication in raising the pregnancy rate and the number of blastocyst implantation ( P <0.05). No significant differences were found between the EA and CC groups in the pregnancy rate and the number of blastocyst implantation ( P >0.05). The relative expression levels of both INSR and IRS 1 proteins were markedly lower in the model group than in the normal control group ( P <0.05), and significantly higher in both EA and EA+CC groups than in the model group ( P <0.05). No significant differences were found between the model and the CC groups and between the EA and EA+CC groups in the expression levels of INSR and IRS 1 proteins ( P >0.05). EA intervention can improve pregnancy rate and the number of blastocyst implantation in PCOS rats, which may be related to its effects in up-regulating the expression of INSR and IRS 1 proteins in the endometrium.

Effects of electroacupuncture at BL33 on detrusor smooth muscle activity in a rat model of urinary retention.

PubMed

Liu, Xiaoxu; Liu, Kun; Zhi, Mujun; Mo, Qian; Gao, Xinyan; Liu, Zhishun

2017-12-01

Detrusor smooth muscle (DSM) underactivity may lead to urinary retention (UR). Electroacupuncture (EA) at BL33 may be effective in improving DSM contractions. This study aimed to investigate: (1) the effect of EA at BL33; and (2) the effect of different manipulation methods at BL33 on the modulation of DSM contractions in UR rats. 30 male Sprague-Dawley rats were anaesthetised with urethane and modelled by urethral outlet obstruction. First, 2 Hz EA at BL33, SP6 and LI4 wasrandomly applied to the UR rats for 5 min to observe the immediate effects (n=10); second, manual acupuncture (MA) (n=10) and 100 Hz EA (n=10) were applied with the same programme. DSM electromyography (EMG) and cystometrogram data were evaluated. (1) 2 Hz EA at BL33 and SP6 significantly increased DSM discharging frequency (0.80±0.10 Hz, P<0.001, and 0.22±0.14 Hz, P=0.038), shortened micturation intervals (65.67±20.65 s, P=0.008, and 35.62±15.84 s, P=0.042), prolonged the duration of voiding (2.13±0.61 s, P=0.005, and 0.47±0.16 s, P=0.015), and reduced residual pressure (-0.91±0.31 mmHg, P=0.019, and -0.66±0.27 mmHg, P=0.046). EA at LI4 was not associated with any functional effects (P>0.05). Compared with SP6, EA at BL33 had greater positive effects on DSM discharging frequency, duration of discharging, and duration of voiding (all P<0.05). (2) No statistically significant differences were shown between MA, 2 Hz EA and 100 Hz EA interventions when stimulating at BL33, SP6 or LI4. EA at BL33 improved DSM contractions to a greater degree than EA at SP6 or LI4. There were no differences in effect when stimulating using 2 Hz EA, 100 Hz EA and MA. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

[Clinical study of the electroacupuncture combined with thunder-fire moxibustion in treatment of degenerative knee osteoarthritis with cold-damp stagnation].

PubMed

Zhang, Huajun; Xu, Haidong; Liu, Tingting; Li, Peifa

2016-12-12

To observe the clinical effect of early degenerative knee osteoarthritis with cold-damp stagnation treated with electroacupuncture (EA) combined with thunder-fire moxibustion and simple EA. Eighty cases were randomly assigned into a combination group and an EA group,40 cases in each one. Twenty-five min EA was used in the EA group mainly at ashi points,Neixiyan(EX-LE 4),Zusanli(ST 36),Dubi(ST 35),Yanglingquan(GB 34),Yinlingquan(SP 9) and Liangqiu(ST 34) after deqi ( qi arrival),once a day. Based on EA at the same acupoints as the EA group,thunder-fire moxibustion was applied at ashi points,Dubi(ST 35)and Liangqiu(ST 34) by means of 20-minute suspended moxibustion,once a day. Ten-day treatment was seen as one course,and continuous 2 courses were applied. The indices were observed before and after treatment including visual analogue scale(VAS) score,Lequesne index score,Lysholm score of knee joint,serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Clinical effects were also evaluated and 6-month follow-up was implemented to show the recurrence rate. After treatment the total effective rate of the combination group was 95.0%(38/40),which was better than 82.5%(33/40) of the EA group( P <0.05).The Lequesne index score,VAS score,serum CRP and ESR apparently decreased compared with those before treatment in the two groups(all P <0.05),and the four indices in the combination group were obviously lower than those in the EA group(all P <0.05). As for the Lysholm knee joint score,the good rates of the two groups enhanced after treatment(both P <0.05),and the result of the combination group was superior to that of the EA group[87.5%(35/40) vs 72.5%(29/40), P <0.05]. At 6-month follow-up,the recurrence rate of the combination group was lower than that of the EA group[26.7%(4/15) vs 100.0%(9/9), P <0.05]. EA combined with thunder-fire moxibustion achieve good effect for degenerative knee osteoarthritis with cold-damp stagnation. The combination therapy have advantages in effect duration compared with simple EA.

32 CFR 651.34 - EA components.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... and comparison of impacts should provide sufficient analysis to reach a conclusion regarding the... ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS OF ARMY ACTIONS (AR 200-2) Environmental Assessment § 651.34 EA components. EAs should be...

32 CFR 651.34 - EA components.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... and comparison of impacts should provide sufficient analysis to reach a conclusion regarding the... ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS OF ARMY ACTIONS (AR 200-2) Environmental Assessment § 651.34 EA components. EAs should be...

78 FR 28245 - In the Matter of Southern Nuclear Operating Company, Farley Nuclear Plant, Units 1 and 2...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-14

... recent public examples, including those documented in EA-12-240 and EA-12-230, and the impacts when there... and EA-12-230, and the impacts when there is a loss of integrity and trustworthiness. f. By the later...-8; EA-12-145] In the Matter of Southern Nuclear Operating Company, Farley Nuclear Plant, Units 1 and...

Effect of 100 Hz electroacupuncture on salivary immunoglobulin A and the autonomic nervous system.

PubMed

Hideaki, Waki; Tatsuya, Hisajima; Shogo, Miyazaki; Naruto, Yoshida; Hideaki, Tamai; Yoichi, Minakawa; Yoshihiro, Okuma; Kazuo, Uebaba; Hidenori, Takahashi

2015-12-01

A previous study has reported that low-frequency (LF) electroacupuncture (EA) influences salivary secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) and the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS is known to control the secretion volume of sIgA; however, the effect of high-frequency (HF) EA on salivary sIgA has not been determined. We investigated whether HF EA affects salivary sIgA levels and the ANS. Sixteen healthy subjects were randomly classified into two groups: a control group and an EA group. After a 5 min rest, subjects in the EA group received EA at 100 Hz bilaterally at LI4 and LI11 for 15 min before resting for a further 40 min post-stimulation. Subjects in the control group rested for a total of 60 min. Measurements of the ANS and sIgA levels in both groups were made before, immediately after, 20 min after, and 40 min after rest or 15 min EA treatment. HF and LF components of heart rate variability were analysed as markers of ANS function. LF/HF ratio and HF were taken as indices of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve activity, respectively. Salivary protein concentrations and sIgA levels were determined by Bradford protein assay and ELISA, respectively. LF/HF ratio was significantly increased immediately after EA. HF was significantly increased at 20 min after EA and sIgA level was significantly increased at 40 min after EA. In addition, HF and salivary sIgA level were positively correlated with each another. HF EA exerted sequential positive effects on sympathetic nerve activity, parasympathetic nerve activity, and salivary sIgA level (immediately and after 20 and 40 min, respectively). HF EA may increase salivary sIgA levels by influencing parasympathetic nerve activity. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Products of the direct reaction of the diazonium ion of a metabolite of the carcinogen N-nitrosomorpholine with purines of nucleosides and DNA.

PubMed

Zink, Charles N; Soissons, Nicolas; Fishbein, James C

2010-07-19

A number of putative purine nucleoside and nucleobase adducts of the diazonium ion derived from 3-hydroxy-N-nitrosomorpholine have been synthesized as dimethylacetals. These are converted, in most cases nearly quantitatively, to the aldehydes, or in two cases to their derivatives, on treatment with mild acid to yield standards for a quantitative investigation of alkylation of purine nucleosides and DNA by the above metabolite of the powerful carcinogen N-nitrosomorpholine. The stability of the resulting nucleobase ethoxyacetaldehyde (EA) adducts has been characterized under a number of conditions with respect to their propensity to decompose. The stabilities, compared to that of the previously characterized adduct of the model benzimidazole, are generally unexceptional. Deposition of adducts on purine nucleosides and DNA were quantified in reactions in which 3-hydroperoxy-N-nitrosomorpholine was reduced to the hydroxy metabolite by a water-soluble phosphine at 21 +/- 2 degrees C. The adduct profile is highly similar to that observed from simpler alpha-hydroxy metabolites of acyclic dialkylnitrosamines, with the three most abundant ethoxyacetaldehyde (EA) adducts in reactions of duplex DNA being N7-EA-Gua approximately O(6)-EA-Gua > N3-EA-Ade. The initial rate kinetics of formation of hydroxyethyl (HE) lesions from the initially formed EA lesions have been determined in the case of the major products in the cases of both the nucleoside and DNA adducts. The rates of formation of HE adducts are accelerated in DNA, relative to the nucleosides in the cases of the N7-EA-Ade, N7-EA-Gua, and O(6)-EA-Gua adducts by factors of 7, 14, and 54, respectively. The initial rates of depurination of the N3-EA-Ade, N7-EA-Gua, and N7-EA-Gua adducts have also been quantified, and they are unexceptional in comparison with what has been previously reported for simple alkyl adducts. The adduct profiles reported here stand in significant contrast to what has been reported previously for structurally closely related alpha-substituted cyclic nitrosamines. In part or whole, this may be due to methodological differences in the conduct of the present and previous reports.

Finite-time hybrid projective synchronization of the drive-response complex networks with distributed-delay via adaptive intermittent control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Lin; Yang, Yongqing; Li, Li; Sui, Xin

2018-06-01

This paper studies the finite-time hybrid projective synchronization of the drive-response complex networks. In the model, general transmission delays and distributed delays are also considered. By designing the adaptive intermittent controllers, the response network can achieve hybrid projective synchronization with the drive system in finite time. Based on finite-time stability theory and several differential inequalities, some simple finite-time hybrid projective synchronization criteria are derived. Two numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.

Luminescent hybrid materials based on (8-hydroxyquinoline)-substituted metal-organic complexes and lead-borate glasses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petrova, Olga B.; Anurova, Maria O.; Akkuzina, Alina A.; Saifutyarov, Rasim R.; Ermolaeva, Ekaterina V.; Avetisov, Roman I.; Khomyakov, Andrew V.; Taydakov, Ilya V.; Avetissov, Igor Ch.

2017-07-01

Novel luminescent organic-inorganic hybrid materials based on 8-hydroxyquinoline metal complexes (Liq, Kq, Naq, Rbq, Mgq2, Srq2, Znq2, Scq3, Alq3, Gaq3, and Inq3) have been synthesized by a high temperature exchange reaction with 80PbF2-20B2O3 inorganic low-melting glass. The mechanical and optical properties, transmission spectra, emission an excitation photoluminescence, and luminescence kinetic of hybrid materials were studied. All hybrid materials showed a wide luminescence band in the range 400-700 nm.

An Efficient Model-based Diagnosis Engine for Hybrid Systems Using Structural Model Decomposition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bregon, Anibal; Narasimhan, Sriram; Roychoudhury, Indranil; Daigle, Matthew; Pulido, Belarmino

2013-01-01

Complex hybrid systems are present in a large range of engineering applications, like mechanical systems, electrical circuits, or embedded computation systems. The behavior of these systems is made up of continuous and discrete event dynamics that increase the difficulties for accurate and timely online fault diagnosis. The Hybrid Diagnosis Engine (HyDE) offers flexibility to the diagnosis application designer to choose the modeling paradigm and the reasoning algorithms. The HyDE architecture supports the use of multiple modeling paradigms at the component and system level. However, HyDE faces some problems regarding performance in terms of complexity and time. Our focus in this paper is on developing efficient model-based methodologies for online fault diagnosis in complex hybrid systems. To do this, we propose a diagnosis framework where structural model decomposition is integrated within the HyDE diagnosis framework to reduce the computational complexity associated with the fault diagnosis of hybrid systems. As a case study, we apply our approach to a diagnostic testbed, the Advanced Diagnostics and Prognostics Testbed (ADAPT), using real data.

Neuroprotective effect of electroacupuncture and upregulation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α during acute ischaemic stroke in rats.

PubMed

Li, Ce; Zhang, Tingting; Yu, Kewei; Xie, Hongyu; Bai, Yulong; Zhang, Li; Wu, Yi; Wang, Nianhong

2017-10-01

Acupuncture is a traditional method that has been widely used in various fields of medicine with therapeutic effect. However, evidence of effectiveness to support the application of electroacupuncture (EA) during the process of ischaemia is scarce. To investigate dynamic changes in hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α expression as well as its association with neurological status in rats subjected to acute ischaemic stroke and EA intervention. Forty adult male rats were randomly divided into three groups that received sham surgery (Control group, n=10) or underwent middle cerebral artery occlusion and EA (MCAO+EA group, n=15) or minimal acupuncture as a control treatment (MCAO+MA group, n=15). The rats in the MCAO+EA and MCAO+MA groups received EA or acupuncture without any electrical current, respectively, during 90 min of ischaemia. Rats in the Control group received the same surgical procedure but without MCAO. EA involved electrical stimulation of needles inserted into the quadriceps at 50 Hz frequency and 3 mA current intensity. Neurological status was evaluated on postoperative day 1, and cerebral infarction volume (IV) and HIF-1α expression 24 hours later. Neurological scores were improved and cerebral IV was decreased in the MCAO+EA group compared to the MCAO+MA group (both p<0.05). Moreover, HIF-1α expression was higher in the MCAO+EA group versus the MCAO+MA group (p<0.05). EA enhanced recovery of neurological function, decreased cerebral IV and increased HIF-1α expression in ischaemic rats. Further research is needed to determine whether EA is effective for stroke treatment through the stimulation of muscle contraction. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Parameter-specific analgesic effects of electroacupuncture mediated by degree of regulation TRPV1 and P2X3 in inflammatory pain in rats.

PubMed

Fang, J Q; Du, J Y; Fang, J F; Xiao, T; Le, X Q; Pan, N F; Yu, J; Liu, B Y

2018-05-01

Observing the parameter-specific anti-hyperalgesic effects of EA with different stimulation times and frequencies on painful hyperalgesia mediated by the level of TRPV1 and P2X3 expression in DRG after CFA injection. The model was induced by the injection of CFA in each rat's right hind paw. EA treatment was applied to the bilateral ST36 and BL60. Paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) and paw withdrawal latency (PWL) were tested with Von Frey filaments and the radiant heat source of the test instrument, respectively. TRPV1 and P2X3 expressions were measured by immunofluorescence and western blot. αβ-meATP and capsaicine combined with EA were further utilized to investigate the change in PWL. Different stimulation times (20, 30, 45 min) combined with different frequencies (2 Hz, 100 Hz, 2/100 Hz) of EA have analgesic effects on the PWT and PWL; however, the level of the hypoalgesic efficacy of EA was primarily associated with EA frequency. The analgesic effect of EA was better at 100 Hz than at 2 Hz. The level of regulation of 100 Hz EA on TRPV1 and P2X3 in DRG was greater than that of 2 Hz. Furthermore, both TRPV1 agonist and P2X3 agonist may impair the level of EA analgesia. EA has a parameter-specific effect on chronic inflammatory pain relief, which primarily depend on the stimulation frequency and not on the stimulation time at a certain stimulation time. The parameter-specific analgesic effect of EA is at least partially related to mediation of the protein level of TRPV1 and P2X3 expression in DRG of CFA rats. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Enhanced erythrocyte aggregation in type 2 diabetes with late complications.

PubMed

Demiroglu, H; Gürlek, A; Barişta, I

1999-01-01

We investigated whether erythrocyte aggregation (EA) is enhanced in type 2 diabetic patients who have developed microvascular or macrovascular complications. EA rates at high and low shear rates were analysed in 141 patients with type 2 diabetes who were further divided into 4 subgroups according to the status of diabetic complications and degree of metabolic control. Groups 1 (n = 43) and 2 (n = 23) consisted of well-controlled patients without and with clinically evident late complications, while groups 3 (n = 33) and 4 (n = 42) represented poorly controlled patients without and with these complications, respectively. 124 healthy subjects served as the control group. Mean EA rate was comparable between control subjects and group 1 both at high (2.05 +/- 0.03 vs. 2.14 +/- 0.07, respectively) and low (6.96 +/- 0.02 vs. 7.04 +/- 0.06, respectively) shear rates. Mean EA rate was also comparable between groups 2 and 4 at high (2.76 +/- 0.09 vs. 2.94 +/- 0.07, respectively) and low (8.18 +/- 0.13 vs. 8.41 +/- 0.1, respectively) shear rates. However, EA at both shear rates in groups 2 and 4 were significantly higher than control subjects, group 1 (p < 0.0001) and group 3 (high shear rate EA: 2.76 +/- 0.09 and low shear rate EA: 7.48 +/- 0.07 (p < 0.01). In group 3, EA rates were significantly higher than control subjects and group 1 (p < 0.05) at both shear rates. No significant correlation was found between EA at high and low shear rates and fibrinogen levels in diabetic subgroups and control subjects. The data suggest that patients with type 2 diabetes who had developed clinically evident late complications have enhanced EA regardless of the degree of metabolic control. Whether enhanced EA is a primary phenomenon contributing to the development of these complications or it occurs secondary to their development remains to be clarified.

Effect of Electroacupuncture on Transcutaneous Oxygen Partial Pressure During Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Healthy Individuals.

PubMed

Qu, Lan; Ye, Yong; Li, Chunfeng; Gao, Guangkai

2015-01-01

The goal of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is to increase the oxygen (O₂) supply to the body significantly. Because of the toxic side effects and complications of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO₂), the environmental pressure and treatment time must be restricted. The research team hypothesized that other therapies administered during HBOT could safely improve the value of the arterial oxygen partial pressure (PaO₂) during HBOT and improve its therapeutic effect. The study intended to investigate whether electroacupuncture (EA) while receiving HBOT had a greater effect for healthy individuals than HBOT or EA alone or EA combined with normobaric pure oxygen (pure O₂). The research team designed a randomized, controlled trial. The study was performed in the Department of Hyperbaric Medicine at the No. 401 Hospital of the People's Liberation Army in Qingdao, China. A total of 81 volunteers were recruited. After thorough physical examination and laboratory testing, 21 volunteers were excluded from the study. Participants included 60 healthy volunteers. Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups of 15 participants each: (1) an HBOT group, (2) an EA group, (3) an EA During HBOT group, and (4) an EA Combined With Pure O₂group. Because at the current technology level a blood gas analyzer cannot test PaO₂during HBOT, transcutaneous oxygen partial pressure (PtcO₂) of the participants was tested instead. Before, during, and after EA, variations in PtcO₂were monitored in each group. For the EA During HBOT group, (1) the increase in PtcO₂during EA was significantly greater than that observed for the other 3 groups (P > .05). The EA During HBOT method provided improvements in the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of HBOT, and the study's results partially demonstrated the accuracy of the research team's hypothesis that EA therapy applied during HBOT could safely improve the value of PtcO₂(PaO₂) during HBOT and produce a greater therapeutic effect.

Ellagic acid impedes carbontetrachloride-induced liver damage in rats through suppression of NF-kB, Bcl-2 and regulating Nrf-2 and caspase pathway.

PubMed

Aslan, Abdullah; Gok, Ozlem; Erman, Orhan; Kuloglu, Tuncay

2018-06-11

The use of natural antioxidants instead of conventional treatments is considered effective and safe alternative therapy for hepatotoxicity. Ellagic acid (EA) is a strong antioxidant matter having protecting effect particularly on the liver. Hepatotoxic compounds can cause very heavy damage. Among these chemical hepatotoxins, CCl 4 are responsible for the trichloromethyl radical resulting from biotransformation of the liver. The aim of this study was to examine whether EA plays a protective role against to liver damage induced with carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4 ) in rats. In this study, 36 male wistar albino (n = 36, 8 weeks old) rats were used. The rats were distributed into 4 groups, and 9 rats involved in each group. The groups were: (i) Control Group: Fed with standard diet; (ii) EA Group: Fed with standard diet + EA; (iii) CCl 4 Group: Fed with standard diet + CCl 4 ; (iv) CCl 4 + EA Group: Fed with standard diet + CCl 4 + EA. After 8 weeks, the rats were decapitated and the liver tissue were examined. As a result; EA application created a significant difference (p < 0.05) on caspase-3, bcl-2, NF-kB and Nrf-2 expression in the CCl 4 + EA group in comparison to CCl 4 group. Caspase-3 and Nrf-2 expression levels were increased in the CCl 4 + EA group in comparison to CCl 4 group, but bcl-2 and NF-kB expression levels were decreased. In TUNEL assay examinations, apoptotic index ratio was decreased in the CCl 4 + EA group in comparison to CCl 4 group. These results show that EA reduce liver damage ratio at wistar albino rats and also these results suggest that ellagic acid may be a potentially protective drug against to liver damage in future. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Perceptions of preclinical medical students towards extracurricular activities.

PubMed

Almasry, Mazen; Kayali, Zeina; Alsaad, Rakan; Alhayaza, Ghada; Ahmad, Mohammad Sharique; Obeidat, Akef; Abu-Zaid, Ahmed

2017-08-16

To determine the percentage of students involved in extracurricular activities (EAs), explore relationships between participation in EAs and students' characteristics, and investigate students' perceptions (i.e., motives and barriers) towards participation in EAs. An online, anonymous, random, cross-sectional, self-rating survey was administered during spring 2015-2016 to second-year and third-year students (n=340). Chi-square test was used to explore relationships between participation in EAs and students' characteristics. Mann-Whitney U-test was used to compare the mean 5-point Likert scale responses according to students' characteristics. Statistical significance was determined as p<0.05. Two hundred thirty-seven students participated in the survey (n=237/340, response rate: 69.7%). Only 143 students (60.3%, n=140/237) participated in EAs, and this percentage significantly differed by gender (χ 2 (1, N=237)=4.3205, p<0.037), nationality (χ 2 (1, N=237)=18.7069, p<0.000) and cumulative grade point average (cGPA, χ 2 (1, N=237)=17.8296, p<0.000). The top three motives towards participation in EAs were: "improve resume" (83.5%, n=198), "improve networking skills" (82.7%, n=196) and "improve teamwork skills" (76.8%, n=182). The top three barriers towards participation in EAs were: "lack of time" (61.2%, n=145), "lack of equal opportunities in EAs" (57.8%, n=137) and "lack of curricular emphasis of EAs" (52.7%, n=125). There was a statistically significant difference of means between male (mean=2.8) and female (mean=3.2) students regarding the following barrier: "affect academic performance negatively" (U=5389.5, p<0.002). The participation rate in EAs was satisfactory, and positively related to students' characteristics of male gender, non-Saudi nationality and high cGPA. Medical schools should facilitate all potential motives and resolve all associated barriers towards participation in EAs.

Factors associated with Hearing Loss in a Normal-Hearing Guinea Pig Model of Hybrid Cochlear Implants

PubMed Central

Tanaka, Chiemi; Nguyen-Huynh, Anh; Loera, Katherine; Stark, Gemaine; Reiss, Lina

2014-01-01

The Hybrid cochlear implant (CI), also known as Electro- Acoustic Stimulation (EAS), is a new type of CI that preserves residual acoustic hearing and enables combined cochlear implant and hearing aid use in the same ear. However, 30-55% of patients experience acoustic hearing loss within days to months after activation, suggesting that both surgical trauma and electrical stimulation may cause hearing loss. The goals of this study were to: 1) determine the contributions of both implantation surgery and EAS to hearing loss in a normal-hearing guinea pig model; 2) determine which cochlear structural changes are associated with hearing loss after surgery and EAS. Two groups of animals were implanted (n=6 per group), with one group receiving chronic acoustic and electric stimulation for 10 weeks, and the other group receiving no direct acoustic or electric stimulation during this time frame. A third group (n=6) was not implanted, but received chronic acoustic stimulation. Auditory brainstem response thresholds were followed over time at 1, 2, 6, and 16 kHz. At the end of the study, the following cochlear measures were quantified: hair cells, spiral ganglion neuron density, fibrous tissue density, and stria vascularis blood vessel density; the presence or absence of ossification around the electrode entry was also noted. After surgery, implanted animals experienced a range of 0-55 dB of threshold shifts in the vicinity of the electrode at 6 and 16 kHz. The degree of hearing loss was significantly correlated with reduced stria vascularis vessel density and with the presence of ossification, but not with hair cell counts, spiral ganglion neuron density, or fibrosis area. After 10 weeks of stimulation, 67% of implanted, stimulated animals had more than 10 dB of additional threshold shift at 1 kHz, compared to 17% of implanted, non-stimulated animals and 0% of non-implanted animals. This 1-kHz hearing loss was not associated with changes in any of the cochlear measures quantified in this study. The variation in hearing loss after surgery and electrical stimulation in this animal model is consistent with the variation in human patients. Further, these findings illustrate an advantage of a normal-hearing animal model for quantification of hearing loss and damage to cochlear structures without the confounding effects of chemical- or noise-induced hearing loss. Finally, this study is the first to suggest a role of the stria vascularis and damage to the lateral wall in implantation-induced hearing loss. Further work is needed to determine the mechanisms of implantation- and electrical-stimulation-induced hearing loss. PMID:25128626

Glaucoma Progression Detection by Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Measurement Using Scanning Laser Polarimetry: Event and Trend Analysis

PubMed Central

Moon, Byung Gil; Cho, Jung Woo; Kang, Sung Yong; Yun, Sung-Cheol; Na, Jung Hwa; Lee, Youngrok; Kook, Michael S.

2012-01-01

Purpose To evaluate the use of scanning laser polarimetry (SLP, GDx VCC) to measure the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in order to evaluate the progression of glaucoma. Methods Test-retest measurement variability was determined in 47 glaucomatous eyes. One eye each from 152 glaucomatous patients with at least 4 years of follow-up was enrolled. Visual field (VF) loss progression was determined by both event analysis (EA, Humphrey guided progression analysis) and trend analysis (TA, linear regression analysis of the visual field index). SLP progression was defined as a reduction of RNFL exceeding the predetermined repeatability coefficient in three consecutive exams, as compared to the baseline measure (EA). The slope of RNFL thickness change over time was determined by linear regression analysis (TA). Results Twenty-two eyes (14.5%) progressed according to the VF EA, 16 (10.5%) by VF TA, 37 (24.3%) by SLP EA and 19 (12.5%) by SLP TA. Agreement between VF and SLP progression was poor in both EA and TA (VF EA vs. SLP EA, k = 0.110; VF TA vs. SLP TA, k = 0.129). The mean (±standard deviation) progression rate of RNFL thickness as measured by SLP TA did not significantly differ between VF EA progressors and non-progressors (-0.224 ± 0.148 µm/yr vs. -0.218 ± 0.151 µm/yr, p = 0.874). SLP TA and EA showed similar levels of sensitivity when VF progression was considered as the reference standard. Conclusions RNFL thickness as measurement by SLP was shown to be capable of detecting glaucoma progression. Both EA and TA of SLP showed poor agreement with VF outcomes in detecting glaucoma progression. PMID:22670073

Glaucoma progression detection by retinal nerve fiber layer measurement using scanning laser polarimetry: event and trend analysis.

PubMed

Moon, Byung Gil; Sung, Kyung Rim; Cho, Jung Woo; Kang, Sung Yong; Yun, Sung-Cheol; Na, Jung Hwa; Lee, Youngrok; Kook, Michael S

2012-06-01

To evaluate the use of scanning laser polarimetry (SLP, GDx VCC) to measure the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in order to evaluate the progression of glaucoma. Test-retest measurement variability was determined in 47 glaucomatous eyes. One eye each from 152 glaucomatous patients with at least 4 years of follow-up was enrolled. Visual field (VF) loss progression was determined by both event analysis (EA, Humphrey guided progression analysis) and trend analysis (TA, linear regression analysis of the visual field index). SLP progression was defined as a reduction of RNFL exceeding the predetermined repeatability coefficient in three consecutive exams, as compared to the baseline measure (EA). The slope of RNFL thickness change over time was determined by linear regression analysis (TA). Twenty-two eyes (14.5%) progressed according to the VF EA, 16 (10.5%) by VF TA, 37 (24.3%) by SLP EA and 19 (12.5%) by SLP TA. Agreement between VF and SLP progression was poor in both EA and TA (VF EA vs. SLP EA, k = 0.110; VF TA vs. SLP TA, k = 0.129). The mean (±standard deviation) progression rate of RNFL thickness as measured by SLP TA did not significantly differ between VF EA progressors and non-progressors (-0.224 ± 0.148 µm/yr vs. -0.218 ± 0.151 µm/yr, p = 0.874). SLP TA and EA showed similar levels of sensitivity when VF progression was considered as the reference standard. RNFL thickness as measurement by SLP was shown to be capable of detecting glaucoma progression. Both EA and TA of SLP showed poor agreement with VF outcomes in detecting glaucoma progression.

Failed cooperative, but not competitive, interaction between large-scale brain networks impairs working memory in schizophrenia.

PubMed

Pu, W; Luo, Q; Palaniyappan, L; Xue, Z; Yao, S; Feng, J; Liu, Z

2016-04-01

A large-scale network named the default mode network (DMN) dynamically cooperates and competes with an external attention system (EAS) to facilitate various cognitive functioning that is prominently impaired in schizophrenia. However, it is unclear whether the cognitive deficit in schizophrenia is related to the disrupted competition and/or cooperation between these two networks. A total of 35 schizophrenia patients and 30 healthy controls were scanned using gradient-echo echo-planar imaging during n-back working memory (WM) processing. Brain activities of the DMN and EAS were measured using general linear modelling of the functional magnetic resonance imaging data. Dynamic interaction between the DMN and EAS was decomposed into two directions using Granger causality analysis. We observed a significant failure of DMN suppression in patients with schizophrenia, which was significantly related to WM/attentional deficit. Granger causality modelling showed that in healthy controls, while the EAS inhibitorily influenced the DMN, the DMN exerted an 'excitatory' or cooperative influence back on the EAS, especially in those with lower WM accuracy. In schizophrenia, this 'excitatory' DMN→EAS influence within the reciprocal EAS-DMN loop was significantly reduced, especially in patients with WM/attentional deficit. The dynamic interaction between the DMN and EAS is likely to be comprised of both competitive and cooperative influences. In healthy controls, both the 'inhibitory' EAS→DMN interaction and 'excitatory' DMN→EAS interaction are correlated with WM performance. In schizophrenia, reduced 'cooperative' influence from the DMN to dorsal nodes of the EAS occurs in the context of non-suppression of the DMN and may form a possible pathophysiological substrate of WM deficit and attention disorder.

Low energy availability surrogates correlate with health and performance consequences of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport.

PubMed

Ackerman, Kathryn E; Holtzman, Bryan; Cooper, Katherine M; Flynn, Erin F; Bruinvels, Georgie; Tenforde, Adam S; Popp, Kristin L; Simpkin, Andrew J; Parziale, Allyson L

2018-06-02

Low energy availability (EA) is suspected to be the underlying cause of both the Female Athlete Triad and the more recently defined syndrome, Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S). The International Olympic Committee (IOC) defined RED-S as a syndrome of health and performance impairments resulting from an energy deficit. While the importance of adequate EA is generally accepted, few studies have attempted to understand whether low EA is associated with the health and performance consequences posited by the IOC. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to examine the association of low EA with RED-S health and performance consequences in a large clinical population of female athletes. One thousand female athletes (15-30 years) completed an online questionnaire and were classified as having low or adequate EA. The associations between low EA and the health and performance factors listed in the RED-S models were evaluated using chi-squared test and the odds ratios were evaluated using binomial logistic regression (p<0.05). Athletes with low EA were more likely to be classified as having increased risk of menstrual dysfunction, poor bone health, metabolic issues, haematological detriments, psychological disorders, cardiovascular impairment and gastrointestinal dysfunction than those with adequate EA. Performance variables associated with low EA included decreased training response, impaired judgement, decreased coordination, decreased concentration, irritability, depression and decreased endurance performance. These findings demonstrate that low EA measured using self-report questionnaires is strongly associated with many health and performance consequences proposed by the RED-S models. © 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.

Years of Life and Productivity Loss from Potentially Avoidable Colorectal Cancer Deaths in U.S. Counties with Lower Educational Attainment (2008-2012).

PubMed

Weir, Hannah K; Li, Chunyu; Henley, S Jane; Joseph, Djenaba

2017-05-01

Background: Educational attainment (EA) is inversely associated with colorectal cancer risk. Colorectal cancer screening can save lives if precancerous polyps or early cancers are found and successfully treated. This study aims to estimate the potential productivity loss (PPL) and associated avoidable colorectal cancer-related deaths among screen-eligible adults residing in lower EA counties in the United States. Methods: Mortality and population data were used to examine colorectal cancer deaths (2008-2012) among adults aged 50 to 74 years in lower EA counties, and to estimate the expected number of deaths using the mortality experience from high EA counties. Excess deaths (observed-expected) were used to estimate potential years life lost, and the human capital method was used to estimate PPL in 2012 U.S. dollars. Results: County-level colorectal cancer death rates were inversely associated with county-level EA. Of the 100,857 colorectal cancer deaths in lower EA counties, we estimated that more than 21,000 (1 in 5) was potentially avoidable and resulted in nearly $2 billion annual productivity loss. Conclusions: County-level EA disparities contribute to a large number of potentially avoidable colorectal cancer-related deaths. Increased prevention and improved screening potentially could decrease deaths and help reduce the associated economic burden in lower EA communities. Increased screening could further reduce deaths in all EA groups. Impact: These results estimate the large economic impact of potentially avoidable colorectal cancer-related deaths in economically disadvantaged communities, as measured by lower EA. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(5); 736-42. ©2016 AACR . ©2016 American Association for Cancer Research.

Effect of electroacupuncture stimulation on long-term recovery following Achilles tendon rupture in a rat model.

PubMed

Imaeda, Miwa; Hojo, Tatsuya; Kitakoji, Hiroshi; Tanaka, Kazuto; Itoi, Megumi; Inoue, Motohiro

2018-04-19

In this study we examined the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) stimulation on the mechanical strength of the rat Achilles tendon after long-term recovery. Using 20 rats, an Achilles tendon rupture model was created in an invasive manner. The rats were assigned to one of three groups, that received EA treatment (EA group), minimal acupuncture (MA group) or remained untreated (Control group). In the EA group, EA stimulation (5 ms, 50 Hz, 20 µA, 20 min) was applied to the rupture region over a period of 90 days (five times/week). In the MA group, needles were inserted into the same positions as in the EA group but no electrical current was applied. After 90 days the tendon was measured to calculate the cross-sectional area of the rupture region. Then, the mechanical strength of the tendon was measured by tensile testing. No significant differences were observed between the three groups in cross-sectional area of the injured tendon. For maximum breaking strength, the EA group showed a significantly higher threshold compared with the Control group (P<0.05) but not the MA group (P=0.24). No significant difference was seen between the MA group and the Control group (P=0.96). Given the EA group showed a significant increase in maximum breaking strength, it is likely that EA stimulation increases the mechanical strength of a repaired tendon after long-term recovery, and EA stimulation could be useful for preventing re-rupture. © 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.

EEG epileptiform abnormalities at admission to a rehabilitation department predict the risk of seizures in disorders of consciousness following a coma.

PubMed

Bagnato, Sergio; Boccagni, Cristina; Sant'Angelo, Antonino; Prestandrea, Caterina; Virgilio, Vittorio; Galardi, Giuseppe

2016-03-01

Seizures affect about a quarter of patients with disorders of consciousness (DOC) after a coma. We investigated whether the presence of epileptiform abnormalities (EAs) in the electroencephalogram (EEG) of patients with DOC may predict the occurrence of seizures. Moreover, we evaluated whether EAs have a prognostic role in these patients. This was a retrospective single-center cohort study of patients hospitalized between January 2005 and December 2014 in a rehabilitation department (mean time from acute brain injury: 46.1 days). We analyzed 30-minute EEGs at admittance for 112 patients with unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS) or in a minimally conscious state (MCS), then compared occurrence of seizures over the following three months across patients with absent, unilateral, and bilateral EAs (generalized or bilateral independent). Outcomes at three months were assessed in the same groups using the Coma Recovery Scale Revised. Epileptiform abnormalities were observed in 38 patients (33.9%). Of these, 25 were unilateral, and 13 were bilateral. Seizures occurred in 84.6% of patients with bilateral EAs, which was significantly higher than in patients without EAs (10.8%, p<0.001) or with unilateral EAs (24%, p=0.001). The presence of EAs was not related to etiology or different DOC and did not significantly affect outcomes at three months. Patients with EAs at admission to a rehabilitation department have an increased risk of seizures. Specifically, most patients with bilateral EAs had seizures within the following 3 months. Evaluation of EAs in EEGs of patients with DOC may give valuable information in the management of antiepileptic drug treatment. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Most plastic products release estrogenic chemicals: a potential health problem that can be solved.

PubMed

Yang, Chun Z; Yaniger, Stuart I; Jordan, V Craig; Klein, Daniel J; Bittner, George D

2011-07-01

Chemicals having estrogenic activity (EA) reportedly cause many adverse health effects, especially at low (picomolar to nanomolar) doses in fetal and juvenile mammals. We sought to determine whether commercially available plastic resins and products, including baby bottles and other products advertised as bisphenol A (BPA) free, release chemicals having EA. We used a roboticized MCF-7 cell proliferation assay, which is very sensitive, accurate, and repeatable, to quantify the EA of chemicals leached into saline or ethanol extracts of many types of commercially available plastic materials, some exposed to common-use stresses (microwaving, ultraviolet radiation, and/or autoclaving). Almost all commercially available plastic products we sampled--independent of the type of resin, product, or retail source--leached chemicals having reliably detectable EA, including those advertised as BPA free. In some cases, BPA-free products released chemicals having more EA than did BPA-containing products. Many plastic products are mischaracterized as being EA free if extracted with only one solvent and not exposed to common-use stresses. However, we can identify existing compounds, or have developed, monomers, additives, or processing agents that have no detectable EA and have similar costs. Hence, our data suggest that EA-free plastic products exposed to common-use stresses and extracted by saline and ethanol solvents could be cost-effectively made on a commercial scale and thereby eliminate a potential health risk posed by most currently available plastic products that leach chemicals having EA into food products.

Electroacupuncture versus sham electroacupuncture for urinary retention in poststroke patients: study protocol for a multicenter, randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Shin, Seungwon; Lee, Jiwon; Yoo, Junghee; Lim, Sung Min; Lee, Euiju

2016-04-12

This study protocol evaluates the effectiveness of adjuvant electroacupuncture (EA) for urinary retention in poststroke patients undergoing conventional treatments, in comparison with that of a sham control. A multicenter, blinded, randomized controlled trial will be conducted in three hospitals in the Republic of Korea. We are recruiting 54 stroke survivors (aged >19 years), who were diagnosed with urinary retention based on the results of two consecutive post-void residual (PVR) tests, and dividing them randomly into two arms: the EA and Park-sham control groups. They will receive ten sessions of EA or sham treatment for 2 weeks. The participants will be blinded with non-penetrating needles and fake sounds of EA stimulators. The daily PVR ratio will be primarily measured at baseline and at the end of the study to statistically test the effectiveness of EA for poststroke urinary retention. Then, the Korean version of the Qualiveen Questionnaire, the Korean version of the International Prostate Symptom Score, and the blinding index will be assessed. After each EA session or sham EA, adverse events will be reported to evaluate the safety of EA. Results will be analyzed by using the independent t-test or Mann-Whitney U test, based on both intention-to-treat and per-protocol principles. The findings will provide clinical evidence for the effectiveness of EA treatment to improve urinary retention in stroke survivors. This study protocol was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02472288) on 10 June 2015.

Most Plastic Products Release Estrogenic Chemicals: A Potential Health Problem That Can Be Solved

PubMed Central

Yang, Chun Z.; Yaniger, Stuart I.; Jordan, V. Craig; Klein, Daniel J.

2011-01-01

Background: Chemicals having estrogenic activity (EA) reportedly cause many adverse health effects, especially at low (picomolar to nanomolar) doses in fetal and juvenile mammals. Objectives: We sought to determine whether commercially available plastic resins and products, including baby bottles and other products advertised as bisphenol A (BPA) free, release chemicals having EA. Methods: We used a roboticized MCF-7 cell proliferation assay, which is very sensitive, accurate, and repeatable, to quantify the EA of chemicals leached into saline or ethanol extracts of many types of commercially available plastic materials, some exposed to common-use stresses (microwaving, ultraviolet radiation, and/or autoclaving). Results: Almost all commercially available plastic products we sampled—independent of the type of resin, product, or retail source—leached chemicals having reliably detectable EA, including those advertised as BPA free. In some cases, BPA-free products released chemicals having more EA than did BPA-containing products. Conclusions: Many plastic products are mischaracterized as being EA free if extracted with only one solvent and not exposed to common-use stresses. However, we can identify existing compounds, or have developed, monomers, additives, or processing agents that have no detectable EA and have similar costs. Hence, our data suggest that EA-free plastic products exposed to common-use stresses and extracted by saline and ethanol solvents could be cost-effectively made on a commercial scale and thereby eliminate a potential health risk posed by most currently available plastic products that leach chemicals having EA into food products. PMID:21367689

Involvement of MrgprC in Electroacupuncture Analgesia for Attenuating CFA-Induced Thermal Hyperalgesia by Suppressing the TRPV1 Pathway.

PubMed

Liu, Ying-Jun; Lin, Xiao-Xi; Fang, Jian-Qiao; Fang, Fang

2018-01-01

Mas-related G-protein-coupled receptor C (MrgprC) plays an important role in modulating chronic inflammatory pain. Electroacupuncture (EA) has a satisfactory analgesic effect on chronic pain. This study aimed to investigate the involvement of MrgprC and its transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) pathway in EA analgesia in chronic inflammatory pain. Chronic inflammatory pain was induced by subcutaneously injecting complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) into the left hind paw. EA (2/100 Hz) stimulation was administered. MrgprC siRNAs were intrathecally administered to inhibit MrgprC expression, and bovine adrenal medulla 8-22 (BAM8-22) was used to activate MrgprC. The mechanical allodynia was decreased by EA significantly since day 3. The piled analgesic effect of EA was partially blocked by 6 intrathecal administrations of MrgprC siRNA. Both EA and BAM8-22 could downregulate the expression of TRPV1 and PKC in both the DRG and the SCDH. Both EA and BAM8-22 could also decrease the TRPV1 translocation and p-TRPV1 level in both the DRG and the SCDH. The effects of EA on PKC ε , TRPV1 translocation, and p-TRPV1 in both the DRG and the SCDH were reversed by MrgprC siRNA. The results indicated that MrgprC played crucial roles in chronic pain modulation and was involved in EA analgesia partially through the regulation of TRPV1 function at the DRG and SCDH levels.

Quantitative cultures of endotracheal aspirates for the diagnosis of ventilator-associated pneumonia.

PubMed

el-Ebiary, M; Torres, A; González, J; de la Bellacasa, J P; García, C; Jiménez de Anta, M T; Ferrer, M; Rodriguez-Roisin, R

1993-12-01

Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and protected specimen brushing (PSB) are the most commonly used methods for diagnosing ventilator-associated (VA) pneumonia although they require bronchoscopy. Endotracheal aspiration (EA) is a simple and less costly technique than PSB or BAL. The purpose of our study was to investigate the diagnostic value of EA quantitative cultures and to compare the results obtained using EA with those obtained using PSB and BAL in mechanically ventilated patients with or without pneumonia. We prospectively studied 102 intubated patients divided into three diagnostic categories: Group I (definite pneumonia, n = 26), Group II (uncertain status, n = 48), and Group III (control group, n = 28). All patients received prior antibiotic treatment. EA, PSB, and BAL were obtained sequentially in all patients. When comparing Group I with Group III and using 10(5) cfu/ml as a threshold, we found that EA quantitative cultures represented a relatively sensitive (70%) and relatively specific (72%) method to diagnose VA pneumonia. The specificity of BAL and PSB (87% and 93%, respectively) was better than that of EA. The negative predictive value of EA cultures was higher (72%) when compared with that obtained using PSB (34%) (p < 0.05). EA quantitative cultures correlated with PSB and BAL quantitative cultures in patients with definite pneumonia. Although EA quantitative cultures are less specific than PSB and BAL for diagnosing VA pneumonia, our results suggest that the former approach may be used to treat these patients when bronchoscopic procedures are not available.

Congenital esophageal stenosis associated with esophageal atresia.

PubMed

McCann, F; Michaud, L; Aspirot, A; Levesque, D; Gottrand, F; Faure, C

2015-04-01

Congenital esophageal stenosis (CES) is a rare clinical condition but is frequently associated with esophageal atresia (EA). The aim of this study is to report the diagnosis, management, and outcome of CES associated with EA. Medical charts of CES-EA patients from Lille University Hospital, Sainte-Justine Hospital, and Montreal Children's Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Seventeen patients (13 boys) were included. The incidence of CES in patients with EA was 3.6%. Fifteen patients had a type C EA, one had a type A EA, and one had an isolated tracheoesophageal fistula. Seven patients had associated additional malformations. The mean age at diagnosis was 11.6 months. All but two patients had non-specific symptoms such as regurgitations or dysphagia. One CES was diagnosed at the time of surgical repair of EA. In 12 patients, CES was suspected based on abnormal barium swallow. In the remaining four, the diagnostic was confirmed by esophagoscopy. Eleven patients were treated by dilation only (1-3 dilations/patient). Six patients underwent surgery (resection and anastomosis) because of failure of attempted dilations (1-7 dilations/patient). Esophageal perforation was encountered in three patients (18%). Three patients had histologically proven tracheobronchial remnants. CES associated with EA is frequent. A high index of suspicion for CES must remain in the presence of EA. Dilatation may be effective to treat some of them, but perforation is frequent. Surgery may be required, especially in CES secondary to ectopic tracheobronchial remnants. © 2014 International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

Links of the significant wave height distribution in the Mediterranean sea with the Northern Hemisphere teleconnection patterns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lionello, P.; Galati, M. B.

2008-06-01

This study analyzes the link between the SWH (Significant Wave Height) distribution in the Mediterranean Sea during the second half of the 20th century and the Northern Hemisphere SLP (Sea Level Pressure) teleconnection patterns. The SWH distribution is computed using the WAM (WAve Model) forced by the surface wind fields provided by the ERA-40 reanalysis for the period 1958-2001. The time series of mid-latitude teleconnection patterns are downloaded from the NOAA web site. This study shows that several mid-latitude patterns are linked to the SWH field in the Mediterranean, especially in its western part during the cold season: East Atlantic Pattern (EA), Scandinavian Pattern (SCA), North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), East Atlantic/West Russia Pattern (EA/WR) and East Pacific/ North Pacific Pattern (EP/NP). Though the East Atlantic pattern exerts the largest influence, it is not sufficient to characterize the dominant variability. NAO, though relevant, has an effect smaller than EA and comparable to other patterns. Some link results from possibly spurious structures. Patterns which have a very different global structure are associated to similar spatial features of the wave variability in the Mediterranean Sea. These two problems are, admittedly, shortcomings of this analysis, which shows the complexity of the response of the Mediterranean SWH to global scale SLP teleconnection patterns.

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

PubMed

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

2006-05-15

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

Comprehensive evaluation of gene expression signatures in response to electroacupuncture stimulation at Zusanli (ST36) acupoint by transcriptomic analysis.

PubMed

Wu, Jing-Shan; Lo, Hsin-Yi; Li, Chia-Cheng; Chen, Feng-Yuan; Hsiang, Chien-Yun; Ho, Tin-Yun

2017-08-15

Electroacupuncture (EA) has been applied to treat and prevent diseases for years. However, molecular events happened in both the acupunctured site and the internal organs after EA stimulation have not been clarified. Here we applied transcriptomic analysis to explore the gene expression signatures after EA stimulation. Mice were applied EA stimulation at ST36 for 15 min and nine tissues were collected three hours later for microarray analysis. We found that EA affected the expression of genes not only in the acupunctured site but also in the internal organs. EA commonly affected biological networks involved in cytoskeleton and cell adhesion, and also regulated unique process networks in specific organs, such as γ-aminobutyric acid-ergic neurotransmission in brain and inflammation process in lung. In addition, EA affected the expression of genes related to various diseases, such as neurodegenerative diseases in brain and obstructive pulmonary diseases in lung. This report applied, for the first time, a global comprehensive genome-wide approach to analyze the gene expression profiling of acupunctured site and internal organs after EA stimulation. The connection between gene expression signatures, biological processes, and diseases might provide a basis for prediction and explanation on the therapeutic potentials of acupuncture in organs.

Do changes in anal sphincter anatomy correlate with anal function in women with a history of vaginal delivery?

PubMed

Murad-Regadas, Sthela Maria; Dealcanfreitas, Iris Daiana; Regadas, Francisco Sergio Pinheiro; Rodrigues, Lusmar Veras; Fernandes, Graziela Olivia da Silva; Pereira, Jacyara de Jesus Rosa

2014-01-01

To evaluate anal sphincter anatomy using three-dimensional ultrasonography (3-DAUS) in incontinent women with vaginal delivery, correlate anatomical findings with symptoms of fecal incontinence and determine the effect of vaginal delivery on anal canal anatomy and function. Female with fecal incontinence and vaginal delivery were assessed with Wexner's score, manometry, and 3DAUS. A control group comprising asymptomatic nulliparous was included. Anal pressure, the angle of the defect and length of the external anal sphincter (EAS), the anterior and posterior internal anal sphincter (IAS), the EAS + puborectal and the gap were measured and correlated with score. Of the 62, 49 had fecal incontinence and 13 were asymptomatic. Twenty five had EAS defects, 8 had combined EAS+IAS defects, 16 had intact sphincters and continence scores were similar. Subjects with sphincter defects had a shorter anterior EAS, IAS and longer gap than women without defects. Those with a vaginal delivery and intact sphincters had a shorter anterior EAS and longer gap than nulliparous. We found correlations between resting pressure and anterior EAS and IAS length in patients with defects. Fecal incontinence symptoms did not correlate with anal pressures and anal sphincter anatomy changes, but women with sphincter defects have shorter anterior EAS and IAS and a longer gap.

Trajectories of mothers' emotional availability: relations with infant temperament in predicting attachment security.

PubMed

Kim, Bo-Ram; Chow, Sy-Miin; Bray, Bethany; Teti, Douglas M

2017-02-01

The present study examined observations of parenting quality (mothers' emotional availability - EA) during infant bedtimes at 4 points across the infants' first year, assessing relations between levels and trajectories of EA and infant attachment at 12 months and the role of infant temperament in moderating these associations. The sample (N = 128) was predominantly Euro-American (82.5%) and at low socioeconomic risk. Latent growth curve modeling with latent basis coefficients indicated substantial individual differences in initial levels and slopes in EA trajectories across the first year. Both levels of maternal EA and EA trajectories across the first year predicted 12-month infant attachment security. Although maternal EA tended to decrease across the first year in the full sample, EA trajectories that showed a "bounce-back" between 6 and 12 months, suggesting more successful maternal adaptation to an expanding infant developmental repertoire, predicted greater infant security at 12 months. In addition, linkages between latent EA trajectories and 12-month attachment were moderated by 3-month infant temperamental reactivity and regulation. These findings indicate that infant attachment security is sensitive to both static and dynamic aspects of parenting quality across the first year, and that infant temperament can interact with both in predicting infant attachment.

Functionalized Organosilicate Sorbents for Air Purification

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-12-23

Periodic Mesoporous Organosilicas (PMOs): Past, Present, and Future,” J. Nanosci. Nanotech. 6(2), 265-288 (2006). 16. D . Brandhuber , H. Peterlik, and N...tube was unsealed and heated at 60 ºC for 2 d , and then 80 ºC for 2 d . The product in the form of a white monolith was refluxed three times in 1 M HCl...FeDIX EA5 30 415 640 15 11 EuDIX EA5 23 410 660 21 28 ZnDIX EA5 16 410 640 13 48 MgDIX EA5 32 400 680 15 59 CoDIX EA5 35 380 500 N/ D N/ D † Based

48 CFR 252.204-7011 - Alternative Line Item Structure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Unit Unit price Amount 0001 Computer, Desktop with CPU, Monitor, Keyboard and Mouse 20 EA Alternative... Unit Unit Price Amount 0001 Computer, Desktop with CPU, Keyboard and Mouse 20 EA 0002 Monitor 20 EA...

48 CFR 252.204-7011 - Alternative Line Item Structure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Unit Unit price Amount 0001 Computer, Desktop with CPU, Monitor, Keyboard and Mouse 20 EA Alternative... Unit Unit Price Amount 0001 Computer, Desktop with CPU, Keyboard and Mouse 20 EA 0002 Monitor 20 EA...

48 CFR 252.204-7011 - Alternative Line Item Structure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Unit Unit price Amount 0001 Computer, Desktop with CPU, Monitor, Keyboard and Mouse 20 EA Alternative... Unit Unit Price Amount 0001 Computer, Desktop with CPU, Keyboard and Mouse 20 EA 0002 Monitor 20 EA...

48 CFR 252.204-7011 - Alternative Line Item Structure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Unit Unit price Amount 0001 Computer, Desktop with CPU, Monitor, Keyboard and Mouse 20 EA Alternative... Unit Unit Price Amount 0001 Computer, Desktop with CPU, Keyboard and Mouse 20 EA 0002 Monitor 20 EA...

47 CFR 11.61 - Tests of EAS procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... message when transmitting the required weekly test. (3) National tests. (i) All EAS Participants shall... Management Agency (FEMA). Such tests will consist of the delivery by FEMA to PEP/NP stations of a coded EAS...

Hybrid and concatenated coding applications.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hofman, L. B.; Odenwalder, J. P.

1972-01-01

Results of a study to evaluate the performance and implementation complexity of a concatenated and a hybrid coding system for moderate-speed deep-space applications. It is shown that with a total complexity of less than three times that of the basic Viterbi decoder, concatenated coding improves a constraint length 8 rate 1/3 Viterbi decoding system by 1.1 and 2.6 dB at bit error probabilities of 0.0001 and one hundred millionth, respectively. With a somewhat greater total complexity, the hybrid coding system is shown to obtain a 0.9-dB computational performance improvement over the basic rate 1/3 sequential decoding system. Although substantial, these complexities are much less than those required to achieve the same performances with more complex Viterbi or sequential decoder systems.

Study of electrical properties of Sc doped BaFe12O19 ceramic using dielectric, impedance, modulus spectroscopy and AC conductivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gupta, Surbhi; Deshpande, S. K.; Sathe, V. G.; Siruguri, V.

2018-04-01

We present dielectric, complex impedance, modulus spectroscopy and AC conductivity studies of the compound BaFe10Sc2O19 as a function of temperature and frequency to understand the conduction mechanism. The variation in complex dielectric constant with frequency and temperature were analyzed on the basis of Maxwell-Wagner-Koop's theory and charge hopping between ferrous and ferric ions. The complex impedance spectroscopy study shows only grain contribution whereas complex modulus plot shows two semicircular arcs which indicate both grain and grain boundary contributions in conduction mechanism. AC conductivity has also been evaluated which follows the Jonscher's law. The activation energy calculated from temperature dependence of DC conductivity comes out to be Ea˜ 0.31eV.

The genome of the Erwinia amylovora phage PhiEaH1 reveals greater diversity and broadens the applicability of phages for the treatment of fire blight.

PubMed

Meczker, Katalin; Dömötör, Dóra; Vass, János; Rákhely, Gábor; Schneider, György; Kovács, Tamás

2014-01-01

The enterobacterium Erwinia amylovora is the causal agent of fire blight. This study presents the analysis of the complete genome of phage PhiEaH1, isolated from the soil surrounding an E. amylovora-infected apple tree in Hungary. Its genome is 218 kb in size, containing 244 ORFs. PhiEaH1 is the second E. amylovora infecting phage from the Siphoviridae family whose complete genome sequence was determined. Beside PhiEaH2, PhiEaH1 is the other active component of Erwiphage, the first bacteriophage-based pesticide on the market against E. amylovora. Comparative genome analysis in this study has revealed that PhiEaH1 not only differs from the 10 formerly sequenced E. amylovora bacteriophages belonging to other phage families, but also from PhiEaH2. Sequencing of more Siphoviridae phage genomes might reveal further diversity, providing opportunities for the development of even more effective biological control agents, phage cocktails against Erwinia fire blight disease of commercial fruit crops.

Strategic environmental assessment in China: motivations, politics, and effectiveness.

PubMed

Zhu, Da; Ru, Jiang

2008-09-01

This paper examines how strategic environmental assessment has been practiced at the national level in China through 2005 and why it has been practiced in the manner observed. Based on literature reviews and interviews carried out in 2005 and 2006, we find that bureaucratic politics between environmental and nonenvironmental ministries has limited the legislation and implementation of strategic environmental assessment to environmental assessment (EA) for a set of government plans defined in the 2003 Environmental Impact Assessment Law. Interviewees from environmental and nonenvironmental ministries and key research institutes have reported that few planning EAs have been performed at the sectoral level. Nonenvironmental ministries have either evaded the 2003 Environmental Impact Assessment Law and have not undertaken required planning EA or have organized planning EA on their own without participation by the State Environmental Protection Administration. The rising tension between the environmental and nonenvironmental ministries has limited the role of planning EA as a participatory decision-making tool. In addition to bureaucratic politics, we find that weak public participation and underemphasis on social analysis in planning EA may have further compromised the utility of planning EA.

Ethacrynic acid improves the antitumor effects of irreversible epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors in breast cancer.

PubMed

Liu, Bing; Huang, XinPing; Hu, YunLong; Chen, TingTing; Peng, BoYa; Gao, NingNing; Jin, ZhenChao; Jia, TieLiu; Zhang, Na; Wang, ZhuLin; Jin, GuangYi

2016-09-06

Prolonged treatment of breast cancer with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) often results in acquired resistance and a narrow therapeutic index. One strategy to improve the therapeutic effects of EGFR TKIs is to combine them with drugs used for other clinical indications. Ethacrynic acid (EA) is an FDA approved drug that may have antitumor effects and may enhance the cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic agents by binding to glutathione and inhibiting WNT signaling. While the α,β-unsaturated-keto structure of EA is similar to that of irreversible TKIs, the mechanism of action of EA when combined with irreversible EGFR TKIs in breast cancer remains unknown. We therefore investigated the combination of irreversible EGFR TKIs and EA. We found that irreversible EGFR TKIs and EA synergistically inhibit breast cancer both in vitro and in vivo. The combination of EGFR TKIs and EA induces necrosis and cell cycle arrest and represses WNT/β-catenin signaling as well as MAPK-ERK1/2 signaling. We conclude that EA synergistically enhances the antitumor effects of irreversible EGFR TKIs in breast cancer.

The role of experiential avoidance in obsessive-compulsive personality disorder traits.

PubMed

Wheaton, Michael G; Pinto, Anthony

2017-10-01

Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) is one of the most prevalent personality disorders, yet it remains an understudied phenomenon. Experiential avoidance (EA) has been investigated as a factor relevant in many forms of psychopathology, including borderline personality disorder. To date however, no study has yet investigated whether EA might also be relevant to OCPD. We administered a measure of EA and a multidimensional OCPD measure (assessing 5 OCPD trait dimensions and overall severity) to a large community sample (N = 571) as well as a group of individuals with self-identified OCPD features (N = 53). Results revealed that the OCPD group experienced heightened EA relative to the unscreened community sample, even controlling for group differences in distress symptoms. Correlational analyses showed significant relationships between EA and all 5 OCPD trait dimensions and overall severity. Moreover, EA accounted for OCPD traits and severity after controlling for symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Implications for the role of EA in OCPD, including treatment implications, are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Normal exon copy number of the GLI2 and GLI3 genes in patients with esophageal atresia.

PubMed

Bednarczyk, D; Smigiel, R; Patkowski, D; Laczmanska, I; Lebioda, A; Laczmanski, L; Sasiadek, M M

2013-01-01

Esophageal atresia (EA) is a congenital developmental defect of the alimentary tract concerning the interruption of the esophagus with or without connection to the trachea. The incidence of EA is 1 in 3000-3500 of live-born infants, and occurs in both isolated and syndromic (in combination with abnormalities in other organ systems) forms. The molecular mechanisms underlying the development of EA are poorly understood. Knockout studies in mice indicate that genes like Sonic hedgehog, Gli2, and Gli3 play a role in the etiology of EA. These facts led us to hypothesize that Sonic hedgehog-GLI gene rearrangements are associated with EA in humans. To test this hypothesis, we screened patients with isolated and syndromic EA for GLI2 and/or GLI3 microrearrangements using methods to estimate the copy number (Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification, real-time polymerase chain reaction). To our best knowledge this is the first study assessing copy number of GLI2 and GLI3 genes in patients with EA. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

Synthesis, spectroscopic and catalytic properties of some new boron hybrid molecule derivatives by BF2 and BPh2 chelation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kilic, Ahmet; Alcay, Ferhat; Aydemir, Murat; Durgun, Mustafa; Keles, Armagan; Baysal, Akın

2015-05-01

A new series of Schiff base ligands (L1-L3) and their corresponding fluorine/phenyl boron hybrid complexes [LnBF2] and [LnBPh2] (n = 1, 2 or 3) have been synthesized and well characterized by both analytical and spectroscopic methods. The Schiff base ligands and their corresponding fluorine/phenyl boron hybrid complexes have been characterized by NMR (1H, 13C and 19F), FT-IR, UV-Vis, LC-MS, and fluorescence spectroscopy as well as melting point and elemental analysis. The fluorescence efficiencies of phenyl chelate complexes are greatly red-shifted compared to those of the fluorine chelate analogs based on the same ligands, presumably due to the large steric hindrance and hard π → π∗ transition of the diphenyl boron chelation, which can effectively prevent molecular aggregation. The boron hybrid complexes were applied to the transfer hydrogenation of acetophenone derivatives to 1-phenylethanol derivatives in the presence of 2-propanol as the hydrogen source. The catalytic studies showed that boron hybrid complexes are good catalytic precursors for transfer hydrogenation of aromatic ketones in 0.1 M iso-PrOH solution. Also, we have found that both steric and electronic factors have a significant impact on the catalytic properties of this class of molecules.

[Effects of Electroacupunctrue Combined with Dietary Control on Peroxisome Proliferator-activa- ted Receptor-α, and Liver Fatty Acid-binding Protein Levels in Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Rats].

PubMed

Zhang, Yi; Tang, Cheng-lin; Tian, Yuan; Yuan, Hai-zhou; Yang, Hui; Tang, Nian-zhen; Gao, Rui-qi; Cao, Jing

2015-10-01

To observe the effect of electroacupunctrue (EA) intervention or EA combined with dietary control on peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α, and liver fatty acid-binding protein (L-FABP) levels in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) rats, so as to reveal its mechanism underlying improvement of NAFLD. Sixty SD male rats were randomly divided into common diet (control) group (n = 10) and high-fat diet group (n = 45). The NAFLD model was established by feeding the animals with high-fat forage (HFF, including cholesterol, sodium cholate, propylthiouracil, sucrose, lard and common forage) for 5 weeks. Forty NAFLD rats were then randomized into model, EA + HFF, low-fat forage (LFF) and EA+ LFF groups (n = 10 rats in each group). EA (4 Hz/20 Hz, 3 mA) was applied to ipsilateral "Zusanli" (ST 36),"Sanyinjiao" (SP 6) and "Taichong" (LR 3) for 20 min, once daily for 4 weeks. The pathologic changes of the hepatic tissue were detected by H. E. staining. Serum total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) contents were determined by using enzymatic methods, serum free fat acids (FFA) content was detected by colorimetry. The expression levels of PPAR-α and L-FABP protein and gene of the liver tissue were determined by Western blot and RT-PCR, respectively. H. E. staining showed that the hepatocytes presented moderate or severe bullous adipose degeneration in rats of the model group, vesicular steatosis in the EA + HFF and LFF groups, turned to almost normal but with small amount of lipid droplets in the EA + LFF group. The contents of serum TC, TG and FFA were significantly higher in the model group than in the control group (P < 0.05), and were obviously decreased in the EA + HFF, LFF and EA + LFF groups in comparison with the model group (P < 0.05). Compared to the control group, hepatic PPAR-α protein and mRNA were markedly down-regulated in the model group, and hepatic L-FABP protein and mRNA considerably up-regulated in the model group (P < 0.05). Following EA intervention and low fat diet feeding, PPAR-α protein and mRNA were markedly up-regulated while L-FABP protein and mRNA remarkably down-regulated in the EA + HFF, LFF and EA + LFF groups (P < 0.05). EA intervention or EA combined with dietary control can relieve hepatic pathological changes in NAFLD rats, which may be related to its effects in down-regulating blood lipid level and hepatic L-FABP protein and mRNA expression and in up-regulating PPAR-α protein and mRNA expression, and the effect of combined treatment was relatively better than simple EA or LFF treatment.

47 CFR 90.763 - EA, Regional and nationwide system operations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... on a case-by-case basis upon submission by the EA or Regional licensee of: (A) A technical analysis... by a licensee or the Commission, an EA or regional licensee shall furnish the technical parameters...

47 CFR 11.54 - EAS operation during a National Level emergency.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... licensees and DBS providers may choose their two EAS sources, one of which must be a PEP station. (2... header codes for a national emergency. (3) After completing the above transmission procedures, key EAS...

47 CFR 11.54 - EAS operation during a National Level emergency.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... licensees and DBS providers may choose their two EAS sources, one of which must be a PEP station. (2... header codes for a national emergency. (3) After completing the above transmission procedures, key EAS...

Accurate density functional prediction of molecular electron affinity with the scaling corrected Kohn–Sham frontier orbital energies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, DaDi; Yang, Xiaolong; Zheng, Xiao; Yang, Weitao

2018-04-01

Electron affinity (EA) is the energy released when an additional electron is attached to an atom or a molecule. EA is a fundamental thermochemical property, and it is closely pertinent to other important properties such as electronegativity and hardness. However, accurate prediction of EA is difficult with density functional theory methods. The somewhat large error of the calculated EAs originates mainly from the intrinsic delocalisation error associated with the approximate exchange-correlation functional. In this work, we employ a previously developed non-empirical global scaling correction approach, which explicitly imposes the Perdew-Parr-Levy-Balduz condition to the approximate functional, and achieve a substantially improved accuracy for the calculated EAs. In our approach, the EA is given by the scaling corrected Kohn-Sham lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy of the neutral molecule, without the need to carry out the self-consistent-field calculation for the anion.

The impact of extracurricular activities participation on youth delinquent behaviors: An instrumental variables approach.

PubMed

Han, Sehee; Lee, Jonathan; Park, Kyung-Gook

2017-07-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the association between extracurricular activities (EA) participation and youth delinquency while tackling an endogeneity problem of EA participation. Using survey data of 12th graders in South Korea (n = 1943), this study employed an instrumental variables approach to address the self-selection problem of EA participation as the data for this study was based on an observational study design. We found a positive association between EA participation and youth delinquency based on conventional regression analysis. By contrast, we found a negative association between EA participation and youth delinquency based on an instrumental variables approach. These results indicate that caution should be exercised when we interpret the effect of EA participation on youth delinquency based on observational study designs. Copyright © 2017 The Foundation for Professionals in Services for Adolescents. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Experiential Avoidance Mediates the Association between Emotion Regulation Abilities and Loneliness.

PubMed

Shi, Rui; Zhang, Shilei; Zhang, Qianwen; Fu, Shaoping; Wang, Zhenhong

2016-01-01

Experiential avoidance (EA) involves the unwillingness to remain in contact with aversive experiences such as painful feelings, thoughts, and emotions. EA is often associated with the development and maintenance of emotional problems. Since loneliness is characterized by negative emotions such as sadness and pessimism, which is often linked to emotional problems, this study aims to test the mediating effects of EA on the relationship between emotion regulation abilities (ERA) and loneliness in a sample of Chinese adults. Five hundred undergraduates completed questionnaires measuring EA (Acceptance and Action Questionnaire; AAQ-Ⅱ), ERA (Failure-relate action orientation; Action Control Scale, ACS-90) and loneliness (UCLA Loneliness Scale). Structural equation modeling showed that EA fully-mediated the relationship between ERA and loneliness. The findings suggest EA is a key mechanism in explaining why people with high ERA are prone to feeling lower levels of loneliness. In particular, these findings have important implications for designing effective psychological interventions for loneliness.

Antioxidant activities of Vaccinium uliginosum L. extract and its active components.

PubMed

Kim, Young-Hee; Bang, Chae-Young; Won, Eun-Kyung; Kim, Jong-Pyung; Choung, Se-Young

2009-08-01

Vaccinium uliginosum L. (also known as bog bilberry) is a low-growing deciduous shrub classified in the Ericaceae family of plants, which includes numerous Vaccinium berries, blueberries, and cranberries. Berries of the Ericaceae family are known to contain organic acids, vitamins, glycosides, and anthocyanins and have been reported to have antioxidant activity. In order to identify the antioxidative principles of V. uliginosum, we separated water extracts into polyphenol, anthocyanin-rich (pigment), and sugar/acid fractions by using ethyl acetate, acidic methanol (MeOH), and 0.01 N HCl. Antioxidant activities were assessed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), superoxide radical, and hydroxyl radical assays. The crude extract and fractions containing polyphenol and pigment exhibited the greatest antioxidant activities with 50% inhibitory concentration (IC(50)) values of 85.8 microg/mL, 33.2 microg/mL, and 16.7 microg/mL, respectively, for the DPPH assay and 48.1 microg/mL, 83.8 microg/mL, and 51.9 microg/mL for the nonenzymatic superoxide radical assay. The fractions containing polyphenol, pigment, and sugar/acid significantly inhibited xanthine oxidase. To investigate the functional compounds from the active fractions, we purified the polyphenol fraction and separated the compounds by using chromatographic techniques. The crude extract was dissolved in MeOH and further purified by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) using MeOH-water (35:65 vol/vol) (with 0.04% trifluoroacetic acid) to obtain VU-EA-1 (16.6 mg), VU-EA-2 (8.5 mg), VU-EA-3 (19.8 mg), VU-EA-4 (12.8 mg), VU-EA-5 (6.5 mg), and VU-EA-6 (23.5 mg). The MeOH-washed fraction from the HPLC was concentrated and purified by reversed-phase HPLC using MeOH-water (50:50 vol/vol) to give VU-EA-10 (12.4 mg). Antioxidant activity was assessed by DPPH, superoxide radical, and hydroxyl radical assays. The isolated compounds exhibited dose-dependent antioxidant activity with IC(50) values of 7.6 microg/mL (VU-EA-10) for the DPPH assay, 67.8 microg/mL (VU-EA-4) for the nonenzymatic superoxide radical assay, and 3.7 microg/mL (VU-EA-10) and 7.6 microg/ml (VU-EA-6) for the enzymatic superoxide radical assay and 30% inhibitory concentration values of 0.58 microg/mL (VU-EA-1), 0.57 microg/mL (VU-EA-5), and 0.70 microg/mL (VU-EA-6) for the hydroxyl radical assay. In conclusion, V. uliginosum had potent antioxidative activity, and flavonoids were isolated as the main active principles.

Direct Spectroscopic Study of Reconstituted Transcription Complexes Reveals That Intrinsic Termination Is Driven Primarily by Thermodynamic Destabilization of the Nucleic Acid Framework*S

PubMed Central

Datta, Kausiki; von Hippel, Peter H.

2008-01-01

Changes in near UV circular dichroism (CD) and fluorescence spectra of site-specifically placed pairs of 2-aminopurine residues have been used to probe the roles of the RNA hairpin and the RNA-DNA hybrid in controlling intrinsic termination of transcription. Functional transcription complexes were assembled directly by mixing preformed nucleic acid scaffolds of defined sequence with T7 RNA polymerase (RNAP). Scaffolds containing RNA hairpins immediately upstream of a GC-rich hybrid formed complexes of reduced stability, whereas the same hairpins adjacent to a hybrid of rU-dA base pairs triggered complex dissociation and transcript release. 2-Aminopurine probes at the upstream ends of the hairpin stems show that the hairpins open on RNAP binding and that stem re-formation begins after one or two RNA bases on the downstream side of the stem have emerged from the RNAP exit tunnel. Hairpins directly adjacent to the RNA-DNA hybrid weaken RNAP binding, decrease elongation efficiency, and disrupt the upstream end of the hybrid as well as interfere with the movement of the template base at the RNAP active site. Probing the edges of the DNA transcription bubble demonstrates that termination hairpins prevent translocation of the RNAP, suggesting that they transiently “lock” the polymerase to the nucleic acid scaffold and, thus, hold the RNA-DNA hybrid “in frame.” At intrinsic terminators the weak rU-dA hybrid and the adjacent termination hairpin combine to destabilize the elongation complex sufficiently to permit significant transcript release, whereas hairpin-dependent pausing provides time for the process to go to completion. PMID:18070878

Insertion of Ag atoms into layered MoO{sub 3} via a template route

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

Shao, Ke, E-mail: shaoke@szu.edu.cn; Wang, Hao

2012-11-15

Graphical abstract: PVP–Ag{sup +} complex self-assembled with inorganic (Mo{sub x}O{sub y}){sub ∞}{sup n−} chains into a layered hybrid, in which the PVP–Ag complex was intercalated between the (Mo{sub x}O{sub y}){sub ∞}{sup n−} layers. Calcinations of this hybrid at 500 °C lead to formation of Ag/MoO{sub 3} nanohybrid. By this method we have successfully inserted Ag atoms into the semiconductor MoO{sub 3} lattice. Display Omitted Highlights: ► We fabricated a PVP–Ag/polyoxomolybdate layered hybrid via in situ self-assembly. ► The PVP–Ag complex has been inserted between the molybdenum oxide layers. ► This layered hybrid transformed into Ag/MoO{sub 3} nanocomposite after calcinations. ►more » HR-TEM images show that Ag atoms of about 1 nm have been inserted in the MoO{sub 3} layers. -- Abstract: We report insertion of Ag atoms into layered MoO{sub 3} via an in situ template route. PVP–Ag{sup +} complex self-assembled with inorganic (Mo{sub x}O{sub y}){sub ∞}{sup n−} chains into a layered hybrid, in which the PVP–Ag complex was intercalated between the (Mo{sub x}O{sub y}){sub ∞}{sup n−} layers. Calcinations of this hybrid at 500 °C lead to formation of Ag/MoO{sub 3} hybrid, in which Ag nanoparticles of about 1 nm have been inserted between the MoO{sub 3} layers. By this method pillared MoO{sub 3} has been obtained very easily. We believe that this research opens new routes to fabricate novel intercalation compounds and metal/semiconductor nanohybrids via an efficient and green route.« less

An MJO-Mediated Mechanism to Explain ENSO and IOD Impacts on East African Short Rains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaitchik, B. F.; Berhane, F.; Gnanadesikan, A.

2015-12-01

Previous studies have found that the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) have significant impacts on rainfall over East Africa (EA) during the short rains (Oct-Dec). However, not all ENSO and IOD events are associated with significant precipitation anomalies over EA. Our analysis shows that the IOD and ENSO influence EA rainfall by modifying the MJO. Composite analysis of rainfall and outgoing longwave radiation data show that the MJO over the Indian Ocean (phases 2 and 3 of the Wheeler and Hendon index) is associated with significant increase in precipitation over EA during El Niño. In La Niña and non-ENSO years, the MJO over the Indian Ocean has very weak impacts on EA convection and precipitation. Although previous studies have found that El Niño / La Niña events are associated with anomalous wetness/dryness over EA, the associations are not evident in the absence of the MJO. Similarly, the IOD exhibits strong associations with EA precipitation when there is MJO activity over the Indian Ocean. During the positive phase of the IOD, the MJO over the Indian Ocean has impacts that extend to EA. In the absence of the MJO, however, the IOD shows weak associations with EA precipitation. Furthermore, there are more MJO days in the Indian Ocean during El Niño and positive IOD events, which implies stronger impacts on EA. During La Niña events more MJO days are observed in the Pacific Ocean, favoring subsidence over the western Indian Ocean and dry anomalies over EA. These observations suggest two critical MJO-related questions that must be addressed in order to explain EA short rain variability typically attributed to ENSO or IOD: first, how do ENSO and IOD modify background conditions in a way that causes Indian Ocean MJO activity to be more strongly connected to EA under El Niño and IOD positive conditions, and second, why is it that El Niño and IOD positive states slow MJO propagation over the Indian Ocean and speed it over the Pacific? This presentation will review mechanisms consistent with each phenomenon, including changes in lower troposphere wind patterns, upper level mean flow, vorticity gradients associated with ∂2U/∂2y, and zonal temperature gradients affecting the coupling between convection and the induced convergence of moist static energy.

A fast complex integer convolution using a hybrid transform

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reed, I. S.; K Truong, T.

1978-01-01

It is shown that the Winograd transform can be combined with a complex integer transform over the Galois field GF(q-squared) to yield a new algorithm for computing the discrete cyclic convolution of complex number points. By this means a fast method for accurately computing the cyclic convolution of a sequence of complex numbers for long convolution lengths can be obtained. This new hybrid algorithm requires fewer multiplications than previous algorithms.

Electroacupuncture remediates glial dysfunction and ameliorates neurodegeneration in the astrocytic α-synuclein mutant mouse model.

PubMed

Deng, Jiahui; Lv, E; Yang, Jian; Gong, Xiaoli; Zhang, Wenzhong; Liang, Xibin; Wang, Jiazeng; Jia, Jun; Wang, Xiaomin

2015-05-28

The acupuncture or electroacupuncture (EA) shows the therapeutic effect on various neurodegenerative diseases. This effect was thought to be partially achieved by its ability to alleviate existing neuroinflammation and glial dysfunction. In this study, we systematically investigated the effect of EA on abnormal neurochemical changes and motor symptoms in a mouse neurodegenerative disease model. The transgenic mouse which expresses a mutant α-synuclein (α-syn) protein, A53T α-syn, in brain astrocytic cells was used. These mice exhibit extensive neuroinflammatory and motor phenotypes of neurodegenerative disorders. In this study, the effects of EA on these phenotypic changes were examined in these mice. EA improved the movement detected in multiple motor tests in A53T mutant mice. At the cellular level, EA significantly reduced the activation of microglia and prevented the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the midbrain and motor neurons in the spinal cord. At the molecular level, EA suppressed the abnormal elevation of proinflammatory factors (tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β) in the striatum and midbrain of A53T mice. In contrast, EA increased striatal and midbrain expression of a transcription factor, nuclear factor E2-related factor 2, and its downstream antioxidants (heme oxygenase-1 and glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunits). These results suggest that EA possesses the ability to ameliorate mutant α-syn-induced motor abnormalities. This ability may be due to that EA enhances both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities and suppresses aberrant glial activation in the diseased sites of brains.

Incidence and risk factors of emergence agitation in pediatric patients after general anesthesia.

PubMed

Saringcarinkul, Ananchanok; Manchupong, Sithapan; Punjasawadwong, Yodying

2008-08-01

To study the incidence and evaluate factors associated with emergence agitation (EA) in pediatrics after general anesthesia. A prospective observational study was conducted in 250 pediatric patients aged 2-9 years, who received general anesthesia for various operative procedures in Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital between October 2006 and September 2007. The incidence of EA was assessed Difficult parental-separation behavior, pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions, and adverse events were also recorded Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to determine the factors associated with EA. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered significant. One hundred and eight children (43.2%) had EA, with an average duration of 9.6 +/- 6.8 minutes. EA associated with adverse events occurred in 32 agitated children (29.6%). From univariate analysis, factors associated with EA were difficult parental-separation behavior, preschool age (2-5 years), and general anesthesia with sevoflurane. However; difficult parental-separation behavior; and preschool age were the only factors significantly associated with EA in the multiple logistic regression analysis with OR = 3.021 (95% CI = 1.680, 5.431, p < 0.001) and OR = 1.857 (95% CI = 1.075, 3.206, p = 0.026), respectively. The present study indicated that the incidence of EA was high in PACU. Preschool children and difficult parental-separation behavior were the predictive factors of agitation on emergence. Therefore, anesthesia personnel responsible for pediatric anesthesia should have essential skills and knowledge to effectively care for children before, during, and after an operation, including implementing the methods that minimize incidence of EA.

Possible ethnic differences in plasma homocysteine levels associated with coronary artery disease between south Asian and east Asian immigrants.

PubMed

Senaratne, M P; MacDonald, K; De Silva, D

2001-11-01

Hyperhomocysteinemia has been identified as a risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). South Asians appear to have a high incidence of CAD, while East Asians have a very low incidence. The present study was undertaken because the relative association of plasma homocysteine levels (PH) with CAD in South Asians (SA = Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan) and East Asians (EA = Chinese, Japanese) is not known. Fasting PH were drawn on all patients with CAD of SA (age 62.4+/-1.1 years, 72 men, 14 women) and EA (age 61.8+/-3.0 years, 13 men, 4 women) descent. These were compared with PH available from Caucasian (CA) patients (age 61.1+/-1.1 years, 89 men, 17 women) with CAD. The PH in SA, EA, and CA patients were 11.0+/-0.5, 7.6+/-0.5, and 10.8+/-0.6 micromol/l, respectively (p<0.001 between EA and SA/CA). Percentages of SA, EA, and CA with elevated PH (> 12.0 micromol/l) were 33.7, 5.9, and 28.2%, respectively. There were no significant differences in the lipid subfractions between the SA and EA group. History of smoking was significantly higher in the EA (52.9 vs. 26.2%), while hypertension and diabetes mellitus had similar prevalences. Significant differences in PH of SA versus EA patients with CAD exist. The relative contribution of homocysteine in the development of CAD appears to be less in EA immigrants. In contrast, the association between CAD and PH in SA immigrants appears to be similar to that of Caucasians.

Sperm Chromatin Immaturity Observed in Short Abstinence Ejaculates Affects DNA Integrity and Longevity In Vitro

PubMed Central

Salian, Sujith Raj; Kumar, Dayanidhi; Singh, Vikram Jeet; D’Souza, Fiona; Kalthur, Guruprasad; Kamath, Asha; Adiga, Satish Kumar

2016-01-01

Background The influence of ejaculatory abstinence (EA) on semen parameters and subsequent reproductive outcome is still debatable; hence understanding the impact of EA on sperm structural and functional integrity may provide a valuable information on predicting successful clinical outcome. Objective To understand the influence of EA on sperm chromatin maturity, integrity, longevity and global methylation status. Methods This experimental prospective study included 76 ejaculates from 19 healthy volunteers who provided ejaculates after observing 1, 3, 5 and 7 days of abstinence. Sperm chromatin maturity, DNA integrity and global methylation status were assessed in the neat ejaculate. Sperm motility, DNA integrity and longevity were assessed in the processed fraction of the fresh and frozen-thawed ejaculates to determine their association with the length of EA. Results Spermatozoa from 1 day ejaculatory abstinence (EA-1) displayed significantly higher level of sperm chromatin immaturity in comparison to EA-3 (P < 0.05) and EA-5 (P < 0.01) whereas; the number of 5-methyl cytosine immunostained spermatozoa did not vary significantly across groups. On the other hand, in vitro incubation of processed ejaculate from EA-1 resulted in approximately 20 and 40 fold increase in the DNA fragmented spermatozoa at the end of 6 and 24h respectively (P < 0.01–0.001). Conclusion Use of short-term EA for therapeutic fertilization would be a clinically valuable strategy to improve the DNA quality. However, use of such spermatozoa after prolonged incubation in vitro should be avoided as it can carry a substantial risk of transmitting DNA fragmentation to the oocytes. PMID:27043437

Lutzomyia Longipalpis is a Species Complex: Genetic Divergence and Interspecific Hybrid Sterility Among Three Populations

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-01-01

FUNDING NUMBERS Lutzomyia Longipalpis is a Species Complex:Genetic Divergence and Interspecific Hybrid Sterility Among Three 6. AUTHOR(S) Populations...genus Lutzomyia . Between 7% and 22% of the loci studied were diagnostic for any two of the colony,-populations. Experimental hybridization between...our results to natural populations. 14. SUBJECT TERMS UES 1S. NUMBER Of PAGlE Lutzomyia longipalpis, Leishmania donovani chagasi 16. PRICE CODE 17

47 CFR 11.54 - EAS operation during a National Level emergency.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... emergency, EAS Participants may transmit in lieu of the EAS audio feed an audio feed of the President's voice message from an alternative source, such as a broadcast network audio feed. [77 FR 16705, Mar. 22...

47 CFR 11.54 - EAS operation during a National Level emergency.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... emergency, EAS Participants may transmit in lieu of the EAS audio feed an audio feed of the President's voice message from an alternative source, such as a broadcast network audio feed. [77 FR 16705, Mar. 22...

47 CFR 11.54 - EAS operation during a National Level emergency.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... emergency, EAS Participants may transmit in lieu of the EAS audio feed an audio feed of the President's voice message from an alternative source, such as a broadcast network audio feed. [77 FR 16705, Mar. 22...

47 CFR 90.761 - EA and Regional licenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Regional licenses. (a) EA licenses for spectrum blocks listed in Table 2 of § 90.721(b) are available in 175 Economic Areas (EAs) as defined in § 90.7. (b) Regional licenses for spectrum blocks listed in...

47 CFR 90.761 - EA and Regional licenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Regional licenses. (a) EA licenses for spectrum blocks listed in Table 2 of § 90.721(b) are available in 175 Economic Areas (EAs) as defined in § 90.7. (b) Regional licenses for spectrum blocks listed in...

47 CFR 90.761 - EA and Regional licenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Regional licenses. (a) EA licenses for spectrum blocks listed in Table 2 of § 90.721(b) are available in 175 Economic Areas (EAs) as defined in § 90.7. (b) Regional licenses for spectrum blocks listed in...

Epidural analgesia during labour, routinely or on request: a cost-effectiveness analysis.

PubMed

Bonouvrié, Kimberley; van den Bosch, Anouk; Roumen, Frans J M E; van Kuijk, Sander M; Nijhuis, Jan G; Evers, Silvia M A A; Wassen, Martine M L H

2016-12-01

To assess the cost-effectiveness of routine labour epidural analgesia (EA), from a societal perspective, as compared with labour analgesia on request. Women delivering of a singleton in cephalic presentation beyond 36+0 weeks' gestation were randomly allocated to routine labour EA or analgesia on request in one university and one non-university teaching hospital in the Netherlands. Costs included all medical, non-medical and indirect costs from randomisation to 6 weeks postpartum. Effectiveness was defined as a non-operative, spontaneous vaginal delivery without EA-related maternal adverse effects. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was defined as the ratio of the difference in costs and the difference in effectiveness between both groups. Data were analysed according to intention to treat and divided into a base case analysis and a sensitivity analysis. Total delivery costs in the routine EA group (n=233) were higher than in the labour on request group (n=255) (difference -€ 322, 95% CI -€ 60 to € 355) due to more medication costs (including EA), a longer stay in the labour ward, and more operations including caesarean sections. Total postpartum hospital costs in the routine EA group were lower (difference -€ 344, 95% CI -€ 1338 to € 621) mainly due to less neonatal admissions (difference -€ 472, 95% CI -€ 1297 to € 331), whereas total postpartum home and others costs were comparable (difference -€ 20, 95% CI -€ 267 to € 248, and -€ 1, 95% CI -€ 67 to € 284, respectively). As a result, the overall mean costs per woman were comparable between the routine EA group and the analgesia on request group (€ 8.708 and € 8.710, respectively, mean difference -€ 2, 95% CI -€ 1.012 to € 916). Routine labour EA resulted in more deliveries with maternal adverse effects, nevertheless the ICER remained low (€ 8; bootstrap 95% CI -€ 6.120 to € 8.659). The cost-effectiveness acceptability curve indicated a low probability that routine EA is cost-effective. Routine labour EA generates comparable costs as analgesia on request, but results in more operative deliveries and more EA-related maternal adverse effects. Based on cost-effectiveness, no preference can be given to routine labour EA as compared with analgesia on request. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Estrogenic chemicals often leach from BPA-free plastic products that are replacements for BPA-containing polycarbonate products.

PubMed

Bittner, George D; Yang, Chun Z; Stoner, Matthew A

2014-05-28

Xenobiotic chemicals with estrogenic activity (EA), such as bisphenol A (BPA), have been reported to have potential adverse health effects in mammals, including humans, especially in fetal and infant stages. Concerns about safety have caused many manufacturers to use alternatives to polycarbonate (PC) resins to make hard and clear, reusable, plastic products that do not leach BPA. However, no study has focused on whether such BPA-free PC-replacement products, chosen for their perceived higher safety, especially for babies, also release other chemicals that have EA. We used two, well-established, mammalian cell-based, assays (MCF-7 and BG1Luc) to assess the EA of chemicals that leached into over 1000 saline or ethanol extracts of 50 unstressed or stressed (autoclaving, microwaving, and UV radiation) BPA-free PC-replacement products. An EA antagonist, ICI 182,780, was used to confirm that agonist activity in leachates was due to chemicals that activated the mammalian estrogen receptor. Many unstressed and stressed, PC-replacement-products made from acrylic, polystyrene, polyethersulfone, and Tritan™ resins leached chemicals with EA, including products made for use by babies. Exposure to various forms of UV radiation often increased the leaching of chemicals with EA. In contrast, some BPA-free PC-replacement products made from glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate or cyclic olefin polymer or co-polymer resins did not release chemicals with detectable EA under any conditions tested. This hazard assessment survey showed that many BPA-free PC- replacement products still leached chemicals having significant levels of EA, as did BPA-containing PC counterparts they were meant to replace. That is, BPA-free did not mean EA-free. However, this study also showed that some PC-replacement products did not leach chemicals having significant levels of EA. That is, EA-free PC-replacement products could be made in commercial quantities at prices that compete with PC-replacement products that were not BPA-free. Since plastic products often have advantages (price, weight, shatter-resistance, etc.) compared to other materials such as steel or glass, it is not necessary to forgo those advantages to avoid release into foodstuffs or the environment of chemicals having EA that may have potential adverse effects on our health or the health of future generations.

Estrogenic chemicals often leach from BPA-free plastic products that are replacements for BPA-containing polycarbonate products

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Xenobiotic chemicals with estrogenic activity (EA), such as bisphenol A (BPA), have been reported to have potential adverse health effects in mammals, including humans, especially in fetal and infant stages. Concerns about safety have caused many manufacturers to use alternatives to polycarbonate (PC) resins to make hard and clear, reusable, plastic products that do not leach BPA. However, no study has focused on whether such BPA-free PC-replacement products, chosen for their perceived higher safety, especially for babies, also release other chemicals that have EA. Methods We used two, well-established, mammalian cell-based, assays (MCF-7 and BG1Luc) to assess the EA of chemicals that leached into over 1000 saline or ethanol extracts of 50 unstressed or stressed (autoclaving, microwaving, and UV radiation) BPA-free PC-replacement products. An EA antagonist, ICI 182,780, was used to confirm that agonist activity in leachates was due to chemicals that activated the mammalian estrogen receptor. Results Many unstressed and stressed, PC-replacement-products made from acrylic, polystyrene, polyethersulfone, and Tritan™ resins leached chemicals with EA, including products made for use by babies. Exposure to various forms of UV radiation often increased the leaching of chemicals with EA. In contrast, some BPA-free PC-replacement products made from glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate or cyclic olefin polymer or co-polymer resins did not release chemicals with detectable EA under any conditions tested. Conclusions This hazard assessment survey showed that many BPA-free PC- replacement products still leached chemicals having significant levels of EA, as did BPA-containing PC counterparts they were meant to replace. That is, BPA-free did not mean EA-free. However, this study also showed that some PC-replacement products did not leach chemicals having significant levels of EA. That is, EA-free PC-replacement products could be made in commercial quantities at prices that compete with PC-replacement products that were not BPA-free. Since plastic products often have advantages (price, weight, shatter-resistance, etc.) compared to other materials such as steel or glass, it is not necessary to forgo those advantages to avoid release into foodstuffs or the environment of chemicals having EA that may have potential adverse effects on our health or the health of future generations. PMID:24886603

The unrestricted local properties: application in nanoelectronics and for predicting radicals reactivity.

PubMed

Dral, Pavlo O

2014-03-01

The local electron affinity (EA(L)) and the local ionization energy (IE(L)) are successfully used for predicting properties of closed-shell species for drug design and for nanoelectronics. Here the respective unrestricted Hartree-Fock variants of EA(L) and IE(L), i.e., the unrestricted local electron affinity (UHF-EA(L)) and ionization energy (UHF-IE(L)), have been shown to be useful for predicting properties of open-shell species. UHF-EA(L) and UHF-IE(L) have been applied for explaining unique electronic properties of an exemplary nanomaterial carbon peapod. It is also demonstrated that UHF-EA(L) is useful for predicting and better understanding reactivity of radicals related to alkanes activation.

[Effect of Electroacupuncture on Cerebro-cortex Caspase-3 Expression and Blood Lipid Levels in Hyperlipemia Rats with Cerebral Ischemia].

PubMed

Wang, Zhuo-Yu; Ma, Jia-Jia; Guan, Han-Yu; Tian, Yao; Ren, Xiu-Jun; Ma, Hui-Fang

2017-04-25

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) stimulation of "Fenglong" (ST 40), "Sanyinjiao" (SP 6) plus manual acupuncture (MA) stimulation of "Shuigou" (GV 26) and "Baihui" (GV 20) on Caspase-3 protein expression in the cerebral cortex of rats with hyperlipemia and cerebral ischemia(HL-CI),so as to reveal its mechanisms underlying improvement of HL-CI. Forty-five rats were randomly divided into normal control,sham operation,model,EA group I(EA+MA was given for 14 days, i.e., 7 days before CI, and 7 days more after HL-CI)and EA group Ⅱ (EA+MA was given for only 7 days after HL-CI),with 9 rats being in each group. The HL-CI model was established by feeding the animals with high fat forage for 6 weeks and then making an occlusion of the unilateral middle cerebral artery by regional application of quantitative paper adsorbing 50% FeCl 3 solution (10 μL). Rats of the sham operation group were treated with the same procedures only without application of FeCl 3 solution. For rats of the EA group I,EA (1-3 mA, 2 Hz/100 Hz) was applied to bilateral acupoints SP 6 and ST 40 (for 20 min),and MA stimulation applied to GV 26 and GV 20. EA was conducted once daily for 7 days after 6 weeks' high fat fo-rage feeding, and EA+MA intervention was conducted once daily for 7 days after CI modeling. For rats in the EA group Ⅱ, EA+MA was applied to the same 4 acupoints once a day for 7 days only after CI modeling. The neurological impairment was assessed by Zea Longa's scoring. The blood sample was taken from the abdominal aorta for measuring the contents of serum cholesterol (CHO),triglyceride (TG) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Pathological changes of the cerebral cortex were observed after H.E. staining, and the expression of cerebro-cortex Caspase-3 was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Following modeling,the neurological score,CHO, TG and LDL-C contents, and the number of Caspase-3 positive cells as well as Caspase-3 immunoactivity level were significantly increased in the model group( P <0.05), while serum HDL-C level was obviously decreased( P <0.05). After the treatment,the increased neurological score, CHO, TG and LDL-C contents, and the number of Caspase-3 positive cells and Caspase-3 immunoactivity level were considerably decreased in the EA group I and Ⅱ( P <0.05)while the decreased HDL-C level was notably increased relevant to the model group( P <0.05). The effects of the EA group I were notably superior to those of EA group Ⅱ in down-regulating the neurological score,CHO, TG and LDL-C levels and the expression of Caspase-3 protein( P <0.05). No significant differences were found between the normal control and sham operation groups in the neurological scores 20 min and 7 days after modeling and Caspase-3 expression levels ( P >0.05). H.E. staining showed a reduction of the apoptotic cells and inflammatory cells in both EA group I and Ⅱ. Both EA and EA+MA interventions can improve neurological function in HL-CI rats,which may be related to their effects in adjusting the levels of serum lipids and down-regulating the expression of cell apoptosis-related Caspase-3 protein in the ischemic cortex. Moreover, the cerebral ischemia injury may be lightened by EA-lowering hyperlipemia first.

SiSeRHMap v1.0: a simulator for mapped seismic response using a hybrid model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grelle, Gerardo; Bonito, Laura; Lampasi, Alessandro; Revellino, Paola; Guerriero, Luigi; Sappa, Giuseppe; Guadagno, Francesco Maria

2016-04-01

The SiSeRHMap (simulator for mapped seismic response using a hybrid model) is a computerized methodology capable of elaborating prediction maps of seismic response in terms of acceleration spectra. It was realized on the basis of a hybrid model which combines different approaches and models in a new and non-conventional way. These approaches and models are organized in a code architecture composed of five interdependent modules. A GIS (geographic information system) cubic model (GCM), which is a layered computational structure based on the concept of lithodynamic units and zones, aims at reproducing a parameterized layered subsoil model. A meta-modelling process confers a hybrid nature to the methodology. In this process, the one-dimensional (1-D) linear equivalent analysis produces acceleration response spectra for a specified number of site profiles using one or more input motions. The shear wave velocity-thickness profiles, defined as trainers, are randomly selected in each zone. Subsequently, a numerical adaptive simulation model (Emul-spectra) is optimized on the above trainer acceleration response spectra by means of a dedicated evolutionary algorithm (EA) and the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm (LMA) as the final optimizer. In the final step, the GCM maps executor module produces a serial map set of a stratigraphic seismic response at different periods, grid solving the calibrated Emul-spectra model. In addition, the spectra topographic amplification is also computed by means of a 3-D validated numerical prediction model. This model is built to match the results of the numerical simulations related to isolate reliefs using GIS morphometric data. In this way, different sets of seismic response maps are developed on which maps of design acceleration response spectra are also defined by means of an enveloping technique.

Sixth Fleet Combat Stores Ship Resupply Model

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-03-01

Jumbo Block BR 0.25 288 0.98 0021 Fruit Chewies PG 0.25 360 1.08 0022 Nestles Crunch BR 0.25 360 0.78 0023 Kit Kat BR 0.25 432 1.55 0131 Cashews EA...2.33 12 0.27 0132 Mixed Peanuts EA 1.28 12 0.27 0133 Peanuts EA 0.78 12 0.27 0134 Spanish Nuts EA 0.78 12 0.36 0151 Baked Beans CN 0.28 24 0.40 0152

Identifying Areas of Potential Wetland Hydrology in Irrigated Croplands Using Aerial Image Interpretation and Analysis of Rainfall Normality

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-01

engineering and environmental challenges. ERDC develops innovative solutions in civil and military engineering, geospatial sciences, water resources, and... tte rn o f p ea ks , i nd ic at in g th e we t p or tio n of ea ch y ea r, fo llo we d by a s ha rp d ec lin e in to th e dr y s ea so

Molecular and physiological properties of bacteriophages from North America and Germany affecting the fire blight pathogen Erwinia amylovora

PubMed Central

Müller, Ina; Lurz, Rudi; Kube, Michael; Quedenau, Claudia; Jelkmann, Wilhelm; Geider, Klaus

2011-01-01

Summary For possible control of fire blight affecting apple and pear trees, we characterized Erwinia amylovora phages from North America and Germany. The genome size determined by electron microscopy (EM) was confirmed by sequence data and major coat proteins were identified from gel bands by mass spectroscopy. By their morphology from EM data, φEa1h and φEa100 were assigned to the Podoviridae and φEa104 and φEa116 to the Myoviridae. Host ranges were essentially confined to E. amylovora, strains of the species Erwinia pyrifoliae, E. billingiae and even Pantoea stewartii were partially sensitive. The phages φEa1h and φEa100 were dependent on the amylovoran capsule of E. amylovora, φEa104 and φEa116 were not. The Myoviridae efficiently lysed their hosts and protected apple flowers significantly better than the Podoviridae against E. amylovora and should be preferred in biocontrol experiments. We have also isolated and partially characterized E. amylovora phages from apple orchards in Germany. They belong to the Podoviridae or Myoviridae with a host range similar to the phages isolated in North America. In EM measurements, the genome sizes of the Podoviridae were smaller than the genomes of the Myoviridae from North America and from Germany, which differed from each other in corresponding nucleotide sequences. PMID:21791029

Relationships among Stress, Experiential Avoidance and Depression in Psychiatric Patients.

PubMed

Rueda, Beatriz; Valls, Esperanza

2016-05-23

This study investigated the specific association of stressful life events (SLE) and experiential avoidance (EA) with depression in patients with mental disorders. It also analyzed the possible mediating role of depression in the relation of EA to well-being and life satisfaction. A total of 147 patients (mean age = 40.16 years) diagnosed with anxiety, mood or adjustment disorder were recruited from a mental health centre. They completed measures of SLE, EA, depression, well-being and life satisfaction. Regression analyses showed that SLE and EA were positively related to depression (R 2 = .45), although the contribution made by EA was higher (β = .61, p < .001) than the one made by SLE (β = .19, p < .01). Bootstrap mediation analyses revealed that there was an indirect effect from EA to physical well-being (B = -4.52, SE = .70, p < .001, 95% CI [-6.03, -3.20]) and satisfaction (B = -.14, SE = .02, p < .001, 95%, CI [-.19 -.09]) through depression. This indirect effect was less consistently supported with respect to emotional well-being (B = -3.33, SE = .48, p < .001, 95%, CI [-4.30, -2.41]). These findings give support to the hypothesis that EA could be an important factor contributing to depression in patients with mental disorders. The results also provide evidence that depression seems to play an important mediational role when considering the negative impact that EA exerts on patients´ well-being and satisfaction.

Quantitative and qualitative transcriptome analysis of four industrial strains of Claviceps purpurea with respect to ergot alkaloid production.

PubMed

Majeská Čudejková, Mária; Vojta, Petr; Valík, Josef; Galuszka, Petr

2016-09-25

The fungus Claviceps purpurea is a biotrophic phytopathogen widely used in the pharmaceutical industry for its ability to produce ergot alkaloids (EAs). The fungus attacks unfertilized ovaries of grasses and forms sclerotia, which represent the only type of tissue where the synthesis of EAs occurs. The biosynthetic pathway of EAs has been extensively studied; however, little is known concerning its regulation. Here, we present the quantitative transcriptome analysis of the sclerotial and mycelial tissues providing a comprehensive view of transcriptional differences between the tissues that produce EAs and those that do not produce EAs and the pathogenic and non-pathogenic lifestyle. The results indicate metabolic changes coupled with sclerotial differentiation, which are likely needed as initiation factors for EA biosynthesis. One of the promising factors seems to be oxidative stress. Here, we focus on the identification of putative transcription factors and regulators involved in sclerotial differentiation, which might be involved in EA biosynthesis. To shed more light on the regulation of EA composition, whole transcriptome analysis of four industrial strains differing in their alkaloid spectra was performed. The results support the hypothesis proposing the composition of the amino acid pool in sclerotia to be an important factor regulating the final structure of the ergopeptines produced by Claviceps purpurea. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Ad-IRF-1 Induces Apoptosis in Esophageal Adenocarcinoma

PubMed Central

Stang, Michael T; Armstrong, Michaele J; Gooding, William E; Kuan, Shih-Fan; Yim, John H; Hughes, Steven J

2006-01-01

Abstract The nuclear transcription factor interferon regulatory factor-1 (IRF-1) is a putative tumor suppressor, but the expression and function of IRF-1 in esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA) remain unknown. We hypothesized that IRF-1 expression was reduced or lost in EA and that restoration of IRF-1 would result in the apoptosis of EA cells in vitro and the inhibition of tumor growth in vivo. Three EA cell lines were used to examine IRF-1 expression, IFN-γ responsiveness, and the effects of IRF-1 overexpression using a recombinant adenoviral vector (Ad-IRF-1). All three EA cell lines produced IRF-1 protein following IFN-γ stimulation, although IFN-γ did not induce cell death. In contrast, Ad-IRF-1 infection resulted in high levels of IRF-1 protein and triggered apoptosis in all three EA cell lines. Potential mechanisms for the differential response to IFN-γ versus Ad-IRF-1—such as modulation of c-Met or extracellular regulated kinase signaling, or altered expression of IRF-2, Fas, or survivin—were investigated, but none of these mechanisms can account for this observation. In vivo administration of IRF-1 in a murine model of EA modestly inhibited tumor growth, but did not lead to tumor regression. Strategies aimed at increasing or restoring IRF-1 expression may have therapeutic benefits in EA. PMID:16533423

[A prospective cohort study of the risk factors of emergence agitation in pediatric after general anesthesia].

PubMed

Fan, Hao; Tao, Fan; Wan, Hai-fang; Luo, Hong

2012-05-08

To evaluate risk factors associated with emergence agitation (EA) in pediatrics after general anesthesia. A prospective cohort study was conducted in 268 pediatric patients aged 2-9 years, who received general anesthesia for various operative procedures in our hospital between January 2008 and October 2011. The incidence of EA was assessed. Difficult parental-separation behavior, pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions, and adverse events were also recorded. Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to determine the factors associated with EA. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered significant. One hundred and sixteen children (43.3%) had EA, with an average duration of 9.1 ± 6.6 minutes. EA associated with adverse events occurred in 35 agitated children (30.2%). From univariate analysis, factors associated with EA were difficult parental-separation behavior, preschool age (2 - 5 years), and general anesthesia with sevoflurane. However, difficult parental-separation behavior, and preschool age were the only factors significantly associated with EA in the multiple Logistic regression analysis with OR = 3.091 (95%CI: 1.688, 5.465, P < 0.01) and OR = 1.965 (95%CI: 1.112, 3.318, P = 0.024), respectively. The present study indicated that the incidence of EA was high in PACU. Preschool children and difficult parental-separation behavior were the predictive factors of emergence agitation.

The molecular mechanism of the termination of insect diapause, part 1: A timer protein, TIME-EA4, in the diapause eggs of the silkworm Bombyx mori is a metallo-glycoprotein.

PubMed

Isobe, Minoru; Kai, Hidenori; Kurahashi, Takuya; Suwan, Sathorn; Pitchayawasin-Thapphasaraphong, Suthasinee; Franz, Thomas; Tani, Naoki; Higashi, Kenichiro; Nishida, Hideo

2006-10-01

TIME-EA4 is an ATPase that measures time intervals, functioning as a diapause duration clock in diapause eggs of the silkworm, Bombyx mori. Characterization of the primary and higher structures of the TIME-EA4 would be desirable to clarify the mechanism by which the protein measures the time intervals. In our current studies, the whole sequence of TIME-EA4 has been established as that of a metallo-glycoprotein by combinational means involving peptide sequence analysis, nano-HPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS and MS/MS, and cDNA dictation. The amino acid sequence of TIME-EA4 showed 46-55 % homology with the reported proteins of the Cu,Zn-SOD (superoxide dismutase) family; in particular, the SOD active site (core domain) includes metal-binding amino acid ligands and a disulfide bond, and these structures are completely identical in Bombyx SOD, bovine SOD, and TIME-EA4 proteins. We found, however, that TIME-EA4 contains one more copper ion than other SODs, as was proven under neutral nondenaturing conditions. ESI mass spectrometry revealed that the timer function was not in the SOD core domain. In addition, TIME-EA4 has an attached sugar chain, which is indispensable to its functioning as a timer protein.

Increased cardiogenesis in P19-GFP teratocarcinoma cells expressing the propeptide IGF-1Ea

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

Poudel, Bhawana; Bilbao, Daniel; Sarathchandra, Padmini

2011-12-16

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer In this study, we explored the function of IGF-1Ea propeptide in inducing cardiogenesis of stem cells. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer IGF-1Ea promoted cardiac mesodermal induction in uncommitted cells. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Under differentiation condition, IGF-1Ea increased expression of cardiac differentiation markers. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Furthermore, it promoted formation of finely organized sarcomeric structure. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer IGF-1Ea propeptide may be a good candidate to improve production of cardiomyocytes from pluripotent cells. -- Abstract: The mechanism implicated in differentiation of endogenous cardiac stem cells into cardiomyocytes to regenerate the heart tissue upon an insult remains elusive, limiting the therapeutical goals to exogenous cell injection and/or gene therapy. Wemore » have shown previously that cardiac specific overexpression of the insulin-like growth factor 1 propeptide IGF-1Ea induces beneficial myocardial repair after infarct. Although the mechanism is still under investigation, the possibility that this propeptide may be involved in promoting stem cell differentiation into the cardiac lineage has yet to be explored. To investigate whether IGF-1Ea promote cardiogenesis, we initially modified P19 embryonal carcinoma cells to express IGF-1Ea. Taking advantage of their cardiomyogenic nature, we analyzed whether overexpression of this propeptide affected cardiac differentiation program. The data herein presented showed for the first time that constitutively overexpressed IGF-1Ea increased cardiogenic differentiation program in both undifferentiated and DMSO-differentiated cells. In details, IGF-1Ea overexpression promoted localization of alpha-actinin in finely organized sarcomeric structure compared to control cells and upregulated the cardiac mesodermal marker NKX-2.5 and the ventricular structural protein MLC2v. Furthermore, activated IGF-1 signaling promoted cardiac mesodermal induction in undifferentiated cells independently of cell proliferation. This analysis suggests that IGF-1Ea may be a good candidate to improve both in vitro production of cardiomyocytes from pluripotent stem cells and in vivo activation of the differentiation program of cardiac progenitor cells.« less

Early antibiotic treatment for BAL-confirmed ventilator-associated pneumonia: a role for routine endotracheal aspirate cultures.

PubMed

Michel, Fabrice; Franceschini, Bruno; Berger, Pierre; Arnal, Jean-Michel; Gainnier, Marc; Sainty, Jean-Marie; Papazian, Laurent

2005-02-01

To test whether routine quantitative cultures of endotracheal aspirates obtained before the onset of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) could help to predict the causative microorganisms and to select early appropriate antimicrobial therapy before obtaining BAL culture results. Prospective observational study. French medical ICU. A total of 299 patients received mechanical ventilation for at least 48 h. Endotracheal aspiration (EA) was performed twice weekly in all mechanically ventilated patients. A diagnosis of VAP was made by BAL culture. Only the EA performed just before the suspicion of VAP (EA-pre) were evaluated. This strategy (ie, the EA-pre-based strategy) was compared with an antibiotic therapy that would have been prescribed if the recommendations of both the American Thoracic Society (ATS) and Trouillet et al (Am J Respir Crit Care Med 1998; 157:531-539) had been applied. VAP was diagnosed (by BAL culture) in 41 of the 75 patients in whom BAL was performed. Among the 41 BAL specimens that were positive for VAP, EA-pre had identified the same microorganisms (with the same antibiotic resistance patterns) in 34 cases (83%). In one case, EA-pre was not available at the time BAL was performed (a case of early-onset VAP), but the empiric antibiotic therapy was adequate. While EA-pre did not give the same results as the BAL culture, the antibiotic therapy based on the results of the EA-pre was adequate in four other cases. Finally, antibiotic therapy was delayed in only two cases. Antibiotic treatment was therefore adequate in 38 of the 40 assessable cases (95%). If the Trouillet-based strategy had been used, the antibiotic treatment would have been adequate in 34 of the 41 cases (83%; p = 0.15 [vs EA-pre strategy]). Based on the ATS classification, the antibiotic treatment would have been adequately prescribed in only 28 of the 41 cases (68%; p = 0.005 [vs EA-pre strategy]). Routine EA performed twice a week makes it possible to prescribe adequate antibiotic therapy (while waiting for BAL culture results) in 95% of the patients in whom a VAP is ultimately diagnosed by BAL culture.

Downregulation of the spinal NMDA receptor NR2B subunit during electro-acupuncture relief of chronic visceral hyperalgesia.

PubMed

Liu, Hongping; Zhang, Yuhua; Qi, Debo; Li, Weimin

2017-01-01

The involvement of spinal NR2B, a N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subunit, in the therapeutic effect of electro-acupuncture (EA) on chronic visceral hyperalgesia was investigated. Chronic visceral hyperalgesia was induced using an irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) model in rats. Graded colorectal distention (CRD) stimuli at strengths of 20, 40, 60 and 80 mmHg were applied, and behavioral tests were performed to measure the abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR) in response to the CRD stimuli and assess the severity of the visceral hyperalgesia. Rats were randomly divided into four groups: normal intact (control) group, IBS model (model) group, EA-treated IBS rats (EA) group and sham EA-treated IBS rats (sham EA) group. For the EA treatment, electric stimuli were applied through needles inserted into two acupoints [Zu-san-li (ST-36) and Shang-ju-xu (ST-37)] in both hind limbs, while the sham EA treatment consisted of only the insertion of needles into these same acupoints without an application of electric stimuli. Our results showed that AWR scores of the model group responding to CRD stimuli of 20, 40, 60 and 80 mmHg were significantly increased. These increased scores subsequently decreased following EA treatment (P < 0.05) compared with those for the other groups. The expression of NR2B in the superficial laminae (SDH, laminae I and II), nucleus proprius (NP, laminae III and IV), neck of the dorsal horn (NECK, laminae V and VI) and central canal region (lamina X) at thoracolumbar (T13-L2) and lumbosacral (L6-S2) segmental level significantly increased in the model group versus the control group (P < 0.05) and significantly decreased after EA treatment (P < 0.05). There were no significant changes in neither AWR scores nor expression of the NR2B subunit in these spinal regions after the sham EA treatment. These results confirm that EA can relieve chronic visceral hyperalgesia in IBS model rats and suggest that such an effect is possibly mediated through the downregulation of the NR2B subunits of NMDA at the spinal level.

Direct Observation of Photoinduced Charge Separation in Ruthenium Complex/Ni(OH) 2 Nanoparticle Hybrid

DOE PAGES

Tang, Yu; Pattengale, Brian A.; Ludwig, John M.; ...

2015-12-17

We report that Ni(OH) 2 have emerged as important functional materials for solar fuel conversion because of their potential as cost-effective bifunctional catalysts for both hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions. However, their roles as photocatalysts in the photoinduced charge separation (CS) reactions remain unexplored. In this paper, we investigate the CS dynamics of a newly designed hybrid catalyst by integrating a Ru complex with Ni(OH) 2 nanoparticles (NPs). Using time resolved X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XTA), we directly observed the formation of the reduced Ni metal site (~60 ps), unambiguously demonstrating CS process in the hybrid through ultrafast electron transfer frommore » Ru complex to Ni(OH) 2 NPs. Compared to the ultrafast CS process, the charge recombination in the hybrid is ultraslow (>>50 ns). These results not only suggest the possibility of developing Ni(OH) 2 as solar fuel catalysts, but also represent the first time direct observation of efficient CS in a hybrid catalyst using XTA.« less

Rheological Behavior of a Novel Organic-Inorganic Hybrid: Micro/Nano-Tin Fluorophosphate Glass-Polycarbonate.

PubMed

Yang, Jing; Liu, Huiwen; Yu, Honglin; Zou, Xiaoxuan; Jing, Bo; Dai, Wenli

2016-03-01

The rheological behavior of a novel, binary organic-inorganic hybrid consisting of an ultra-low Tg tin fluorophosphate glass (Pglass) and polycarbonate (PC) was investigated using oscillatory rheometry. It was found that the complex viscosity of the hybrid showed Pglass content dependence. Under low Pglass content (10-30%), the complex viscosity of the hybrid was lower than that of pure PC. While the complex viscosity was dramatically increased and higher than that of pure PC with the content of Pglass above 30%. This phenomenon was particularly remarkable at low frequencies. Besides, with the addition of Pglass the hybrid material exhibited shear-thinning behavior and the shear-thinning characteristics became more obvious with the enhancement of the Pglass content, indicating the presence of nonlinear chemical and physical interactions between the hybrid components. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements revealed that increasing the content of Pglass caused a decrease of the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the hybrids, suggesting that Pglass was acting as a macromolecular plasticizer for the PC. The microstructure of the Pglass in the hybrid material was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that the Pglass were dispersed as micro- and nano-bead in the continuous phase of PC and the Pglass appeared aggregation partly with the increase of the Pglass content. This contribution was anticipated to be a guideline for the processing of this promising new class of hybrid materials.

Control of Electron Flow Direction in Photoexcited Cycloplatinated Complex Containing Conjugated Polymer-Single Walled Carbon Nanotube Hybrids.

PubMed

Xiong, Wenjuan; Du, Lili; Lo, Kin Cheung; Shi, Haiting; Takaya, Tomohisa; Iwata, Koichi; Chan, Wai Kin; Phillips, David Lee

2018-06-25

Conjugated polymers incorporated with cycloplatinated complexes (P1-Pt and P2-Pt) were used as dispersants for single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Significant changes in the UV-vis absorption spectra were observed after the formation of the polymer/SWCNT hybrids. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations revealed the presence of a strong interaction between the cycloplatinated complex moieties and the SWCNT surface. The photoinduced electron transfer processes in these hybrids were strongly dependent on the type of the comonomer unit. Upon photoexcitation, the excited P1-Pt donates electrons to the SWCNT, while P2-Pt accepts electrons from the photoexcited SWCNT. These observations were supported by results from Raman and femtosecond time-resolved transient absorption spectroscopy experiments. The strong electronic interaction between the Pt complexes and the SWCNT gives rise to a new hybrid system that has a controllable photo-induced electron transfer flow, which are important in regulating the charge transport processes SWCNT-based optoelectronic devices.

Generalization and dilution of association results from European GWAS in populations of non-European ancestry: the PAGE study.

PubMed

Carlson, Christopher S; Matise, Tara C; North, Kari E; Haiman, Christopher A; Fesinmeyer, Megan D; Buyske, Steven; Schumacher, Fredrick R; Peters, Ulrike; Franceschini, Nora; Ritchie, Marylyn D; Duggan, David J; Spencer, Kylee L; Dumitrescu, Logan; Eaton, Charles B; Thomas, Fridtjof; Young, Alicia; Carty, Cara; Heiss, Gerardo; Le Marchand, Loic; Crawford, Dana C; Hindorff, Lucia A; Kooperberg, Charles L

2013-09-01

The vast majority of genome-wide association study (GWAS) findings reported to date are from populations with European Ancestry (EA), and it is not yet clear how broadly the genetic associations described will generalize to populations of diverse ancestry. The Population Architecture Using Genomics and Epidemiology (PAGE) study is a consortium of multi-ancestry, population-based studies formed with the objective of refining our understanding of the genetic architecture of common traits emerging from GWAS. In the present analysis of five common diseases and traits, including body mass index, type 2 diabetes, and lipid levels, we compare direction and magnitude of effects for GWAS-identified variants in multiple non-EA populations against EA findings. We demonstrate that, in all populations analyzed, a significant majority of GWAS-identified variants have allelic associations in the same direction as in EA, with none showing a statistically significant effect in the opposite direction, after adjustment for multiple testing. However, 25% of tagSNPs identified in EA GWAS have significantly different effect sizes in at least one non-EA population, and these differential effects were most frequent in African Americans where all differential effects were diluted toward the null. We demonstrate that differential LD between tagSNPs and functional variants within populations contributes significantly to dilute effect sizes in this population. Although most variants identified from GWAS in EA populations generalize to all non-EA populations assessed, genetic models derived from GWAS findings in EA may generate spurious results in non-EA populations due to differential effect sizes. Regardless of the origin of the differential effects, caution should be exercised in applying any genetic risk prediction model based on tagSNPs outside of the ancestry group in which it was derived. Models based directly on functional variation may generalize more robustly, but the identification of functional variants remains challenging.

Electroacupuncture for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: study protocol for a pilot multicentre randomized, patient-assessor-blinded, controlled trial

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is the main dose-limiting side effect of neurotoxic chemotherapeutic agents. CIPN can lead not only to loss of physical function, difficulties in activities of daily living (ADLs), and decreased quality of life, but also to dose reduction, delay or even cessation of treatment. Currently, there are few proven effective treatments for CIPN. This randomized controlled clinical trial is designed to evaluate the effects and safety of electroacupuncture (EA) for patients with CIPN. Methods/design This is a multicenter, two-armed, parallel-design, patient-assessor-blinded, randomized, sham-controlled clinical trial. Forty eligible patients with CIPN will be randomized in a ratio of 1:1 to the EA or sham EA arms. During the treatment phase, patients will undergo eight sessions of verum EA or sham EA twice weekly for four weeks, and then will be followed-up for eight weeks. Electrical stimulation in the EA group will consist of a mixed frequency of 2/120 Hz and 80% of bearable intensity. Sham EA will be applied to non-acupoints, with shallow needle insertion and no current. All outcomes and analyses of results will be assessed by researchers blinded to treatment allocation. The effects of EA on CIPN will be evaluated according to both subjective and objective outcome measures. The primary outcome measure will be the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) quality of life questionnaire to assess CIPN (QLQ-CIPN20). The secondary outcome measures will be the results on the numerical rating scale, the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test, the nerve conduction study, and the EORTC QLQ-C30, as well as the patient’s global impression of change and adverse events. Safety will be assessed at each visit. Discussion The results of this on-going study will provide clinical evidence for the effects and safety of EA for CIPN compared with sham EA. Trial registration Clinical Research Information Service: KCT0000506 PMID:23945074

Generalization and Dilution of Association Results from European GWAS in Populations of Non-European Ancestry: The PAGE Study

PubMed Central

Carlson, Christopher S.; Matise, Tara C.; North, Kari E.; Haiman, Christopher A.; Fesinmeyer, Megan D.; Buyske, Steven; Schumacher, Fredrick R.; Peters, Ulrike; Franceschini, Nora; Ritchie, Marylyn D.; Duggan, David J.; Spencer, Kylee L.; Dumitrescu, Logan; Eaton, Charles B.; Thomas, Fridtjof; Young, Alicia; Carty, Cara; Heiss, Gerardo; Le Marchand, Loic; Crawford, Dana C.; Hindorff, Lucia A.; Kooperberg, Charles L.

2013-01-01

The vast majority of genome-wide association study (GWAS) findings reported to date are from populations with European Ancestry (EA), and it is not yet clear how broadly the genetic associations described will generalize to populations of diverse ancestry. The Population Architecture Using Genomics and Epidemiology (PAGE) study is a consortium of multi-ancestry, population-based studies formed with the objective of refining our understanding of the genetic architecture of common traits emerging from GWAS. In the present analysis of five common diseases and traits, including body mass index, type 2 diabetes, and lipid levels, we compare direction and magnitude of effects for GWAS-identified variants in multiple non-EA populations against EA findings. We demonstrate that, in all populations analyzed, a significant majority of GWAS-identified variants have allelic associations in the same direction as in EA, with none showing a statistically significant effect in the opposite direction, after adjustment for multiple testing. However, 25% of tagSNPs identified in EA GWAS have significantly different effect sizes in at least one non-EA population, and these differential effects were most frequent in African Americans where all differential effects were diluted toward the null. We demonstrate that differential LD between tagSNPs and functional variants within populations contributes significantly to dilute effect sizes in this population. Although most variants identified from GWAS in EA populations generalize to all non-EA populations assessed, genetic models derived from GWAS findings in EA may generate spurious results in non-EA populations due to differential effect sizes. Regardless of the origin of the differential effects, caution should be exercised in applying any genetic risk prediction model based on tagSNPs outside of the ancestry group in which it was derived. Models based directly on functional variation may generalize more robustly, but the identification of functional variants remains challenging. PMID:24068893

Predicting Intestinal Adaptation in Pediatric Intestinal Failure: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

PubMed

Belza, Christina; Fitzgerald, Kevin; de Silva, Nicole; Avitzur, Yaron; Steinberg, Karen; Courtney-Martin, Glenda; Wales, Paul W

2017-12-04

The primary goal in intestinal failure (IF) is adaptation and enteral autonomy (EA). Our goals were to determine the proportion of patients treated for IF by an established intestinal rehabilitation program who achieved EA and to assess the predictors of EA. There have been considerable advancements in the management of IF over the last 15 years, children with short bowel syndrome with a reduction in mortality. Several studies have discussed variables that may influence the ability to attain EA; however, majority were written when mortality rates were considerably higher compared with the current contemporary experience. A retrospective analysis of infants <12 months with short bowel syndrome referred between 2006 and 2013 (n = 120). Data was collected on IF-related factors and nutritional intake. The cohort was stratified based on achievement of EA. Statistical testing completed using t test, Chi Square, and Cox Proportional Hazards regression (P < 0.05). EA was achieved in 84 (70.0%) patients. Patients who remained parenteral nutrition dependent were more likely to have volvulus (1.2 vs 22.2%, P < 0.001), shorter percent residual small bowel (29.4 vs 68.6%; P < 0.0001) and colon length (64.6 vs 86.0%; P = 0.001), and no ileocecal valve (61.1 vs 29.8%; P = 0.05). Mortality was also decreased in those who achieved EA (4 vs 22%; P = 0.004). Percent residual small bowel (HR = 1.03; 95% CI 1.02-1.03) and colon (HR = 1.01; 95% CI 1.00-1.02) length were positively associated with EA, while number of septic episodes was negatively associated (HR = 0.95; 95% CI 0.91-0.99). Seventy percent of infants with IF achieved EA. Residual small and large bowel length were the most important predictors of EA and septic events had a negative impact.

A simulation study of harmonics regeneration in noise reduction for electric and acoustic stimulation.

PubMed

Hu, Yi

2010-05-01

Recent research results show that combined electric and acoustic stimulation (EAS) significantly improves speech recognition in noise, and it is generally established that access to the improved F0 representation of target speech, along with the glimpse cues, provide the EAS benefits. Under noisy listening conditions, noise signals degrade these important cues by introducing undesired temporal-frequency components and corrupting harmonics structure. In this study, the potential of combining noise reduction and harmonics regeneration techniques was investigated to further improve speech intelligibility in noise by providing improved beneficial cues for EAS. Three hypotheses were tested: (1) noise reduction methods can improve speech intelligibility in noise for EAS; (2) harmonics regeneration after noise reduction can further improve speech intelligibility in noise for EAS; and (3) harmonics sideband constraints in frequency domain (or equivalently, amplitude modulation in temporal domain), even deterministic ones, can provide additional benefits. Test results demonstrate that combining noise reduction and harmonics regeneration can significantly improve speech recognition in noise for EAS, and it is also beneficial to preserve the harmonics sidebands under adverse listening conditions. This finding warrants further work into the development of algorithms that regenerate harmonics and the related sidebands for EAS processing under noisy conditions.

Ethacrynic acid improves the antitumor effects of irreversible epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors in breast cancer

PubMed Central

Hu, YunLong; Chen, TingTing; Peng, BoYa; Gao, NingNing; Jin, ZhenChao; Jia, TieLiu; Zhang, Na; Wang, ZhuLin; Jin, GuangYi

2016-01-01

Prolonged treatment of breast cancer with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) often results in acquired resistance and a narrow therapeutic index. One strategy to improve the therapeutic effects of EGFR TKIs is to combine them with drugs used for other clinical indications. Ethacrynic acid (EA) is an FDA approved drug that may have antitumor effects and may enhance the cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic agents by binding to glutathione and inhibiting WNT signaling. While the α,β-unsaturated-keto structure of EA is similar to that of irreversible TKIs, the mechanism of action of EA when combined with irreversible EGFR TKIs in breast cancer remains unknown. We therefore investigated the combination of irreversible EGFR TKIs and EA. We found that irreversible EGFR TKIs and EA synergistically inhibit breast cancer both in vitro and in vivo. The combination of EGFR TKIs and EA induces necrosis and cell cycle arrest and represses WNT/β-catenin signaling as well as MAPK-ERK1/2 signaling. We conclude that EA synergistically enhances the antitumor effects of irreversible EGFR TKIs in breast cancer. PMID:27487128

Oxidative cleavage of erucic acid for the synthesis of brassylic acid

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

Mohammed J. Nasrullah; Pooja Thapliyal; Erica N. Pfarr

2010-10-29

The main focus of this work is to synthesize Brassylic Acid (BA) using oxidative cleavage of Erucic Acid (EA). Crambe (Crambe abyssinica) is an industrial oilseed grown in North Dakota. Crambe has potential as an industrial fatty acid feedstock as a source of Erucic acid (EA). It has approximately 50-60 % of EA, a C{sub 22} monounsaturated fatty acid. Oxidative cleavage of unsaturated fatty acids derived from oilseeds produces long chain (9, 11, and 13 carbon atoms) dibasic and monobasic acids. These acids are known commercial feedstocks for the preparation of nylons, polyesters, waxes, surfactants, and perfumes. Other sources ofmore » EA are Rapeseed seed oil which 50-60 % of EA. Rapeseed is grown outside USA. The oxidative cleavage of EA was done using a high throughput parallel pressure reactor system. Kinetics of the reaction shows that BA yields reach a saturation at 12 hours. H{sub 2}WO{sub 4} was found to be the best catalyst for the oxidative cleavage of EA. High yields of BA were obtained at 80 C with bubbling of O{sub 2} or 10 bar of O{sub 2} for 12 hours.« less

Bergamot essential oil differentially modulates intracellular Ca2+ levels in vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells: a new finding seen with fura-2.

PubMed

You, Ji H; Kang, Purum; Min, Sun Seek; Seol, Geun Hee

2013-04-01

In this study, we compared the effect of the essential oil of Citrus bergamia Risso [bergamot, bergamot essential oil (BEO)] on the intracellular Ca levels in vascular endothelial (EA) and mouse vascular smooth muscle (MOVAS) cells, using the fura-2 fluorescence technique. BEO caused an initial transient increase in intracellular Ca concentration ([Ca]i) in EA cells, followed by a decrease, whereas it induced a sustained increase in [Ca]i in MOVAS cells. Linalyl acetate (LA) as a major component of BEO-induced [Ca]i mobilization was similar to BEO in EA cells. The increase of [Ca]i by LA was higher in EA cells than in MOVAS cells. [Ca]i rise induced by extracellular Ca application was significantly blocked by BEO or LA in EA cells but not in MOVAS cells, suggesting that BEO and LA block Ca influx in EA cells. The present results suggest that BEO and LA differentially modulate intracellular Ca levels in vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells. In addition, blockade of Ca influx by BEO and LA in EA cells may explain the protective effects of BEO on endothelial dysfunction associated with cardiovascular disease.

Does esophageal atresia influence the mother-infant interaction?

PubMed

Faugli, Anne; Emblem, Ragnhild; Veenstra, Marijke; Bjørnland, Kristin; Diseth, Trond H

2008-10-01

Chronic illness in infancy may influence parent-infant interaction. We assessed quality of mother-infant interaction in children with esophageal atresia (EA) and searched for predictors for impaired interaction. The study group comprised 37 one-year-old infants with EA born in 1999 to 2002 and their mothers. A comparison group comprised 10 infants with urologic problems without feeding difficulties and their mothers. Parent Child Early Relational Assessment was used to assess mother-child interaction in feeding and play situation. General Health Questionnaire and State Trait Anxiety Inventory were used to assess maternal psychological distress and anxiety. Many aspects of mother-EA infant interaction showed strength. However, mothers of EA children were compared to control-mothers significantly influenced in their ability to interact and the EA-mothers' "positive affective involvement, sensitivity, and responsiveness" during feeding was in range of concern. Small but significant effect of the mother's feeling of incompetence on their interaction was found. Mothers' attitude during feeding was negatively influenced in interaction between mother and infant with EA. The results suggest possibility for improvement in mother infant interaction by enhancing mothers' welfare when caring for infants with EA in medical services.

Decisions to register for the National Marrow Donor Program: rational vs emotional appeals.

PubMed

Studts, J L; Ruberg, J L; McGuffin, S A; Roetzer, L M

2010-03-01

Little research has examined how the content of health communications regarding the need for BM and stem cell donation affects the intentions and attitudes of potential National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) donors. This study used an experimental design to test the hypothesis that an emotional appeal (EA) to potential donors would lead to higher rates of NMDP registration than a rational appeal (RA). Participants were randomly assigned to receive either a RA or an EA and then asked if they would (1) register with the NMDP and (2) talk with family members about NMDP registration. A total of 85% of individuals receiving the EA agreed to register for the NMDP, whereas only 49% of the participants receiving the RA agreed to register. The EA (72%) and RA (54%) groups did not differ significantly in their reported willingness to talk with family members about NMDP registration. However, multivariate logistic regression analyses indicated that the EA group endorsed significantly greater willingness to engage in both outcomes. Results suggest that an EA was more effective in motivating participants, but other sociodemographic factors were also associated with decisions about NMDP registration. EA may provide a useful and cost-effective method for increasing NMDP registration.

Antinociceptive activities of 70% methanol extract of evodiae fructus (fruit of Evodia rutaecarpa var. bodinieri) and its alkaloidal components.

PubMed

Matsuda, H; Wu, J X; Tanaka, T; Iinuma, M; Kubo, M

1997-03-01

The effects of 70% methanol extract (EA-ext) from Evodiae Fructus (EA) consisting of dried fruits of Evodia rutaecarpa var. bodinieri (Rutaceae) on nociceptive responses were investigated. Oral administration of 50 or 200 mg/kg EA-ext had the same antinociceptive effect on writhing responses as induced by acetic acid. Its major alkaloidal constituents, evodiamine and rutaecarpine also had the antinociceptive effect. EA-ext significantly decreased the frequency of licking behavior within a unit of time at the late phase without affecting that of the early phase in the formalin test. EA-ext also increased nociceptive threshold of the inflamed paw without increasing that in the non-inflamed paw in the Randall-Selitto test. Although EA-ext inhibited the rise of vascular permeability induced by acetic acid and the increase of paw edema induced by carrageenin, it was ineffective on nociceptive response in the hot plate test and on locomotor activity. These results suggest that EA possesses antinociceptive effects and its mode of action may be mediated by anti-inflammatory action, and that the antinociceptive constituents are only partially attributable to alkaloidal components mentioned above.

Treatment and Outcome for Children with Esophageal Atresia from a Gender Perspective.

PubMed

Ekselius, Julia; Salö, Martin; Arnbjörnsson, Einar; Stenström, Pernilla

2017-01-01

Besides the incidence of esophageal atresia (EA) being higher in males, no other gender-specific differences in EA have been reported. The aim of this study was to search for gender-specific differences in EA. A retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary center for pediatric surgery. The medical charts of infants born with EA were reviewed. 20 girls were identified, and 20 boys were selected as matched controls with respect to concomitant malformations. Their treatment and outcome were evaluated. Polyhydramnios was more common in pregnancies with boys, 40%, versus girls, 10%, with EA ( p < 0.01). In total, 36 (90%) children had patent ductus arteriosus, without any gender difference (18 and 18, resp., p =1). The distribution of days at the different levels of care was not equally distributed between boys and girls. Boys with EA had significantly more postoperative days (median 5 days) in the ward than girls (median 5 and 2 days, resp., p =0.04). No other gender-specific differences in surgical treatment, complications, or symptoms at follow-up were identified. Polyhydramnios appears to be more frequent in pregnancies with boys than girls with EA. In this study, boys have longer stays than girls at the pediatric surgery ward.

Supraspinal control of external anal sphincter motility: effects of vesical distension in humans and cats.

PubMed

Vitton, V; Grimaud, J-C; Bouvier, M; Abysique, A

2006-11-01

A pontine centre located near the micturition centre controlling external anal sphincter (EAS) motility via noradrenergic neurones has been described in cats. The aim of this study was to determine (i) whether a similar centre controls EAS motility in humans and (ii) whether this centre is involved in vesico-sphincteric reflexes in cats and humans. The effects of an alpha-1-adrenoceptor antagonist (nicergoline) and those of vesical distension on the electrical activity of the EAS were studied in paraplegic and non-paraplegic volunteers. The effects of vesical distension by injecting saline at physiological levels on the responses of the EAS to pudendal nerve stimulation were investigated in intact cats and cats with nerve sections. In non-paraplegic subjects, nicergoline and vesical distension abolished the activity of the EAS. These effects were no longer observed in paraplegic patients. In cats, vesical distension inhibited the reflex response of the EAS to pudendal nerve stimulation. This vesico-sphincteric reflex, which was no longer observed in spinal animals, persisted after nicergoline injection. These findings indicate that in humans, there exists a supra-spinal centre facilitating the tonic activity of the EAS via noradrenergic neurones not involved in the inhibitory vesico-sphincteric reflex.

Live Fire Range Environmental Assessment

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

None

1993-08-01

The Central Training Academy (CTA) is a DOE Headquarters Organization located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with the mission to effectively and efficiently educate and train personnel involved in the protection of vital national security interests of DOE. The CTA Live Fire Range (LFR), where most of the firearms and tactical training occurs, is a complex separate from the main campus. The purpose of the proposed action is to expand the LFR to allow more options of implementing required training. The Department of Energy has prepared this Environmental Assessment (EA) for the proposed construction and operation of an expanded Live Firemore » Range Facility at the Central Training Academy in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Based on the analysis in the EA, DOE has determined that the proposed action is not a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment, within the meaning of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969. Therefore, the preparation of an environmental impact statement is not required and DOE is issuing this Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI).« less

Structure-activity relationships for novel drug precursor N-substituted-6-acylbenzothiazolon derivatives: A theoretical approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sıdır, Yadigar Gülseven; Sıdır, İsa

2013-08-01

In this study, the twelve new modeled N-substituted-6-acylbenzothiazolon derivatives having analgesic analog structure have been investigated by quantum chemical methods using a lot of electronic parameters and structure-activity properties; such as molecular polarizability (α), dipole moment (μ), EHOMO, ELUMO, q-, qH+, molecular volume (Vm), ionization potential (IP), electron affinity (EA), electronegativity (χ), molecular hardness (η), molecular softness (S), electrophilic index (ω), heat of formation (HOF), molar refractivity (MR), octanol-water partition coefficient (log P), thermochemical properties (entropy (S), capacity of heat (Cv)); as to investigate activity relationships with molecular structure. The correlations of log P with Vm, MR, ω, EA, EHOMO - ELUMO (ΔE), HOF in aqueous phase, χ, μ, S, η parameters, respectively are obtained, while the linear relation of log P with IP, Cv, HOF in gas phase are not observed. The log P parameter is obtained to be depending on different properties of compounds due to their complexity.

Microwell hybridization assay for detection of PCR products from Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and the recombinant Mycobacterium smegmatis strain 1008 used as an internal control.

PubMed Central

Kox, L F; Noordhoek, G T; Kunakorn, M; Mulder, S; Sterrenburg, M; Kolk, A H

1996-01-01

A microwell hybridization assay was developed for the detection of the PCR products from both Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex bacteria and the recombinant Mycobacterium smegmatis strain 1008 that is used as an internal control to monitor inhibition in the PCR based on the M. tuberculosis complex-specific insertion sequence IS6110. The test is based on specific detection with digoxigenin-labeled oligonucleotide probes of biotinylated PCR products which are captured in a microtiter plate coated with streptavidin. The captured PCR products are hybridized separately with two probes, one specific for the PCR product from IS6110 from M. tuberculosis complex and the other specific for the PCR fragment from the modified IS6110 fragment from the recombinant M. smegmatis 1008. The microwell hybridization assay discriminates perfectly between the two types of amplicon. The amount of PCR product that can be detected by this assay is 10 times less than that which can be detected by agarose gel electrophoresis. The test can be performed in 2 h. It is much faster and less laborious than Southern blot hybridization. Furthermore, the interpretation of results is objective. The assay was used with 172 clinical samples in a routine microbiology laboratory, and the results were in complete agreement with those of agarose gel electrophoresis and Southern blot hybridization. PMID:8862568

Genetic complexity underlying hybrid male sterility in Drosophila.

PubMed

Sawamura, Kyoichi; Roote, John; Wu, Chung-I; Yamamoto, Masa-Toshi

2004-02-01

Recent genetic analyses of closely related species of Drosophila have indicated that hybrid male sterility is the consequence of highly complex synergistic effects among multiple genes, both conspecific and heterospecific. On the contrary, much evidence suggests the presence of major genes causing hybrid female sterility and inviability in the less-related species, D. melanogaster and D. simulans. Does this contrast reflect the genetic distance between species? Or, generally, is the genetic basis of hybrid male sterility more complex than that of hybrid female sterility and inviability? To clarify this point, the D. simulans introgression of the cytological region 34D-36A to the D. melanogaster genome, which causes recessive male sterility, was dissected by recombination, deficiency, and complementation mapping. The 450-kb region between two genes, Suppressor of Hairless and snail, exhibited a strong effect on the sterility. Males are (semi-)sterile if this region of the introgression is made homozygous or hemizygous. But no genes in the region singly cause the sterility; this region has at least two genes, which in combination result in male sterility. Further, the males are less fertile when heterozygous with a larger introgression, which suggests that dominant modifiers enhance the effects of recessive genes of male sterility. Such an epistatic view, even in the less-related species, suggests that the genetic complexity is special to hybrid male sterility.

Genetic complexity underlying hybrid male sterility in Drosophila.

PubMed Central

Sawamura, Kyoichi; Roote, John; Wu, Chung-I; Yamamoto, Masa-Toshi

2004-01-01

Recent genetic analyses of closely related species of Drosophila have indicated that hybrid male sterility is the consequence of highly complex synergistic effects among multiple genes, both conspecific and heterospecific. On the contrary, much evidence suggests the presence of major genes causing hybrid female sterility and inviability in the less-related species, D. melanogaster and D. simulans. Does this contrast reflect the genetic distance between species? Or, generally, is the genetic basis of hybrid male sterility more complex than that of hybrid female sterility and inviability? To clarify this point, the D. simulans introgression of the cytological region 34D-36A to the D. melanogaster genome, which causes recessive male sterility, was dissected by recombination, deficiency, and complementation mapping. The 450-kb region between two genes, Suppressor of Hairless and snail, exhibited a strong effect on the sterility. Males are (semi-)sterile if this region of the introgression is made homozygous or hemizygous. But no genes in the region singly cause the sterility; this region has at least two genes, which in combination result in male sterility. Further, the males are less fertile when heterozygous with a larger introgression, which suggests that dominant modifiers enhance the effects of recessive genes of male sterility. Such an epistatic view, even in the less-related species, suggests that the genetic complexity is special to hybrid male sterility. PMID:15020468

Marine Corps Operational Medicine: An Analysis of Medical Supply Requirements for the Surgical Company Operating Room

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-06-18

354 Minor room clean-up Yes Yes 358 Tracheostomy Yes Yes 359 Induce local anesthesia No Yes 403 Decompression Craniotomy Yes Yes 455 Amputation... Drainage Auto Transfusion Bag 6s 1.2 EA 6515014993126 Pleurevac Drainage Unit W/Blood Retreival 6s 1.2 EA 6510011603261 Sponge Laparotomy...2.5’ Ster 24s 4 EA 6515011535730 Suture Nonabsorb Surg Cardio 3-0 Dbl Armed Poly Monofilament Ster 36s 2 EA 6515008669073 Tube Drainage

Emergency Preparedness Plan. DeWitt Army Community Hospital, Fort Belvoir, Virginia,

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-12-31

demand, dispatch at least one Respiratory Specialist (91V) to the ER rn Department of Familv Practice or senior representative will: (1) /Wnni™ and...be prepared for are: a. Two (2) messengers/runners to the EOC and Triage area(s). b. One or more Respiratory Specialist (91V) to the ER. c. A...Depressors 1 bx Shave Prep Set 50 ea Skin Closure, Adhesive 2 bx Stethoscope 5 ea Dental Mirrors 2 ea Nasal Speculum 2 ea Betadine Surgi-prep Sponge

Evaluation of RSDL, M291 SDK, 0.5% Bleach, 1% Soapy Water and SERPACWA. Part 12: Challenge with EA1212 (GF, cyclosarin)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-01-01

products in the haired guinea pig model following exposure to GF (EA1212). 15. SUBJECT TERMS decontamination, delayed decontamination, Reactive Skin...the four listed decontamination products in the haired guinea pig model following exposure to GF (EA1212). In all experiments, guinea pigs were close...the four listed decontamination products and SERPACWA in the haired guinea pig model following exposure to GF [cyclosarin, EA1212, Cyclohexyl

Prevalence of cervical neoplastic lesions and Human Papilloma Virus infection in Egypt: National Cervical Cancer Screening Project

PubMed Central

Abd El All, Howayda S; Refaat, Amany; Dandash, Khadiga

2007-01-01

Background Data from Egyptian studies provide widely varying estimates on the prevalence of pre-malignant and malignant cervical abnormalities and human papilloma virus (HPVs) infection. To define the prevalence and risk factors of pre-invasive and invasive cervical cancer (cacx), a community based full-scale cross sectional, household survey including 5453 women aged between 35 and 60 years was conducted. Methods The study period was between February 2000 and December 2002. Initially, conventional Papanicolaou (Pap) smears were evaluated using the Bethesda system (TBS), followed by colposcopic guided biopsy (CGB) for all epithelial abnormalities (EA). In a third step, HPV was tested on all EA by in-situ hybridization (ISH) using first the broad spectrum HPV probe recognizing HPVs 6, 11, 16, 18, 30, 31, 35, 45, 51 and 52 followed by subtyping with probes 6/11, 16/18 and 31/33. Lastly, unequivocal cases were immunostained for herpes simplex type-2 (HSV-2), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Results EA representing 7.8% (424/5453), were categorized into atypical squamous cell of undetermined significance (ASCUS) (34.4%), atypical glandular cell of undetermined significance (AGCUS) (15.3%), combined ASCUS and AGCUS (3.1%), low grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (SIL) (41.0%), high grade SIL (5.2%) and invasive lesions (1%). CGB of EA (n = 281) showed non neoplastic lesions (12.8%), atypical squamous metaplasia (ASM) (19.2%), cervical intraepithelial neoplasia I (CIN) (44.4%), CIN II (4.4%), CINIII (2.8%), endocervical lesions (5.2%), combined squamous and endocervical lesions (10.0%), invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (0.02%) and extranodal marginal zone B cell lymphoma (MZBCL) (0.02%). The overall predictive value of cytology was 87% while the predictive value for high grade lesions was 80%. On histological basis, HPVs were present in 94.3% of squamous lesions while it was difficult to be identified in endocervical ones. ISH revealed positivity for pan HPV in 65.9% of the studied biopsies (n = 217), with incorporation of the viral genome HPV 6/11, 16/18 and 31/33 in 11.1%, 33.3% and 17.1% respectively. Multiple HPVs infections were identified in 0.02%. Conclusion Pre-invasive high grade lesions and invasive cervical carcinoma represent 0.5% and 0.04% respectively in Egyptian women. HPV mostly 16/18 as a risk factor (p < 0.001), was frequently associated with mixed infections (p < 0.001) and bilharzial infestation (p < 0.001). PMID:17610742

The Way Ahead in Game-Based Learning

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-08-01

Mostly Hype…NOT science  Lack of guidelines Opportunity to exploit technology is tremendous! World of Warcraft Blizzard Games Civilization 4 2K Games...Second Life Linden Labs SimCity 4 EA Maxis 5 Background  Definitions: Game Serious game  Simulation vs Virtual World vs Game The Binary Game Cisco...learn in context by interacting with objects in a complex world .  Consistent with anchored, experiential learning, learners can make connections

Environmental Assessment (EA) for Construct Base Civil Engineering Complex at McConnell AFB

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-07-14

Engineer Squadron (22 CES/ CEVA ),53000 Hutchinson Street, Suite 109,McConnell AFB,KS,67221-3617 8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER 9. SPONSORING...Command Air Refueling Group Air Refueling Squadron Air Refueling Wing Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard Base Civil Engineer Best Management Practices...1991, in an "Economic Analysis", performed by Wilson and Company , dated 14 October 1993, and a repeat "Economic Analysis", dated 10 February 2000

COED Transactions, Vol. IX, No. 3, March 1977. Evaluation of a Complex Variable Using Analog/Hybrid Computation Techniques.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Marcovitz, Alan B., Ed.

Described is the use of an analog/hybrid computer installation to study those physical phenomena that can be described through the evaluation of an algebraic function of a complex variable. This is an alternative way to study such phenomena on an interactive graphics terminal. The typical problem used, involving complex variables, is that of…

Cerebral white matter hyperintensity in African Americans and European Americans with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Divers, Jasmin; Hugenschmidt, Christina; Sink, Kaycee M; Williamson, Jeffrey D; Ge, Yaorong; Smith, S Carrie; Bowden, Donald W; Whitlow, Christopher T; Lyders, Eric; Maldjian, Joseph A; Freedman, Barry I

2013-10-01

Previous studies involving inner city populations detected higher cerebral white matter hyperintensity (WMH) scores in African Americans (AAs) compared with European Americans (EAs). This finding might be attributable to the higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and poorer access to healthcare in AAs. Despite racial differences in CVD risk factor profiles, AAs have paradoxically lower levels of subclinical CVD. We hypothesized that AAs with diabetes and good access to healthcare would have comparable or lower levels of WMH as EAs. Racial differences in the distribution of WMH were analyzed in 46 AAs and 156 EAs with type 2 diabetes enrolled in the Diabetes Heart Study (DHS)-Mind, and replicated in a sample of 113 AAs and 61 EAs patients who had clinically indicated cerebral magnetic resonance imaging. Wilcoxon 2-sample tests and linear models were used to compare the distribution of WMH in AAs and EAs and to test for association between WMH and race. The unadjusted mean WMH score from the Diabetes Heart Study-Mind was 1.9 in AAs and 2.3 in EAs (P = .3244). Among those with clinically indicated magnetic resonance imaging, the mean WMH score was 2.9 in AAs and 3.9 in EAs (P = .0503). Adjustment for age and sex produced no statistically significant differences in WMH score between AAs and EAs. These independent datasets reveal comparable WMH scores in AAs and EAs, suggesting that disparities in access to healthcare and environmental exposures likely underlie the previously reported excess burden of WMH in AAs. Copyright © 2013 National Stroke Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of electroacupuncture at 2 and 100 Hz on rat type 2 diabetic neuropathic pain and hyperalgesia-related protein expression in the dorsal root ganglion.

PubMed

He, Xiao-Fen; Wei, Jun-Jun; Shou, Sheng-Yun; Fang, Jian-Qiao; Jiang, Yong-Liang

To investigate the analgesic effects of electroacupuncture (EA) at 2 and 100 Hz on type 2 diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) and on the expressions of the P2X3 receptor and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG). Rat type 2 DNP was induced by a high calorie and high sugar diet fed for 7 weeks, plus a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) after 5 weeks. EA at 2 and 100 Hz was carried out once every day after 7 weeks for 7 consecutive days. Body weight, serum fasting insulin (FINS), fasting blood glucose (FBG), insulin sensitivity index (ISI), and paw withdrawal latency (PWL) were measured. The expressions of L4-L6 DRG P2X3 receptors and CGRP were assessed by immunofluorescence. Type 2 DNP was successfully induced as shown by the increased body weight, FINS, and FBG, as well as the reduced ISI and PWL. Expressions of P2X3 receptors and CGRP in L4-L6 DRGs increased. EA at both 2 and 100 Hz relieved type 2 DNP, but the analgesic effect of EA was stronger at 2 Hz. P2X3 receptor expression decreased in L4-L6 DRGs following EA at 2 Hz and in L5 and L6 DRGs following EA at 100 Hz. EA at both 2 and 100 Hz down-regulated CGRP overexpression in L4-L6 DRGs. These findings indicate that EA at 2 Hz is a good option for the management of type 2 DNP. The EA effect may be related to its down-regulation of the overexpressions of the DRG P2X3 receptors and CGRP in this condition.

A mediational model of obesity related disordered eating: The roles of childhood emotional abuse and self-perception.

PubMed

Hymowitz, Genna; Salwen, Jessica; Salis, Katie Lee

2017-08-01

The extant literature indicates negative self-perceptions are a risk factor for disordered eating (DE) and DE is a risk factor for overweight and obesity. While childhood emotional abuse (EA) is often linked to DE and obesity, it is typically not included in comprehensive models of these health problems. Further investigation of interactions among EA, self-perception, and DE is needed to refine treatments for overweight, obesity, and DE. This study evaluated a model of DE and weight difficulties in which negative self-perception mediate the relationship between EA and DE, and DE predicts body mass index (BMI) in a population of emerging adults. Further, this study investigated the utility of history of EA for prediction of DE and classification of individuals with and without DE. Self-report questionnaires on childhood trauma, psychopathology, and eating behaviors were administered to 598 undergraduate students. Latent variable analysis confirmed the hypothesized model. Recursive partitioning determined that individuals reporting a high level of EA likely meet criteria for night eating syndrome (NES) or binge eating disorder (BED), and history of EA has a moderate to high level of specificity as a predictor of BED and NES. These findings confirm the necessity of evaluating EA and DE in emerging adults with weight difficulties, and the importance of assessing self-perception and DE in individuals with a history of EA. Future studies should investigate the utility of addressing EA and self-perception in interventions for DE and obesity and to determine whether these findings can be generalized to a clinical population. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The association between lower educational attainment and depression owing to shared genetic effects? Results in ~25,000 subjects.

PubMed

Peyrot, W J; Lee, S H; Milaneschi, Y; Abdellaoui, A; Byrne, E M; Esko, T; de Geus, E J C; Hemani, G; Hottenga, J J; Kloiber, S; Levinson, D F; Lucae, S; Martin, N G; Medland, S E; Metspalu, A; Milani, L; Noethen, M M; Potash, J B; Rietschel, M; Rietveld, C A; Ripke, S; Shi, J; Willemsen, G; Zhu, Z; Boomsma, D I; Wray, N R; Penninx, B W J H

2015-06-01

An association between lower educational attainment (EA) and an increased risk for depression has been confirmed in various western countries. This study examines whether pleiotropic genetic effects contribute to this association. Therefore, data were analyzed from a total of 9662 major depressive disorder (MDD) cases and 14,949 controls (with no lifetime MDD diagnosis) from the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium with additional Dutch and Estonian data. The association of EA and MDD was assessed with logistic regression in 15,138 individuals indicating a significantly negative association in our sample with an odds ratio for MDD 0.78 (0.75-0.82) per standard deviation increase in EA. With data of 884,105 autosomal common single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), three methods were applied to test for pleiotropy between MDD and EA: (i) genetic profile risk scores (GPRS) derived from training data for EA (independent meta-analysis on ~120,000 subjects) and MDD (using a 10-fold leave-one-out procedure in the current sample), (ii) bivariate genomic-relationship-matrix restricted maximum likelihood (GREML) and (iii) SNP effect concordance analysis (SECA). With these methods, we found (i) that the EA-GPRS did not predict MDD status, and MDD-GPRS did not predict EA, (ii) a weak negative genetic correlation with bivariate GREML analyses, but this correlation was not consistently significant, (iii) no evidence for concordance of MDD and EA SNP effects with SECA analysis. To conclude, our study confirms an association of lower EA and MDD risk, but this association was not because of measurable pleiotropic genetic effects, which suggests that environmental factors could be involved, for example, socioeconomic status.

Low-frequency electroacupuncture suppresses focal epilepsy and improves epilepsy-induced sleep disruptions.

PubMed

Yi, Pei-Lu; Lu, Chin-Yu; Jou, Shuo-Bin; Chang, Fang-Chia

2015-07-07

The positive effects of acupuncture at Feng-Chi acupoints on treating epilepsy and insomnia have been well-documented in ancient Chinese literature. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence to elucidate the underlying mechanisms behind these effects. Our previous study demonstrated that high-frequency (100 Hz) electroacupuncture (EA) at Feng-Chi acupoints deteriorates both pilocarpine-induced focal epilepsy and sleep disruptions. This study investigated the effects of low-frequency (10 Hz) EA on epileptic activities and epilepsy-induced sleep disruptions. In rats, the Feng-Chi acupoint is located 3 mm away from the center of a line between the two ears. Rats received 30 min of 10 Hz EA stimuli per day before each day's dark period for three consecutive days. Our results indicated that administration of pilocarpine into the left CeA at the beginning of the dark period induced focal epilepsy and decreased both rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and non-REM (NREM) sleep during the consequent light period. Low-frequency (10 Hz) EA at Feng-Chi acupoints suppressed pilocarpine-induced epileptiform EEGs, and this effect was in turn blocked by naloxone (a broad-spectrum opioid receptor antagonist), but not by naloxonazine (a μ-receptor antagonist), naltrindole (a δ-receptor antagonist) and nor-binaltorphimine (a κ-receptor antagonist). Ten Hz EA enhanced NREM sleep during the dark period, and this enhancement was blocked by all of the opioid receptor antagonists. On the other hand, 10 Hz EA reversed pilocarpine-induced NREM suppression during the light period, and the EA's effect on the sleep disruption was only blocked by naloxonazine. These results indicate that low-frequency EA stimulation of Feng-Chi acupoints is beneficial in improving epilepsy and epilepsy-induced sleep disruptions, and that opioid receptors in the CeA mediate EA's therapeutic effects.

Wise "birds" follow their clock: The role of emotional intelligence and morningness-eveningness in diurnal regulation of mood.

PubMed

Stolarski, Maciej; Jankowski, Konrad S; Matthews, Gerald; Kawalerczyk, Justyna

2016-01-01

Emotional intelligence (EI) and morningness-eveningness (M-E) preference have been shown to influence mood states. The present article investigates the way in which these two constructs may interact, influencing morning and evening mood levels. A sample of 172 participants completed a multidimensional mood scale measuring energetic arousal (EA), tense arousal (TA), and hedonic tone at 7:00 and at 22:00. As expected, morning and evening types experienced higher EA at their preferred time of day; effects of M-E on other mood dimensions were weaker. EI was found to correlate with lower TA, but the association was stronger at 22:00, perhaps reflecting the role of EI in managing the social events characteristic for the evening hours. An interactive effect of EI and M-E was found for both diurnal changes and morning levels of EA. Namely, in individuals higher in EI, there appeared a more marked synchrony effect between chronotype and EA, which was absent in those low in EI; individuals higher in EI showed more pronounced diurnal changes in EA characteristic for their chronotype (i.e., higher EA at morning hours in morning chronotypes; higher EA at evening hours in evening chronotypes), while in participants low in EI, diurnal changes in EA were smaller. Moreover, the characteristic positive association between morningness and EA during morning hours was apparent only in those high in EI. These findings suggest that individual differences in circadian variation in mood reflect several factors, including an endogenous rhythm in energy, the distribution of social activities throughout the day, and the person's awareness of their own energy level.

Randomized sham-controlled pilot trial of weekly electro-acupuncture for the prevention of taxane-induced peripheral neuropathy in women with early stage breast cancer.

PubMed

Greenlee, Heather; Crew, Katherine D; Capodice, Jillian; Awad, Danielle; Buono, Donna; Shi, Zaixing; Jeffres, Anne; Wyse, Sharon; Whitman, Wendy; Trivedi, Meghna S; Kalinsky, Kevin; Hershman, Dawn L

2016-04-01

To investigate the effect of electro-acupuncture (EA) as a non-pharmacological intervention to prevent or reduce chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy of taxane. Women with stage I-III breast cancer scheduled to receive taxane therapy were randomized to receive a standardized protocol of 12 true or sham EA (SEA) weekly treatments concurrent with taxane treatment. Subjects completed the Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form (BPI-SF), Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Taxane neurotoxicity subscale (FACT-NTX), and other assessments at baseline and weeks 6, 12, and 16. A total of 180 subjects were screened, 63 enrolled and 48 completed week 16 assessments. Mean age was 50 with 25 % white, 25 % black, and 43 % Hispanic; 52 % had no prior chemotherapy. At week 12, both groups reported an increase in mean BPI-SF worst pain score, but no mean differences were found between groups (SEA 2.8 vs. EA 2.6, P = .86). By week 16, the SEA group returned to baseline, while the EA group continued to worsen (SEA 1.7 vs. EA 3.4, P = .03). The increase in BPI-SF worst pain score was 1.62 points higher in the EA group than in the SEA group at week 16 (P = .04). In a randomized, sham-controlled trial of EA for prevention of taxane-induced CIPN, there were no differences in pain or neuropathy between groups at week 12. Of concern, subjects on EA had a slower recovery than SEA subjects. Future studies should focus on EA for treatment as opposed to prevention of CIPN.

Randomized sham controlled pilot trial of weekly electro-acupuncture for the prevention of taxane-induced peripheral neuropathy in women with early stage breast cancer

PubMed Central

Greenlee, Heather; Crew, Katherine D.; Capodice, Jillian; Awad, Danielle; Buono, Donna; Shi, Zaixing; Jeffres, Anne; Wyse, Sharon; Whitman, Wendy; Trivedi, Meghna S.; Kalinsky, Kevin; Hershman, Dawn L.

2016-01-01

PURPOSE To investigate the effect of electro-acupuncture (EA) as a non-pharmacological intervention to prevent or reduce chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy of taxane. METHODS Women with stage I-III breast cancer scheduled to receive taxane therapy were randomized to receive a standardized protocol of 12 true or sham EA (SEA) weekly treatments concurrent with taxane treatment. Subjects completed the Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form (BPI-SF), Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Taxane neurotoxicity subscale (FACT-NTX), and other assessments at baseline and weeks 6, 12, and 16. RESULTS A total of 180 subjects were screened, 63 enrolled and 48 completed week 16 assessments. Mean age was 50 with 25% white, 25% black, and 43% Hispanic; 52% had no prior chemotherapy. At week 12, both groups reported an increase in mean BPI-SF worst pain score, but no mean differences were found between groups (SEA 2.8 vs. EA 2.6, p=.86). By week 16, the SEA group returned to baseline, while the EA group continued to worsen (mean=1.7 in SEA vs. 3.40 in EA, p=.03). The increase in BPI-SF worst pain score was 1.62 points higher in the EA group than in the SEA group at week 16 (p=.04). CONCLUSIONS In a randomized, sham-controlled trial of EA for prevention of taxane-induced CIPN, there were no differences in pain or neuropathy between groups at week 12. Of concern, subjects on EA had a slower recovery than SEA subjects. Future studies should focus on EA for treatment as opposed to prevention of CIPN. PMID:27013473

Effects of electroacupuncture combined with stem cell transplantation on anal sphincter injury-induced faecal incontinence in a rat model.

PubMed

Li, Xiaojia; Guo, Xiutian; Jin, Weiqi; Lu, Jingen

2018-03-08

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and acupuncture are known to mitigate tissue damage. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of combined electroacupuncture (EA) stimulation and BMSC injection in a rat model of anal sphincter injury-induced faecal incontinence (FI). 60 Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups: sham-operated control, FI, FI+EA, FI+BMSC, and FI+BMSC+EA. The anorectal tissues were collected on days 1, 3, 7 and 14. Repair of the injured anal sphincter was compared using haematoxylin and eosin (HE) and immunocytochemiscal analyses with sarcomeric α actinin. The expression of stromal cell derived factor-1 (SDF-1) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-3 (MCP-3) was detected by quantitative reverse transcription PCR to evaluate the effects of EA on the homing of BMSCs. The therapeutic effect of combined EA+BMSCs on damaged tissue was the strongest among all the groups as indicated by HE and immunohistochemical staining. The expression of SDF-1 and MCP-3 was significantly increased by combined EA and BMSC treatment when compared with the other groups (P=0.01 to P<0.05), suggesting promotive effects of EA on the homing of BMSCs. The combination of EA and BMSC transplantation effectively repaired the impaired anal sphincters. The underlying mechanism might be associated with apparent promotive effects of EA on the homing of BMSCs. Our study provides a theoretical basis for the development of a non-surgical treatment method for FI secondary to muscle impairment. © 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.

The effect of electroacupuncture at the MA-IC 3 endocrine ear acupoint on fasting blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Simadibrata, C.; Budihardjo, F. A.; Srilestari, A.

2017-08-01

The management of diabetes mellitus (DM) involves education, nutritional intervention, and physical exercise, in addition to pharmacological interventions, with the long-term goal of preventing complications through the control of blood glucose levels. Several studies have shown that acupuncture, both conventional acupuncture and electroacupuncture, is useful for lowering blood glucose levels in patients with DM. This study aimed to determine the additional effect of electroacupuncture at the MA-IC 3 Endocrine ear acupoint on fasting blood glucose levels in patients with Type 2 DM who were receiving oral hypoglycemic agents at Banjar General Hospital. In this randomized controlled study, fifty-four study participants who were being treated with oral antidiabetics were allocated into two groups, receiving either electroacupuncture (EA) at the MA-IC 3 ear acupoint with dense disperse wave for 30 minutes or acupuncture at the same point and for the same duration but without EA (No EA). Fasting blood glucose levels were measured before and after the intervention. In Group A (EA), the mean fasting blood glucose (FBG) level decreased from 157.26±24.485 to 142.59±26.771 (p < 0.05), whereas in Group B (No EA), the mean FBG decreased from 149.67±21.485 to 148.74±21.326 (p < 0.05). The difference in the amount of FBG decrease between Group A (EA) and Group B (No EA) was statistically significant (p < 0.05). EA at the MA-IC 3 Endocrine lowers FBG levels to a greater degree than acupuncture with no EA in patients with type 2 DM.

In vitro and in vivo anti-tumour activities of echinoside A and ds-echinoside A from Pearsonothuria graeffei.

PubMed

Zhao, Qin; Xue, Yong; Wang, Jing-feng; Li, Hui; Long, Teng-teng; Li, Zhaojie; Wang, Yu-ming; Dong, Ping; Xue, Chang-hu

2012-03-15

Echinoside A (EA) and ds-echinoside A (DSEA) are triterpene glycosides isolated from the sea cucumber Pearsonothuria graeffei. DSEA, the desulfurisation product of EA, has the following structure: β-D-xylopyranosyl-holost-8(9),11(12)-diene-3β,17α-diol. In the present study, we examined the anti-tumour activities-in particular, the structure-activity relationships-of EA and DSEA in vitro and in vivo. Both EA and DSEA exhibited an inhibitory effect on cell proliferation, along with apoptosis-inducing activity, in HepG2 cells. Moreover, they significantly arrested the cell cycle in the G₀/G₁ phase. A reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction assay revealed that EA and DSEA significantly increased the expression of the cell-cycle-related genes, namely, p16, p21 and c-myc, and decreased that of cyclin D₁. Western blotting analysis demonstrated that they down-regulated the expression of Bcl-2, and enhanced mitochondria cytochrome c release, caspase-3 activation, and poly(adenosine diphosphate ribose) polymerase, cleavage. Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) expression was significantly decreased by DSEA, but was unaffected by EA. EA and DSEA (2.5 mg kg⁻¹) treatment of mice bearing H22 hepatocarcinoma tumours reduced the tumour weight by 49.8% and 55.0%, respectively. EA and DSEA exhibit marked anti-cancer activity in HepG2 cells, by blocking cell-cycle progression and inducing apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway. DSEA-induced apoptosis was more potent than EA-induced apoptosis. Furthermore, the two triterpene glycosides derived from P. graeffei may induce apoptosis of HepG2 cells in an NF-κB-dependent or NF-κB-independent manner, depending on their structure. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry.

Activation of reciprocal pathways between arcuate nucleus and ventrolateral periaqueductal gray during electroacupuncture: involvement of VGLUT3

PubMed Central

Guo, Zhi-Ling; Longhurst, John C.

2010-01-01

Electroacupuncture (EA) at the Jianshi-Neiguan acupoints (P5-P6, overlying the median nerve) attenuates sympathoexcitatory responses through activation of the arcuate nucleus (ARC) and ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (vlPAG). Activation of the ARC or vlPAG respectively leads to neuronal excitation of the both nuclei during EA. However, direct projections between these two nuclei that could participate in central neural processing during EA have not been identified. The vesicular glutamate transporter 3 (VGLUT3) marks glutamatergic neurons. Thus, the present study evaluated direct neuronal projections between the ARC and vlPAG during EA, focusing on neurons containing VGLUT3. Seven to ten days after unilateral microinjection of a rodamine-conjugated microsphere retrograde tracer (100 nl) into the vlPAG or ARC, rats were subjected to EA or served as a sham-operated control. Low frequency (2 Hz) EA was performed bilaterally for 30 min at the P5-P6 acupoints. Perikarya containing the microsphere tracer were found in the ARC and vlPAG of both groups. Compared to controls (needle placement without electrical stimulation), c-Fos immunoreactivity and neurons double-labeled with c-Fos, an immediate early gene and the tracer were increased significantly in the ARC and vlPAG of EA-treated rats (both P<0.01). Moreover, some neurons were triple-labeled with c-Fos, the retrograde tracer and VGLUT3 in the two nuclei following EA stimulation (P<0.01, both nuclei). These results suggest that direct reciprocal projections between the ARC and vlPAG are available to participate in prolonged modulation by EA of sympathetic activity and that VGLUT3-containing neurons are an important neuronal phenotype involved in this process. PMID:20836994

Adjuvant auricular electroacupuncture and autogenic training in rheumatoid arthritis: a randomized controlled trial. Auricular acupuncture and autogenic training in rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Bernateck, Michael; Becker, Mareike; Schwake, Christine; Hoy, Ludwig; Passie, Torsten; Parlesak, Alexandr; Fischer, Michael J; Fink, Matthias; Karst, Matthias

2008-08-01

In contrast to psychological interventions the usefulness of acupuncture as an adjuvant therapy in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has not yet been demonstrated. The efficacy of auricular electroacupuncture (EA) was directly compared with autogenic training (AT). Patients with RA (n = 44) were randomized into EA or AT groups. EA and lessons in AT were performed once weekly for 6 weeks. Primary outcome measures were the mean weekly pain intensity and the disease activity score 28 (DAS 28); secondary outcome measures were the use of pain medication, the pain disability index (PDI), the clinical global impression (CGI) and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, which were assessed during the study period and 3 months after the end of treatment. At the end of the treatment and at 3-month follow-up a clinically meaningful and statistically significant improvement (p < 0.05) could be observed in all outcome parameters and both groups. In contrast to the AT group, the onset of these effects in the EA group could already be observed after the 2nd treatment week. In the 4th treatment week the EA group reported significantly less pain than the AT group (p = 0.040). After the end of treatment (7th week) the EA group assessed their outcome as significantly more improved than the AT group (p = 0.035). The erythrocyte sedimentation rate in the EA group was significantly reduced (p = 0.010), and the serum concentration of tumor necrosis factor-alpha was significantly increased compared to the AT group (p = 0.020). The adjuvant use of both EA and AT in the treatment of RA resulted in significant short- and long-term treatment effects. The treatment effects of auricular EA were more pronounced. Copyright (c) 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Associations Between Prediagnostic Concentrations of Circulating Sex Steroid Hormones and Esophageal/Gastric Cardia Adenocarcinoma Among Men.

PubMed

Petrick, Jessica L; Hyland, Paula L; Caron, Patrick; Falk, Roni T; Pfeiffer, Ruth M; Dawsey, Sanford M; Abnet, Christian C; Taylor, Philip R; Weinstein, Stephanie J; Albanes, Demetrius; Freedman, Neal D; Gapstur, Susan M; Bradwin, Gary; Guillemette, Chantal; Campbell, Peter T; Cook, Michael B

2018-05-17

Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA) and gastric cardia adenocarcinoma (GCA) are characterized by a strong male predominance. Concentrations of sex steroid hormones have been hypothesized to explain this sex disparity. However, no prospective population-based study has examined sex steroid hormones in relation to EA/GCA risk. Thus, we investigated whether prediagnostic circulating sex steroid hormone concentrations were associated with EA/GCA in a nested case-control study drawn from participants in three prospective cohort studies. Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and electrochemiluminescence immunoassay, we quantitated sex steroid hormones and sex hormone binding globulin, respectively, in serum from 259 EA/GCA male case participants and 259 matched male control participants from the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial, Alpha-Tocopherol, Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention Study, and Cancer Prevention Study II Nutrition Cohort. Multivariable conditional logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for associations between circulating hormones and EA/GCA risk. All statistical tests were two-sided. Higher concentrations of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) were associated with a 38% decreased risk of EA/GCA (OR per unit increase in log2 DHEA = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.47 to 0.82, Ptrend = .001). Higher estradiol concentrations were associated with a 34% reduced risk of EA/GCA (OR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.45 to 0.98, Ptrend = .05), and the association with free estradiol was similar. No other associations between baseline hormone concentrations and future EA/GCA risk were observed. This study provides the first evidence that higher concentrations of circulating DHEA, estradiol, and free estradiol may be associated with lower risks of EA/GCA in men.

Using enterprise architecture artefacts in an organisation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niemi, Eetu; Pekkola, Samuli

2017-03-01

As a tool for management and planning, Enterprise Architecture (EA) can potentially align organisations' business processes, information, information systems and technology towards a common goal, and supply the information required within this journey. However, an explicit view on why, how, when and by whom EA artefacts are used in order to realise its full potential is not defined. Utilising the features of information systems use studies and data from a case study with 14 EA stakeholder interviews, we identify and describe 15 EA artefact use situations that are then reflected in the related literature. Their analysis enriches understanding of what are EA artefacts, how and why they are used and when are they used, and results in a theoretical framework for understanding their use in general.

Advanced Economic Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Greenberg, Marc W.; Laing, William

2013-01-01

An Economic Analysis (EA) is a systematic approach to the problem of choosing the best method of allocating scarce resources to achieve a given objective. An EA helps guide decisions on the "worth" of pursuing an action that departs from status quo ... an EA is the crux of decision-support.

Genetic ancestry, self-reported race and ethnicity in African Americans and European Americans in the PCaP cohort.

PubMed

Sucheston, Lara E; Bensen, Jeannette T; Xu, Zongli; Singh, Prashant K; Preus, Leah; Mohler, James L; Su, L Joseph; Fontham, Elizabeth T H; Ruiz, Bernardo; Smith, Gary J; Taylor, Jack A

2012-01-01

Family history and African-American race are important risk factors for both prostate cancer (CaP) incidence and aggressiveness. When studying complex diseases such as CaP that have a heritable component, chances of finding true disease susceptibility alleles can be increased by accounting for genetic ancestry within the population investigated. Race, ethnicity and ancestry were studied in a geographically diverse cohort of men with newly diagnosed CaP. Individual ancestry (IA) was estimated in the population-based North Carolina and Louisiana Prostate Cancer Project (PCaP), a cohort of 2,106 incident CaP cases (2063 with complete ethnicity information) comprising roughly equal numbers of research subjects reporting as Black/African American (AA) or European American/Caucasian/Caucasian American/White (EA) from North Carolina or Louisiana. Mean genome wide individual ancestry estimates of percent African, European and Asian were obtained and tested for differences by state and ethnicity (Cajun and/or Creole and Hispanic/Latino) using multivariate analysis of variance models. Principal components (PC) were compared to assess differences in genetic composition by self-reported race and ethnicity between and within states. Mean individual ancestries differed by state for self-reporting AA (p = 0.03) and EA (p = 0.001). This geographic difference attenuated for AAs who answered "no" to all ethnicity membership questions (non-ethnic research subjects; p = 0.78) but not EA research subjects, p = 0.002. Mean ancestry estimates of self-identified AA Louisiana research subjects for each ethnic group; Cajun only, Creole only and both Cajun and Creole differed significantly from self-identified non-ethnic AA Louisiana research subjects. These ethnicity differences were not seen in those who self-identified as EA. Mean IA differed by race between states, elucidating a potential contributing factor to these differences in AA research participants: self-reported ethnicity. Accurately accounting for genetic admixture in this cohort is essential for future analyses of the genetic and environmental contributions to CaP.

Three-Dimensional Endoanal Ultrasound Features of the Anal Sphincter in Asian Primigravidae.

PubMed

Wickramasinghe, Dakshitha Praneeth; Senaratne, Supun; Senanayake, Hemantha; Samarasekera, Dharmabandu Nandadeva

2018-04-17

The normal parameters of 3-dimensional endoanal ultrasound (3DEAUS) of the anal sphincter have not been reported for primigravidae or pregnant women at present. 3DEAUS parameters in Asian primigravidae were assessed in this study. We analyzed 3DEAUS data of 101 consecutives Asian primigravidae, assessed in the early third trimester. The assessment was performed with a rigid ultrasonic probe (Olympus ® RU 12M-R1 probe and EU-ME1 ultrasound system (Olympus Corp., Shinjuku, Japan). The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to detect the differences in pressure in different quadrants. The participants had a mean age of 24.7 (standard deviation [SD], 5.1) years. The Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score was normal in all participants. The anal sphincter complex had 3 characteristic segments that were identifiable: upper, middle and lower. The puborectalis muscle was identified as a striated "V"-shaped sling, and its mean thickness was 7.44 (SD, 1.41) mm. The mean thickness of internal (IAS) and external (EAS) sphincters at the mid-sphincter level were 1.78 (SD, 0.59) and 5.49 (SD, 1.21) mm, respectively. The EAS measured 6.02 (SD, 1.07) mm at the lower sphincter level. The statistically significant differences seen in the in quadrants were: the IAS was thicker anteriorly (Z = -2.642; P = .008), the EAS at both midsphincter level (Z = -3.70; P < .001) and lower sphincter level (Z = -7.712; P < .001) was thicker posteriorly, and the IAS was thicker at the 9 o'clock position (Z = -2.081; P = .037). Good symmetry at all 3 levels was seen in the EAS (including the puborectalis muscle). Normal values of 3DEAUS for primigravidae have been identified and may serve as reference values for other laboratories. © 2018 by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

Esophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula in both members of monozygotic twins.

PubMed

Ohno, Koichi; Nakamura, Tetsuro; Azuma, Takashi; Yoshida, Tatsuyuki; Yamada, Hiroto; Hayashi, Hiroaki; Masahata, Kazunori

2008-10-01

A 29-year-old healthy woman bore monozygotic male twins at 37 weeks of gestation by cesarean section. They weighed 2,350 and 2,140 g, respectively. Twin B was found to have a ventricular septal defect. They were diagnosed with esophageal atresia (EA) with tracheoesophageal fistula and underwent primary end-to-end esophageal anastomosis at the age of 1 day. Their postoperative courses were uneventful. Although the incidence of EA is higher in twins than in singletons, usually, EA affects only one of twins. There have been only 20 pairs of twins concordant for the EA anomaly. There is no distinct difference between sporadic EA and EA in both twins (EABT) with regard to sexuality, classification, and incidence of associated anomalies. The zygosity of EABT consisted of 15 monozygosities (83.3%) and 3 dizygosities (16.7%). An overwhelmingly higher incidence of monozygosity than that of dizygosity in EABT suggests that genetic factors must play a considerable role in the embryology in EABT cases.

Test of Hadronic Interaction Models with the KASCADE Hadron Calorimeter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Milke, J.; KASCADE Collaboration

The interpretation of extensive air shower (EAS) measurements often requires the comparison with EAS simulations based on high-energy hadronic interaction models. These interaction models have to extrapolate into kinematical regions and energy ranges beyond the limit of present accelerators. Therefore, it is necessary to test whether these models are able to describe the EAS development in a consistent way. By measuring simultaneously the hadronic, electromagnetic, and muonic part of an EAS the experiment KASCADE offers best facilities for checking the models. For the EAS simulations the program CORSIKA with several hadronic event generators implemented is used. Different hadronic observables, e.g. hadron number, energy spectrum, lateral distribution, are investigated, as well as their correlations with the electromagnetic and muonic shower size. By comparing measurements and simulations the consistency of the description of the EAS development is checked. First results with the new interaction model NEXUS and the version II.5 of the model DPMJET, recently included in CORSIKA, are presented and compared with QGSJET simulations.

Acid hydrolysis of crude tannins from infructescence of Platycarya strobilacea Sieb. et Zucc to produce ellagic acid.

PubMed

Zhang, Liangliang; Wang, Yongmei; Xu, Man

2014-01-01

The infructescence of Platycarya strobilacea Sieb. et Zucc is a well-known traditional medicine in China, Japan and Korea. The infructescence of P. strobilacea Sieb. et Zucc is a rich source of ellagitannins that are composed of ellagic acid (EA) and gallic acid, linked to a sugar moiety. The aim of this study was to prepare EA by acid hydrolysis of crude tannins from the infructescence of P. strobilacea Sieb. et Zucc, and establish a new technological processing method for EA. The natural antioxidant EA was prepared by using the water extraction of infructescence of P. strobilacea Sieb. et Zucc, evaporation, condensation, acid hydrolysis and prepared by the process of crystallisation. The yield percentage of EA from crude EA was more than 20% and the purity of the product was more than 98%, as identified by using HPLC. The structure was identified on the basis of spectroscopic analysis and comparison with authentic compound.

Detection of elder abuse: Exploring the potential use of the Elder Abuse Suspicion Index© by law enforcement in the field.

PubMed

Kurkurina, Elina; Lange, Brittany C L; Lama, Sonam D; Burk-Leaver, Erin; Yaffe, Mark J; Monin, Joan K; Humphries, Debbie

2018-01-01

There are no known instruments to aid law enforcement officers in the assessment of elder abuse (EA), despite officers' contact with older adults. This study aimed to identify: 1) officers' perceptions and knowledge of EA, 2) barriers in detecting EA in the field, 3) characteristics officers value in a detection tool, and to explore 4) the potential for officers to use the Elder Abuse Suspicion Index (EASI)©. Data was collected from 69 Connecticut officers who confirmed that barriers to effectively detecting EA included a lack of EA detection instruments, as well as a lack of training on warning signs and risk factors. Officers indicated that the important elements of a desirable tool for helping to detect EA included ease of use, clear instructions, and information on follow-up resources. Approximately 80% of respondents could see themselves using the EASI © in the field, and a modified version has been developed for this purpose.

Hybrid sterility in crosses between two Brazilian sibling species of the Anopheles albitarsis complex.

PubMed

Fontoura, Nathalia Giglio; Araki, Alejandra Saori; Van Der Maas Azevedo, Renata; Galardo, Allan Kardec Ribeiro; Peixoto, Alexandre Afranio; Lima, José Bento Pereira

2014-12-04

Complexes of cryptic species are common in several taxa and this is also the case in the Anopheles genus, a group including all known human malaria vectors. The Anopheles albitarsis complex comprises at least nine cryptic species, some of which are implicated as vectors of human malaria. Several different types of data have been generated for this species complex such as cytogenetics, alloenzymes, morphological and feeding behavioral, hybridization experiments, RAPD-PCR and RFLP and mitochondrial and nuclear markers. Studies focused on its postzygotic isolation are still somewhat rare in the literature despite their importance to understand the speciation process and the level of gene flow potentially occurring among the different sibling species. Hybridization experiments between Anopheles albitarsis s.s. and Anopheles marajoara, as well as backcrosses between hybrids and Anopheles albitarsis s.s., were performed using the induced mating technique. Results were compared to intraspecific crosses. Larva-to-adult viability and sex ratio were also assessed. Male hybrids show very low insemination rates and nearly complete sterility, apparently due to abnormalities in their reproductive organs. Evidence of partial sterility among the hybrid females was also observed. Our data indicated that Anopheles albitarsis s.s. and Anopheles marajoara show a high level of postzygotic isolation with a strong hybrid male sterility. This result is consistent with the Haldane's rule which states that in interspecific crosses the heterogametic sex is the first to be affected. However, the fact that the females are not completely sterile raises the possibility of introgression between these two siblings species.

Petascale computation performance of lightweight multiscale cardiac models using hybrid programming models.

PubMed

Pope, Bernard J; Fitch, Blake G; Pitman, Michael C; Rice, John J; Reumann, Matthias

2011-01-01

Future multiscale and multiphysics models must use the power of high performance computing (HPC) systems to enable research into human disease, translational medical science, and treatment. Previously we showed that computationally efficient multiscale models will require the use of sophisticated hybrid programming models, mixing distributed message passing processes (e.g. the message passing interface (MPI)) with multithreading (e.g. OpenMP, POSIX pthreads). The objective of this work is to compare the performance of such hybrid programming models when applied to the simulation of a lightweight multiscale cardiac model. Our results show that the hybrid models do not perform favourably when compared to an implementation using only MPI which is in contrast to our results using complex physiological models. Thus, with regards to lightweight multiscale cardiac models, the user may not need to increase programming complexity by using a hybrid programming approach. However, considering that model complexity will increase as well as the HPC system size in both node count and number of cores per node, it is still foreseeable that we will achieve faster than real time multiscale cardiac simulations on these systems using hybrid programming models.