Tobacco industry's ITGA fights FCTC implementation in the Uruguay negotiations.

PubMed

Assunta, Mary

2012-11-01

To illustrate how the tobacco industry' front group, the International Tobacco Growers Association (ITGA), mobilised tobacco farmers to influence the fourth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP4) negotiations and defeat the adoption of Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Articles 9 and 10 Guidelines and Articles 17 and 18 progress report. A review of COP4 documents on Articles 9, 10, 17 and 18 was triangulated with relevant information from tobacco industry reports, websites of British American Tobacco, Philip Morris International and ITGA, presentations by tobacco industry executives and internal industry documents from the Legacy Tobacco Documents Library website. Philip Morris International and British American Tobacco rejected Articles 9 and 10 draft Guidelines claiming that banning ingredients in cigarettes will render burley leaf less commercially viable making tobacco growers in many countries suffer economic consequences. They claimed the terms 'attractiveness' and 'palatability' are not appropriate regulatory standards. The ITGA launched a global campaign to mobilise farmers to reject the draft Guidelines at COP4 in Uruguay. Tobacco producers, Brazil, Philippines, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi and Zimbabwe, sent large delegations to COP4 and participated actively in the negotiation on the draft Guidelines. Partial Guidelines on Articles 9 and 10 on product regulation and disclosure were adopted. COP4's work on Article 17 provides guidance on viable alternatives, but the ITGA is opposed to this and continues fight crop substitution. Despite ITGA's international campaign to thwart the Guidelines on Articles 9 and 10 and a strong representation from tobacco-growing countries at COP4, the outcome after intense negotiations was the adoption of Partial Guidelines and work on Articles 17 and 18 to proceed.

A retrospective analysis of 25% human serum albumin supplementation in hypoalbuminemic dogs with septic peritonitis

PubMed Central

Horowitz, Farrah B.; Read, Robyn L.; Powell, Lisa L.

2015-01-01

This study describes the influence of 25% human serum albumin (HSA) supplementation on serum albumin level, total protein (TP), colloid osmotic pressure (COP), hospital stay, and survival in dogs with septic peritonitis. Records of 39 dogs with septic peritonitis were evaluated. In the HSA group, initial and post-transfusion TP, albumin, COP, and HSA dose were recorded. In the non-supplemented group, repeated values of TP, albumin, and COP were recorded over their hospitalization. Eighteen dogs survived (53.8% mortality). Repeat albumin values were higher in survivors (mean 23.9 g/L) and elevated repeat albumin values were associated with HSA supplementation. Repeat albumin and TP were higher in the HSA supplemented group (mean 24 g/L and 51.9 g/L, respectively) and their COP increased by 5.8 mmHg. Length of hospitalization was not affected. Twenty-five percent HSA increases albumin, TP, and COP in canine patients with septic peritonitis. Higher postoperative albumin levels are associated with survival. PMID:26028681

50 CFR 23.88 - What are the resolutions and decisions of the CoP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 50 Wildlife and Fisheries 9 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false What are the resolutions and decisions of the CoP? 23.88 Section 23.88 Wildlife and Fisheries UNITED STATES FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE... decisions of the CoP? (a) Purpose. Under Article XI of the Treaty, the Parties agree to resolutions and...

50 CFR 23.88 - What are the resolutions and decisions of the CoP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 50 Wildlife and Fisheries 9 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false What are the resolutions and decisions of the CoP? 23.88 Section 23.88 Wildlife and Fisheries UNITED STATES FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE... decisions of the CoP? (a) Purpose. Under Article XI of the Treaty, the Parties agree to resolutions and...

50 CFR 23.88 - What are the resolutions and decisions of the CoP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 50 Wildlife and Fisheries 9 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false What are the resolutions and decisions of the CoP? 23.88 Section 23.88 Wildlife and Fisheries UNITED STATES FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE... decisions of the CoP? (a) Purpose. Under Article XI of the Treaty, the Parties agree to resolutions and...

Balance training and center-of-pressure location in participants with chronic ankle instability.

PubMed

Mettler, Abby; Chinn, Lisa; Saliba, Susan A; McKeon, Patrick O; Hertel, Jay

2015-04-01

Chronic ankle instability (CAI) occurs in some people after a lateral ankle sprain and often results in residual feelings of instability and episodes of the ankle's giving way. Compared with healthy people, patients with CAI demonstrated poor postural control and used a more anteriorly and laterally positioned center of pressure (COP) during a single-limb static-balance task on a force plate. Balance training is an effective means of altering traditional COP measures; however, whether the overall location of the COP distribution under the foot also changes is unknown. To determine if the spatial locations of COP data points in participants with CAI change after a 4-week balance-training program. Randomized controlled trial. Laboratory. Thirty-one persons with self-reported CAI. Participants were randomly assigned to a 4-week balance-training program or no balance training. We collected a total of 500 COP data points while participants balanced using a single limb on a force plate during a 10-second trial. The location of each COP data point relative to the geometric center of the foot was determined, and the frequency count in 4 sections (anteromedial, anterolateral, posteromedial, posterolateral) was analyzed for differences between groups. Overall, COP position in the balance-training group shifted from being more anterior to less anterior in both eyes-open trials (before trial = 319.1 ± 165.4, after trial = 160.5 ± 149.5; P = .006) and eyes-closed trials (before trial = 387.9 ± 123.8, after trial = 189.4 ± 102.9; P < .001). The COP for the group that did not perform balance training remained the same in the eyes-open trials (before trial = 214.1 ± 193.3, after trial = 230.0 ± 176.3; P = .54) and eyes-closed trials (before trial = 326.9 ± 134.3, after trial = 338.2 ± 126.1; P = .69). In participants with CAI, the balance-training program shifted the COP location from anterolateral to posterolateral. The program may have repaired some of the damaged sensorimotor system pathways, resulting in a more optimally functioning and less constrained system.

Sixteen-Day Bedrest Significantly Increases Plasma Colloid Osmotic Pressure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hargens, Alan R.; Hsieh, S. T.; Murthy, G.; Ballard, R. E.; Convertino, V. A.; Wade, Charles E. (Technical Monitor)

1994-01-01

Upon exposure to microgravity, astronauts lose up to 10% of their total plasma volume, which may contribute to orthostatic intolerance after space flight. Because plasma colloid osmotic pressure (COP) is a primary factor maintaining plasma volume, our objective was to measure time course changes in COP during microgravity simulated by 6 deg. head-down tilt (HDT). Seven healthy male subjects (30-55 years of age) were placed in HDT for 16 days. For the purpose of another study, three of the seven subjects were chosen to exercise on a cycle ergometer on day 16. Blood samples were drawn immediately before bedrest on day 14 of bedrest, 18-24 hours following exercise while all subjects were still in HDT and 1 hour following bedrest termination. Plasma COP was measured in all 20 microliter EDTA-treated samples using an osmometer fitted with a PM 30 membrane. Data were analyzed with paired and unpaired t-tests. Plasma COP on day 14 of bedrest (29.9 +/- 0.69 mmHg) was significantly higher (p less than 0.005) than the control, pre-bedrest value (23.1 +/- 0.76 mmHg). At one hour of upright recovery after HDT, plasma COP remained significantly elevated (exercise: 26.9 +/- 0.87 mmHg; no exercise: 26.3 +/- 0.85 mmHg). Additionally, exercise had no significant effect on plasma COP 18-24 hours following exercise (exercise: 27.8 +/- 1.09 mmHg; no exercise: 27.1 +/- 0.78 mmHg). Our results demonstrate that plasma COP increases significantly with microgravity simulated by HDT. However, preliminary results indicate exercise during HDT does not significantly affect plasma COP.

Myeloid leukemia factor 1 regulates p53 by suppressing COP1 via COP9 signalosome subunit 3.

PubMed

Yoneda-Kato, Noriko; Tomoda, Kiichiro; Umehara, Mari; Arata, Yukinobu; Kato, Jun-ya

2005-05-04

Myeloid leukemia factor 1 (MLF1) was first identified as the leukemic fusion protein NPM-MLF1 generated by the t(3;5)(q25.1;q34) chromosomal translocation. Although MLF1 expresses normally in a variety of tissues including hematopoietic stem cells and the overexpression of MLF1 correlates with malignant transformation in human cancer, little is known about how MLF1 is involved in the regulation of cell growth. Here we show that MLF1 is a negative regulator of cell cycle progression functioning upstream of the tumor suppressor p53. MLF1 induces p53-dependent cell cycle arrest in murine embryonic fibroblasts. This action requires a novel binding partner, subunit 3 of the COP9 signalosome (CSN3). A reduction in the level of CSN3 protein with small interfering RNA abrogated MLF1-induced G1 arrest and impaired the activation of p53 by genotoxic stress. Furthermore, ectopic MLF1 expression and CSN3 knockdown inversely affect the endogenous level of COP1, a ubiquitin ligase for p53. Exogenous expression of COP1 overcomes MLF1-induced growth arrest. These results indicate that MLF1 is a critical regulator of p53 and suggest its involvement in leukemogenesis through a novel CSN3-COP1 pathway.

Carbon monoxide poisoning: a five year review at Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore.

PubMed

Handa, P K; Tai, D Y H

2005-11-01

Carbon monoxide poisoning (COP) is one of the leading causes of death from poisoning worldwide. There is no published study of COP in Singapore so far. All patients admitted with the diagnosis of COP to Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH) over 5 years from 1999 to 2003 were retrospectively reviewed. The diagnosis was based on a history of potential exposure to carbon monoxide (CO) and elevated levels of carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb). The causes, demographic data, clinical presentations, management and complications were analysed. There were 12 patients with COP. Their average age was 38.9 (+/-11.8) years, with a male-to-female ratio of 3:1. Accidental COP (58.3%) was more common than intentional COP (41.7%). The most common cause of accidental COP was smoke inhalation from a faulty vehicle. Gas stove was the most preferred source for intentional poisoning. Presenting features were headache (83.3%), confusion (83.3%), coma (12.7%) and agitation (8.3%). The mean COHb level on admission was 35.9% (+/-13.6). All were treated with 100% oxygen. All the patients achieved normal levels of COHb within 24 hours of admission. Two (16.7%) required intubation for airway protection as they were comatose on arrival, of which 1 presented with very high level of COHb (48.1%) and was the only patient to be treated with hyperbaric oxygen. Acute complications were globus pallidus infarction (16.6%), acute respiratory distress syndrome (8.3%) and myocardial ischaemia (8.3%). Most of the patients (91.7%) were discharged well from the hospital. One patient developed parkinsonism after a follow-up of 2 years. There were no deaths. COP is relatively uncommon in Singapore. It has a low rate of short- and long-term complications.

Genetic Manipulation of the COP9 Signalosome Subunit PfCsnE Leads to the Discovery of Pestaloficins in Pestalotiopsis fici.

PubMed

Zheng, Yanjing; Ma, Ke; Lyu, Haining; Huang, Ying; Liu, Hongwei; Liu, Ling; Che, Yongsheng; Liu, Xingzhong; Zou, Huixi; Yin, Wen-Bing

2017-09-01

By deleting the COP9 signalosome subunit PfcsnE from Pestalotiopsis fici, seven compounds that were newly produced by the mutant could be characterized, including five new structures, pestaloficins A-E (1 and 3-6). Pestaloficin A (1) represents a new type of dimeric cyclohexanone derivative linked through an unprecedented pentacyclic spiral ring.

Use of communities of practice in business and health care sectors: a systematic review.

PubMed

Li, Linda C; Grimshaw, Jeremy M; Nielsen, Camilla; Judd, Maria; Coyte, Peter C; Graham, Ian D

2009-05-17

Since being identified as a concept for understanding knowledge sharing, management, and creation, communities of practice (CoPs) have become increasingly popular within the health sector. The CoP concept has been used in the business sector for over 20 years, but the use of CoPs in the health sector has been limited in comparison. First, we examined how CoPs were defined and used in these two sectors. Second, we evaluated the evidence of effectiveness on the health sector CoPs for improving the uptake of best practices and mentoring new practitioners. We conducted a search of electronic databases in the business, health, and education sectors, and a hand search of key journals for primary studies on CoP groups. Our research synthesis for the first objective focused on three areas: the authors' interpretations of the CoP concept, the key characteristics of CoP groups, and the common elements of CoP groups. To examine the evidence on the effectiveness of CoPs in the health sector, we identified articles that evaluated CoPs for improving health professional performance, health care organizational performance, professional mentoring, and/or patient outcome; and used experimental, quasi-experimental, or observational designs. The structure of CoP groups varied greatly, ranging from voluntary informal networks to work-supported formal education sessions, and from apprentice training to multidisciplinary, multi-site project teams. Four characteristics were identified from CoP groups: social interaction among members, knowledge sharing, knowledge creation, and identity building; however, these were not consistently present in all CoPs. There was also a lack of clarity in the responsibilities of CoP facilitators and how power dynamics should be handled within a CoP group. We did not find any paper in the health sector that met the eligibility criteria for the quantitative analysis, and so the effectiveness of CoP in this sector remained unclear. There is no dominant trend in how the CoP concept is operationalized in the business and health sectors; hence, it is challenging to define the parameters of CoP groups. This may be one of the reasons for the lack of studies on the effectiveness of CoPs in the health sector. In order to improve the usefulness of the CoP concept in the development of groups and teams, further research will be needed to clarify the extent to which the four characteristics of CoPs are present in the mature and emergent groups, the expectations of facilitators and other participants, and the power relationship within CoPs.

The Evolution of COP9 Signalosome in Unicellular and Multicellular Organisms.

PubMed

Barth, Emanuel; Hübler, Ron; Baniahmad, Aria; Marz, Manja

2016-05-02

The COP9 signalosome (CSN) is a highly conserved protein complex, recently being crystallized for human. In mammals and plants the COP9 complex consists of nine subunits, CSN 1-8 and CSNAP. The CSN regulates the activity of culling ring E3 ubiquitin and plays central roles in pleiotropy, cell cycle, and defense of pathogens. Despite the interesting and essential functions, a thorough analysis of the CSN subunits in evolutionary comparative perspective is missing. Here we compared 61 eukaryotic genomes including plants, animals, and yeasts genomes and show that the most conserved subunits of eukaryotes among the nine subunits are CSN2 and CSN5. This may indicate a strong evolutionary selection for these two subunits. Despite the strong conservation of the protein sequence, the genomic structures of the intron/exon boundaries indicate no conservation at genomic level. This suggests that the gene structure is exposed to a much less selection compared with the protein sequence. We also show the conservation of important active domains, such as PCI (proteasome lid-CSN-initiation factor) and MPN (MPR1/PAD1 amino-terminal). We identified novel exons and alternative splicing variants for all CSN subunits. This indicates another level of complexity of the CSN. Notably, most COP9-subunits were identified in all multicellular and unicellular eukaryotic organisms analyzed, but not in prokaryotes or archaeas. Thus, genes encoding CSN subunits present in all analyzed eukaryotes indicate the invention of the signalosome at the root of eukaryotes. The identification of alternative splice variants indicates possible "mini-complexes" or COP9 complexes with independent subunits containing potentially novel and not yet identified functions. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Molecular Biology and Evolution.

The Evolution of COP9 Signalosome in Unicellular and Multicellular Organisms

PubMed Central

Barth, Emanuel; Hübler, Ron; Baniahmad, Aria; Marz, Manja

2016-01-01

The COP9 signalosome (CSN) is a highly conserved protein complex, recently being crystallized for human. In mammals and plants the COP9 complex consists of nine subunits, CSN 1–8 and CSNAP. The CSN regulates the activity of culling ring E3 ubiquitin and plays central roles in pleiotropy, cell cycle, and defense of pathogens. Despite the interesting and essential functions, a thorough analysis of the CSN subunits in evolutionary comparative perspective is missing. Here we compared 61 eukaryotic genomes including plants, animals, and yeasts genomes and show that the most conserved subunits of eukaryotes among the nine subunits are CSN2 and CSN5. This may indicate a strong evolutionary selection for these two subunits. Despite the strong conservation of the protein sequence, the genomic structures of the intron/exon boundaries indicate no conservation at genomic level. This suggests that the gene structure is exposed to a much less selection compared with the protein sequence. We also show the conservation of important active domains, such as PCI (proteasome lid-CSN-initiation factor) and MPN (MPR1/PAD1 amino-terminal). We identified novel exons and alternative splicing variants for all CSN subunits. This indicates another level of complexity of the CSN. Notably, most COP9-subunits were identified in all multicellular and unicellular eukaryotic organisms analyzed, but not in prokaryotes or archaeas. Thus, genes encoding CSN subunits present in all analyzed eukaryotes indicate the invention of the signalosome at the root of eukaryotes. The identification of alternative splice variants indicates possible “mini-complexes” or COP9 complexes with independent subunits containing potentially novel and not yet identified functions. PMID:27044515

Footwear and Foam Surface Alter Gait Initiation of Typical Subjects

PubMed Central

Vieira, Marcus Fraga; Sacco, Isabel de Camargo Neves; Nora, Fernanda Grazielle da Silva Azevedo; Rosenbaum, Dieter; Lobo da Costa, Paula Hentschel

2015-01-01

Gait initiation is the task commonly used to investigate the anticipatory postural adjustments necessary to begin a new gait cycle from the standing position. In this study, we analyzed whether and how foot-floor interface characteristics influence the gait initiation process. For this purpose, 25 undergraduate students were evaluated while performing a gait initiation task in three experimental conditions: barefoot on a hard surface (barefoot condition), barefoot on a soft surface (foam condition), and shod on a hard surface (shod condition). Two force plates were used to acquire ground reaction forces and moments for each foot separately. A statistical parametric mapping (SPM) analysis was performed in COP time series. We compared the anterior-posterior (AP) and medial-lateral (ML) resultant center of pressure (COP) paths and average velocities, the force peaks under the right and left foot, and the COP integral x force impulse for three different phases: the anticipatory postural adjustment (APA) phase (Phase 1), the swing-foot unloading phase (Phase 2), and the support-foot unloading phase (Phase 3). In Phase 1, significantly smaller ML COP paths and velocities were found for the shod condition compared to the barefoot and foam conditions. Significantly smaller ML COP paths were also found in Phase 2 for the shod condition compared to the barefoot and foam conditions. In Phase 3, increased AP COP velocities were found for the shod condition compared to the barefoot and foam conditions. SPM analysis revealed significant differences for vector COP time series in the shod condition compared to the barefoot and foam conditions. The foam condition limited the impulse-generating capacity of COP shift and produced smaller ML force peaks, resulting in limitations to body-weight transfer from the swing to the support foot. The results suggest that footwear and a soft surface affect COP and impose certain features of gait initiation, especially in the ML direction of Phase 1. PMID:26270323

Myeloid leukemia factor 1 regulates p53 by suppressing COP1 via COP9 signalosome subunit 3

PubMed Central

Yoneda-Kato, Noriko; Tomoda, Kiichiro; Umehara, Mari; Arata, Yukinobu; Kato, Jun-ya

2005-01-01

Myeloid leukemia factor 1 (MLF1) was first identified as the leukemic fusion protein NPM-MLF1 generated by the t(3;5)(q25.1;q34) chromosomal translocation. Although MLF1 expresses normally in a variety of tissues including hematopoietic stem cells and the overexpression of MLF1 correlates with malignant transformation in human cancer, little is known about how MLF1 is involved in the regulation of cell growth. Here we show that MLF1 is a negative regulator of cell cycle progression functioning upstream of the tumor suppressor p53. MLF1 induces p53-dependent cell cycle arrest in murine embryonic fibroblasts. This action requires a novel binding partner, subunit 3 of the COP9 signalosome (CSN3). A reduction in the level of CSN3 protein with small interfering RNA abrogated MLF1-induced G1 arrest and impaired the activation of p53 by genotoxic stress. Furthermore, ectopic MLF1 expression and CSN3 knockdown inversely affect the endogenous level of COP1, a ubiquitin ligase for p53. Exogenous expression of COP1 overcomes MLF1-induced growth arrest. These results indicate that MLF1 is a critical regulator of p53 and suggest its involvement in leukemogenesis through a novel CSN3–COP1 pathway. PMID:15861129

Company observational post-marketing studies: drug risk assessment and drug research in special populations--a study-based analysis.

PubMed

Hasford, J; Lamprecht, T

1998-01-01

Company observational post-marketing studies (COPS) claim to provide essential data about drug risks and effectiveness in special populations not admitted to pre-approval clinical trials. Since COPS are often mainly regarded as a marketing activity, this study-based analysis tries to evaluate the scientific contributions of COPS. Thirty-five COPS were identified by hand-searching through medical journals, writing to pharmaceutical manufacturers and using MEDLINE. Fourteen COPS evaluated cardiovascular drugs, 9 evaluated NSAIDs and 12 evaluated various other indications. Thirty-five COPS listed effectiveness, 31 listed safety and 8 listed patient compliance as principal objectives. Not a single COPS included a control group. Seventeen of 21 evaluable COPS mentioned extensive exclusion criteria similar to those in clinical trials. Median observation time was 8 weeks, too short for chronic diseases and for adverse drug reactions with longer latency periods. One new adverse event was regarded. Global assessments of the outcomes by physicians dominated and were not based on objective clinical findings. None of the studies specified any details concerning the standardisation of observations or quality-control procedures. The current COPS scheme does not contribute significantly to our knowledge of drug safety and the effects in special populations. Despite serious criticism over the past 20 years, the poor quality of COPS compared with dramatic improvements of pre-approval trials - implies a need for detailed guidelines for non-experimental phase IV research, similar to the Good Clinical Practice-Guideline of the European Community.

The Changes of COP and Foot Pressure after One Hour's Walking Wearing High-heeled and Flat Shoes

PubMed Central

Ko, Dong Yeol; Lee, Han Suk

2013-01-01

[Purpose] This study aimed to determine the most appropriate height for shoe heels by measuring the displacement of the COP (center of pressure) and changes in the distribution of foot pressure after walking in flat (0.5 cm), middle-heeled (4 cm), and high-heeled (9 cm) shoes for 1 hour. [Methods] A single-subject design was used, with 15 healthy women wearing shoes with heels of each height in a random order. The foot pressure and displacement of COP before and after walking in an ordinary environment for 1 hour were measured using an FDM-S (zebris Medical GmbH, Germany). [Results] The distribution of foot pressure did not change significantly after walking in middle-heeled (4 cm) shoes but did change significantly after walking in either flat (0.5 cm) or high-heeled (9 cm) shoes. Similarly, the COP was not significantly displaced after walking in middle-heeled (4 cm) shoes but was significantly displaced after walking in either flat (0.5 cm) or high-heeled (9 cm) shoes. [Conclusion] Both flat and high-heeled shoes had adverse effects on the body. Middle-heeled (4 cm) shoes are preferable to both flat (0.5 cm) and high-heeled (9 cm) shoes for the health and comfort of the feet. PMID:24259782

[Predictors of drug-resistant pathogens in community-onset pneumonia: Are factors considered in health-care-associated pneumonia useful in the emergency department?

PubMed

Torres Bonafonte, Olga H; Gil Olivas, Eva; Pérez Macho, Estefanía; Pacho Pacho, Cristina; Mateo Roca, Miriam; Casademont Pou, Jordi; Ruiz Hidalgo, Domingo

2017-10-01

To analyze factors related to drug-resistant pathogens (DRPs) in community-onset pneumonia (COP) and whether previously suggested criteria are useful in our emergency-department. Prospective 1-year study of adults coming to the emergency department for COP. We assessed the usefulness of criteria used in health-care-associated pneumonia (HCAP), as well the Shorr index, the Barthel index, and clinical suspicion of resistant pathogens. Data were analyzed by multiple logistic regression and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). We included 139 patients with a mean (SD) age of 75.9 (15.3) years; 63.3% were men. Forty-nine COP patients (35.2%) were at risk for DRP-caused pneumonia according to HCAP criteria; 43 (30.9%) according to the Shorr index, and 56 (40.3%) according to the Aliberti index. A score of less than 60 derived from the Barthel index was recorded for 25 patients (18%). Clinical suspicion of a DRP was recorded for 11 (7.9%). A DRP was isolated in 5 patients (3.6%) (3, Pseudomonas aeruginosa; 2, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). Multiple logistic regression analysis identified 2 predictors of DRP-caused COP: hospital admission within the last 90 days (odds ratio [OR], 8.92; 95% CI, 1.92-41.45) and initial arterial blood oxygen saturation (OR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.74-0.98). The AUC was 0.91 (95% CI, 0.85-0.98). The model identified 22 patients (16.8%) at risk for DRP-caused pneumonia. The positive and negative predictive values were 20% and 99.1%, respectively, for the model 90-day period (vs 8.7% and 98.9%, respectively, for criteria used in HCAP). Hospitalization within the 90-day period before a COP emergency and arterial blood oxygen saturation were good predictors of DRP in our setting. Criteria of DRP in HCAP, on the other hand, had lower ability to identify patients at risk in COP.

Evaluation of Outcome of Models at Fort Bliss, Texas

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-12-01

15 Sex: M Age: 36 DOB: 5-13-55 Date of Injury: 8-2-91 Formal report received: 6-9-91 Injury: Shoulder strain, rotator cuff tear, and biceps tendon...right rotator cuff . COP: 2 days RTW: Returned to transitional work for two weeks, then to full duty. Job: mason Troop Clinic/WBAMC: All treatment was...flexor tendons of the right wrist; bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome; bilateral tendinitis . COP: 13 days RTW: Return to partial duty after COP. Reassigned

Video game-based exercises for balance rehabilitation: a single-subject design.

PubMed

Betker, Aimee L; Szturm, Tony; Moussavi, Zahra K; Nett, Cristabel

2006-08-01

To investigate whether coupling foot center of pressure (COP)-controlled video games to standing balance exercises will improve dynamic balance control and to determine whether the motivational and challenging aspects of the video games would increase a subject's desire to perform the exercises and complete the rehabilitation process. Case study, pre- and postexercise. University hospital outpatient clinic. A young adult with excised cerebellar tumor, 1 middle-aged adult with single right cerebrovascular accident, and 1 middle-aged adult with traumatic brain injury. A COP-controlled, video game-based exercise system. The following were calculated during 12 different tasks: the number of falls, range of COP excursion, and COP path length. Postexercise, subjects exhibited a lower fall count, decreased COP excursion limits for some tasks, increased practice volume, and increased attention span during training. The COP-controlled video game-based exercise regime motivated subjects to increase their practice volume and attention span during training. This in turn improved subjects' dynamic balance control.

Roles of CONSTITUTIVE PHOTOMORPHOGENIC 10 in Arabidopsis stomata development

PubMed Central

Delgado, Dolores; Ballesteros, Isabel; Mena, Montaña; Fenoll, Carmen

2012-01-01

Stomata are epidermal bi-celled structures that differentiate within special cell lineages initiated by a subset of protodermal cells. Recently, we showed that the Arabidopsis photomorphogenic repressor COP10 controls specific cell-lineage and cell-signaling developmental mechanisms in stomatal lineages. Loss-of-function cop10-1 mutant cotyledons and leaves produced (in the light and in the dark) abundant stomatal clusters, but nonlineage epidermal cells were not affected. Here we examine COP10 role in hypocotyls, cylindrical organs displaying a distinct epidermal organization with alternate files of protruding and non-protruding cells, with the latter producing a limited number of stomata. COP10 prevents stomatal clusters and restricts stomata production in hypocotyls; these roles are specific to lineage cells as in cotyledons, since COP10 loss of function does not elicit stomatal fate in nonlineage cells; COP10 also sustains the directional cell expansion of all hypocotyl epidermal cell types, and seems necessary for the differentiation between protruding and non-protruding cell files. PMID:22836493

Performance analysis for minimally nonlinear irreversible refrigerators at finite cooling power

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Long, Rui; Liu, Zhichun; Liu, Wei

2018-04-01

The coefficient of performance (COP) for general refrigerators at finite cooling power have been systematically researched through the minimally nonlinear irreversible model, and its lower and upper bounds in different operating regions have been proposed. Under the tight coupling conditions, we have calculated the universal COP bounds under the χ figure of merit in different operating regions. When the refrigerator operates in the region with lower external flux, we obtained the general bounds (0 < ε <(√{ 9 + 8εC } - 3) / 2) under the χ figure of merit. We have also calculated the universal bounds for maximum gain in COP under different operating regions to give a further insight into the COP gain with the cooling power away from the maximum one. When the refrigerator operates in the region located between maximum cooling power and maximum COP with lower external flux, the upper bound for COP and the lower bound for relative gain in COP present large values, compared to a relative small loss from the maximum cooling power. If the cooling power is the main objective, it is desirable to operate the refrigerator at a slightly lower cooling power than at the maximum one, where a small loss in the cooling power induces a much larger COP enhancement.

Fast vaccine design and development based on correlates of protection (COPs)

PubMed Central

van Els, Cécile; Mjaaland, Siri; Næss, Lisbeth; Sarkadi, Julia; Gonczol, Eva; Smith Korsholm, Karen; Hansen, Jon; de Jonge, Jørgen; Kersten, Gideon; Warner, Jennifer; Semper, Amanda; Kruiswijk, Corine; Oftung, Fredrik

2014-01-01

New and reemerging infectious diseases call for innovative and efficient control strategies of which fast vaccine design and development represent an important element. In emergency situations, when time is limited, identification and use of correlates of protection (COPs) may play a key role as a strategic tool for accelerated vaccine design, testing, and licensure. We propose that general rules for COP-based vaccine design can be extracted from the existing knowledge of protective immune responses against a large spectrum of relevant viral and bacterial pathogens. Herein, we focus on the applicability of this approach by reviewing the established and up-coming COPs for influenza in the context of traditional and a wide array of new vaccine concepts. The lessons learnt from this field may be applied more generally to COP-based accelerated vaccine design for emerging infections. PMID:25424803

Use of communities of practice in business and health care sectors: A systematic review

PubMed Central

Li, Linda C; Grimshaw, Jeremy M; Nielsen, Camilla; Judd, Maria; Coyte, Peter C; Graham, Ian D

2009-01-01

Background Since being identified as a concept for understanding knowledge sharing, management, and creation, communities of practice (CoPs) have become increasingly popular within the health sector. The CoP concept has been used in the business sector for over 20 years, but the use of CoPs in the health sector has been limited in comparison. Objectives First, we examined how CoPs were defined and used in these two sectors. Second, we evaluated the evidence of effectiveness on the health sector CoPs for improving the uptake of best practices and mentoring new practitioners. Methods We conducted a search of electronic databases in the business, health, and education sectors, and a hand search of key journals for primary studies on CoP groups. Our research synthesis for the first objective focused on three areas: the authors' interpretations of the CoP concept, the key characteristics of CoP groups, and the common elements of CoP groups. To examine the evidence on the effectiveness of CoPs in the health sector, we identified articles that evaluated CoPs for improving health professional performance, health care organizational performance, professional mentoring, and/or patient outcome; and used experimental, quasi-experimental, or observational designs. Results The structure of CoP groups varied greatly, ranging from voluntary informal networks to work-supported formal education sessions, and from apprentice training to multidisciplinary, multi-site project teams. Four characteristics were identified from CoP groups: social interaction among members, knowledge sharing, knowledge creation, and identity building; however, these were not consistently present in all CoPs. There was also a lack of clarity in the responsibilities of CoP facilitators and how power dynamics should be handled within a CoP group. We did not find any paper in the health sector that met the eligibility criteria for the quantitative analysis, and so the effectiveness of CoP in this sector remained unclear. Conclusion There is no dominant trend in how the CoP concept is operationalized in the business and health sectors; hence, it is challenging to define the parameters of CoP groups. This may be one of the reasons for the lack of studies on the effectiveness of CoPs in the health sector. In order to improve the usefulness of the CoP concept in the development of groups and teams, further research will be needed to clarify the extent to which the four characteristics of CoPs are present in the mature and emergent groups, the expectations of facilitators and other participants, and the power relationship within CoPs. PMID:19445723

Reliability and feasibility of gait initiation centre-of-pressure excursions using a Wii® Balance Board in older adults at risk of falling.

PubMed

Lee, James; Webb, Graham; Shortland, Adam P; Edwards, Rebecca; Wilce, Charlotte; Jones, Gareth D

2018-04-17

Impairments in dynamic balance have a detrimental effect in older adults at risk of falls (OARF). Gait initiation (GI) is a challenging transitional movement. Centre of pressure (COP) excursions using force plates have been used to measure GI performance. The Nintendo Wii Balance Board (WBB) offers an alternative to a standard force plate for the measurement of CoP excursion. To determine the reliability of COP excursions using the WBB, and its feasibility within a 4-week strength and balance intervention (SBI) treating OARF. Ten OARF subjects attending SBI and ten young healthy adults, each performed three GI trials after 10 s of quiet stance from a standardised foot position (shoulder width) before walking forward 3 m to pick up an object. Averaged COP mediolateral (ML) and anteroposterior (AP) excursions (distance) and path-length time (GI-onset to first toe-off) were analysed. WBB ML (0.866) and AP COP excursion (0.895) reliability (ICC 3,1 ) was excellent, and COP path-length reliability was fair (0.517). Compared to OARF, healthy subjects presented with larger COP excursion in both directions and shorter COP path length. OARF subjects meaningfully improved their timed-up-and-go and ML COP excursion between weeks 1-4, while AP COP excursions, path length, and confidence-in-balance remained stable. COP path length and excursion directions probably measure different GI postural control attributes. Limitations in WBB accuracy and precision in transition tasks needs to be established before it can be used clinically to measure postural aspects of GI viably. The WBB could provide valuable clinical evaluation of balance function in OARF.

Continuous punishment and the potential of gentle rule enforcement.

PubMed

Erev, Ido; Ingram, Paul; Raz, Ornit; Shany, Dror

2010-05-01

The paper explores the conditions that determine the effect of rule enforcement policies that imply an attempt to punish all the visible violations of the rule. We start with a simple game-theoretic analysis that highlights the value of gentle COntinuous Punishment (gentle COP) policies. If the subjects of the rule are rational, gentle COP can eliminate violations even when the rule enforcer has limited resources. The second part of the paper uses simulations to examine the robustness of gentle COP policies to likely deviations from rationality. The results suggest that when the probability of detecting violations is sufficiently high, gentle COP policies can be effective even when the subjects of the rule are boundedly rational adaptive learners. The paper concludes with experimental studies that clarify the value of gentle COP policies in the lab, and in attempt to eliminate cheating in exams. Copyright (c) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The combination of platelet count and neutrophil lymphocyte ratio is a predictive factor in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Feng, Ji-Feng; Huang, Ying; Chen, Qi-Xun

2014-10-01

The prognostic value of inflammation indexes in esophageal cancer was not established. In this study, therefore, both prognostic values of Glasgow prognostic score (GPS) and combination of platelet count and neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (COP-NLR) in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) were investigated and compared. This retrospective study included 375 patients who underwent esophagectomy for ESCC. The cancer-specific survival (CSS) was calculated by the Kaplan-Meier method, and the difference was assessed by the log-rank test. The GPS was calculated as follows: patients with elevated C-reactive protein (> 10 mg/l) and hypoalbuminemia (< 35 g/l) were assigned to GPS2. Patients with one or no abnormal value were assigned to GPS1 or GPS0, respectively. The COP-NLR was calculated as follows: patients with elevated platelet count (> 300 × 10(9)/l) and neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (> 3) were assigned to COP-NLR2. Patients with one or no abnormal value were assigned to COP-NLR1 or COP-NLR0, respectively. The 5-year CSS in patients with GPS0, 1, and 2 was 50.0%, 27.0%, and 12.5%, respectively (P < .001). The 5-year CSS in patients with COP-NLR0, 1, and 2 was 51.8%, 27.0%, and 11.6%, respectively (P < .001). Multivariate analysis showed that both GPS (P = .003) and COP-NLR (P = .003) were significant predictors in such patients. In addition, our study demonstrated a similar hazard ratio (HR) between COP-NLR and GPS (HR = 1.394 vs HR = 1.367). COP-NLR is an independent predictive factor in patients with ESCC. We conclude that COP-NLR predicts survival in ESCC similar to GPS.

30 CFR 585.705 - When must I use a Certified Verification Agent (CVA)?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... with your SAP under § 585.610(a)(9), COP under § 585.626(b)(20), or GAP under § 585.645(c)(5). (1) BOEM... decision on your SAP, COP, or GAP. (2) If BOEM does not waive the requirement for a CVA, you may file an...

30 CFR 585.705 - When must I use a Certified Verification Agent (CVA)?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... with your SAP under § 585.610(a)(9), COP under § 585.626(b)(20), or GAP under § 585.645(c)(5). (1) BOEM... decision on your SAP, COP, or GAP. (2) If BOEM does not waive the requirement for a CVA, you may file an...

Matrix metalloproteinase-9 involvement in the structural plasticity of dendritic spines

PubMed Central

Stawarski, Michal; Stefaniuk, Marzena; Wlodarczyk, Jakub

2014-01-01

Dendritic spines are the locus for excitatory synaptic transmission in the brain and thus play a major role in neuronal plasticity. The ability to alter synaptic connections includes volumetric changes in dendritic spines that are driven by scaffolds created by the extracellular matrix (ECM). Here, we review the effects of the proteolytic activity of ECM proteases in physiological and pathological structural plasticity. We use matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) as an example of an ECM modifier that has recently emerged as a key molecule in regulating the morphology and dysmorphology of dendritic spines that underlie synaptic plasticity and neurological disorders, respectively. We summarize the influence of MMP-9 on the dynamic remodeling of the ECM via the cleavage of extracellular substrates. We discuss its role in the formation, modification, and maintenance of dendritic spines in learning and memory. Finally, we review research that implicates MMP-9 in aberrant synaptic plasticity and spine dysmorphology in neurological disorders, with a focus on morphological abnormalities of dendritic protrusions that are associated with epilepsy. PMID:25071472

Older adults who have previously fallen due to a trip walk differently than those who have fallen due to a slip.

PubMed

Wright, Rachel L; Peters, Derek M; Robinson, Paul D; Watt, Thomas N; Hollands, Mark A

2015-01-01

Studying the relationships between centre of mass (COM) and centre of pressure (COP) during walking has been shown to be useful in determining movement stability. The aim of the current study was to compare COM-COP separation measures during walking between groups of older adults with no history of falling, and a history of falling due to tripping or slipping. Any differences between individuals who have fallen due to a slip and those who have fallen due to a trip in measures of dynamic balance could potentially indicate differences in the mechanisms responsible for falls. Forty older adults were allocated into groups based on their self-reported fall history during walking. The non-faller group had not experienced a fall in at least the previous year. Participants who had experienced a fall were split into two groups based on whether a trip or slip resulted in the fall(s). A Vicon system was used to collect full body kinematic trajectories. Two force platforms were used to measure ground reaction forces. The COM was significantly further ahead of the COP at heel strike for the trip (14.3 ± 2.7 cm) and slip (15.3 ± 1.1 cm) groups compared to the non-fallers (12.0 ± 2.7 cm). COM was significantly further behind the COP at foot flat for the slip group (-14.9 ± 3.6 cm) compared to the non-fallers (-10.3 ± 3.9 cm). At mid-swing, the COM of the trip group was ahead of the COP (0.9 ± 1.6 cm), whereas for the slip group the COM was behind the COP (-1.2 ± 2.2 cm). These results show identifiable differences in dynamic balance control of walking between older adults with a history of tripping or slipping and non-fallers. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Improvement of the COP of the LiBr-Water Double-Effect Absorption Cycles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shitara, Atsushi

Prevention of the global warming has called for a great necessity for energy saving. This applies to the improvement of the COP of absorption chiller-heaters. We started the development of the high efficiency gas-fired double-effect absorption chiller-heater using LiBr-H2O to achieve target performance in short or middle term. To maintain marketability, the volume of the high efficiency machine has been set below the equal to the conventional machine. The absorption cycle technology for improving the COP and the element technology for downsizing the machine is necessary in this development. In this study, the former is investigated. In this report, first of all the target performance has been set at cooling COP of 1.35(on HHV), which is 0.35 higher than the COP of 1.0 for conventional machines in the market. This COP of 1.35 is practically close to the maximum limit achievable by double-effect absorption chiller-heater. Next, the design condition of each element to achieve the target performance and the effect of each mean to improve the COP are investigated. Moreover, as a result of comparing the various flows(series, parallel, reverse)to which the each mean is applied, it has been found the optimum cycle is the parallel flow.

30 CFR 585.600 - What plans and information must I submit to BOEM before I conduct activities on my lease or grant?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... must submit a SAP, COP, or GAP and receive BOEM approval as set forth in the following table: Before... your COP, according to §§ 585.620 through 585.629. (c) conduct any activities on your limited lease...

Communities of Practice as Agents of Future Faculty Development

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stark, Audriana M.; Smith, Gary A.

2016-01-01

The need for faculty development continues to increase despite the limited resources of many developers to serve growing demands. To address this conundrum, we explore existing literature about communities of practice (CoPs) in higher education and case studies of CoPs at our institution as an avenue to extend and supplement future professional…

30 CFR 585.600 - What plans and information must I submit to BOEM before I conduct activities on my lease or grant?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... must submit a SAP, COP, or GAP and receive BOEM approval as set forth in the following table: Before... your COP, according to §§ 585.620 through 585.629. (c) conduct any activities on your limited lease...

30 CFR 585.600 - What plans and information must I submit to BOEM before I conduct activities on my lease or grant?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... must submit a SAP, COP, or GAP and receive BOEM approval as set forth in the following table: Before... your COP, according to §§ 585.620 through 585.629. (c) conduct any activities on your limited lease...

Good Cop, Bad Cop: Exploring School Principals' Emotionally Manipulative Behaviours

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Berkovich, Izhak; Eyal, Ori

2017-01-01

Research on school principals' behaviours that affect teachers' emotional states is limited. Currently, the focus is primarily on extreme manifestations of mistreatment and emotional abuse; normative daily behaviours, such as emotionally manipulative ones, have yet to be explored. The purpose of the present study is to investigate primary school…

Communities of practice as a professional and organizational development strategy in local public health organizations in Quebec, Canada: an evaluation model.

PubMed

Richard, Lucie; Chiocchio, François; Essiembre, Hélène; Tremblay, Marie-Claude; Lamy, Geneviève; Champagne, François; Beaudet, Nicole

2014-02-01

Communities of practice (CoPs) are among the professional development strategies most widely used in such fields as management and education. Though the approach has elicited keen interest, knowledge pertaining to its conceptual underpinnings is still limited, thus hindering proper assessment of CoPs' effects and the processes generating the latter. To address this shortcoming, this paper presents a conceptual model that was developed to evaluate an initiative based on a CoP strategy: Health Promotion Laboratories are a professional development intervention that was implemented in local public health organizations in Montreal (Quebec, Canada). The model is based on latest theories on work-group effectiveness and organizational learning and can be usefully adopted by evaluators who are increasingly called upon to illuminate decision-making about CoPs. Ultimately, validation of this conceptual model will help advance knowledge and practice pertaining to CoPs as well as professional and organizational development strategies in public health. Copyright © 2014 Longwoods Publishing.

Increased risk for diabetes mellitus in patients with carbon monoxide poisoning

PubMed Central

Huang, Chien-Cheng; Ho, Chung-Han; Chen, Yi-Chen; Lin, Hung-Jung; Hsu, Chien-Chin; Wang, Jhi-Joung; Su, Shih-Bin; Guo, How-Ran

2017-01-01

Carbon monoxide poisoning (COP) causes hypoxic injury and inflammatory and immunological reactions in the brain and local organs including the pancreas. Therefore, it is plausible that COP may increase the risk for developing diabetes mellitus (DM), but studies on this possible association are limited. We conducted a nationwide study in Taiwan to fill the data gap. We used the Nationwide Poisoning Database and the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2000 to identify all COP patients diagnosed between 1999 and 2012 (the study cohort) and then construct a comparison cohort of patients without COP through matching at 1:3 by the index date and age. The risk for DM between the two cohorts was compared by following up until 2013. We also investigated the independent predictors for DM in all the patients. During the study period, 22,308 COP patients were identified, and 66,924 non-COP patients were included in the comparison cohort accordingly. Patients with COP had an increased risk for DM with an adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) of 1.92 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.79–2.06) after adjusting for age, sex, comorbidities, and monthly income, especially in the subgroups of age <35 years, age ≥ 65 years, female sex, and comorbidities with congestive heart failure, hyperthyroidism, and polycystic ovary syndrome. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis showed that the increased risk for DM was highest in the first month after COP (AHR= 3.38; 95% CI: 2.29–4.99) and lasted even after 4 years (AHR= 1.82; 95% CI: 1.62–2.04). We found that COP, older age, male sex, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, hyperuricemia, and low monthly income were independent predictors for DM. Intervention studies are needed to validate the results and delineate the detailed mechanisms. PMID:28969020

Interprofessional Communities of Practice in Continuing Medical Education for Promoting and Sustaining Practice Change: A Prospective Cohort Study.

PubMed

Barker, Megan; Lecce, Julia; Ivanova, Anna; Zawertailo, Laurie; Dragonetti, Rosa; Selby, Peter

2018-01-01

Standard knowledge delivery formats for CME may have limited impact on long-term practice change. A community of practice (CoP) is one tool that may enhance competencies and support practice change. This study explores the utility of an interprofessional CoP as an adjunct to a CME program in tobacco addiction treatment (Training Enhancement in Applied Counselling and Health [TEACH] Project) to promote and sustain practice change. A prospective cohort design was utilized to examine the long-term impact of the TEACH CoP on practice change. An online survey was administered to TEACH-trained practitioners to assess perceived feasibility, importance, and confidence related to course competencies, involvement in TEACH CoP activities, engagement in knowledge transfer (KT), and implementation of new programming. Chi-square tests were used to detect differences in KT and program development associated with CoP participation. Course competency scores from immediate postcourse surveys and long-term follow-up surveys were compared. No significant differences in participant characteristics were found between those who did (n = 300) and did not (n = 122) participate in the TEACH CoP. Mean self-perceived competency scores were greater immediately after course than at long-term follow-up; however, self-ratings of competency in pharmacological interventions and motivational interviewing were higher at follow-up. TEACH CoP participation was associated with significantly greater engagement in KT and implementation of new programming after training. The findings from this evaluation suggest the value of interprofessional CoPs offered posttraining as a mechanism to enhance practice. CME providers should consider offering CoPs as a component of training programs to promote and sustain practice change.

The effects of Pilates exercise training on static and dynamic balance in chronic stroke patients: a randomized controlled trial

PubMed Central

Lim, Hee Sung; Kim, You Lim; Lee, Suk Min

2016-01-01

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of Pilates exercise on static and dynamic balance in chronic stroke patients. [Subjects and Methods] Nineteen individuals with unilateral chronic hemiparetic stroke (age, 64.7 ± 6.9 years; height, 161.7 ± 7.9 cm; weight, 67.0 ± 11.1 kg) were randomly allocated to either a Pilates exercise group (PG, n=10) or a control group (CG, n=9). The PG attended 24 exercise sessions conducted over an 8-week period (3 sessions/week). Center of pressure (COP) sway and COP velocity were measured one week before and after the exercise program and compared to assess training effects. [Results] Pilates exercise positively affected both static and dynamic balance in patients with chronic stroke. For static balance, COP sway and velocity in the medial-lateral (M-L) and anterior-posterior (A-P) directions were significantly decreased in the PG after training while no significant differences were found in the CG. For dynamic balance, measured during treadmill walking, the PG showed significantly reduced COP sway and velocity in the M-L and A-P directions for both the paretic and non-paretic leg. [Conclusions] The findings provide initial evidence that Pilates exercise can enhance static and dynamic balance in patients with chronic stroke. PMID:27390424

ATES/heat pump simulations performed with ATESSS code

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vail, L. W.

1989-01-01

Modifications to the Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage System Simulator (ATESSS) allow simulation of aquifer thermal energy storage (ATES)/heat pump systems. The heat pump algorithm requires a coefficient of performance (COP) relationship of the form: COP = COP sub base + alpha (T sub ref minus T sub base). Initial applications of the modified ATES code to synthetic building load data for two sizes of buildings in two U.S. cities showed insignificant performance advantage of a series ATES heat pump system over a conventional groundwater heat pump system. The addition of algorithms for a cooling tower and solar array improved performance slightly. Small values of alpha in the COP relationship are the principal reason for the limited improvement in system performance. Future studies at Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL) are planned to investigate methods to increase system performance using alternative system configurations and operations scenarios.

A Metal-Free, Nonconjugated Polymer for Solar Photocatalysis.

PubMed

Irigoyen-Campuzano, Rafael; González-Béjar, María; Pino, Eduardo; Proal-Nájera, Jose B; Pérez-Prieto, Julia

2017-02-24

Heterogeneous catalysts that can absorb light over the solar range are ideal for green photocatalysis. Recently, attention has been directed towards the generation of novel solar-light photocatalysts, in particular, metal-free polymers. Herein, it is demonstrated that a metal-free, nonconjugated, anthraquinone-based copolymer (poly[1,4-diamine-9,10-dioxoanthracene-alt-(benzene-1,4-dioic acid)] (COP)) with a strong absorption in the visible region is effective as a sunlight heterogeneous photocatalyst. As a proof of concept, it has been used to mineralize 2,5-dichlorophenol (2,5-DCP) in water under air and sunlight irradiation. The photocatalytic efficiency of COP compares well with that of TiO 2 -P25 when the reaction is carried out in a solar photoreactor in acid medium. Steady-state and time-resolved (absorption and emission) studies performed on COP suspended in 6:4 DMF/H 2 O have provided valuable information about the COP species generated under different pH conditions. Steady-state absorption and fluorescence data are consistent with the existence of a tautomeric equilibrium between the 9,10-keto and 1,10-iminoketo quinoid forms for the anthraquinone in the ground state. Moreover, in basic media, transient absorption measurements showed the presence of two bands ascribed to the tautomeric triplet excited states, whereas only one of the triplets was observed in acid medium. A mechanism for the photocatalyzed degradation of 2,5-DCP by COP is proposed on the basis of these observations. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Salmonella enterica Serovar Enteritidis Core O Polysaccharide Conjugated to H:g,m Flagellin as a Candidate Vaccine for Protection against Invasive Infection with S. Enteritidis▿†

PubMed Central

Simon, Raphael; Tennant, Sharon M.; Wang, Jin Y.; Schmidlein, Patrick J.; Lees, Andrew; Ernst, Robert K.; Pasetti, Marcela F.; Galen, James E.; Levine, Myron M.

2011-01-01

Nontyphoidal Salmonella enterica serovars Enteritidis and Typhimurium are a common cause of gastroenteritis but also cause invasive infections and enteric fever in certain hosts (young children in sub-Saharan Africa, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals). Salmonella O polysaccharides (OPS) and flagellar proteins are virulence factors and protective antigens. The surface polysaccharides of Salmonella are poorly immunogenic and do not confer immunologic memory, limitations overcome by covalently attaching them to carrier proteins. We conjugated core polysaccharide-OPS (COPS) of Salmonella Enteritidis lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to flagellin protein from the homologous strain. COPS and flagellin were purified from a genetically attenuated (ΔguaBA) “reagent strain” (derived from an isolate from a patient with clinical bacteremia) engineered for increased flagellin production (ΔclpPX). Conjugates were constructed by linking flagellin monomers or polymers at random COPS hydroxyls with various polysaccharide/protein ratios by 1-cyano-4-dimethylaminopyridinium tetrafluoroborate (CDAP) or at the 3-deoxy-d-manno-octulosonic acid (KDO) terminus by thioether chemistry. Mice immunized on days 0, 28, and 56 with COPS-flagellin conjugates mounted higher anti-LPS IgG levels than mice receiving unconjugated COPS and exhibited high antiflagellin IgG; anti-LPS and antiflagellin IgG levels increased following booster doses. Antibodies generated by COPS-flagellin conjugates mediated opsonophagocytosis of S. Enteritidis cells into mouse macrophages. Mice immunized with flagellin alone, COPS-CRM197, or COPS-flagellin conjugates were significantly protected from lethal challenge with wild-type S. Enteritidis (80 to 100% vaccine efficacy). PMID:21807909

Cost-effectiveness of laparoscopic versus open appendectomy in developing nations: a Colombian analysis.

PubMed

Ruiz-Patiño, Alejandro; Rey, Samuel; Molina, German; Dominguez, Luis Carlos; Rugeles, Saul

2018-04-01

Colombia is a developing nation in need for efficient resource administration in fields such as health care, where innovation is constant. Since the introduction of laparoscopic appendectomy (LA), direct costs have been increasing without definitive results in terms of clinical outcomes. The objective of this study is to determine the cost-effectiveness of open appendectomy (OA) versus LA and thereby help surgeons in clinical decision-making in a limited resource setting. A retrospective cost-effectiveness analysis comparing OA versus multiport LA during 2013 in a third-level university hospital (Hospital Universitario San Ignacio) in Bogota, Colombia was performed. Effectiveness was determined as the number of days in additional length of stay (LOS) due to the complications saved. A total of 377 clinical histories were collected by the authors and analyzed for the following variables: surgery type, conversion to open laparotomy, complications (surgical site infection, reintervention, and readmission), hospital LOS, and total cost of hospitalization for initial surgery and subsequent complications-related hospitalizations. The total accumulative costs and LOS for OA and LA plus complications were estimated. The cost-effectiveness threshold was set at US $46 (139,000 Colombian Peso [COP]), the cost of an additional day in LOS. An incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was calculated for OA as the comparator and LA as the intervention. The number of LA was 130 and of OA was 247. The two groups were balanced in terms of population characteristics. Complication rate was 13.7 % for OA and 10.4% for LA (P < 0.05), and LOS was 2 days for LA and OA (P = 0.9). No conversions from LA to OA were recorded. The total costs for complications for OA were US $8523 (25,569,220 COP) and US 3385 (10,157,758 COP) for LA. Cumulative costs including cost of surgery and complications and LOS for OA were US $65,753 (197,259,310 COP) and 297, respectively. Similarly, for LA were US $66,425 (199,276,948 COP) and 271, respectively. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was US $25.86 (77,601 COP) making LA a cost-effective alternative with a difference of US $20.76 (62,299 COP) under the cost-effectiveness threshold. LA is a cost-effective alternative over OA with an increasing cost of $25.85 per day of additional hospitalization due to complications saved. This is accounting the low cost of surgical interventions and complications in developing nations such as Colombia. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cobalt porphyrin-mediated oxygen transport in a polymer membrane. Effect of the cobalt porphyrin structure on the oxygen-binding reaction, oxygen-diffusion constants, and oxygen-transport efficiency

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

Nishide, Hiroyuki; Suzuki, Takayuki; Kawakami, Hiroyoshi

1994-05-12

New derivatives of (meso-[alpha],[alpha],[alpha],[alpha]-tetrakis(o-pivalamidophenyl)porphinato)cobalt (CoPs) were characterized by oxygen-binding equilibrium and rate constants of the cobalt centered in the porphyrins. They depended on the structure of the porphyrin; for example, the rate constants of oxygen binding and dissociation (k[sub on] and k[sub off]) for [alpha][sup 3][beta]-CoP[sub 4]P were 3 and 20 times as large as those for [alpha][sup 4]-CoB[sub 4]P, respectively. Oxygen transport through the polymer membranes containing CoPs as the fixed oxygen carriers was facilitated and was affected by the oxygen-binding character or the structure of CoPs. The logarithmically linear correlation of the oxygen-dissociation rate constant of CoPs (k[submore » off] = (3-66) x 10[sup 3] S[sup [minus]1]) with the diffusion constant of oxygen via CoPs fixed in the membranes (D[sub cc] = (3-140) x 10[sup [minus]9] cm[sup 2] s[sup [minus]1]) was given for those six CoP derivatives. 26 refs., 5 figs., 2 tabs.« less

Estimation of Foot Plantar Center of Pressure Trajectories with Low-Cost Instrumented Insoles Using an Individual-Specific Nonlinear Model.

PubMed

Hu, Xinyao; Zhao, Jun; Peng, Dongsheng; Sun, Zhenglong; Qu, Xingda

2018-02-01

Postural control is a complex skill based on the interaction of dynamic sensorimotor processes, and can be challenging for people with deficits in sensory functions. The foot plantar center of pressure (COP) has often been used for quantitative assessment of postural control. Previously, the foot plantar COP was mainly measured by force plates or complicated and expensive insole-based measurement systems. Although some low-cost instrumented insoles have been developed, their ability to accurately estimate the foot plantar COP trajectory was not robust. In this study, a novel individual-specific nonlinear model was proposed to estimate the foot plantar COP trajectories with an instrumented insole based on low-cost force sensitive resistors (FSRs). The model coefficients were determined by a least square error approximation algorithm. Model validation was carried out by comparing the estimated COP data with the reference data in a variety of postural control assessment tasks. We also compared our data with the COP trajectories estimated by the previously well accepted weighted mean approach. Comparing with the reference measurements, the average root mean square errors of the COP trajectories of both feet were 2.23 mm (±0.64) (left foot) and 2.72 mm (±0.83) (right foot) along the medial-lateral direction, and 9.17 mm (±1.98) (left foot) and 11.19 mm (±2.98) (right foot) along the anterior-posterior direction. The results are superior to those reported in previous relevant studies, and demonstrate that our proposed approach can be used for accurate foot plantar COP trajectory estimation. This study could provide an inexpensive solution to fall risk assessment in home settings or community healthcare center for the elderly. It has the potential to help prevent future falls in the elderly.

Estimation of Foot Plantar Center of Pressure Trajectories with Low-Cost Instrumented Insoles Using an Individual-Specific Nonlinear Model

PubMed Central

Hu, Xinyao; Zhao, Jun; Peng, Dongsheng

2018-01-01

Postural control is a complex skill based on the interaction of dynamic sensorimotor processes, and can be challenging for people with deficits in sensory functions. The foot plantar center of pressure (COP) has often been used for quantitative assessment of postural control. Previously, the foot plantar COP was mainly measured by force plates or complicated and expensive insole-based measurement systems. Although some low-cost instrumented insoles have been developed, their ability to accurately estimate the foot plantar COP trajectory was not robust. In this study, a novel individual-specific nonlinear model was proposed to estimate the foot plantar COP trajectories with an instrumented insole based on low-cost force sensitive resistors (FSRs). The model coefficients were determined by a least square error approximation algorithm. Model validation was carried out by comparing the estimated COP data with the reference data in a variety of postural control assessment tasks. We also compared our data with the COP trajectories estimated by the previously well accepted weighted mean approach. Comparing with the reference measurements, the average root mean square errors of the COP trajectories of both feet were 2.23 mm (±0.64) (left foot) and 2.72 mm (±0.83) (right foot) along the medial–lateral direction, and 9.17 mm (±1.98) (left foot) and 11.19 mm (±2.98) (right foot) along the anterior–posterior direction. The results are superior to those reported in previous relevant studies, and demonstrate that our proposed approach can be used for accurate foot plantar COP trajectory estimation. This study could provide an inexpensive solution to fall risk assessment in home settings or community healthcare center for the elderly. It has the potential to help prevent future falls in the elderly. PMID:29389857

Central cooling: compressive chillers

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

Christian, J.E.

1978-03-01

Representative cost and performance data are provided in a concise, useable form for three types of compressive liquid packaged chillers: reciprocating, centrifugal, and screw. The data are represented in graphical form as well as in empirical equations. Reciprocating chillers are available from 2.5 to 240 tons with full-load COPs ranging from 2.85 to 3.87. Centrifugal chillers are available from 80 to 2,000 tons with full load COPs ranging from 4.1 to 4.9. Field-assemblied centrifugal chillers have been installed with capacities up to 10,000 tons. Screw-type chillers are available from 100 to 750 tons with full load COPs ranging from 3.3more » to 4.5.« less

Enforcing the minimum drinking age: state, local and agency characteristics associated with compliance checks and Cops in Shops programs.

PubMed

Montgomery, Jacob M; Foley, Kristie Long; Wolfson, Mark

2006-02-01

To identify state, local and organizational characteristics associated with local law enforcement agencies' implementation of two dramatically different approaches to enforcement of underage drinking laws: compliance checks and Cops in Shops programs. Compliance checks use underage decoys to attempt to purchase alcohol from retail merchants, while Cops in Shops programs deploy undercover law enforcement officers in alcohol outlets to detect and cite persons under the age of 21 who attempt to purchase alcohol. Cross-sectional telephone interview conducted as part of the Tobacco Enforcement Study (TES), which examined enforcement of laws related to youth access to tobacco. Data were collected in 1999 among law enforcement agencies in all 50 states of the United States. Representatives of city police departments, departments of public safety, sheriffs or county police were included (n = 920 local agencies). Alcohol compliance checks and Cops in Shops programs were the primary outcomes. Covariates included state level policies (e.g. beer tax), agency resources (e.g. number of sworn officers) and community demographics (e.g. college dormitory population). Local enforcement agencies were more likely to perform alcohol compliance checks than to have a Cops in Shops program (73.9% compared to 41.1% in cities > 25 000 and 55.7% compared to 23.9% in cities < or = 25 000). Conducting compliance checks for tobacco age-of-sale laws was positively associated with alcohol compliance checks and Cops in Shops (OR 3.30, P < 0.001; OR 1.84, P = 0.001, respectively). Having a Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) officer was negatively related to conducting compliance checks (OR 0.67, P = 0.03). Special community policing units were associated with departments having Cops in Shops programs (OR 1.80, P = 0.006). This study used a nationally representative sample of communities to better understand state and local factors that shape local law enforcement agencies' use of two distinct approaches to underage drinking enforcement. The strong link observed between tobacco and alcohol compliance checks may indicate a culture within some law enforcement agencies supporting strict enforcement of age-of-sale laws.

A positive Babinski reflex predicts delayed neuropsychiatric sequelae in Chinese patients with carbon monoxide poisoning.

PubMed

Zou, Jian-Fang; Guo, Qiming; Shao, Hua; Li, Bin; Du, Yuxiu; Liu, Maofeng; Liu, Fengling; Dai, Lixin; Chung, Min-Hsien; Lin, Hung-Jung; Guo, How-Ran; Yang, Tzu-Meng; Huang, Chien-Cheng; Hsu, Chien-Chin

2014-01-01

As the human population increased in China, the carbon monoxide is a serious environmental toxin in public health. However, predicting the delayed neuropsychiatric sequelae (DNS) of carbon monoxide poisoning (COP) has not been well studied. We investigated the independent predictors of DNS in patients with COP. This study was conducted at four hospitals in China. Data were retrospectively collected from 258 patients with COP between November 1990 and October 2011. DNS was the primary endpoint. A positive Babinski reflex was the independent predictor for DNS: sensitivity = 53.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 26.1-79.6), specificity = 88.6% (95% CI: 83.7-92.1), positive predictive value (PPV) = 20.0% (95% CI: 9.1-37.5), and negative predictive value (NPV) = 97.3% (95% CI: 94.0-98.9). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.712 (95% CI: 0.544-0.880). A positive Babinski reflex was very memorable, immediately available, and applicable in clinical practice. Even when the sensitivity and PPV of a positive Babinski reflex were unsatisfactory, it had a good specificity and NPV for excluding the risk of DNS. In patients without a positive Babinski reflex, the risk for DNS was only 2.7%. This finding may help physicians make decisions about dispositions for patients with COP.

It Ain't Just What You Do and the Way That You Do It: Why Discourse Matters in Higher Education Communities of Practice

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ryan, Juliana

2015-01-01

A number of Australian universities have established and sponsored interdisciplinary communities of practice (CoPs) to develop teaching and learning. CoPs are popularly defined as groups of people who share a passion for something and, together, learn how to do it better. Without further specification, this definition is of limited use in…

Improving Pressure Ulcer Reconstruction: Our Protocol and the COP (Cone of Pressure) Flap

PubMed Central

Edstrom, Lee; Szymanski, Karen; Schmidt, Scott; Bevivino, Jack; Zienowicz, Richard; Stark, Jennifer; Taylor, Helena O.; Podda, Silvio; Liu, Paul

2017-01-01

Background: Surgical treatment of pressure ulcers is challenging for high recurrence rates. Deepithelialized flaps have been used previously with the aim to eliminate shearing forces and the cone of pressure (COP) effect. The goal of this study is to adopt a standardized protocol and evaluate if 2 different flap techniques affect outcomes. Methods: The novel COP flap is illustrated. Twenty patients were prospectively treated with flap coverage over a 36-month period. According to the flap type, patients were assigned to 2 groups: group 1 with 11 patients treated with the COP flap and group 2 with 9 patients treated with conventional flap without anchoring technique. We adopted a standardized protocol of debridement, tissue cultures, and negative-pressure wound therapy. Rotation fasciocutaneous flaps were used for both groups and mean follow-up was 19 months. The COP flap is a large deepithelialized rotation flap inset with transcutaneous nonabsorbable bolster sutures. The 2 groups were comparable for demographics and ulcer location and size (P < 0.05). Five patients showed positive cultures and were treated with antibiotics and negative-pressure therapy before surgery. Results: Recurrence rates were 12% in the COP flap group and 60% in the conventional flap coverage group (P < 0.001). Results were compared at 16-month follow-up. Conclusions: The COP flap significantly reduces recurrences and eliminates shearing forces, suture ripping, and tension on superficial soft-tissue layers. The technique can be applied to both ischial and sacral pressure sores. The flap provides padding over bony prominence without jeopardizing flap vascularity. PMID:28458961

Use of the Nintendo Wii Balance Board for Studying Standing Static Balance Control: Technical Considerations, Force-Plate Congruency, and the Effect of Battery Life.

PubMed

Weaver, Tyler B; Ma, Christine; Laing, Andrew C

2017-02-01

The Nintendo Wii Balance Board (WBB) has become popular as a low-cost alternative to research-grade force plates. The purposes of this study were to characterize a series of technical specifications for the WBB, to compare balance control metrics derived from time-varying center of pressure (COP) signals collected simultaneously from a WBB and a research-grade force plate, and to investigate the effects of battery life. Drift, linearity, hysteresis, mass accuracy, uniformity of response, and COP accuracy were assessed from a WBB. In addition, 6 participants completed an eyes-closed quiet standing task on the WBB (at 3 battery life levels) mounted on a force plate while sway was simultaneously measured by both systems. Characterization results were all associated with less than 1% error. R 2 values reflecting WBB sensor linearity were > .99. Known and measured COP differences were lowest at the center of the WBB and greatest at the corners. Between-device differences in quiet stance COP summary metrics were of limited clinical significance. Lastly, battery life did not affect WBB COP accuracy, but did influence 2 of 8 quiet stance WBB parameters. This study provides general support for the WBB as a low-cost alternative to research-grade force plates for quantifying COP movement during standing.

COP9 signalosome subunit 7 from Arabidopsis interacts with and regulates the small subunit of ribonucleotide reductase (RNR2).

PubMed

Halimi, Yair; Dessau, Moshe; Pollak, Shaul; Ast, Tslil; Erez, Tamir; Livnat-Levanon, Nurit; Karniol, Baruch; Hirsch, Joel A; Chamovitz, Daniel A

2011-09-01

The COP9 Signalosome protein complex (CSN) is a pleiotropic regulator of plant development and contains eight-subunits. Six of these subunits contain the PCI motif which mediates specific protein interactions necessary for the integrity of the complex. COP9 complex subunit 7 (CSN7) contains an N-terminal PCI motif followed by a C-terminal extension which is also necessary for CSN function. A yeast-interaction trap assay identified the small subunit of ribonucelotide reductase (RNR2) from Arabidopsis as interacting with the C-terminal section of CSN7. This interaction was confirmed in planta by both bimolecular fluorescence complementation and immuoprecipitation assays with endogenous proteins. The subcellular localization of RNR2 was primarily nuclear in meristematic regions, and cytoplasmic in adult cells. RNR2 was constitutively nuclear in csn7 mutant seedlings, and was also primarily nuclear in wild type seedlings following exposure to UV-C. These two results correlate with constitutive expression of several DNA-damage response genes in csn7 mutants, and to increased tolerance of csn7 seedlings to UV-C treatment. We propose that the CSN is a negative regulator of RNR activity in Arabidopsis.

Three-Dimensional Sensor Common Operating Picture (3-D Sensor COP)

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-01-01

created. Additionally, a 3-D model of the sensor itself can be created. Using these 3-D models, along with emerging virtual and augmented reality tools...augmented reality 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT UU 18. NUMBER OF PAGES 20 19a...iii Contents List of Figures iv 1. Introduction 1 2. The 3-D Sensor COP 2 3. Virtual Sensor Placement 7 4. Conclusions 10 5. References 11

Current limit diagrams for dendrite formation in solid-state electrolytes for Li-ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raj, R.; Wolfenstine, J.

2017-03-01

We build upon the concept that nucleation of lithium dendrites at the lithium anode-solid state electrolyte interface is instigated by the higher resistance of grain boundaries that raises the local electro-chemical potential of lithium, near the lithium-electrode. This excess electro-chemo-mechanical potential, however, is reduced by the mechanical back stress generated when the dendrite is formed within the electrolyte. These parameters are coalesced into an analytical model that prescribes a specific criterion for dendrite formation. The results are presented in the form of current limit diagrams that show the "safe" and "fail" regimes for battery function. A higher conductivity of the electrolyte can reduce dendrite formation.

Unified trade-off optimization for general heat devices with nonisothermal processes.

PubMed

Long, Rui; Liu, Wei

2015-04-01

An analysis of the efficiency and coefficient of performance (COP) for general heat engines and refrigerators with nonisothermal processes is conducted under the trade-off criterion. The specific heat of the working medium has significant impacts on the optimal configurations of heat devices. For cycles with constant specific heat, the bounds of the efficiency and COP are found to be the same as those obtained through the endoreversible Carnot ones. However, they are independent of the cycle time durations. For cycles with nonconstant specific heat, whose dimensionless contact time approaches infinity, the general alternative upper and lower bounds of the efficiency and COP under the trade-off criteria have been proposed under the asymmetric limits. Furthermore, when the dimensionless contact time approaches zero, the endoreversible Carnot model is recovered. In addition, the efficiency and COP bounds of different kinds of actual heat engines and refrigerators have also been analyzed. This paper may provide practical insight for designing and operating actual heat engines and refrigerators.

Colloid osmotic pressure and extravasation of plasma proteins following infusion of Ringer's acetate and hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.4.

PubMed

Zdolsek, J H; Bergek, C; Lindahl, T L; Hahn, R G

2015-11-01

During fluid infusion therapy, plasma proteins are diluted and leak from the intravascular space, which alters the colloid osmotic pressure (COP) and potentially affects coagulation. We hypothesised that acetated Ringer's and starch solution, alone or in combination, influence these mechanisms differently. On different occasions, 10 male volunteers were infused with 20 ml/kg acetated Ringer's and 10 ml/kg 6% hyroxyethyl starch 130/0.4 (Voluven(®) ) alone or in combination (first with starch solution followed by Ringer's solution). Blood samples were collected every 30-min for measurements of COP, blood haemoglobin, platelets, and plasma concentrations of albumin, immunoglobulins (IgG and IgM), coagulation factor VII (FVII), fibrinogen, cystatin C, activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and prothrombin international normalised ratio (PT-INR). Changes were compared with the haemoglobin-derived plasma dilution. The COP increased by 8.4% (SD 3) with starch and decreased by 26.2% (7.9) with Ringer's. These infusions diluted the plasma by 23.4% (5.3) and 18.7% (4.9) respectively. The COP changes in the combined experiment followed the same pattern as the individual infusions. Albumin and IgG changes in excess of the plasma dilution were very subtle. The intravascular contents of the IgM and platelets decreased, whereas FVII, fibrinogen and cystatin C increased. PT-INR increased by 1/3 of the plasma dilution, whereas changes in APTT did not correlate with the plasma dilution. The starch increased COP and only minor capillary leak occurred in healthy volunteers. The fluid-induced plasma dilution correlated with mild impairment of the extrinsic coagulation pathway but not of the intrinsic pathway. © 2015 The Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Lack of pupil reflex and loss of consciousness predict 30-day neurological sequelae in patients with carbon monoxide poisoning.

PubMed

Zou, Jian-Fang; Guo, Qiming; Shao, Hua; Li, Bin; Du, Yuxiu; Liu, Maofeng; Liu, Fengling; Dai, Lixin; Lin, Hung-Jung; Su, Shih-Bin; Guo, How-Ran; Huang, Chien-Cheng

2015-01-01

Predicting the neurological sequelae of carbon monoxide poisoning (COP) has not been well studied. We investigated the independent predictors of neurological sequelae in patients with COP and combined these predictors to predict the prognosis. This study was conducted at four hospitals in Shandong Province, China. Data were retrospectively collected from 258 patients with COP between November 1990 and October 2011. Thirty-day neurological sequelae were the primary endpoints. A lack of pupil reflex and a loss of consciousness appear to be independent predictors for neurological sequelae in patients with COP. The presence of either one had a sensitivity of 77.0% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 69.3-83.2), a specificity of 47.1% (95% CI: 38.3-56.0), positive predictive value (PPV) of 62.9% (95% CI: 55.2-70.1), and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 63.6% (95% CI: 52.6-73.4). With both predictors present, the sensitivity was 11.5% (95% CI: 6.9 to 18.3), the specificity was 99.2 (95% CI: 94.7-100.0), the PPV was 94.1% (95% CI: 69.2-99.7), and the NPV was 49.0% (95% CI: 42.5-55.5). The risk for neurological sequelae apparently increased with the number of independent predictors. In patients with both predictors, the risk for neurological sequelae was 94.1%. Almost all (99.2%) patients with neither predictor had no neurological sequelae. This finding may help physicians make decisions about and dispositions for patients with COP. For patients with a higher risk, earlier treatment and more appropriate utilization of health care services, including hyperbaric oxygen, should be considered.

Stability of CoP x Electrocatalysts in Continuous and Interrupted Acidic Electrolysis of Water.

PubMed

Goryachev, Andrey; Gao, Lu; Zhang, Yue; Rohling, Roderigh Y; Vervuurt, René H J; Bol, Ageeth A; Hofmann, Jan P; Hensen, Emiel J M

2018-04-11

Cobalt phosphides are an emerging earth-abundant alternative to platinum-group-metal-based electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Yet, their stability is inferior to platinum and compromises the large-scale applicability of CoP x in water electrolyzers. In the present study, we employed flat, thin CoP x electrodes prepared through the thermal phosphidation (PH 3 ) of Co 3 O 4 films made by plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition to evaluate their stability in acidic water electrolysis by using a multi-technique approach. The films were found to be composed of two phases: CoP in the bulk and a P-rich surface CoP x (P/Co>1). Their performance was evaluated in the HER and the exchange current density was determined to be j 0 =-8.9 ⋅ 10 -5  A/cm 2 . The apparent activation energy of HER on CoP x ( E a =81±15 kJ/mol) was determined for the first time. Dissolution of the material in 0.5 M H 2 SO 4 was observed, regardless of the constantly applied cathodic potential, pointing towards a chemical instead of an electrochemical origin of the observed cathodic instability. The current density and HER faradaic efficiency (FE) were found to be stable during chronoamperometric treatment, as the chemical composition of the HER-active phase remained unchanged. On the contrary, a dynamic potential change performed in a repeated way facilitated dissolution of the film, yielding its complete degradation within 5 h. There, the FE was also found to be changing. An oxidative route of CoP x dissolution has also been proposed.

Effects of Endurance Training at the Crossover Point in Women with Metabolic Syndrome.

PubMed

Borel, Benoit; Coquart, Jérémy; Boitel, Guillaume; Duhamel, Alain; Matran, Régis; Delsart, Pascal; Mounier-Vehier, Claire; Garcin, Murielle

2015-11-01

On the basis of theoretical evidence, intensity at the crossover point (COP) of substrate utilization could be considered as potential exercise intensity for metabolic syndrome (MetS). This study aimed to examine the effects of a training program at COP on exercise capacity parameters in women with MetS and to compare two metabolic indices (COP and the maximal fat oxidation rate point LIPOXmax®) with ventilatory threshold (VT). Nineteen women with MetS volunteered to perform a 12-wk training program on a cycle ergometer, with intensity corresponding to COP. Pre- and posttraining values of anthropometric and exercise capacity parameters were compared to determine the effects of exercise training. The pre-post training change of COP, LIPOXmax®, and VT were also investigated. After training, anthropometric parameters were significantly modified, with reduction of body mass (3.0% ± 3.0%, P < 0.001), fat mass (3.3% ± 3.4%, P < 0.001), and body mass index (3.2% ± 3.4%, P < 0.001). Exercise capacity was improved after the training program, with significant increase of maximal power output (25.0% ± 18.4%, P < 0.001) and maximal oxygen uptake (V˙O2max, 9.0% ± 11.2%; P < 0.01). Lastly, when expressed in terms of power output, COP, LIPOXmax®, and VT occurred at a similar exercise intensity, but the occurrence of these three indices is different when expressed in terms of oxygen uptake, HR, or RPE. This study highlights the effectiveness of a 12-wk training program at COP to improve physical fitness in women with MetS. The relations between metabolic indices and VT in terms of power output highlight the determination of VT from a shorter maximal exercise as a useful method for determining metabolic indices in MetS.

The effect of cell phone use on postural balance and mobility in older compared to young adults.

PubMed

Laatar, Rabeb; Kachouri, Hiba; Borji, Rihab; Rebai, Haithem; Sahli, Sonia

2017-05-01

Cell phone use is considered as an essential part of everyday life saturating all age groups and demographics. This study aimed to explore the effect of various cell phone functions on postural control and mobility in the elderly. Twenty healthy older (mean age 72.5±2.9) and twenty young (26.3±2.8) adults participated in this study. Postural balance was assessed by measuring the center of pressure (CoP) displacement with (talking on a cell phone (CONVERSE), dialing a number (DIAL) and listening to music (MUSIC)) and without cell phone use. Mobility was assessed by the Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT). Results showed that for both groups, the CoP parameters increased significantly during the CONVERSE (p<0.001) and the DIAL (CoP area , CoP X : p<0.05; CoP Y : p<0.01) conditions compared to the control condition. Moreover, the CoP area values were significantly higher during the CONVERSE condition in comparison to the DIAL (p<0.05) one. In older adults, the TUGT scores increased significantly in the DIAL (p<0.01) condition compared to the CONVERSE and the MUSIC conditions. In conclusion, cell phone use impairs similarly standing postural balance of elderly and young adults. Interestingly, in the elderly, all cell phone functions used altered mobility with the dialing function causing the largest mobility deterioration. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of Lateral and Medial Wedged Insoles on Knee and Ankle Internal Joint Moments During Walking in Healthy Men.

PubMed

Fukuchi, Claudiane A; Lewinson, Ryan T; Worobets, Jay T; Stefanyshyn, Darren J

2016-11-01

Wedged insoles have been used to treat knee pathologies and to prevent injuries. Although they have received much attention for the study of knee injury, the effects of wedges on ankle joint biomechanics are not well understood. This study sought to evaluate the immediate effects of lateral and medial wedges on knee and ankle internal joint loading and center of pressure (CoP) in men during walking. Twenty-one healthy men walked at 1.4 m/sec in five footwear conditions: neutral, 6° (LW6) and 9° (LW9) lateral wedges, and 6° (MW6) and 9° (MW9) medial wedges. Peak internal knee abduction moments and angular impulses, internal ankle inversion moments and angular impulses, and mediolateral CoP were analyzed. Analysis of variance with post hoc analysis and Pearson correlations were performed to detect differences between conditions. No differences in internal knee joint loading were found between neutral and any of the wedge conditions. However, as the wedge angle increased from medial to lateral, the internal ankle inversion moment (LW6: P = .020; LW9: P < .001; MW6: P = .046; MW9: P < .001) and angular impulse (LW9: P = .012) increased, and the CoP shifted laterally (LW9: P < .001) and medially (MW9: P < .001) compared with the neutral condition. Neither lateral nor medial wedges were effective in altering internal knee joint loading during walking. However, the greater internal ankle inversion moment and angular impulse observed with lateral wedges could lead to a higher risk of ankle injury. Thus, caution should be taken when lateral wedges need to be prescribed.

Post-traumatic changes in, and effect of colloid osmotic pressure on the distribution of body water.

PubMed

Böck, J C; Barker, B C; Clinton, A G; Wilson, M B; Lewis, F R

1989-09-01

The aim of this study was to define the post-traumatic changes in body fluid compartments and to evaluate the effect of plasma colloid osmotic pressure (COP) on the partitioning of body fluid between these compartments. Forty-two measurements of plasma volume (green dye), extracellular volume (bromine), and total body water (deuterium) were done in ten traumatized patients (mean Injury Severity Score, ISS, = 34) and 23 similar control studies were done in eight healthy volunteers who were in stable fluid balance. Interstitial volume, intracellular volume, and blood volume were calculated from measured fluid spaces and hematocrit; COP was directly measured. Studies in volunteers on consecutive days indicated good reproducibility, with coefficients of variation equal to 3.5% for COP, 6.3% for plasma volume, 4.5% for extracellular volume, and 4.9% for total body water. COP values extended over the entire range seen clinically, from 10 to 30 mmHg. Interstitial volume was increased by 55% in patients, but intracellular volume was decreased by 10%. We conclude (1) that posttraumatic peripheral edema resulting from hemodilution is located in the interstitial compartment, with no intracellular space expansion; and (2) that interstitial volume, but not intracellular volume, is closely related to plasma COP.

Hot News: Impact of Low-level Viremia on Treatment Outcomes During ART - Is it Time to Revise the Definition of Virological Failure?

PubMed

Poveda, Eva; Crespo, Manuel

2018-01-01

The level of HIV-RNA in plasma (HIV viral load) is the main marker used to monitor the virological response to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in HIV-infected patients. The threshold used to define virological suppression has historically been dictated by the limits of detection of the commercial assays used to quantify the plasma viral load. Thus, as more sensitive assays have proliferated and become more widely available, the definition has shifted from < 400 cop/mL with the first generation assays, to < 50 cop/mL, to < 20 cop/mL currently. Thanks to the high efficacy of the new treatment combinations, most HIV treatment guidelines have since 2008 established that the goal of ART is to maintain virological suppression below < 50 cop/mL. However, some guidelines have continued to set the definition of virological failure as a confirmed plasma viral load > 200 cop/mL, or even > 1000 cop/mL according to the WHO guidelines for low-income and middle-income countries. Several studies have evaluated the impact of low-level viremia as intermittent episodes (blips) or persistent detectable low-level viremia (50-1000 cop/mL) on treatment outcomes during ART. Some of these studies have suggested a potential role for low-level viremia as a predictor of virological failure, although up to now the data have been insufficient and controversial to guide clinical management. Hermans et al. have recently published the results of a large (n = 70.930 HIV-infected patients) multicenter study (57 clinical sites in South Africa) with a median follow-up for more than 2 years, to evaluate the incidence and impact of low-level viremia (defined as HIV-RNA viral load of 51-999 cop/mL) and its association with virological failure (Hermans et al., Lancet Infect Dis 2018;18:188-97). This large cohort study concludes that overall, patients with low-level viremia are predisposed to subsequent virological failure. The risk of virological failure was 5 times higher for patients with low-level viremia ranging 400-999 cop/mL, and 2 times higher for those with viremia ranging 51-199 cop/mL, compared with patients maintaining viral load suppression (< 50 cop/mL). Interestingly, the risk of virological failure was significantly increased even after a single measurement of low-range low-level viremia ranging 51-199 cop/mL. Selection bias is a potential limitation of this study, mainly due to the inherent heterogeneity in the clinical management and treatment strategies among the 57 participating clinics. Despite this, the large sample size has allowed for performing a very detailed statistical analysis demonstrating the robustness of their conclusions. The results of this large-scale study strongly suggest that low-level viremia should be considered as a warning signal for subsequent virological failure. Given these findings, therefore, the relevance of lowlevel viremia in the treatment outcomes for HIV-infected patients on ART should be recognized and considered in clinical decision-making. Furthermore, current WHO guidelines for low-income and middleincome countries should be revised and updated. Although substantial differences exist in the clinical management and treatment options between HIV-infected patients in high-income countries compared with low-income and middle-income countries, the results of this study call for the revision of the current definition of virological failure as a confirmed viral load of > 200 cop/mL established for most current HIV treatment guidelines. The implementation of new recommendations for the management of low-level viremia may have a huge impact in controlling the HIV epidemic. In the current era of increased efforts toward ending the HIV epidemic, all strategies are needed to help in finally achieving this much-needed objective.

Antimicrobial resistance in coagulase-positive staphylococci isolated from companion animals in Australia: A one year study.

PubMed

Saputra, Sugiyono; Jordan, David; Worthing, Kate A; Norris, Jacqueline M; Wong, Hui S; Abraham, Rebecca; Trott, Darren J; Abraham, Sam

2017-01-01

Methicillin-resistant coagulase-positive staphylococci (CoPS) have become increasingly recognised as opportunistic pathogens that limit therapeutic options in companion animals. The frequency of methicillin resistance amongst clinical isolates on an Australia-wide level is unknown. This study determined antimicrobial susceptibility patterns for CoPS isolated from clinical infections in companion animals (dogs, cats and horses) as part of the first nation-wide survey on antimicrobial resistance in animal pathogens in Australia for a one-year period (January 2013 to January 2014). Clinical Staphylococcus spp. isolates (n = 888) obtained from 22 veterinary diagnostic laboratories were identified by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing for 16 antimicrobials, representing 12 antimicrobial classes. Potential risk factors associated with methicillin resistance in Staphylococcus pseudintermedius isolates from dogs were analysed based on demographic factors and clinical history, including gender, age, previous antimicrobial treatment, chronic and/or recurrent diseases and site of infections. The most commonly identified CoPS were S. pseudintermedius (70.8%; dogs n = 616, cats n = 13) and S. aureus (13.2%, horses n = 53, dogs n = 47 and cats n = 17). Overall, the frequency of methicillin resistance among S. pseudintermedius (MRSP) and S. aureus (MRSA) was 11.8% and 12.8%, respectively. MRSP isolates were strongly associated with resistance to fluoroquinolones (OR 287; 95%CI 91.2-1144.8) and clindamycin (OR 105.2, 95%CI 48.5-231.9). MRSA isolates from dogs and cats were also more likely to be resistant to fluoroquinolones (OR 5.4, 95%CI 0.6-252.1), whereas MRSA from horses were more likely to be resistant to rifampicin. In multivariate analysis, MRSP-positive status was significantly associated with particular infection sites, including surgical (OR 8.8; 95%CI 3.74-20.7), and skin and soft tissue (OR 3.9; 95%CI 1.97-7.51). S. pseudintermedius isolated from dogs with surgical site infections were three times more likely to be methicillin-resistant if cases had received prior antimicrobial treatment. Whilst the survey results indicate the proportion of CoPS obtained from Australian companion animals that are methicillin-resistant is currently moderate, the identified risk factors suggest that it could rapidly increase without adequate biosecurity and infection control procedures in veterinary practice.

Antimicrobial resistance in coagulase-positive staphylococci isolated from companion animals in Australia: A one year study

PubMed Central

Saputra, Sugiyono; Jordan, David; Worthing, Kate A.; Norris, Jacqueline M.; Wong, Hui S.; Abraham, Rebecca

2017-01-01

Methicillin-resistant coagulase-positive staphylococci (CoPS) have become increasingly recognised as opportunistic pathogens that limit therapeutic options in companion animals. The frequency of methicillin resistance amongst clinical isolates on an Australia-wide level is unknown. This study determined antimicrobial susceptibility patterns for CoPS isolated from clinical infections in companion animals (dogs, cats and horses) as part of the first nation-wide survey on antimicrobial resistance in animal pathogens in Australia for a one-year period (January 2013 to January 2014). Clinical Staphylococcus spp. isolates (n = 888) obtained from 22 veterinary diagnostic laboratories were identified by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing for 16 antimicrobials, representing 12 antimicrobial classes. Potential risk factors associated with methicillin resistance in Staphylococcus pseudintermedius isolates from dogs were analysed based on demographic factors and clinical history, including gender, age, previous antimicrobial treatment, chronic and/or recurrent diseases and site of infections. The most commonly identified CoPS were S. pseudintermedius (70.8%; dogs n = 616, cats n = 13) and S. aureus (13.2%, horses n = 53, dogs n = 47 and cats n = 17). Overall, the frequency of methicillin resistance among S. pseudintermedius (MRSP) and S. aureus (MRSA) was 11.8% and 12.8%, respectively. MRSP isolates were strongly associated with resistance to fluoroquinolones (OR 287; 95%CI 91.2–1144.8) and clindamycin (OR 105.2, 95%CI 48.5–231.9). MRSA isolates from dogs and cats were also more likely to be resistant to fluoroquinolones (OR 5.4, 95%CI 0.6–252.1), whereas MRSA from horses were more likely to be resistant to rifampicin. In multivariate analysis, MRSP-positive status was significantly associated with particular infection sites, including surgical (OR 8.8; 95%CI 3.74–20.7), and skin and soft tissue (OR 3.9; 95%CI 1.97–7.51). S. pseudintermedius isolated from dogs with surgical site infections were three times more likely to be methicillin-resistant if cases had received prior antimicrobial treatment. Whilst the survey results indicate the proportion of CoPS obtained from Australian companion animals that are methicillin-resistant is currently moderate, the identified risk factors suggest that it could rapidly increase without adequate biosecurity and infection control procedures in veterinary practice. PMID:28430811

Exercise training at the crossover point improves bodily and cardiorespiratory data but not quality of life in women with metabolic syndrome.

PubMed

Coquart, Jeremy B; Boitel, Guillaume; Borel, Benoit; Duhamel, Alain; Matran, Regis; Delsart, Pascal; Mounier-Vehier, Claire; Garcin, Murielle

2017-01-01

This study investigated the effects of an exercise program at the intensity corresponding to the crossover point of substrate utilization (COP) on anthropometric measures, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and cardiorespiratory fitness (i.e., peak oxygen uptake [V̇O2peak] and peak power output [Ppeak]) in women with metabolic syndrome (MetS). Nineteen obese and post-menopausal women with MetS (age: 54.8±8.1 years, body mass: 89.0±12.2 kg, Body Mass Index: 34.5±4.0 kg/m2) followed a 12-week program consisting of three 45-minute sessions per week of cycle ergometer exercise. The imposed exercise intensity corresponded to COP. Before and after the program, HRQoL, V̇O2peak and Ppeak were measured and then compared. Body mass (89.0±12.2 vs. 86.2±11.0 kg), Body Mass Index (34.5±4.0 vs. 33.4±3.6 kg/m2), waist (106±10 vs. 100±9 cm) and hip (117±11 vs. 114±11 cm) circumferences, waist-to-hip ratio (0.91±0.07 vs. 0.88±0.07), fat mass (43.3±4.6 vs. 41.9±4.6%), fat-free mass (56.7±4.6 vs. 58.2±4.6%), V̇O2peak (16.6±3.4 vs. 18.1±4.1 mL/min/kg) and Ppeak (102±22 vs. 125±27 W) were significantly improved after the exercise program (P<0.05), but HRQoL showed no significant improvement on any subscale (i.e., physical functioning: performance limitation for physical activities including bathing and dressing, role physical: problems with work or other daily activities, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, role emotional and mental health; P>0.05). Although a 12-week exercise program at COP improved anthropometric measures and cardiorespiratory fitness in women with MetS, self-perceived HRQoL did not significantly improve. This finding may be linked to a significant but still insufficient reduction in body mass, probably because COP is too weak exercise intensity to induce important energy expenditure.

miR-132 Regulates Dendritic Spine Structure by Direct Targeting of Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 mRNA.

PubMed

Jasińska, Magdalena; Miłek, Jacek; Cymerman, Iwona A; Łęski, Szymon; Kaczmarek, Leszek; Dziembowska, Magdalena

2016-09-01

Mir-132 is a neuronal activity-regulated microRNA that controls the morphology of dendritic spines and neuronal transmission. Similar activities have recently been attributed to matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), an extrasynaptic protease. In the present study, we provide evidence that miR-132 directly regulates MMP-9 mRNA in neurons to modulate synaptic plasticity. With the use of luciferase reporter system, we show that miR-132 binds to the 3'UTR of MMP-9 mRNA to regulate its expression in neurons. The overexpression of miR-132 in neurons reduces the level of endogenous MMP-9 protein secretion. In synaptoneurosomes, metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR)-induced signaling stimulates the dissociation of miR-132 from polyribosomal fractions and shifts it towards the messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP)-containing fraction. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the overexpression of miR-132 in the cultured hippocampal neurons from Fmr1 KO mice that have increased synaptic MMP-9 level provokes enlargement of the dendritic spine heads, a process previously implicated in enhanced synaptic plasticity. We propose that activity-dependent miR-132 regulates structural plasticity of dendritic spines through matrix metalloproteinase 9.

Over-limiting Current and Control of Dendritic Growth by Surface Conduction in Nanopores

PubMed Central

Han, Ji-Hyung; Khoo, Edwin; Bai, Peng; Bazant, Martin Z.

2014-01-01

Understanding over-limiting current (faster than diffusion) is a long-standing challenge in electrochemistry with applications in desalination and energy storage. Known mechanisms involve either chemical or hydrodynamic instabilities in unconfined electrolytes. Here, it is shown that over-limiting current can be sustained by surface conduction in nanopores, without any such instabilities, and used to control dendritic growth during electrodeposition. Copper electrodeposits are grown in anodized aluminum oxide membranes with polyelectrolyte coatings to modify the surface charge. At low currents, uniform electroplating occurs, unaffected by surface modification due to thin electric double layers, but the morphology changes dramatically above the limiting current. With negative surface charge, growth is enhanced along the nanopore surfaces, forming surface dendrites and nanotubes behind a deionization shock. With positive surface charge, dendrites avoid the surfaces and are either guided along the nanopore centers or blocked from penetrating the membrane. PMID:25394685

Dual function of Rpn5 in two PCI complexes, the 26S proteasome and COP9 signalosome.

PubMed

Yu, Zanlin; Kleifeld, Oded; Lande-Atir, Avigail; Bsoul, Maisa; Kleiman, Maya; Krutauz, Daria; Book, Adam; Vierstra, Richard D; Hofmann, Kay; Reis, Noa; Glickman, Michael H; Pick, Elah

2011-04-01

Subunit composition and architectural structure of the 26S proteasome lid is strictly conserved between all eukaryotes. This eight-subunit complex bears high similarity to the eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 and to the COP9 signalosome (CSN), which together define the proteasome CSN/COP9/initiation factor (PCI) troika. In some unicellular eukaryotes, the latter two complexes lack key subunits, encouraging questions about the conservation of their structural design. Here we demonstrate that, in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Rpn5 plays dual roles by stabilizing proteasome and CSN structures independently. Proteasome and CSN complexes are easily dissected, with Rpn5 the only subunit in common. Together with Rpn5, we identified a total of six bona fide subunits at roughly stoichiometric ratios in isolated, affinity-purified CSN. Moreover, the copy of Rpn5 associated with the CSN is required for enzymatic hydrolysis of Rub1/Nedd8 conjugated to cullins. We propose that multitasking by a single subunit, Rpn5 in this case, allows it to function in different complexes simultaneously. These observations demonstrate that functional substitution of subunits by paralogues is feasible, implying that the canonical composition of the three PCI complexes in S. cerevisiae is more robust than hitherto appreciated.

The Arabidopsis COP9 SIGNALOSOME INTERACTING F-BOX KELCH 1 protein forms an SCF ubiquitin ligase and regulates hypocotyl elongation.

PubMed

Franciosini, Anna; Lombardi, Benedetta; Iafrate, Silvia; Pecce, Valeria; Mele, Giovanni; Lupacchini, Leonardo; Rinaldi, Gianmarco; Kondou, Youichi; Gusmaroli, Giuliana; Aki, Shiori; Tsuge, Tomohiko; Deng, Xing-Wang; Matsui, Minami; Vittorioso, Paola; Costantino, Paolo; Serino, Giovanna

2013-09-01

The regulation of protein turnover by the ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) is a major posttranslational mechanism in eukaryotes. One of the key components of the UPS, the COP9 signalosome (CSN), regulates 'cullin-ring' E3 ubiquitin ligases. In plants, CSN participates in diverse cellular and developmental processes, ranging from light signaling to cell cycle control. In this work, we isolated a new plant-specific CSN-interacting F-box protein, which we denominated CFK1 (COP9 INTERACTING F-BOX KELCH 1). We show that, in Arabidopsis thaliana, CFK1 is a component of a functional ubiquitin ligase complex. We also show that CFK1 stability is regulated by CSN and by proteasome-dependent proteolysis, and that light induces accumulation of the CFK1 transcript in the hypocotyl. Analysis of CFK1 knockdown, mutant, and overexpressing seedlings indicates that CFK1 promotes hypocotyl elongation by increasing cell size. Reduction of CSN levels enhances the short hypocotyl phenotype of CFK1-depleted seedlings, while complete loss of CSN activity suppresses the long-hypocotyl phenotype of CFK1-overexpressing seedlings. We propose that CFK1 (and its regulation by CSN) is a novel component of the cellular mechanisms controlling hypocotyl elongation.

Measurement Of Trailing Edge Noise using Directional Array and Coherent Output Power Methods

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hutcheson, Florence V.; Brooks, Thomas F.

2002-01-01

The use of a directional array of microphones for the measurement of trailing edge (TE) noise is described. The capabilities of this method are evaluated via measurements of TE noise from a NACA 63-215 airfoil model and from a cylindrical rod. This TE noise measurement approach is compared to one that is based on the cross spectral analysis of output signals from a pair of microphones (COP method). Advantages and limitations of both methods are examined. It is shown that the microphone array can accurately measures TE noise and captures its two-dimensional characteristic over a large frequency range for any TE configuration as long as noise contamination from extraneous sources is within bounds. The COP method is shown to also accurately measure TE noise but over a more limited frequency range that narrows for increased TE thickness. Finally, the applicability and generality of an airfoil self-noise prediction method was evaluated via comparison to the experimental data obtained using the COP and array measurement methods. The predicted and experimental results are shown to agree over large frequency ranges.

Using the centre of percussion to design a steering controller for an autonomous race car

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kritayakirana, Krisada; Gerdes, J. Christian

2012-01-01

Understanding how a race car driver controls a vehicle at its friction limits can provide insights into the development of vehicle safety systems. In this paper, a race car driver's behaviour inspires the design of an autonomous racing controller. The resulting controller uses the vehicle's centre of percussion (COP) to design feedforward and feedback steering. At the COP, the effects of rotation and translation from the rear tire force cancel each other out; consequently, the feedforward steering command is robust to the disturbances from the rear tire force. Using the COP also simplifies the equations of motion, as the vehicle's lateral motion is decoupled from the vehicle's yaw motion and highlights the challenge of controlling a vehicle when the rear tires are highly saturated. The resulting dynamics can be controlled with a linear state feedback based on a lane-keeping system with additional yaw damping. Utilising Lyapunov theory, the closed-loop system is shown to remain stable even when the rear tires are highly saturated. The experimental results demonstrate that an autonomous vehicle can operate at its limits while maintaining a minimal lateral error.

CopM is a novel copper-binding protein involved in copper resistance in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803.

PubMed

Giner-Lamia, Joaquín; López-Maury, Luis; Florencio, Francisco J

2015-02-01

Copper resistance system in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 comprises two operons, copMRS and copBAC, which are expressed in response to copper in the media. copBAC codes for a heavy-metal efflux-resistance nodulation and division (HME-RND) system, while copMRS codes for a protein of unknown function, CopM, and a two-component system CopRS, which controls the expression of these two operons. Here, we report that CopM is a periplasmic protein able to bind Cu(I) with high affinity (KD ~3 × 10(-16) ). Mutants lacking copM showed a sensitive copper phenotype similar to mutants affected in copB, but lower than mutants of the two-component system CopRS, suggesting that CopBAC and CopM constitute two independent resistance mechanisms. Moreover, constitutive expression of copM is able to partially suppress the copper sensitivity of the copR mutant strain, pointing out that CopM per se is able to confer copper resistance. Furthermore, constitutive expression of copM was able to reduce total cellular copper content of the copR mutant to the levels determined in the wild-type (WT) strain. Finally, CopM was localized not only in the periplasm but also in the extracellular space, suggesting that CopM can also prevent copper accumulation probably by direct copper binding outside the cell. © 2014 The Authors. MicrobiologyOpen published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

CopM is a novel copper-binding protein involved in copper resistance in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803

PubMed Central

Giner-Lamia, Joaquín; López-Maury, Luis; Florencio, Francisco J

2015-01-01

Copper resistance system in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 comprises two operons, copMRS and copBAC, which are expressed in response to copper in the media. copBAC codes for a heavy-metal efflux–resistance nodulation and division (HME-RND) system, while copMRS codes for a protein of unknown function, CopM, and a two-component system CopRS, which controls the expression of these two operons. Here, we report that CopM is a periplasmic protein able to bind Cu(I) with high affinity (KD ∼3 × 10−16). Mutants lacking copM showed a sensitive copper phenotype similar to mutants affected in copB, but lower than mutants of the two-component system CopRS, suggesting that CopBAC and CopM constitute two independent resistance mechanisms. Moreover, constitutive expression of copM is able to partially suppress the copper sensitivity of the copR mutant strain, pointing out that CopM per se is able to confer copper resistance. Furthermore, constitutive expression of copM was able to reduce total cellular copper content of the copR mutant to the levels determined in the wild-type (WT) strain. Finally, CopM was localized not only in the periplasm but also in the extracellular space, suggesting that CopM can also prevent copper accumulation probably by direct copper binding outside the cell. PMID:25545960

The Copper Homeostasis Transcription Factor CopR Is Involved in H2O2 Stress in Lactobacillus plantarum CAUH2

PubMed Central

Yang, Yang; Yin, Jia; Liu, Jie; Xu, Qi; Lan, Tian; Ren, Fazheng; Hao, Yanling

2017-01-01

Transcriptional factors (TFs) play important roles in the responses to oxidative, acid, and other environmental stresses in Gram-positive bacteria, but the regulatory mechanism of TFs involved in oxidative stress remains unknown in lactic acid bacteria. In the present work, homologous overexpression strains with 43 TFs were constructed in the Lactobacillus plantarum CAUH2 parent strain. The strain overexpressing CopR displayed the highest sensitivity and a 110-fold decrease in survival rate under H2O2 challenge. The importance of CopR in the response to H2O2 stress was further confirmed by a 10.8-fold increase in the survival of a copR insertion mutant. In silico analysis of the genes flanking copR revealed putative CopR-binding “cop box” sequences in the promoter region of the adjacent gene copB encoding a Cu2+-exporting ATPase. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) analysis demonstrated the specific binding of CopR with copB in vitro, suggesting copB is a target gene of CopR in L. plantarum. The role of CopB involved in oxidative stress was verified by the significantly decreased survival in the copB mutant. Furthermore, a growth defect in copper-containing medium demonstrated that CopB functions as an export ATPase for copper ions. Furthermore, EMSAs revealed that CopR functions as a regulator that negatively regulates copB gene and Cu2+ serves as inducer of CopR to activate the expression of CopB in response to H2O2 stress in L. plantarum CAUH2. Our findings indicated that CopR plays an important role in enhancing oxidative resistance by regulating copB to modulate copper homeostasis. PMID:29089937

Activity-Dependent Exocytosis of Lysosomes Regulates the Structural Plasticity of Dendritic Spines.

PubMed

Padamsey, Zahid; McGuinness, Lindsay; Bardo, Scott J; Reinhart, Marcia; Tong, Rudi; Hedegaard, Anne; Hart, Michael L; Emptage, Nigel J

2017-01-04

Lysosomes have traditionally been viewed as degradative organelles, although a growing body of evidence suggests that they can function as Ca 2+ stores. Here we examined the function of these stores in hippocampal pyramidal neurons. We found that back-propagating action potentials (bpAPs) could elicit Ca 2+ release from lysosomes in the dendrites. This Ca 2+ release triggered the fusion of lysosomes with the plasma membrane, resulting in the release of Cathepsin B. Cathepsin B increased the activity of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), an enzyme involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling and synaptic plasticity. Inhibition of either lysosomal Ca 2+ signaling or Cathepsin B release prevented the maintenance of dendritic spine growth induced by Hebbian activity. This impairment could be rescued by exogenous application of active MMP-9. Our findings suggest that activity-dependent exocytosis of Cathepsin B from lysosomes regulates the long-term structural plasticity of dendritic spines by triggering MMP-9 activation and ECM remodelling. Crown Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Sense-encoded poly-GR dipeptide repeat proteins correlate to neurodegeneration and uniquely co-localize with TDP-43 in dendrites of repeat-expanded C9orf72 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

PubMed

Saberi, Shahram; Stauffer, Jennifer E; Jiang, Jie; Garcia, Sandra Diaz; Taylor, Amy E; Schulte, Derek; Ohkubo, Takuya; Schloffman, Cheyenne L; Maldonado, Marcus; Baughn, Michael; Rodriguez, Maria J; Pizzo, Don; Cleveland, Don; Ravits, John

2018-03-01

Hexanucleotide repeat expansions in C9orf72 are the most common genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (C9 ALS). The main hypothesized pathogenic mechanisms are C9orf72 haploinsufficiency and/or toxicity from one or more of bi-directionally transcribed repeat RNAs and their dipeptide repeat proteins (DPRs) poly-GP, poly-GA, poly-GR, poly-PR and poly-PA. Recently, nuclear import and/or export defects especially caused by arginine-containing poly-GR or poly-PR have been proposed as significant contributors to pathogenesis based on disease models. We quantitatively studied and compared DPRs, nuclear pore proteins and C9orf72 protein in clinically related and clinically unrelated regions of the central nervous system, and compared them to phosphorylated TDP-43 (pTDP-43), the hallmark protein of ALS. Of the five DPRs, only poly-GR was significantly abundant in clinically related areas compared to unrelated areas (p < 0.001), and formed dendritic-like aggregates in the motor cortex that co-localized with pTDP-43 (p < 0.0001). While most poly-GR dendritic inclusions were pTDP-43 positive, only 4% of pTDP-43 dendritic inclusions were poly-GR positive. Staining for arginine-containing poly-GR and poly-PR in nuclei of neurons produced signals that were not specific to C9 ALS. We could not detect significant differences of nuclear markers RanGap, Lamin B1, and Importin β1 in C9 ALS, although we observed subtle nuclear changes in ALS, both C9 and non-C9, compared to control. The C9orf72 protein itself was diffusely expressed in cytoplasm of large neurons and glia, and nearly 50% reduced, in both clinically related frontal cortex and unrelated occipital cortex, but not in cerebellum. In summary, sense-encoded poly-GR DPR was unique, and localized to dendrites and pTDP43 in motor regions of C9 ALS CNS. This is consistent with new emerging ideas about TDP-43 functions in dendrites.

Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 regulates neuronal circuit development and excitability

PubMed Central

Murase, Sachiko; Lantz, Crystal; Kim, Eunyoung; Gupta, Nitin; Higgins, Richard; Stopfer, Mark; Hoffman, Dax A.; Quinlan, Elizabeth M.

2015-01-01

In early postnatal development, naturally occurring cell death, dendritic outgrowth and synaptogenesis sculpt neuronal ensembles into functional neuronal circuits. Here we demonstrate that deletion of the extracellular proteinase MMP-9 affects each of these processes, resulting in maladapted neuronal circuitry. MMP-9 deletion increases the number of CA1 pyramidal neurons, but decreases dendritic length and complexity while dendritic spine density is unchanged. Parallel changes in neuronal morphology are observed in primary visual cortex, and persist into adulthood. Individual CA1 neurons in MMP-9−/− mice have enhanced input resistance and a significant increase in the frequency, but not amplitude, of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs). Additionally, deletion of MMP-9 significant increases spontaneous neuronal activity in awake MMP-9−/− mice and enhances response to acute challenge by the excitotoxin kainate. Thus MMP-9-dependent proteolysis regulates several aspects of circuit maturation to constrain excitability throughout life. PMID:26093382

Establishment of new design criteria for GlidCop ® X-ray absorbers

DOE PAGES

Collins, Jeff T.; Nudell, Jeremy; Navrotski, Gary; ...

2017-02-20

Here, an engineering research program has been conducted at the Advanced Photon Source (APS) in order to determine the thermomechanical conditions that lead to crack formation in GlidCop ®, a material commonly used to fabricate X-ray absorbers at X-ray synchrotron facilities. This dispersion-strengthened copper alloy is a proprietary material and detailed technical data of interest to the synchrotron community is limited. The results from the research program have allowed new design criteria to be established for GlidCop ® X-ray absorbers based upon the thermomechanically induced fatigue behavior of the material. X-ray power from APS insertion devices was used to exposemore » 30 GlidCop ® samples to 10000 thermal loading cycles each under various beam power conditions, and all of the samples were metallurgically examined for crack presence/geometry. In addition, an independent testing facility was hired to measure temperature-dependent mechanical data and uniaxial mechanical fatigue data for numerous GlidCop ® samples. Data from these studies support finite element analysis (FEA) simulation and parametric models, allowing the development of a thermal fatigue model and the establishment of new design criteria so that the thermomechanically induced fatigue life of X-ray absorbers may be predicted. It is also demonstrated how the thermal fatigue model can be used as a tool to geometrically optimize X-ray absorber designs.« less

Establishment of new design criteria for GlidCop ® X-ray absorbers

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

Collins, Jeff T.; Nudell, Jeremy; Navrotski, Gary

Here, an engineering research program has been conducted at the Advanced Photon Source (APS) in order to determine the thermomechanical conditions that lead to crack formation in GlidCop ®, a material commonly used to fabricate X-ray absorbers at X-ray synchrotron facilities. This dispersion-strengthened copper alloy is a proprietary material and detailed technical data of interest to the synchrotron community is limited. The results from the research program have allowed new design criteria to be established for GlidCop ® X-ray absorbers based upon the thermomechanically induced fatigue behavior of the material. X-ray power from APS insertion devices was used to exposemore » 30 GlidCop ® samples to 10000 thermal loading cycles each under various beam power conditions, and all of the samples were metallurgically examined for crack presence/geometry. In addition, an independent testing facility was hired to measure temperature-dependent mechanical data and uniaxial mechanical fatigue data for numerous GlidCop ® samples. Data from these studies support finite element analysis (FEA) simulation and parametric models, allowing the development of a thermal fatigue model and the establishment of new design criteria so that the thermomechanically induced fatigue life of X-ray absorbers may be predicted. It is also demonstrated how the thermal fatigue model can be used as a tool to geometrically optimize X-ray absorber designs.« less

Colloidal Cobalt Phosphide Nanocrystals as Trifunctional Electrocatalysts for Overall Water Splitting Powered by a Zinc–Air Battery

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

Li, Hui; Li, Qi; Wen, Peng

Highly efficient and stable electrocatalysts, particularly those that are capable of multifunctionality in the same electrolyte, are in high demand for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). In this paper, highly monodisperse CoP and Co 2P nanocrystals (NCs) are synthesized using a robust solution-phase method. The highly exposed (211) crystal plane and abundant surface phosphide atoms make the CoP NCs efficient catalysts toward ORR and HER, while metal-rich Co 2P NCs show higher OER performance owing to easier formation of plentiful Co 2P@COOH heterojunctions. Density functional theory calculation results indicate that themore » desorption of OH* from cobalt sites is the rate-limiting step for both CoP and Co 2P in ORR and that the high content of phosphide can lower the reaction barrier. A water electrolyzer constructed with a CoP NC cathode and a Co 2P NC anode can achieve a current density of 10 mA cm -2 at 1.56 V, comparable even to the noble metal-based Pt/C and RuO 2/C pair. Finally and furthermore, the CoP NCs are employed as an air cathode in a primary zinc–air battery, exhibiting a high power density of 62 mW cm -2 and good stability.« less

Colloidal Cobalt Phosphide Nanocrystals as Trifunctional Electrocatalysts for Overall Water Splitting Powered by a Zinc–Air Battery

DOE PAGES

Li, Hui; Li, Qi; Wen, Peng; ...

2018-01-15

Highly efficient and stable electrocatalysts, particularly those that are capable of multifunctionality in the same electrolyte, are in high demand for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). In this paper, highly monodisperse CoP and Co 2P nanocrystals (NCs) are synthesized using a robust solution-phase method. The highly exposed (211) crystal plane and abundant surface phosphide atoms make the CoP NCs efficient catalysts toward ORR and HER, while metal-rich Co 2P NCs show higher OER performance owing to easier formation of plentiful Co 2P@COOH heterojunctions. Density functional theory calculation results indicate that themore » desorption of OH* from cobalt sites is the rate-limiting step for both CoP and Co 2P in ORR and that the high content of phosphide can lower the reaction barrier. A water electrolyzer constructed with a CoP NC cathode and a Co 2P NC anode can achieve a current density of 10 mA cm -2 at 1.56 V, comparable even to the noble metal-based Pt/C and RuO 2/C pair. Finally and furthermore, the CoP NCs are employed as an air cathode in a primary zinc–air battery, exhibiting a high power density of 62 mW cm -2 and good stability.« less

Total Hip Arthroplasty Bearing Surface Trends in the United States From 2007 to 2014: The Rise of Ceramic on Polyethylene.

PubMed

Heckmann, Nathanael D; Sivasundaram, Lakshmanan; Stefl, Michael D; Kang, Hyunwoo Paco; Basler, Eric T; Lieberman, Jay R

2018-06-01

Wear of the bearing surface is a critical element in determining the longevity of a total hip arthroplasty (THA). Over the past decade, concerns related to modern metal-on-metal (MoM) bearings and corrosion at the femoral head-neck interface have influenced surgeon selection of bearing surfaces. The purpose of this study is to analyze trends in THA bearing surface selection from 2007 through 2014 using a large national database. The Nationwide Inpatient Sample database was used to extract bearing surface data from patients who underwent a primary THA between 2007 and 2014. Patients were grouped by bearing surface type: metal-on-polyethylene (MoP), ceramic-on-polyethylene (CoP), MoM, and ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) bearings. Descriptive statistics were employed to describe trends. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify differences between bearing surface groups. During the study period, 2,460,640 THA discharges were identified, of which 1,059,825 (43.1%) had bearing surface data. A total of 496,713 (46.9%) MoP, 307,907 (29.1%) CoP, 210,381 (19.9%) MoM, and 44,823 (4.2%) CoC cases were identified. MoM utilization peaked in 2008 representing 40.1% of THAs implanted that year and steadily declined to 4.0% in 2014. From 2007 to 2014, the use of CoP bearing surfaces increased from 11.1% of cases in 2007 to 50.8% of cases in 2014. In 2014, CoP utilization surpassed MoP which represented 42.1% of bearing surfaces that year. During the study period, MoM bearing surfaces decreased precipitously, while CoP surpassed MoP as the most popular bearing surface used in a THA. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of a Kinematically-Driven Finite Element Footstrike Model.

PubMed

Hannah, Iain; Harland, Andy; Price, Dan; Schlarb, Heiko; Lucas, Tim

2016-06-01

A dynamic finite element model of a shod running footstrike was developed and driven with 6 degree of freedom foot segment kinematics determined from a motion capture running trial. Quadratic tetrahedral elements were used to mesh the footwear components with material models determined from appropriate mechanical tests. Model outputs were compared with experimental high-speed video (HSV) footage, vertical ground reaction force (GRF), and center of pressure (COP) excursion to determine whether such an approach is appropriate for the development of athletic footwear. Although unquantified, good visual agreement to the HSV footage was observed but significant discrepancies were found between the model and experimental GRF and COP readings (9% and 61% of model readings outside of the mean experimental reading ± 2 standard deviations, respectively). Model output was also found to be highly sensitive to input kinematics with a 120% increase in maximum GRF observed when translating the force platform 2 mm vertically. While representing an alternative approach to existing dynamic finite element footstrike models, loading highly representative of an experimental trial was not found to be achievable when employing exclusively kinematic boundary conditions. This significantly limits the usefulness of employing such an approach in the footwear development process.

Age, gender, and percentage of circulating osteoprogenitor (COP) cells: The COP Study.

PubMed

Gunawardene, Piumali; Al Saedi, Ahmed; Singh, Lakshman; Bermeo, Sandra; Vogrin, Sara; Phu, Steven; Suriyaarachchi, Pushpa; Pignolo, Robert J; Duque, Gustavo

2017-10-01

Circulating osteoprogenitor (COP) cells are blood-borne cells which express a variety of osteoblastic markers and are able to form bone nodules in vivo. Whereas a high percentage of COP cells (%COP) is associated with vascular calcification, low %COP has been associated with disability and frailty. However, the reference range of %COP in age- and gender-matching populations, and the age-related changes in %COP remain unknown. A cross-sectional study was undertaken in 144 healthy volunteers in Western Sydney (20-90year-old, 10 male and 10 female subjects per decade). %COP was quantified by flow cytometry. A high inter-and intra-rater reliability was found. In average, in this healthy population average of %COP was 0.42. There was no significant difference in %COP among the age groups. Similarly, no significant difference was found in %COP with gender, weight, height or BMI. In addition, we identified a normal reference range of %COP of 0.1-3.8%. In conclusion, in addition to the identification of steady levels of COP cells with age, we also identified a normal reference range of %COP, which could be used in future studies looking at musculoskeletal diseases in older populations. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of visual feedback with a mirror on balance ability in patients with stroke.

PubMed

In, Tae-Sung; Cha, Yu-Ri; Jung, Jin-Hwa; Jung, Kyoung-Sim

2016-01-01

[Purpose] This study aimed to examine the effects of a visual feedback obtained from a mirror on balance ability during quiet standing in patients with stroke. [Subjects] Fifteen patients with stroke (9 males, 6 females) enrolled in the study. [Methods] Experimental trials (duration, 20s) included three visual conditions (eyes closed, eyes open, and mirror feedback) and two support surface conditions (stable, and unstable). Center of pressure (COP) displacements in the mediolateral and anteroposterior directions were recorded using a force platform. [Results] No effect of condition was observed along all directions on the stable surface. An effect of condition was observed on the unstable surface, with a smaller mediolateral COP distance in the mirror feedback as compared to the other two conditions. Similar results were observed for the COP speed. [Conclusion] Visual feedback from a mirror is beneficial for improving balance ability during quiet standing on an unstable surface in patients with stroke.

Compact seaweed growth of peritectic phase on confined, flat properitectic dendrites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ludwig, A.; Mogeritsch, J.

2016-12-01

Peritectic alloys form a variety of different solidification morphologies at low growth rates. An alloy with a concentration that corresponds to the hyper-peritectic limit should show a cellular/dendritic solidification of the peritectic phase for growth velocities above the corresponding constitutional undercooling limit. However, due to nucleation retardation of the peritectic phase we observed growth of properitectic dendrites before cellular growth of the peritectic could established. The transition happened via an overgrowth of dendrites with a thin layer of peritectic phase. The observations were made using a transparent, metal-like solidifying peritectic system that was solidified directionally in thin samples. In the gap between the flat dendrites and the tubing walls, the peritectic phase grew with a compact seaweed morphology, whereas in the interdendritic spacing it formed small-curved bumps. At same distance behind the tip region, more and more polycrystalline-like objects appeared at the elongated traces of the compact seaweed morphology.

Balance assessment during squatting exercise: A comparison between laboratory grade force plate and a commercial, low-cost device.

PubMed

Mengarelli, Alessandro; Verdini, Federica; Cardarelli, Stefano; Di Nardo, Francesco; Burattini, Laura; Fioretti, Sandro

2018-04-11

Testing balance through squatting exercise is a central part of many rehabilitation programs and sports and plays also an important role in clinical evaluation of residual motor ability. The assessment of center of pressure (CoP) displacement and its parametrization is commonly used to describe and analyze squat movement and the laboratory-grade force plates (FP) are the gold standard for measuring balance performances from a dynamic view-point. However, the Nintendo Wii Balance Board (NWBB) has been recently proposed as an inexpensive and easily available device for measuring ground reaction force and CoP displacement in standing balance tasks. Thus, this study aimed to compare the NWBB-CoP data with those obtained from a laboratory FP during a dynamic motor task, such as the squat task. CoP data of forty-eight subjects were acquired simultaneously from a NWBB and a FP and the analyses were performed over the descending squatting phase. Outcomes showed a very high correlation (r) and limited root-mean-square differences between CoP trajectories in anterior-posterior (r > 0.99, 1.63 ± 1.27 mm) and medial-lateral (r > 0.98, 1.01 ± 0.75 mm) direction. Spatial parameters computed from CoP displacement and ground reaction force peak presented fixed biases between NWBB and FP. Errors showed a high consistency (standard deviation < 2.4% of the FP outcomes) and a random spread distribution around the mean difference. Mean velocity is the only parameter which exhibited a tendency towards proportional values. Findings of this study suggested the NWBB as a valid device for the assessment and parametrization of CoP displacement during squatting movement. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Measurement of Trailing Edge Noise Using Directional Array and Coherent Output Power Methods

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hutcheson, Florence V.; Brooks, Thomas F.

2002-01-01

The use of a directional (or phased) array of microphones for the measurement of trailing edge (TE) noise is described and tested. The capabilities of this method arc evaluated via measurements of TE noise from a NACA 63-215 airfoil model and from a cylindrical rod. This TE noise measurement approach is compared to one that is based on thc cross spectral analysis of output signals from a pair of microphones placed on opposite sides of an airframe model (COP method). Advantages and limitations of both methods arc examined. It is shown that the microphone array can accurately measures TE noise and captures its two-dimensional characteristic over a large frequency range for any TE configuration as long as noise contamination from extraneous sources is within bounds. The COP method is shown to also accurately measure TE noise but over a more limited frequency range that narrows for increased TE thickness. Finally, the applicability and generality of an airfoil self-noise prediction method was evaluated via comparison to the experimental data obtained using the COP and array measurement methods. The predicted and experimental results are shown to agree over large frequency ranges.

Establishing Correlates of Protection for Vaccine Development: Considerations for the Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccine Field.

PubMed

Kulkarni, Prasad S; Hurwitz, Julia L; Simões, Eric A F; Piedra, Pedro A

2018-03-01

Correlates of protection (CoPs) can play a significant role in vaccine development by assisting the selection of vaccine candidates for clinical trials, supporting clinical trial design and implementation, and simplifying tests of vaccine modifications. Because of this important role in vaccine development, it is essential that CoPs be defined by well-designed immunogenicity and efficacy studies, with attention paid to benefits and limitations. The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) field is unique in that a great deal of information about the humoral response is available from basic research and clinical studies. Polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies have been used routinely in the clinic to protect vulnerable infants from infection, providing a wealth of information about correlations between neutralizing antibodies and disease prevention. Considerations for the establishment of future CoPs to support RSV vaccine development in different populations are therefore discussed.

Early-stage reduction of the dendritic complexity in basolateral amygdala of a transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer's disease

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

Guo, Congdi; Long, Ben; Hu, Yarong

Alzheimer's disease is a representative age-related neurodegenerative disease that could result in loss of memory and cognitive deficiency. However, the precise onset time of Alzheimer's disease affecting neuronal circuits and the mechanisms underlying the changes are not clearly known. To address the neuroanatomical changes during the early pathologic developing process, we acquired the neuronal morphological characterization of AD in APP/PS1 double-transgenic mice using the Micro-Optical Sectioning Tomography system. We reconstructed the neurons in 3D datasets with a resolution of 0.32 × 0.32 × 1 μm and used the Sholl method to analyze the anatomical characterization of the dendritic branches. The results showed that, similar tomore » the progressive change in amyloid plaques, the number of dendritic branches were significantly decreased in 9-month-old mice. In addition, a distinct reduction of dendritic complexity occurred in third and fourth-order dendritic branches of 9-month-old mice, while no significant changes were identified in these parameters in 6-month-old mice. At the branch-level, the density distribution of dendritic arbors in the radial direction decreased in the range of 40–90 μm from the neuron soma in 6-month-old mice. These changes in the dendritic complexity suggest that these reductions contribute to the progressive cognitive impairment seen in APP/PS1 mice. This work may yield insights into the early changes in dendritic abnormality and its relevance to dysfunctional mechanisms of learning, memory and emotion in Alzheimer's disease. - Highlights: • Neuron-level, reduction of dendritic complexity in BLA of 9-month-old AD mice. • Specific range of branch decrease in density of 6-month-old AD mice. • 3D imaging with high resolution will provide insights into brain aging.« less

The devil is in the details: comparison between COP9 signalosome (CSN) and the LID of the 26S proteasome.

PubMed

Meister, Cindy; Gulko, Miriam Kolog; Köhler, Anna M; Braus, Gerhard H

2016-02-01

The COP9 signalosome (CSN) and the proteasomal LID are conserved macromolecular complexes composed of at least eight subunits with molecular weights of approximately 350 kDa. CSN and LID are part of the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway and cleave isopeptide linkages of lysine side chains on target proteins. CSN cleaves the isopeptide bond of ubiquitin-like protein Nedd8 from cullins, whereas the LID cleaves ubiquitin from target proteins sentenced for degradation. CSN and LID are structurally and functionally similar but the order of the assembly pathway seems to be different. The assembly differs in at least the last subunit joining the pre-assembled subcomplex. This review addresses the similarities and differences in structure, function and assembly of CSN and LID.

Wnt-5a/Frizzled9 Receptor Signaling through the Gαo-Gβγ Complex Regulates Dendritic Spine Formation.

PubMed

Ramírez, Valerie T; Ramos-Fernández, Eva; Henríquez, Juan Pablo; Lorenzo, Alfredo; Inestrosa, Nibaldo C

2016-09-02

Wnt ligands play crucial roles in the development and regulation of synapse structure and function. Specifically, Wnt-5a acts as a secreted growth factor that regulates dendritic spine formation in rodent hippocampal neurons, resulting in postsynaptic development that promotes the clustering of the PSD-95 (postsynaptic density protein 95). Here, we focused on the early events occurring after the interaction between Wnt-5a and its Frizzled receptor at the neuronal cell surface. Additionally, we studied the role of heterotrimeric G proteins in Wnt-5a-dependent synaptic development. We report that FZD9 (Frizzled9), a Wnt receptor related to Williams syndrome, is localized in the postsynaptic region, where it interacts with Wnt-5a. Functionally, FZD9 is required for the Wnt-5a-mediated increase in dendritic spine density. FZD9 forms a precoupled complex with Gαo under basal conditions that dissociates after Wnt-5a stimulation. Accordingly, we found that G protein inhibition abrogates the Wnt-5a-dependent pathway in hippocampal neurons. In particular, the activation of Gαo appears to be a key factor controlling the Wnt-5a-induced dendritic spine density. In addition, we found that Gβγ is required for the Wnt-5a-mediated increase in cytosolic calcium levels and spinogenesis. Our findings reveal that FZD9 and heterotrimeric G proteins regulate Wnt-5a signaling and dendritic spines in cultured hippocampal neurons. © 2016 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

McMYB10 Modulates the Expression of a Ubiquitin Ligase, McCOP1 During Leaf Coloration in Crabapple

PubMed Central

Li, Ke-Ting; Zhang, Jie; Kang, Yan-Hui; Chen, Meng-Chen; Song, Ting-Ting; Geng, Hui; Tian, Ji; Yao, Yun-Cong

2018-01-01

In higher plants, anthocyanins are protective secondary metabolites, which contribute to the color of leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits, and have been found to have an antioxidant role in human health. In this study, we determined the expression of McMYB10 and its specific E3 ubiquitin ligase, McCOP1, in crabapple leaves during the course of a day and in five leaf development stages. Interestingly, the results showed that the transcription level of McCOP1 genes was higher in daylight than at night, and the transcripts of McMYB10 presented a positive correlation with the transcription of McCOP1-1 and McCOP1-2 and anthocyanin accumulation in a crabapple cultivar with red-colored leaves. Several MYB transcription factor (TF) binding sites of the MYBCORE type were found in the McCOP1-1 and McCOP1-2 promoters, and we deduced that there may be a relationship between McMYB10 and McCOP1-1 and McCOP1-2 at the transcriptional level. Yeast one hybrid (Y1H) and electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) demonstrated that the McMYB10 TF binds specifically to the promoter of McCOP1-1 and McCOP1-2. Furthermore, increased levels of McMYB10 promoted anthocyanin biosynthesis and the expression level of McCOP1-1 and McCOP1-2 in crabapple leaves during continuous light treatments, and overexpression or silencing of McMYB10 in crabapple leaves and apple fruits also result in an increase or decrease, respectively, in the expression of McCOP1-1 and McCOP1-2 and in anthocyanin biosynthesis. Our results reveal a new self-regulation mechanism in where McMYB10 modulates its own expression by activating McCOP1-1 and McCOP1-2 expression to promote ubiquitination of the McMYB10 protein by McCOP1. PMID:29915606

Does a minimal invasive approach reduce anterior chest wall numbness and postoperative pain in plate fixation of clavicle fractures?

PubMed

Beirer, Marc; Postl, Lukas; Crönlein, Moritz; Siebenlist, Sebastian; Huber-Wagner, Stefan; Braun, Karl F; Biberthaler, Peter; Kirchhoff, Chlodwig

2015-05-28

Fractures of the clavicle present very common injuries with a peak of incidence in young active patients. Recently published randomized clinical trials demonstrated an improved functional outcome and a lower rate of nonunions in comparison to non-operative treatment. Anterior chest wall numbness due to injury of the supraclavicular nerve and postoperative pain constitute common surgery related complications in plate fixation of displaced clavicle fractures. We recently developed a technique for mini open plating (MOP) of the clavicle to reduce postoperative numbness and pain. The purpose of this study was to analyze the size of anterior chest wall numbness and the intensity of postoperative pain in MOP in comparison to conventional open plating (COP) of clavicle fractures. 24 patients (mean age 38.2 ± 14.2 yrs.) with a displaced fracture of the clavicle (Orthopaedic Trauma Association B1.2-C1.2) surgically treated using a locking compression plate (LCP) were enrolled. 12 patients underwent MOP and another 12 patients COP. Anterior chest wall numbness was measured with a transparency grid on the second postoperative day and at the six months follow-up. Postoperative pain was evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Mean ratio of skin incision length to plate length was 0.61 ± 0.04 in the MOP group and 0.85 ± 0.06 in the COP group (p < 0.05). Mean ratio of the area of anterior chest wall numbness to plate length was postoperative 7.6 ± 5.9 (six months follow-up 4.7 ± 3.9) in the MOP group and 22.1 ± 19.1 (16.9 ± 14.1) in the COP group (p < 0.05). Mean VAS was 2.6 ± 1.4 points in the MOP group and 3.4 ± 1.6 points in the COP group (p = 0.20). In our study, MOP significantly reduced anterior chest wall numbness in comparison to a conventional open approach postoperative as well as at the six months follow-up. Postoperative pain tended to be lower in the MOP group, however this difference was not statistically significant. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02247778 . Registered 21 September 2014.

Characterization of a novel composite staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec-SCCcad/ars/cop) in the neonatal sepsis-associated Staphylococcus capitis pulsotype NRCS-A.

PubMed

Martins Simões, P; Rasigade, J-P; Lemriss, H; Butin, M; Ginevra, C; Lemriss, S; Goering, R V; Ibrahimi, A; Picaud, J C; El Kabbaj, S; Vandenesch, F; Laurent, F

2013-12-01

Multiresistant Staphylococcus capitis pulsotype NRCS-A has been reported to be a major pathogen causing nosocomial bacteremia in preterm infants. We report that the NRCS-A strain CR01 harbors a novel 60.9-kb composite staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) element, composed of an SCCmec with strong homologies to Staphylococcus aureus ST398 SCCmec and of an SCCcad/ars/cop harboring resistance genes for cadmium, arsenic, and copper. Whole-genome-based comparisons of published S. capitis strains suggest that strain CR01 acquired the two elements independently.

The Pea light-independent photomorphogenesis1 Mutant Results from Partial Duplication of COP1 Generating an Internal Promoter and Producing Two Distinct Transcripts

PubMed Central

Sullivan, James A.; Gray, John C.

2000-01-01

The pea lip1 (light-independent photomorphogenesis1) mutant shows many of the characteristics of light-grown development when grown in continuous darkness. To investigate the identity of LIP1, cDNAs encoding the pea homolog of COP1, a repressor of photomorphogenesis identified in Arabidopsis, were isolated from wild-type and lip1 pea seedlings. lip1 seedlings contained a wild-type COP1 transcript as well as a larger COP1′ transcript that contained an internal in-frame duplication of 894 bp. The COP1′ transcript segregated with the lip1 phenotype in F2 seedlings and could be translated in vitro to produce a protein of ∼100 kD. The COP1 gene in lip1 peas contained a 7.5-kb duplication, consisting of exons 1 to 7 of the wild-type sequence, located 2.5 kb upstream of a region of genomic DNA identical to the wild-type COP1 DNA sequence. Transcription and splicing of the mutant COP1 gene was predicted to produce the COP1′ transcript, whereas transcription from an internal promoter in the 2.5-kb region of DNA located between the duplicated regions of COP1 would produce the wild-type COP1 transcript. The presence of small quantities of wild-type COP1 transcripts may reduce the severity of the phenotype produced by the mutated COP1′ protein. The genomic DNA sequences of the COP1 gene from wild-type and lip1 peas and the cDNA sequences of COP1 and COP1′ transcripts have been submitted to the EMBL database under the EMBL accession numbers AJ276591, AJ276592, AJ289773, and AJ289774, respectively. PMID:11041887

The CopRS Two-Component System Is Responsible for Resistance to Copper in the Cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 68031[C][W][OA

PubMed Central

Giner-Lamia, Joaquín; López-Maury, Luis; Reyes, José C.; Florencio, Francisco J.

2012-01-01

Photosynthetic organisms need copper for cytochrome oxidase and for plastocyanin in the fundamental processes of respiration and photosynthesis. However, excess of free copper is detrimental inside the cells and therefore organisms have developed homeostatic mechanisms to tightly regulate its acquisition, sequestration, and efflux. Herein we show that the CopRS two-component system (also known as Hik31-Rre34) is essential for copper resistance in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. It regulates expression of a putative heavy-metal efflux-resistance nodulation and division type copper efflux system (encoded by copBAC) as well as its own expression (in the copMRS operon) in response to the presence of copper in the media. Mutants in this two-component system or the efflux system render cells more sensitive to the presence of copper in the media and accumulate more intracellular copper than the wild type. Furthermore, CopS periplasmic domain is able to bind copper, suggesting that CopS could be able to detect copper directly. Both operons (copMRS and copBAC) are also induced by the photosynthetic inhibitor 2,5-dibromo-3-methyl-6-isopropyl-p-benzoquinone but this induction requires the presence of copper in the media. The reduced response of two mutant strains to copper, one lacking plastocyanin and a second one impaired in copper transport to the thylakoid, due to the absence of the PI-type ATPases PacS and CtaA, suggests that CopS can detect intracellular copper. In addition, a tagged version of CopS with a triple HA epitope localizes to both the plasma and the thylakoid membranes, suggesting that CopS could be involved in copper detection in both the periplasm and the thylakoid lumen. PMID:22715108

The CopRS two-component system is responsible for resistance to copper in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803.

PubMed

Giner-Lamia, Joaquín; López-Maury, Luis; Reyes, José C; Florencio, Francisco J

2012-08-01

Photosynthetic organisms need copper for cytochrome oxidase and for plastocyanin in the fundamental processes of respiration and photosynthesis. However, excess of free copper is detrimental inside the cells and therefore organisms have developed homeostatic mechanisms to tightly regulate its acquisition, sequestration, and efflux. Herein we show that the CopRS two-component system (also known as Hik31-Rre34) is essential for copper resistance in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. It regulates expression of a putative heavy-metal efflux-resistance nodulation and division type copper efflux system (encoded by copBAC) as well as its own expression (in the copMRS operon) in response to the presence of copper in the media. Mutants in this two-component system or the efflux system render cells more sensitive to the presence of copper in the media and accumulate more intracellular copper than the wild type. Furthermore, CopS periplasmic domain is able to bind copper, suggesting that CopS could be able to detect copper directly. Both operons (copMRS and copBAC) are also induced by the photosynthetic inhibitor 2,5-dibromo-3-methyl-6-isopropyl-p-benzoquinone but this induction requires the presence of copper in the media. The reduced response of two mutant strains to copper, one lacking plastocyanin and a second one impaired in copper transport to the thylakoid, due to the absence of the P(I)-type ATPases PacS and CtaA, suggests that CopS can detect intracellular copper. In addition, a tagged version of CopS with a triple HA epitope localizes to both the plasma and the thylakoid membranes, suggesting that CopS could be involved in copper detection in both the periplasm and the thylakoid lumen.

20 CFR 10.223 - Are there other circumstances under which OWCP will not authorize payment of COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... will not authorize payment of COP? 10.223 Section 10.223 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF WORKERS... of Cop § 10.223 Are there other circumstances under which OWCP will not authorize payment of COP... examination required by OWCP, the right to COP is suspended until the refusal or obstruction ceases. COP...

20 CFR 10.223 - Are there other circumstances under which OWCP will not authorize payment of COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... OWCP will not authorize payment of COP? 10.223 Section 10.223 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF WORKERS... of Cop § 10.223 Are there other circumstances under which OWCP will not authorize payment of COP... examination required by OWCP, the right to COP is suspended until the refusal or obstruction ceases. COP...

20 CFR 10.223 - Are there other circumstances under which OWCP will not authorize payment of COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... OWCP will not authorize payment of COP? 10.223 Section 10.223 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF WORKERS... of Cop § 10.223 Are there other circumstances under which OWCP will not authorize payment of COP... examination required by OWCP, the right to COP is suspended until the refusal or obstruction ceases. COP...

20 CFR 10.223 - Are there other circumstances under which OWCP will not authorize payment of COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... will not authorize payment of COP? 10.223 Section 10.223 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF WORKERS... of Cop § 10.223 Are there other circumstances under which OWCP will not authorize payment of COP... examination required by OWCP, the right to COP is suspended until the refusal or obstruction ceases. COP...

20 CFR 10.223 - Are there other circumstances under which OWCP will not authorize payment of COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... OWCP will not authorize payment of COP? 10.223 Section 10.223 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF WORKERS... of Cop § 10.223 Are there other circumstances under which OWCP will not authorize payment of COP... examination required by OWCP, the right to COP is suspended until the refusal or obstruction ceases. COP...

20 CFR 10.216 - How is the pay rate for COP calculated?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2014-04-01 2012-04-01 true How is the pay rate for COP calculated? 10.216... AMENDED Continuation of Pay Calculation of Cop § 10.216 How is the pay rate for COP calculated? The employer shall calculate COP using the period of time and the weekly pay rate. (a) The pay rate for COP...

20 CFR 10.216 - How is the pay rate for COP calculated?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2013-04-01 2012-04-01 true How is the pay rate for COP calculated? 10.216... AMENDED Continuation of Pay Calculation of Cop § 10.216 How is the pay rate for COP calculated? The employer shall calculate COP using the period of time and the weekly pay rate. (a) The pay rate for COP...

Influence of late gestation drylot rations differing in protein degradability and fat content on beef cow and subsequent calf performance.

PubMed

Wilson, T B; Faulkner, D B; Shike, D W

2015-12-01

Spring-calving, mature cows ( = 191 total) and their progeny were used to evaluate the effects of late gestation drylot rations differing in RUP and fat content on cow performance as well as performance and carcass characteristics of subsequent progeny. Cows were blocked by BW and anticipated calving date and assigned to 16 pens. Pens were randomly allotted to 1 of 2 treatments: limit-fed corn coproducts and ground cornstalks (COP; TDN = 64.4%, CP = 11.1%, RDP = 60.2% of CP, and fat = 5.1%) or limit-fed ground mixed, cool-season grass hay (HY; TDN = 55.7%, CP = 9.5%, RDP = 86.0% of CP, and fat = 2.3%). Treatments were limit fed as isocaloric, isonitrogenous rations from 88 ± 11 d prepartum to calving. All cows were fed a common diet postpartum. Cow BW and BCS were collected at the beginning of the feeding period, within 48 h after calving, and at breeding. Calf BW was collected at birth and at 64 ± 11 and 124 ± 11 d of age. Milk production was determined using the weigh-suckle-weigh technique at 64 ± 11 and 124 ± 11 d postpartum. At 124 ± 11 d of age, steers ( = 68) and nonreplacement heifer calves ( = 25) were weaned and placed on a common feedlot diet with individual feed intake monitored using GrowSafe. Feedlot calves were slaughtered at a commercial facility 35 ± 10 d after a minimum ultrasound 12-rib fat thickness estimation of 0.9 cm. After calving, cow BW was greater ( < 0.01) and BCS was greater ( < 0.01) for cows fed COP than for cows fed HY. Calf birth BW was greater ( = 0.04) for those born to cows fed COP with no difference ( = 0.43) in percentage of unassisted births across treatment. Cows fed HY were lighter ( < 0.01) at breeding with lower BCS ( = 0.03); nevertheless, overall pregnancy rate was not different ( = 0.80). No differences ( ≥ 0.22) in milk production were detected. For feedlot progeny, initial feedlot BW, final BW, and days on feed were not different ( ≥ 0.23), and as a result, no difference ( = 0.21) in feedlot ADG was detected. Feedlot DMI and G:F were not different ( ≥ 0.19) across treatments. Feedlot calf health was monitored with no differences ( ≥ 0.68) in morbidity and mortality observed. No differences ( ≥ 0.27) were detected for HCW, LM area, backfat, marbling score, yield grade, or KPH. Increased dietary RUP and fat content during late gestation increased cow BW and BCS but did not alter milk production, subsequent reproduction, or subsequent calf performance or carcass characteristics.

Streptococcus mutans copper chaperone, CopZ, is critical for biofilm formation and competitiveness.

PubMed

Garcia, S S; Du, Q; Wu, H

2016-12-01

The oral cavity is a dynamic environment characterized by hundreds of bacterial species, saliva, and an influx of nutrients and metal ions such as copper. Although there is a physiologic level of copper in the saliva, the oral cavity is often challenged with an influx of copper ions. At high concentrations copper is toxic and must therefore be strictly regulated by pathogens for them to persist and cause disease. The cariogenic pathogen Streptococcus mutans manages excess copper using the copYAZ operon that encodes a negative DNA-binding repressor (CopY), the P1-ATPase copper exporter (CopA), and the copper chaperone (CopZ). These hypothetical roles of the copYAZ operon in regulation and copper transport to receptors led us to investigate their contribution to S. mutans virulence. Mutants defective in the copper chaperone CopZ, but not CopY or CopA, were impaired in biofilm formation and competitiveness against commensal streptococci. Characterization of the CopZ mutant biofilm revealed a decreased secretion of glucosyltransferases and reduced expression of mutacin genes. These data suggest that the function of copZ on biofilm and competitiveness is independent of copper resistance and CopZ is a global regulator for biofilm and other virulence factors. Further characterization of CopZ may lead to the identification of new biofilm pathways. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Insect peptide CopA3-induced protein degradation of p27Kip1 stimulates proliferation and protects neuronal cells from apoptosis

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

Nam, Seung Taek; Kim, Dae Hong; Lee, Min Bum

2013-07-19

Highlights: •CopA3 peptide isolated from the Korean dung beetle has antimicrobial activity. •Our study reported that CopA3 has anticancer and immunosuppressive effects. •We here demonstrated that CopA3 has neurotropic and neuroprotective effects. •CopA3 degrades p27Kip1 protein and this mediates effects of CopA3 on neuronal cells. -- Abstract: We recently demonstrated that the antibacterial peptide, CopA3 (a D-type disulfide dimer peptide, LLCIALRKK), inhibits LPS-induced macrophage activation and also has anticancer activity in leukemia cells. Here, we examined whether CopA3 could affect neuronal cell proliferation. We found that CopA3 time-dependently increased cell proliferation by up to 31 ± 2% in human neuroblastomamore » SH-SY5Y cells, and up to 29 ± 2% in neural stem cells isolated from neonatal mouse brains. In both cell types, CopA3 also significantly inhibited the apoptosis and viability losses caused by 6-hydroxy dopamine (a Parkinson disease-mimicking agent) and okadaic acid (an Alzheimer’s disease-mimicking agent). Immunoblotting revealed that the p27Kip1 protein (a negative regulator of cell cycle progression) was markedly degraded in CopA3-treated SH-SY5Y cells. Conversely, an adenovirus expressing p27Kip1 significantly inhibited the antiapoptotic effects of CopA3 against 6-hydroxy dopamine- and okadaic acid-induced apoptosis, and decreased the neurotropic effects of CopA3. These results collectively suggest that CopA3-mediated protein degradation of p27Kip1 may be the main mechanism through which CopA3 exerts neuroprotective and neurotropic effects.« less

Comparison of a laboratory grade force platform with a Nintendo Wii Balance Board on measurement of postural control in single-leg stance balance tasks.

PubMed

Huurnink, Arnold; Fransz, Duncan P; Kingma, Idsart; van Dieën, Jaap H

2013-04-26

Training and testing of balance have potential applications in sports and medicine. Laboratory grade force plates (FP) are considered the gold standard for the measurement of balance performance. Measurements in these systems are based on the parameterization of center of pressure (CoP) trajectories. Previous research validated the inexpensive, widely available and portable Nintendo Wii Balance Board (WBB). The novelty of the present study is that FP and WBB are compared on CoP data that was collected simultaneously, by placing the WBB on the FP. Fourteen healthy participants performed ten sequences of single-leg stance tasks with eyes open (EO), eyes closed (EC) and after a sideways hop (HOP). Within trial comparison of the two systems showed small root-mean-square differences for the CoP trajectories in the x and y direction during the three tasks (mean±SD; EO: 0.33±0.10 and 0.31±0.16 mm; EC: 0.58±0.17 and 0.63±0.19 mm; HOP: 0.74±0.34 and 0.74±0.27 mm, respectively). Additionally, during all 420 trials, comparison of FP and WBB revealed very high Pearson's correlation coefficients (r) of the CoP trajectories (x: 0.999±0.002; y: 0.998±0.003). A general overestimation was found on the WBB compared to the FP for 'CoP path velocity' (EO: 5.3±1.9%; EC: 4.0±1.4%; HOP: 4.6±1.6%) and 'mean absolute CoP sway' (EO: 3.5±0.7%; EC: 3.7±0.5%; HOP: 3.6±1.0%). This overestimation was highly consistent over the 140 trials per task (r>0.996). The present findings demonstrate that WBB is sufficiently accurate in quantifying CoP trajectory, and overall amplitude and velocity during single-leg stance balance tasks. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Depletion of ε-COP in the COPI Vesicular Coat Reduces Cleistothecium Production in Aspergillus nidulans.

PubMed

Kang, Eun-Hye; Song, Eun-Jung; Kook, Jun Ho; Lee, Hwan-Hee; Jeong, Bo-Ri; Park, Hee-Moon

2015-03-01

We have previously isolated ε-COP, the α-COP interactor in COPI of Aspergillus nidulans, by yeast two-hybrid screening. To understand the function of ε-COP, the aneA (+) gene for ε-COP/AneA was deleted by homologous recombination using a gene-specific disruption cassette. Deletion of the ε-COP gene showed no detectable changes in vegetative growth or asexual development, but resulted in decrease in the production of the fruiting body, cleistothecium, under conditions favorable for sexual development. Unlike in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, in A. nidulans, over-expression of ε-COP did not rescue the thermo-sensitive growth defect of the α-COP mutant at 42℃. Together, these data show that ε-COP is not essential for viability, but it plays a role in fruiting body formation in A. nidulans.

Optimization for ultrasonic-microwave synergistic extraction of polysaccharides from Cornus officinalis and characterization of polysaccharides.

PubMed

Yin, Xiulian; You, Qinghong; Jiang, Zhonghai; Zhou, Xinghai

2016-02-01

Ultrasonic-microwave synergistic extraction (UMSE) of polysaccharides from Cornus officinalis was optimized by response surface methodology (RSM). The effect of four different factors on the yield of C. officinalis polysaccharides (COP) was studied. RSM results showed that the optimal conditions were extraction time of 31.49823 min, microwave power of 99.39769 W, and water-to-raw material ratio of 28.16273. The COP yield was 11.38±0.31% using the modified optimal conditions, which was consistent with the value predicted by the model. The crude COP was purified by DEAE-Cellulose 52 chromatography and Sephadex G-100 chromatography. Five fractions, namely, crude COP, COP-1, COP-2, COP-3, and COP-4, were obtained. Monosaccharide composition analysis revealed that the COP was composed of glucose, arabinose, fucose, xylose, mannose, and rhamnose. Preliminary structural characterizations of COP were conducted by scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The Ubiquitin Ligase COP1 Promotes Glioma Cell Proliferation by Preferentially Downregulating Tumor Suppressor p53.

PubMed

Zou, Shenshan; Zhu, Yufu; Wang, Bin; Qian, Fengyuan; Zhang, Xiang; Wang, Lei; Fu, Chunling; Bao, Hanmo; Xie, Manyi; Gao, Shangfeng; Yu, Rutong; Shi, Hengliang

2017-09-01

Human glioma causes substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying glioma progression are still largely unknown. COP1 (constitutively photomorphogenic 1), an E3 ubiquitin ligase, is important in cell survival, development, cell growth, and cancer biology by regulating different substrates. As is well known, both tumor suppressor p53 and oncogenic protein c-JUN could be ubiquitinated and degraded by ubiquitin ligase COP1, which may be the reason that COP1 serves as an oncogene or a tumor suppressor in different cancer types. Up to now, the possible role of COP1 in human glioma is still unclear. In the present study, we found that the expression of COP1 was upregulated in human glioma tissues. The role of COP1 in glioma cell proliferation was investigated using COP1 loss- and gain-of-function. The results showed that downregulation of COP1 by short hairpin RNA (shRNA) inhibited glioma cell proliferation, while overexpression of COP1 significantly promoted it. Furthermore, we demonstrated that COP1 only interacted with and regulated p53, but not c-JUN. Taken together, these results indicate that COP1 may play a role in promoting glioma cell proliferation by interacting with and downregulating tumor suppressor p53 rather than oncogenic protein c-JUN.

Antigen-loaded dendritic cell migration: MR imaging in a pancreatic carcinoma model.

PubMed

Zhang, Zhuoli; Li, Weiguo; Procissi, Daniele; Li, Kangan; Sheu, Alexander Y; Gordon, Andrew C; Guo, Yang; Khazaie, Khashayarsha; Huan, Yi; Han, Guohong; Larson, Andrew C

2015-01-01

To test the following hypotheses in a murine model of pancreatic cancer: (a) Vaccination with antigen-loaded iron-labeled dendritic cells reduces T2-weighted signal intensity at magnetic resonance (MR) imaging within peripheral draining lymph nodes ( LN lymph node s) and (b) such signal intensity reductions are associated with tumor size changes after dendritic cell vaccination. The institutional animal care and use committee approved this study. Panc02 cells were implanted into the flanks of 27 C57BL/6 mice bilaterally. After tumors reached 10 mm, cell viability was evaluated, and iron-labeled dendritic cell vaccines were injected into the left hind footpad. The mice were randomly separated into the following three groups (n = 9 in each): Group 1 was injected with 1 million iron-labeled dendritic cells; group 2, with 2 million cells; and control mice, with 200 mL of phosphate-buffered saline. T1- and T2-weighted MR imaging of labeled dendritic cell migration to draining LN lymph node s was performed before cell injection and 6 and 24 hours after injection. The signal-to-noise ratio ( SNR signal-to-noise ratio ) of the draining LN lymph node s was measured. One-way analysis of variance ( ANOVA analysis of variance ) was used to compare Prussian blue-positive dendritic cell measurements in LN lymph node s. Repeated-measures ANOVA analysis of variance was used to compare in vivo T2-weighted SNR signal-to-noise ratio LN lymph node measurements between groups over the observation time points. Trypan blue assays showed no significant difference in mean viability indexes (unlabeled vs labeled dendritic cells, 4.32% ± 0.69 [standard deviation] vs 4.83% ± 0.76; P = .385). Thirty-five days after injection, the mean left and right flank tumor sizes, respectively, were 112.7 mm(2) ± 16.4 and 109 mm(2) ± 24.3 for the 1-million dendritic cell group, 92.2 mm(2) ± 9.9 and 90.4 mm(2) ± 12.8 for the 2-million dendritic cell group, and 193.7 mm(2) ± 20.9 and 189.4 mm(2) ± 17.8 for the control group (P = .0001 for control group vs 1-million cell group; P = .00007 for control group vs 2-million cell group). There was a correlation between postinjection T2-weighted SNR signal-to-noise ratio decreases in the left popliteal LN lymph node 24 hours after injection and size changes at follow-up for tumors in both flanks (R = 0.81 and R = 0.76 for left and right tumors, respectively). MR imaging approaches can be used for quantitative measurement of accumulated iron-labeled dendritic cell-based vaccines in draining LN lymph node s. The amount of dendritic cell-based vaccine in draining LN lymph node s correlates well with observed protective effects.

Antigen-loaded Dendritic Cell Migration: MR Imaging in a Pancreatic Carcinoma Model

PubMed Central

Li, Weiguo; Procissi, Daniele; Li, Kangan; Sheu, Alexander Y.; Gordon, Andrew C.; Guo, Yang; Khazaie, Khashayarsha; Huan, Yi; Han, Guohong; Larson, Andrew C.

2015-01-01

Purpose To test the following hypotheses in a murine model of pancreatic cancer: (a) Vaccination with antigen-loaded iron-labeled dendritic cells reduces T2-weighted signal intensity at magnetic resonance (MR) imaging within peripheral draining lymph nodes (LNlymph nodes) and (b) such signal intensity reductions are associated with tumor size changes after dendritic cell vaccination. Materials and Methods The institutional animal care and use committee approved this study. Panc02 cells were implanted into the flanks of 27 C57BL/6 mice bilaterally. After tumors reached 10 mm, cell viability was evaluated, and iron-labeled dendritic cell vaccines were injected into the left hind footpad. The mice were randomly separated into the following three groups (n = 9 in each): Group 1 was injected with 1 million iron-labeled dendritic cells; group 2, with 2 million cells; and control mice, with 200 mL of phosphate-buffered saline. T1- and T2-weighted MR imaging of labeled dendritic cell migration to draining LNlymph nodes was performed before cell injection and 6 and 24 hours after injection. The signal-to-noise ratio (SNRsignal-to-noise ratio) of the draining LNlymph nodes was measured. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVAanalysis of variance) was used to compare Prussian blue–positive dendritic cell measurements in LNlymph nodes. Repeated-measures ANOVAanalysis of variance was used to compare in vivo T2-weighted SNRsignal-to-noise ratio LNlymph node measurements between groups over the observation time points. Results Trypan blue assays showed no significant difference in mean viability indexes (unlabeled vs labeled dendritic cells, 4.32% ± 0.69 [standard deviation] vs 4.83% ± 0.76; P = .385). Thirty-five days after injection, the mean left and right flank tumor sizes, respectively, were 112.7 mm2 ± 16.4 and 109 mm2 ± 24.3 for the 1-million dendritic cell group, 92.2 mm2 ± 9.9 and 90.4 mm2 ± 12.8 for the 2-million dendritic cell group, and 193.7 mm2 ± 20.9 and 189.4 mm2 ± 17.8 for the control group (P = .0001 for control group vs 1-million cell group; P = .00007 for control group vs 2-million cell group). There was a correlation between postinjection T2-weighted SNRsignal-to-noise ratio decreases in the left popliteal LNlymph node 24 hours after injection and size changes at follow-up for tumors in both flanks (R = 0.81 and R = 0.76 for left and right tumors, respectively). Conclusion MR imaging approaches can be used for quantitative measurement of accumulated iron-labeled dendritic cell–based vaccines in draining LNlymph nodes. The amount of dendritic cell–based vaccine in draining LNlymph nodes correlates well with observed protective effects. © RSNA, 2014 Online supplemental material is available for this article. PMID:25222066

Direct colloid osmometry in healthy New World camelids.

PubMed

Quesada, Rolando J; Gorman, Maria Elena; Cebra, Christopher K; Verdugo, Claudio; Mosley, Craig A

2011-06-01

Direct colloid osmometry provides an objective assessment of the oncotic effects of crystalloid or colloidal fluid therapy, which is especially useful in monitoring fluid therapy of critically ill camelids due to their tendency toward nonspecific hypoproteinemia with increased risk of developing edema and ascites. The aims of this study were to measure colloid osmotic pressure (COP) of alpacas and llamas, determine its correlation with concentrations of total protein (TP) and total solids (TS), as well as both albumin (A) and globulin (G) concentrations in the same model (A+G), and evaluate the effects of sample type and storage conditions on COP. Blood was collected from clinically healthy alpacas (n=23) and llamas (n=22) into heparin tubes. COP of fresh whole blood (COP(FB) ) and plasma (COP(FP) ) was determined using a membrane osmometer. For 20 alpacas, COP of refrigerated whole blood (COP(RB) ) and frozen plasma (COP(FrP) ) was also measured. Correlations between COP(FB) and TS, TP, and A+G concentrations were assessed by simple and multiple regression analysis to model potential predictors. Median COP(FB) from alpacas (24.6 mmHg, range 19.3-28.1) was not significantly different from that of llamas (25.3 mmHg, range 22.5-33.7). Sample type or storage conditions did not affect COP. Measured COP had a strong positive linear correlation with TS, TP, and A+G concentrations in alpacas (r(2) =.7, .74, and .88, respectively). In llamas, COP correlated best with TS concentration (r(2) =.59), whereas correlation with TP and A+G concentrations was poor (r(2) =.19 and .25, respectively). COP can be measured using heparinized whole blood or plasma, either fresh or stored. Direct measurement is recommended whenever quantitative knowledge of COP is required in clinical or research setting. Further studies are needed to verify if the poor association of COP with TP found in this study can be generalized to llamas. ©2011 American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.

Comparison Evaluations of VRF and RTU Systems Performance on Flexible Research Platform

DOE PAGES

Lee, Je-hyeon; Im, Piljae; Munk, Jeffrey D.; ...

2018-04-05

The energy performance of a variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system was evaluated using an occupancy-emulated research building in the southeastern region of the United States. Full- and part-load performance of the VRF system in heating and cooling seasons was compared with a conventional rooftop unit (RTU) variable-air-volume system with electric resistance heating. During both the heating and cooling seasons, full- and part-load conditions (i.e., 100%, 75%, and 50% thermal loads) were maintained alternately for 2 to 3 days each, and the energy use, thermal conditions, and coefficient of performance (COP) for the RTU and VRF system were measured. During themore » cooling season, the VRF system had an average COP of 4.2, 3.9, and 3.7 compared with 3.1, 3.0, and 2.5 for the RTU system under 100%, 75%, and 50% load conditions and resulted in estimated energy savings of 30%, 37%, and 47%, respectively. Finally, during the heating season, the VRF system had an average COP ranging from 1.2 to 2.0, substantially higher than the COPs of the RTU system, and resulted in estimated energy savings of 51%, 47%, and 27% under the three load conditions, respectively.« less

Sialendoscopy-Assisted Treatment for Chronic Obstructive Parotitis—Our Treatment Strategy with 31 Patients.

PubMed

Wu, Chuan-Bin; Xue, Lei; Zhang, Bin; Sun, Ning-Ning; Zhou, Qing

2015-08-01

Chronic obstructive parotitis (COP) is the most common non-neoplastic salivary disorder. The aim of this study was to describe the authors' experience using sialendoscopy for diagnosing and treating COP. Thirty-one patients with COP who were treated with sialendoscopy from January 2013 through June 2014 at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University (Shenyang, China) were retrospectively reviewed. The cohort underwent ultrasonography and salivary gland scintigraphy examinations before sialendoscopy. Patients without stones underwent sialography before surgery. All patients were asked to report visual analog scale (VAS) scores before and 6 months after surgery to evaluate their condition. A paired t test was conducted and differences with a P value less than .05 were considered statistically significant. Thirty patients (44 parotid glands) successfully underwent interventional sialendoscopy under local anesthesia; 1 patient (1 parotid gland) received general anesthesia. The mean preoperative VAS score was 6, and the mean VAS score 6 months after sialendoscopy was 4.9. The postoperative VAS score was significantly lower than the preoperative VAS score (P < .05). Interventional sialendoscopy plays an important role in the treatment of COP. Copyright © 2015 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Cost-effectiveness of consolidation treatments for acute myeloid leukemia in high-risk pediatric patients within the Colombian healthcare system].

PubMed

García, Mario; Chicaíza, Liliana Alejandra; Quitián, Hoover; Linares, Adriana; Ramírez, Óscar

2015-01-01

Acute myeloid leukemia represents about 20% of leukemias in minors under 18 years old. At present, there are only two consolidation treatment alternatives: Chemotherapy and stem-cell transplantation. To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of unrelated and related hematopoietic stem cell transplantations, versus chemotherapy consolidation in pediatric patients with high-risk acute myeloid leukemia. A decision tree was constructed with life-years gained as the outcome. Costs and probabilities were extracted from the literature. Probabilistic sensitivity analyses and acceptability curves were computed. The cost-effectiveness threshold was three times the 2010 per capita gross domestic product. When compared to consolidation chemotherapy cycles, related and unrelated hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation had incremental cost-effectiveness ratios of COP$ 9,226,421 (USD$ 4,820) and COP$ 6,544,116 (USD$ 3,419) respectively, which are lower than the per capita gross domestic product (COP$ 12,047,418, USD$ 6,294). Transplant proved to be cost-effective in 70% of the simulations and had a higher probability of the willingness to pay being over than COP$ 7,200,000 (USD$ 3,762). In Colombia, related and unrelated hematopoietic stem-cell transplants are cost-effective alternatives to consolidation treatment for high-risk acute myeloid leukemia in pediatric patients.

Postural Stability in Young Adults with Down Syndrome in Challenging Conditions

PubMed Central

Bieć, Ewa; Zima, Joanna; Wójtowicz, Dorota; Wojciechowska-Maszkowska, Bożena; Kręcisz, Krzysztof; Kuczyński, Michał

2014-01-01

To evaluate postural control and performance in subjects with Down syndrome (SwDS), we measured postural sway (COP) in quiet stance in four 20-second tests: with eyes open or closed and on hard or foam surface. Ten SwDS and eleven healthy subjects participated, aged 29.8 (4.8) and 28.4 (3.9), respectively. The time-series recorded with the sampling rate of 100 Hz were used to evaluate postural performance (COP amplitude and mean velocity) and strategies (COP frequency, fractal dimension and entropy). There were no intergroup differences in the amplitude except the stance on foam pad with eyes open when SwDS had larger sway. The COP velocity and frequency were larger in SwDS than controls in all trials on foam pad. During stances on the foam pad SwDS increased fractal dimension showing higher complexity of their equilibrium system, while controls decreased sample entropy exhibiting more conscious control of posture in comparison to the stances on hard support surface. This indicated that each group used entirely different adjustments of postural strategies to the somatosensory challenge. It is proposed that the inferior postural control of SwDS results mainly from insufficient experience in dealing with unpredictable postural stimuli and deficit in motor learning. PMID:24728178

Comparison Evaluations of VRF and RTU Systems Performance on Flexible Research Platform

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

Lee, Je-hyeon; Im, Piljae; Munk, Jeffrey D.

The energy performance of a variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system was evaluated using an occupancy-emulated research building in the southeastern region of the United States. Full- and part-load performance of the VRF system in heating and cooling seasons was compared with a conventional rooftop unit (RTU) variable-air-volume system with electric resistance heating. During both the heating and cooling seasons, full- and part-load conditions (i.e., 100%, 75%, and 50% thermal loads) were maintained alternately for 2 to 3 days each, and the energy use, thermal conditions, and coefficient of performance (COP) for the RTU and VRF system were measured. During themore » cooling season, the VRF system had an average COP of 4.2, 3.9, and 3.7 compared with 3.1, 3.0, and 2.5 for the RTU system under 100%, 75%, and 50% load conditions and resulted in estimated energy savings of 30%, 37%, and 47%, respectively. Finally, during the heating season, the VRF system had an average COP ranging from 1.2 to 2.0, substantially higher than the COPs of the RTU system, and resulted in estimated energy savings of 51%, 47%, and 27% under the three load conditions, respectively.« less

Experimentally induced central sensitization in the cervical spine evokes postural stiffening strategies in healthy young adults.

PubMed

Huntley, Andrew H; Srbely, John Z; Zettel, John L

2015-02-01

Dysequilibrium of cervicogenic origin can result from pain and injury to cervical paraspinal tissues post-whiplash; however, the specific physiological mechanisms still remain unclear. Central sensitization is a neuradaptive process which has been clinically associated with conditions of chronic pain and hypersensitivity. Strong links have been demonstrated between pain hypersensitivity and postural deficits post-whiplash; however, the precise mechanisms are still poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to explore the mechanisms of cervicogenic disequilibrium by investigating the effect of experimentally induced central sensitization in the cervical spine on postural stability in young healthy adults. Sixteen healthy young adults (7 males (22.6±1.13 years) and 9 females (22±2.69 years)) performed 30-s full-tandem stance trials on an AMTI force plate under normal and centrally sensitized conditions. The primary outcome variables included the standard deviation of the center of pressure (COP) position in medio-lateral (M-L) and antero-posterior (A-P) directions; sway range of the COP in M-L and A-P directions and the mean power frequency (MPF) of the COP and horizontal ground shear forces. Variability and sway range of the COP decreased with experimental induction of central sensitization, accompanied by an increase in MPF of COP displacement in both M-L and A-P directions, suggesting an increase in postural stiffening post-sensitization versus non-sensitized controls. Future studies need to further explore this relationship in clinical (whiplash, chronic pain) populations. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of external loads on balance control during upright stance: experimental results and model-based predictions.

PubMed

Qu, Xingda; Nussbaum, Maury A

2009-01-01

The purpose of this study was to identify the effects of external loads on balance control during upright stance, and to examine the ability of a new balance control model to predict these effects. External loads were applied to 12 young, healthy participants, and effects on balance control were characterized by center-of-pressure (COP) based measures. Several loading conditions were studied, involving combinations of load mass (10% and 20% of individual body mass) and height (at or 15% of stature above the whole-body COM). A balance control model based on an optimal control strategy was used to predict COP time series. It was assumed that a given individual would adopt the same neural optimal control mechanisms, identified in a no-load condition, under diverse external loading conditions. With the application of external loads, COP mean velocity in the anterior-posterior direction and RMS distance in the medial-lateral direction increased 8.1% and 10.4%, respectively. Predicted COP mean velocity and RMS distance in the anterior-posterior direction also increased with external loading, by 11.1% and 2.9%, respectively. Both experimental COP data and model-based predictions provided the same general conclusion, that application of larger external loads and loads more superior to the whole body center of mass lead to less effective postural control and perhaps a greater risk of loss of balance or falls. Thus, it can be concluded that the assumption about consistency in control mechanisms was partially supported, and it is the mechanical changes induced by external loads that primarily affect balance control.

Self-heating–induced healing of lithium dendrites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Lu; Basu, Swastik; Wang, Yiping; Chen, Zhizhong; Hundekar, Prateek; Wang, Baiwei; Shi, Jian; Shi, Yunfeng; Narayanan, Shankar; Koratkar, Nikhil

2018-03-01

Lithium (Li) metal electrodes are not deployable in rechargeable batteries because electrochemical plating and stripping invariably leads to growth of dendrites that reduce coulombic efficiency and eventually short the battery. It is generally accepted that the dendrite problem is exacerbated at high current densities. Here, we report a regime for dendrite evolution in which the reverse is true. In our experiments, we found that when the plating and stripping current density is raised above ~9 milliamperes per square centimeter, there is substantial self-heating of the dendrites, which triggers extensive surface migration of Li. This surface diffusion heals the dendrites and smoothens the Li metal surface. We show that repeated doses of high-current-density healing treatment enables the safe cycling of Li-sulfur batteries with high coulombic efficiency.

CopZ from Bacillus subtilis interacts in vivo with a copper exporting CPx-type ATPase CopA.

PubMed

Radford, David S; Kihlken, Margaret A; Borrelly, Gilles P M; Harwood, Colin R; Le Brun, Nick E; Cavet, Jennifer S

2003-03-14

The structure of the hypothetical copper-metallochaperone CopZ from Bacillus subtilis and its predicted partner CopA have been studied but their respective contributions to copper export, -import, -sequestration and -supply are unknown. DeltacopA was hypersensitive to copper and contained more copper atoms cell(-1) than wild-type. Expression from the copA operator-promoter increased in elevated copper (not other metals), consistent with a role in copper export. A bacterial two-hybrid assay revealed in vivo interaction between CopZ and the N-terminal domain of CopA but not that of a related transporter, YvgW, involved in cadmium-resistance. Activity of copper-requiring cytochrome caa(3) oxidase was retained in deltacopZ and deltacopA. DeltacopZ was only slightly copper-hypersensitive but deltacopZ/deltacopA was more sensitive than deltacopA, implying some action of CopZ that is independent of CopA. Significantly, deltacopZ contained fewer copper atoms cell(-1) than wild-type under these conditions. CopZ makes a net contribution to copper sequestration and/or recycling exceeding any donation to CopA for export.

PDC-TREM, a plasmacytoid dendritic cell-specific receptor, is responsible for augmented production of type I interferon.

PubMed

Watarai, Hiroshi; Sekine, Etsuko; Inoue, Sayo; Nakagawa, Ryusuke; Kaisho, Tsuneyasu; Taniguchi, Masaru

2008-02-26

Type I interferons (IFNs) derived from plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs) are critical for antiviral responses; however, the mechanisms underlying their production remain unclear. We have identified a receptor, PDC-TREM, which is associated with Plexin-A1 (PlxnA1) on the PDC cell surface and is preferentially expressed after TLR-stimulation. Limited TLR signals induced PDC-TREM expression but failed to induce IFN-alpha production. However, when coupled with Sema6D, a ligand for Plexin-A1, limited TLR-stimulation resulted in PDC-TREM-mediated DAP12-dependent phosphorylation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and extracellular regulated kinase (Erk) 1/2 at 6-9 h, and IFN-alpha was produced. Inhibition of PDC-TREM expression by pdctrem-shRNA, blocking of PDC-TREM-binding with PlxnA1 by PDC-TREM mAb, and DAP12 deficiency all resulted in greatly reduced PDC-TREM-dependent activation of signaling molecules and IFN-alpha production. Thus, PDC-TREM is responsible for IFN-alpha production, whereas TLR signals are essential for PDC-TREM expression.

Balance maintenance as an acquired motor skill: Delayed gains and robust retention after a single session of training in a virtual environment.

PubMed

Elion, Orit; Sela, Itamar; Bahat, Yotam; Siev-Ner, Itzhak; Weiss, Patrice L Tamar; Karni, Avi

2015-06-03

Does the learning of a balance and stability skill exhibit time-course phases and transfer limitations characteristic of the acquisition and consolidation of voluntary movement sequences? Here we followed the performance of young adults trained in maintaining balance while standing on a moving platform synchronized with a virtual reality road travel scene. The training protocol included eight 3 min long iterations of the road scene. Center of Pressure (CoP) displacements were analyzed for each task iteration within the training session, as well as during tests at 24h, 4 weeks and 12 weeks post-training to test for consolidation phase ("offline") gains and assess retention. In addition, CoP displacements in reaction to external perturbations were assessed before and after the training session and in the 3 subsequent post-training assessments (stability tests). There were significant reductions in CoP displacements as experience accumulated within session, with performance stabilizing by the end of the session. However, CoP displacements were further reduced at 24h post-training (delayed "offline" gains) and these gains were robustly retained. There was no transfer of the practice-related gains to performance in the stability tests. The time-course of learning the balance maintenance task, as well as the limitation on generalizing the gains to untrained conditions, are in line with the results of studies of manual movement skill learning. The current results support the conjecture that a similar repertoire of basic neuronal mechanisms of plasticity may underlay skill (procedural, "how to" knowledge) acquisition and skill memory consolidation in voluntary and balance maintenance tasks. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Implicit postural control strategies in older hemodialysis patients: an objective hallmark feature for clinical balance assessment.

PubMed

Magnard, Justine; Hristea, Dan; Lefrancois, Gaëlle; Testa, Angelo; Paris, Anne; Deschamps, Thibault

2014-09-01

Elderly patients with end stage renal diseases (ESRD) undergoing hemodialyis (HD) present poorer physical function and higher accident falls than healthy elderly population. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the HD-related changes in postural sway in ESRD patients, as an objective hallmark of their functional abilities. We hypothesized that the ESRD symptoms (i.e. uremic syndrome) and the HD therapy affected the postural control, evidenced by higher bounding limits of center-of-pressure (COP) velocity dynamics. Fifty-five participants, including 28 HD patients and 27 age, body mass index and gender-matched healthy participants HS (70.42 ± 13.69 years; 23.46 ± 4.67 kg/m(2); 35.7% women vs. 73.62 ± 6.59 years; 25.09 ± 3.54 kg/m(2); 37% women), were asked to maintain quiet stance on force platform, with eyes open and eyes closed. COP parameters were mean and standard deviation (SD) of position, velocity and average absolute maximal velocity (AAMV) in antero-posterior and medio-lateral directions. The results revealed a significant main effect of group on velocity-based variables, highlighting that mean velocity, SD velocity and AAMV (p<0.01) were higher for HD as compared to HS. These findings identified the bounding limits of COP velocity as an objective hallmark feature of HD-related changes in postural sway. The clinical assessment of this active control of COP velocity dynamics could be useful to examine the effects of targeted intradialytic exercise programs on functional performances and for early detection of increased fall risk in HD patients. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The Effect of Teeth Clenching on Dynamic Balance at Jump-Landing: A Pilot Study.

PubMed

Nakamura, Tomomasa; Yoshida, Yuriko; Churei, Hiroshi; Aizawa, Junya; Hirohata, Kenji; Ohmi, Takehiro; Ohji, Shunsuke; Takahashi, Toshiyuki; Enomoto, Mitsuhiro; Ueno, Toshiaki; Yagishita, Kazuyoshi

2017-07-01

The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of teeth clenching on dynamic balance at jump landing. Twenty-five healthy subjects performed jump-landing tasks with or without teeth clenching. The first 3 trials were performed with no instruction; subsequently, subjects were ordered to clench at the time of landing in the following 3 trials. We collected the data of masseter muscle activity by electromyogram, the maximum vertical ground reaction force (vGRFmax) and center of pressure (CoP) parameters by force plate during jump-landing. According to the clenching status of control jump-landing, all participants were categorized into a spontaneous clenching group and no clenching group, and the CoP data were compared. The masseter muscle activity was correlated with vGRFmax during anterior jump-landing, while it was not correlated with CoP. In comparisons between the spontaneous clenching and the no clenching group during anterior jump-landing, the spontaneous clenching group showed harder landing and the CoP area became larger than the no clenching group. There were no significant differences between pre- and postintervention in both spontaneous clenching and no clenching groups. The effect of teeth clenching on dynamic balance during jump-landing was limited.

Effects of knee and ankle muscle fatigue on postural control in the unipedal stance.

PubMed

Bizid, Riadh; Margnes, Eric; François, Yrieix; Jully, Jean Louis; Gonzalez, Gerard; Dupui, Philippe; Paillard, Thierry

2009-06-01

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of acute muscle fatigue of the ankle and knee musculature on postural control by immediate measures after performing fatiguing tasks (POST condition). One group of subjects (n = 8) performed a fatiguing task by voluntary contractions of the triceps surae (group TRI) and the other (n = 9) performed a fatiguing task by voluntary contractions of the quadriceps femoris (group QUA). Each muscle group was exercised until the loss of maximal voluntary contraction torque reached 50% (isokinetic dynamometer). Posture was assessed by measuring the centre of foot pressure (COP) with a force platform during a test of unipedal quiet standing posture with eyes closed. Initially (in PRE condition), the mean COP velocity was not significantly different between group TRI and group QUA. In POST condition, the mean COP velocity increased more in group QUA than in group TRI. The postural control was more impaired by knee muscle fatigue than by ankle muscle fatigue.

Sit still and pay attention: Using the Wii Balance-Board to detect lapses in concentration in children during psychophysical testing.

PubMed

Jones, Pete R

2018-05-16

During psychophysical testing, a loss of concentration can cause observers to answer incorrectly, even when the stimulus is clearly perceptible. Such lapses limit the accuracy and speed of many psychophysical measurements. This study evaluates an automated technique for detecting lapses based on body movement (postural instability). Thirty-five children (8-11 years of age) and 34 adults performed a typical psychophysical task (orientation discrimination) while seated on a Wii Fit Balance Board: a gaming device that measures center of pressure (CoP). Incorrect responses on suprathreshold catch trials provided the "reference standard" measure of when lapses in concentration occurred. Children exhibited significantly greater variability in CoP on lapse trials, indicating that postural instability provides a feasible, real-time index of concentration. Limitations and potential applications of this method are discussed.

Approaches to Cyber Intrusion Response. A Legal Foundations Study. Report 12 of 12

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-01-01

Computers: Controlling Behavior in Cyberspace through a Contract Law Paradigm, 35 Jurimetrics J. 1, 8-9 (1994). 5 Ingrid Becker, Cybercrime: Cops Can’t...Computers: Controlling Behavior in Cyberspace through a Contract Law Paradigm, 35 JURIMETRICS J. 1-15 (1994). 9 • Pro: This approach allows the victim

Identification of a dendritic cell receptor that couples sensing of necrosis to immunity.

PubMed

Sancho, David; Joffre, Olivier P; Keller, Anna M; Rogers, Neil C; Martínez, Dolores; Hernanz-Falcón, Patricia; Rosewell, Ian; Reis e Sousa, Caetano

2009-04-16

Injury or impaired clearance of apoptotic cells leads to the pathological accumulation of necrotic corpses, which induce an inflammatory response that initiates tissue repair. In addition, antigens present in necrotic cells can sometimes provoke a specific immune response and it has been argued that necrosis could explain adaptive immunity in seemingly infection-free situations, such as after allograft transplantation or in spontaneous and therapy-induced tumour rejection. In the mouse, the CD8alpha+ subset of dendritic cells phagocytoses dead cell remnants and cross-primes CD8+ T cells against cell-associated antigens. Here we show that CD8alpha+ dendritic cells use CLEC9A (also known as DNGR-1), a recently-characterized C-type lectin, to recognize a preformed signal that is exposed on necrotic cells. Loss or blockade of CLEC9A does not impair the uptake of necrotic cell material by CD8+ dendritic cells, but specifically reduces cross-presentation of dead-cell-associated antigens in vitro and decreases the immunogenicity of necrotic cells in vivo. The function of CLEC9A requires a key tyrosine residue in its intracellular tail that allows the recruitment and activation of the tyrosine kinase SYK, which is also essential for cross-presentation of dead-cell-associated antigens. Thus, CLEC9A functions as a SYK-coupled C-type lectin receptor to mediate sensing of necrosis by the principal dendritic-cell subset involved in regulating cross-priming to cell-associated antigens.

Virtual communities of practice: can they support the prevention agenda in public health?

PubMed Central

Ford, Jennifer; Korjonen, Helena; Keswani, Asha; Hughes, Emma

2015-01-01

Background Virtual Communities of Practice (CoPs) are flexible communication and knowledge management tools enabling collaboration, sharing of best practice and professional development. There have been few studies that have looked at the use and usefulness of virtual CoPs in public health. Methods This project sought to gather the evidence and develop recommendations for the value of virtual CoPs in public health through a literature review, and through piloting two CoPs in obesity. The research aimed to find out how useful CoPs are in obesity prevention, what makes a CoP successful and what evaluation methods are appropriate. Results CoPs are composed of observers, passive and active contributors with a small group of 'super-users'. All users learn through reading and listening, even if they do not post. The CoPs had higher levels of reading activity as opposed to low levels of posting activity. Longer existence of CoPs usually means more active membership. There are complex reasons why users fail to engage in knowledge sharing. Success of a CoP is creating an online environment where users feel comfortable. CoPs need administrative support and facilitation. Champions play a vital role. Conclusions Evidence shows some encouraging results about the value of CoPs in enabling collaboration and information sharing. Despite low membership numbers of the obesity CoPs piloted, members see value and suggest improvements. Findings suggest that success comes from leadership, champions, and larger networks with more posting activity. Mixed methods of quantitative and qualitative research are appropriate in measuring the use and impact of CoPs. PMID:26284150

[Costs of Chagas' disease screening test in blood donors in two Colombian blood banks, 2015].

PubMed

Alvis, Nelson José; Díaz, Diana Patricia; Castillo, Liliana; Alvis, Nelson Rafael; Bermúdez, María Isabel; Berrío, Olga Maritza; Beltrán, Mauricio; Castañeda-Orjuela, Carlos Andrés

2018-03-15

Transfusion is a mechanism of transmission of Chagas' disease. There are no studies on the costs of the screening test in Colombian blood banks. To estimate the costs of the screening test for Chagas' disease among blood donors in two Colombian blood banks, 2015. We conducted a micro-costing study from the perspective of the health care provider to estimate the cost of Chagas' disease testing in two blood banks, Banco de Sangre de la Cruz Roja, Seccional Bolívar, and Banco de Sangre del Hospital de Yopal, Casanare, taking into account four cost categories: 1) Administrative costs: public services and insurance costs were calculated based on the blood bank area in square meters; 2) capital costs: building and equipment costs that were annualized using a 3% discount rate and a lifespan of 20 years for building and five for equipment; 3) costs of Chagas' disease test materials and reagents adjusted by blood bank production level, and 4) costs of staff in charge of Chagas' disease test processing. The costs of transfusion bagsand immunohematology tests are also reported. The cost of Chagas' disease test in the blood bank of Seccional Bolívar was COP$ 37,804 (USD$ 12), and the blood bag and immunohematology test costs were COP$ 25,941 (USD$ 8.2) and COP$ 6,800 (USD$ 2.2), respectively. In the blood bank of Yopal, Casanare, the costs were COP$ 77,384 (USD$ 24.6), COP$ 30,141 (USD$ 9.6) and COP$ 12,627 (USD$ 4), respectively. Personnel cost accounted for the highest percentage of the total cost for both blood banks (47.5% in Seccional Bolívar, and 55.7% in Yopal, Casanare). Our results are an important input for the planning of services and cost-effectiveness studies for screening tests for Chagas' disease in Colombian blood banks.

Conversion from CUL4-based COP1–SPA E3 apparatus to UVR8–COP1–SPA complexes underlies a distinct biochemical function of COP1 under UV-B

PubMed Central

Huang, Xi; Ouyang, Xinhao; Yang, Panyu; Lau, On Sun; Chen, Liangbi; Wei, Ning; Deng, Xing Wang

2013-01-01

The evolutionarily conserved CONSTITUTIVE PHOTOMORPHOGENESIS 1 (COP1) is a RING and WD40 protein that functions as a substrate receptor of CULLIN4–DAMAGED DNA BINDING PROTEIN 1 (CUL4–DDB1)–based E3 ubiquitin ligases in both plants and animals. In Arabidopsis, COP1 is a central repressor of photomorphogenesis in the form of COP1–SUPPRESSOR OF PHYA (SPA) complex(es). CUL4–DDB1–COP1–SPA suppresses the photomorphogenic program by targeting the transcription factor ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL 5 for degradation. Intriguingly, under photomorphogenic UV-B light, COP1 reverses its repressive role and promotes photomorphogenesis. However, the mechanism by which COP1 is functionally switched is still obscure. Here, we demonstrate that UV-B triggers the physical and functional disassociation of the COP1–SPA core complex(es) from CUL4–DDB1 and the formation of a unique complex(es) containing the UV-B receptor UV RESISTANCE LOCUS 8 (UVR8). The establishment of this UV-B–dependent COP1 complex(es) is associated with its positive modulation of ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL 5 stability and activity, which sheds light on the mechanism of COP1’s promotive action in UV-B–induced photomorphogenesis. PMID:24067658

Directing lateral growth of lithium dendrites in micro-compartmented anode arrays for safe lithium metal batteries.

PubMed

Zou, Peichao; Wang, Yang; Chiang, Sum-Wai; Wang, Xuanyu; Kang, Feiyu; Yang, Cheng

2018-01-31

Uncontrolled growth of lithium dendrites during cycling has remained a challenging issue for lithium metal batteries. Thus far, various approaches have been proposed to delay or suppress dendrite growth, yet little attention has been paid to the solutions that can make batteries keep working when lithium dendrites are already extensively present. Here we develop an industry-adoptable technology to laterally direct the growth of lithium dendrites, where all dendrites are retained inside the compartmented copper current collector in a given limited cycling capacity. This featured electrode layout renders superior cycling stability (e.g., smoothly running for over 150 cycles at 0.5 mA cm -2 ). Numerical simulations indicate that reduced dendritic stress and damage to the separator are achieved when the battery is abusively running over the ceiling capacity to generate protrusions. This study may contribute to a deeper comprehension of metal dendrites and provide a significant step towards ultimate safe batteries.

30 CFR 585.631 - When must I initiate activities under an approved COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... approved COP? 585.631 Section 585.631 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF... CONTINENTAL SHELF Plans and Information Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop § 585.631 When must I initiate activities under an approved COP? After your COP is approved, you must commence construction by...

30 CFR 285.631 - When must I initiate activities under an approved COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... approved COP? 285.631 Section 285.631 Mineral Resources MINERALS MANAGEMENT SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE... Plans and Information Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop § 285.631 When must I initiate activities under an approved COP? After your COP is approved, you must commence construction by the date...

30 CFR 285.631 - When must I initiate activities under an approved COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... approved COP? 285.631 Section 285.631 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT, REGULATION, AND... OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF Plans and Information Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop § 285.631 When must I initiate activities under an approved COP? After your COP is approved, you must commence...

30 CFR 585.631 - When must I initiate activities under an approved COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... approved COP? 585.631 Section 585.631 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF... CONTINENTAL SHELF Plans and Information Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop § 585.631 When must I initiate activities under an approved COP? After your COP is approved, you must commence construction by...

30 CFR 585.631 - When must I initiate activities under an approved COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... approved COP? 585.631 Section 585.631 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF... CONTINENTAL SHELF Plans and Information Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop § 585.631 When must I initiate activities under an approved COP? After your COP is approved, you must commence construction by...

Sense-encoded poly-GR dipeptide repeat proteins correlate to neurodegeneration and uniquely co-localize with TDP-43 in dendrites of repeat expanded C9orf72 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

PubMed Central

Saberi, Shahram; Stauffer, Jennifer E.; Jiang, Jie; Garcia, Sandra Diaz; Taylor, Amy E; Schulte, Derek; Ohkubo, Takuya; Schloffman, Cheyenne L.; Maldonado, Marcus; Baughn, Michael; Rodriguez, Maria J; Pizzo, Don; Cleveland, Don; Ravits, John

2018-01-01

Hexanucleotide repeat expansions in C9orf72 are the most common genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (C9 ALS). The main hypothesized pathogenic mechanisms are C9orf72 haploinsufficiency and/or toxicity from one or more of bi-directionally transcribed repeat RNAs and their dipeptide repeat proteins (DPRs) poly-GP, poly-GA, poly-GR, poly-PR and poly-PA. Recently, nuclear import and/or export defects especially caused by arginine-containing poly-GR or poly-PR have been proposed as significant contributors to pathogenesis based on disease models. We quantitatively studied and compared DPRs, nuclear pore proteins and C9orf72 protein in clinically-related and clinically-unrelated regions of the central nervous system, and compared them to phosphorylated TDP-43 (pTDP-43), the hallmark protein of ALS. Of the five DPRs, only poly-GR was significantly abundant in clinically-related areas compared to unrelated areas (p<0.001), and formed dendritic-like aggregates in the motor cortex that co-localized with pTDP-43 (p<0.0001). While most poly-GR dendritic inclusions were pTDP-43-positive, only 4% of pTDP-43 dendritic inclusions were poly-GR-positive. Staining for arginine-containing poly-GR and poly-PR in nuclei of neurons produced signals that were not specific to C9 ALS. We could not detect significant differences of nuclear markers RanGap, Lamin B1, and Importin β1 in C9 ALS, although we observed subtle nuclear changes in ALS, both C9 and non-C9, compared to control. The C9orf72 protein itself was diffusely expressed in cytoplasm of large neurons and glia, and nearly 50% reduced, in both clinically-related frontal cortex and unrelated occipital cortex, but not in cerebellum. In summary, sense-encoded poly-GR DPR was unique, and localized to neurites and pTDP43 in motor regions of C9 ALS CNS. This is consistent with new emerging ideas about TDP-43 functions in dendrites. PMID:29196813

Development of a component design tool for metal hydride heat pumps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Waters, Essene L.

Given current demands for more efficient and environmentally friendly energy sources, hydrogen based energy systems are an increasingly popular field of interest. Within the field, metal hydrides have become a prominent focus of research due to their large hydrogen storage capacity and relative system simplicity and safety. Metal hydride heat pumps constitute one such application, in which heat and hydrogen are transferred to and from metal hydrides. While a significant amount of work has been done to study such systems, the scope of materials selection has been quite limited. Typical studies compare only a few metal hydride materials and provide limited justification for the choice of those few. In this work, a metal hydride component design tool has been developed to enable the targeted down-selection of an extensive database of metal hydrides to identify the most promising materials for use in metal hydride thermal systems. The material database contains over 300 metal hydrides with various physical and thermodynamic properties included for each material. Sub-models for equilibrium pressure, thermophysical data, and default properties are used to predict the behavior of each material within the given system. For a given thermal system, this tool can be used to identify optimal materials out of over 100,000 possible hydride combinations. The selection tool described herein has been applied to a stationary combined heat and power system containing a high-temperature proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell, a hot water tank, and two metal hydride beds used as a heat pump. A variety of factors can be used to select materials including efficiency, maximum and minimum system pressures, pressure difference, coefficient of performance (COP), and COP sensitivity. The targeted down-selection of metal hydrides for this system focuses on the system's COP for each potential pair. The values of COP and COP sensitivity have been used to identify pairs of highest interest for use in this application. The metal hydride component design tool developed in this work selects between metal hydride materials on an unprecedented scale. It can be easily applied to other hydrogen-based thermal systems, making it a powerful and versatile tool.

COP improvement of refrigerator/freezers, air-conditioners, and heat pumps using nonazeotropic refrigerant mixtures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Westra, Douglas G.

1993-01-01

With the February, 1992 announcement by President Bush to move the deadline for outlawing CFC (chloro-fluoro-carbon) refrigerants from the year 2000 to the year 1996, the refrigeration and air-conditioning industries have been accelerating their efforts to find alternative refrigerants. Many of the alternative refrigerants being evaluated require synthetic lubricants, are less efficient, and have toxicity problems. One option to developing new, alternative refrigerants is to combine existing non-CFC refrigerants to form a nonazeotropic mixture, with the concentration optimized for the given application so that system COP (Coefficient Of Performance) may be maintained or even improved. This paper will discuss the dilemma that industry is facing regarding CFC phase-out and the problems associated with CFC alternatives presently under development. A definition of nonazeotropic mixtures will be provided, and the characteristics and COP benefits of nonazeotropic refrigerant mixtures will be explained using thermodynamic principles. Limitations and disadvantages of nonazeotropic mixtures will be discussed, and example systems using such mixtures will be reviewed.

Immunomodulation of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis by Oral Administration of Copolymer 1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Teitelbaum, Dvora; Arnon, Ruth; Sela, Michael

1999-03-01

The activity of copolymer 1 (Cop 1, Copax-one, glatiramer acetate) in suppressing experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and in the treatment of multiple sclerosis patients when injected parenterally has been extensively demonstrated. In the present study we addressed the question of whether Cop 1 can induce oral tolerance to EAE similar to myelin basic protein (MBP). We now have demonstrated that oral Cop 1 inhibited EAE induction in both rats and mice. Furthermore, oral Cop 1 was more effective than oral MBP in suppressing EAE in rats. The beneficial effect of oral Cop 1 was found to be associated with specific inhibition of the proliferative and Th1 cytokine secretion responses to MBP of spleen cells from Cop 1-fed mice and rats. In all of these assays, oral Cop 1 was more effective than oral MBP. The tolerance induced by Cop 1 could be adoptively transferred with spleen cells from Cop 1-fed animals. Furthermore, Cop 1-specific T cell lines, which inhibit EAE induction in vivo, could be isolated from the above spleen cells. These T cell lines secrete the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and transforming growth factor type β , but not IL-4, in response to both Cop 1 and MBP. In conclusion, oral Cop 1 has a beneficial effect on the development of EAE that is associated with down-regulation of T cell immune responses to MBP and is mediated by Th2/3 type regulatory cells. These results suggest that oral administration of Cop 1 may modulate multiple sclerosis as well.

Xenobiotic metabolizing enzyme activities in cells used for testing skin sensitization in vitro.

PubMed

Fabian, E; Vogel, D; Blatz, V; Ramirez, T; Kolle, S; Eltze, T; van Ravenzwaay, B; Oesch, F; Landsiedel, R

2013-09-01

For ethical and regulatory reasons, in vitro tests for scoring potential toxicities of cosmetics are essential. A test strategy for investigating potential skin sensitization using two human keratinocytic and two human dendritic cell lines has been developed (Mehling et al. Arch Toxicol 86:1273–1295, 2012). Since prohaptens may be metabolically activated in the skin, information on xenobiotic metabolizing enzyme (XME) activities in these cell lines is of high interest. In this study, XME activity assays, monitoring metabolite or cofactor, showed the following: all three passages of keratinocytic (KeratinoSens® and LuSens) and dendritic (U937 und THP-1) cells displayed N-acetyltransferase 1 (NAT1) activities (about 6–60 nmol/min/mg S9-protein for acetylation of para-aminobenzoic acid). This is relevant since reactive species of many cosmetics are metabolically controlled by cutaneous NAT1. Esterase activities of about 1–4 nmol fluorescein diacetate/min/mg S9-protein were observed in all passages of investigated keratinocytic and about 1 nmol fluorescein diacetate/min/mg S9-protein in dendritic cell lines. This is also of practical relevance since many esters and amides are detoxified and others activated by cutaneous esterases. In both keratinocytic cell lines, activities of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) were observed (5–17 nmol product/min/mg cytosolic protein). ALDH is relevant for the detoxication of reactive aldehydes. Activities of several other XME were below detection, namely the investigated cytochrome P450-dependent alkylresorufin O-dealkylases 7-ethylresorufin O-deethylase, 7-benzylresorufin O-debenzylase and 7-pentylresorufin O-depentylase (while NADPH cytochrome c reductase activities were much above the limit of quantification), the flavin-containing monooxygenase, the alcohol dehydrogenase as well as the UDP glucuronosyl transferase activities.

Long-term prognosis of patients with carbon monoxide poisoning: a nationwide cohort study.

PubMed

Huang, Chien-Cheng; Chung, Min-Hsien; Weng, Shih-Feng; Chien, Chih-Chiang; Lin, Shio-Jean; Lin, Hung-Jung; Guo, How-Ran; Su, Shih-Bin; Hsu, Chien-Chin; Juan, Chi-Wen

2014-01-01

Carbon monoxide poisoning (COP) often produces severe complications and can be fatal. Because this topic has not been well delineated, we investigated long-term prognoses of patients with COP (COP[+]). In this retrospective nationwide cohort study, 441 COP[+] patients and 8820 COP[-] controls (120) from 1999 to 2010 were selected from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database. Thirty-seven (8.39%) COP[+] patients and 142 (1.61%) controls died (P<0.0001) during follow-up. Incidence rate ratios (IRR) of death were 5.24 times higher in COP[+] patients than in controls (P<0.0001). The risk of death was particularly high in the first month after COP (IRR: 308.78; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 40.79-2337.56), 1 to 6 months after (IRR: 18.92; 95% CI: 7.69-46.56), and 6-12 months after (IRR: 4.73; 95% CI: 1.02-21.90). After adjusting for age, gender, and selected comorbidities, the hazard ratio of death for COP[+] patients was still 4.097 times higher than for controls. Moreover, older age (≥30 years old), male gender, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and low income were also independent mortality predictors. COP significantly increases the risk for long-term mortality. Early follow-up and secondary prevention of death are needed for patients with COP.

Facile chemical synthesis and equilibrium unfolding properties of CopG

PubMed Central

Wales, Thomas E.; Richardson, Jane S.; Fitzgerald, Michael C.

2004-01-01

The 45-amino acid polypeptide chain of the homodimeric transcriptional repressor, CopG, was chemically synthesized by stepwise solid phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) using a protocol based on Boc-chemistry. The product obtained from the synthesis was readily purified by reversed-phase HPLC to give a good overall yield (21% by weight). Moreover, the synthetic CopG constructs prepared in this work folded into three-dimensional structures similar to the wild-type protein prepared using conventional recombinant methods as judged by far UV-CD spectroscopy. A fluorescent CopG analog, (Y39W)CopG, was also designed and chemically synthesized to facilitate biophysical studies of CopG’s protein folding and assembly reaction. The guanidinium chloride-induced equilibrium unfolding properties of the wild-type CopG and (Y39W)CopG constructs in this work were characterized and used to develop a model for CopG’s equilibrium unfolding reaction. Our results indicate that CopG’s folding and assembly reaction is well modeled by a two-state process involving folded dimer and unfolded monomer. Using this model, ΔGf and m-values of −13.42 ± 0.04 kcal/mole dimer and 1.92 ± 0.01 kcal/(mole M) were calculated for CopG. PMID:15169951

Orientations of dendritic growth during solidification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Dong Nyung

2017-03-01

Dendrites are crystalline forms which grow far from the limit of stability of the plane front and adopt an orientation which is as close as possible to the heat flux direction. Dendritic growth orientations for cubic metals, bct Sn, and hcp Zn, can be controlled by thermal conductivity, Young's modulus, and surface energy. The control factors have been elaborated. Since the dendrite is a single crystal, its properties such as thermal conductivity that influences the heat flux direction, the minimum Young's modulus direction that influences the strain energy minimization, and the minimum surface energy plane that influences the crystal/liquid interface energy minimization have been proved to control the dendritic growth direction. The dendritic growth directions of cubic metals are determined by the minimum Young's modulus direction and/or axis direction of symmetry of the minimum crystal surface energy plane. The dendritic growth direction of bct Sn is determined by its maximum thermal conductivity direction and the minimum surface energy plane normal direction. The primary dendritic growth direction of hcp Zn is determined by its maximum thermal conductivity direction and the minimum surface energy plane normal direction and the secondary dendrite arm direction of hcp Zn is normal to the primary dendritic growth direction.

Constraint Optimization Literature Review

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-11-01

COPs. 15. SUBJECT TERMS high-performance computing, mobile ad hoc network, optimization, constraint, satisfaction 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17...Optimization Problems 1 2.1 Constraint Satisfaction Problems 1 2.2 Constraint Optimization Problems 3 3. Constraint Optimization Algorithms 9 3.1...Constraint Satisfaction Algorithms 9 3.1.1 Brute-Force search 9 3.1.2 Constraint Propagation 10 3.1.3 Depth-First Search 13 3.1.4 Local Search 18

20 CFR 10.200 - What is continuation of pay?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

..., or COP. The employer, not OWCP, pays COP. Unlike wage loss benefits, COP is subject to taxes and all... (c) of this section, who is eligible for COP, and may not require the employee to use his or her own... continuing the employee's pay, the employer may controvert the employee's COP entitlement pending a final...

30 CFR 585.628 - How will BOEM process my COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 2 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false How will BOEM process my COP? 585.628 Section... COP? (a) BOEM will review your submitted COP, and the information provided pursuant to § 585.627, to... reviews. We will notify you if your submitted COP lacks any necessary information. (b) BOEM will prepare...

20 CFR 10.200 - What is continuation of pay?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

..., or COP. The employer, not OWCP, pays COP. Unlike wage loss benefits, COP is subject to taxes and all... employee who is eligible for COP, and may not require the employee to use his or her own sick or annual... employee's pay, the employer may controvert the employee's COP entitlement pending a final determination by...

20 CFR 10.200 - What is continuation of pay?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

..., or COP. The employer, not OWCP, pays COP. Unlike wage loss benefits, COP is subject to taxes and all... (c) of this section, who is eligible for COP, and may not require the employee to use his or her own... continuing the employee's pay, the employer may controvert the employee's COP entitlement pending a final...

30 CFR 585.628 - How will BOEM process my COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 2 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false How will BOEM process my COP? 585.628 Section... COP? (a) BOEM will review your submitted COP, and the information provided pursuant to § 585.627, to... reviews. We will notify you if your submitted COP lacks any necessary information. (b) BOEM will prepare...

30 CFR 585.628 - How will BOEM process my COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 2 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false How will BOEM process my COP? 585.628 Section... COP? (a) BOEM will review your submitted COP, and the information provided pursuant to § 585.627, to... reviews. We will notify you if your submitted COP lacks any necessary information. (b) BOEM will prepare...

20 CFR 10.200 - What is continuation of pay?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

..., or COP. The employer, not OWCP, pays COP. Unlike wage loss benefits, COP is subject to taxes and all... employee who is eligible for COP, and may not require the employee to use his or her own sick or annual... employee's pay, the employer may controvert the employee's COP entitlement pending a final determination by...

20 CFR 10.200 - What is continuation of pay?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

..., or COP. The employer, not OWCP, pays COP. Unlike wage loss benefits, COP is subject to taxes and all... (c) of this section, who is eligible for COP, and may not require the employee to use his or her own... continuing the employee's pay, the employer may controvert the employee's COP entitlement pending a final...

Treatment of the femoral shaft fracture with a curved heat-treated COP clover-leaf nail.

PubMed

Onoue, Y; Sunami, Y; Fujiwara, H; Sadakane, T; Yasuda, S

1979-01-01

The commonly used straight intramedullary nail has certain limitations and disadvantages. Following radiographic and metallurgical studies we have developed a curved heat-treated clover-leaf nail using a newly developed precipitation hardening stainless steel (COP). The nail is bent with a slot on the convex side and the radius of curvature is 115 cm which corresponds to the anatomical antero-lateral convexity of the human femur. The nail has been satisfactory in clinical use since 1971 and has provided not only more stable internal fixation but also allowed fixation of fractures beyond the middle third of the shaft.

Trim9 Deletion Alters the Morphogenesis of Developing and Adult-Born Hippocampal Neurons and Impairs Spatial Learning and Memory

PubMed Central

Winkle, Cortney C.; Olsen, Reid H. J.; Kim, Hyojin; Moy, Sheryl S.

2016-01-01

During hippocampal development, newly born neurons migrate to appropriate destinations, extend axons, and ramify dendritic arbors to establish functional circuitry. These developmental stages are recapitulated in the dentate gyrus of the adult hippocampus, where neurons are continuously generated and subsequently incorporate into existing, local circuitry. Here we demonstrate that the E3 ubiquitin ligase TRIM9 regulates these developmental stages in embryonic and adult-born mouse hippocampal neurons in vitro and in vivo. Embryonic hippocampal and adult-born dentate granule neurons lacking Trim9 exhibit several morphological defects, including excessive dendritic arborization. Although gross anatomy of the hippocampus was not detectably altered by Trim9 deletion, a significant number of Trim9−/− adult-born dentate neurons localized inappropriately. These morphological and localization defects of hippocampal neurons in Trim9−/− mice were associated with extreme deficits in spatial learning and memory, suggesting that TRIM9-directed neuronal morphogenesis may be involved in hippocampal-dependent behaviors. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Appropriate generation and incorporation of adult-born neurons in the dentate gyrus are critical for spatial learning and memory and other hippocampal functions. Here we identify the brain-enriched E3 ubiquitin ligase TRIM9 as a novel regulator of embryonic and adult hippocampal neuron shape acquisition and hippocampal-dependent behaviors. Genetic deletion of Trim9 elevated dendritic arborization of hippocampal neurons in vitro and in vivo. Adult-born dentate granule cells lacking Trim9 similarly exhibited excessive dendritic arborization and mislocalization of cell bodies in vivo. These cellular defects were associated with severe deficits in spatial learning and memory. PMID:27147649

Trim9 Deletion Alters the Morphogenesis of Developing and Adult-Born Hippocampal Neurons and Impairs Spatial Learning and Memory.

PubMed

Winkle, Cortney C; Olsen, Reid H J; Kim, Hyojin; Moy, Sheryl S; Song, Juan; Gupton, Stephanie L

2016-05-04

During hippocampal development, newly born neurons migrate to appropriate destinations, extend axons, and ramify dendritic arbors to establish functional circuitry. These developmental stages are recapitulated in the dentate gyrus of the adult hippocampus, where neurons are continuously generated and subsequently incorporate into existing, local circuitry. Here we demonstrate that the E3 ubiquitin ligase TRIM9 regulates these developmental stages in embryonic and adult-born mouse hippocampal neurons in vitro and in vivo Embryonic hippocampal and adult-born dentate granule neurons lacking Trim9 exhibit several morphological defects, including excessive dendritic arborization. Although gross anatomy of the hippocampus was not detectably altered by Trim9 deletion, a significant number of Trim9(-/-) adult-born dentate neurons localized inappropriately. These morphological and localization defects of hippocampal neurons in Trim9(-/-) mice were associated with extreme deficits in spatial learning and memory, suggesting that TRIM9-directed neuronal morphogenesis may be involved in hippocampal-dependent behaviors. Appropriate generation and incorporation of adult-born neurons in the dentate gyrus are critical for spatial learning and memory and other hippocampal functions. Here we identify the brain-enriched E3 ubiquitin ligase TRIM9 as a novel regulator of embryonic and adult hippocampal neuron shape acquisition and hippocampal-dependent behaviors. Genetic deletion of Trim9 elevated dendritic arborization of hippocampal neurons in vitro and in vivo Adult-born dentate granule cells lacking Trim9 similarly exhibited excessive dendritic arborization and mislocalization of cell bodies in vivo These cellular defects were associated with severe deficits in spatial learning and memory. Copyright © 2016 the authors 0270-6474/16/364940-19$15.00/0.

20 CFR 10.221 - How is a claim for COP controverted?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2014-04-01 2012-04-01 true How is a claim for COP controverted? 10.221... AMENDED Continuation of Pay Controversion and Termination of Cop § 10.221 How is a claim for COP... must controvert the claim for COP on Form CA-1, explaining in detail the basis for the refusal. The...

20 CFR 10.221 - How is a claim for COP controverted?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false How is a claim for COP controverted? 10.221... AMENDED Continuation of Pay Controversion and Termination of Cop § 10.221 How is a claim for COP... must controvert the claim for COP on Form CA-1, explaining in detail the basis for the refusal. The...

20 CFR 10.216 - How is the pay rate for COP calculated?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false How is the pay rate for COP calculated? 10..., AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Calculation of Cop § 10.216 How is the pay rate for COP calculated? The employer shall calculate COP using the period of time and the weekly pay rate. (a) The pay rate...

20 CFR 10.221 - How is a claim for COP controverted?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false How is a claim for COP controverted? 10.221... AMENDED Continuation of Pay Controversion and Termination of Cop § 10.221 How is a claim for COP... must controvert the claim for COP on Form CA-1, explaining in detail the basis for the refusal. The...

20 CFR 10.221 - How is a claim for COP controverted?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2013-04-01 2012-04-01 true How is a claim for COP controverted? 10.221... AMENDED Continuation of Pay Controversion and Termination of Cop § 10.221 How is a claim for COP... must controvert the claim for COP on Form CA-1, explaining in detail the basis for the refusal. The...

20 CFR 10.215 - How does OWCP compute the number of days of COP used?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... COP used? 10.215 Section 10.215 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF WORKERS' COMPENSATION PROGRAMS...' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Calculation of Cop § 10.215 How does OWCP compute the number of days of COP used? COP is payable for a maximum of 45 calendar days, and every day used is counted...

20 CFR 10.221 - How is a claim for COP controverted?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false How is a claim for COP controverted? 10.221... AMENDED Continuation of Pay Controversion and Termination of Cop § 10.221 How is a claim for COP... must controvert the claim for COP on Form CA-1, explaining in detail the basis for the refusal. The...

20 CFR 10.215 - How does OWCP compute the number of days of COP used?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... COP used? 10.215 Section 10.215 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF WORKERS' COMPENSATION PROGRAMS...' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Calculation of Cop § 10.215 How does OWCP compute the number of days of COP used? COP is payable for a maximum of 45 calendar days, and every day used is counted...

20 CFR 10.215 - How does OWCP compute the number of days of COP used?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... COP used? 10.215 Section 10.215 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF WORKERS' COMPENSATION PROGRAMS...' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Calculation of Cop § 10.215 How does OWCP compute the number of days of COP used? COP is payable for a maximum of 45 calendar days, and every day used is counted...

20 CFR 10.215 - How does OWCP compute the number of days of COP used?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... COP used? 10.215 Section 10.215 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF WORKERS' COMPENSATION PROGRAMS...' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Calculation of Cop § 10.215 How does OWCP compute the number of days of COP used? COP is payable for a maximum of 45 calendar days, and every day used is counted...

Molecular Characterization of Copper Resistance Genes from Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri and Xanthomonas alfalfae subsp. citrumelonis▿

PubMed Central

Behlau, Franklin; Canteros, Blanca I.; Minsavage, Gerald V.; Jones, Jeffrey B.; Graham, James H.

2011-01-01

Copper sprays have been widely used for control of endemic citrus canker caused by Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri in citrus-growing areas for more than 2 decades. Xanthomonas alfalfae subsp. citrumelonis populations were also exposed to frequent sprays of copper for several years as a protective measure against citrus bacterial spot (CBS) in Florida citrus nurseries. Long-term use of these bactericides has led to the development of copper-resistant (Cur) strains in both X. citri subsp. citri and X. alfalfae subsp. citrumelonis, resulting in a reduction of disease control. The objectives of this study were to characterize for the first time the genetics of copper resistance in X. citri subsp. citri and X. alfalfae subsp. citrumelonis and to compare these organisms to other Cur bacteria. Copper resistance determinants from X. citri subsp. citri strain A44(pXccCu2) from Argentina and X. alfalfae subsp. citrumelonis strain 1381(pXacCu2) from Florida were cloned and sequenced. Open reading frames (ORFs) related to the genes copL, copA, copB, copM, copG, copC, copD, and copF were identified in X. citri subsp. citri A44. The same ORFs, except copC and copD, were also present in X. alfalfae subsp. citrumelonis 1381. Transposon mutagenesis of the cloned copper resistance determinants in pXccCu2 revealed that copper resistance in X. citri subsp. citri strain A44 is mostly due to copL, copA, and copB, which are the genes in the cloned cluster with the highest nucleotide homology (≥92%) among different Cur bacteria. PMID:21515725

Fractal dendrite-based electrically conductive composites for laser-scribed flexible circuits

PubMed Central

Yang, Cheng; Cui, Xiaoya; Zhang, Zhexu; Chiang, Sum Wai; Lin, Wei; Duan, Huan; Li, Jia; Kang, Feiyu; Wong, Ching-Ping

2015-01-01

Fractal metallic dendrites have been drawing more attentions recently, yet they have rarely been explored in electronic printing or packaging applications because of the great challenges in large-scale synthesis and limited understanding in such applications. Here we demonstrate a controllable synthesis of fractal Ag micro-dendrites at the hundred-gram scale. When used as the fillers for isotropically electrically conductive composites (ECCs), the unique three-dimensional fractal geometrical configuration and low-temperature sintering characteristic render the Ag micro dendrites with an ultra-low electrical percolation threshold of 0.97 vol% (8 wt%). The ultra-low percolation threshold and self-limited fusing ability may address some critical challenges in current interconnect technology for microelectronics. For example, only half of the laser-scribe energy is needed to pattern fine circuit lines printed using the present ECCs, showing great potential for wiring ultrathin circuits for high performance flexible electronics. PMID:26333352

The blue light-induced interaction of cryptochrome 1 with COP1 requires SPA proteins during Arabidopsis light signaling.

PubMed

Holtkotte, Xu; Ponnu, Jathish; Ahmad, Margaret; Hoecker, Ute

2017-10-01

Plants constantly adjust their growth, development and metabolism to the ambient light environment. Blue light is sensed by the Arabidopsis photoreceptors CRY1 and CRY2 which subsequently initiate light signal transduction by repressing the COP1/SPA E3 ubiquitin ligase. While the interaction between cryptochromes and SPA is blue light-dependent, it was proposed that CRY1 interacts with COP1 constitutively, i.e. also in darkness. Here, our in vivo co-immunoprecipitation experiments suggest that CRY1 and CRY2 form a complex with COP1 only after seedlings were exposed to blue light. No association between COP1 and CRY1 or CRY2 was observed in dark-grown seedlings. Thus, our results suggest that cryptochromes bind the COP1/SPA complex after photoactivation by blue light. In a spa quadruple mutant that is devoid of all four SPA proteins, CRY1 and COP1 did not interact in vivo, neither in dark-grown nor in blue light-grown seedlings. Hence, SPA proteins are required for the high-affinity interaction between CRY1 and COP1 in blue light. Yeast three-hybrid experiments also show that SPA1 enhances the CRY1-COP1 interaction. The coiled-coil domain of SPA1 which is responsible for COP1-binding was necessary to mediate a CRY1-SPA1 interaction in vivo, implying that-in turn-COP1 may be necessary for a CRY1-SPA1 complex formation. Hence, SPA1 and COP1 may act cooperatively in recognizing and binding photoactivated CRY1. In contrast, the blue light-induced association between CRY2 and COP1 was not dependent on SPA proteins in vivo. Similarly, ΔCC-SPA1 interacted with CRY2, though with a much lower affinity than wild-type SPA1. In total, our results demonstrate that CRY1 and CRY2 strongly differ in their blue light-induced interaction with the COP1/SPA complex.

Assessing the genetic diversity of Cu resistance in mine tailings through high-throughput recovery of full-length copA genes

PubMed Central

Li, Xiaofang; Zhu, Yong-Guan; Shaban, Babak; Bruxner, Timothy J. C.; Bond, Philip L.; Huang, Longbin

2015-01-01

Characterizing the genetic diversity of microbial copper (Cu) resistance at the community level remains challenging, mainly due to the polymorphism of the core functional gene copA. In this study, a local BLASTN method using a copA database built in this study was developed to recover full-length putative copA sequences from an assembled tailings metagenome; these sequences were then screened for potentially functioning CopA using conserved metal-binding motifs, inferred by evolutionary trace analysis of CopA sequences from known Cu resistant microorganisms. In total, 99 putative copA sequences were recovered from the tailings metagenome, out of which 70 were found with high potential to be functioning in Cu resistance. Phylogenetic analysis of selected copA sequences detected in the tailings metagenome showed that topology of the copA phylogeny is largely congruent with that of the 16S-based phylogeny of the tailings microbial community obtained in our previous study, indicating that the development of copA diversity in the tailings might be mainly through vertical descent with few lateral gene transfer events. The method established here can be used to explore copA (and potentially other metal resistance genes) diversity in any metagenome and has the potential to exhaust the full-length gene sequences for downstream analyses. PMID:26286020

Long-Term Prognosis of Patients with Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: A Nationwide Cohort Study

PubMed Central

Chung, Min-Hsien; Weng, Shih-Feng; Chien, Chih-Chiang; Lin, Shio-Jean; Lin, Hung-Jung; Guo, How-Ran; Hsu, Chien-Chin; Juan, Chi-Wen

2014-01-01

Background Carbon monoxide poisoning (COP) often produces severe complications and can be fatal. Because this topic has not been well delineated, we investigated long-term prognoses of patients with COP (COP[+]). Methods In this retrospective nationwide cohort study, 441 COP[+] patients and 8820 COP[−] controls (120) from 1999 to 2010 were selected from Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database. Results Thirty-seven (8.39%) COP[+] patients and 142 (1.61%) controls died (P<0.0001) during follow-up. Incidence rate ratios (IRR) of death were 5.24 times higher in COP[+] patients than in controls (P<0.0001). The risk of death was particularly high in the first month after COP (IRR: 308.78; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 40.79–2337.56), 1 to 6 months after (IRR: 18.92; 95% CI: 7.69–46.56), and 6–12 months after (IRR: 4.73; 95% CI: 1.02–21.90). After adjusting for age, gender, and selected comorbidities, the hazard ratio of death for COP[+] patients was still 4.097 times higher than for controls. Moreover, older age (≥30 years old), male gender, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and low income were also independent mortality predictors. Conclusions COP significantly increases the risk for long-term mortality. Early follow-up and secondary prevention of death are needed for patients with COP. PMID:25167083

An assessment of efficient water heating options for an all-electric single family residence in a mixed-humid climate.

PubMed

Balke, Elizabeth C; Healy, William M; Ullah, Tania

2016-12-01

An evaluation of a variety of efficient water heating strategies for an all-electric single family home located in a mixed-humid climate is conducted using numerical modeling. The strategies considered include various combinations of solar thermal, heat pump, and electric resistance water heaters. The numerical model used in the study is first validated against a year of field data obtained on a dual-tank system with a solar thermal preheat tank feeding a heat pump water heater that serves as a backup. Modeling results show that this configuration is the most efficient of the systems studied over the course of a year, with a system coefficient of performance (COP sys ) of 2.87. The heat pump water heater alone results in a COP sys of 1.9, while the baseline resistance water heater has a COP sys of 0.95. Impacts on space conditioning are also investigated by considering the extra energy consumption required of the air source heat pump to remove or add heat from the conditioned space by the water heating system. A modified COP sys that incorporates the heat pump energy consumption shows a significant drop in efficiency for the dual tank configuration since the heat pump water heater draws the most heat from the space in the heating season while the high temperatures in the solar storage tank during the cooling season result in an added heat load to the space. Despite this degradation in the COP sys , the combination of the solar thermal preheat tank and the heat pump water heater is the most efficient option even when considering the impacts on space conditioning.

Reliability and comparison of trunk and pelvis angles, arm distance and center of pressure in the seated functional reach test with and without foot support in children.

PubMed

Radtka, Sandra; Zayac, Jacqueline; Goldberg, Krystyna; Long, Michael; Ixanov, Rustem

2017-03-01

This study determined test-retest reliability of trunk and pelvis joint angles, arm distance and center of pressure (COP) excursion for the seated functional reach test (FRT) and compared these variables during the seated FRT with and without foot support. Fifteen typically developing children (age 9.3±4.1years) participated. Trunk and pelvis joint angles, arm distance, and COP excursion were collected on two days using three-dimensional motion analysis and a force plate while subjects reached maximally with and without foot support in the anterior, anterior/lateral, lateral, posterior/lateral directions. Age, weight, height, trunk and arm lengths were correlated (p<0.01) with maximum arm distance reached. Maximum arm distance, trunk and pelvis joint angles, and COP with and without foot support were not significant (p<0.05) for the two test periods. Excellent reliability (ICCs>0.75) was found for maximum arm distance reached in all four directions in the seated FRT with and without foot support. Most trunk and pelvis joint angles and COP excursions during maximum reach in all four directions showed excellent to fair reliability (ICCs>0.40-0.75). Reaching with foot support in all directions was significantly greater (p<0.05) than without foot support; however, most COP excursions and trunk and pelvic angles were not significantly different. Findings support the addition of anterior/lateral and posterior/lateral reaching directions in the seated FRT. Trunk and pelvis movement analysis is important to examine in the seated FRT to determine the specific movement strategies needed for maximum reaching without loss of balance. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Adoptively transferred dendritic cells restore primary cell-mediated inflammatory competence to acutely malnourished weanling mice.

PubMed

Hillyer, Lyn; Whitley, Charlene; Olver, Amy; Webster, Michelle; Steevels, Tessa; Woodward, Bill

2008-02-01

Immune depression associated with prepubescent malnutrition underlies a staggering burden of infection-related morbidity. This investigation centered on dendritic cells as potentially decisive in this phenomenon. C57BL/6J mice, initially 19 days old, had free access for 14 days to a complete diet or to a low-protein formulation that induced wasting deficits of protein and energy. Mice were sensitized by i.p. injection of sheep red blood cells on day 9, at which time one-half of the animals in each dietary group received a simultaneous injection of 10(6) syngeneic dendritic cells (JAWS II). All mice were challenged with the immunizing antigen in the right hind footpad on day 13, and the 24-hour delayed hypersensitivity response was assessed as percentage increase in footpad thickness. The low-protein diet reduced the inflammatory immune response, but JAWS cells, which exhibited immature phenotypic and functional characteristics, increased the response of both the malnourished group and the controls. By contrast, i.p. injection of 10(6) syngeneic T cells did not influence the inflammatory immune response of mice subjected to the low-protein protocol. Antigen-presenting cell numbers limited primary inflammatory cell-mediated competence in this model of wasting malnutrition, an outcome that challenges the prevailing multifactorial model of malnutrition-associated immune depression. Thus, a new dendritic cell-centered perspective emerges regarding the cellular mechanism underlying immune depression in acute pediatric protein and energy deficit.

Center-of-pressure movements during equine-assisted activities.

PubMed

Clayton, Hilary M; Kaiser, Leeann J; de Pue, Bonnie; Kaiser, Lana

2011-01-01

We compared anteroposterior and mediolateral range of motion and velocity of the center of pressure (COP) on the horse's back between riders without disabilities and riders with cerebral palsy. An electronic pressure mat was used to track COP movements beneath the saddle in 4 riders without disabilities and 4 riders with cerebral palsy. Comparisons between rider groups were made using the Mann-Whitney test (p < .05). The two rider groups differed significantly in anteroposterior range of COP motion, mediolateral range of COP motion, and mediolateral COP velocity. Anteroposterior COP velocity did not differ between groups. The results suggest that measurements of COP range of motion and velocity are potentially useful for monitoring changes in balance as an indicator of core stability during equine-assisted activities.

Adaptation effects in static postural control by providing simultaneous visual feedback of center of pressure and center of gravity.

PubMed

Takeda, Kenta; Mani, Hiroki; Hasegawa, Naoya; Sato, Yuki; Tanaka, Shintaro; Maejima, Hiroshi; Asaka, Tadayoshi

2017-07-19

The benefit of visual feedback of the center of pressure (COP) on quiet standing is still debatable. This study aimed to investigate the adaptation effects of visual feedback training using both the COP and center of gravity (COG) during quiet standing. Thirty-four healthy young adults were divided into three groups randomly (COP + COG, COP, and control groups). A force plate was used to calculate the coordinates of the COP in the anteroposterior (COP AP ) and mediolateral (COP ML ) directions. A motion analysis system was used to calculate the coordinates of the center of mass (COM) in both directions (COM AP and COM ML ). The coordinates of the COG in the AP direction (COG AP ) were obtained from the force plate signals. Augmented visual feedback was presented on a screen in the form of fluctuation circles in the vertical direction that moved upward as the COP AP and/or COG AP moved forward and vice versa. The COP + COG group received the real-time COP AP and COG AP feedback simultaneously, whereas the COP group received the real-time COP AP feedback only. The control group received no visual feedback. In the training session, the COP + COG group was required to maintain an even distance between the COP AP and COG AP and reduce the COG AP fluctuation, whereas the COP group was required to reduce the COP AP fluctuation while standing on a foam pad. In test sessions, participants were instructed to keep their standing posture as quiet as possible on the foam pad before (pre-session) and after (post-session) the training sessions. In the post-session, the velocity and root mean square of COM AP in the COP + COG group were lower than those in the control group. In addition, the absolute value of the sum of the COP - COM distances in the COP + COG group was lower than that in the COP group. Furthermore, positive correlations were found between the COM AP velocity and COP - COM parameters. The results suggest that the novel visual feedback training that incorporates the COP AP -COG AP interaction reduces postural sway better than the training using the COP AP alone during quiet standing. That is, even COP AP fluctuation around the COG AP would be effective in reducing the COM AP velocity.

Dendritic Properties Control Energy Efficiency of Action Potentials in Cortical Pyramidal Cells

PubMed Central

Yi, Guosheng; Wang, Jiang; Wei, Xile; Deng, Bin

2017-01-01

Neural computation is performed by transforming input signals into sequences of action potentials (APs), which is metabolically expensive and limited by the energy available to the brain. The metabolic efficiency of single AP has important consequences for the computational power of the cell, which is determined by its biophysical properties and morphologies. Here we adopt biophysically-based two-compartment models to investigate how dendrites affect energy efficiency of APs in cortical pyramidal neurons. We measure the Na+ entry during the spike and examine how it is efficiently used for generating AP depolarization. We show that increasing the proportion of dendritic area or coupling conductance between two chambers decreases Na+ entry efficiency of somatic AP. Activating inward Ca2+ current in dendrites results in dendritic spike, which increases AP efficiency. Activating Ca2+-activated outward K+ current in dendrites, however, decreases Na+ entry efficiency. We demonstrate that the active and passive dendrites take effects by altering the overlap between Na+ influx and internal current flowing from soma to dendrite. We explain a fundamental link between dendritic properties and AP efficiency, which is essential to interpret how neural computation consumes metabolic energy and how biophysics and morphologies contribute to such consumption. PMID:28919852

Dendritic Properties Control Energy Efficiency of Action Potentials in Cortical Pyramidal Cells.

PubMed

Yi, Guosheng; Wang, Jiang; Wei, Xile; Deng, Bin

2017-01-01

Neural computation is performed by transforming input signals into sequences of action potentials (APs), which is metabolically expensive and limited by the energy available to the brain. The metabolic efficiency of single AP has important consequences for the computational power of the cell, which is determined by its biophysical properties and morphologies. Here we adopt biophysically-based two-compartment models to investigate how dendrites affect energy efficiency of APs in cortical pyramidal neurons. We measure the Na + entry during the spike and examine how it is efficiently used for generating AP depolarization. We show that increasing the proportion of dendritic area or coupling conductance between two chambers decreases Na + entry efficiency of somatic AP. Activating inward Ca 2+ current in dendrites results in dendritic spike, which increases AP efficiency. Activating Ca 2+ -activated outward K + current in dendrites, however, decreases Na + entry efficiency. We demonstrate that the active and passive dendrites take effects by altering the overlap between Na + influx and internal current flowing from soma to dendrite. We explain a fundamental link between dendritic properties and AP efficiency, which is essential to interpret how neural computation consumes metabolic energy and how biophysics and morphologies contribute to such consumption.

30 CFR 285.638 - What must I do upon completion of my commercial operations as approved in my COP or FERC license?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... operations as approved in my COP or FERC license? 285.638 Section 285.638 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN... Activities Under An Approved Cop § 285.638 What must I do upon completion of my commercial operations as approved in my COP or FERC license? (a) Upon completion of your approved activities under your COP, you...

30 CFR 285.635 - What must I do if I cease activities approved in my COP before the end of my commercial lease?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... in my COP before the end of my commercial lease? 285.635 Section 285.635 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF... Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop § 285.635 What must I do if I cease activities approved in my COP... cease commercial operations, without an approved suspension, under your approved COP. If you cease...

30 CFR 585.635 - What must I do if I cease activities approved in my COP before the end of my commercial lease?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... in my COP before the end of my commercial lease? 585.635 Section 585.635 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF... Approved Cop § 585.635 What must I do if I cease activities approved in my COP before the end of my..., without an approved suspension, under your approved COP. If you cease commercial operations for an...

30 CFR 585.635 - What must I do if I cease activities approved in my COP before the end of my commercial lease?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... in my COP before the end of my commercial lease? 585.635 Section 585.635 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF... Approved Cop § 585.635 What must I do if I cease activities approved in my COP before the end of my..., without an approved suspension, under your approved COP. If you cease commercial operations for an...

30 CFR 585.635 - What must I do if I cease activities approved in my COP before the end of my commercial lease?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... in my COP before the end of my commercial lease? 585.635 Section 585.635 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF... Approved Cop § 585.635 What must I do if I cease activities approved in my COP before the end of my..., without an approved suspension, under your approved COP. If you cease commercial operations for an...

New, Improved Version of the mCOP-PCR Screening System for Detection of Spinal Muscular Atrophy Gene (SMN1) Deletion.

PubMed

Shinohara, Masakazu; Ar Rochmah, Mawaddah; Nakanishi, Kenta; Harahap, Nur Imma Fatimah; Niba, Emma Tabe Eko; Saito, Toshio; Saito, Kayoko; Takeuchi, Atsuko; Bouike, Yoshihiro; Nishio, Hisahide

2017-09-07

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a frequent autosomal recessive disorder, characterized by lower motor neuron loss in the spinal cord. More than 95% of SMA patients show homozygous survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) deletion. We previously developed a screening system for SMN1 deletion based on a modified competitive oligonucleotide priming-PCR (mCOP-PCR) technique. However, non-specific amplification products were observed with mCOP-PCR, which might lead to erroneous interpretation of the screening results. To establish an improved version of the mCOP-PCR screening system without non-specific amplification. DNA samples were assayed using a new version of the mCOP-PCR screening system. DNA samples had already been genotyped by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP), showing the presence or absence of SMN1 exon 7. The new mCOP-PCR method contained a targeted pre-amplification step of the region, including an SMN1-specific nucleotide, prior to the mCOP-PCR step. mCOP-PCR products were electrophoresed on agarose gels. No non-specific amplification products were detected in electrophoresis gels with the new mCOP-PCR screening system. An additional targeted pre-amplification step eliminated non-specific amplification from mCOP-PCR screening.

Effects of body lean and visual information on the equilibrium maintenance during stance.

PubMed

Duarte, Marcos; Zatsiorsky, Vladimir M

2002-09-01

Maintenance of equilibrium was tested in conditions when humans assume different leaning postures during upright standing. Subjects ( n=11) stood in 13 different body postures specified by visual center of pressure (COP) targets within their base of support (BOS). Different types of visual information were tested: continuous presentation of visual target, no vision after target presentation, and with simultaneous visual feedback of the COP. The following variables were used to describe the equilibrium maintenance: the mean of the COP position, the area of the ellipse covering the COP sway, and the resultant median frequency of the power spectral density of the COP displacement. The variability of the COP displacement, quantified by the COP area variable, increased when subjects occupied leaning postures, irrespective of the kind of visual information provided. This variability also increased when vision was removed in relation to when vision was present. Without vision, drifts in the COP data were observed which were larger for COP targets farther away from the neutral position. When COP feedback was given in addition to the visual target, the postural control system did not control stance better than in the condition with only visual information. These results indicate that the visual information is used by the postural control system at both short and long time scales.

Democracy-independence trade-off in oscillating dendrites and its implications for grid cells.

PubMed

Remme, Michiel W H; Lengyel, Máté; Gutkin, Boris S

2010-05-13

Dendritic democracy and independence have been characterized for near-instantaneous processing of synaptic inputs. However, a wide class of neuronal computations requires input integration on long timescales. As a paradigmatic example, entorhinal grid fields have been thought to be generated by the democratic summation of independent dendritic oscillations performing direction-selective path integration. We analyzed how multiple dendritic oscillators embedded in the same neuron integrate inputs separately and determine somatic membrane voltage jointly. We found that the interaction of dendritic oscillations leads to phase locking, which sets an upper limit on the timescale for independent input integration. Factors that increase this timescale also decrease the influence that the dendritic oscillations exert on somatic voltage. In entorhinal stellate cells, interdendritic coupling dominates and causes these cells to act as single oscillators. Our results suggest a fundamental trade-off between local and global processing in dendritic trees integrating ongoing signals. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The copYAZ Operon Functions in Copper Efflux, Biofilm Formation, Genetic Transformation, and Stress Tolerance in Streptococcus mutans

PubMed Central

Singh, Kamna; Senadheera, Dilani B.; Lévesque, Céline M.

2015-01-01

ABSTRACT In bacteria, copper homeostasis is closely monitored to ensure proper cellular functions while avoiding cell damage. Most Gram-positive bacteria utilize the copYABZ operon for copper homeostasis, where copA and copB encode copper-transporting P-type ATPases, whereas copY and copZ regulate the expression of the cop operon. Streptococcus mutans is a biofilm-forming oral pathogen that harbors a putative copper-transporting copYAZ operon. Here, we characterized the role of copYAZ operon in the physiology of S. mutans and delineated the mechanisms of copper-induced toxicity in this bacterium. We observed that copper induced toxicity in S. mutans cells by generating oxidative stress and disrupting their membrane potential. Deletion of the copYAZ operon in S. mutans strain UA159 resulted in reduced cell viability under copper, acid, and oxidative stress relative to the viability of the wild type under these conditions. Furthermore, the ability of S. mutans to form biofilms and develop genetic competence was impaired under copper stress. Briefly, copper stress significantly reduced cell adherence and total biofilm biomass, concomitantly repressing the transcription of the gtfB, gtfC, gtfD, gbpB, and gbpC genes, whose products have roles in maintaining the structural and/or functional integrity of the S. mutans biofilm. Furthermore, supplementation with copper or loss of copYAZ resulted in significant reductions in transformability and in the transcription of competence-associated genes. Copper transport assays revealed that the ΔcopYAZ strain accrued significantly large amounts of intracellular copper compared with the amount of copper accumulation in the wild-type strain, thereby demonstrating a role for CopYAZ in the copper efflux of S. mutans. The complementation of the CopYAZ system restored copper expulsion, membrane potential, and stress tolerance in the copYAZ-null mutant. Taking these results collectively, we have established the function of the S. mutans CopYAZ system in copper export and have further expanded knowledge on the importance of copper homeostasis and the CopYAZ system in modulating streptococcal physiology, including stress tolerance, membrane potential, genetic competence, and biofilm formation. IMPORTANCE S. mutans is best known for its role in the initiation and progression of human dental caries, one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide. S. mutans is also implicated in bacterial endocarditis, a life-threatening inflammation of the heart valve. The core virulence factors of S. mutans include its ability to produce and sustain acidic conditions and to form a polysaccharide-encased biofilm that provides protection against environmental insults. Here, we demonstrate that the addition of copper and/or deletion of copYAZ (the copper homeostasis system) have serious implications in modulating biofilm formation, stress tolerance, and genetic transformation in S. mutans. Manipulating the pathways affected by copper and the copYAZ system may help to develop potential therapeutics to prevent S. mutans infection in and beyond the oral cavity. PMID:26013484

Golgi-type I and Golgi-type II neurons in the ventral anterior thalamic nucleus of the adult human: morphological features and quantitative analysis.

PubMed

Al-Hussain Bani Hani, Saleh M; El-Dwairi, Qasim A; Bataineh, Ziad M; Al-Haidari, Mohammad S; Al-Alami, Jamil

2008-05-01

The morphological and quantitative features of neurons in the adult human ventral anterior thalamic nucleus were studied in Golgi preparations. Two neuronal types were found and their quantitative features were studied. Golgi-type I neurons were medium to large cells with dense dendritic trees and dendritic protrusions and short hair-like appendages. They have somatic mean diameter of 30.8 microm (+/-9.4, n = 85). They have an average 100.3 dendritic branches, 48.97 dendritic branching points, and 58.85 dendritic tips. The mean diameters of their primary, secondary, and tertiary dendrites were 3.1 microm (+/-1, n = 80), 1.85 microm (+/-0.8, n = 145), and 1.5 microm (+/-0.4, n = 160), respectively. Golgi-type II neurons were small to medium cells with few sparsely branching dendrites and dendritic stalked appendages with or without terminal swellings. They have somatic mean diameters of 22.2 microm (+/-5.8, n = 120). They have an average 33.76 dendritic branches, 16.49 dendritic branching points, and 21.97 dendritic tips. The mean diameters of their primary, secondary, and tertiary dendrites were 1.6 microm (+/-0.86, n = 70), 1.15 microm (+/-0.55, n = 118), and 1 microm (+/-0.70, n = 95), respectively. These quantitative data may form the basis for further quantitative studies involving aging or some degenerative diseases that may affect cell bodies and/or dendritic trees of the Golgi-type I and/or Golgi-type II thalamic neurons.

Copper tolerance in Frankia sp. strain EuI1c involves surface binding and copper transport.

PubMed

Rehan, Medhat; Furnholm, Teal; Finethy, Ryan H; Chu, Feixia; El-Fadly, Gomaah; Tisa, Louis S

2014-09-01

Several Frankia strains have been shown to be copper-tolerant. The mechanism of their copper tolerance was investigated for Frankia sp. strain EuI1c. Copper binding was shown by binding studies. Unusual globular structures were observed on the surface of the bacterium. These globular structures were composed of aggregates containing many relatively smaller "leaf-like" structures. Scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDAX) analysis of these structures indicated elevated copper and phosphate levels compared to the control cells. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis indicated an increase in extracellular phosphate on the cell surface of copper-stressed cells. Bioinformatics' analysis of the Frankia sp. strain EuI1c genome revealed five potential cop genes: copA, copZ, copC, copCD, and copD. Experiments with Frankia sp. strain EuI1c using qRT-PCR indicated an increase in messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of the five cop genes upon Cu(2+) stress. After 5 days of Cu(2+) stress, the copA, copZ, copC, copCD, and copD mRNA levels increased 25-, 8-, 18-, 18-, and 25-fold, respectively. The protein profile of Cu(2+)-stressed Frankia sp. strain EuI1c cells revealed the upregulation of a 36.7 kDa protein that was identified as FraEuI1c_1092 (sulfate-binding periplasmic transport protein). Homologues of this gene were only present in the genomes of the Cu(2+)-resistant Frankia strains (EuI1c, DC12, and CN3). These data indicate that copper tolerance by Frankia sp. strain EuI1c involved the binding of copper to the cell surface and transport proteins.

Dynamics of cortical dendritic membrane potential and spikes in freely behaving rats.

PubMed

Moore, Jason J; Ravassard, Pascal M; Ho, David; Acharya, Lavanya; Kees, Ashley L; Vuong, Cliff; Mehta, Mayank R

2017-03-24

Neural activity in vivo is primarily measured using extracellular somatic spikes, which provide limited information about neural computation. Hence, it is necessary to record from neuronal dendrites, which can generate dendritic action potentials (DAPs) in vitro, which can profoundly influence neural computation and plasticity. We measured neocortical sub- and suprathreshold dendritic membrane potential (DMP) from putative distal-most dendrites using tetrodes in freely behaving rats over multiple days with a high degree of stability and submillisecond temporal resolution. DAP firing rates were several-fold larger than somatic rates. DAP rates were also modulated by subthreshold DMP fluctuations, which were far larger than DAP amplitude, indicating hybrid, analog-digital coding in the dendrites. Parietal DAP and DMP exhibited egocentric spatial maps comparable to pyramidal neurons. These results have important implications for neural coding and plasticity. Copyright © 2017, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

20 CFR 10.224 - What happens if OWCP finds that the employee is not entitled to COP after it has been paid?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... is not entitled to COP after it has been paid? 10.224 Section 10.224 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF... Termination of Cop § 10.224 What happens if OWCP finds that the employee is not entitled to COP after it has been paid? Where OWCP finds that the employee is not entitled to COP after it has been paid, the...

20 CFR 10.224 - What happens if OWCP finds that the employee is not entitled to COP after it has been paid?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... is not entitled to COP after it has been paid? 10.224 Section 10.224 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF... Termination of Cop § 10.224 What happens if OWCP finds that the employee is not entitled to COP after it has been paid? Where OWCP finds that the employee is not entitled to COP after it has been paid, the...

20 CFR 10.224 - What happens if OWCP finds that the employee is not entitled to COP after it has been paid?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... is not entitled to COP after it has been paid? 10.224 Section 10.224 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF... Termination of Cop § 10.224 What happens if OWCP finds that the employee is not entitled to COP after it has been paid? Where OWCP finds that the employee is not entitled to COP after it has been paid, the...

20 CFR 10.224 - What happens if OWCP finds that the employee is not entitled to COP after it has been paid?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... is not entitled to COP after it has been paid? 10.224 Section 10.224 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF... Termination of Cop § 10.224 What happens if OWCP finds that the employee is not entitled to COP after it has been paid? Where OWCP finds that the employee is not entitled to COP after it has been paid, the...

20 CFR 10.224 - What happens if OWCP finds that the employee is not entitled to COP after it has been paid?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... is not entitled to COP after it has been paid? 10.224 Section 10.224 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF... Termination of Cop § 10.224 What happens if OWCP finds that the employee is not entitled to COP after it has been paid? Where OWCP finds that the employee is not entitled to COP after it has been paid, the...

CpG Oligodeoxynucleotides Facilitate Delivery of Whole Inactivated H9N2 Influenza Virus via Transepithelial Dendrites of Dendritic Cells in Nasal Mucosa

PubMed Central

Qin, Tao; Yin, Yinyan; Yu, Qinghua; Huang, Lulu; Wang, Xiaoqing; Lin, Jian

2015-01-01

ABSTRACT The spread of the low-pathogenicity avian H9N2 influenza virus has seriously increased the risk of a new influenza pandemic. Although whole inactivated virus (WIV) vaccine via intranasal pathway is the effective method of blocking virus transmission, the mucosal barrier seems to be a major factor hampering its development. CpG oligodeoxynucleotides, a known adjuvant, can target downstream dendritic cells (DCs) and effectively enhance the mucosal and systemic immune responses. However, the ability of CpGs to assist H9N2 WIV in transepithelial transport remains unknown. Here, in vitro and in vivo, we showed that CpGs provided assistance for H9N2 WIV in recruiting DCs to the nasal epithelial cells (ECs) and forming transepithelial dendrites (TEDs) to capture luminal viruses. CD103+ DCs participated in this process. Chemokine CCL20 from nasal ECs played a key role in driving DC recruitment and TED formation. Virus-loaded DCs quickly migrated into the draining cervical lymph nodes (CLNs) for antigen presentation. In addition, the competence of CpGs was independent of direct epithelial transport via the transcellular or paracellular pathway. Taken together, our data demonstrated that CpGs enhanced the transport of H9N2 WIV via TEDs of nasal DCs, which might be a novel mechanism for optimal adaptive immune responses. IMPORTANCE This paper demonstrates by both an in vivo and an in vitro coculture model that CpG oligodeoxynucleotides, known as an adjuvant generally targeting downstream immune responses, also are crucial for the transport of H9N2 WIV across nasal epithelial cells (ECs) via the uptake of transepithelial dendrites (TEDs). Our results prove for the first time to our knowledge that the immune-potentiating mechanism of CpGs is based on strengthening the transepithelial uptake of H9N2 WIV in nasal mucosa. These findings provide a fresh perspective for further improvement of intranasal influenza vaccines, which are urgently needed in the face of the potential threat of H9N2 influenza. PMID:25810544

COP1, a negative regulator of photomorphogenesis, positively regulates plant disease resistance via double-stranded RNA binding proteins

PubMed Central

Lim, Gah-Hyun; Zhu, Shifeng; Clavel, Marion; Yu, Keshun; Navarre, Duroy; Kachroo, Aardra; Deragon, Jean-Marc

2018-01-01

The E3 ubiquitin ligase COP1 (Constitutive Photomorphogenesis 1) is a well known component of the light-mediated plant development that acts as a repressor of photomorphogenesis. Here we show that COP1 positively regulates defense against turnip crinkle virus (TCV) and avrRPM1 bacteria by contributing to stability of resistance (R) protein HRT and RPM1, respectively. HRT and RPM1 levels and thereby pathogen resistance is significantly reduced in the cop1 mutant background. Notably, the levels of at least two double-stranded RNA binding (DRB) proteins DRB1 and DRB4 are reduced in the cop1 mutant background suggesting that COP1 affects HRT stability via its effect on the DRB proteins. Indeed, a mutation in either drb1 or drb4 resulted in degradation of HRT. In contrast to COP1, a multi-subunit E3 ligase encoded by anaphase-promoting complex (APC) 10 negatively regulates DRB4 and TCV resistance but had no effect on DRB1 levels. We propose that COP1-mediated positive regulation of HRT is dependent on a balance between COP1 and negative regulators that target DRB1 and DRB4. PMID:29513740

Center of Pressure Trajectory during Gait: A Comparison of Four Foot Positions

PubMed Central

Lugade, Vipul; Kaufman, Kenton

2014-01-01

Knowledge of the center of pressure (COP) trajectory during stance can elucidate possible foot pathology, provide comparative effectiveness of foot orthotics, and allow for appropriate calculation of balance control and joint kinetics during gait. Therefore, the goal of this study was to investigate the COP movement when walking at self-selected speeds with plantigrade, equinus, inverted, and everted foot positions. A total of 13 healthy subjects were asked to walk barefoot across an 8 meter walkway with embedded force plates. The COP was computed for each stance limb using the ground reaction forces and moments collected from three force plates. Results demonstrated that the COP excursion was 83% of the foot length and 27% of the foot width in the anterior-posterior and medial lateral directions for plantigrade walking, respectively. Regression equations explained 94% and 44% of the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral COP variability during plantigrade walking. While the range of motion and COP velocity was similar for inverted and everted walking, the COP remained on the lateral and medial aspects of the foot for these two walking conditions, respectively. A reduced anterior-posterior COP range of motion and velocity was demonstrated during equinus walking. Ankle joint motion in the frontal and sagittal planes supported this COP movement, with increased inversion and plantar flexion demonstrated during inverted and equinus conditions, respectively. Results from this study demonstrated the COP kinematics during simulated pathological gait conditions, with the COP trajectory providing an additional tool for the evaluation of patients with pathology. PMID:24447906

Association Between Circulating Osteogenic Progenitor Cells and Disability and Frailty in Older Persons: The Nepean Osteoporosis and Frailty Study.

PubMed

Gunawardene, Piumali; Bermeo, Sandra; Vidal, Christopher; Al-Saedi, Ahmed; Chung, Philip; Boersma, Derek; Phu, Steven; Pokorski, Izabella; Suriyaarachchi, Pushpa; Demontiero, Oddom; Duque, Gustavo

2016-09-01

Circulating osteogenic progenitor (COP) cells are considered as surrogates of the mesenchymal repository in the body. In this study, we hypothesized that COP cells decrease with age and that lower levels of COP cells are associated with greater frailty and disability in older persons. Using well-established clinical criteria, we quantified physical performance and disability and stratified frailty in a random sample of community-dwelling individuals enrolled in the Nepean Osteoporosis and Frailty (NOF) Study (mean age 82.8; N = 77; 70% female; 27 nonfrail, 23 prefrail, and 27 frail). Percentage of COP cells was quantified by flow cytometry. Logistic regression models estimated the relationship between the percentage of COP cells and prevalent disability, poor physical performance, and frailty. We found that aging is associated with a significant decrease in COP cells (p < .001). Lower percentages of COP cells were associated with disability and poor physical performance (p < .001). Older adults with COP cells in the lower quartile were more likely to be frail (odds ratio 2.65, 95% confidence interval 2.72-3.15, p < .001). In conclusion, COP cells in the circulation decrease with age. Lower percentages of COP cells in late life are associated with prevalent frailty and disability. Further longitudinal studies are needed to understand COP cells as a risk stratifier, biomarker, or therapeutic target and to predict disability in frail older persons. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Gerontological Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

77 FR 68149 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed New Collection; Comments Requested: COPS...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-15

... Collection; Comments Requested: COPS Comparative Assessment of Cost Reduction by Agencies Survey ACTION: 60... Collection: Proposed new collection; comments requested. (2) Title of the Form/Collection: COPS Comparative... Office grants or cooperative agreements will be asked complete the COPS Comparative Assessment of Cost...

78 FR 2692 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed New Collection; Comments Requested: COPS...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-14

... Collection; Comments Requested: COPS Comparative Assessment of Cost Reduction by Agencies Survey ACTION: 30...; comments requested. (2) Title of the Form/Collection: COPS Comparative Assessment of Cost Reduction by... will be asked complete the COPS Comparative Assessment of Cost Reduction Survey. The survey will be...

32 CFR 635.24 - Updating the COPS MPRS.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 32 National Defense 4 2014-07-01 2013-07-01 true Updating the COPS MPRS. 635.24 Section 635.24... CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS LAW ENFORCEMENT REPORTING Offense Reporting § 635.24 Updating the COPS MPRS... ensure that every founded offense is reported into the COPS MPRS. Timely and accurate reporting is...

32 CFR 635.24 - Updating the COPS MPRS.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 32 National Defense 4 2012-07-01 2011-07-01 true Updating the COPS MPRS. 635.24 Section 635.24... CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS LAW ENFORCEMENT REPORTING Offense Reporting § 635.24 Updating the COPS MPRS... ensure that every founded offense is reported into the COPS MPRS. Timely and accurate reporting is...

32 CFR 635.24 - Updating the COPS MPRS.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 32 National Defense 4 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Updating the COPS MPRS. 635.24 Section 635.24... CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS LAW ENFORCEMENT REPORTING Offense Reporting § 635.24 Updating the COPS MPRS... ensure that every founded offense is reported into the COPS MPRS. Timely and accurate reporting is...

30 CFR 285.620 - What is a Construction and Operations Plan (COP)?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false What is a Construction and Operations Plan (COP... Information Requirements Construction and Operations Plan for Commercial Leases § 285.620 What is a Construction and Operations Plan (COP)? The COP describes your construction, operations, and conceptual...

Enhanced photoluminescence of Alq3 via patterned array silver dendritic nanostructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hsu, Wei-Hsiu; Hsieh, Ming-Hao; Lo, Shih-Shou

2012-04-01

Various silver nanostructures, semi-ball, jungle, and dendritic, are demonstrated by an electrical deposition process. The formation of silver nanostructures with various morphologies is studied by the mechanism of the diffusion limited aggregation (DLA) model. A array pattern of silver nanostructures can be obtained when the conductive substrate was used in a uniform electrical filed. A thickness 500 nm of Alq3 thin-film was covered on the silver nanostructure by thermal evaporation method. The strongest intensity of Alq3 green emission was observed when the pattern-array dendritic silver nanostructure was covered by Alq3. It can be explained with the plasmonic coupling due to the Alq3 and dendritic nanostructure. The result can help us to further application the patterned-array silver dendritic nanostructure for advanced opto-electronic device.

Evaluating Primary Dendrite Trunk Diameters in Directionally Solidified Al-Si Alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grugel, R. N.; Tewari, S. N.; Poirier, D. R.

2014-01-01

The primary dendrite trunk diameters of Al-Si alloys that were directionally solidified over a range of processing conditions have been measured. These data are analyzed with a model based primarily on an assessment of secondary dendrite arm dissolution in the mushy zone. Good fit with the experimental data is seen and it is suggested that the primary dendrite trunk diameter is a useful metric that correlates well with the actual solidification processing parameters. These results are placed in context with the limited results from the aluminium - 7 wt. % silicon samples directionally solidified aboard the International Space Station as part of the MICAST project.

Dendritic Growth of Hard-Sphere Crystals. Experiment 34

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Russel, W. B.; Chaikin, P. M.; Zhu, Ji-Xiang; Meyer, W. V.; Rogers, R.

1998-01-01

Recent observations of the disorder-order transition for colloidal hard spheres under microgravity revealed dendritic crystallites roughly 1-2 mm in size for samples in the coexistence region of the phase diagram. Order-of-magnitude estimates rationalize the absence of large or dendritic crystals under normal gravity and their stability to annealing in microgravity. A linear stability analysis of the Ackerson and Schaetzel model for crystallization of hard spheres establishes the domain of instability for diffusion-limited growth at small supersaturations. The relationship between hard-sphere and molecular crystal growth is established and exploited to relate the predicted linear instability to the well-developed dendrites observed.

Post-Infectious Organizing Pneumonia: an Indistinguishable and Easily Misdiagnosed Organizing Pneumonia.

PubMed

Zhou, Haijiang; Gu, Wei; Li, Chunsheng

2015-01-01

Post-infectious organizing pneumonia (OP) is a rare clinical entity associated with nonspecific clinical features and can be easily misdiagnosed. This study aimed to investigate the clinical feature differences between cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (COP) and post-infectious OP. We retrospectively analyzed clinical data on demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, radiological findings, treatments, outcomes, and prognosis of 31 cases of COP and 26 cases of post-infectious OP. Patients were treated in Beijing Chao-yang Hospital between July 2005 and January 2013. Compared with patients with COP, patients with post-infectious OP are more prone to show fever (88.5% vs. 38.7%, p < 0.05) and crackles (46.2% vs. 6.5%, p < 0.05). The elevation of PCT serum levels is more obvious in the early stage of post-infectious OP (5.24 ± 1.96 vs. 0.28 ± 0.09) and bilateral lung consolidations and patchy shadows are the most common radiological findings (70.2%). Pathogens are more prone to be confirmed within 48 hours after admission and the diagnosis time is longer (10.0 ± 0.8 vs. 7.2 ± 0.4 days). The incidence of mechanical ventilation (50% vs. 19.4%) and the utilization rate of antibiotics are higher (100.0% vs. 70.9%). The dosage (0.58 ± 0.04 vs. 0.78 ± 0.04 mg) and utilization time of glucocorticoids (5.7 ± 0.4 vs. 7.9 ± 0.8 months) are obviously reduced. The morbidity of post-infectious OP is not uncommon. PCT serum level is helpful in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis, but invasive procedures like bronchoscopic or surgical lung biopsy are the golden-standard methods to confirm diagnosis. Similar to COP, antibiotics are effective in the early stage of post-infectious OP, but glucocorticoids are effective in the late stage. The prognosis of post-infectious OP is good.

Development of High Capacity Split Stirling Cryocooler for HTS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yumoto, Kenta; Nakano, Kyosuke; Hiratsuka, Yoshikatsu

Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd. (SHI) developed a high-power Stirling-type pulse tube cryocooler for cooling high-temperature superconductor (HTS) devices, such as superconductor motors, superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES), and fault current limiters. The experimental results of a prototype pulse tube cryocooler were reported in September 2013. For a U-type expander, the cooling capacity was 151 W at 70 K with a compressor input power of 4 kW. Correspondingly, the coefficient of performance (COP) was about 0.038. However, the efficiency of the cryocooler is required to be COP > 0.1 and it was found that, theoretically, it is difficult to further improve the efficiency of a pulse tube cryocooler because the workflow generated at the hot end of the pulse tube cannot be recovered. Therefore, it was decided to change the expander to a free-piston type from a pulse tube type. A prototype was developed and preliminary experiments were conducted. A cooling capacity of 120 W at 70 K with a compressor input power of 2.15 kW with corresponding COP of 0.056, was obtained. The detailed results are reported in this paper.

The effect of bearing friction torques on the primary stability of press-fit acetabular cups: A novel in vitro method.

PubMed

Alexander, Jahnke; Stefan, Schroeder; Alfonso, Fonseca Ulloa Carlos; Adam, Ahmed Gafar; Alexander, Ishaque Bernd; Markus, Rickert

2018-05-10

Aseptic loosening is the main reason for revision of total hip arthroplasty, and relative micromotions between cementless acetabular cups and bone play an important role regarding their comparatively high loosening rate. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to analyze the influence of resulting frictional torques on the primary stability of press-fit acetabular cups subjected to two different bearing partners. A cementless press-fit cup was implanted in bone-like foam. Primary stability of the cup was analyzed by determining spatial total, translational and rotational interface micromotions by means of an eddy current sensor measuring system. Torque transmission into the cup was realized by three synchronous servomotors considering resultant friction torques based on constant friction for ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC: µ = 0.044; max. resultant torque: 1.5 Nm) and for ceramic-on-polyethylene (CoP: µ = 0.063; max. resultant torque: 1.9 Nm) bearing partners. Rotational micromotion of CoC was 8.99 ± 0.85µm and of CoP 13.39 ± 1.43µm. Translational micromotion of CoC was 29.93 ± 1.44µm and of CoP 39.91 ± 2.25µm. Maximum total relative micromotions were 37.10 ± 1.07µm for CoC and 51.64 ± 2.18µm for CoP. Micromotions resulting from CoC were statistically lower than those resulting from CoP (p < 0.05). The described 3D-measuring set-up offers a novel in vitro method of measuring primary stability of acetabular cups. We can therefore conclude, that primary stability of acetabular cup systems can be observed using either the lower friction curve (CoC) or the higher friction curve (CoP). In future studies different cup designs or cup fixation mechanisms may be tested and compared in vitro and assessed prior to implantation. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Spine Formation and Maturation in the Developing Rat Auditory Cortex

PubMed Central

Schachtele, Scott J.; Losh, Joe; Dailey, Michael E.; Green, Steven H.

2013-01-01

The rat auditory cortex is organized as a tonotopic map of sound frequency. This map is broadly tuned at birth and is refined during the first 3 weeks postnatal. The structural correlates underlying tonotopic map maturation and reorganization during development are poorly understood. We employed fluorescent dye ballistic labeling (“DiOlistics”) alone, or in conjunction with immunohistochemistry, to quantify synaptogenesis in the auditory cortex of normal hearing rats. We show that the developmental appearance of dendritic protrusions, which include both immature filopodia and mature spines, on layers 2/3, 4, and 5 pyramidal and layer 4 spiny nonpyramidal neurons occurs in three phases: slow addition of dendritic protrusions from postnatal day 4 (P4) to P9, rapid addition of dendritic protrusions from P9 to P19, and a final phase where mature protrusion density is achieved (>P21). Next, we combined DiOlistics with immunohistochemical labeling of bassoon, a presynaptic scaffolding protein, as a novel method to categorize dendritic protrusions as either filopodia or mature spines in cortex fixed in vivo. Using this method we observed an increase in the spine-to-filopodium ratio from P9–P16, indicating a period of rapid spine maturation. Previous studies report mature spines as being shorter in length compared to filopodia. We similarly observed a reduction in protrusion length between P9 and P16, corroborating our immunohistochemical spine maturation data. These studies show that dendritic protrusion formation and spine maturation occur rapidly at a time previously shown to correspond to auditory cortical tonotopic map refinement (P11–P14), providing a structural correlate of physiological maturation. PMID:21800311

Redox control of copper homeostasis in cyanobacteria.

PubMed

López-Maury, Luis; Giner-Lamia, Joaquín; Florencio, Francisco J

2012-12-01

Copper is essential for all living organisms but is toxic when present in excess. Therefore organisms have developed homeostatic mechanism to tightly regulate its cellular concentration. In a recent study we have shown that CopRS two-component system is essential for copper resistance in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp PCC 6803. This two-component regulates expression of a heavy-metal RND type copper efflux system (encoded by copBAC) as well as its own expression (in the copMRS operon) in response to an excess of copper in the media. We have also observed that both operons are induced under condition that reduces the photosynthetic electron flow and this induction depends on the presence of the copper-protein, plastocyanin. These findings, together with CopS localization to the thylakoid membrane and its periplasmic domain being able to bind copper directly, suggest that CopS could be involved in copper detection in both the periplasm and the thylakoid lumen.

beta'-COP, a novel subunit of coatomer.

PubMed Central

Stenbeck, G; Harter, C; Brecht, A; Herrmann, D; Lottspeich, F; Orci, L; Wieland, F T

1993-01-01

Several lines of evidence favour the hypothesis that intracellular biosynthetic protein transport in eukaryotes is mediated by non-clathrin-coated vesicles (for a review see Rothman and Orci, 1992). The vesicles have been isolated and a set of their surface proteins has been characterized as coat proteins (COPs). These COPs exist in the cytosol as a preformed complex, the coatomer, which was prior to this study known to contain six subunits: four (alpha-, beta-, gamma- and delta-COP) with molecular weights between 160 and 58 kDa, and two additional proteins of approximately 36 and 20 kDa, epsilon- and xi-COP. Here we describe a novel subunit of the coatomer complex, beta'-COP. This subunit occurs in amounts stoichiometric to the established COPs both in the coatomer and in nonclathrin-coated vesicles and shows homology to the beta-subunits of trimeric G proteins. Images PMID:8334999

Phase-field-crystal investigation of the morphology of a steady-state dendrite tip on the atomic scale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Sai; Wang, Jincheng; Li, Junjie; Wang, Zhijun; Guo, Yaolin; Guo, Can; Zhou, Yaohe

2017-06-01

Through phase-field-crystal (PFC) simulations, we investigated, on the atomic scale, the crucial role played by interface energy anisotropy and growth driving force during the morphological evolution of a dendrite tip at low growth driving force. In the layer-by-layer growth manner, the interface energy anisotropy drives the forefront of the dendrite tip to evolve to be highly similar to the corner of the corresponding equilibrium crystal from the aspects of atom configuration and morphology, and thus affects greatly the formation and growth of a steady-state dendrite tip. Meanwhile, the driving force substantially influences the part behind the forefront of the dendrite tip, rather than the forefront itself. However, as the driving force increases enough to change the layer-by-layer growth to the multilayer growth, the morphology of the dendrite tip's forefront is completely altered. Parabolic fitting of the dendrite tip reveals that an increase in the influence of interface energy anisotropy makes dendrite tips deviate increasingly from a parabolic shape. By quantifying the deviations under various interface energy anisotropies and growth driving forces, it is suggested that a perfect parabola is an asymptotic limit for the shape of the dendrite tips. Furthermore, the atomic scale description of the dendrite tip obtained in the PFC simulation is compatible with the mesoscopic results obtained in the phase-field simulation in terms of the dendrite tip's morphology and the stability criterion constant.

A qualitative inquiry into the development and facilitation of a science education learning community through participation in an online graduate program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Callihan, Laurie Ann Perryman

This study is a qualitative inquiry considering the development and facilitation of a science education community of practice according to the definition of Wenger (1998, 1999) through participation in the graduate online science education program (GOSEP) Master's Degree track. Three research questions were considered: (1) In what ways do interactions within the GOSEP community of practice impact development of the teacher/student from outsider to novice to apprentice to master (Wenger, 1999)? (2) In what ways does personal development impact the community of practice? (3) In what ways do the interactions of professors with students impact the development of a community of practice in the GOSEP? The qualitative research frame was Integral Methodological Pluralism along with a hermeneutical approach to textual analysis and an autoethnographic viewpoint. The participants included seven students and two professors from the GOSEP. Data analyzed was in situ Blackboard(TM) and other online venues from classes dating Fall 2007 through Summer 2009 as well as semi-structured interviews, follow-ups, and member-check surveys. Results supported the assertions that (1) a community of practice (CoP) existed in the GOSEP, (2) the CoP assisted individual learning and growth from apprentice to novice to master, (3) that the CoP was most healthy and supported apprentice to master growth when a diversity of adult developmental levels existed in the group, and (4) the interactions of the professors in allowing the students to take on master roles and limiting their own control within the CoP contributed to the healthy development of students from apprentice to novice to master. Implications of this research suggest that the CoP model of online learning is effective and productive in allowing students to gain experience and knowledge in the skills, background knowledge, theory, and practice of becoming masters in the practice for which the community is designed to study. Future research engaging online CoPs with greater numbers, longer periods of study, and comparative studies with other types of online programs is suggested.

Cryptogenic organizing pneumonia masquerading as lung carcinoma: A case report and review of the literature

PubMed Central

Huo, Ji-Ping; Liu, Cui; Jin, Bei-Bei; Duan, Feng-Xia; Mei, Sheng-Hui; Li, Xin-Gang; Zhao, Zhi-Gang

2018-01-01

Cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (COP) is a rare pulmonary disorder of unknown etiology. COP with hemoptysis as the primary presenting symptom has rarely been reported. The present study reported a case of COP that resembled lung carcinoma with hemoptysis as the only clinical symptom. The patient recovered well following thoracoscope surgery. A literature review of 119 COP cases between 1995 and 2015 was presented. Cough, fever and dyspnea were the most common clinical manifestations. The most common imaging manifestations were multiple or single consolidation, lung nodules, migratory sign, reversed halo sign, and multiple ground-glass opacity. A total of 3 cases exhibited COP accompanied by lung cancer. Glucocorticoids were effective for the majority of cases and invasive surgeries were implemented in most cases. The majority of cases recovered or relieved, and the prognosis of COP was relatively good. COP was easily confused with lung tumor and it is necessary to make differential diagnosis between COP and lung cancer. Invasive surgery should be avoided when possible to avoid or reduce patient trauma. PMID:29399056

The Arabidopsis COP9 signalosome subunit 7 is a model PCI domain protein with subdomains involved in COP9 signalosome assembly.

PubMed

Dessau, Moshe; Halimi, Yair; Erez, Tamir; Chomsky-Hecht, Orna; Chamovitz, Daniel A; Hirsch, Joel A

2008-10-01

The COP9 Signalosome (CSN) is a multiprotein complex that was originally identified in Arabidopsis thaliana as a negative regulator of photomorphogenesis and subsequently shown to be a general eukaryotic regulator of developmental signaling. The CSN plays various roles, but it has been most often implicated in regulating protein degradation pathways. Six of eight CSN subunits bear a sequence motif called PCI. Here, we report studies of subunit 7 (CSN7) from Arabidopsis, which contains such a motif. Our in vitro and structural results, based on 1.5 A crystallographic data, enable a definition of a PCI domain, built from helical bundle and winged helix subdomains. Using functional binding assays, we demonstrate that the PCI domain (residues 1 to 169) interacts with two other PCI proteins, CSN8 and CSN1. CSN7 interactions with CSN8 use both PCI subdomains. Furthermore, we show that a C-terminal tail outside of this PCI domain is responsible for association with the non-PCI subunit, CSN6. In vivo studies of transgenic plants revealed that the overexpressed CSN7 PCI domain does not assemble into the CSN, nor can it complement a null mutation of CSN7. However, a CSN7 clone that contains the PCI domain plus part of the CSN6 binding domain can complement the null mutation in terms of seedling viability and photomorphogenesis. These transgenic plants, though, are defective in adult growth, suggesting that the CSN7 C-terminal tail plays additional functional roles. Together, the findings have implications for CSN assembly and function, highlighting necessary interactions between subunits.

Diversity of sesquiterpene synthases in the basidiomycete Coprinus cinereus

PubMed Central

Agger, Sean; Lopez-Gallego, Fernando; Schmidt-Dannert, Claudia

2009-01-01

SUMMARY Fungi are a rich source of bioactive secondary metabolites and mushroom-forming fungi (Agaricomycetes) are especially known for the synthesis of numerous bioactive and often cytotoxic sesquiterpenoid secondary metabolites. Compared to the large number of sesquiterpene synthases identified in plants, less than a handful of unique sesquiterpene synthases have been described from fungi. Here we describe the functional characterization of six sesquiterpene synthases (Cop1 to Cop6) and two terpene oxidizing cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (Cox1 and Cox2) from Coprinus cinereus. The genes were cloned and, except for cop5, functionally expressed in Escherichia coli and/or Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Cop1 and Cop2 each synthesize germacrene A as the major product. Cop3 was identified as a α-muurolene synthase, an enzyme that has not been described previously, while Cop4 synthesizes δ-cadinene as its major product. Cop6 was originally annotated as a trichodiene synthase homolog, but instead was found to catalyze highly specific the synthesis of α-cuprenene. Co-expression of cop6 and the two monooxygenase genes next to it yields oxygenated α-cuprenene derivatives, including cuparophenol, suggesting that these genes encode the enzymes for the biosynthesis of antimicrobial quinone sesquiterpenoids (known as lagopodins) that were previously isolated from C. cinereus and other Coprinus species. PMID:19400802

c-Type Cytochrome Assembly Is a Key Target of Copper Toxicity within the Bacterial Periplasm

PubMed Central

Durand, Anne; Azzouzi, Asma; Bourbon, Marie-Line; Steunou, Anne-Soisig; Liotenberg, Sylviane; Maeshima, Akinori; Astier, Chantal; Argentini, Manuela; Saito, Shingo

2015-01-01

ABSTRACT In the absence of a tight control of copper entrance into cells, bacteria have evolved different systems to control copper concentration within the cytoplasm and the periplasm. Central to these systems, the Cu+ ATPase CopA plays a major role in copper tolerance and translocates copper from the cytoplasm to the periplasm. The fate of copper in the periplasm varies among species. Copper can be sequestered, oxidized, or released outside the cells. Here we describe the identification of CopI, a periplasmic protein present in many proteobacteria, and show its requirement for copper tolerance in Rubrivivax gelatinosus. The ΔcopI mutant is more susceptible to copper than the Cu+ ATPase copA mutant. CopI is induced by copper, localized in the periplasm and could bind copper. Interestingly, copper affects cytochrome c membrane complexes (cbb3 oxidase and photosystem) in both ΔcopI and copA-null mutants, but the causes are different. In the copA mutant, heme and chlorophyll synthesis are affected, whereas in ΔcopI mutant, the decrease is a consequence of impaired cytochrome c assembly. This impact on c-type cytochromes would contribute also to the copper toxicity in the periplasm of the wild-type cells when they are exposed to high copper concentrations. PMID:26396241

Redox-responsive Covalent Organic Nanosheets from Viologens and Calix[4]arene for Iodine and Toxic Dye Capture.

PubMed

Skorjanc, Tina; Shetty, Dinesh; Sharma, Sudhir; Raya, Jesus; Traboulsi, Hassan; Han, Dong-Suk; Lalla, Jayesh; Newlon, Ryan; Jagannathan, Ramesh; Kirmizialtin, Serdal; Olsen, John-Carl; Trabolsi, Ali

2018-04-17

Owing to their chemical and thermal stabilities, high uptake capacities, and easy recyclability, covalent organic polymers (COPs) have shown promise as pollutant sponges. Here, we describe the use of diazo coupling to synthesize two cationic COPs, COP1++ and COP2++, that incorporate a viologen-based molecular switch and an organic macrocycle, calix[4]arene. Both COPs form nanosheets with height profiles of 6.00 and 8.00 nm, respectively, based on AFM measurements. The sheets remain morphologically intact upon one- or two-electron reductions of their viologen subunits. MD simulations of the dicationic COPs indicate that calix[4]arene adopts a partial cone conformation and that, in height, the individual 2D polymer layers are 5.48 Å in COP1++ and 5.65 Å in COP2++, which, together with the AFM measurements, suggests that the nanosheets are composed of 11 and 14 layers, respectively. The COPs, in either dicationic, radical cationic, or neutral form exhibit high affinity for iodine, reaching up to 200% mass increase when exposed to iodine vapor at 70 °C, which makes the materials among the best-performing nanosheets for iodine capture reported in the literature. In addition, the COPs effectively remove Congo red from solution in the pH range of 2 - 10, reaching nearly 100% removal within 15 minutes at acidic pH. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Salt Stress and Ethylene Antagonistically Regulate Nucleocytoplasmic Partitioning of COP1 to Control Seed Germination1[OPEN

PubMed Central

Shi, Hui; Gu, Juntao; Dong, Jingao; Deng, Xing Wang

2016-01-01

Seed germination, a critical stage initiating the life cycle of a plant, is severely affected by salt stress. However, the underlying mechanism of salt inhibition of seed germination (SSG) is unclear. Here, we report that the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) CONSTITUTIVE PHOTOMORPHOGENESIS1 (COP1) counteracts SSG. Genetic assays provide evidence that SSG in loss of function of the COP1 mutant was stronger than this in the wild type. A GUS-COP1 fusion was constitutively localized to the nucleus in radicle cells. Salt treatment caused COP1 to be retained in the cytosol, but the addition of ethylene precursor 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate had the reverse effect on the translocation of COP1 to the nucleus, revealing that ethylene and salt exert opposite regulatory effects on the localization of COP1 in germinating seeds. However, loss of function of the ETHYLENE INSENSITIVE3 (EIN3) mutant impaired the ethylene-mediated rescue of the salt restriction of COP1 to the nucleus. Further research showed that the interaction between COP1 and LONG HYPOCOTYL5 (HY5) had a role in SSG. Correspondingly, SSG in loss of function of HY5 was suppressed. Biochemical detection showed that salt promoted the stabilization of HY5, whereas ethylene restricted its accumulation. Furthermore, salt treatment stimulated and ethylene suppressed transcription of ABA INSENSITIVE5 (ABI5), which was directly transcriptionally regulated by HY5. Together, our results reveal that salt stress and ethylene antagonistically regulate nucleocytoplasmic partitioning of COP1, thereby controlling Arabidopsis seed germination via the COP1-mediated down-regulation of HY5 and ABI5. These findings enhance our understanding of the stress response and have great potential for application in agricultural production. PMID:26850275

Comparison of centre of gravity and centre of pressure patterns in the golf swing.

PubMed

Smith, Aimée C; Roberts, Jonathan R; Kong, Pui Wah; Forrester, Stephanie E

2017-03-01

Analysing the centre of pressure (COP) and centre of gravity (COG) could reveal stabilising strategies used by golfers throughout the golf swing. This study identified and compared golfers' COP and COG patterns throughout the golf swing in medial-lateral (ML) and anterior-posterior (AP) directions using principal component analysis (PCA) and examined their relationship to clubhead velocity. Three-dimensional marker trajectories were collected using Vicon motion analysis and force plate data from two Kistler force plates for 22 low-handicap golfers during drives. Golfers' COG and COP were expressed as a percentage distance between their feet. PCA was performed on COG and COP in ML and AP directions. Relationships between principal component (PC) scores were examined using Pearson correlation and regression analysis used to examine the relationship with clubhead velocity. ML COP movements varied in magnitude (PC1), rate of change and timing (PC2 and PC3). The COP and COG PC1 scores were strongly correlated in both directions (ML: r = 0.90, P < .05; AP: r = 0.81, P < .05). Clubhead velocity, explained by three PCs (74%), related to timing and rate of change in COP ML near downswing (PC2 and PC3) and timing of COG ML late backswing (PC2). The relationship between COP ML and COG ML PC1 scores identified extremes of COP and COG patterns in golfers and could indicate a golfer's dynamic balance. Golfers with earlier movement of COP to the front foot (PC2) and rate of change (PC3) patterns in ML COP, prior to the downswing, may be more likely to generate higher clubhead velocity.

Cardiorespiratory optimal point during exercise testing as a predictor of all-cause mortality.

PubMed

Ramos, Plínio S; Araújo, Claudio Gil S

2017-04-01

The cardiorespiratory optimal point (COP) is a novel index, calculated as the minimum oxygen ventilatory equivalent (VE/VO 2 ) obtained during cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). In this study we demonstrate the prognostic value of COP both independently and in combination with maximum oxygen consumption (VO 2 max) in community-dwelling adults. Maximal cycle ergometer CPET was performed in 3331 adults (66% men) aged 40-85 years, healthy (18%) or with chronic disease (81%). COP cut-off values of <22, 22-30, and >30 were selected based on the log-rank test. Risk discrimination was assessed using COP as an independent predictor and combined with VO 2 max. Median follow-up was 6.4 years (7.1% mortality). Subjects with COP >30 demonstrated increased mortality compared to those with COP <22 (hazard ratio [HR] 6.86, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.69-12.75, p<0.001). Multivariate analysis including gender, age, body mass index, and the forced expiratory volume in 1 s/vital capacity ratio showed adjusted HR for COP >30 of 3.72 (95% CI 1.98-6.98; p<0.001) and for COP 22-30 of 2.15 (95% CI 1.15-4.03, p<0.001). Combining COP and VO 2 max data further enhanced risk discrimination. COP >30, either independently or in combination with low VO 2 max, is a good predictor of all-cause mortality in community-dwelling adults (healthy or with chronic disease). COP is a submaximal prognostic index that is simple to obtain and adds to CPET assessment, especially for adults unable or unwilling to achieve maximal exercise. Copyright © 2017 Sociedade Portuguesa de Cardiologia. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Age-related differences in quality of standing balance using a composite score.

PubMed

Pasma, Jantsje H; Bijlsma, Astrid Y; van der Bij, Mark D W; Arendzen, J Hans; Meskers, Carel G M; Maier, Andrea B

2014-01-01

Age-related differences in standing balance are not detected by testing the ability to maintain balance. Quality of standing balance might be more sensitive to detect age-related differences. To study age-related differences in quality of standing balance, center of pressure (CoP) movement was evaluated using a wide range of CoP parameters in several standing conditions in healthy young and old participants. In 35 healthy young (18-30 years) and 75 healthy old (70-80 years) participants, CoP movement was assessed in eight standing conditions on a force plate, including side-by-side, one-leg, semi-tandem and tandem stance, both with eyes open and eyes closed. Direction-specific CoP composite scores were calculated from standardized single CoP parameters (mean amplitude, amplitude variability, mean velocity, velocity variability and range) in anterior-posterior (AP) and medial-lateral (ML) direction. Linear regression analysis was used to detect age-related differences in single CoP parameters and composite scores - adjusted for gender, height and weight. Overall, single CoP parameters were higher in old compared to young participants, but no single CoP parameter consistently demonstrated the largest effect size for all standing conditions. Age-related differences were demonstrated for CoP composite scores in AP direction (tandem eyes open; semi-tandem eyes closed; p < 0.001). CoP composite scores in ML direction were consistently higher for all standing conditions in old compared to young participants (p < 0.001). CoP composite scores in ML direction were the most consistent parameters to detect age-related differences in quality of standing balance in healthy participants and might be of clinical value to detect subtle changes in quality of standing balance. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel

Salt Stress and Ethylene Antagonistically Regulate Nucleocytoplasmic Partitioning of COP1 to Control Seed Germination.

PubMed

Yu, Yanwen; Wang, Juan; Shi, Hui; Gu, Juntao; Dong, Jingao; Deng, Xing Wang; Huang, Rongfeng

2016-04-01

Seed germination, a critical stage initiating the life cycle of a plant, is severely affected by salt stress. However, the underlying mechanism of salt inhibition of seed germination (SSG) is unclear. Here, we report that the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) CONSTITUTIVE PHOTOMORPHOGENESIS1 (COP1) counteracts SSG Genetic assays provide evidence that SSG in loss of function of the COP1 mutant was stronger than this in the wild type. A GUS-COP1 fusion was constitutively localized to the nucleus in radicle cells. Salt treatment caused COP1 to be retained in the cytosol, but the addition of ethylene precursor 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate had the reverse effect on the translocation of COP1 to the nucleus, revealing that ethylene and salt exert opposite regulatory effects on the localization of COP1 in germinating seeds. However, loss of function of the ETHYLENE INSENSITIVE3 (EIN3) mutant impaired the ethylene-mediated rescue of the salt restriction of COP1 to the nucleus. Further research showed that the interaction between COP1 and LONG HYPOCOTYL5 (HY5) had a role in SSG Correspondingly, SSG in loss of function of HY5 was suppressed. Biochemical detection showed that salt promoted the stabilization of HY5, whereas ethylene restricted its accumulation. Furthermore, salt treatment stimulated and ethylene suppressed transcription of ABA INSENSITIVE5 (ABI5), which was directly transcriptionally regulated by HY5. Together, our results reveal that salt stress and ethylene antagonistically regulate nucleocytoplasmic partitioning of COP1, thereby controlling Arabidopsis seed germination via the COP1-mediated down-regulation of HY5 and ABI5. These findings enhance our understanding of the stress response and have great potential for application in agricultural production. © 2016 American Society of Plant Biologists. All Rights Reserved.

The morphology and electrical geometry of rat jaw-elevator motoneurones.

PubMed Central

Moore, J A; Appenteng, K

1991-01-01

1. The aim of this work was to quantify both the morphology and electrical geometry of the dendritic trees of jaw-elevator motoneurones. To do this we have made intracellular recordings from identified motoneurones in anaesthetized rats, determined their membrane properties and then filled them with horseradish peroxidase by ionophoretic ejection. Four neurones were subsequently fully reconstructed and the lengths and diameters of all the dendritic segments measured. 2. The mean soma diameter was 25 microns and values of mean dendritic length for individual cells ranged from 514 to 773 microns. Dendrites branched on average 9.1 times to produce 10.2 end-terminations. Dendritic segments could be represented as constant diameter cylinders between branch points. Values of dendritic surface area ranged from 1.08 to 2.52 x 10(5) microns 2 and values of dendritic to total surface area from 98 to 99%. 3. At branch points the ratio of the summed diameters of the daughter dendrites to the 3/2 power against the parent dendrite to the 3/2 power was exactly 1.0. Therefore the individual branch points could be collapsed into a single cylinder. Furthermore for an individual dendrite the diameter of this cylinder remained constant with increasing electrical distance from the soma. Thus individual dendrites can be represented electrically as cylinders of constant diameter. 4. However dendrites of a given neurone terminated at different electrical distances from the soma. The equivalent-cylinder diameter of the combined dendritic tree remained constant over the proximal half and then showed a pronounced reduction over the distal half. The reduction in equivalent diameter could be ascribed to the termination of dendrites at differing electrical distances from the soma. Therefore the complete dendritic tree of these motoneurones is best represented as a cylinder over the proximal half of their electrical length but as a cone over the distal half. PMID:1804966

Successful Establishment of Plasmids R1 and pMV158 in a New Host Requires the Relief of the Transcriptional Repression of Their Essential rep Genes

PubMed Central

Ruiz-Masó, José Á.; Luengo, Luis M.; Moreno-Córdoba, Inmaculada; Díaz-Orejas, Ramón; del Solar, Gloria

2017-01-01

Although differing in size, encoded traits, host range, and replication mechanism, both narrow-host-range theta-type conjugative enterobacterial plasmid R1 and promiscuous rolling-circle-type mobilizable streptococcal plasmid pMV158 encode a transcriptional repressor protein, namely CopB in R1 and CopG in pMV158, involved in replication control. The gene encoding CopB or CopG is cotranscribed with a downstream gene that encodes the replication initiator Rep protein of the corresponding plasmid. However, whereas CopG is an auto-repressor that inhibits transcription of the entire copG-repB operon, CopB is expressed constitutively and represses a second, downstream promoter that directs transcription of repA. As a consequence of the distinct regulatory pathways implied by CopB and CopG, these repressor proteins play a different role in control of plasmid replication during the steady state: while CopB has an auxiliary role by keeping repressed the regulated promoter whenever the plasmid copy number is above a low threshold, CopG plays a primary role by acting coordinately with RNAII. Here, we have studied the role of the regulatory circuit mediated by these transcriptional repressors during the establishment of these two plasmids in a new host cell, and found that excess Cop repressor molecules in the recipient cell result in a severe decrease in the frequency and/or the velocity of appearance of transformant colonies for the cognate plasmid but not for unrelated plasmids. Using the pMV158 replicon as a model system, together with highly sensitive real-time qPCR and inverse PCR methods, we have also analyzed the effect of CopG on the kinetics of repopulation of the plasmid in Streptococcus pneumoniae. We show that, whereas in the absence of CopG pMV158 repopulation occurs mainly during the first 45 min following plasmid transfer, the presence of the transcriptional repressor in the recipient cell severely impairs the replicon repopulation and makes the plasmid replicate at approximately the same rate as the chromosome at any time after transformation, which results in maximal plasmid loss rate in the absence of selection. Overall, these findings indicate that unrepressed activity of the Cop-regulated promoter is crucial for the successful colonization of the recipient bacterial cells by the plasmid. PMID:29250051

Tactical Mission Command (TMC)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-03-01

capabilities to Army commanders and their staffs, consisting primarily of a user-customizable Common Operating Picture ( COP ) enabled with real-time... COP viewer and data management capability. It is a collaborative, visualization and planning application that also provides a common map display... COP ): Display the COP consisting of the following:1 Friendly forces determined by the commander including subordinate and supporting units at

30 CFR 285.636 - What notices must I provide MMS following approval of my COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... approval of my COP? 285.636 Section 285.636 Mineral Resources MINERALS MANAGEMENT SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF... SHELF Plans and Information Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop § 285.636 What notices must I provide MMS following approval of my COP? You must notify MMS in writing of the following events, within...

30 CFR 585.636 - What notices must I provide BOEM following approval of my COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... approval of my COP? 585.636 Section 585.636 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT, DEPARTMENT... CONTINENTAL SHELF Plans and Information Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop § 585.636 What notices must I provide BOEM following approval of my COP? You must notify BOEM in writing of the following...

30 CFR 285.636 - What notices must I provide MMS following approval of my COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... approval of my COP? 285.636 Section 285.636 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT, REGULATION... FACILITIES ON THE OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF Plans and Information Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop § 285.636 What notices must I provide MMS following approval of my COP? You must notify MMS in writing...

30 CFR 585.636 - What notices must I provide BOEM following approval of my COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... approval of my COP? 585.636 Section 585.636 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT, DEPARTMENT... CONTINENTAL SHELF Plans and Information Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop § 585.636 What notices must I provide BOEM following approval of my COP? You must notify BOEM in writing of the following...

30 CFR 585.636 - What notices must I provide BOEM following approval of my COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... approval of my COP? 585.636 Section 585.636 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT, DEPARTMENT... CONTINENTAL SHELF Plans and Information Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop § 585.636 What notices must I provide BOEM following approval of my COP? You must notify BOEM in writing of the following...

Understanding balance differences in individuals with multiple sclerosis with mild disability: an investigation of differences in sensory feedback on postural control during a Romberg task.

PubMed

Denommé, Luke T; Mandalfino, Patricia; Cinelli, Michael E

2014-06-01

A major presenting symptom in 'individuals with multiple sclerosis with mild balance disability' (IwMS) is poor postural control, resulting from slowed spinal somatosensory conduction. Postural control deficits in IwMS are most apparent when vision is removed and the base of support is reduced such is the case during tandem and single support stances. The current study used center of pressure (COP) measurements to determine whether postural control differences exist between IwMS and either 'healthy age-matched individuals' (HAMI) or 'community-dwelling older adults' (OA). Postural control was evaluated using a Romberg standing task, which required participants to stand with their feet together and hands by their sides for 45 s with either their eyes open or closed. Results revealed that COP velocity root mean square was greater in IwMS and their COP position was closer to their self-selected maximum stability limits (e.g., greater Standing Index proportion) when vision was removed compared to HAMI. Conversely, IwMS displayed similar postural control characteristics to OA. The current study highlights two novel findings: (1) the utility of novel COP measurements to assess differences in the level of postural control in IwMS; and (2) the benefit of assessing postural control levels in IwMS to not only a population with a fully intact and functional postural control system (HAMI) but also to another population that is thought to experience postural control deficits (OA).

On the drag of model dendrite fragments at low Reynolds number

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zakhem, R.; Weidman, P. D.; Degroh, H. C., III

1993-01-01

An experimental study of low Reynolds number drag on laboratory models of dendrite fragments has been conducted. The terminal velocities of the dendrites undergoing free fall along their axis of symmetry were measured in a large Stokes flow facility. Corrections for wall interference give nearly linear drag vs Reynolds number curves. Corrections for both wall interference and inertia effects show that the dendrite Stokes settling velocities are always less than that of a sphere of equal mass and volume. In the Stokes limit, the settling speed ratio is found to correlate well with primary dendrite arm aspect ratio and a second dimensionless shape paremeter which serves as a measure of the fractal-like nature of the dendrite models. These results can be used to estimate equiaxed grain velocities and distance of travel in metal castings. The drag measurements may be used in numerical codes to calculate the movement of grains in a convecting melt in an effort to determine macrosegregation patterns caused by the sink/float mechanism.

Isothermal dendritic growth: A low gravity experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Glicksman, M. E.; Hahn, R. C.; Lograsso, T. A.; Rubinstein, E. R.; Selleck, M. E.; Winsa, E.

1988-01-01

The Isothermal Dendritic Growth Experiment is an active crystal growth experiment designed to test dendritic growth theory at low undercoolings where convection prohibits such studies at 1 g. The experiment will be essentially autonomous, though limited in-flight interaction through a computer interface is planned. One of the key components of the apparatus will be a crystal growth chamber capable of achieving oriented single crystal dendritic growth. Recent work indicates that seeding the chamber with a crystal of the proper orientation will not, in and of itself, be sufficient to meet this requirement. Additional flight hardware and software required for the STS flight experiment are currently being developed at NASA Lewis Research Center and at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

Interactions between airway epithelial cells and dendritic cells during viral infections using an in vitro co-culture model

EPA Science Inventory

Rationale: Historically, single cell culture models have been limited in pathological and physiological relevance. A co-culture model of dendritic cells (DCs) and differentiated human airway epithelial cells was developed to examine potential interactions between these two cell t...

α2-COP is involved in early secretory traffic in Arabidopsis and is required for plant growth

PubMed Central

Gimeno-Ferrer, Fátima; Pastor-Cantizano, Noelia; Bernat-Silvestre, César; Selvi-Martínez, Pilar; Vera-Sirera, Francisco; Gao, Caiji; Perez-Amador, Miguel Angel; Jiang, Liwen; Aniento, Fernando

2017-01-01

Abstract COP (coat protein) I-coated vesicles mediate intra-Golgi transport and retrograde transport from the Golgi to the endoplasmic reticulum. These vesicles form through the action of the small GTPase ADP-ribosylation factor 1 (ARF1) and the COPI heptameric protein complex (coatomer), which consists of seven subunits (α-, β-, β′-, γ-, δ-, ε- and ζ-COP). In contrast to mammals and yeast, several isoforms for coatomer subunits, with the exception of γ and δ, have been identified in Arabidopsis. To understand the role of COPI proteins in plant biology, we have identified and characterized a loss-of-function mutant of α2-COP, an Arabidopsis α-COP isoform. The α2-cop mutant displayed defects in plant growth, including small rosettes, stems and roots and mislocalization of p24δ5, a protein of the p24 family containing a C-terminal dilysine motif involved in COPI binding. The α2-cop mutant also exhibited abnormal morphology of the Golgi apparatus. Global expression analysis of the α2-cop mutant revealed altered expression of plant cell wall-associated genes. In addition, a strong upregulation of SEC31A, which encodes a subunit of the COPII coat, was observed in the α2-cop mutant; this also occurs in a mutant of a gene upstream of COPI assembly, GNL1, which encodes an ARF-guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF). These findings suggest that loss of α2-COP affects the expression of secretory pathway genes. PMID:28025315

Global Transcriptional Profiles of the Copper Responses in the Cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803

PubMed Central

Giner-Lamia, Joaquin; López-Maury, Luis; Florencio, Francisco J.

2014-01-01

Copper is an essential element involved in fundamental processes like respiration and photosynthesis. However, it becomes toxic at high concentration, which has forced organisms to control its cellular concentration. We have recently described a copper resistance system in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803, which is mediated by the two-component system, CopRS, a RND metal transport system, CopBAC and a protein of unknown function, CopM. Here, we report the transcriptional responses to copper additions at non-toxic (0.3 µM) and toxic concentrations (3 µM) in the wild type and in the copper sensitive copR mutant strain. While 0.3 µM copper slightly stimulated metabolism and promoted the exchange between cytochrome c6 and plastocyanin as soluble electron carriers, the addition of 3 µM copper catalyzed the formation of ROS, led to a general stress response and induced expression of Fe-S cluster biogenesis genes. According to this, a double mutant strain copRsufR, which expresses constitutively the sufBCDS operon, tolerated higher copper concentration than the copR mutant strain, suggesting that Fe-S clusters are direct targets of copper toxicity in Synechocystis. In addition we have also demonstrated that InrS, a nickel binding transcriptional repressor that belong to the CsoR family of transcriptional factor, was involved in heavy metal homeostasis, including copper, in Synechocystis. Finally, global gene expression analysis of the copR mutant strain suggested that CopRS only controls the expression of copMRS and copBAC operons in response to copper. PMID:25268225

30 CFR 585.902 - What are the general requirements for decommissioning for facilities authorized under my SAP, COP...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... decommissioning for facilities authorized under my SAP, COP, or GAP? 585.902 Section 585.902 Mineral Resources... authorized under my SAP, COP, or GAP? (a) Except as otherwise authorized by BOEM under § 585.909, within 2... decommissioning the facilities under your SAP, COP, or GAP, you must submit a decommissioning application and...

20 CFR 10.222 - When may an employer terminate COP which has already begun?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false When may an employer terminate COP which has...' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Controversion and Termination of Cop § 10.222 When may an employer terminate COP which has already begun? (a) Where the employer has continued the pay of the...

20 CFR 10.222 - When may an employer terminate COP which has already begun?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2014-04-01 2012-04-01 true When may an employer terminate COP which has...' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Controversion and Termination of Cop § 10.222 When may an employer terminate COP which has already begun? (a) Where the employer has continued the pay of the...

20 CFR 10.222 - When may an employer terminate COP which has already begun?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false When may an employer terminate COP which has...' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Controversion and Termination of Cop § 10.222 When may an employer terminate COP which has already begun? (a) Where the employer has continued the pay of the...

30 CFR 585.902 - What are the general requirements for decommissioning for facilities authorized under my SAP, COP...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... decommissioning for facilities authorized under my SAP, COP, or GAP? 585.902 Section 585.902 Mineral Resources..., Inspections, and Facility Assessments for Activities Conducted Under SAPs, COPs and GAPs Decommissioning... authorized under my SAP, COP, or GAP? (a) Except as otherwise authorized by BOEM under § 585.909, within 2...

30 CFR 585.902 - What are the general requirements for decommissioning for facilities authorized under my SAP, COP...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... decommissioning for facilities authorized under my SAP, COP, or GAP? 585.902 Section 585.902 Mineral Resources... authorized under my SAP, COP, or GAP? (a) Except as otherwise authorized by BOEM under § 585.909, within 2... decommissioning the facilities under your SAP, COP, or GAP, you must submit a decommissioning application and...

30 CFR 585.658 - Can my cable or pipeline construction deviate from my approved COP or GAP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... from my approved COP or GAP? 585.658 Section 585.658 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY... Can my cable or pipeline construction deviate from my approved COP or GAP? (a) You must make every... COP or GAP. (c) If, after construction, it is determined that a deviation from the approved plan has...

Communicating Knowing through Communities of Practice: Exploring Internal Communicative Processes and Differences among CoPs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Iverson, Joel O.; McPhee, Robert D.

2008-01-01

Knowing is an enacted, communicated process that is difficult to observe, let alone manage, in organizations. Communities of practice (CoPs) offer a productive solution for improving knowledge and knowledge management, but the communicative processes that enact CoPs have not been explored, leaving CoPs as an organizational black box. This research…

20 CFR 10.222 - When may an employer terminate COP which has already begun?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false When may an employer terminate COP which has...' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Controversion and Termination of Cop § 10.222 When may an employer terminate COP which has already begun? (a) Where the employer has continued the pay of the...

20 CFR 10.206 - May an employee who uses leave after an injury later decide to use COP instead?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... later decide to use COP instead? 10.206 Section 10.206 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF WORKERS... THE FEDERAL EMPLOYEES' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Eligibility for Cop § 10.206 May an employee who uses leave after an injury later decide to use COP instead? On Form CA-1, an...

20 CFR 10.206 - May an employee who uses leave after an injury later decide to use COP instead?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... later decide to use COP instead? 10.206 Section 10.206 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF WORKERS... THE FEDERAL EMPLOYEES' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Eligibility for Cop § 10.206 May an employee who uses leave after an injury later decide to use COP instead? On Form CA-1, an...

20 CFR 10.222 - When may an employer terminate COP which has already begun?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2013-04-01 2012-04-01 true When may an employer terminate COP which has...' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Controversion and Termination of Cop § 10.222 When may an employer terminate COP which has already begun? (a) Where the employer has continued the pay of the...

30 CFR 585.658 - Can my cable or pipeline construction deviate from my approved COP or GAP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... from my approved COP or GAP? 585.658 Section 585.658 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY... Can my cable or pipeline construction deviate from my approved COP or GAP? (a) You must make every... COP or GAP. (c) If, after construction, it is determined that a deviation from the approved plan has...

30 CFR 585.658 - Can my cable or pipeline construction deviate from my approved COP or GAP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... from my approved COP or GAP? 585.658 Section 585.658 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY... Can my cable or pipeline construction deviate from my approved COP or GAP? (a) You must make every... COP or GAP. (c) If, after construction, it is determined that a deviation from the approved plan has...

30 CFR 285.902 - What are the general requirements for decommissioning for facilities authorized under my SAP, COP...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... decommissioning for facilities authorized under my SAP, COP, or GAP? 285.902 Section 285.902 Mineral Resources... SAP, COP, or GAP? (a) Except as otherwise authorized by MMS under § 285.909, within 2 years following... under your SAP, COP, or GAP, you must submit a decommissioning application and receive approval from the...

The Importance of CoP in Transforming New Learning Communities into Experienced Ones in EFL Classrooms

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nagao, Akiko

2017-01-01

Since the Communities of Practice (CoP) concept has been adopted in various learning environments, visualizing its development in English as a foreign language (EFL) classrooms is complicated. Thus, based on the CoP concept, this study investigates the changes in learners' degrees of participation and CoP elements in EFL writing/reading classes…

Preparation and characterization of aminoethyl hydroxypropyl starch modified with collagen peptide.

PubMed

Wen, Huigao; Hu, Jin; Ge, Hongyu; Zou, Shengqiong; Xiao, Yao; Li, Ya; Feng, Han; Fan, Lihong

2017-08-01

The preparation of aminoethyl hydroxypropyl starch collagen peptide (AEHPS-COP) was via an enzyme-catalyzed reaction between amino groups in aminoethyl hydroxypropyl starch (AEHPS) and γ-carboxamide groups in collagen peptide (COP) by using microbial transglutaminase (MTGase) as biocatalyst. As an intermediate reactant, AEHPS was synthesized from hydroxypropyl starch (HPS) and 2-chloroethylamine hydrochloride (CEH). The chemical structures of HPS, AEHPS and AEHPS-COP were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and 13 C nuclear magnetic resonance ( 13 C NMR). The reaction conditions that influenced the degree of substitution (DS) of AEHPS-COP were optimized, which included the reaction temperature, the reaction time, the mass ratio of collagen peptide to aminoethyl hydroxypropyl starch and the pH value. In addition, in vitro antioxidant activities of AEHPS-COP were evaluated through the scavenging activity of hydroxyl and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical. Furthermore, the methylthiazol tetrazolium (MTT) assay was applied to investigate the cell viability of AEHPS-COP. The results indicated that the AEHPS-COP exhibited better cell viability to L929 mouse fibroblast cells. Therefore, the AEHPS-COP showed a promising potential application in cosmetic, biomedical and pharmaceutical fields. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Efficiencies and coefficients of performance of heat engines, refrigerators, and heat pumps with friction: a universal limiting behavior.

PubMed

Bizarro, João P S; Rodrigues, Paulo

2012-11-01

For work-producing heat engines, or work-consuming refrigerators and heat pumps, the percentage decrease caused by friction in their efficiencies, or coefficients of performance (COP's), is approximately given by the ratio W(fric)/W between the work spent against friction forces and the work performed by, or delivered to, the working fluid. This universal scaling, which applies in the limit of small friction (W(fric)/W

Metal Resistance and Lithoautotrophy in the Extreme Thermoacidophile Metallosphaera sedula

PubMed Central

Maezato, Yukari; Johnson, Tyler; McCarthy, Samuel; Dana, Karl

2012-01-01

Archaea such as Metallosphaera sedula are thermophilic lithoautotrophs that occupy unusually acidic and metal-rich environments. These traits are thought to underlie their industrial importance for bioleaching of base and precious metals. In this study, a genetic approach was taken to investigate the specific relationship between metal resistance and lithoautotrophy during biotransformation of the primary copper ore, chalcopyrite (CuFeS2). In this study, a genetic system was developed for M. sedula to investigate parameters that limit bioleaching of chalcopyrite. The functional role of the M. sedula copRTA operon was demonstrated by cross-species complementation of a copper-sensitive Sulfolobus solfataricus copR mutant. Inactivation of the gene encoding the M. sedula copper efflux protein, copA, using targeted recombination compromised metal resistance and eliminated chalcopyrite bioleaching. In contrast, a spontaneous M. sedula mutant (CuR1) with elevated metal resistance transformed chalcopyrite at an accelerated rate without affecting chemoheterotrophic growth. Proteomic analysis of CuR1 identified pleiotropic changes, including altered abundance of transport proteins having AAA-ATPase motifs. Addition of the insoluble carbonate mineral witherite (BaCO3) further stimulated chalcopyrite lithotrophy, indicating that carbon was a limiting factor. Since both mineral types were actively colonized, enhanced metal leaching may arise from the cooperative exchange of energy and carbon between surface-adhered populations. Genetic approaches provide a new means of improving the efficiency of metal bioleaching by enhancing the mechanistic understanding of thermophilic lithoautotrophy. PMID:23065978

Control of axonal sprouting and dendrite branching by the Nrg-Ank complex at the neuron-glia interface.

PubMed

Yamamoto, Misato; Ueda, Ryu; Takahashi, Kuniaki; Saigo, Kaoru; Uemura, Tadashi

2006-08-22

Neurons are highly polarized cells with distinct subcellular compartments, including dendritic arbors and an axon. The proper function of the nervous system relies not only on correct targeting of axons, but also on development of neuronal-class-specific geometry of dendritic arbors [1-4]. To study the intercellular control of the shaping of dendritic trees in vivo, we searched for cell-surface proteins expressed by Drosophila dendritic arborization (da) neurons [5-7]. One of them was Neuroglian (Nrg), a member of the Ig superfamily ; Nrg and vertebrate L1-family molecules have been implicated in various aspects of neuronal wiring, such as axon guidance, axonal myelination, and synapse formation [9-12]. A subset of the da neurons in nrg mutant embryos exhibited deformed dendritic arbors and abnormal axonal sprouting. Our functional analysis in a cell-type-selective manner strongly suggested that those da neurons employed Nrg to interact with the peripheral glia for suppressing axonal sprouting and for forming second-order dendritic branches. At least for the former role, Nrg functioned in concert with the intracellular adaptor protein Ankyrin (Ank) [13]. Thus, the neuron-glia interaction that is mediated by Nrg, together with Ank under some situations, contributes to axonal and dendritic morphogenesis.

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm in an elderly woman.

PubMed

Foong, H B B; Chong, M; Taylor, E M; Carlson, J A; Petrella, T

2013-04-01

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (a.k.a. NK cell lymphoma, CD4+CD56+ haematodermic neoplasm) is a rare aggressive tumour that arises from plasmacytoid dendritic cell precursors. We report the first case from Malaysia of a 79-year-old Chinese woman who presented with purpuric plaques and nodules produced by pleomorphic CD4+, CD56+, CD68+, CD123+ and CD303+, but CD2APmononuclear cell infiltrates. Leukemic dissemination occurred and she succumbed to disease without treatment 4 weeks after diagnosis and 9 months after onset of cutaneous disease.

Validating and calibrating the Nintendo Wii balance board to derive reliable center of pressure measures.

PubMed

Leach, Julia M; Mancini, Martina; Peterka, Robert J; Hayes, Tamara L; Horak, Fay B

2014-09-29

The Nintendo Wii balance board (WBB) has generated significant interest in its application as a postural control measurement device in both the clinical and (basic, clinical, and rehabilitation) research domains. Although the WBB has been proposed as an alternative to the "gold standard" laboratory-grade force plate, additional research is necessary before the WBB can be considered a valid and reliable center of pressure (CoP) measurement device. In this study, we used the WBB and a laboratory-grade AMTI force plate (AFP) to simultaneously measure the CoP displacement of a controlled dynamic load, which has not been done before. A one-dimensional inverted pendulum was displaced at several different displacement angles and load heights to simulate a variety of postural sway amplitudes and frequencies (<1 Hz). Twelve WBBs were tested to address the issue of inter-device variability. There was a significant effect of sway amplitude, frequency, and direction on the WBB's CoP measurement error, with an increase in error as both sway amplitude and frequency increased and a significantly greater error in the mediolateral (ML) (compared to the anteroposterior (AP)) sway direction. There was no difference in error across the 12 WBB's, supporting low inter-device variability. A linear calibration procedure was then implemented to correct the WBB's CoP signals and reduce measurement error. There was a significant effect of calibration on the WBB's CoP signal accuracy, with a significant reduction in CoP measurement error (quantified by root-mean-squared error) from 2-6 mm (before calibration) to 0.5-2 mm (after calibration). WBB-based CoP signal calibration also significantly reduced the percent error in derived (time-domain) CoP sway measures, from -10.5% (before calibration) to -0.05% (after calibration) (percent errors averaged across all sway measures and in both sway directions). In this study, we characterized the WBB's CoP measurement error under controlled, dynamic conditions and implemented a linear calibration procedure for WBB CoP signals that is recommended to reduce CoP measurement error and provide more reliable estimates of time-domain CoP measures. Despite our promising results, additional work is necessary to understand how our findings translate to the clinical and rehabilitation research domains. Once the WBB's CoP measurement error is fully characterized in human postural sway (which differs from our simulated postural sway in both amplitude and frequency content), it may be used to measure CoP displacement in situations where lower accuracy and precision is acceptable.

Validating and Calibrating the Nintendo Wii Balance Board to Derive Reliable Center of Pressure Measures

PubMed Central

Leach, Julia M.; Mancini, Martina; Peterka, Robert J.; Hayes, Tamara L.; Horak, Fay B.

2014-01-01

The Nintendo Wii balance board (WBB) has generated significant interest in its application as a postural control measurement device in both the clinical and (basic, clinical, and rehabilitation) research domains. Although the WBB has been proposed as an alternative to the “gold standard” laboratory-grade force plate, additional research is necessary before the WBB can be considered a valid and reliable center of pressure (CoP) measurement device. In this study, we used the WBB and a laboratory-grade AMTI force plate (AFP) to simultaneously measure the CoP displacement of a controlled dynamic load, which has not been done before. A one-dimensional inverted pendulum was displaced at several different displacement angles and load heights to simulate a variety of postural sway amplitudes and frequencies (<1 Hz). Twelve WBBs were tested to address the issue of inter-device variability. There was a significant effect of sway amplitude, frequency, and direction on the WBB's CoP measurement error, with an increase in error as both sway amplitude and frequency increased and a significantly greater error in the mediolateral (ML) (compared to the anteroposterior (AP)) sway direction. There was no difference in error across the 12 WBB's, supporting low inter-device variability. A linear calibration procedure was then implemented to correct the WBB's CoP signals and reduce measurement error. There was a significant effect of calibration on the WBB's CoP signal accuracy, with a significant reduction in CoP measurement error (quantified by root-mean-squared error) from 2–6 mm (before calibration) to 0.5–2 mm (after calibration). WBB-based CoP signal calibration also significantly reduced the percent error in derived (time-domain) CoP sway measures, from −10.5% (before calibration) to −0.05% (after calibration) (percent errors averaged across all sway measures and in both sway directions). In this study, we characterized the WBB's CoP measurement error under controlled, dynamic conditions and implemented a linear calibration procedure for WBB CoP signals that is recommended to reduce CoP measurement error and provide more reliable estimates of time-domain CoP measures. Despite our promising results, additional work is necessary to understand how our findings translate to the clinical and rehabilitation research domains. Once the WBB's CoP measurement error is fully characterized in human postural sway (which differs from our simulated postural sway in both amplitude and frequency content), it may be used to measure CoP displacement in situations where lower accuracy and precision is acceptable. PMID:25268919

Recent insights into the implications of metabolism in plasmacytoid dendritic cell innate functions: Potential ways to control these functions.

PubMed

Saas, Philippe; Varin, Alexis; Perruche, Sylvain; Ceroi, Adam

2017-01-01

There are more and more data concerning the role of cellular metabolism in innate immune cells, such as macrophages or conventional dendritic cells. However, few data are available currently concerning plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDC), another type of innate immune cells. These cells are the main type I interferon (IFN) producing cells, but they also secrete other pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., tumor necrosis factor or interleukin [IL]-6) or immunomodulatory factors (e.g., IL-10 or transforming growth factor-β). Through these functions, PDC participate in antimicrobial responses or maintenance of immune tolerance, and have been implicated in the pathophysiology of several autoimmune diseases, as well as in tumor immune escape mechanisms. Recent data support the idea that the glycolytic pathway (or glycolysis), as well as lipid metabolism (including both cholesterol and fatty acid metabolism) may impact some innate immune functions of PDC or may be involved in these functions after Toll-like receptor (TLR) 7/9 triggering. The kinetics of glycolysis after TLR7/9 triggering may differ between human and murine PDC. In mouse PDC, metabolism changes promoted by TLR7/9 activation may depend on an autocrine/paracrine loop, implicating type I IFN and its receptor IFNAR. This could explain a delayed glycolysis in mouse PDC. Moreover, PDC functions can be modulated by the metabolism of cholesterol and fatty acids. This may occur via the production of lipid ligands that activate nuclear receptors (e.g., liver X receptor [LXR]) in PDC or through limiting intracellular cholesterol pool size (by statin or LXR agonist treatment) in these cells. Finally, lipid-activated nuclear receptors (i.e., LXR or peroxisome proliferator activated receptor) may also directly interact with pro-inflammatory transcription factors, such as NF-κB. Here, we discuss how glycolysis and lipid metabolism may modulate PDC functions and how this may be harnessed in pathological situations where PDC play a detrimental role.

Recent insights into the implications of metabolism in plasmacytoid dendritic cell innate functions: Potential ways to control these functions

PubMed Central

Saas, Philippe; Varin, Alexis; Perruche, Sylvain; Ceroi, Adam

2017-01-01

There are more and more data concerning the role of cellular metabolism in innate immune cells, such as macrophages or conventional dendritic cells. However, few data are available currently concerning plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDC), another type of innate immune cells. These cells are the main type I interferon (IFN) producing cells, but they also secrete other pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., tumor necrosis factor or interleukin [IL]-6) or immunomodulatory factors (e.g., IL-10 or transforming growth factor-β). Through these functions, PDC participate in antimicrobial responses or maintenance of immune tolerance, and have been implicated in the pathophysiology of several autoimmune diseases, as well as in tumor immune escape mechanisms. Recent data support the idea that the glycolytic pathway (or glycolysis), as well as lipid metabolism (including both cholesterol and fatty acid metabolism) may impact some innate immune functions of PDC or may be involved in these functions after Toll-like receptor (TLR) 7/9 triggering. The kinetics of glycolysis after TLR7/9 triggering may differ between human and murine PDC. In mouse PDC, metabolism changes promoted by TLR7/9 activation may depend on an autocrine/paracrine loop, implicating type I IFN and its receptor IFNAR. This could explain a delayed glycolysis in mouse PDC. Moreover, PDC functions can be modulated by the metabolism of cholesterol and fatty acids. This may occur via the production of lipid ligands that activate nuclear receptors (e.g., liver X receptor [LXR]) in PDC or through limiting intracellular cholesterol pool size (by statin or LXR agonist treatment) in these cells. Finally, lipid-activated nuclear receptors (i.e., LXR or peroxisome proliferator activated receptor) may also directly interact with pro-inflammatory transcription factors, such as NF-κB. Here, we discuss how glycolysis and lipid metabolism may modulate PDC functions and how this may be harnessed in pathological situations where PDC play a detrimental role. PMID:28580131

Characterizing within-subject variability in quantified measures of balance control: A cohort study.

PubMed

Worthen-Chaudhari, Lise C; Monfort, Scott M; Bland, Courtney; Pan, Xueliang; Chaudhari, Ajit M W

2018-06-02

To longitudinally assess individuals using quantified measures, we must characterize within-subject variability (WSV) of the measures. What is the natural within-subject variability (WSV) that can be expected in postural control over 3+ days? Thirteen individuals without orthopedic or neurologic impairment (mean(SD) = 55 (9) years; 76 (18) kg; 11 females/2 males) were recruited from a community workplace and consented to participate. Participants stood quietly with eyes closed (QEC) on a force platform (5 x 1 min x 6 days) in two stances: comfortable and narrow. We recorded center of pressure (COP) and calculated COP-based balance parameters. To analyze variance components, we applied a linear mixed model for repeated measures, calculating within-subject standard deviation (SDws) from the pooled variance not attributable to between-subject variability. To estimate WSV, we scaled SDws by a confidence interval (CI) factor (e.g. WSV at the 95%CI = WSV 95 = SDws * 1.96) and report WSV 95 for a range of conditions previously reported in the literature and the following measures previously found sensitive to or predictive of health: (primary) WSV 95 of root-mean square amplitude of medial-lateral COP during QEC (RMSml); (secondary) WSV 95 of COP ellipse area (COPa); (secondary) WSV 95 of mean medial-lateral COP velocity (COPvml) during QEC. WSV 95 was estimated at RMSml = 0.8 mm, COPa = 99mm 2 , and COPvml = 1.1 mm/s among healthy, middle-aged participants standing comfortably for one recommended data duration (4 × 30 s trials). A look up table provides values for alternate protocols that have been suggested in the literature and might prove relevant for clinical translation. This work advances longitudinal assessment of individuals using quantified measures of postural control. Results enable practitioners/researchers to assess an individual's progress, maintenance, or decline relative to WSV at a defined CI level. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

From atomistic interfaces to dendritic patterns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galenko, P. K.; Alexandrov, D. V.

2018-01-01

Transport processes around phase interfaces, together with thermodynamic properties and kinetic phenomena, control the formation of dendritic patterns. Using the thermodynamic and kinetic data of phase interfaces obtained on the atomic scale, one can analyse the formation of a single dendrite and the growth of a dendritic ensemble. This is the result of recent progress in theoretical methods and computational algorithms calculated using powerful computer clusters. Great benefits can be attained from the development of micro-, meso- and macro-levels of analysis when investigating the dynamics of interfaces, interpreting experimental data and designing the macrostructure of samples. The review and research articles in this theme issue cover the spectrum of scales (from nano- to macro-length scales) in order to exhibit recently developing trends in the theoretical analysis and computational modelling of dendrite pattern formation. Atomistic modelling, the flow effect on interface dynamics, the transition from diffusion-limited to thermally controlled growth existing at a considerable driving force, two-phase (mushy) layer formation, the growth of eutectic dendrites, the formation of a secondary dendritic network due to coalescence, computational methods, including boundary integral and phase-field methods, and experimental tests for theoretical models-all these themes are highlighted in the present issue. This article is part of the theme issue `From atomistic interfaces to dendritic patterns'.

Thermo-solutal and kinetic modes of stable dendritic growth with different symmetries of crystalline anisotropy in the presence of convection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alexandrov, Dmitri V.; Galenko, Peter K.; Toropova, Lyubov V.

2018-01-01

Motivated by important applications in materials science and geophysics, we consider the steady-state growth of anisotropic needle-like dendrites in undercooled binary mixtures with a forced convective flow. We analyse the stable mode of dendritic evolution in the case of small anisotropies of growth kinetics and surface energy for arbitrary Péclet numbers and n-fold symmetry of dendritic crystals. On the basis of solvability and stability theories, we formulate a selection criterion giving a stable combination between dendrite tip diameter and tip velocity. A set of nonlinear equations consisting of the solvability criterion and undercooling balance is solved analytically for the tip velocity V and tip diameter ρ of dendrites with n-fold symmetry in the absence of convective flow. The case of convective heat and mass transfer mechanisms in a binary mixture occurring as a result of intensive flows in the liquid phase is detailed. A selection criterion that describes such solidification conditions is derived. The theory under consideration comprises previously considered theoretical approaches and results as limiting cases. This article is part of the theme issue `From atomistic interfaces to dendritic patterns'. This article is part of the theme issue `From atomistic interfaces to dendritic patterns'.

20 CFR 10.206 - May an employee who uses leave after an injury later decide to use COP instead?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... injury later decide to use COP instead? 10.206 Section 10.206 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF WORKERS... THE FEDERAL EMPLOYEES' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Eligibility for Cop § 10.206 May an employee who uses leave after an injury later decide to use COP instead? On Form CA-1, an...

30 CFR 285.638 - What must I do upon completion of my commercial operations as approved in my COP or FERC license?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... operations as approved in my COP or FERC license? 285.638 Section 285.638 Mineral Resources MINERALS... FACILITIES ON THE OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF Plans and Information Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop § 285.638 What must I do upon completion of my commercial operations as approved in my COP or FERC...

20 CFR 10.206 - May an employee who uses leave after an injury later decide to use COP instead?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... injury later decide to use COP instead? 10.206 Section 10.206 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF WORKERS... THE FEDERAL EMPLOYEES' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Eligibility for Cop § 10.206 May an employee who uses leave after an injury later decide to use COP instead? On Form CA-1, an...

30 CFR 285.632 - What documents must I submit before I may construct and install facilities under my approved COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... construct and install facilities under my approved COP? 285.632 Section 285.632 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF... Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop § 285.632 What documents must I submit before I may construct and install facilities under my approved COP? (a) You must submit to MMS the documents listed in the following...

30 CFR 585.632 - What documents must I submit before I may construct and install facilities under my approved COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... construct and install facilities under my approved COP? 585.632 Section 585.632 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF... Approved Cop § 585.632 What documents must I submit before I may construct and install facilities under my approved COP? (a) You must submit to BOEM the documents listed in the following table: Document...

30 CFR 285.632 - What documents must I submit before I may construct and install facilities under my approved COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... construct and install facilities under my approved COP? 285.632 Section 285.632 Mineral Resources MINERALS... FACILITIES ON THE OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF Plans and Information Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop... COP? (a) You must submit to MMS the documents listed in the following table: ER29AP09.124 (b) You must...

30 CFR 585.632 - What documents must I submit before I may construct and install facilities under my approved COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... construct and install facilities under my approved COP? 585.632 Section 585.632 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF... Approved Cop § 585.632 What documents must I submit before I may construct and install facilities under my approved COP? (a) You must submit to BOEM the documents listed in the following table: Document...

30 CFR 285.700 - What reports must I submit to MMS before installing facilities described in my approved SAP, COP...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... installing facilities described in my approved SAP, COP, or GAP? 285.700 Section 285.700 Mineral Resources... described in my approved SAP, COP, or GAP? (a) You must submit the following reports to MMS before installing facilities described in your approved COP (§ 285.632(a)) and, when required by this part, your SAP...

30 CFR 585.632 - What documents must I submit before I may construct and install facilities under my approved COP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... construct and install facilities under my approved COP? 585.632 Section 585.632 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF... Approved Cop § 585.632 What documents must I submit before I may construct and install facilities under my approved COP? (a) You must submit to BOEM the documents listed in the following table: Document...

20 CFR 10.206 - May an employee who uses leave after an injury later decide to use COP instead?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... injury later decide to use COP instead? 10.206 Section 10.206 Employees' Benefits OFFICE OF WORKERS... THE FEDERAL EMPLOYEES' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Eligibility for Cop § 10.206 May an employee who uses leave after an injury later decide to use COP instead? On Form CA-1, an...

50 CFR 23.86 - How can I obtain information on a CoP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 50 Wildlife and Fisheries 6 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false How can I obtain information on a CoP? 23... FAUNA AND FLORA (CITES) CITES Administration § 23.86 How can I obtain information on a CoP? As we receive information on an upcoming CoP from the CITES Secretariat, we will notify the public either...

50 CFR 23.86 - How can I obtain information on a CoP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 50 Wildlife and Fisheries 8 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false How can I obtain information on a CoP? 23... FAUNA AND FLORA (CITES) CITES Administration § 23.86 How can I obtain information on a CoP? As we receive information on an upcoming CoP from the CITES Secretariat, we will notify the public either...

DHU1 negatively regulates UV-B signaling via its direct interaction with COP1 and RUP1.

PubMed

Kim, Sang-Hoon; Kim, Hani; Chung, Sunglan; Lee, Jae-Hoon

2017-09-16

Although DWD HYPERSENSITIVE TO UV-B 1 (DHU1) is reported to be a negative regulator in UV-B mediated cellular responses, its detailed role in UV-B signaling is still elusive. To further understand the action mechanism of DHU1 in UV-B response, physical and genetic interactions of DHU1 with various UV-B signaling components were investigated. Yeast two hybrid assay results suggested that DHU1 directly interacts with COP1 and RUP1, implying a functional connection with both COP1 and RUP1. In spite of the physical association between DHU1 and COP1, loss of DHU1 did not affect protein stability of COP1. Epistatic analysis showed that the functional loss of both DHU1 and UVR8 leads to alleviation of UV-B hypersensitivity displayed in dhu1-1. Moreover, phenotypic studies with dhu1-1 cop1-6 and dhu1-1 hy5-215 revealed that COP1 and HY5 are epistatic to DHU1, indicating that UV-B hypersensitivity of dhu1-1 requires both COP1 and HY5. In the case of dhu1-1 rup1-1, UV-B responsiveness was similar to that of both dhu1-1 and rup1-1, implying that DHU1 and RUP1 are required for each other's function. Collectively, these results show that the role of DHU1 as a negative regulator in UV-B response may be derived from its direct interaction with COP1 by sequestering COP1 from the active UVR8-COP1 complex, resulting in a decrease in the COP1 population that positively participates in UV-B signaling together with UVR8. Furthermore, this inhibitory role of DHU1 in UV-B signaling is likely to be functionally connected to RUP1. This study will serve as a platform to further understand more detailed action mechanism of DHU1 in UV-B response and DHU1-mediated core UV-B signaling in Arabidopsis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Crystal growth and fluid mechanics problems in directional solidification

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tanveer, Saleh; Baker, Gregory R.; Foster, Michael R.

1994-01-01

Broadly speaking, our efforts have been concentrated in two aspects of directional solidification: (A) a more complete theoretical understanding of convection effects in a Bridgman apparatus; and (B) a clear understanding of scalings of various features of dendritic crystal growth in the sensitive limit of small capillary effects. For studies that fall within class A, the principal objectives are as follows: (A1) Derive analytical formulas for segregation, interfacial shape and fluid velocities in mathematically amenable asymptotic limits. (A2) Numerically verify and extend asymptotic results to other ranges of parameter space with a view to a broader physical understanding of the general trends. With respect to studies that fall within class B, the principal objectives include answering the following questions about dendritic crystal growth: (B1) Are there unsteady dendrite solutions in 2-D to the completely nonlinear time evolving equations in the small surface tension limit with only a locally steady tip region with well defined tip radius and velocity? Is anisotropy in surface tension necessary for the existence of such solutions as it is for a true steady state needle crystal? How does the size of such a local region depend on capillary effects, anisotropy and undercooling? (B2) How do the different control parameters affect the nonlinear amplification of tip noise and dendritic side branch coarsening?

Effect of distal ulnar collateral ligament tear pattern on contact forces and valgus stability in the posteromedial compartment of the elbow.

PubMed

Hassan, Sheref E; Parks, Brent G; Douoguih, Wiemi A; Osbahr, Daryl C

2015-02-01

It is not known whether the pattern of ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tear affects elbow biomechanics. There will be a significant change in elbow biomechanics with 50% proximal but not 50% distal simulated rupture of the UCL. Controlled laboratory study. Pressure sensors in the posteromedial elbow joint of 25 male cadaveric elbows (average age, 54.9 years; range, 26-66 years) were used to measure contact area, pressure, and valgus torque at 90° and 30° of elbow flexion. Thirteen specimens were tested with the UCL intact, then with proximal-to-distal detachment of 50%, and then with proximal-to-distal detachment of 100% of the anterior band of the UCL from the ulnar attachment. This method was repeated in the remaining 12 specimens in a distal-to-proximal direction. With 50% proximal-to-distal detachment, contact area decreased significantly versus intact at 90° (91.3 ± 23.6 vs 112.2 ± 26.0 mm(2); P < .001) and 30° (69.3 ± 14.8 vs 83.1 ± 21.6 mm(2); P < .001) of elbow flexion; the center of pressure (COP) moved significantly proximally versus intact at 90° (3.8 ± 2.5 vs 5.4 ± 2.3 mm; P < .001) and 30° (5.9 ± 2.8 vs 7.4±1.9 mm; P < .001). With 50% distal-to-proximal UCL detachment versus intact, no significant change was observed in contact area, movement of the COP, or valgus laxity at either flexion position. With 100% proximal-to-distal and distal-to-proximal detachment, significant change in contact area, movement of the COP, and valgus laxity versus intact was found at 90° and 30° of elbow flexion (P < .05). No significant difference in contact pressure was observed in any test conditions. Significant change in contact area and proximal movement of the COP with 50% proximal UCL detachment and the lack of significant change with 50% distal UCL detachment suggest that the proximal half of the UCL ulnar footprint has a primary role in maintaining posteromedial elbow biomechanics. The findings suggest that surgical reconstruction should aim to reestablish at least the proximal 50% of the UCL ulnar footprint. © 2014 The Author(s).

Three-Dimensional Multiscale Modeling of Dendritic Spacing Selection During Al-Si Directional Solidification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tourret, Damien; Clarke, Amy J.; Imhoff, Seth D.; Gibbs, Paul J.; Gibbs, John W.; Karma, Alain

2015-08-01

We present a three-dimensional extension of the multiscale dendritic needle network (DNN) model. This approach enables quantitative simulations of the unsteady dynamics of complex hierarchical networks in spatially extended dendritic arrays. We apply the model to directional solidification of Al-9.8 wt.%Si alloy and directly compare the model predictions with measurements from experiments with in situ x-ray imaging. We focus on the dynamical selection of primary spacings over a range of growth velocities, and the influence of sample geometry on the selection of spacings. Simulation results show good agreement with experiments. The computationally efficient DNN model opens new avenues for investigating the dynamics of large dendritic arrays at scales relevant to solidification experiments and processes.

Local pruning of dendrites and spines by caspase-3-dependent and proteasome-limited mechanisms.

PubMed

Ertürk, Ali; Wang, Yuanyuan; Sheng, Morgan

2014-01-29

Synapse loss occurs normally during development and pathologically during neurodegenerative disease. Long-term depression, a proposed physiological correlate of synapse elimination, requires caspase-3 and the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis. Here, we show that caspase-3 activity is essential--and can act locally within neurons--for regulation of spine density and dendrite morphology. By photostimulation of Mito-KillerRed, we induced caspase-3 activity in defined dendritic regions of cultured neurons. Within the photostimulated region, local elimination of dendritic spines and dendrite retraction occurred in a caspase-3-dependent manner without inducing cell death. However, pharmacological inhibition of inhibitor of apoptosis proteins or proteasome function led to neuronal death, suggesting that caspase activation is spatially restricted by these "molecular brakes" on apoptosis. Caspase-3 knock-out mice have increased spine density and altered miniature EPSCs, confirming a physiological involvement of caspase-3 in the regulation of spines in vivo.

Diametral tensile strength and film thickness of an experimental dental luting agent derived from castor oil.

PubMed

Carmello, Juliana Cabrini; Fais, Laiza Maria Grassi; Ribeiro, Lígia Nunes de Moraes; Claro Neto, Salvador; Guaglianoni, Dalton Geraldo; Pinelli, Lígia Antunes Pereira

2012-02-01

The need to develop new dental luting agents in order to improve the success of treatments has greatly motivated research. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diametral tensile strength (DTS) and film thickness (FT) of an experimental dental luting agent derived from castor oil (COP) with or without addition of different quantities of filler (calcium carbonate - CaCO3). Eighty specimens were manufactured (DTS N=40; FT N=40) and divided into 4 groups: Pure COP; COP 10%; COP 50% and zinc phosphate (control). The cements were mixed according to the manufacturers' recommendations and submitted to the tests. The DTS test was performed in the MTS 810 testing machine (10 KN, 0.5 mm/min). For FT test, the cements were sandwiched between two glass plates (2 cm²) and a load of 15 kg was applied vertically on the top of the specimen for 10 min. The data were analyzed by means of one-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α=0.05). The values of DTS (MPa) were: Pure COP- 10.94 ± 1.30; COP 10%- 30.06 ± 0.64; COP 50%- 29.87 ± 0.27; zinc phosphate- 4.88 ± 0.96. The values of FT (µm) were: Pure COP- 31.09 ± 3.16; COP 10%- 17.05 ± 4.83; COP 50%- 13.03 ± 4.83; Zinc Phosphate- 20.00 ± 0.12. One-way ANOVA showed statistically significant differences among the groups (DTS - p=1.01E-40; FT - p=2.4E-10). The experimental dental luting agent with 50% of filler showed the best diametral tensile strength and film thickness.

Diametral tensile strength and film thickness of an experimental dental luting agent derived from castor oil

PubMed Central

CARMELLO, Juliana Cabrini; FAIS, Laiza Maria Grassi; RIBEIRO, Lígia Nunes de Moraes; CLARO NETO, Salvador; GUAGLIANONI, Dalton Geraldo; PINELLI, Lígia Antunes Pereira

2012-01-01

The need to develop new dental luting agents in order to improve the success of treatments has greatly motivated research. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the diametral tensile strength (DTS) and film thickness (FT) of an experimental dental luting agent derived from castor oil (COP) with or without addition of different quantities of filler (calcium carbonate - CaCO3). Material and Methods Eighty specimens were manufactured (DTS N=40; FT N=40) and divided into 4 groups: Pure COP; COP 10%; COP 50% and zinc phosphate (control). The cements were mixed according to the manufacturers' recommendations and submitted to the tests. The DTS test was performed in the MTS 810 testing machine (10 KN, 0.5 mm/min). For FT test, the cements were sandwiched between two glass plates (2 cm2) and a load of 15 kg was applied vertically on the top of the specimen for 10 min. The data were analyzed by means of one-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α=0.05). Results The values of DTS (MPa) were: Pure COP- 10.94±1.30; COP 10%- 30.06±0.64; COP 50%- 29.87±0.27; zinc phosphate- 4.88±0.96. The values of FT (µm) were: Pure COP- 31.09±3.16; COP 10%- 17.05±4.83; COP 50%- 13.03±4.83; Zinc Phosphate- 20.00±0.12. One-way ANOVA showed statistically significant differences among the groups (DTS - p=1.01E-40; FT - p=2.4E-10). Conclusion The experimental dental luting agent with 50% of filler showed the best diametral tensile strength and film thickness. PMID:22437672

Rothmund-Thomson syndrome and osteoma cutis in a patient previously diagnosed as COPS syndrome.

PubMed

van Rij, M C; Grijsen, M L; Appelman-Dijkstra, N M; Hansson, K B M; Ruivenkamp, C A L; Mulder, K; van Doorn, R; Oranje, A P; Kant, S G

2017-02-01

We present a patient with poikiloderma, severe osteoporosis and a mild intellectual disability. At the age of 9 years, this patient was proposed to suffer from a novel disease entity designated as calcinosis cutis, osteoma cutis, poikiloderma and skeletal abnormalities (COPS) syndrome. At the age of 35, he was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma. Recently, biallelic pathogenic variants in the RECQL4 gene were detected (c.1048_1049delAG and c.1391-1G>A), confirming a diagnosis of Rothmund-Thomson syndrome (RTS). In the brother of this patient, who had a milder phenotype, a similar diagnosis was made. We conclude that COPS syndrome never existed as a separate syndrome entity. Instead, osteoma cutis may be regarded as a novel feature of RTS, whereas mild intellectual disability and lymphoma may be underreported parts of the phenotype. What is new: • Osteoma cutis was not a known feature in Rothmund-Thomson patients. • Intellectual disability may be considered a rare feature in RTS; more study is needed. What is known: • RTS is a well-described syndrome caused by mutations in the RECQL4 gene. • Patients with RTS frequently show chromosomal abnormalities like, e.g. mosaic trisomy 8.

A comparison of ballet dancers with different level of experience in performing single-leg stance on retiré position.

PubMed

Lin, Chia-Wei; Lin, Cheng-Feng; Hsue, Bih-Jen; Su, Fong-Chin

2014-04-01

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the postural stability of single-leg standing on the retiré position in ballet dancers having three different levels of skill. Nine superior experienced female ballet dancers, 9 experienced, and 12 novice dancers performed single-leg standing in the retiré position. The parameters of center of pressure (COP) in the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral directions and the maximum distance between COP and the center of mass (COM) were measured. The inclination angles of body segments (head, torso, and supporting leg) in the frontal plane were also calculated. The findings showed that the novice dancers had a trend of greater torso inclination angles than the experienced dancers but that the superior experienced dancers had greater maximum COM-COP distance in the anterior-posterior direction. Furthermore, both experienced and novice dancers had better balance when standing on the nondominant leg, whereas the superior experienced dancers had similar postural stability between legs. Based on the findings, ballet training should put equal focus on both legs and frontal plane control (medial-lateral direction) should be integrated to ballet training program.

Fabrication of divertor mock-up with ODS-Cu and W by the improved brazing technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tokitani, M.; Hamaji, Y.; Hiraoka, Y.; Masuzaki, S.; Tamura, H.; Noto, H.; Tanaka, T.; Muroga, T.; Sagara, A.; FFHR Design Group

2017-07-01

Copper alloy has been considered as a divertor cooling tube or heat sink not only in the helical reactor FFHR-d1 but also in the tokamak DEMO reactor, because it has a high thermal conductivity. This work focused on applying an oxide dispersion strengthened copper alloy (ODS-Cu), GlidCop® (Cu-0.3 wt%Al2O3) as the divertor heat sink material of FFHR-d1. This alloy has superior high temperature yield strength exceeding 300 MPa at room temperature even after annealing up to ~1000 °C. The change in material properties of Pure-Cu, GlidCop® and CuCrZr by neutron irradiation are summarized in this paper. A primary dose limit is the radiation-induced hardening/softening (~0.2 dpa/1-2 dpa) which has a temperature dependence. According to such an evaluation, the GlidCop® can be selected as the current best candidate material in the commercial base of the divertor heat sink, and its temperature should be maintained as close as possible to 300 °C during operation. Bonding between the W armour and the GlidCop® heat sink was successfully performed by using an improved brazing technique with BNi-6 (Ni-11%P) filler material. The bonding strength was measured by a three-point bending test and reached up to approximately 200 MPa. Surprisingly, several specimens showed an obvious yield point. This means that the BNi-6 brazing (bonding) layer caused relaxation of the applied stress. The small-scale divertor mock-up of the W/BNi-6/GlidCop® was successfully fabricated by using the improved brazing technique. The heat loading test was carried out by the electron beam device ACT2 in NIFS. The mock-up showed an excellent heat removal capability for use in the FFHR-d1 divertor.

Reproducibility and diagnostic performance of shear wave elastography in evaluating breast solid mass.

PubMed

Hong, Sun; Woo, Ok Hee; Shin, Hye Seon; Hwang, Soon-Young; Cho, Kyu Ran; Seo, Bo Kyoung

Shear wave elastography (SWE) was performed independently by two radiologists in 264 solid breast masses. The images were reviewed for color overlay pattern (COP) classification by the two radiologists, double blinded to any information. The interobserver agreement of the COP was almost perfect (κ=0.908) and high in E max (ICC=0.89). The AUC value of the COP (0.954) was significantly higher than that of E max (0.915) (p=0.002) but not significantly different from that of E max combined with COP (0.957) (p=0.098). The SWE color overlay pattern and E max of breast masses were highly reproducible. The COP had better diagnostic ability than E max , suggesting that COP may be a more reliable parameter for solid breast mass evaluation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

What's in a name? Tensions between formal and informal communities of practice among regional subspecialty cancer surgeons.

PubMed

Kitto, Simon C; Grant, Rachel E; Peller, Jennifer; Moulton, Carol-Anne; Gallinger, Steven

2018-03-01

In 2007 the Cancer Care Ontario Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic (HPB) Community of Practice was formed during the wake of provincial regionalization of HPB services in Ontario, Canada. Despite being conceptualized within the literature as an educational intervention, communities of practice (CoP) are increasingly being adopted in healthcare as quality improvement initiatives. A qualitative case study approach using in-depth interviews and document analysis was employed to gain insight into the perceptions and attitudes of the HPB surgeons in the CoP. This study demonstrates how an engineered formal or idealized structure of a CoP was created in tension with the natural CoPs that HPB surgeons identified with during and after their training. This tension contributed to the inactive and/or marginal participation by some of the surgeons in the CoP. The findings of this study represent a cautionary tale for such future engineering attempts in two distinct ways: (1) a CoP in surgery cannot simply be created by regulatory agencies, rather they need to be supported in a way to evolve naturally, and (2) when the concept of CoPs is co-opted by governing bodies, it does not necessarily capture the power and potential of situated learning. To ensure CoP sustainability and effectiveness, we suggest that both core and peripheral members need to be more directly involved at the inception of the COP in terms of design, organization, implementation and ongoing management.

Experimental heat and mass transfer of the separated and coupled rotating desiccant wheel and heat wheel

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

Enteria, Napoleon; Yoshino, Hiroshi; Mochida, Akashi

The experimental evaluation of the separated and coupled rotating desiccant wheel and heat wheel is reported. The study aims to investigate the performance of the desiccant wheel and of the heat wheel both when operated separately and jointly. The performance evaluation of the desiccant wheel is based on its moisture removal capacity (MRC), moisture removal regeneration (MRR), and moisture mass balance (MMB). In addition, the study used the total energy balance (TEB), sensible coefficient of performance (COP{sub Sensible}), latent coefficient of performance (COP{sub Latent}) and, total coefficient of performance (COP{sub Total}). The performance of the heat wheel is based onmore » its effectiveness. The COP{sub Sensible}, COP{sub Latent} and, COP{sub Total} are used in the performance evaluation of the coupled desiccant wheel and heat wheel. The general results of the study show that the MRC, MRR and MMB coupled with the TEB, COP{sub Latent}, COP{sub Sensible} and COP{sub Total} predict adequately the performance of the desiccant wheel. In addition, the coupled operation of the desiccant wheel and heat wheel, contributed to the reduction of the external thermal energy requirement for the regeneration of the desiccant wheel. This study can be applied in other researches seeking evaluation of the desiccant wheel, heat wheel, and their combined operation. Moreover, the data presented here are significant for the desiccant wheel benchmarking and for evaluation of the desiccant wheel models. (author)« less

Self-organized synthesis of silver dendritic nanostructures via an electroless metal deposition method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiu, T.; Wu, X. L.; Mei, Y. F.; Chu, P. K.; Siu, G. G.

2005-09-01

Unique silver dendritic nanostructures, with stems, branches, and leaves, were synthesized with self-organization via a simple electroless metal deposition method in a conventional autoclave containing aqueous HF and AgNO3 solution. Their growth mechanisms are discussed in detail on the basis of a self-assembled localized microscopic electrochemical cell model. A process of diffusion-limited aggregation is suggested for the formation of the silver dendritic nanostructures. This nanostructured material is of great potential to be building blocks for assembling mini-functional devices of the next generation.

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN): the cutaneous sanctuary.

PubMed

Pileri, A; Delfino, C; Grandi, V; Agostinelli, C; Pileri, S A; Pimpinelli, N

2012-12-01

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDNC) is a rare tumour, which stems from plasmacytoid dendritic cells. Although the aetiology is still unclear, in the last few years various reports suggested a potential role of chromosomal aberrations in the oncogenesis. The disease is currently enclosed among "acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and related precursor neoplasms" in the last WHO classification. BPDCN has an aggressive course, however, it has been suggested that an exclusive cutaneous involvement at presentation is related to a better clinical outcome. We review the literature about BPDCN, and we present a series of 11 cases, all characterised by disease limited to the skin at presentation. Furthermore, we examined all cases of the last 10 years stored in the database of the multidisciplinary study group on cutaneous lymphomas of the University of Florence. Basing on the clinical features, patient were classified into two groups: with a single-lesion or multiple eruptive-lesions presentation. The former were treated with radiotherapy (limited field, electron beam therapy). The latter were treated with different therapeutic options, depending on age and co-morbidities. All patients with a single lesion achieved complete response. Five of 6 patients with eruptive lesions achieved a clinical response (2 complete and 3 partial response). Notably, the progression free survival was higher in the single-lesion than in the eruptive-lesion group (23 vs. 9 months). However all patients relapsed and 8 of 11 died. Although the small number of selected patients, we could speculate that the concept of "cutaneous sanctuary" is particularly true in patients with a single lesion-presentation. In these patients, especially if >70 year-old aged, radiotherapy should be encouraged as the treatment of choice.

Interplay between presynaptic and postsynaptic activities is required for dendritic plasticity and synaptogenesis in the supraoptic nucleus.

PubMed

Chevaleyre, Vivien; Moos, Francoise C; Desarménien, Michel G

2002-01-01

Developing oxytocin and vasopressin (OT/AVP) supraoptic nucleus (SON) neurons positively autocontrol their electrical activity via dendritic release of their respective peptide. The effects of this autocontrol are maximum during the second postnatal week (PW2), when the dendritic arbor transiently increases and glutamatergic postsynaptic potentials appear. Here, we studied the role and interaction of dendritic OT/AVP release and glutamate release in dendritic plasticity and synaptogenesis in SON. In vivo treatment with the peptides antagonists or with an NMDA antagonist suppressed the transient increase in dendritic arbor of SON neurons at the beginning of PW2. Incubation of acute slices with these compounds decreased the dendritic arbor on a short time scale (3-8 hr) in slices of postnatal day 7 (P7) to P9 rats. Conversely, application of OT/AVP or NMDA increased dendritic branches in slices of P3-P6 rats. Their effects were inhibited by blockade of electrical activity, voltage-gated Ca2+ channels, or intracellular Ca2+ mobilization. They were also interdependent because both OT/AVP and NMDA (but not AMPA) receptor activation were required for increasing the dendritic arbor. Part of this interdependence probably results from a retrograde action of the peptides facilitating glutamate release. Finally, blocking OT/AVP receptors by in vivo treatment with the peptides antagonists during development decreased spontaneous glutamatergic synaptic activity recorded in young adults. These results show that an interplay between postsynaptic dendritic peptide release and presynaptic glutamate release is involved in the transient increase in dendritic arbor of SON neurons and indicate that OT/AVP are required for normal synaptogenesis of glutamatergic inputs in SON.

30 CFR 585.700 - What reports must I submit to BOEM before installing facilities described in my approved SAP, COP...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... installing facilities described in my approved SAP, COP, or GAP? 585.700 Section 585.700 Mineral Resources... approved SAP, COP, or GAP? (a) You must submit the following reports to BOEM before installing facilities described in your approved COP (§ 585.632(a)) and, when required by this part, your SAP (§ 585.614(b)) or...

20 CFR 10.217 - Is COP charged if the employee continues to work, but in a different job that pays less?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Is COP charged if the employee continues to... COMPENSATION UNDER THE FEDERAL EMPLOYEES' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Calculation of Cop § 10.217 Is COP charged if the employee continues to work, but in a different job that pays less? If...

30 CFR 585.638 - What must I do upon completion of my commercial operations as approved in my COP or FERC license?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... operations as approved in my COP or FERC license? 585.638 Section 585.638 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN... FACILITIES ON THE OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF Plans and Information Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop § 585.638 What must I do upon completion of my commercial operations as approved in my COP or FERC...

30 CFR 585.638 - What must I do upon completion of my commercial operations as approved in my COP or FERC license?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... operations as approved in my COP or FERC license? 585.638 Section 585.638 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN... FACILITIES ON THE OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF Plans and Information Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop § 585.638 What must I do upon completion of my commercial operations as approved in my COP or FERC...

20 CFR 10.217 - Is COP charged if the employee continues to work, but in a different job that pays less?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2014-04-01 2012-04-01 true Is COP charged if the employee continues to... COMPENSATION UNDER THE FEDERAL EMPLOYEES' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Calculation of Cop § 10.217 Is COP charged if the employee continues to work, but in a different job that pays less? If...

30 CFR 585.700 - What reports must I submit to BOEM before installing facilities described in my approved SAP, COP...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... installing facilities described in my approved SAP, COP, or GAP? 585.700 Section 585.700 Mineral Resources... approved SAP, COP, or GAP? (a) You must submit the following reports to BOEM before installing facilities described in your approved COP (§ 585.632(a)) and, when required by this part, your SAP (§ 585.614(b)) or...

20 CFR 10.217 - Is COP charged if the employee continues to work, but in a different job that pays less?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2013-04-01 2012-04-01 true Is COP charged if the employee continues to... COMPENSATION UNDER THE FEDERAL EMPLOYEES' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Calculation of Cop § 10.217 Is COP charged if the employee continues to work, but in a different job that pays less? If...

20 CFR 10.217 - Is COP charged if the employee continues to work, but in a different job that pays less?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Is COP charged if the employee continues to... COMPENSATION UNDER THE FEDERAL EMPLOYEES' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Calculation of Cop § 10.217 Is COP charged if the employee continues to work, but in a different job that pays less? If...

30 CFR 585.700 - What reports must I submit to BOEM before installing facilities described in my approved SAP, COP...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... installing facilities described in my approved SAP, COP, or GAP? 585.700 Section 585.700 Mineral Resources... approved SAP, COP, or GAP? (a) You must submit the following reports to BOEM before installing facilities described in your approved COP (§ 585.632(a)) and, when required by this part, your SAP (§ 585.614(b)) or...

30 CFR 585.638 - What must I do upon completion of my commercial operations as approved in my COP or FERC license?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... operations as approved in my COP or FERC license? 585.638 Section 585.638 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN... FACILITIES ON THE OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF Plans and Information Requirements Activities Under An Approved Cop § 585.638 What must I do upon completion of my commercial operations as approved in my COP or FERC...

20 CFR 10.217 - Is COP charged if the employee continues to work, but in a different job that pays less?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Is COP charged if the employee continues to... COMPENSATION UNDER THE FEDERAL EMPLOYEES' COMPENSATION ACT, AS AMENDED Continuation of Pay Calculation of Cop § 10.217 Is COP charged if the employee continues to work, but in a different job that pays less? If...

An assessment of antioxidant status in patients with carbon monoxide poisoning

PubMed Central

Zengin, Suat; A, Behcet; Karta, Sahin; Can, Basri; Orkmez, Mustafa; Taskin, Abdullah; Lok, Ugur; Gulen, Bediha; Yildirim, Cuma; Taysi, Seyithan

2014-01-01

BACKGROUND: Carbon monoxide poisoning (COP) is an important cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. This study was to investigate the levels of serum paraoxonase (PON), arylesterase (ARYL), ceruloplasmin (Cp), and sulfhydryl (-SH) in the treatment of COP, and to further understand the pathophysiology of COP. METHODS: This prospective study comprised 107 individuals with COP (group 1) and 50 healthy volunteers (group 2). Serum, plasma, and erythrocyte samples were taken on admission from all participants with COP. This process was repeated in the 90th and 180th minutes of treatment. Samples were taken from the control group only once. The levels of plasma PON, ARYL, Cp activity and -SH were measured in both groups. RESULTS: Age, gender, and carboxyhemoglobin level were not correlated with PON, ARYL, Cp, and -SH levels. PON, ARYL, and -SH levels were significantly decreased in group 1 compared with group 2. Conversely, Cp was significantly elevated in group 1 in contrast to group 2. Although ARYL was lower on admission in patients with COP than that was observed in the 90th and 180th minutes (P<0.001), Cp was higher on admission than at the other time points (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Participants with COP had decreased levels of antioxidants (PON, ARLY, and -SH). COP represses the antioxidant system. PMID:25215155

Inhibition of cholesterol oxidation products (COPs) formation in emulsified porcine patties by phenolic-rich avocado (Persea americana Mill.) extracts.

PubMed

Rodríguez-Carpena, Javier-Germán; Morcuende, David; Petrón, María Jesus; Estévez, Mario

2012-03-07

The effect of phenolic-rich extracts from avocado peel on the formation of cholesterol oxidation products (COPs) in porcine patties subjected to cooking and chill storage was studied. Eight COPs (7α-hydroxycholesterol, 7β-hydroxycholesterol, 7-ketocholesterol, 20α-hydroxycholesterol, 25-hydroxycholesterol, cholestanetriol, 5,6β-epoxycholesterol, and 5,6α-epoxycholesterol) were identified and quantified by GC-MS. The addition of avocado extracts (∼600 GAE/kg patty) to patties significantly inhibited the formation of COPs during cooking. Cooked control (C) patties contained a larger variety and greater amounts of COPs than the avocado-treated (T) counterparts. COPs sharply increased in cooked patties during the subsequent chilled storage. This increase was significantly higher in C patties than in the T patties. Interestingly, the amount of COPs in cooked and chilled T patties was similar to those found in cooked C patties. The mechanisms implicated in cholesterol oxidation in a processed meat product, the protective effect of avocado phenolics, and the potential implication of lipid and protein oxidation are thoroughly described in the present paper.

Phenotypic Characterization of a copA Mutant of Neisseria gonorrhoeae Identifies a Link between Copper and Nitrosative Stress

PubMed Central

Djoko, Karrera Y.; Franiek, Jessica A.; Edwards, Jennifer L.; Falsetta, Megan L.; Kidd, Stephen P.; Potter, Adam J.; Chen, Nathan H.; Apicella, Michael A.; Jennings, Michael P.

2012-01-01

NGO0579 is annotated copA in the Neisseria gonorrhoeae chromosome, suggesting that it encodes a cation-transporting ATPase specific for copper ions. Compared to wild-type cells, a copA mutant was more sensitive to killing by copper ions but not to other transition metals. The mutant also accumulated a greater amount of copper, consistent with the predicted role of CopA as a copper efflux pump. The copA mutant showed a reduced ability to invade and survive within human cervical epithelial cells, although its ability to form a biofilm on the surface of these cells was not significantly different from that of the wild type. In the presence of copper, the copA mutant exhibited increased sensitivity to killing by nitrite or nitric oxide. Therefore, we concluded that copper ion efflux catalyzed by CopA is linked to the nitrosative stress defense system of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. These observations suggest that copper may exert its effects as an antibacterial agent in the innate immune system via an interaction with reactive nitrogen species. PMID:22184419

Response to excess copper in the hyperthermophile Sulfolobus solfataricus strain 98/2

PubMed Central

Villafane, Aramis; Voskoboynik, Yekaterina; Cuebas, Mariola; Ruhl, Ilona; Bini, Elisabetta

2009-01-01

Copper is an essential micronutrient, but toxic in excess. Sulfolobus solfataricus cells have the ability to adapt to fluctuations of copper levels in their external environment. To better understand the molecular mechanism behind the organismal response to copper, the expression of the cluster of genes copRTA, which encodes the copper-responsive transcriptional regulator CopR, the copper-binding protein CopT, and CopA, has been investigated and the whole operon has been shown to be cotranscribed at low levels from the copR promoter under all conditions, whereas increased transcription from the copTA promoter occurs in the presence of excess copper. Furthermore, the expression of the copper-transporting ATPase CopA over a 27-hour interval has been monitored by quantitative real-time RT-PCR and compared to the pattern of cellular copper accumulation, as determined in a parallel analysis by Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The results provide the basis for a model of the molecular mechanisms of copper homeostasis in Sulfolobus, which relies on copper efflux and sequestration. PMID:19427833

Rules for the recognition of dilysine retrieval motifs by coatomer

PubMed Central

Ma, Wenfu; Goldberg, Jonathan

2013-01-01

Cytoplasmic dilysine motifs on transmembrane proteins are captured by coatomer α-COP and β′-COP subunits and packaged into COPI-coated vesicles for Golgi-to-ER retrieval. Numerous ER/Golgi proteins contain K(x)Kxx motifs, but the rules for their recognition are unclear. We present crystal structures of α-COP and β′-COP bound to a series of naturally occurring retrieval motifs—encompassing KKxx, KxKxx and non-canonical RKxx and viral KxHxx sequences. Binding experiments show that α-COP and β′-COP have generally the same specificity for KKxx and KxKxx, but only β′-COP recognizes the RKxx signal. Dilysine motif recognition involves lysine side-chain interactions with two acidic patches. Surprisingly, however, KKxx and KxKxx motifs bind differently, with their lysine residues transposed at the binding patches. We derive rules for retrieval motif recognition from key structural features: the reversed binding modes, the recognition of the C-terminal carboxylate group which enforces lysine positional context, and the tolerance of the acidic patches for non-lysine residues. PMID:23481256

Interrelation between the Poisoning Severity Score, carboxyhaemoglobin levels and in-hospital clinical course of carbon monoxide poisoning.

PubMed

Cevik, A A; Unluoglu, I; Yanturali, S; Kalkan, S; Sahin, A

2006-12-01

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the relationship between the Poisoning Severity Score (PSS) and carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb) levels in patients with carbon monoxide poisoning (COP) using outcome as the measure. The study was designed as a retrospective chart review of patients with final diagnosis of COP. Correlation of PSS and COHb levels at presentation was evaluated with collected data. Majority of the cases were grade 1 (minor) PSS (134 cases, 73.6%) and 93.4% of these patients made a complete recovery. There were six deaths (mortality 3.3%) and six in-hospital major complications (IHMCs) (3.3%) (please specify whether the complications were in the patients who died). There is moderate correlation between PSS and outcome (p < 0.001, r = 0.493). Grade 3 (severe) PSS was significantly different from other grades for outcome (six mortalities and three IHMCs). Patients classified as grade 3 and patients who died had a significantly higher mean age (p < 0.05, 41.8 +/- 23.6 and p < 0.01, 60.1 +/- 20.3, respectively). Mean COHb level of grade 3 (33.2 +/- 13.9%) was significantly higher than that of other grades (p < 0.05). COHb levels according to outcome were not different (? within the patients in grade 3). Decreased level of consciousness, acidosis, tachycardia, high glucose and leucocyte levels showed significant relation with higher PSS, COHb level and adverse outcome. We conclude that the PSS is a reliable guide in COP. Value of the PSS in COP may be enhanced if additional factors and investigations are included.

Directional measures of postural sway as predictors of balance instability and accidental falls

PubMed Central

Janusz, Błaszczyk W.; Beck, Monika; Szczepańska, Justyna; Sadowska, Dorota; Bacik, Bogdan; Juras, Grzegorz

2016-01-01

Abstract Despite the obvious advantages and popularity of static posturography, universal standards for posturographic tests have not been developed thus far. Most of the center-of-foot pressure (COP) indices are strongly dependent on an individual experimental design, and are susceptible to distortions, which makes results of their analysis incomparable. In this research, we present a novel approach to the analysis of the COP trajectory based on the directional features of postural sway. Our novel output measures: the sway directional indices (DI) and sway vector (SV) were applied to assess the postural stability in the group of young able-bodied subjects. Towards this aim, the COP trajectories were recorded in 100 students standing still for 60 s, with eyes open (EO) and then, with eyes closed (EC). Each record was subdivided then into 20, 30 and 60 s samples. Interclass correlation coefficients were calculated from the samples. The controlled variables (visual conditions) uniquely affected the output measures, but only in case of proper signal pretreatment (low-pass filtering). In filtering below 6 Hz, the DI and SV provided a unique set of descriptors for postural control. Both sway measures were highly independent of the trial length and the sampling frequency, and were unaffected by the sampling noise. Directional indices of COP filtered at 6 Hz showed high to very high reliability, with ICC range of 0.7-0.9. Results of a single 60 s trial are sufficient to reach acceptable reliability for both DI and SV. In conclusion, the directional sway measures may be recommended as the primary standard in static posturography. PMID:28149395

Dynamic Parameters of Balance Which Correlate to Elderly Persons with a History of Falls

PubMed Central

Muir, Jesse W.; Kiel, Douglas P.; Hannan, Marian; Magaziner, Jay; Rubin, Clinton T.

2013-01-01

Poor balance in older persons contributes to a rise in fall risk and serious injury, yet no consensus has developed on which measures of postural sway can identify those at greatest risk of falling. Postural sway was measured in 161 elderly individuals (81.8y±7.4), 24 of which had at least one self-reported fall in the prior six months, and compared to sway measured in 37 young adults (34.9y±7.1). Center of pressure (COP) was measured during 4 minutes of quiet stance with eyes opened. In the elderly with fall history, all measures but one were worse than those taken from young adults (e.g., maximal COP velocity was 2.7× greater in fallers than young adults; p<0.05), while three measures of balance were significantly worse in fallers as compared to older persons with no recent fall history (COP Displacement, Short Term Diffusion Coefficient, and Critical Displacement). Variance of elderly subjects' COP measures from the young adult cohort were weighted to establish a balance score (“B-score”) algorithm designed to distinguish subjects with a fall history from those more sure on their feet. Relative to a young adult B-score of zero, elderly “non-fallers” had a B-score of 0.334, compared to 0.645 for those with a fall history (p<0.001). A weighted amalgam of postural sway elements may identify individuals at greatest risk of falling, allowing interventions to target those with greatest need of attention. PMID:23940592

Navy Network Dependability: Models, Metrics, and Tools

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

different COP servers. The COP Synchronization Tool (CST) is the preferred method of exchanging data between COP servers: A critical component of COP...ASW mission’s equipment strings. A major difference in results between the new model and the old one is that the new one is far less optimistic about...understand why perceptions about the dependability (e.g., availability) of networks from users’ (e.g., sailors) per- spectives sometimes differ from the

Dscam1-mediated self-avoidance counters netrin-dependent targeting of dendrites in Drosophila.

PubMed

Matthews, Benjamin J; Grueber, Wesley B

2011-09-13

Dendrites and axons show precise targeting and spacing patterns for proper reception and transmission of information in the nervous system. Self-avoidance promotes complete territory coverage and nonoverlapping spacing between processes from the same cell [1, 2]. Neurons that lack Drosophila Down syndrome cell adhesion molecule 1 (Dscam1) show aberrant overlap, fasciculation, and accumulation of dendrites and axons, demonstrating a role in self-recognition and repulsion leading to self-avoidance [3-11]. Fasciculation and accumulation of processes suggested that Dscam1 might promote process spacing by counterbalancing developmental signals that otherwise promote self-association [9, 12]. Here we show that Dscam1 functions to counter Drosophila sensory neuron dendritic targeting signals provided by secreted Netrin-B and Frazzled, a netrin receptor. Loss of Dscam1 function resulted in aberrant dendrite accumulation at a Netrin-B-expressing target, whereas concomitant loss of Frazzled prevented accumulation and caused severe deficits in dendritic territory coverage. Netrin misexpression was sufficient to induce ectopic dendritic targeting in a Frazzled-dependent manner, whereas Dscam1 was required to prevent ectopic accumulation, consistent with separable roles for these receptors. Our results suggest that Dscam1-mediated self-avoidance counters extrinsic signals that are required for normal dendritic patterning, but whose action would otherwise favor neurite accumulation. Counterbalancing roles for Dscam1 may be deployed in diverse contexts during neural circuit formation. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Dscam1-mediated self-avoidance counters Netrin-dependent targeting of dendrites in Drosophila

PubMed Central

Matthews, Benjamin J.; Grueber, Wesley B.

2011-01-01

SUMMARY Dendrites and axons show precise targeting and spacing patterns for proper reception and transmission of information in the nervous system. Self-avoidance promotes complete territory coverage and non-overlapping spacing between processes from the same cell [1, 2]. Neurons that lack Drosophila Down syndrome cell adhesion molecule 1 (Dscam1) show aberrant overlap, fasciculation, and accumulation of dendrites and axons, demonstrating a role in self-recognition and repulsion leading to self-avoidance [3–11]. Fasciculation and accumulation of processes suggested that Dscam1 might promote process spacing by counterbalancing developmental signals that otherwise promote self-association [9, 12]. Here we show that Dscam1 functions to counter sensory neuron dendritic targeting signals provided by secreted Netrin-B and Frazzled, a netrin receptor. Loss of Dscam1 function resulted in aberrant dendrite accumulation at a Netrin-B expressing target, whereas concomitant loss of Frazzled prevented accumulation and caused severe deficits in dendritic territory coverage. Netrin misexpression was sufficient to induce ectopic dendritic targeting in a Frazzled-dependent manner, whereas Dscam1 was required to prevent ectopic accumulation, consistent with separable roles for these receptors. Our results suggest that Dscam1-mediated self-avoidance counter extrinsic signals that are required for normal dendritic patterning, but whose action would otherwise favor neurite accumulation. Counterbalancing roles for Dscam1 may be deployed in diverse contexts during neural circuit formation. PMID:21871804

A Comparison between Growth Morphology of "Eutectic" Cells/Dendrites and Single-Phase Cells/Dendrites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tewari, S. N.; Raj, S. V.; Locci, I. E.

2003-01-01

Directionally solidified (DS) intermetallic and ceramic-based eutectic alloys with an in-situ composite microstructure containing finely distributed, long aspect ratio, fiber, or plate reinforcements are being seriously examined for several advanced aero-propulsion applications. In designing these alloys, additional solutes need to be added to the base eutectic composition in order to improve heir high-temperature strength, and provide for adequate toughness and resistance to environmental degradation. Solute addition, however, promotes instability at the planar liquid-solid interface resulting in the formation of two-phase eutectic "colonies." Because morphology of eutectic colonies is very similar to the single-phase cells and dendrites, the stability analysis of Mullins and Sekerka has been extended to describe their formation. Onset of their formation shows a good agreement with this approach; however, unlike the single-phase cells and dendrites, there is limited examination of their growth speed dependence of spacing, morphology, and spatial distribution. The purpose of this study is to compare the growth speed dependence of the morphology, spacing, and spatial distribution of eutectic cells and dendrites with that for the single-phase cells and dendrites.

“httk”: EPA’s Tool for High Throughput Toxicokinetics (CompTox CoP)

EPA Science Inventory

Thousands of chemicals have been pro?led by high-throughput screening programs such as ToxCast and Tox21; these chemicals are tested in part because most of them have limited or no data on hazard, exposure, or toxicokinetics. Toxicokinetic models aid in predicting tissue concentr...

Cycle performance testing of nonazeotropic mixtures of HFC-142A/HCFC-124 and HFC-32/HCFC-124 with enhanced surface heat exchangers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vineyard, E. A.; Conklin, J. C.; Brown, A. J.

In an effort to improve the efficiency of residential heat pumps using alternative refrigerants, two nonazeotropic refrigerant mixtures (NARM's) were tested over a range of heat exchanger capacities to determine their cooling mode performance at US Department of Energy (DOE) heat pump rating conditions of 82 F (27.8 C). The two mixtures, 30% HFC-32/70% HCFC-124 and 75% HFC-143a/25% HCFC-124, were selected on the basis of a previous study that screened refrigerant pairs using such factors as boiling point, stability, ozone depletion potential (ODP), and coefficient of performance (COP) to determine suitable candidates for residential heat pump performance. Three refrigerant-side heat transfer enhancements were tested to determine improvements to overall system performance. Comparisons were made on the basis of the COP as a function of capacity. The results for one of the heat exchanger combinations, a segmented evaporator and finned condenser, were quite promising. Improvements in COP, relative to that for HCFC-22, were from 9 to 17% for the 30% HFC-32/70% HCFC-124 mixture and from 5 to 9% for the 75% HFC-143a/25% HCFC-124 NARM. Another combination, a smooth tube evaporator with a perforated foil insert and finned condenser, had similar gains at low capacities but experienced decreased performance at the higher capacities. The final combination, a smooth tube evaporator with a perforated foil insert and smooth tube condenser with a bent tab insert resulted in poor performance.

Validity and reliability of the Nintendo Wii Balance Board to assess standing balance and sensory integration in highly functional older adults.

PubMed

Scaglioni-Solano, Pietro; Aragón-Vargas, Luis F

2014-06-01

Standing balance is an important motor task. Postural instability associated with age typically arises from deterioration of peripheral sensory systems. The modified Clinical Test of Sensory Integration for Balance and the Tandem test have been used to screen for balance. Timed tests present some limitations, whereas quantification of the motions of the center of pressure (CoP) with portable and inexpensive equipment may help to improve the sensitivity of these tests and give the possibility of widespread use. This study determines the validity and reliability of the Wii Balance Board (Wii BB) to quantify CoP motions during the mentioned tests. Thirty-seven older adults completed three repetitions of five balance conditions: eyes open, eyes closed, eyes open on a compliant surface, eyes closed on a compliant surface, and tandem stance, all performed on a force plate and a Wii BB simultaneously. Twenty participants repeated the trials for reliability purposes. CoP displacement was the main outcome measure. Regression analysis indicated that the Wii BB has excellent concurrent validity, and Bland-Altman plots showed good agreement between devices with small mean differences and no relationship between the difference and the mean. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) indicated modest-to-excellent test-retest reliability (ICC=0.64-0.85). Standard error of measurement and minimal detectable change were similar for both devices, except the 'eyes closed' condition, with greater standard error of measurement for the Wii BB. In conclusion, the Wii BB is shown to be a valid and reliable method to quantify CoP displacement in older adults.

A test of the universal applicability of a commonly used principle of hoof balance.

PubMed

Caldwell, M N; Allan, L A; Pinchbeck, G L; Clegg, P D; Kissick, K E; Milner, P I

2016-01-01

This study used a UK trimming protocol to determine whether hoof balance is achieved (as defined by equivalence of geometric proportions) in cadaver limbs (n = 49) and two cohorts of horses (shod, n = 6, and unshod, n = 20; three trimming cycles). To determine equivalence, dorsal hoof wall length (DHWL), distance from the heel buttress to the centre of pressure (HBUT-COP) and distance from dorsal toe to centre of rotation (DT-COR) were calculated as a proportion of bearing border length (BBL) using digital photography. Geometric proportions were tested using Fieller's test of equivalence with limits of difference of 2.8%. In 22 cadaver limbs the location of external COR and COP was also mapped radiographically to the extensor process of the third phalanx and the centre of rotation of the distal interphalangeal joint. Equivalence of geometric proportions was not present following trimming in cadaver limbs or in the two cohorts. Although the dorsal hoof wall to heel wall ratio improved in cadaver and unshod horses after trimming, dorsal hoof wall and lateral heel parallelism was absent in all groups and COP was not consistently in line with the extensor process. Increased COP-COR distance occurred in shod horses and may relate to solar arch flattening. Palmar heel migration, however, occurred more in unshod horses. The study shows that equivalence of geometric proportions as a measure of static hoof balance was not commonly present and widely published measures and ratios of hoof balance rarely occurred in this sample population of horses. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fractal dimension approach in postural control of subjects with Prader-Willi Syndrome

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Static posturography is user-friendly technique suitable for the study of the centre of pressure (CoP) trajectory. However, the utility of static posturography in clinical practice is somehow limited and there is a need for reliable approaches to extract physiologically meaningful information from stabilograms. The aim of this study was to quantify the postural strategy of Prader-Willi patients with the fractal dimension technique in addition to the CoP trajectory analysis in time and frequency domain. Methods 11 adult patients affected by Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) and 20 age-matched individuals (Control group: CG) were included in this study. Postural acquisitions were conducted by means of a force platform and the participants were required to stand barefoot on the platform with eyes open and heels at standardized distance and position for 30 seconds. Platform data were analysed in time and frequency domain. Fractal Dimension (FD) was also computed. Results The analysis of CoP vs. time showed that in PWS participants all the parameters were statistically different from CG, with greater displacements along both the antero-posterior and medio-lateral direction and longer CoP tracks. As for frequency analysis, our data showed no significant differences between PWS and CG. FD evidenced that PWS individuals were characterized by greater value in comparison with CG. Conclusions Our data showed that while the analysis in the frequency domain did not seem to explain the postural deficit in PWS, the FD method appears to provide a more informative description of it and to complement and integrate the time domain analysis. PMID:21854639

Quantifying center of pressure variability in chondrodystrophoid dogs.

PubMed

Blau, S R; Davis, L M; Gorney, A M; Dohse, C S; Williams, K D; Lim, J-H; Pfitzner, W G; Laber, E; Sawicki, G S; Olby, N J

2017-08-01

The center of pressure (COP) position reflects a combination of proprioceptive, motor and mechanical function. As such, it can be used to quantify and characterize neurologic dysfunction. The aim of this study was to describe and quantify the movement of COP and its variability in healthy chondrodystrophoid dogs while walking to provide a baseline for comparison to dogs with spinal cord injury due to acute intervertebral disc herniations. Fifteen healthy adult chondrodystrophoid dogs were walked on an instrumented treadmill that recorded the location of each dog's COP as it walked. Center of pressure (COP) was referenced from an anatomical marker on the dogs' back. The root mean squared (RMS) values of changes in COP location in the sagittal (y) and horizontal (x) directions were calculated to determine the range of COP variability. Three dogs would not walk on the treadmill. One dog was too small to collect interpretable data. From the remaining 11 dogs, 206 trials were analyzed. Mean RMS for change in COPx per trial was 0.0138 (standard deviation, SD 0.0047) and for COPy was 0.0185 (SD 0.0071). Walking speed but not limb length had a significant effect on COP RMS. Repeat measurements in six dogs had high test retest consistency in the x and fair consistency in the y direction. In conclusion, COP variability can be measured consistently in dogs, and a range of COP variability for normal chondrodystrophoid dogs has been determined to provide a baseline for future studies on dogs with spinal cord injury. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Three-dimensional multiscale modeling of dendritic spacing selection during Al-Si directional solidification

DOE PAGES

Tourret, Damien; Clarke, Amy J.; Imhoff, Seth D.; ...

2015-05-27

We present a three-dimensional extension of the multiscale dendritic needle network (DNN) model. This approach enables quantitative simulations of the unsteady dynamics of complex hierarchical networks in spatially extended dendritic arrays. We apply the model to directional solidification of Al-9.8 wt.%Si alloy and directly compare the model predictions with measurements from experiments with in situ x-ray imaging. The focus is on the dynamical selection of primary spacings over a range of growth velocities, and the influence of sample geometry on the selection of spacings. Simulation results show good agreement with experiments. The computationally efficient DNN model opens new avenues formore » investigating the dynamics of large dendritic arrays at scales relevant to solidification experiments and processes.« less

Rapid time course of action potentials in spines and remote dendrites of mouse visual cortex neurons.

PubMed

Holthoff, Knut; Zecevic, Dejan; Konnerth, Arthur

2010-04-01

Axonally initiated action potentials back-propagate into spiny dendrites of central mammalian neurons and thereby regulate plasticity at excitatory synapses on individual spines as well as linear and supralinear integration of synaptic inputs along dendritic branches. Thus, the electrical behaviour of individual dendritic spines and terminal dendritic branches is critical for the integrative function of nerve cells. The actual dynamics of action potentials in spines and terminal branches, however, are not entirely clear, mostly because electrode recording from such small structures is not feasible. Additionally, the available membrane potential imaging techniques are limited in their sensitivity and require substantial signal averaging for the detection of electrical events at the spatial scale of individual spines. We made a critical improvement in the voltage-sensitive dye imaging technique to achieve multisite recordings of backpropagating action potentials from individual dendritic spines at a high frame rate. With this approach, we obtained direct evidence that in layer 5 pyramidal neurons from the visual cortex of juvenile mice, the rapid time course of somatic action potentials is preserved throughout all cellular compartments, including dendritic spines and terminal branches of basal and apical dendrites. The rapid time course of the action potential in spines may be a critical determinant for the precise regulation of spike timing-dependent synaptic plasticity within a narrow time window.

Development of a copula-based particle filter (CopPF) approach for hydrologic data assimilation under consideration of parameter interdependence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fan, Y. R.; Huang, G. H.; Baetz, B. W.; Li, Y. P.; Huang, K.

2017-06-01

In this study, a copula-based particle filter (CopPF) approach was developed for sequential hydrological data assimilation by considering parameter correlation structures. In CopPF, multivariate copulas are proposed to reflect parameter interdependence before the resampling procedure with new particles then being sampled from the obtained copulas. Such a process can overcome both particle degeneration and sample impoverishment. The applicability of CopPF is illustrated with three case studies using a two-parameter simplified model and two conceptual hydrologic models. The results for the simplified model indicate that model parameters are highly correlated in the data assimilation process, suggesting a demand for full description of their dependence structure. Synthetic experiments on hydrologic data assimilation indicate that CopPF can rejuvenate particle evolution in large spaces and thus achieve good performances with low sample size scenarios. The applicability of CopPF is further illustrated through two real-case studies. It is shown that, compared with traditional particle filter (PF) and particle Markov chain Monte Carlo (PMCMC) approaches, the proposed method can provide more accurate results for both deterministic and probabilistic prediction with a sample size of 100. Furthermore, the sample size would not significantly influence the performance of CopPF. Also, the copula resampling approach dominates parameter evolution in CopPF, with more than 50% of particles sampled by copulas in most sample size scenarios.

Molecular Characterization of Copper and Cadmium Resistance Determinants in the Biomining Thermoacidophilic Archaeon Sulfolobus metallicus

PubMed Central

Orell, Alvaro; Remonsellez, Francisco; Arancibia, Rafaela; Jerez, Carlos A.

2013-01-01

Sulfolobus metallicus is a thermoacidophilic crenarchaeon used in high-temperature bioleaching processes that is able to grow under stressing conditions such as high concentrations of heavy metals. Nevertheless, the genetic and biochemical mechanisms responsible for heavy metal resistance in S. metallicus remain uncharacterized. Proteomic analysis of S. metallicus cells exposed to 100 mM Cu revealed that 18 out of 30 upregulated proteins are related to the production and conversion of energy, amino acids biosynthesis, and stress responses. Ten of these last proteins were also up-regulated in S. metallicus treated in the presence of 1 mM Cd suggesting that at least in part, a common general response to these two heavy metals. The S. metallicus genome contained two complete cop gene clusters, each encoding a metallochaperone (CopM), a Cu-exporting ATPase (CopA), and a transcriptional regulator (CopT). Transcriptional expression analysis revealed that copM and copA from each cop gene cluster were cotranscribed and their transcript levels increased when S. metallicus was grown either in the presence of Cu or using chalcopyrite (CuFeS2) as oxidizable substrate. This study shows for the first time the presence of a duplicated version of the cop gene cluster in Archaea and characterizes some of the Cu and Cd resistance determinants in a thermophilic archaeon employed for industrial biomining. PMID:23509422

Molecular characterization of copper and cadmium resistance determinants in the biomining thermoacidophilic archaeon Sulfolobus metallicus.

PubMed

Orell, Alvaro; Remonsellez, Francisco; Arancibia, Rafaela; Jerez, Carlos A

2013-01-01

Sulfolobus metallicus is a thermoacidophilic crenarchaeon used in high-temperature bioleaching processes that is able to grow under stressing conditions such as high concentrations of heavy metals. Nevertheless, the genetic and biochemical mechanisms responsible for heavy metal resistance in S. metallicus remain uncharacterized. Proteomic analysis of S. metallicus cells exposed to 100 mM Cu revealed that 18 out of 30 upregulated proteins are related to the production and conversion of energy, amino acids biosynthesis, and stress responses. Ten of these last proteins were also up-regulated in S. metallicus treated in the presence of 1 mM Cd suggesting that at least in part, a common general response to these two heavy metals. The S. metallicus genome contained two complete cop gene clusters, each encoding a metallochaperone (CopM), a Cu-exporting ATPase (CopA), and a transcriptional regulator (CopT). Transcriptional expression analysis revealed that copM and copA from each cop gene cluster were cotranscribed and their transcript levels increased when S. metallicus was grown either in the presence of Cu or using chalcopyrite (CuFeS2) as oxidizable substrate. This study shows for the first time the presence of a duplicated version of the cop gene cluster in Archaea and characterizes some of the Cu and Cd resistance determinants in a thermophilic archaeon employed for industrial biomining.

Statistical analysis of dust signals observed by ROSINA/COPS onboard of the Rosetta spacecraft at comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tzou, Chia-Yu; altwegg, kathrin; Bieler, Andre; Calmonte, Ursina; Gasc, Sébastien; Le Roy, Léna; Rubin, Martin

2016-10-01

ROSINA is the in situ Rosetta Orbiter Spectrometer for Ion and Neutral Analysis on board of Rosetta, one of the corner stone missions of the European Space Agency (ESA) to land and orbit the Jupiter family comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko (67P). ROSINA consists of two mass spectrometers and a pressure sensor. The Reflectron Time of Flight Spectrometer (RTOF) and the Double Focusing Mass Spectrometer (DFMS) complement each other in mass and time resolution.The Comet Pressure Sensor (COPS) provides density measurements of the neutral molecules in the cometary coma of 67P. COPS has two gauges, a nude gauge that measures the total neutral density and a ram gauge that measures the dynamic pressure from the comet. Combining the two COPS is also capable of providing gas dynamic information such as gas velocity and gas temperature of the coma.While Rosetta started orbiting around 67P in August 2014, COPS observed diurnal and seasonal variations of the neutral gas density in the coma. Surprisingly, additional to these major density variation patterns, COPS occasionally observed small spikes in the density that are associated with dust. These dust signals can be interpreted as a result of cometary dust releasing volatiles while heated up near COPS. A statistical analysis of dust signals detected by COPS will be presented.

Augmented feedback of COM and COP modulates the regulation of quiet human standing relative to the stability boundary.

PubMed

Kilby, Melissa C; Slobounov, Semyon M; Newell, Karl M

2016-06-01

The experiment manipulated real-time kinematic feedback of the motion of the whole body center of mass (COM) and center of pressure (COP) in anterior-posterior (AP) and medial-lateral (ML) directions to investigate the variables actively controlled in quiet standing of young adults. The feedback reflected the current 2D postural positions within the 2D functional stability boundary that was scaled to 75%, 30% and 12% of its original size. The findings showed that the distance of both COP and COM to the respective stability boundary was greater during the feedback trials compared to a no feedback condition. However, the temporal safety margin of the COP, that is, the virtual time-to-contact (VTC), was higher without feedback. The coupling relation of COP-COM showed stable in-phase synchronization over all of the feedback conditions for frequencies below 1Hz. For higher frequencies (up to 5Hz), there was progressive reduction of COP-COM synchronization and local adaptation under the presence of augmented feedback. The findings show that the augmented feedback of COM and COP motion differentially and adaptively influences spatial and temporal properties of postural motion relative to the stability boundary while preserving the organization of the COM-COP coupling in postural control. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Sex-Specific Genetic Loci for Femoral Neck Bone Mass and Strength Identified in Inbred COP and DA Rats

PubMed Central

Alam, Imranul; Sun, Qiwei; Liu, Lixiang; Koller, Daniel L; Carr, Lucinda G; Econs, Michael J; Foroud, Tatiana; Turner, Charles H

2008-01-01

Introduction Hip fracture is the most devastating osteoporotic fracture type with significant morbidity and mortality. Several studies in humans identified chromosomal regions linked to hip size and bone mass. Animal models, particularly the inbred rat, serve as complementary approaches for studying the genetic influence on hip fragility. The purpose of this study is to identify sex-independent and sex-specific quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for femoral neck density, structure, and strength in inbred Copenhagen 2331 (COP) and Dark Agouti (DA) rats. Materials and Methods A total of 828 (405 males and 423 females) F2 progeny derived from the inbred COP and DA strains of rats were phenotyped for femoral neck volumetric BMD (vBMD), cross-sectional area, polar moment of inertia (Ip), neck width, ultimate force, and energy to break. A whole genome screen was performed using 93 microsatellite markers with an average intermarker distance of 20 cM. Recombination-based marker maps were generated using MAPMAKER/EXP from the COP × DA F2 data and compared with published Rat Genome Database (RGD) maps. These maps were used for genome-wide linkage analyses to detect sex-independent and sex-specific QTLs. Results Significant evidence of linkage (p < 0.01) for sex-independent QTLs were detected for (1) femoral neck vBMD on chromosomes (Chrs) 1, 6, 10, and 12, (2) femoral neck structure on Chrs 5, 7, 10, and 18, and (3) biomechanical properties on Chrs 1 and 4. Male-specific QTLs were discovered on Chrs 2, 9, and 18 for total vBMD, on Chr 17 for trabecular vBMD, on Chr 9 for total bone area, and on Chr 15 for ultimate force. A female-specific QTL was discovered on Chr 2 for ultimate force. The effect size of the individual QTL varied between 1% and 4%. Conclusions We detected evidence that sex-independent and sex-specific QTLs contribute to hip fragility in the inbred rat. Several QTLs regions identified in this study are homologous to human chromosomal regions previously linked to QTLs contributing to femoral neck and related phenotypes. PMID:18282130

30 CFR 585.811 - When must I follow my Safety Management System?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

..., COPs and GAPs Safety Management Systems § 585.811 When must I follow my Safety Management System? Your... COP, SAP, or GAP. You must conduct all activities described in your approved COP, SAP, or GAP in...

30 CFR 585.811 - When must I follow my Safety Management System?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

..., COPs and GAPs Safety Management Systems § 585.811 When must I follow my Safety Management System? Your... COP, SAP, or GAP. You must conduct all activities described in your approved COP, SAP, or GAP in...

30 CFR 585.811 - When must I follow my Safety Management System?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

..., COPs and GAPs Safety Management Systems § 585.811 When must I follow my Safety Management System? Your... COP, SAP, or GAP. You must conduct all activities described in your approved COP, SAP, or GAP in...

Dendritic protein synthesis in the normal and diseased brain

PubMed Central

Swanger, Sharon A.; Bassell, Gary J.

2015-01-01

Synaptic activity is a spatially-limited process that requires a precise, yet dynamic, complement of proteins within the synaptic micro-domain. The maintenance and regulation of these synaptic proteins is regulated, in part, by local mRNA translation in dendrites. Protein synthesis within the postsynaptic compartment allows neurons tight spatial and temporal control of synaptic protein expression, which is critical for proper functioning of synapses and neural circuits. In this review, we discuss the identity of proteins synthesized within dendrites, the receptor-mediated mechanisms regulating their synthesis, and the possible roles for these locally synthesized proteins. We also explore how our current understanding of dendritic protein synthesis in the hippocampus can be applied to new brain regions and to understanding the pathological mechanisms underlying varied neurological diseases. PMID:23262237

A role for tubular networks and a COP I-independent pathway in the mitotic fragmentation of Golgi stacks in a cell-free system

PubMed Central

1995-01-01

Golgi stacks were previously shown to be converted into tubular networks when incubated in mitotic cytosol depleted of the coatomer subunit of COP I coats (Misteli and Warren, 1994). Similar, though smaller, networks are now shown to be an early intermediate on the Golgi fragmentation pathway both in vitro and in vivo. Their appearance mirrors the disappearance of Golgi cisternae and at their peak they constitute 35% of total Golgi membrane. They are consumed by two pathways, the first involving the budding of COP I-coated vesicles described previously (Misteli and Warren, 1994). The second involves a COP I-independent mechanism that leads eventually to a vesicle fraction that is larger in size and more heterogeneous than that produced by the COP I-mechanism. We suggest that both pathways operate concurrently at the onset of mitotic fragmentation. The COP I-independent pathway converts cisternae into tubular networks that then fragment. The COP I- dependent pathway partially consumes first the cisternae at the beginning of the incubation and then the tubular networks that form from them. PMID:7657690

Dendritic-metasurface-based flexible broadband microwave absorbers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Mei; Weng, Bin; Zhao, Jing; Zhao, Xiaopeng

2017-06-01

Based on the dendritic metasurface model, a type of flexible and lightweight microwave absorber (MA) comprising resistance film array with dendritic slot (RFADS), dielectric material, and metal plate is proposed. A broadband absorptivity of >80% is obtained both from simulation and experiment at frequency ranges of 3.0-9.2 and 3.2-9.00 GHz, respectively. And the thickness of MA is 5 mm, which is only 0.05λ _{low}, or 0.15λ _ {high}, where the λ _{low} and the λ _{high} are the beginning and the end of the working frequency. By combining this metasurface-based MA with the dendritic-resistance-film-based microwave metasurface absorber (MMA), we designed a broadband MMA. The simulations and experiments showed that this kind of MMA can absorb the radiation effectively at a wide frequency range 4.5-17.5 GHz. And the thickness of this combined MMA is 4 mm. All the structures showed their insensitivity to the incident angle (0°-40°) and the polarization of the incident wave because of their structural symmetry. In addition, the small thickness, low apparent density, and flexibility made those structures possess the advantages of being applied in microwave stealth and radar cross-section (RCS) reduction.

High areal capacity hybrid magnesium-lithium-ion battery with 99.9% Coulombic efficiency for large-scale energy storage.

PubMed

Yoo, Hyun Deog; Liang, Yanliang; Li, Yifei; Yao, Yan

2015-04-01

Hybrid magnesium-lithium-ion batteries (MLIBs) featuring dendrite-free deposition of Mg anode and Li-intercalation cathode are safe alternatives to Li-ion batteries for large-scale energy storage. Here we report for the first time the excellent stability of a high areal capacity MLIB cell and dendrite-free deposition behavior of Mg under high current density (2 mA cm(-2)). The hybrid cell showed no capacity loss for 100 cycles with Coulombic efficiency as high as 99.9%, whereas the control cell with a Li-metal anode only retained 30% of its original capacity with Coulombic efficiency well below 90%. The use of TiS2 as a cathode enabled the highest specific capacity and one of the best rate performances among reported MLIBs. Postmortem analysis of the cycled cells revealed dendrite-free Mg deposition on a Mg anode surface, while mossy Li dendrites were observed covering the Li surface and penetrated into separators in the Li cell. The energy density of a MLIB could be further improved by developing electrolytes with higher salt concentration and wider electrochemical window, leading to new opportunities for its application in large-scale energy storage.

Relation between lowered colloid osmotic pressure, respiratory failure, and death.

PubMed

Tonnesen, A S; Gabel, J C; McLeavey, C A

1977-01-01

Plasma colloid osmotic pressure was measured each day in 84 intensive care unit patients. Probit analysis demonstrated a direct relationship between colloid osmotic pressure (COP) and survival. The COP associated with a 50% survival rate was 15.0 torr. COP was higher in survivors than in nonsurvivors without respiratory failure and in patients who recovered from respiratory failure. We conclude that lowered COP is associated with an elevated mortality rate. However, the relationship to death is not explained by the relationship to respiratory failure.

Effects of xylazine, romifidine, or detomidine on hematology, biochemistry, and splenic thickness in healthy horses.

PubMed

Kullmann, Annie; Sanz, Macarena; Fosgate, Geoffrey T; Saulez, Montague N; Page, Patrick C; Rioja, Eva

2014-04-01

Alpha-2 agonist-induced changes in packed cell volume (PCV), total solids (TS), selected biochemical parameters, and splenic thickness were investigated in horses. Four healthy mares were treated in a blinded, randomized, cross-over design with a dose of xylazine (0.5 mg/kg), romifidine (0.04 mg/kg), or detomidine (0.01 mg/kg) IV, and detomidine (0.02 mg/kg) IM. Hematology, TS, colloid osmotic pressure (COP), plasma osmolality; glucose, lactate, urea (BUN) and electrolyte concentrations; venous blood pH and ultrasonographic splenic thickness were evaluated at intervals for 300 min. Repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) were performed with P < 0.05. There was a significant change over time in PCV and TS following each treatment (P < 0.001), with median (range) reductions of 20.9% (12.9% to 27.3%) and 5.8% (3.0% to 10.3%), respectively. Red blood cell count, BUN, and COP decreased while osmolality, glucose, Na(+), and splenic thickness increased. Treatments induced clinically significant transient changes in PCV, TS, and other biochemical parameters, which should be considered when assessing horses that received these drugs.

Thermodynamic Analysis of a Mixed Refrigerant Ejector Refrigeration Cycle Operating with Two Vapor-liquid Separators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, Yingying; Chen, Youming; Wang, Lin

2018-06-01

A mixed refrigerant ejector refrigeration cycle operating with two-stage vapor-liquid separators (MRERC2) is proposed to obtain refrigeration temperature at -40°C. The thermodynamic investigations on performance of MRERC2 using zeotropic mixture refrigerant R23/R134a are performed, and the comparisons of cycle performance between MRERC2 and MRERC1 (MRERC with one-stage vapor-liquid separator) are conducted. The results show that MRERC2 can achieve refrigeration temperature varying between -23.9°C and -42.0°C when ejector pressure ratio ranges from 1.6 to 2.3 at the generation temperature of 57.3-84.9°C. The parametric analysis indicates that increasing condensing temperature decreases coefficient of performance ( COP) of MRERC2, and increasing ejector pressure ratio and mass fraction of the low boiling point component in the mixed refrigerant can improve COP of MRERC2. The MRERC2 shows its potential in utilizing low grade thermal energy as driving power to obtain low refrigeration temperature for the ejector refrigeration cycle.

Structural and kinetic analysis of the COP9-Signalosome activation and the cullin-RING ubiquitin ligase deneddylation cycle

PubMed Central

Mosadeghi, Ruzbeh; Reichermeier, Kurt M; Winkler, Martin; Schreiber, Anne; Reitsma, Justin M; Zhang, Yaru; Stengel, Florian; Cao, Junyue; Kim, Minsoo; Sweredoski, Michael J; Hess, Sonja; Leitner, Alexander; Aebersold, Ruedi; Peter, Matthias; Deshaies, Raymond J; Enchev, Radoslav I

2016-01-01

The COP9-Signalosome (CSN) regulates cullin–RING ubiquitin ligase (CRL) activity and assembly by cleaving Nedd8 from cullins. Free CSN is autoinhibited, and it remains unclear how it becomes activated. We combine structural and kinetic analyses to identify mechanisms that contribute to CSN activation and Nedd8 deconjugation. Both CSN and neddylated substrate undergo large conformational changes upon binding, with important roles played by the N-terminal domains of Csn2 and Csn4 and the RING domain of Rbx1 in enabling formation of a high affinity, fully active complex. The RING domain is crucial for deneddylation, and works in part through conformational changes involving insert-2 of Csn6. Nedd8 deconjugation and re-engagement of the active site zinc by the autoinhibitory Csn5 glutamate-104 diminish affinity for Cul1/Rbx1 by ~100-fold, resulting in its rapid ejection from the active site. Together, these mechanisms enable a dynamic deneddylation-disassembly cycle that promotes rapid remodeling of the cellular CRL network. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.12102.001 PMID:27031283

CHOP or THP-COP regimens in the treatment of newly diagnosed peripheral T-cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified: a comparison of doxorubicin and pirarubicin.

PubMed

Shibata, Yuhei; Hara, Takeshi; Kasahara, Senji; Yamada, Toshiki; Sawada, Michio; Mabuchi, Ryoko; Matsumoto, Takuro; Nakamura, Nobuhiko; Nakamura, Hiroshi; Ninomiya, Soranobu; Kitagawa, Junichi; Kanemura, Nobuhiro; Kito, Yusuke; Goto, Naoe; Miyazaki, Tatsuhiko; Takami, Tsuyoshi; Takeuchi, Tamotsu; Shimizu, Masahito; Tsurumi, Hisashi

2017-06-01

The CHOP regimen consisting of cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin (DOX), vincristine and prednisolone has been the most used regimen for peripheral T-cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified (PTCL-NOS). Pirarubicin [tetrahydropyranyladriamycin (THP)], a derivative of DOX, is an anthracycline with reportedly less cardiotoxicity than DOX. Here, we confirmed the efficacy of THP-COP using THP instead of DOX in the treatment of PTCL-NOS. The study protocol employed a retrospective, consecutive entry design. We retrospectively analysed 56 patients with PTCL-NOS who had received THP-COP or CHOP. These regimens were performed every 21 days. Twenty-nine patients received THP-COP, and 27 received CHOP. There were no significant differences in known prognostic factors, including in the International Prognostic Index (IPI) and the prognostic index for T-cell lymphoma (PIT), between the two groups. Complete remission rates in patients with THP-COP and CHOP were 52% in both groups; the 3-year overall survival (OS) rates were 67% and 52% (p = 0.074), and the 3-year progression-free survival (PFS) rates were 51% and 29% (p = 0.070), respectively. In patients with low IPI (low or low-intermediate), THP-COP had significantly better 3-year OS (100% vs. 64%; p < 0.001) and 3-year PFS (75% vs. 33%; p < 0.05) than CHOP. Similar differences between THP-COP and CHOP were observed in patients with a low PIT (groups 1 or 2). Our study showed that THP-COP produced results equivalent to CHOP regarding efficacy and safety in patients with PTCL-NOS. In patients with low IPI or PIT, THP-COP resulted in significantly better prognosis. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

A horse’s locomotor signature: COP path determined by the individual limb

PubMed Central

Hobbs, Sarah Jane; Back, Willem

2017-01-01

Introduction Ground reaction forces in sound horses with asymmetric hooves show systematic differences in the horizontal braking force and relative timing of break-over. The Center Of Pressure (COP) path quantifies the dynamic load distribution under the hoof in a moving horse. The objective was to test whether anatomical asymmetry, quantified by the difference in dorsal wall angle between the left and right forelimbs, correlates with asymmetry in the COP path between these limbs. In addition, repeatability of the COP path was investigated. Methods A larger group (n = 31) visually sound horses with various degree of dorsal hoof wall asymmetry trotted three times over a pressure mat. COP path was determined in a hoof-bound coordinate system. A relationship between correlations between left and right COP paths and degree of asymmetry was investigated. Results Using a hoof-bound coordinate system made the COP path highly repeatable and unique for each limb. The craniocaudal patterns are usually highly correlated between left and right, but the mediolateral patterns are not. Some patterns were found between COP path and dorsal wall angle but asymmetry in dorsal wall angle did not necessarily result in asymmetry in COP path and the same could be stated for symmetry. Conclusion This method is a highly sensitive method to quantify the net result of the interaction between all of the forces and torques that occur in the limb and its inertial properties. We argue that changes in motor control, muscle force, inertial properties, kinematics and kinetics can potentially be picked up at an early stage using this method and could therefore be used as an early detection method for changes in the musculoskeletal apparatus. PMID:28196073

Presence and regulation of the endocannabinoid system in human dendritic cells.

PubMed

Matias, Isabel; Pochard, Pierre; Orlando, Pierangelo; Salzet, Michel; Pestel, Joel; Di Marzo, Vincenzo

2002-08-01

Cannabinoid receptors and their endogenous ligands, the endocannabinoids, have been detected in several blood immune cells, including monocytes/macrophages, basophils and lymphocytes. However, their presence in dendritic cells, which play a key role in the initiation and development of the immune response, has never been investigated. Here we have analyzed human dendritic cells for the presence of the endocannabinoids, anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), the cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors, and one of the enzymes mostly responsible for endocannabinoid hydrolysis, the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). By using a very sensitive liquid chromatography-atmospheric pressure chemical ionization-mass spectrometric (LC-APCI-MS) method, lipids extracted from immature dendritic cells were shown to contain 2-AG, anandamide and the anti-inflammatory anandamide congener, N-palmitoylethanolamine (PalEtn) (2.1 +/- 1.0, 0.14 +/- 0.02 and 8.2 +/- 3.9 pmol x 10(-7) cells, respectively). The amounts of 2-AG, but not anandamide or PalEtn, were significantly increased following cell maturation induced by bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or the allergen Der p 1 (2.8- and 1.9-fold, respectively). By using both RT-PCR and Western immunoblotting, dendritic cells were also found to express measurable amounts of CB1 and CB2 receptors and of FAAH. Cell maturation did not consistently modify the expression of these proteins, although in some cell preparations a decrease of the levels of both CB1 and CB2 mRNA transcripts was observed after LPS stimulation. These findings demonstrate for the first time that the endogenous cannabinoid system is present in human dendritic cells and can be regulated by cell activation.

Cytokine signalling in rat pulp interstitial fluid and transcapillary fluid exchange during lipopolysaccharide-induced acute inflammation

PubMed Central

Bletsa, Athanasia; Berggreen, Ellen; Fristad, Inge; Tenstad, Olav; Wiig, Helge

2006-01-01

The dental pulp consists of loose connective tissue encased in rigid dentinal walls. Because of its topography the tissue has low interstitial compliance and limited capacity to expand during fluid volume changes. Due to limitations regarding access to interstitial fluid, basic knowledge on transcapillary fluid transport parameters is lacking for this organ. The scope of this project was dual: first we aimed at establishing a method for isolation of pulp interstitial fluid (IF), and second we applied the method in rats subjected to lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endotoxaemia. The aim was to measure colloid osmotic pressure (COP) and pro-inflammatory cytokines in the pulp IF during acute inflammation. Fluid volumes and pulpal blood flow (PBF) were measured to obtain more information about microcirculatory changes that take place in this pulpitis model. By centrifugation of incisor pulp at 239 g we were able to extract fluid representative for IF. Pulp IF had a relative high control COP (∼83% of plasma COP) and was similar to plasma COP 3 h after LPS challenge. The pulp exhibited a high content of IF (0.60 ± 0.03 ml (g wet weight)−1) and a vascular volume of 0.03 ± 0.01 ml (g w.w.)−1 No differences were observed in the distribution of fluid volumes after 1.5 and 3 h LPS exposure. PBF and systemic blood pressure dropped significantly after LPS administration. PBF remained low whereas systemic blood pressure was re-established during the 3-h period, implying organ dysfunction. There was a differential pattern of cytokine expression in pulp IF and serum with cytokines such as IL-1α, IL-1β and TNF-α locally produced, whereas others such as IFN-γ and IL-6 were produced systemically and probably spilled over to the pulp IF after LPS exposure. Our findings show that pulp IF can be isolated by centrifugation and that this method is useful when studying fluid balance and extracellular signalling mechanisms in the dental pulp in normal and pathological conditions. PMID:16527857

Variability in Postural Control With and Without Balance-Based Torso- Weighting in People With Multiple Sclerosis and Healthy Controls

PubMed Central

Widener, Gail; Allen, Diane D.

2014-01-01

Background People with multiple sclerosis (MS) have diminished postural control, and center of pressure (COP) displacement varies more in this population than in healthy controls. Balance-based torso-weighting (BBTW) can improve clinical balance and mobility in people with MS, and exploration using both linear and nonlinear measures of COP may help determine whether BBTW optimizes movement variability. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of BBTW on people with MS and healthy controls during quiet standing. Design This was a quasi-experimental study comparing COP variability between groups, between eye closure conditions, and between weighting conditions in the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral directions. Methods Twenty participants with MS and 18 healthy controls stood on a forceplate in 4 conditions: eyes open and closed and with and without BBTW. Linear measures of COP displacement included range and root mean square (RMS). Nonlinear measures included approximate entropy (ApEn) and Lyapunov exponent (LyE). Three-way repeated-measures analyses of variance compared measures across groups and conditions. The association between weighting response and baseline nonlinear variables was examined. When significant associations were found, MS subgroups were created and compared. Results The MS and control groups had significantly different range, RMS, and ApEn values. The eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions had significantly different range and RMS values. Change with weighting correlated with LyE (r=−.70) and ApEn (r=−.59). Two MS subgroups, with low and high baseline LyE values, responded to BBTW in opposite directions, with a significant main effect for weighting condition for the LyE variable in the medial-lateral direction. Limitations The small samples and no identification of impairments related to LyE at baseline were limitations of the study. Conclusions The LyE may help differentiate subgroups who respond differently to BBTW. In both subgroups, LyE values moved toward the average of healthy controls, suggesting that BBTW may help optimize movement variability in people with MS. PMID:24903118

DSCAM-mediated control of dendritic and axonal arbor outgrowth enforces tiling and inhibits synaptic plasticity

PubMed Central

Simmons, Aaron B.; Bloomsburg, Samuel J.; Sukeena, Joshua M.; Miller, Calvin J.; Ortega-Burgos, Yohaniz; Borghuis, Bart G.

2017-01-01

Mature mammalian neurons have a limited ability to extend neurites and make new synaptic connections, but the mechanisms that inhibit such plasticity remain poorly understood. Here, we report that OFF-type retinal bipolar cells in mice are an exception to this rule, as they form new anatomical connections within their tiled dendritic fields well after retinal maturity. The Down syndrome cell-adhesion molecule (Dscam) confines these anatomical rearrangements within the normal tiled fields, as conditional deletion of the gene permits extension of dendrite and axon arbors beyond these borders. Dscam deletion in the mature retina results in expanded dendritic fields and increased cone photoreceptor contacts, demonstrating that DSCAM actively inhibits circuit-level plasticity. Electrophysiological recordings from Dscam−/− OFF bipolar cells showed enlarged visual receptive fields, demonstrating that expanded dendritic territories comprise functional synapses. Our results identify cell-adhesion molecule-mediated inhibition as a regulator of circuit-level neuronal plasticity in the adult retina. PMID:29114051

7 CFR 457.126 - Popcorn cop isurance povisions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Popcorn cop isurance povisions. 457.126 Section 457.126 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) FEDERAL CROP INSURANCE CORPORATION, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS § 457.126 Popcorn cop isurance...

Diminishing the self-stigma of mental illness by coming out proud.

PubMed

Corrigan, Patrick W; Larson, Jonathon E; Michaels, Patrick J; Buchholz, Blythe A; Rossi, Rachel Del; Fontecchio, Malia Javier; Castro, David; Gause, Michael; Krzyżanowski, Richard; Rüsch, Nicolas

2015-09-30

This randomized controlled trial examined the impact of the Coming Out Proud (COP) program on self-stigma, stigma stress, and depression. Research participants who experienced mental health challenges were randomly assigned to a three session COP program (n=51) or a waitlist control (n=75). Outcome measures that assessed the progressively harmful stages of self-stigma, stigma stress appraisals, and depression were administered at pre-test, post-test, and one-month follow-up. People completing COP showed significant improvement at post-test and follow-up in the more harmful aspects of self-stigma compared to the control group. COP participants also showed improvements in stigma stress appraisals. Women participating in COP showed significant post-test and follow-up reductions in depression after COP compared to the control group. Men did not show this effect. Future research should determine whether these benefits also enhance attitudes related to recovery, empowerment, and self-determination. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

FIB/SEM technology and high-throughput 3D reconstruction of dendritic spines and synapses in GFP-labeled adult-generated neurons.

PubMed

Bosch, Carles; Martínez, Albert; Masachs, Nuria; Teixeira, Cátia M; Fernaud, Isabel; Ulloa, Fausto; Pérez-Martínez, Esther; Lois, Carlos; Comella, Joan X; DeFelipe, Javier; Merchán-Pérez, Angel; Soriano, Eduardo

2015-01-01

The fine analysis of synaptic contacts is usually performed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and its combination with neuronal labeling techniques. However, the complex 3D architecture of neuronal samples calls for their reconstruction from serial sections. Here we show that focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy (FIB/SEM) allows efficient, complete, and automatic 3D reconstruction of identified dendrites, including their spines and synapses, from GFP/DAB-labeled neurons, with a resolution comparable to that of TEM. We applied this technology to analyze the synaptogenesis of labeled adult-generated granule cells (GCs) in mice. 3D reconstruction of dendritic spines in GCs aged 3-4 and 8-9 weeks revealed two different stages of dendritic spine development and unexpected features of synapse formation, including vacant and branched dendritic spines and presynaptic terminals establishing synapses with up to 10 dendritic spines. Given the reliability, efficiency, and high resolution of FIB/SEM technology and the wide use of DAB in conventional EM, we consider FIB/SEM fundamental for the detailed characterization of identified synaptic contacts in neurons in a high-throughput manner.

FIB/SEM technology and high-throughput 3D reconstruction of dendritic spines and synapses in GFP-labeled adult-generated neurons

PubMed Central

Bosch, Carles; Martínez, Albert; Masachs, Nuria; Teixeira, Cátia M.; Fernaud, Isabel; Ulloa, Fausto; Pérez-Martínez, Esther; Lois, Carlos; Comella, Joan X.; DeFelipe, Javier; Merchán-Pérez, Angel; Soriano, Eduardo

2015-01-01

The fine analysis of synaptic contacts is usually performed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and its combination with neuronal labeling techniques. However, the complex 3D architecture of neuronal samples calls for their reconstruction from serial sections. Here we show that focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy (FIB/SEM) allows efficient, complete, and automatic 3D reconstruction of identified dendrites, including their spines and synapses, from GFP/DAB-labeled neurons, with a resolution comparable to that of TEM. We applied this technology to analyze the synaptogenesis of labeled adult-generated granule cells (GCs) in mice. 3D reconstruction of dendritic spines in GCs aged 3–4 and 8–9 weeks revealed two different stages of dendritic spine development and unexpected features of synapse formation, including vacant and branched dendritic spines and presynaptic terminals establishing synapses with up to 10 dendritic spines. Given the reliability, efficiency, and high resolution of FIB/SEM technology and the wide use of DAB in conventional EM, we consider FIB/SEM fundamental for the detailed characterization of identified synaptic contacts in neurons in a high-throughput manner. PMID:26052271

Correlates of protection for enteric vaccines.

PubMed

Holmgren, Jan; Parashar, Umesh D; Plotkin, Stanley; Louis, Jacques; Ng, Su-Peing; Desauziers, Eric; Picot, Valentina; Saadatian-Elahi, Mitra

2017-06-08

An immunological Correlate of Protection (CoP) is an immune response that is statistically interrelated with protection. Identification of CoPs for enteric vaccines would help design studies to improve vaccine performance of licensed vaccines in low income settings, and would facilitate the testing of future vaccines in development that might be more affordable. CoPs are lacking today for most existing and investigational enteric vaccines. In order to share the latest information on CoPs for enteric vaccines and to discuss novel approaches to correlate mucosal immune responses in humans with protection, the Foundation Mérieux organized an international conference of experts where potential CoPs for vaccines were examined using case-studies for both bacterial and viral enteric pathogens. Experts on the panel concluded that to date, all established enteric vaccine CoPs, such as those for hepatitis A, Vi typhoid and poliovirus vaccines, are based on serological immune responses even though these may poorly reflect the relevant gut immune responses or predict protective efficacy. Known CoPs for cholera, norovirus and rotavirus could be considered as acceptable for comparisons of similarly composed vaccines while more work is still needed to establish CoPs for the remaining enteric pathogens and their candidate vaccines. Novel approaches to correlate human mucosal immune responses with protection include the investigation of gut-originating antibody-secreting cells (ASCs), B memory cells and follicular helper T cells from samples of peripheral blood during their recirculation. Copyright © 2017.

Radiation-Induced Immune Modulation in Prostate Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-01-01

cancers. 15. SUBJECT TERMS Radiation, Dendritic Cells , Cytokines, PSA 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT 18...radiation is more than a cytotoxic agent. Our recent study has shown that radiation modulates the immune system by affecting dendritic cell (DC...translate radiation-induced tumor cell death into generation of tumor immunity in the hope of optimizing therapy for localized and disseminated prostate

A retained intron in the 3'-UTR of Calm3 mRNA mediates its Staufen2- and activity-dependent localization to neuronal dendrites.

PubMed

Sharangdhar, Tejaswini; Sugimoto, Yoichiro; Heraud-Farlow, Jacqueline; Fernández-Moya, Sandra M; Ehses, Janina; Ruiz de Los Mozos, Igor; Ule, Jernej; Kiebler, Michael A

2017-10-01

Dendritic localization and hence local mRNA translation contributes to synaptic plasticity in neurons. Staufen2 (Stau2) is a well-known neuronal double-stranded RNA-binding protein (dsRBP) that has been implicated in dendritic mRNA localization. The specificity of Stau2 binding to its target mRNAs remains elusive. Using individual-nucleotide resolution CLIP (iCLIP), we identified significantly enriched Stau2 binding to the 3'-UTRs of 356 transcripts. In 28 (7.9%) of those, binding occurred to a retained intron in their 3'-UTR The strongest bound 3'-UTR intron was present in the longest isoform of Calmodulin 3 ( Calm3 L ) mRNA Calm3 L 3'-UTR contains six Stau2 crosslink clusters, four of which are in this retained 3'-UTR intron. The Calm3 L mRNA localized to neuronal dendrites, while lack of the 3'-UTR intron impaired its dendritic localization. Importantly, Stau2 mediates this dendritic localization via the 3'-UTR intron, without affecting its stability. Also, NMDA-mediated synaptic activity specifically promoted the dendritic mRNA localization of the Calm3 L isoform, while inhibition of synaptic activity reduced it substantially. Together, our results identify the retained intron as a critical element in recruiting Stau2, which then allows for the localization of Calm3 L mRNA to distal dendrites. © 2017 The Authors.

32 CFR 635.6 - Name checks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... with AR 340-21. (b) Checks will be accomplished by a review of the COPS MPRS. Information will be... agencies for counterintelligence purposes. (d) COPS MPRS is a database, which will contain all military police reports filed worldwide. Authorized users of COPS MPRS can conduct name checks for criminal...

32 CFR 635.6 - Name checks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... with AR 340-21. (b) Checks will be accomplished by a review of the COPS MPRS. Information will be... agencies for counterintelligence purposes. (d) COPS MPRS is a database, which will contain all military police reports filed worldwide. Authorized users of COPS MPRS can conduct name checks for criminal...

32 CFR 635.6 - Name checks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... with AR 340-21. (b) Checks will be accomplished by a review of the COPS MPRS. Information will be... agencies for counterintelligence purposes. (d) COPS MPRS is a database, which will contain all military police reports filed worldwide. Authorized users of COPS MPRS can conduct name checks for criminal...

78 FR 7812 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed new Collection; Comments Requested: COPS...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-02-04

... DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE [OMB Number 1103-NEW] Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed new Collection; Comments Requested: COPS Survey on Police Consolidation and Shared Services ACTION: 60-Day Notice. The Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) will be...

78 FR 20694 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed New Collection; Comments Requested: COPS...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-05

... DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE [OMB Number 1103-NEW] Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed New Collection; Comments Requested: COPS Survey on Police Consolidation and Shared Services ACTION: 30-Day Notice. The Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) will be...

Longitudinal expression of Toll-like receptors on dendritic cells in uncomplicated pregnancy and postpartum

PubMed Central

Young, Brett C.; Stanic, Aleksandar K.; Panda, Britta; Rueda, Bo R.; Panda, Alexander

2014-01-01

OBJECTIVE Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are integral parts of the innate immune system and have been implicated in complications of pregnancy. The longitudinal expression of TLRs on dendritic cells in the maternal circulation during uncomplicated pregnancies is unknown. The objective of this study was to prospectively evaluate TLRs 1-9 as expressed on dendritic cells in the maternal circulation at defined intervals throughout pregnancy and postpartum. STUDY DESIGN This was a prospective cohort of 30 pregnant women with uncomplicated pregnancies and 30 nonpregnant controls. TLRs and cytokine expression was measured in unstimulated dendritic cells at 4 defined intervals during pregnancy and postpartum. Basal expression of TLRs and cytokines was measured by multicolor flow cytometry. The percent-positive dendritic cells for each TLRs were compared with both nonpregnant and postpartum levels with multivariate linear regression. RESULTS TLRs 1, 7, and 9 were elevated compared with nonpregnant controls with persistent elevation of TLR 1 and interleukin-12 (IL-12) into the postpartum period. Concordantly, levels of IL-6, IL-12, interferon alpha, and tumor necrosis factor alpha increased during pregnancy and returned to levels similar to nonpregnant controls during the postpartum period. The elevated levels of TLR 1 and IL-12 were persistent postpartum, challenging notions that immunologic changes during pregnancy resolve after the prototypical postpartum period. CONCLUSION Normal pregnancy is associated with time-dependent changes in TLR expression compared with nonpregnant controls; these findings may help elucidate immunologic dysfunction in complicated pregnancies. PMID:24291497

Projections of Ocean Acidification Under the U.N. Framework Convention of Climate Change Using a Reduced-Form Climate Carbon-Cycle Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hartin, C.

2016-02-01

Ocean chemistry is quickly changing in response to continued anthropogenic emissions of carbon to the atmosphere. Mean surface ocean pH has already decreased by 0.1 units relative to the preindustrial era. We use an open-source, simple climate and carbon cycle model ("Hector") to investigate future changes in ocean acidification (pH and calcium carbonate saturations) under the climate agreement from the United Nations Convention on Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC) of Parties in Paris 2015 (COP 21). Hector is a reduced-form, very fast-executing model that can emulate the global mean climate of the CMIP5 models, as well as the inorganic carbon cycle in the upper ocean, allowing us to investigate future changes in ocean acidification. We ran Hector under three different emissions trajectories, using a sensitivity analysis approach to quantify model uncertainty and capture a range of possible ocean acidification changes. The first trajectory is a business-as-usual scenario comparable to a Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 8.5, the second a scenario with the COP 21 commitments enacted, and the third an idealized scenario keeping global temperature change to 2°C, comparable to a RCP 2.6. Preliminary results suggest that under the COP 21 agreements ocean pH at 2100 will decrease by 0.2 units and surface saturations of aragonite (calcite) will decrease by 0.9 (1.4) units relative to 1850. Under the COP 21 agreement the world's oceans will be committed to a degree of ocean acidification, however, these changes may be within the range of natural variability evident in some paleo records.

Ankle muscle activity modulation during single-leg stance differs between children, young adults and seniors.

PubMed

Kurz, Eduard; Faude, Oliver; Roth, Ralf; Zahner, Lukas; Donath, Lars

2018-02-01

Incomplete maturation and aging-induced declines of the neuromuscular system affect postural control both in children and older adults and lead to high fall rates. Age-specific comparisons of the modulation of ankle muscle activation and behavioral center of pressure (COP) indices during upright stance have been rarely conducted. The objective of the present study was to quantify aging effects on a neuromuscular level. Thus, surface electromyography (SEMG) modulation and co-activity of ankle muscles during single-leg standing was compared in healthy children, young adults and seniors. Postural steadiness (velocity and mean sway frequency of COP), relative muscle activation (SEMG modulation) and co-activation of two ankle muscles (tibialis anterior, TA; soleus, SO) were examined during single-leg stance in 19 children [age, 9.7 (SD 0.5) years], 30 adults [23.3 (1.5) years] and 29 seniors [62.7 (6.1) years]. Velocity of COP in medio-lateral and anterior-posterior directions, mean sway frequency in anterior-posterior direction, relative muscle activation (TA and SO) and co-activation revealed large age effects (P < 0.003, η p 2  > 0.14). Post-hoc comparisons indicated higher COP velocities, anterior-posterior frequencies, relative SO activation and co-activation in children and seniors when compared with adults. Relative TA activation was higher in children and adults compared with seniors (P < 0.001). Increased postural sway in children and seniors seems to be counteracted with higher TA/SO co-activity and SO modulation. However, TA modulation is higher in children and adults, whereas seniors' TA modulation capacity is diminished. An aging-induced decline of TA motor units might account for deteriorations of TA modulation in seniors.

Accuracy of force and center of pressure measures of the Wii Balance Board.

PubMed

Bartlett, Harrison L; Ting, Lena H; Bingham, Jeffrey T

2014-01-01

The Nintendo Wii Balance Board (WBB) is increasingly used as an inexpensive force plate for assessment of postural control; however, no documentation of force and COP accuracy and reliability is publicly available. Therefore, we performed a standard measurement uncertainty analysis on 3 lightly and 6 heavily used WBBs to provide future users with information about the repeatability and accuracy of the WBB force and COP measurements. Across WBBs, we found the total uncertainty of force measurements to be within ± 9.1N, and of COP location within ± 4.1mm. However, repeatability of a single measurement within a board was better (4.5 N, 1.5mm), suggesting that the WBB is best used for relative measures using the same device, rather than absolute measurement across devices. Internally stored calibration values were comparable to those determined experimentally. Further, heavy wear did not significantly degrade performance. In combination with prior evaluation of WBB performance and published standards for measuring human balance, our study provides necessary information to evaluate the use of the WBB for analysis of human balance control. We suggest the WBB may be useful for low-resolution measurements, but should not be considered as a replacement for laboratory-grade force plates. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Accuracy of force and center of pressure measures of the Wii Balance Board

PubMed Central

Bartlett, Harrison L.; Ting, Lena H.; Bingham, Jeffrey T.

2013-01-01

The Nintendo Wii Balance Board (WBB) is increasingly used as an inexpensive force plate for assessment of postural control; however, no documentation of force and COP accuracy and reliability is publicly available. Therefore, we performed a standard measurement uncertainty analysis on 3 lightly and 6 heavily used WBBs to provide future users with information about the repeatability and accuracy of the WBB force and COP measurements. Across WBBs, we found the total uncertainty of force measurements to be within ±9.1 N, and of COP location within ±4.1 mm. However, repeatability of a single measurement within a board was better (4.5 N, 1.5 mm), suggesting that the WBB is best used for relative measures using the same device, rather than absolute measurement across devices. Internally stored calibration values were comparable to those determined experimentally. Further, heavy wear did not significantly degrade performance. In combination with prior evaluation of WBB performance and published standards for measuring human balance, our study provides necessary information to evaluate the use of the WBB for analysis of human balance control. We suggest the WBB may be useful for low-resolution measurements, but should not be considered as a replacement for laboratory-grade force plates. PMID:23910725

Dendrite architecture organized by transcriptional control of the F-actin nucleator Spire.

PubMed

Ferreira, Tiago; Ou, Yimiao; Li, Sally; Giniger, Edward; van Meyel, Donald J

2014-02-01

The architectures of dendritic trees are crucial for the wiring and function of neuronal circuits because they determine coverage of receptive territories, as well as the nature and strength of sensory or synaptic inputs. Here, we describe a cell-intrinsic pathway sculpting dendritic arborization (da) neurons in Drosophila that requires Longitudinals Lacking (Lola), a BTB/POZ transcription factor, and its control of the F-actin cytoskeleton through Spire (Spir), an actin nucleation protein. Loss of Lola from da neurons reduced the overall length of dendritic arbors, increased the expression of Spir, and produced inappropriate F-actin-rich dendrites at positions too near the cell soma. Selective removal of Lola from only class IV da neurons decreased the evasive responses of larvae to nociception. The increased Spir expression contributed to the abnormal F-actin-rich dendrites and the decreased nocifensive responses because both were suppressed by reduced dose of Spir. Thus, an important role of Lola is to limit expression of Spir to appropriate levels within da neurons. We found Spir to be expressed in dendritic arbors and to be important for their development. Removal of Spir from class IV da neurons reduced F-actin levels and total branch number, shifted the position of greatest branch density away from the cell soma, and compromised nocifensive behavior. We conclude that the Lola-Spir pathway is crucial for the spatial arrangement of branches within dendritic trees and for neural circuit function because it provides balanced control of the F-actin cytoskeleton.

7 CFR 457.126 - Popcorn cop isurance povisions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Popcorn cop isurance povisions. 457.126 Section 457... CORPORATION, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS § 457.126 Popcorn cop isurance povisions. The Popcorn Crop Insurance Provisions for the 1999 and succeeding crop years are as follows: FCIC...

30 CFR 585.907 - How will BOEM process my decommissioning application?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... decommissioning application with the decommissioning general concept in your approved SAP, COP, or GAP to..., COP, or GAP, and BOEM will begin the appropriate NEPA analysis and other regulatory reviews as... change in the impacts previously identified and evaluated in your SAP, COP, or GAP; (2) Require any...

32 CFR 635.16 - General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... the COPS MPRS and a systems administrator to ensure that the system is properly functioning. Reporting... System (DIBRS). The Army inputs its data into DIBRS utilizing COPS. Any data reported to DIBRS is only as good as the data reported into COPS, so the need for accuracy in reporting incidents and utilizing...

32 CFR 635.16 - General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... the COPS MPRS and a systems administrator to ensure that the system is properly functioning. Reporting... System (DIBRS). The Army inputs its data into DIBRS utilizing COPS. Any data reported to DIBRS is only as good as the data reported into COPS, so the need for accuracy in reporting incidents and utilizing...

30 CFR 585.907 - How will BOEM process my decommissioning application?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... decommissioning application with the decommissioning general concept in your approved SAP, COP, or GAP to..., COP, or GAP, and BOEM will begin the appropriate NEPA analysis and other regulatory reviews as... change in the impacts previously identified and evaluated in your SAP, COP, or GAP; (2) Require any...

32 CFR 635.16 - General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... the COPS MPRS and a systems administrator to ensure that the system is properly functioning. Reporting... System (DIBRS). The Army inputs its data into DIBRS utilizing COPS. Any data reported to DIBRS is only as good as the data reported into COPS, so the need for accuracy in reporting incidents and utilizing...

32 CFR 635.16 - General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... the COPS MPRS and a systems administrator to ensure that the system is properly functioning. Reporting... System (DIBRS). The Army inputs its data into DIBRS utilizing COPS. Any data reported to DIBRS is only as good as the data reported into COPS, so the need for accuracy in reporting incidents and utilizing...

30 CFR 585.907 - How will BOEM process my decommissioning application?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

..., COPs and GAPs Decommissioning Applications § 585.907 How will BOEM process my decommissioning... your decommissioning application with the decommissioning general concept in your approved SAP, COP, or... revise your SAP, COP, or GAP, and BOEM will begin the appropriate NEPA analysis and other regulatory...

77 FR 63293 - Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request; Coastal Ocean Program Grants Proposal...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-16

... Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Coastal Ocean Program (COP) provides direct financial assistance.... The statutory authority for COP is Public Law 102-567 Section 201 (Coastal Ocean Program). In addition... to file annual progress reports and a project final report using COP formats. All of these...

76 FR 10065 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Revision of a Previously Approved Collection, With...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-23

... Information Collection Under Review: COPS Application Package. The Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS), will be submitting the following information collection request.../Collection: COPS Application Package. (3) Agency form number, if any, and the applicable component of the...

32 CFR 635.24 - Updating the COPS MPRS.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 32 National Defense 4 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Updating the COPS MPRS. 635.24 Section 635.24 National Defense Department of Defense (Continued) DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY (CONTINUED) LAW ENFORCEMENT AND... ensure that every founded offense is reported into the COPS MPRS. Timely and accurate reporting is...

32 CFR 635.24 - Updating the COPS MPRS.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 32 National Defense 4 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 true Updating the COPS MPRS. 635.24 Section 635.24 National Defense Department of Defense (Continued) DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY (CONTINUED) LAW ENFORCEMENT AND... ensure that every founded offense is reported into the COPS MPRS. Timely and accurate reporting is...

Flight Test of Advanced Digital Control Concepts.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-03-01

34 equations, and this result is then compared against the "model" equations. OPTION :::CREATrE ,CIEY, COFPY, MAT ,AMAT, COIP-YUMAT, BMAT , 74 COPFY, CMAT...BMATY .-COPY, NMAT, AMAT ,72 ,COPY, GMAT, RMA, COP:Y, (MAT, BMA’TCOFY, MA T ,AMAT >74, COPY, CMA’TsmA, PCOPY, RMAT, BmAT , pCOPYVMiAT , AMAo.T 72...COP’Y, MAT, AMAT, >75, COPY , MAtT, BMAT , COPY, ZMAT, AMAT, 74 ,COP’Y, MAT, TMAT, COPY, VMAT, AMAT, .:COPY ,RMAiT, MAT,73,COPW GMAT, E4MAT, COP-"YTMAT

MdCOP1 Ubiquitin E3 Ligases Interact with MdMYB1 to Regulate Light-Induced Anthocyanin Biosynthesis and Red Fruit Coloration in Apple1[W][OA

PubMed Central

Li, Yuan-Yuan; Mao, Ke; Zhao, Cheng; Zhao, Xian-Yan; Zhang, Hua-Lei; Shu, Huai-Rui; Hao, Yu-Jin

2012-01-01

MdMYB1 is a crucial regulator of light-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis and fruit coloration in apple (Malus domestica). In this study, it was found that MdMYB1 protein accumulated in the light but degraded via a ubiquitin-dependent pathway in the dark. Subsequently, the MdCOP1-1 and MdCOP1-2 genes were isolated from apple fruit peel and were functionally characterized in the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) cop1-4 mutant. Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) two-hybrid, bimolecular fluorescence complementation, and coimmunoprecipitation assays showed that MdMYB1 interacts with the MdCOP1 proteins. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo experiments indicated that MdCOP1s are necessary for the ubiquitination and degradation of MdMYB1 protein in the dark and are therefore involved in the light-controlled stability of the MdMYB1 protein. Finally, a viral vector-based transformation approach demonstrated that MdCOP1s negatively regulate the peel coloration of apple fruits by modulating the degradation of the MdMYB1 protein. Our findings provide new insight into the mechanism by which light controls anthocyanin accumulation and red fruit coloration in apple and even other plant species. PMID:22855936

Evidence for involvement of the C-terminal domain in the dimerization of the CopY repressor protein from Enterococcus hirae

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

Pazehoski, Kristina O., E-mail: pazehosk@pitt.edu; Cobine, Paul A., E-mail: pac0006@auburn.edu; Winzor, Donald J.

2011-03-11

Research highlights: {yields} A metal-binding protein domain is directly involved in protein dimerization. {yields} Fusing the metal-binding domain to a monomeric protein induces dimerization. {yields} Frontal size-exclusion chromatography measures the strength of dimer interaction. {yields} Ultracentrifugation studies confirm the influence of metal binding on dimerization. -- Abstract: Metal binding to the C-terminal region of the copper-responsive repressor protein CopY is responsible for homodimerization and the regulation of the copper homeostasis pathway in Enterococcus hirae. Specific involvement of the 38 C-terminal residues of CopY in dimerization is indicated by zonal and frontal (large zone) size-exclusion chromatography studies. The studies demonstrate thatmore » the attachment of these CopY residues to the immunoglobulin-binding domain of streptococcal protein G (GB1) promotes dimerization of the monomeric protein. Although sensitivity of dimerization to removal of metal from the fusion protein is smaller than that found for CopY (as measured by ultracentrifugation studies), the demonstration that an unrelated protein (GB1) can be induced to dimerize by extending its sequence with the C-terminal portion of CopY confirms the involvement of this region in CopY homodimerization.« less

Improved determination of dynamic balance using the centre of mass and centre of pressure inclination variables in a complete golf swing cycle.

PubMed

Choi, Ahnryul; Sim, Taeyong; Mun, Joung Hwan

2016-01-01

Golf requires proper dynamic balance to accurately control the club head through a harmonious coordination of each human segment and joint. In this study, we evaluated the ability for dynamic balance during a golf swing by using the centre of mass (COM)-centre of pressure (COP) inclination variables. Twelve professional, 13 amateur and 10 novice golfers participated in this study. Six infrared cameras, two force platforms and SB-Clinic software were used to measure the net COM and COP trajectories. In order to evaluate dynamic balance ability, the COM-COP inclination angle, COM-COP inclination angular velocity and normalised COM-COP inclination angular jerk were used. Professional golfer group revealed a smaller COM-COP inclination angle and angular velocity than novice golfer group in the lead/trail direction (P < 0.01). In the normalised COM-COP inclination angular jerk, the professional golfer group showed a lower value than the other two groups in all directions. Professional golfers tend to exhibit improved dynamic balance, and this can be attributed to the neuromusculoskeletal system that maintains balance with proper postural control. This study has the potential to allow for an evaluation of the dynamic balance mechanism and will provide useful basic information for swing training and prevention of golf injuries.

Predictors of carbon monoxide poisoning-induced delayed neuropsychological sequelae.

PubMed

Ku, Hsiao-Lun; Yang, Kai-Chun; Lee, Ying-Chiao; Lee, Ming-Been; Chou, Yuan-Hwa

2010-01-01

Carbon monoxide poisoning (COP) commonly results in delayed neuropsychological sequelae (DNS). The aim of the article is to demonstrate the clinical characteristics and potential predictors of COP-induced DNS later. Retrospective medical record review was performed for patients who had COP in the past year at a National Medical Center in Taiwan. Sixty patients with COP were registered during a one-year period. Fifty-six of them (93.3%) were COP because of suicide attempt. Patients with COP who have a complete medical record of carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) and Mini-Mental Status Examination (MMSE) scores were recruited. Multiple regression analysis was performed to search for the predictive factors of DNS. Forty-three patients were recruited. Most had attempted suicide (93.0%) using CO, and thirteen developed DNS later. A longer duration of admission, more sessions of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and positive findings in brain computed tomography (CT) scans were more often found in patients with DNS than those without DNS. The GCS and MMSE scores and positive findings in brain CT scans were associated with the development of DNS but COHb was not. Our results identified several potential predictors of DNS. This finding may help clinicians understand and treat COP patients efficiently. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Performance characteristics of low global warming potential R134a alternative refrigerants in ejector-expansion refrigeration system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mishra, Shubham; Sarkar, Jahar

2016-12-01

Performance assessment of ejector-expansion vapor compression refrigeration system with eco-friendly R134a alternative refrigerants (R152a, R1234yf, R600a, R600, R290, R161, R32, and propylene) is presented for air-conditioning application. Ejector has been modeled by considering experimental data based correlations of component efficiencies to take care of all irreversibilities. Ejector area ratio has been optimized based on maximum coefficient of performance (COP) for typical air-conditioner operating temperatures. Selected refrigerants have been compared based on area ratio, pressure lift ratio, entrainment ratio, COP, COP improvement and volumetric cooling capacity. Effects of normal boiling point and critical point on the performances have been studied as well. Using ejector as an expansion device, maximum improvement in COP is noted in R1234yf (10.1%), which reduces the COP deviation with R134a (4.5% less in basic cycle and 2.5% less in ejector cycle). Hence, R1234yf seems to be best alternative for ejector expansion system due to its mild flammability and comparable volumetric capacity and cooling COP. refrigerant R161 is superior to R134a in terms of both COP and volumetric cooling capacity, although may be restricted for low capacity application due to its flammability.

Single leg balancing in ballet: effects of shoe conditions and poses.

PubMed

Lobo da Costa, Paula H; Azevedo Nora, Fernanda G S; Vieira, Marcus Fraga; Bosch, Kerstin; Rosenbaum, Dieter

2013-03-01

The purpose of this study was to describe the effects of lower limb positioning and shoe conditions on stability levels of selected single leg ballet poses performed in demi-pointe position. Fourteen female non-professional ballet dancers (mean age of 18.4±2.8 years and mean body mass index of 21.5±2.8kg/m(2)) who had practiced ballet for at least seven years, without any musculoskeletal impairment volunteered to participate in this study. A capacitive pressure platform allowed for the assessment of center of pressure variables related to the execution of three single leg ballet poses in demi pointé position: attitude devant, attitude derriére, and attitude a la second. Peak pressures, contact areas, COP oscillation areas, anterior-posterior and medio-lateral COP oscillations and velocities were compared between two shoe conditions (barefoot versus slippers) and among the different poses. Barefoot performances produced more stable poses with significantly higher plantar contact areas, smaller COP oscillation areas and smaller anterior-posterior COP oscillations. COP oscillation areas, anterior-posterior COP oscillations and medio-lateral COP velocities indicated that attitude a la second is the least challenging and attitude derriére the most challenging pose. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Using a community of practice to evaluate falls prevention activity in a residential aged care organisation: a clinical audit.

PubMed

Francis-Coad, Jacqueline; Etherton-Beer, Christopher; Bulsara, Caroline; Nobre, Debbie; Hill, Anne-Marie

2017-03-01

Objective This study evaluates whether a community of practice (CoP) could conduct a falls prevention clinical audit and identify gaps in falls prevention practice requiring action. Methods Cross-sectional falls prevention clinical audits were conducted in 13 residential aged care (RAC) sites of a not-for-profit organisation providing care to a total of 779 residents. The audits were led by an operationalised CoP assisted by site clinical staff. A CoP is a group of people with a shared interest who get together to innovate for change. The CoP was made up of self-nominated staff representing all RAC sites and comprised of staff from various disciplines with a shared interest in falls prevention. Results All 13 (100%) sites completed the audit. CoP conduct of the audit met identified criteria for an effective clinical audit. The priorities for improvement were identified as increasing the proportion of residents receiving vitamin D supplementation (mean 41.5%, s.d. 23.7) and development of mandatory falls prevention education for staff and a falls prevention policy, as neither was in place at any site. CoP actions undertaken included a letter to visiting GPs requesting support for vitamin D prescription, surveys of care staff and residents to inform falls education development, defining falls and writing a falls prevention policy. Conclusion A CoP was able to effectively conduct an evidence-based falls prevention activity audit and identify gaps in practice. CoP members were well positioned, as site staff, to overcome barriers and facilitate action in falls prevention practice. What is known about the topic? Audit and feedback is an effective way of measuring clinical quality and safety. CoPs have been established in healthcare using workplace staff to address clinical problems but little is known about their ability to audit and influence practice change. What does this paper add? This study contributes to the body of knowledge on CoPs in healthcare by evaluating the performance of one in the domain of falls prevention audit action. What are the implications for practitioners? A CoP is an effective model to engage staff in the clinical audit process. Clinical audits can raise staff awareness of gaps in practice and motivate staff to plan and action change as recommended in best practice guidelines.

Selective Radical Amination of Aldehydic C(sp2)–H Bonds with Fluoroaryl Azides via Co(II)-Based Metalloradical Catalysis: Synthesis of N-Fluoroaryl Amides from Aldehydes under Neutral and Nonoxidative Conditions

PubMed Central

Jin, Li-Mei; Lu, Hongjian; Cui, Yuan; Lizardi, Christopher L.; Arzua, Thiago N.; Wojtas, Lukasz; Cui, Xin

2014-01-01

The Co(II) complex of the D2h-symmetric amidoporphyrin 3,5-DitBu-IbuPhyrin, [Co(P1)], has proven to be an effective metalloradical catalyst for intermolecular amination of C(sp2)–H bonds of aldehydes with fluoroaryl azides. The [Co(P1)]-catalyzed process can employ aldehydes as the limiting reagents and operate under neutral and non-oxidative conditions, generating nitrogen gas as the only byproduct. The metalloradical aldehydic C–H amination is suitable for different combinations of aldehydes and fluoroaryl azides, producing the corresponding N-fluoroaryl amides in good to excellent yields. A series of mechanistic studies support a stepwise radical mechanism for the Co(II)-catalyzed intermolecular C–H amination. PMID:25071929

Lynx1 Limits Dendritic Spine Turnover in the Adult Visual Cortex

PubMed Central

Sajo, Mari

2016-01-01

Dendritic spine turnover becomes limited in the adult cerebral cortex. Identification of specific aspects of spine dynamics that can be unmasked in adulthood and its regulatory molecular mechanisms could provide novel therapeutic targets for inducing plasticity at both the functional and structural levels for robust recovery from brain disorders and injuries in adults. Lynx1, an endogenous inhibitor of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, was previously shown to increase its expression in adulthood and thus to limit functional ocular dominance plasticity in adult primary visual cortex (V1). However, the role of this “brake” on spine dynamics is not known. We examined the contribution of Lynx1 on dendritic spine turnover before and after monocular deprivation (MD) in adult V1 with chronic in vivo imaging using two-photon microscopy and determined the spine turnover rate of apical dendrites of layer 5 (L5) and L2/3 pyramidal neurons in adult V1 of Lynx1 knock-out (KO) mice. We found that the deletion of Lynx1 doubled the baseline spine turnover rate, suggesting that the spine dynamics in the adult cortex is actively limited by the presence of Lynx1. After MD, adult Lynx1-KO mice selectively exhibit higher rate of spine loss with no difference in gain rate in L5 neurons compared with control wild-type counterparts, revealing a key signature of spine dynamics associated with robust functional plasticity in adult V1. Overall, Lynx1 could be a promising therapeutic target to induce not only functional, but also structural plasticity at the level of spine dynamics in the adult brain. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Dendritic spine turnover becomes limited in the adult cortex. In mouse visual cortex, a premier model of experience-dependent plasticity, we found that the deletion of Lynx1, a nicotinic “brake” for functional plasticity, doubled the baseline spine turnover in adulthood, suggesting that the spine dynamics in the adult cortex is actively limited by Lynx1. After visual deprivation, spine loss, but not gain rate, remains higher in adult Lynx1 knock-out mice than in control wild-type mice, revealing a key signature of spine dynamics associated with robust functional plasticity. Lynx1 would be a promising target to induce not only functional, but also structural plasticity at the level of spine dynamics in adulthood. PMID:27605620

SMART-COP: a tool for predicting the need for intensive respiratory or vasopressor support in community-acquired pneumonia.

PubMed

Charles, Patrick G P; Wolfe, Rory; Whitby, Michael; Fine, Michael J; Fuller, Andrew J; Stirling, Robert; Wright, Alistair A; Ramirez, Julio A; Christiansen, Keryn J; Waterer, Grant W; Pierce, Robert J; Armstrong, John G; Korman, Tony M; Holmes, Peter; Obrosky, D Scott; Peyrani, Paula; Johnson, Barbara; Hooy, Michelle; Grayson, M Lindsay

2008-08-01

Existing severity assessment tools, such as the pneumonia severity index (PSI) and CURB-65 (tool based on confusion, urea level, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and age >or=65 years), predict 30-day mortality in community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and have limited ability to predict which patients will require intensive respiratory or vasopressor support (IRVS). The Australian CAP Study (ACAPS) was a prospective study of 882 episodes in which each patient had a detailed assessment of severity features, etiology, and treatment outcomes. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify features at initial assessment that were associated with receipt of IRVS. These results were converted into a simple points-based severity tool that was validated in 5 external databases, totaling 7464 patients. In ACAPS, 10.3% of patients received IRVS, and the 30-day mortality rate was 5.7%. The features statistically significantly associated with receipt of IRVS were low systolic blood pressure (2 points), multilobar chest radiography involvement (1 point), low albumin level (1 point), high respiratory rate (1 point), tachycardia (1 point), confusion (1 point), poor oxygenation (2 points), and low arterial pH (2 points): SMART-COP. A SMART-COP score of >or=3 points identified 92% of patients who received IRVS, including 84% of patients who did not need immediate admission to the intensive care unit. Accuracy was also high in the 5 validation databases. Sensitivities of PSI and CURB-65 for identifying the need for IRVS were 74% and 39%, respectively. SMART-COP is a simple, practical clinical tool for accurately predicting the need for IRVS that is likely to assist clinicians in determining CAP severity.

Unilateral Hearing Loss Is Associated With Impaired Balance in Children: A Pilot Study.

PubMed

Wolter, Nikolaus E; Cushing, Sharon L; Vilchez-Madrigal, Luis D; James, Adrian L; Campos, Jennifer; Papsin, Blake C; Gordon, Karen A

2016-12-01

To determine if children with unilateral sensorineural hearing loss (UHL) demonstrate impaired balance compared with their normal hearing (NH) peers. Prospective, case-control study. Balance was assessed in14 UHL and 14 NH children using the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test-2 (BOT-2) and time to fall (TTF) in an immersive, virtual-reality laboratory. Postural control was quantified by center of pressure (COP) using force plates. The effect of vision on balance was assessed by comparing scores and COP characteristics on BOT-2 tasks performed with eyes open and closed. Balance ability as measured by the BOT-2 score was significantly worse in children with UHL compared with NH children (p = 0.004). TTF was shorter in children with UHL compared with NH children in the most difficult tasks when visual and somatosensory inputs were limited (p < 0.01). Visual input improved postural control (reduced COP variability) in both groups in all tasks (p < 0.05) but postural control as measured by COP variability was more affected in children with UHL when visual input was removed while performing moderately difficult tasks (i.e., standing on one foot) (p = 0.02). In this pilot study, children with UHL show poorer balance skills than NH children. Significant differences in TTF between the two groups were only seen in the most difficult tasks and therefore may be missed on routine clinical assessment. Children with UHL appear to rely more on vision for maintaining postural control than their NH peers. These findings may point to deficits not only in the hearing but also the vestibular portion of the inner ear.

Effectiveness of a Nintendo Wii balance board exercise programme on standing balance of children with cerebral palsy: A randomised clinical trial protocol.

PubMed

Gatica-Rojas, Valeska; Cartes-Velásquez, Ricardo; Guzmán-Muñoz, Eduardo; Méndez-Rebolledo, Guillermo; Soto-Poblete, Alex; Pacheco-Espinoza, Ana Carolina; Amigo-Mendoza, Carlos; Albornoz-Verdugo, M Eliana; Elgueta-Cancino, Edith

2017-06-01

Patients with cerebral palsy (CP) typically receive limited physical therapy services. However, the Nintendo Wii system offers a simple and affordable mode of virtual reality therapy. There are no clinical trials assessing the Nintendo Wii balance board for improving standing balance in CP. This randomised clinical trial will evaluate the effectiveness of an 18-session/six-week protocol using Wii therapy (W-t) compared with conventional therapy (C-t) in Chilean CP patients. The C-t group will perform the typical exercises prescribed by physical therapists for 40 min each session. W-t will consist of a virtual reality training session using the Nintendo Wii balance board console for 30 min each session. The primary outcome variable is the area of centre-of-pressure (CoP) sway (CoP Sway ). The secondary outcomes are the standard deviation (SD ML ; SD AP ) and velocity (V ML ; V AP ) of CoP in the ML and AP directions. For a mean difference of 21.5 cm 2 (CoP Sway ) between the groups, we required a minimum of 16 participants in each group. Data will be collected at baseline (week 0), during the study (weeks 2 and 4), at the end of the study (week 6), and during the follow-up (weeks 8 and 10). Measurements of postural control during quiet standing for both groups will be assessed on a force platform AMTI OR67. This is the first trial that measures and compares the effects of a Nintendo Wii Balance Board exercise programme on standing balance in children with cerebral palsy compared to conventional therapy.

Computational Prediction of Muscle Moments During ARED Squat Exercise on the International Space Station.

PubMed

Fregly, Benjamin J; Fregly, Christopher D; Kim, Brandon T

2015-12-01

Prevention of muscle atrophy caused by reduced mechanical loading in microgravity conditions remains a challenge for long-duration spaceflight. To combat leg muscle atrophy, astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) often perform squat exercise using the Advanced Resistive Exercise Device (ARED). While the ARED is effective at building muscle strength and volume on Earth, NASA researchers do not know how closely ARED squat exercise on the ISS replicates Earth-level squat muscle moments, or how small variations in exercise form affect muscle loading. This study used dynamic simulations of ARED squat exercise on the ISS to address these two questions. A multibody dynamic model of the complete astronaut-ARED system was constructed in OpenSim. With the ARED base locked to ground and gravity set to 9.81 m/s², we validated the model by reproducing muscle moments, ground reaction forces, and foot center of pressure (CoP) positions for ARED squat exercise on Earth. With the ARED base free to move relative to the ISS and gravity set to zero, we then used the validated model to simulate ARED squat exercise on the ISS for a reference squat motion and eight altered squat motions involving changes in anterior-posterior (AP) foot or CoP position on the ARED footplate. The reference squat motion closely reproduced Earth-level muscle moments for all joints except the ankle. For the altered squat motions, changing the foot position was more effective at altering muscle moments than was changing the CoP position. All CoP adjustments introduced an undesirable shear foot reaction force that could cause the feet to slip on the ARED footplate, while some foot and CoP adjustments introduced an undesirable sagittal plane foot reaction moment that would cause the astronaut to rotate off the ARED footplate without the use of some type of foot fixation. Our results provide potentially useful information for achieving desired increases or decreases in specific muscle moments during ARED squat exercise performed on the ISS.

Right cerebral hemisphere specialization for quiet and perturbed body balance control: Evidence from unilateral stroke.

PubMed

Fernandes, Corina Aparecida; Coelho, Daniel Boari; Martinelli, Alessandra Rezende; Teixeira, Luis Augusto

2018-02-01

Our aim in this investigation was to assess the relative importance of each cerebral hemisphere in quiet and perturbed balance, based on uni-hemispheric lesions by stroke. We tested the hypothesis of right cerebral hemisphere specialization for balance control. Groups of damage either to the right (RHD, n=9) or the left (LHD, n=7) cerebral hemisphere were compared across tasks requiring quiet balance or body balance recovery following a mechanical perturbation, comparing them to age-matched nondisabled individuals (controls, n=24). They were evaluated in conditions of full and occluded vision. In Experiment 1, the groups were compared in the task of quiet standing on (A) rigid and (B) malleable surfaces, having as outcome measures center of pressure (CoP) amplitude and velocity sway. In Experiment 2, we evaluated the recovery of body balance following a perturbation inducing forward body oscillation, having as outcome measures CoP displacement, peak hip and ankle rotations and muscular activation of both legs. Results from Experiment 1 showed higher values of CoP sway velocity for RHD in comparison to LHD and controls in the anteroposterior (rigid surface) and mediolateral (malleable surface) directions, while LHD had lower balance stability than the controls only in the mediolateral direction when supported on the rigid surface. In Experiment 2 results showed that RHD led to increased values in comparison to LHD and controls for anteroposterior CoP displacement and velocity, time to CoP direction reversion, hip rotation, and magnitude of muscular activation in the paretic leg, while LHD was found to differ in comparison to controls in magnitude of muscular activation of the paretic leg and amplitude of mediolateral sway only. These results suggest that damage to the right as compared to the left cerebral hemisphere by stroke leads to poorer postural responses both in quiet and perturbed balance. That effect was not altered by manipulation of sensory information. Our findings suggest that the right cerebral hemisphere plays a more prominent role in efferent processes responsible for balance control. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

National Trends in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty in Extremely Young Patients: A Focus on Bearing Surface Usage From 2009 to 2012.

PubMed

Rajaee, Sean S; Theriault, Raminta V; Pevear, Mary E; Smith, Eric L

2016-09-01

The ideal bearing surface for primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) in young patients remains a debate. Data on recent national trends are lacking. The purpose of this study is to provide an analysis on the national epidemiologic trends of bearing surface usage in patients aged ≤30 years undergoing THA from 2009 through 2012. Using the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 2009 to 2012, 9265 THA discharges (4210 coded by bearing surface) were identified in patients aged ≤30 years. Prevalence of surface type was analyzed along with patient and hospital demographic data. Statistical analysis was performed using SAS (SAS version 9.1; SAS, Inc, Cary, NC). Significance was set at P < .05. Ceramic-on-polyethylene (CoP) bearing surfaces were most commonly used, representing 35.6% of cases, followed by metal-on-polyethylene (MoP; 28.0%), metal-on-metal (MoM; 19.3%), and ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC; 17.0%) bearing surfaces. Hard-on-hard bearing surfaces (MoM and CoC) represented only 36.4% of cases, a significant decrease from previously reported findings (2006-2009) where hard-on-hard bearing surfaces were the majority (62.2%; P < .05). Hard-on-hard bearing surface usage decreased from 2009 to 2012 (MoM: 29.7% to 10.2%; CoC: 20.0% to 14.7%), whereas hard-on-soft bearing surface usage (MoP and CoP) increased. CoP bearing surfaces saw the most significant increase from 25.7% in 2009 to 48.2% in 2012. A cost analysis revealed that CoP discharges were associated with higher hospital charges than other surface types, with an average charge of $66,457 (P < .05). Use of hard-on-hard surfaces has decreased significantly in this population, whereas CoP and MoP surfaces have become increasingly common. Determining the optimal bearing surface for extremely young patients continues to be a challenge for orthopedic surgeons as they weigh the risks and benefits of each. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Calcium transient prevalence across the dendritic arbor predicts place field properties

PubMed Central

Sheffield, Mark E. J.; Dombeck, Daniel A.

2014-01-01

Establishing the hippocampal cellular ensemble that represents an animal’s environment involves the emergence and disappearance of place fields in specific CA1 pyramidal neurons1–4, and the acquisition of different spatial firing properties across the active population5. While such firing flexibility and diversity have been linked to spatial memory, attention and task performance6,7, the cellular and network origin of these place cell features is unknown. Basic integrate-and-fire models of place firing propose that such features result solely from varying inputs to place cells8,9, but recent studies3,10 instead suggest that place cells themselves may play an active role through regenerative dendritic events. However, due to the difficulty of performing functional recordings from place cell dendrites, no direct evidence of regenerative dendritic events exists, leaving any possible connection to place coding unknown. Using multi-plane two-photon calcium imaging of CA1 place cell somata, axons, and dendrites in mice navigating a virtual environment, we show that regenerative dendritic events do exist in place cells of behaving mice and, surprisingly, their prevalence throughout the arbor is highly spatiotemporally variable. Further, we show that the prevalence of such events predicts the spatial precision and persistence or disappearance of place fields. This suggests that the dynamics of spiking throughout the dendritic arbor may play a key role in forming the hippocampal representation of space. PMID:25363782

Effectiveness and Limitations of Unsupervised Home-Based Balance Rehabilitation with Nintendo Wii in People with Multiple Sclerosis.

PubMed

Pau, Massimiliano; Coghe, Giancarlo; Corona, Federica; Leban, Bruno; Marrosu, Maria Giovanna; Cocco, Eleonora

2015-01-01

Balance training represents a critical part of the rehabilitation process of individuals living with multiple sclerosis (MS) since impaired postural control is a distinctive symptom of the disease. In recent years, the use of the Nintendo Wii system has become widespread among rehabilitation specialists for this purpose, but few studies have verified the effectiveness of such an approach using quantitative measures of balance. In this study, we analyzed the postural sway features of a cohort of twenty-seven individuals with MS before and after 5 weeks of unsupervised home-based balance training with the Wii system. Center of pressure (COP) time-series were recorded using a pressure platform and processed to calculate sway area, COP path length, displacements, and velocities in mediolateral (ML) and anteroposterior (AP) directions. Although the results show a significant reduction in sway area, COP displacements, and velocity, such improvements are essentially restricted to the ML direction, as the Wii platform appears to properly stimulate the postural control system in the frontal plane but not in the sagittal one. Available Wii games, although somewhat beneficial, appear not fully suitable for rehabilitation in MS owing to scarce flexibility and adaptability to MS needs and thus specific software should be developed.

Effectiveness and Limitations of Unsupervised Home-Based Balance Rehabilitation with Nintendo Wii in People with Multiple Sclerosis

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

Balance training represents a critical part of the rehabilitation process of individuals living with multiple sclerosis (MS) since impaired postural control is a distinctive symptom of the disease. In recent years, the use of the Nintendo Wii system has become widespread among rehabilitation specialists for this purpose, but few studies have verified the effectiveness of such an approach using quantitative measures of balance. In this study, we analyzed the postural sway features of a cohort of twenty-seven individuals with MS before and after 5 weeks of unsupervised home-based balance training with the Wii system. Center of pressure (COP) time-series were recorded using a pressure platform and processed to calculate sway area, COP path length, displacements, and velocities in mediolateral (ML) and anteroposterior (AP) directions. Although the results show a significant reduction in sway area, COP displacements, and velocity, such improvements are essentially restricted to the ML direction, as the Wii platform appears to properly stimulate the postural control system in the frontal plane but not in the sagittal one. Available Wii games, although somewhat beneficial, appear not fully suitable for rehabilitation in MS owing to scarce flexibility and adaptability to MS needs and thus specific software should be developed. PMID:26583146

Immediate effects of Pilates based therapeutic exercise on postural control of young individuals with non-specific low back pain: A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Lopes, Susana; Correia, Christophe; Félix, Gonçalo; Lopes, Mário; Cruz, Ana; Ribeiro, Fernando

2017-10-01

Low back pain affects the person's ability to keep balance, especially in challenging conditions. The purpose of this study was to determine the immediate effects of Pilates exercises on postural sway and dynamic balance of young individuals with non-specific low back pain. Controlled laboratory design. Forty-six participants with non-specific low back pain were randomized to a Pilates (n=23, 10 males; age: 21.8±3.2years) and a control group (n=23, 9 males; age: 22.8±3.6years). Postural sway was assessed with a force platform and dynamic balance with the Star Excursion Balance Test, before and after the intervention or rest period. To assess postural sway, participants stood still on an unstable surface set on the force plate for 90s, with eyes closed. The intervention lasted 20min and consisted on four Pilates exercises: single leg stretch (level 1), pelvic press (level 1), swimming (level 1) and kneeling opposite arm and leg reach. At baseline, no differences were found between groups. The Pilates group improved in all the postural sway values (area of CoP: 11.5±3.4 to 9.7±2.7cm 2 , p=0.002 and CoP velocity: 2.8±0.6 to 2.3±0.5cm/s, p<0.001) and in the Star Excursion Balance Test. Control group only improved in CoP velocity, however, this improvement was significantly inferior compared to the Pilates group. Pilates exercises immediately improved postural sway and dynamic balance in young adults with non-specific low back pain. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The effects of acute experimental hip muscle pain on dynamic single-limb balance performance in healthy middle-aged adults.

PubMed

Hatton, Anna L; Hug, François; Chen, Sarah H; Reid, Christine; Sorensen, Nicole A; Tucker, Kylie

2016-10-01

Middle-aged adults with painful hip conditions show balance impairments that are consistent with an increased risk of falls. Pathological changes at the hip, accompanied by pain, may accelerate pre-existing age-related balance deficits present in midlife. To consider the influence of pain alone, we investigated the effects of acute experimental hip muscle pain on dynamic single-limb balance in middle-aged adults. Thirty-four healthy adults aged 40-60 years formed two groups (Group-1: n=16; Group-2: n=18). Participants performed four tasks: Reactive Sideways Stepping (ReactSide); Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT); Step Test; Single-Limb Squat; before and after an injection of hypertonic saline into the right gluteus medius muscle (Group-1) or ∼5min rest (Group-2). Balance measures included the range and standard deviation of centre of pressure (CoP) movement in mediolateral and anterior-posterior directions, and CoP total path velocity (ReactSide, Squat); reach distance (SEBT); and number of completed steps (Step Test). Data were assessed using three-way analysis of variance. Motor outcomes were altered during the second repetition of tasks irrespective of exposure to experimental hip muscle pain or rest, with reduced SEBT anterior reach (-1.2±4.1cm, P=0.027); greater step number during Step Test (1.5±1.7 steps, P<0.001); and slower CoP velocity during Single-Limb Squat (-4.9±9.4mms -1 , P=0.024). Factors other than the presence of pain may play a greater role in balance impairments in middle-aged adults with hip pathologies. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Silicon ribbon study program. [dendritic crystals for use in solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Seidensticker, R. G.; Duncan, C. S.

1975-01-01

The feasibility is studied of growing wide, thin silicon dendritic web for solar cell fabrication and conceptual designs are developed for the apparatus required. An analysis of the mechanisms of dendritic web growth indicated that there were no apparent fundamental limitations to the process. The analysis yielded quantitative guidelines for the thermal conditions required for this mode of crystal growth. Crucible designs were then investigated: the usual quartz crucible configurations and configurations in which silicon itself is used for the crucible. The quartz crucible design is feasible and is incorporated into a conceptual design for a laboratory scale crystal growth facility capable of semi-automated quasi-continuous operation.

Preparation of morphology-controllable polyaniline and polyaniline/graphene hydrogels for high performance binder-free supercapacitor electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Jinwei; Zhong, Wenbin; Zou, Yubo; Xiong, Changlun; Yang, Wantai

2016-07-01

Polyaniline (PANI) and its composite hydrogels have been considered as a unique supercapacitor electrode material due to their three dimensional (3D) porous structures, formed conducting networks, high specific surface areas and fast electron/ion transfer. Herein, dendritic and long fibrous PANI nanostructure hydrogels (PDH and PFH), dendritic PNAI nanofiber/graphene and long PANI nanofibers/Nitrogen-doped graphene composite hydrogels (PGH and PNGH) were prepared by integration polymerization of aniline and hydrothermal process. It was found that the addition of p-Phenylenediamine (PPD) not only controlled the morphologies of PANI from dendritic to long fibrous, but also facilitated the graphene oxide (GO) into nitrogen-doped graphene. Furthermore, after freeze-drying, PDH and PGH exhibited a max compressive strength of 9.5 and 9.6 KPa, respectively; while the max compressive strength of PFH and PNGH constructed with long PANI nanofiber is 79.9 and 75.8 KPa, respectively. Directly using these prepared hydrogels as electrodes for supercapacitors, it was found that PDH, PFH, PGH and PNGH exhibited high specific capacitances of 448.6, 470, 540.9 and 610 F g-1, respectively, at the current density of 1 A g-1. It is expected that the prepared PDH, PFH, PGH and PNGH can be directly applied in the field of high performance energy storage devices.

A new SPE/GC-fid method for the determination of cholesterol oxidation products. Application to subcutaneous fat from Iberian dry-cured ham.

PubMed

Narváez-Rivas, Mónica; Pham, Alessandra J; Schilling, M Wes; León-Camacho, Manuel

2014-05-01

A new method for the isolation and analysis of cholesterol oxidation products (COPs) using solid phase extraction (SPE) and silica columns was developed using gas chromatography-flame ion detection (GC-FID). The method comprises of saponification and liquid-liquid extraction of the unsaponifiable fraction prior to the isolation and derivatization of the COPs to trimethylsilyl ethers. The COPs used in this study are cholestane-5α-6α-epoxide, cholestane-3β-5α-6β-triol, 25-hydroxycholesterol and 5-cholesten-3β-ol-7-one. In order to identify the COPs fraction a GC-ion-trap-mass spectrometry experiment were conducted using authentic standards to verify the presence of the COPs. The method was effective at rapidly separating the COPs (25 min run). Calibration curves were linear with the LODs and LOQs bellow 0.03 and 0.07 mgkg(-1) for all cases, respectively. This methodology gave a total recovery for every compound that was used in the study. Betulin was used as an internal standard to monitor the recovery. The method was validated with a standard mixture of COPs. The method has been applied to characterize the COP fraction of subcutaneous fat from Iberian dry-cured ham. Cholestane-5α-6α-epoxide, cholestane-3β-5α-6β-triol, 25-hydroxycholesterol and 5-cholesten-3β-ol-7-one have been identified for the first time in these samples. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The Chromobacterium violaceum type III effector CopE, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Rac1 and Cdc42, is involved in bacterial invasion of epithelial cells and pathogenesis.

PubMed

Miki, Tsuyoshi; Akiba, Kinari; Iguchi, Mirei; Danbara, Hirofumi; Okada, Nobuhiko

2011-06-01

The type III secretion system (T3SS) encoded by Chromobacterium pathogenicity islands 1 and 1a (Cpi-1/-1a) is critical for Chromobacterium violaceum pathogenesis. T3SS-dependent virulence is commonly characterized by type III effector virulence function, but the full repertoire of the effector proteins of Cpi-1/-1a T3SS is unknown. In this study, we showed that expression of Cpi-1/-1a T3SS is controlled by the master regulator CilA. We used transcriptional profiling with DNA microarrays to define CilA regulon and identified genes encoding T3SS effectors whose translocation into host cells was dependent on Cpi-1/-1a T3SS. From these effectors, we found that CopE (CV0296) has similarities to a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) for Rho GTPases in its C-terminal portion. The N-terminal portions (1-81 amino acids) of CopE and a CivB as a putative chaperone were required for its translocation. CopE specifically activates Rac1 and Cdc42 followed by the induction of actin cytoskeletal rearrangement. Interestingly, C. violaceum invades human epithelial HeLa cells in a Cpi-1/-1a-encoded T3SS- and CopE-dependent manner. Finally, C. violaceum strains lacking copE and expressing a CopE-G168V deficient in GEF activity were attenuated for virulence in mice, suggesting that CopE contributes to the virulence of this pathogen. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Relationships between the center of pressure and the movements of the ankle and knee joints during the stance phase in patients with severe medial knee osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Fukaya, Takashi; Mutsuzaki, Hirotaka; Okubo, Tomoyuki; Mori, Koichi; Wadano, Yasuyoshi

2016-08-01

The knee joint movement during the stance phase is affected by altered ankle movement and the center of pressure (COP). However the relationships between changes in the center of pressure (COP) and the altered kinematics and kinetics of the ankle and knee joints in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee are not well understood. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationships between changes in the COP and the altered kinematic and kinetic variables in ankle and knee joints during the stance phase in patients with medial knee OA. Fourteen patients with knee OA (21 knees) and healthy subjects were assessed by gait analysis using an eight-camera motion analysis system to record forward and lateral shifts in the COP and the angle and net internal moments of the knee and ankle joint. Spearman rank-correlation coefficients were used to determine the relationship between these results. In knees with medial OA, lateral shifts in the COP were correlated with knee flexion angle. Lateral shifts in the COP were correlated with the second peak of the knee extensor moment and correlated with the knee abductor moment. In patients with medial knee OA, lateral shifts in the COP were negatively correlated with the kinematic and kinetic variables in the sagittal plane of the knee joints. Controlling such lateral shifts in the COP may thus be an effective intervention for mechanical loads on the knee during the stance phase in patients with knee OA. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

NATO initial common operational picture capability project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fanti, Laura; Beach, David

2002-08-01

The Common Operational Picture (COP) capability can be defined as the ability to display on a single screen integrated views of the Recognized Maritime, Air and Ground Pictures, enriched by other tactical data, such as theater plans, assets, intelligence and logistics information. The purpose of the COP capability is to provide military forces a comprehensive view of the battle space, thereby enhancing situational awareness and the decision-making process across the military command and control spectrum. The availability of a COP capability throughout the command structure is a high priority operational requirement in NATO. A COP capability for NATO is being procured and implemented in an incremental way within the NATO Automated Information System (Bi-SC AIS) Functional Services programme under the coordination of the NATO Consultation, Command and Control Agency (NC3A) Integrated Programme Team 5 (IPT5). The NATO Initial COP (iCOP) capability project, first step of this evolutionary procurement, will provide an initial COP capability to NATO in a highly pragmatic and low-risk fashion, by using existing operational communications infrastructure and NATO systems, i.e. the NATO-Wide Integrated Command and Control Software for Air Operations (ICC), the Maritime Command and Control Information System (MCCIS), and the Joint Operations and Intelligence Information System (JOIIS), which will provide respectively the Recognized Air, Maritime and Ground Pictures. This paper gives an overview of the NATO Initial COP capability project, including its evolutionary implementation approach, and describes the technical solution selected to satisfy the urgent operational requirement in a timely and cost effective manner.

β-COP as a Component of Transport Vesicles for HDL Apolipoprotein-Mediated Cholesterol Exocytosis

PubMed Central

Ma, Weilie; Lin, Margarita; Ding, Hang; Lin, Guorong; Zhang, Zhizhen

2016-01-01

Objective HDL and its apolipoproteins protect against atherosclerotic disease partly by removing excess cholesterol from macrophage foam cells. But the underlying mechanisms of cholesterol clearance are still not well defined. We investigated roles of vesicle trafficking of coatomer β-COP in delivering cholesterol to the cell surface during apoA-1 and apoE-mediated lipid efflux from fibroblasts and THP-1 macrophages. Methods shRNA knockout, confocal and electron microscopy and biochemical analysis were used to investigate the roles of β-COP in apolipoprotein-mediated cholesterol efflux in fibroblasts and THP-1 macrophages. Results We showed that β-COP knockdown by lentiviral shRNA resulted in reduced apoA-1-mediated cholesterol efflux, while increased cholesterol accumulation and formation of larger vesicles were observed in THP-1 macrophages by laser scanning confocal microscopy. Immunogold electron microscopy showed that β-COP appeared on the membrane protrusion complexes and colocalized with apoA-1 or apoE during cholesterol efflux. This was associated with releasing heterogeneous sizes of small particles into the culture media of THP-1 macrophage. Western blotting also showed that apoA-1 promotes β-COP translocation to the cell membrane and secretion into culture media, in which a total of 17 proteins were identified by proteomics. Moreover, β-COP exclusively associated with human plasma HDL fractions. Conclusion ApoA-1 and apoE promoted transport vesicles consisting of β-COP and other candidate proteins to exocytose cholesterol, forming the protrusion complexes on cell surface, which were then released from the cell membrane as small particles to media. PMID:26986486

Copolymer-1 enhances cognitive performance in young adult rats

PubMed Central

Meneses, Alfredo; Cruz-Martínez, Yolanda; Anaya-Jiménez, Rosa María; Liy-Salmerón, Gustavo; Carvajal, Horacio Guillermo; Ponce-López, Maria Teresa

2018-01-01

Cognitive impairment is a dysfunction observed as a sequel of various neurodegenerative diseases, as well as a concomitant element in the elderly stages of life. In clinical settings, this malfunction is identified as mild cognitive impairment. Previous studies have suggested that cognitive impairment could be the result of a reduction in the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and/or immune dysfunction. Copolymer-1 (Cop-1) is an FDA-approved synthetic peptide capable of inducing the activation of Th2/3 cells, which are able to release BDNF, as well as to migrate and accumulate in the brain. In this study, we evaluated the effect of Cop-1 immunization on improvement of cognition in adult rats. For this purpose, we performed four experiments. We evaluated the effect of Cop-1 immunization on learning/memory using the Morris water maze for spatial memory and autoshaping for associative memory in 3- or 6-month-old rats. BDNF concentrations at the hippocampus were determined by ELISA. Cop-1 immunization induced a significant improvement of spatial memory and associative memory in 6-month-old rats. Likewise, Cop-1 improved spatial memory and associative memory when animals were immunized at 3 months and evaluated at 6 months old. Additionally, Cop-1 induced a significant increase in BDNF levels at the hippocampus. To our knowledge, the present investigation reports the first instance of Cop-1 treatment enhancing cognitive function in normal young adult rats, suggesting that Cop-1 may be a practical therapeutic strategy potentially useful for age- or disease-related cognitive impairment. PMID:29494605

78 FR 64979 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Revision of a Previously Approved Collection, with...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-30

... Collection, with Change; Comments Requested: COPS Progress Report ACTION: 60-Day Notice. The Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) will be submitting the following...; comments requested. (2) Title of the Form/Collection: COPS Progress Report. (3) Agency form number, if any...

76 FR 10064 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Extension of a Previously Approved Collection; Comments...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-23

... Collection Under Review: COPS Progress Report. The Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) will be submitting the following information collection request to the Office of... Form/Collection: COPS Progress Report. (3) Agency form number, if any, and the applicable component of...

CoPs Facing Rationalization: The Politics of Community Reproduction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kilskar, Stine Skaufel; Ingvaldsen, Jonas A.; Valle, Nina

2018-01-01

Purpose: This paper aims to explore the relationship between the contemporary forms of manufacturing rationalization and the reproduction of communities of practice (CoPs) centred on tasks and craft. Building on critical literature highlighting the tensions between CoPs and rationalization, this paper aims to develop a nuanced account of how CoPs…

School-Based Partnerships: A Problem-Solving Strategy. COPS Innovations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Uchida, Craig D.; Solomon, Shellie; Katz, Charles M.; Pappas, Cynthia E.

2006-01-01

The Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Office funded the School-Based Partnerships (SBP) grant program for the purpose of partnering law enforcement agencies with schools to address crime and disorder problems in and around middle and high schools. In Fiscal Years 1998 and 1999, the COPS Office awarded 275 law enforcement agencies more…

Extrasynaptic Glutamate Receptor Activation as Cellular Bases for Dynamic Range Compression in Pyramidal Neurons

PubMed Central

Oikonomou, Katerina D.; Short, Shaina M.; Rich, Matthew T.; Antic, Srdjan D.

2012-01-01

Repetitive synaptic stimulation overcomes the ability of astrocytic processes to clear glutamate from the extracellular space, allowing some dendritic segments to become submerged in a pool of glutamate, for a brief period of time. This dynamic arrangement activates extrasynaptic NMDA receptors located on dendritic shafts. We used voltage-sensitive and calcium-sensitive dyes to probe dendritic function in this glutamate-rich location. An excess of glutamate in the extrasynaptic space was achieved either by repetitive synaptic stimulation or by glutamate iontophoresis onto the dendrites of pyramidal neurons. Two successive activations of synaptic inputs produced a typical NMDA spike, whereas five successive synaptic inputs produced characteristic plateau potentials, reminiscent of cortical UP states. While NMDA spikes were coupled with brief calcium transients highly restricted to the glutamate input site, the dendritic plateau potentials were accompanied by calcium influx along the entire dendritic branch. Once initiated, the glutamate-mediated dendritic plateau potentials could not be interrupted by negative voltage pulses. Activation of extrasynaptic NMDA receptors in cellular compartments void of spines is sufficient to initiate and support plateau potentials. The only requirement for sustained depolarizing events is a surplus of free glutamate near a group of extrasynaptic receptors. Highly non-linear dendritic spikes (plateau potentials) are summed in a highly sublinear fashion at the soma, revealing the cellular bases of signal compression in cortical circuits. Extrasynaptic NMDA receptors provide pyramidal neurons with a function analogous to a dynamic range compression in audio engineering. They limit or reduce the volume of “loud sounds” (i.e., strong glutamatergic inputs) and amplify “quiet sounds” (i.e., glutamatergic inputs that barely cross the dendritic threshold for local spike initiation). Our data also explain why consecutive cortical UP states have uniform amplitudes in a given neuron. PMID:22934081

The dependence of carbide morphology on grain boundary character in the highly twinned Alloy 690

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Hui; Xia, Shuang; Zhou, Bangxin; Chen, Wenjue; Hu, Changliang

2010-04-01

The dependence of morphology of grain boundary carbides on grain boundary character in Alloy 690 (Ni-30Cr-10Fe, mass fraction, %) with high fraction of low Σ coincidence site lattice (CSL) grain boundaries was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Some of the surface grains were removed by means of deep etching. It was observed that carbides grow dendritically at grain boundaries. The carbide bars observed near incoherent twin boundaries and twin related Σ9 grain boundaries are actually secondary dendrites of the carbides on these boundaries. Higher order dendrites could be observed on random grain boundaries, however, no bar-like dendrites were observed near Σ27 grain boundaries and random grain boundaries. The morphology difference of carbides precipitated at grain boundaries with different characters is discussed based on the experimental results in this paper.

Development of a glycoconjugate vaccine to prevent invasive Salmonella Typhimurium infections in sub-Saharan Africa

PubMed Central

Baliban, Scott M.; Yang, Mingjun; Ramachandran, Girish; Curtis, Brittany; Shridhar, Surekha; Laufer, Rachel S.; Wang, Jin Y.; Van Druff, John; Higginson, Ellen E.; Hegerle, Nicolas; Varney, Kristen M.; Galen, James E.; Tennant, Sharon M.; Lees, Andrew; MacKerell, Alexander D.; Levine, Myron M.; Simon, Raphael

2017-01-01

Invasive infections associated with non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) serovars Enteritidis (SE), Typhimurium (STm) and monophasic variant 1,4,[5],12:i:- are a major health problem in infants and young children in sub-Saharan Africa, and currently, there are no approved human NTS vaccines. NTS O-polysaccharides and flagellin proteins are protective antigens in animal models of invasive NTS infection. Conjugates of SE core and O-polysaccharide (COPS) chemically linked to SE flagellin have enhanced the anti-COPS immune response and protected mice against fatal challenge with a Malian SE blood isolate. We report herein the development of a STm glycoconjugate vaccine comprised of STm COPS conjugated to the homologous serovar phase 1 flagellin protein (FliC) with assessment of the role of COPS O-acetyls for functional immunity. Sun-type COPS conjugates linked through the polysaccharide reducing end to FliC were more immunogenic and protective in mice challenged with a Malian STm blood isolate than multipoint lattice conjugates (>95% vaccine efficacy [VE] versus 30–43% VE). Immunization with de-O-acetylated STm-COPS conjugated to CRM197 provided significant but reduced protection against STm challenge compared to mice immunized with native STm-COPS:CRM197 (63–74% VE versus 100% VE). Although OPS O-acetyls were highly immunogenic, post-vaccination sera that contained various O-acetyl epitope-specific antibody profiles displayed similar in vitro bactericidal activity when equivalent titers of anti-COPS IgG were assayed. In-silico molecular modeling further indicated that STm OPS forms a single dominant conformation, irrespective of O-acetylation, in which O-acetyls extend outward and are highly solvent exposed. These preclinical results establish important quality attributes for an STm vaccine that could be co-formulated with an SE-COPS:FliC glycoconjugate as a bivalent NTS vaccine for use in sub-Saharan Africa. PMID:28388624

Exploratory behavior during stance persists with visual feedback.

PubMed

Murnaghan, C D; Horslen, B C; Inglis, J T; Carpenter, M G

2011-11-10

Recent evidence showing center of pressure (COP) displacements increase following an external stabilization of the center of mass (COM) supports the theory that postural sway may be exploratory and serve as a means of acquiring sensory information. The aim of the current study was to further test this theory and rule out potential confounding effects of sensory illusions or motor drift on prior observations. Participants stood as still as possible in an apparatus which allowed movements of the COM to be stabilized ("locked") without subject awareness, and they were provided real-time visual feedback of their COM or COP throughout the trial. If there was an influence of sensory illusions or motor drift, we hypothesized that the change in COP displacement with locking would be reduced when participants were provided visual confirmation of COM stabilization (COM feedback), or when they were aware of the position of the COP throughout the trial (COP feedback). Confirming our previous results, increases in COP displacement were observed when movements of the COM were stabilized. In addition, our results showed that increases in COP displacement could not be explained by the presence of sensory illusions or motor drift, since increases in COP were observed despite being provided convincing evidence that the COM had been stabilized, and when participants were aware of their COP position throughout the trial. These results provide further support for an exploratory role of postural sway. The theoretical basis of current clinical practices designed to deal with balance control deficits due to age or disease is typically based on the opinion that increases in sway are a consequence of a failing balance control system. Our results suggest that this may not be the case, and if sway is in fact exploratory, a serious re-evaluation of current clinical practices may be warranted. Copyright © 2011 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An explorative investigation of functional differences in plantar center of pressure of four foot types using sample entropy method.

PubMed

Mei, Zhanyong; Ivanov, Kamen; Zhao, Guoru; Li, Huihui; Wang, Lei

2017-04-01

In the study of biomechanics of different foot types, temporal or spatial parameters derived from plantar pressure are often used. However, there is no comparative study of complexity and regularity of the center of pressure (CoP) during the stance phase among pes valgus, pes cavus, hallux valgus and normal foot. We aim to analyze whether CoP sample entropy characteristics differ among these four foot types. In our experiment participated 40 subjects with normal feet, 40 with pes cavus, 19 with pes valgus and 36 with hallux valgus. A Footscan ® system was used to collect CoP data. We used sample entropy to quantify several parameters of the investigated four foot types. These are the displacement in medial-lateral (M/L) and anterior-posterior (A/P) directions, as well as the vertical ground reaction force of CoP during the stance phase. To fully examine the potential of the sample entropy method for quantification of CoP components, we provide results for two cases: calculating the sample entropy of normalized CoP components, as well as calculating it using the raw data of CoP components. We also explored what are the optimal values of parameters m (the matching length) and r (the tolerance range) when calculating the sample entropy of CoP data obtained during the stance phases. According to statistical results, some factors significantly influenced the sample entropy of CoP components. The sample entropies of non-normalized A/P values for the left foot, as well as for the right foot, were different between the normal foot and pes valgus, and between the normal foot and hallux valgus. The sample entropy of normalized M/L displacement of the right foot was different between the normal foot and pes cavus. The measured variable for A/P and M/L displacements could serve for the study of foot function.

A castor oil-containing dental luting agent: effects of cyclic loading and storage time on flexural strength

PubMed Central

DERCELI, Juliana dos Reis; FAIS, Laiza Maria Grassi; PINELLI, Lígia Antunes Pereira

2014-01-01

Favorable results in the use of castor oil polyurethane (COP) as pulp capping, membrane material, sealer, mouthwash and in bone repair, associated with the fact that Ricinus communis is not derived from petroleum and it is abundant in Brazil, encourage researches in the development of luting agents. Objectives This study compared the flexural strength (FS) of a castor oil-containing dental luting agent with a weight percentage of 10% (wt%) of calcium carbonate (COP10) with RelyX ARC (RX) after mechanical cycling (MC) and distilled water storage. Material and Methods Sixty-four specimens (25x2x2 mm) were fabricated and divided into two groups, COP10 and RX (control). Each group was divided into 4 subgroups (n=8) according to the storage time, 24 hours (24 h) or 60 days (60 d), and the performance (MC+FS) or not (only FS) of the mechanical cycling test. The FS (10 kN; 0.5 mm/min) and MC tests (10,000 cycles, 5 Hz, 0.5 mm/min) were carried out using an MTS-810 machine. The data were analyzed using ANOVA (α=0.05). Results The obtained FS (MPa) values were: COP10 24h- 19.04±2.41; COP10 60d- 17.92±3.54; RX 24h- 75.19±3.43; RX 60d- 88.77±6.89. All the RX specimens submitted to MC fractured, while the values for COP10 after MC were as follows: COP10 24h- 17.90±1.87 and COP10 60d- 18.60±1.60. Conclusions A castor oil-containing dental luting agent with a weight percentage of 10% (wt%) of calcium carbonate is resistant to mechanical cycling without decreases in flexural strength. However, mean COP10 showed only about 25% of the RelyX ARC mean flexural strength. PMID:25591018

Development of a glycoconjugate vaccine to prevent invasive Salmonella Typhimurium infections in sub-Saharan Africa.

PubMed

Baliban, Scott M; Yang, Mingjun; Ramachandran, Girish; Curtis, Brittany; Shridhar, Surekha; Laufer, Rachel S; Wang, Jin Y; Van Druff, John; Higginson, Ellen E; Hegerle, Nicolas; Varney, Kristen M; Galen, James E; Tennant, Sharon M; Lees, Andrew; MacKerell, Alexander D; Levine, Myron M; Simon, Raphael

2017-04-01

Invasive infections associated with non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) serovars Enteritidis (SE), Typhimurium (STm) and monophasic variant 1,4,[5],12:i:- are a major health problem in infants and young children in sub-Saharan Africa, and currently, there are no approved human NTS vaccines. NTS O-polysaccharides and flagellin proteins are protective antigens in animal models of invasive NTS infection. Conjugates of SE core and O-polysaccharide (COPS) chemically linked to SE flagellin have enhanced the anti-COPS immune response and protected mice against fatal challenge with a Malian SE blood isolate. We report herein the development of a STm glycoconjugate vaccine comprised of STm COPS conjugated to the homologous serovar phase 1 flagellin protein (FliC) with assessment of the role of COPS O-acetyls for functional immunity. Sun-type COPS conjugates linked through the polysaccharide reducing end to FliC were more immunogenic and protective in mice challenged with a Malian STm blood isolate than multipoint lattice conjugates (>95% vaccine efficacy [VE] versus 30-43% VE). Immunization with de-O-acetylated STm-COPS conjugated to CRM197 provided significant but reduced protection against STm challenge compared to mice immunized with native STm-COPS:CRM197 (63-74% VE versus 100% VE). Although OPS O-acetyls were highly immunogenic, post-vaccination sera that contained various O-acetyl epitope-specific antibody profiles displayed similar in vitro bactericidal activity when equivalent titers of anti-COPS IgG were assayed. In-silico molecular modeling further indicated that STm OPS forms a single dominant conformation, irrespective of O-acetylation, in which O-acetyls extend outward and are highly solvent exposed. These preclinical results establish important quality attributes for an STm vaccine that could be co-formulated with an SE-COPS:FliC glycoconjugate as a bivalent NTS vaccine for use in sub-Saharan Africa.

Introducing a multimedia course to enhance health professionals' skills to facilitate communities of practice.

PubMed

Jakubec, Sonya L; Parboosingh, John; Colvin, Barbara

2014-01-01

Scholarship about communities of practice (COP) is uncovering evidence that interactivity between community members contributes to improvement in practice. Leadership and facilitation are crucial elements of successful COP implementation. The purpose of this paper is to describe an innovative COP facilitator's course and report on the experiences of participants in the first course. In response to this need and emerging evidence, an on-line COP facilitator's course was developed and implemented in Alberta, Canada, in 2011. This course included a home-based COP practicum, introductory face-to-face session, an on-line discussion board moderated by faculty and on-line learning modules. Evaluation of the course was formalized in a qualitative study incorporating content analysis of postings, semi-structured interviews of successful participants and narrative responses to questions in a post course survey. A total of 15 of 22 participants perceived they acquired basic knowledge about community facilitation by completing the self-learning modules and assignments. Many did not establish home-based COP and only partially participated in the interactive components of the course. Six participants successfully completed the course by establishing home-based COP and actively participating in the social and interactive components of the course. They perceived they met course objectives and greatly benefited from participation in the course, in particular when they pushed themselves to facilitate in new and different ways, and when they were actively engaged with their home-based COP where they could practice and receive feedback. While the main reasons why participants dropped out or failed to complete all course components were reported, the experiences and perceptions of six participants who successfully completed all course components form the major part of the evaluation of the course and hence introduce bias. A more in depth analysis of why learners are reluctant to engage in participatory learning could be the focus of further studies. The following key recommendations emerged in the study alongside recommendations for further study of best practices in supporting COP facilitation. First, a formal interview before enrollment into the COP facilitator's course is recommended to reinforce the comprehensiveness, time commitment and the practical applications intended within the course. Second, methods of "aggressive facilitation" with skilled COP facilitators can best model facilitation to those involved in the course. Third, supporting course participants to trial out a diversity of community facilitation skills in the safety of the course is crucial to success. The collaboration, networking and interactivity of interdisciplinary health care workers is of tremendous consequence to health outcomes and a vital concern to practitioners and administrators. Little is currently understood of the leadership and facilitation of the COP models and these discoveries lend a timely contribution to the field.

Δ9-THC-caused synaptic and memory impairments are mediated through COX-2 signaling

PubMed Central

Yang, Hongwei; Tang, Ya-ping; Sun, Hao; Song, Yunping; Chen, Chu

2013-01-01

SUMMARY Marijuana has been used for thousands of years as a treatment for medical conditions. However, untoward side effects limit its medical value. Here we show that synaptic and cognitive impairments following repeated exposure to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) are associated with the induction of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), an inducible enzyme that converts arachidonic acid to prostanoids, in the brain. COX-2 induction by Δ9-THC is mediated via CB1 receptor-coupled G-protein βγ subunits. Pharmacological or genetic inhibition of COX-2 blocks down-regulation and internalization of glutamate receptor subunits and alterations of the dendritic spine density of hippocampal neurons induced by repeated Δ9-THC exposures. Ablation of COX-2 also eliminates Δ9-THC-impaired hippocampal long-term synaptic plasticity, spatial, and fear memories. Importantly, the beneficial effects of decreasing β-amyloid plaques and neurodegeneration by Δ9-THC in Alzheimer’s disease animals are retained in the presence of COX-2 inhibition. These results suggest that the applicability of medical marijuana would be broadened by concurrent inhibition of COX-2. PMID:24267894

Dendritic polyelectrolytes as seen by the Poisson-Boltzmann-Flory theory.

PubMed

Kłos, J S; Milewski, J

2018-06-20

G3-G9 dendritic polyelectrolytes accompanied by counterions are investigated using the Poisson-Boltzmann-Flory theory. Within this approach we solve numerically the Poisson-Boltzmann equation for the mean electrostatic potential and minimize the Poisson-Boltzmann-Flory free energy with respect to the size of the molecules. Such a scheme enables us to inspect the conformational and electrostatic properties of the dendrimers in equilibrium based on their response to varying the dendrimer generation. The calculations indicate that the G3-G6 dendrimers exist in the polyelectrolyte regime where absorption of counterions into the volume of the molecules is minor. Trapping of ions in the interior region becomes significant for the G7-G9 dendrimers and signals the emergence of the osmotic regime. We find that the behavior of the dendritic polyelectrolytes corresponds with the degree of ion trapping. In particular, in both regimes the polyelectrolytes are swollen as compared to their neutral counterparts and the expansion factor is maximal at the crossover generation G7.

Rehabilitation living lab in the mall community of practice: learning together to improve rehabilitation, participation and social inclusion for people living with disabilities.

PubMed

Mazer, Barbara; Kairy, Dahlia; Guindon, Andréanne; Girard, Michel; Swaine, Bonnie; Kehayia, Eva; Labbé, Delphine

2015-04-22

Communities of practice (CoP) can facilitate collaboration between people who share a common interest, but do not usually work together. A CoP was initiated and developed including stakeholders from clinical, research, community and governmental backgrounds involved in a large multidisciplinary and multi-sectorial project: the Rehabilitation Living Lab in a Mall (RehabMaLL). This study aimed to evaluate the structure, process and outcomes of this CoP. A single case-study, using mixed-methods, evaluated the RehabMaLL CoP initiative after one year, based on Donabedian's conceptual evaluation model. Forty-three participants took part in the RehabMaLL CoP with 60.5% (n = 26) participating at least once on the online platform where 234 comments were posted. Four in-person meetings were held. Members expressed satisfaction regarding the opportunity to share knowledge with people from diverse backgrounds and the usefulness of the CoP for the RehabMaLL project. Collaboration led to concrete outcomes, such as a sensitization activity and a research project. Common challenges included lack of time and difficulty finding common objectives. A CoP can be a useful strategy to facilitate knowledge sharing on disability issues. Future research is necessary to determine strategies of increasing knowledge creation between members.

A horizontally gene transferred copper resistance locus confers hyper‐resistance to antibacterial copper toxicity and enables survival of community acquired methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus USA300 in macrophages

PubMed Central

Purves, Joanne; Thomas, Jamie; Riboldi, Gustavo P.; Zapotoczna, Marta; Tarrant, Emma; Andrew, Peter W.; Londoño, Alejandra; Planet, Paul J.; Geoghegan, Joan A.; Waldron, Kevin J.

2018-01-01

Summary Excess copper is highly toxic and forms part of the host innate immune system's antibacterial arsenal, accumulating at sites of infection and acting within macrophages to kill engulfed pathogens. We show for the first time that a novel, horizontally gene transferred copper resistance locus (copXL), uniquely associated with the SCCmec elements of the highly virulent, epidemic, community acquired methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA‐MRSA) USA300, confers copper hyper‐resistance. These genes are additional to existing core genome copper resistance mechanisms, and are not found in typical S. aureus lineages, but are increasingly identified in emerging pathogenic isolates. Our data show that CopX, a putative P1B‐3‐ATPase efflux transporter, and CopL, a novel lipoprotein, confer copper hyper‐resistance compared to typical S. aureus strains. The copXL genes form an operon that is tightly repressed in low copper environments by the copper regulator CsoR. Significantly, CopX and CopL are important for S. aureus USA300 intracellular survival within macrophages. Therefore, the emergence of new S. aureus clones with the copXL locus has significant implications for public health because these genes confer increased resistance to antibacterial copper toxicity, enhancing bacterial fitness by altering S. aureus interaction with innate immunity. PMID:29521441

Acute Positive Effects of Exercise on Center-of-Pressure Fluctuations During Quiet Standing in Middle-Aged and Elderly Women.

PubMed

Fukusaki, Chiho; Masani, Kei; Miyasaka, Maya; Nakazawa, Kimitaka

2016-01-01

Acute effects of exercise on postural stability have been studied with a focus on fatigue. This study investigated the acute effects of moderate-intensity exercise on center-of-pressure (COP) fluctuation measures in middle-aged and elderly women. Thirty-five healthy women volunteered: 18 women performed a moderate aquatic exercise session for 80 minutes and 17 remained calm in a sitting position for the same duration. Center-of-pressure fluctuations during quiet standing were recorded for 60 seconds with eyes open and closed before and after the exercise and sitting tasks. The time- and frequency-domain measures of the COP time series were calculated. The frequency-domain measures were also calculated for the COP velocity time series. According to 2-way analysis of variance and paired t-tests with a Bonferroni's correction, mean velocity of COP fluctuations, mean velocity of COP fluctuations in the medial-lateral (ML) direction, and total power of the COP velocity time series in the ML direction exhibited significant reductions after 1 session of exercise. These results indicated that a moderate-intensity aquatic exercise decreased COP velocity, counteracting age-related and fatigue-inducing postural deterioration. Therefore, we concluded that a single session of moderate-intensity aquatic exercise has acute positive effects on postural stability in middle-aged and elderly women.

Pneumonia risk stratification in tropical Australia: does the SMART-COP score apply?

PubMed

Davis, Joshua S; Cross, Gail B; Charles, Patrick G P; Currie, Bart J; Anstey, Nicholas M; Cheng, Allen C

2010-02-01

To examine the performance in tropical northern Australia of SMART-COP, a simple scoring system developed in temperate Australia to predict the need for intensive respiratory or vasopressor support (IRVS) in pneumonia patients. A prospective observational study of patients admitted to Royal Darwin Hospital in the Northern Territory with sepsis between August 2007 and May 2008. Chest x-rays were reviewed to confirm pneumonia, and each patient's SMART-COP score was assessed against the need for IRVS. Of 206 patients presenting with radiologically confirmed pneumonia, 184 were eligible for inclusion. The mean age of patients was 50.1 years, 65% were Indigenous and 56% were men. Overall, 38 patients (21%) required IRVS, and 18 patients (10%) died by Day 30. A SMART-COP score of >or= 3 had a sensitivity of only 71% for predicting the need for IRVS and 67% for 30-day mortality. As the variables most strongly associated with IRVS were serum albumin level < 35 g/L (odds ratio, 6.8) and Indigenous status (odds ratio, 2.3), we tested a modified scoring system (SMART-COP) that used a higher weighting for albumin and included Indigenous status. A SMART-COP score of >or= 3 had a sensitivity of 97% for IRVS and 100% for 30-day mortality. The SMART-COP score underestimates the severity of pneumonia in tropical northern Australia, but can be improved by using locally relevant additions.

Co3O4/CoP composite hollow polyhedron: A superior catalyst with dramatic efficiency and stability for the room temperature reduction of 4-nitrophenol

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Xing; Li, Xiangqing; Qin, Lixia; Mu, Jin; Kang, Shi-Zhao

2018-03-01

In the present work, Co3O4/CoP composite hollow polyhedrons were prepared and characterized with X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms. Then, the catalytic activity of the as-prepared Co3O4/CoP hollow polyhedrons was evaluated for the borohydride-assisted reduction of 4-nitrophenol at room temperature. The results indicate that the as-prepared Co3O4/CoP hollow polyhedrons are an efficient recyclable catalyst for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol. When the 4-nitrophenol initial concentration is 1.0 × 10-4 mol L-1 (100 mL), almost 100% 4-nitrophenol can be reduced within 3 min in the presence of the Co3O4/CoP hollow polyhedrons. The apparent rate constant of the 4-nitrophenol reduction is 1.61 min-1 at room temperature, and the activity factor is about 5.37 × 104 mL min-1 g-1, which is almost two times higher than that over Ag nanoparticles. Finally, the catalytic mechanism was preliminarily discussed. It is found that CoP plays an important role in the catalytic process. Here, CoP serves as active sites, which leads to efficient formation of hydrogen atoms from BH4- and fast electron transfer.

Rehabilitation Living Lab in the Mall Community of Practice: Learning Together to Improve Rehabilitation, Participation and Social Inclusion for People Living with Disabilities

PubMed Central

Mazer, Barbara; Kairy, Dahlia; Guindon, Andréanne; Girard, Michel; Swaine, Bonnie; Kehayia, Eva; Labbé, Delphine

2015-01-01

Communities of practice (CoP) can facilitate collaboration between people who share a common interest, but do not usually work together. A CoP was initiated and developed including stakeholders from clinical, research, community and governmental backgrounds involved in a large multidisciplinary and multi-sectorial project: the Rehabilitation Living Lab in a Mall (RehabMaLL). This study aimed to evaluate the structure, process and outcomes of this CoP. A single case-study, using mixed-methods, evaluated the RehabMaLL CoP initiative after one year, based on Donabedian’s conceptual evaluation model. Forty-three participants took part in the RehabMaLL CoP with 60.5% (n = 26) participating at least once on the online platform where 234 comments were posted. Four in-person meetings were held. Members expressed satisfaction regarding the opportunity to share knowledge with people from diverse backgrounds and the usefulness of the CoP for the RehabMaLL project. Collaboration led to concrete outcomes, such as a sensitization activity and a research project. Common challenges included lack of time and difficulty finding common objectives. A CoP can be a useful strategy to facilitate knowledge sharing on disability issues. Future research is necessary to determine strategies of increasing knowledge creation between members. PMID:25913187

Monodispersepoly[BMA-co-(COPS-I)] Particles by Soap-Free Emulsion Copolymerization and Its Optical Properties as Photonic Crystals.

PubMed

Lee, Ki Chang; Choo, Hun Seung

2015-10-01

In order to study the surfactant-free emulsion copolymerization of benzyl methacrylate (BMA) with sodium 1-allyloxy-2-hydroxypropane sulfonate (COPS-I) and the resulting optical properties, a series of experiments was carried out at various reaction conditions such as the changes of BMA concentration, COPS-I concentration, BMA concentration under a fixed COPS-I amount, initiator and divinyl benzene (DVB) concentration. All the latices showed highly monodispersed spherical particles in the size range of 144~435 nm and the respective shiny structural colors from their colloidal photonic crystals. It is found that the changes in such polymerization factors greatly affect the number of particles and particle diameter, polymerization rate, molecular weight, zeta-potential, and refractive indices. The increase of number of particles led to the increased rate of polymerization and zeta-potential of the latices, on the other hand, to the decreased molecular weight. Refractive indices and the reflectivity increased with COPS-I concentration, on the other hand, and decreased with DVB concentration. Especially, refractive indices of the resulting poly[BMA-co-(COPS-I)] colloidal photonic crystals showed much higher values of 1.65~2.21 than that of polystyrene, due to the formation of core-shell shaped morphology. Monodisperse and high refractive index of poly[BMA-co-(COPS-I)] particles prepared in this work could be used for the study in photonic crystals and electrophoretic display.

Effect of Initial Iron Content in a Zinc Bath on the Dissolution Rate of Iron During a Hot Dip Galvanizing Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Sang Myung; Lee, Suk Kyu; Paik, Doo-Jin; Park, Joo Hyun

2017-04-01

The mechanism of iron dissolution and the effect of initial Fe content in a Zn bath on the dissolution rate of iron were investigated using a finger rotating method (FRM). When the initial iron content, [Fe]°, in the zinc bath was less than the solubility limit, the iron content in the zinc bath showed a rapid increase, whereas a moderate increase was observed when [Fe]° was close to the solubility limit. Based on Eisenberg's kinetic model, the mass transfer coefficient of iron in the present experimental condition was calculated to be k M = 1.2 × 10-5 m/s, which was similar to the results derived by Giorgi et al. under industrial practice conditions. A dissolution of iron occurred even when the initial iron content in the zinc bath was greater than the solubility limit, which was explained by the interfacial thermodynamics in conjunction with the morphology of the surface coating layer. By analyzing the diffraction patterns using TEM, the outermost dendritic-structured coating layer was confirmed as FeZn13 ( ζ). In order to satisfy the local equilibrium based on the Gibbs-Thomson equation, iron in the dendrite-structured phase spontaneously dissolved into the zinc bath, resulting in the enrichment of iron in front of the dendrite tip. Through the diffusion boundary layer in front of the dendritic-structured layer, dissolved Fe atoms diffused out and reacted with Zn and small amounts of Al, resulting in the formation of dross particles such as FeZn10Al x ( δ). It was experimentally confirmed that the smaller the difference between the initial iron content in the zinc bath and the iron solubility limit at a given temperature, the lower the number of formed dross particles.

The magnetic properties and structure of the quasi-two-dimensional antiferromagnet CoPS3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wildes, A. R.; Simonet, V.; Ressouche, E.; Ballou, R.; McIntyre, G. J.

2017-11-01

The magnetic properties and magnetic structure are presented for CoPS3, a quasi-two-dimensional antiferromagnet on a honeycomb lattice with a Néel temperature of TN ∼120 K. The compound is shown to have XY-like anisotropy in its susceptibility, and the anisotropy is analysed to extract crystal field parameters. For temperatures between 2 K and 300 K, no phase transitions were observed in the field-dependent magnetization up to 10 Tesla. Single-crystal neutron diffraction shows that the magnetic propagation vector is k  =  (0 1 0) with the moments mostly along the {a} axis and with a small component along the {c} axis, which largely verifies the previously-published magnetic structure for this compound. The magnetic Bragg peak intensity decreases with increasing temperature as a power law with exponent 2β = 0.60 +/- 0.01 for T > 0.9~TN .

The genomic landscape of human cellular circadian variation points to a novel role for the signalosome

PubMed Central

Gaspar, Ludmila; Howald, Cedric; Popadin, Konstantin; Maier, Bert; Mauvoisin, Daniel; Moriggi, Ermanno; Gutierrez-Arcelus, Maria; Falconnet, Emilie; Borel, Christelle; Kunz, Dieter; Kramer, Achim; Gachon, Frederic; Dermitzakis, Emmanouil T; Antonarakis, Stylianos E

2017-01-01

The importance of natural gene expression variation for human behavior is undisputed, but its impact on circadian physiology remains mostly unexplored. Using umbilical cord fibroblasts, we have determined by genome-wide association how common genetic variation impacts upon cellular circadian function. Gene set enrichment points to differences in protein catabolism as one major source of clock variation in humans. The two most significant alleles regulated expression of COPS7B, a subunit of the COP9 signalosome. We further show that the signalosome complex is imported into the nucleus in timed fashion to stabilize the essential circadian protein BMAL1, a novel mechanism to oppose its proteasome-mediated degradation. Thus, circadian clock properties depend in part upon a genetically-encoded competition between stabilizing and destabilizing forces, and genetic alterations in these mechanisms provide one explanation for human chronotype. PMID:28869038

Haptic-based perception-empathy biofeedback system for balance rehabilitation in patients with chronic stroke: Concepts and initial feasibility study.

PubMed

Yasuda, Kazuhiro; Saichi, Kenta; Kaibuki, Naomi; Harashima, Hiroaki; Iwata, Hiroyasu

2018-05-01

Most individuals have sensory disturbances post stroke, and these deficits contribute to post-stroke balance impairment. The haptic-based biofeedback (BF) system appears to be one of the promising tools for balance rehabilitation in patients with stroke, and the BF system can increase the objectivity of feedback and encouragement than that provided by a therapist. Studies in skill science indicated that feedback or encouragement from a coach or trainer enhances motor learning effect. Nevertheless, the optimal BF system (or its concept) which would refine the interpersonal feedback between patients and therapist has not been proposed. Thus, the purpose of this study was to propose a haptic-based perception-empathy BF system which provides information regarding the patient's center-of-foot pressure (CoP) pattern to the patient and the physical therapist to enhance the motor learning effect and validate the feasibility of this balance-training regimen in patients with chronic stroke. This study used a pre-post design without control group. Nine chronic stroke patients (mean age: 64.4 ± 9.2 years) received a balance-training regimen using this BF system twice a week for 4 weeks. Testing comprised quantitative measures (i.e., CoP) and clinical balance scale (Berg Balance Scale, BBS; Functional Reach Test, FRT; and Timed-Up and Go test, TUG). Post training, patients demonstrated marginally reduced postural spatial variability (i.e., 95% confidence elliptical area), and clinical balance performance significantly improved at post-training. Although the changes in FRT and TUG exceeded the minimal detectable change (MDC), changes in BBS did not reach clinical significance (i.e., smaller than MDC). These results may provide initial knowledge (i.e., beneficial effects, utility and its limitation) of the proposed BF system in designing effective motor learning strategies for stroke rehabilitation. More studies are required addressing limitations due to research design and training method for future clinical use. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Economic impact of expanded use of biologic therapy for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico.

PubMed

Tundia, Namita; Kotze, Paulo Gustavo; Rojas Serrano, Jorge; Mendes de Abreu, Mirhelen; Skup, Martha; Macaulay, Dendy; Signorovitch, James; Chaves, Leonardo; Chao, Jingdong; Bao, Yanjun

2016-12-01

To estimate economic impact resulting from increased biologics use for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and Crohn's disease (CD) in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico. The influence of increasing biologics use for treatment of RA during 2012-2022 and for treatment of CD during 2013-2023 was modeled from a societal perspective. The economic model incorporated current and projected medical, indirect, and drug costs and epidemiologic and economic factors. Costs associated with expanded biologics use for RA were compared with non-expanded use in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico. A similar analysis was conducted for CD in Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico. Accounting for additional costs of biologics and medical and indirect cost offsets, the model predicts that expanded use of biologics for patients with RA from 2012 to 2022 will result in cumulative net cost savings of ARS$2.351 billion in Argentina, R$9.004 billion in Brazil, COP$728.577 billion in Colombia, and MXN$18.02 billion in Mexico; expanded use of biologics for patients with CD from 2013 to 2023 will result in cumulative net cost savings for patients with CD of R$0.082 billion in Brazil, COP$502.74 billion in Colombia, and MXN$1.80 billion in Mexico. Indirect cost offsets associated with expanded biologics use were a key driver in reducing annual per-patient net costs for RA and CD. Future economic projections are limited by the potential variance between projected and actual future values of biologic prices, wages, medical costs, and gross national product for each country. Increasing biologics use to treat RA and CD may limit cost growth over time by reducing medical and indirect costs. These findings may inform policy decisions regarding biologics use in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico.

30 CFR 285.618 - What must I do upon completion of approved site assessment activities?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... expiration of your site assessment term, you timely submit a COP meeting the requirements of this subpart, or... your COP for approval or FERC reviews your license application for approval. (b) You are not required... your approved COP or approved FERC license. (c) If, following the technical and environmental review of...

30 CFR 285.811 - When must I follow my Safety Management System?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Activities Conducted Under SAPs, COPs and GAPs Safety Management Systems § 285.811 When must I follow my... activities described in your approved COP, SAP, or GAP. You must conduct all activities described in your approved COP, SAP, or GAP in accordance with the Safety Management System you described, as required by...

Columbus Outdoor Pursuits: A Model Structure for Volunteer Based Outdoor Pursuits Programs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gerckens, Ann E.

Columbus Outdoor Pursuits (COP) is a volunteer-based nonprofit organization in Ohio that has offered outdoor educational and recreational opportunities to its members for 63 years. COP day and trip programs focus on outdoor activities such as bicycling, kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing. In addition, COP offers classes in the skills required for…

Hierarchical CoP/Ni 5 P 4 /CoP microsheet arrays as a robust pH-universal electrocatalyst for efficient hydrogen generation

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

Mishra, Ishwar Kumar; Zhou, Haiqing; Sun, Jingying

Exceptional Pt-like electrocatalytic activity was achieved in a sandwich-like catalyst of CoP/Ni 5 P 4 /CoP microsheet arrays for pH-universal hydrogen evolution through simply wrapping Ni 5 P 4 nanosheet arrays in CoP nanoparticles.

Hierarchical CoP/Ni 5 P 4 /CoP microsheet arrays as a robust pH-universal electrocatalyst for efficient hydrogen generation

DOE PAGES

Mishra, Ishwar Kumar; Zhou, Haiqing; Sun, Jingying; ...

2018-01-01

Exceptional Pt-like electrocatalytic activity was achieved in a sandwich-like catalyst of CoP/Ni 5 P 4 /CoP microsheet arrays for pH-universal hydrogen evolution through simply wrapping Ni 5 P 4 nanosheet arrays in CoP nanoparticles.

Non-equivalent antigen presenting capabilities of dendritic cells and macrophages in generating brain-infiltrating CD8 + T cell responses.

PubMed

Malo, Courtney S; Huggins, Matthew A; Goddery, Emma N; Tolcher, Heather M A; Renner, Danielle N; Jin, Fang; Hansen, Michael J; Pease, Larry R; Pavelko, Kevin D; Johnson, Aaron J

2018-02-12

The contribution of antigen-presenting cell (APC) types in generating CD8 + T cell responses in the central nervous system (CNS) is not fully defined, limiting the development of vaccines and understanding of immune-mediated neuropathology. Here, we generate a transgenic mouse that enables cell-specific deletion of the H-2Kb MHC class I molecule. By deleting H-2K b on dendritic cells and macrophages, we compare the effect of each APC in three distinct models of neuroinflammation: picornavirus infection, experimental cerebral malaria, and a syngeneic glioma. Dendritic cells and macrophages both activate CD8 + T cell responses in response to these CNS immunological challenges. However, the extent to which each of these APCs contributes to CD8 + T cell priming varies. These findings reveal distinct functions for dendritic cells and macrophages in generating CD8 + T cell responses to neurological disease.

Dendritic Ni(Cu)-polypyrrole hybrid films for a pseudo-capacitor.

PubMed

Choi, Bit Na; Chun, Woo Won; Qian, Aniu; Lee, So Jeong; Chung, Chan-Hwa

2015-11-28

Dendritic Ni(Cu)-polypyrrole hybrid films are fabricated for a pseudo-capacitor in a unique morphology using two simple methods: electro-deposition and electrochemical de-alloying. Three-dimensional structures of porous dendrites are prepared by electro-deposition within the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) at a high cathodic potential; the high-surface-area structure provides sufficient redox reactions between the electrodes and the electrolyte. The dependence of the active-layer thickness on the super-capacitor performance is also investigated, and the 60 μm-thick Ni(Cu)PPy hybrid electrode presents the highest performance of 659.52 F g(-1) at the scan rate of 5 mV s(-1). In the thicker layers, the specific capacitance became smaller due to the diffusion limitation of the ions in an electrolyte. The polypyrrole-hybridization on the porous dendritic Ni(Cu) electrode provides superior specific capacitance and excellent cycling stability due to the improvement in electric conductivity by the addition of conducting polypyrrole in the matrices of the dendritic nano-porous Ni(Cu) layer and the synergistic effect of composite materials.

Hyper-dendritic nanoporous zinc foam anodes

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

Chamoun, Mylad; Hertzberg, Benjamin J.; Gupta, Tanya

The low cost, significant reducing potential, and relative safety of the zinc electrode is a common hope for a reductant in secondary batteries, but it is limited mainly to primary implementation due to shape change. In this work we exploit such shape change for the benefit of static electrodes through the electrodeposition of hyper-dendritic nanoporous zinc foam. Electrodeposition of zinc foam resulted in nanoparticles formed on secondary dendrites in a three-dimensional network with a particle size distribution of 54.1 - 96.0 nm. The nanoporous zinc foam contributed to highly oriented crystals, high surface area and more rapid kinetics in contrastmore » to conventional zinc in alkaline mediums. The anode material presented had a utilization of ~ 88% at full depth-of-discharge at various rates indicating a superb rate-capability. The rechargeability of Zn⁰/Zn²⁺ showed significant capacity retention over 100 cycles at a 40% depth-of-discharge to ensure that the dendritic core structure was imperforated. The dendritic architecture was densified upon charge-discharge cycling and presented superior performance compared to bulk zinc electrodes.« less

Hyper-dendritic nanoporous zinc foam anodes

DOE PAGES

Chamoun, Mylad; Hertzberg, Benjamin J.; Gupta, Tanya; ...

2015-04-24

The low cost, significant reducing potential, and relative safety of the zinc electrode is a common hope for a reductant in secondary batteries, but it is limited mainly to primary implementation due to shape change. In this work we exploit such shape change for the benefit of static electrodes through the electrodeposition of hyper-dendritic nanoporous zinc foam. Electrodeposition of zinc foam resulted in nanoparticles formed on secondary dendrites in a three-dimensional network with a particle size distribution of 54.1 - 96.0 nm. The nanoporous zinc foam contributed to highly oriented crystals, high surface area and more rapid kinetics in contrastmore » to conventional zinc in alkaline mediums. The anode material presented had a utilization of ~ 88% at full depth-of-discharge at various rates indicating a superb rate-capability. The rechargeability of Zn⁰/Zn²⁺ showed significant capacity retention over 100 cycles at a 40% depth-of-discharge to ensure that the dendritic core structure was imperforated. The dendritic architecture was densified upon charge-discharge cycling and presented superior performance compared to bulk zinc electrodes.« less

Complete Prevention of Dendrite Formation in Zn Metal Anodes by Means of Pulsed Charging Protocols.

PubMed

Garcia, Grecia; Ventosa, Edgar; Schuhmann, Wolfgang

2017-06-07

Zn metal as anode in rechargeable batteries, such as Zn/air or Zn/Ni, suffers from poor cyclability. The formation of Zn dendrites upon cycling is the key limiting step. We report a systematic study of the influence of pulsed electroplating protocols on the formation of Zn dendrites and in turn on strategies to completely prevent Zn dendrite formation. Because of the large number of variables in electroplating protocols, a scanning droplet cell technique was adapted as a high-throughput methodology in which a descriptor of the surface roughness can be in situ derived by means of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Upon optimizing the electroplating protocol by controlling nucleation, zincate ion depletion, and zincate ion diffusion, scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy confirmed the growth of uniform and homogenous Zn deposits with a complete prevention of dendrite growth. The implementation of pulsed electroplating as the charging protocol for commercially available Ni-Zn batteries leads to substantially prolonged cyclability demonstrating the benefits of pulsed charging in Zn metal-based batteries.

Time Dependence of Tip Morphology during Cellular/Dendritic Arrayed Growth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Song, H.; Tewari, S. N.

1996-01-01

Succinonitrile-1.9 wt pct acetone has been directionally solidified in 0.7 X 0.7-cm-square cross section pyrex ampoules in order to observe the cell/dendrite tip morphologies, not influenced by the 'wall effects', which are present during growth in the generally used thin (about 200 gm) crucibles. The tips do not maintain a steady-state shape, as is generally assumed. Instead, they fluctuate within a shape envelope. The extent of fluctuation increases with decreasing growth speed, as the micro structure changes from the dendritic to cellular. The influence of natural convection has been examined by comparing these morphologies with those grown, without convection, in the thin ampoules.

Ramadan Fasting Effects on Postural Control in the Elderly: A Comparison Between Fallers and Non-fallers.

PubMed

Laatar, Rabeb; Baccouch, Rym; Borji, Rihab; Kachouri, Hiba; Rebai, Haithem; Sahli, Sonia

2016-11-01

Our purpose was to compare the effects of Ramadan fasting on postural control in elderly fallers and non-fallers. The protocol involved twenty-four healthy old volunteer males divided into two groups: fallers (mean age = 75.43 ± 5.26 years, weight = 67.25 ± 5.30 kg and height = 1.65 ± 0.02 m) and non-fallers (mean age = 72.3 ± 6.42 years, weight = 65.5 ± 6.15 kg and height = 1.64 ± 0.03 m). Participants performed a simple reaction time test (SRT) and a postural control protocol on four different occasions: one week before Ramadan (BR), during the second (SWR) and the fourth week (FWR) of Ramadan and three weeks after Ramadan (AR). Center of pressure (CoP) parameters [the CoP medial-lateral length (CoP X ), and the CoP antero-posterior length (CoP Y )] were assessed using a force platform under two surface conditions: Firm surface and Foam surface. The results showed that Ramadan fasting influences similarly fallers and non-fallers. In fact, for both groups, the CoP X and the CoP Y values increased significantly during the SWR and the FWR compared to BR. These CoP parameters decreased significantly in the Firm surface conditions in the FWR. Moreover, the CoP parameters were significantly higher during the FWR and AR in comparison with BR in the Foam surface conditions. However, the amplitude of increase of the CoP [X] % and the CoP [Y] % (ΔCoP [X] % and ΔCoP [Y] %) between BR and the SWR was significantly higher in the fallers than non-fallers. The SRT of elderly fallers and non-fallers was significantly higher in the SWR and in the FWR compared to BR. In conclusion, Ramadan fasting alters similarly postural control of elderly fallers and non-fallers, but the amplitude (ΔCoP [X] % and ΔCoP [Y] %) of this alteration seems to be more pronounced in fallers than non-fallers. A probable beginning of adaptation occurs at the FWR. However, three weeks seems to be insufficient to recover postural control alterations due to Ramadan fasting in difficult sensory conditions in elderly fallers and non-fallers.

CDKL5, a protein associated with rett syndrome, regulates neuronal morphogenesis via Rac1 signaling.

PubMed

Chen, Qian; Zhu, Yong-Chuan; Yu, Jing; Miao, Sheng; Zheng, Jing; Xu, Li; Zhou, Yang; Li, Dan; Zhang, Chi; Tao, Jiong; Xiong, Zhi-Qi

2010-09-22

Mutations in cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5), also known as serine/threonine kinase 9 (STK9), have been identified in patients with Rett syndrome (RTT) and X-linked infantile spasm. However, the function of CDKL5 in the brain remains unknown. Here, we report that CDKL5 is a critical regulator of neuronal morphogenesis. We identified a neuron-specific splicing variant of CDKL5 whose expression was markedly induced during postnatal development of the rat brain. Downregulating CDKL5 by RNA interference (RNAi) in cultured cortical neurons inhibited neurite growth and dendritic arborization, whereas overexpressing CDKL5 had opposite effects. Furthermore, knocking down CDKL5 in the rat brain by in utero electroporation resulted in delayed neuronal migration, and severely impaired dendritic arborization. In contrast to its proposed function in the nucleus, we found that CDKL5 regulated dendrite development through a cytoplasmic mechanism. In fibroblasts and in neurons, CDKL5 colocalized and formed a protein complex with Rac1, a critical regulator of actin remodeling and neuronal morphogenesis. Overexpression of Rac1 prevented the inhibition of dendrite growth caused by CDKL5 knockdown, and the growth-promoting effect of ectopically expressed CDKL5 on dendrites was abolished by coexpressing a dominant-negative form of Rac1. Moreover, CDKL5 was required for brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-induced activation of Rac1. Together, these results demonstrate a critical role of CDKL5 in neuronal morphogenesis and identify a Rho GTPase signaling pathway which may contribute to CDKL5-related disorders.

MicroRNA-214 Promotes Apoptosis in Canine Hemangiosarcoma by Targeting the COP1-p53 Axis.

PubMed

Heishima, Kazuki; Mori, Takashi; Sakai, Hiroki; Sugito, Nobuhiko; Murakami, Mami; Yamada, Nami; Akao, Yukihiro; Maruo, Kohji

2015-01-01

MicroRNA-214 regulates both angiogenic function in endothelial cells and apoptosis in various cancers. However, the regulation and function of miR-214 is unclear in canine hemangiosarcoma, which is a spontaneous model of human angiosarcoma. The expression and functional roles of miR-214 in canine hemangiosarcoma were presently explored by performing miRNA TaqMan qRT-PCR and transfecting cells with synthetic microRNA. Here, we report that miR-214 was significantly down-regulated in the cell lines used and in clinical samples of canine hemangiosarcoma. Restoration of miR-214 expression reduced cell growth and induced apoptosis in canine hemangiosarcoma cell lines through transcriptional activation of p53-regulated genes although miR-214 had a slight effect of growth inhibition on normal endothelial cells. We identified COP1, which is a critical negative regulator of p53, as a novel direct target of miR-214. COP1 was overexpressed and the specific COP1 knockdown induced apoptosis through transcriptional activation of p53-regulated genes as well as did miR-214-transfection in HSA cell lines. Furthermore, p53 knockdown abolished the miR-214-COP1-mediated apoptosis; thus, miR-214 and COP1 regulated apoptosis through controlling p53 in HSA. In conclusion, miR-214 functioned as a tumor suppressor in canine hemangiosarcoma by inducing apoptosis through recovering the function of p53. miR-214 down-regulation and COP1 overexpression is likely to contribute to tumorigenesis of HSA. Therefore, targeting miR-214-COP1-p53 axis would possibly be a novel effective strategy for treatment of canine hemangiosarcoma and capable of being applied to the development of novel therapeutics for human angiosarcoma.

COPS: A Sensitive and Accurate Tool for Detecting Somatic Copy Number Alterations Using Short-Read Sequence Data from Paired Samples

PubMed Central

Krishnan, Neeraja M.; Gaur, Prakhar; Chaudhary, Rakshit; Rao, Arjun A.; Panda, Binay

2012-01-01

Copy Number Alterations (CNAs) such as deletions and duplications; compose a larger percentage of genetic variations than single nucleotide polymorphisms or other structural variations in cancer genomes that undergo major chromosomal re-arrangements. It is, therefore, imperative to identify cancer-specific somatic copy number alterations (SCNAs), with respect to matched normal tissue, in order to understand their association with the disease. We have devised an accurate, sensitive, and easy-to-use tool, COPS, COpy number using Paired Samples, for detecting SCNAs. We rigorously tested the performance of COPS using short sequence simulated reads at various sizes and coverage of SCNAs, read depths, read lengths and also with real tumor:normal paired samples. We found COPS to perform better in comparison to other known SCNA detection tools for all evaluated parameters, namely, sensitivity (detection of true positives), specificity (detection of false positives) and size accuracy. COPS performed well for sequencing reads of all lengths when used with most upstream read alignment tools. Additionally, by incorporating a downstream boundary segmentation detection tool, the accuracy of SCNA boundaries was further improved. Here, we report an accurate, sensitive and easy to use tool in detecting cancer-specific SCNAs using short-read sequence data. In addition to cancer, COPS can be used for any disease as long as sequence reads from both disease and normal samples from the same individual are available. An added boundary segmentation detection module makes COPS detected SCNA boundaries more specific for the samples studied. COPS is available at ftp://115.119.160.213 with username “cops” and password “cops”. PMID:23110103

Immunogenicity and efficacy following sequential parenterally-administered doses of Salmonella Enteritidis COPS:FliC glycoconjugates in infant and adult mice.

PubMed

Baliban, Scott M; Curtis, Brittany; Toema, Deanna; Tennant, Sharon M; Levine, Myron M; Pasetti, Marcela F; Simon, Raphael

2018-05-23

In sub-Saharan Africa, invasive nontyphoidal Salmonella (iNTS) infections with serovars S. Enteritidis, S. Typhimurium and I 4,[5],12:i:- are widespread in children < 5 years old. Development of an efficacious vaccine would provide an important public health tool to prevent iNTS disease in this population. Glycoconjugates of S. Enteritidis core and O-polysaccharide (COPS) coupled to the homologous serovar phase 1 flagellin protein (FliC) were previously shown to be immunogenic and protected adult mice against death following challenge with a virulent Malian S. Enteritidis blood isolate. This study extends these observations to immunization of mice in early life and also assesses protection with partial and full regimens. Anti-COPS and anti-FliC serum IgG titers were assessed in infant and adult mice after immunization with 1, 2 or 3 doses of S. Enteritidis COPS:FliC alone or co-formulated with aluminum hydroxide or monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL) adjuvants. S. Enteritidis COPS:FliC was immunogenic in both age groups, although the immune responses were quantitatively lower in infants. Kinetics of antibody production were similar for the native and adjuvanted formulations after three doses; conjugates formulated with MPL elicited significantly increased anti-COPS IgG titers in adult but not infant mice. Nevertheless, robust protection against S. Enteritidis challenge was seen for all three formulations when three doses were given either during infancy or as adults. We further found that significant protection could be achieved with two COPS:FliC doses, despite elicitation of modest serum anti-COPS IgG antibody titers. These findings guide potential immunization strategies that may be translated to develop a human pediatric iNTS vaccine for sub-Saharan Africa.

Comparison of Path Length and Ranges of Movement of the Center of Pressure and Reaction Time and Between Paired-Play and Solo-Play of a Virtual Reality Game.

PubMed

Portnoy, Sigal; Hersch, Ayelet; Sofer, Tal; Tresser, Sarit

2017-06-01

To test whether paired-play will induce longer path length and ranges of movement of the center of pressure (COP), which reflects on balance performance and stability, compared to solo-play and to test the difference in the path length and ranges of movement of the COP while playing the virtual reality (VR) game with the dominant hand compared to playing it with the nondominant hand. In this cross-sectional study 20 children (age 6.1 ± 0.7 years old) played an arm movement controlled VR game alone and with a peer while each of them stood on a pressure measuring pad to track the path length and ranges of movement of the COP. The total COP path was significantly higher during the paired-play (median 295.8 cm) compared to the COP path during the solo-play (median 189.2 cm). No significant differences were found in the reaction time and the mediolateral and anterior-posterior COP ranges between solo-play and paired-play. No significant differences were found between the parameters extracted during paired-play with the dominant or nondominant hand. Our findings imply that the paired-play is advantageous compared to solo-play since it induces a greater movement for the child, during which, higher COP velocities are reached that may contribute to improving the balance control of the child. Apart from the positive social benefits of paired-play, this positive effect on the COP path length is a noteworthy added value in the clinical setting when treating children with balance disorder.

Chlamydia pneumoniae effector chlamydial outer protein N sequesters fructose bisphosphate aldolase A, providing a benefit to bacterial growth.

PubMed

Ishida, Kasumi; Matsuo, Junji; Yamamoto, Yoshimasa; Yamaguchi, Hiroyuki

2014-12-21

Pathogenic chlamydiae are obligate intracellular pathogens and have adapted successfully to human cells, causing sexually transmitted diseases or pneumonia. Chlamydial outer protein N (CopN) is likely a critical effector protein secreted by the type III secretion system in chlamydiae, which manipulates host cells. However, the mechanisms of its action remain to be clarified. In this work, we aimed to identify previously unidentified CopN effector target in host cells. We first performed a pull-down assay with recombinant glutathione S-transferase (GST) fusion CopN proteins (GST-CpCopN: Chlamydia pneumoniae TW183, GST-CtCopN: Chlamydia trachomatis D/UW-3/CX) as "bait" and soluble lysates obtained from human immortal epithelial HEp-2 cells as "prey", followed by SDS-PAGE with mass spectroscopy (MS). We found that a host cell protein specifically bound to GST-CpCopN, but not GST-CtCopN. MS revealed the host protein to be fructose bisphosphate aldolase A (aldolase A), which plays a key role in glycolytic metabolism. We also confirmed the role of aldolase A in chlamydia-infected HEp-2 cells by using two distinct experiments for gene knockdown with an siRNA specific to aldolase A transcripts, and for assessment of glycolytic enzyme gene expression levels. As a result, both the numbers of chlamydial inclusion-forming units and RpoD transcripts were increased in the chlamydia-infected aldolase A knockdown cells, as compared with the wild-type HEp-2 cells. Meanwhile, chlamydial infection tended to enhance expression of aldolase A. We discovered that one of the C. pneumoniae CopN targets is the glycolytic enzyme aldolase A. Sequestering aldolase A may be beneficial to bacterial growth in infected host cells.

Attempted suicide by cop: a case study of traumatic brain injury and the insanity defense.

PubMed

Bresler, Scott; Scalora, Mario J; Elbogen, Eric B; Moore, Y Scott

2003-01-01

Over the years, there have been a number of well-publicized incidents involving persons who seemingly maneuver police officers into shooting them. Such cases, while relatively rare compared with most forms of violence, nevertheless pose difficult challenges to law enforcement agencies. Relatively little is known about persons who engage in suicide by cop incidents. To our knowledge, there has been no published indepth research on instigators of suicide by cop who survived. In this paper, we present a case study of an individual who engaged in and lived through three separate "attempted suicide by cop" incidents. After describing relevant history as well as events of the most recent incident, we compare the case with the extant literature on suicide by cop and analyze commonalities and differences. Finally, we examine the legal considerations involved, with particular attention devoted to the role the individual's traumatic brain injury played in applying the insanity defense.

CORRELATION PURSUIT: FORWARD STEPWISE VARIABLE SELECTION FOR INDEX MODELS

PubMed Central

Zhong, Wenxuan; Zhang, Tingting; Zhu, Yu; Liu, Jun S.

2012-01-01

In this article, a stepwise procedure, correlation pursuit (COP), is developed for variable selection under the sufficient dimension reduction framework, in which the response variable Y is influenced by the predictors X1, X2, …, Xp through an unknown function of a few linear combinations of them. Unlike linear stepwise regression, COP does not impose a special form of relationship (such as linear) between the response variable and the predictor variables. The COP procedure selects variables that attain the maximum correlation between the transformed response and the linear combination of the variables. Various asymptotic properties of the COP procedure are established, and in particular, its variable selection performance under diverging number of predictors and sample size has been investigated. The excellent empirical performance of the COP procedure in comparison with existing methods are demonstrated by both extensive simulation studies and a real example in functional genomics. PMID:23243388

Facile fabrication of Ag dendrite-integrated anodic aluminum oxide membrane as effective three-dimensional SERS substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Cong-yun; Lu, Ya; Zhao, Bin; Hao, Yao-wu; Liu, Ya-qing

2016-07-01

A novel surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)-active substrate has been successfully developed, where Ag-dendrites are assembled on the surface and embedded in the channels of anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membrane, via electrodeposition in AgNO3/PVP aqueous system. Reaction conditions were systematically investigated to attain the best Raman enhancement. The growth mechanism of Ag dendritic nanostructures has been proposed. The Ag dendrite-integrated AAO membrane with unique hierarchical structures exhibits high SERS activity for detecting rhodamine 6G with a detection limit as low as 1 × 10-11 M. Furthermore, the three-dimensional (3D) substrates display a good reproducibility with the average intensity variations at the major Raman peak less than 12%. Most importantly, the 3D SERS substrates without any surface modification show an outstanding SERS response for the molecules with weak affinity for noble metal surfaces. The potential application for the detection of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) was evaluated with fluoranthene as Raman target molecule and a sensitive SERS detection with a limit down to 10-8 M was reached. The 3D SERS-active substrate shows promising potential for rapid detection of trace organic pollutants even weak affinity molecules in the environment.

Regeneration of Drosophila sensory neuron axons and dendrites is regulated by the Akt pathway involving Pten and microRNA bantam

PubMed Central

Song, Yuanquan; Ori-McKenney, Kassandra M.; Zheng, Yi; Han, Chun; Jan, Lily Yeh; Jan, Yuh Nung

2012-01-01

Both cell-intrinsic and extrinsic pathways govern axon regeneration, but only a limited number of factors have been identified and it is not clear to what extent axon regeneration is evolutionarily conserved. Whether dendrites also regenerate is unknown. Here we report that, like the axons of mammalian sensory neurons, the axons of certain Drosophila dendritic arborization (da) neurons are capable of substantial regeneration in the periphery but not in the CNS, and activating the Akt pathway enhances axon regeneration in the CNS. Moreover, those da neurons capable of axon regeneration also display dendrite regeneration, which is cell type-specific, developmentally regulated, and associated with microtubule polarity reversal. Dendrite regeneration is restrained via inhibition of the Akt pathway in da neurons by the epithelial cell-derived microRNA bantam but is facilitated by cell-autonomous activation of the Akt pathway. Our study begins to reveal mechanisms for dendrite regeneration, which depends on both extrinsic and intrinsic factors, including the PTEN–Akt pathway that is also important for axon regeneration. We thus established an important new model system—the fly da neuron regeneration model that resembles the mammalian injury model—with which to study and gain novel insights into the regeneration machinery. PMID:22759636

Loss Analysis of High Power Stirling-Type Pulse Tube Cryocooler

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakano, K.; Hiratsuka, Y.

2015-12-01

For the purpose of cooling high-temperature superconductor (HTS) devices, such as superconductor motors, superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) and current fault limiters, cryocoolers should be compact in size, light-weight, and have high efficiency and reliability. In order to meet the demand of HTS devices world-wide, the cryocooler needs to have COP efficiency >0.1. We have developed a high power Stirling-type pulse tube cryocooler (SPTC) with an in-line expander. The experimental results were reported in June 2012[1]. The cooling capacity was 210 W at 77 K and the minimum temperature was 37 K when the compressor input power was 3.8 kW. Accordingly, the COP was about 0.055. To further improve the efficiency, the energy losses in the cryocooler were analyzed. The experimental results and the numerical calculation results are reported in this paper.

Good CoPs and Bad CoPs: Facilitating Reform in First-Year Assessment via a Community of Practice

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Howlett, Catherine; Arthur, James Michael; Ferreira, Jo Anne

2016-01-01

The idea and implementation of learning communities are gaining favour in higher education institutions. In particular, there are a number of successful examples to emerge of the application of the Community of Practice (CoP) framework proposed by Wenger [(1998). "Communities of practice: Learning, meaning, and identity." Cambridge, MA:…

30 CFR 585.618 - What must I do upon completion of approved site assessment activities?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... assessment term, you timely submit a COP meeting the requirements of this subpart, or a complete FERC license... facilities in place on your lease during the time that BOEM reviews your COP for approval or FERC reviews... for facilities that are authorized to remain in place under your approved COP or approved FERC license...

30 CFR 585.714 - What records relating to SAPs, COPs, and GAPs must I keep?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 2 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false What records relating to SAPs, COPs, and GAPs must I keep? 585.714 Section 585.714 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF... records relating to SAPs, COPs, and GAPs must I keep? (a) Until BOEM releases your financial assurance...

30 CFR 585.714 - What records relating to SAPs, COPs, and GAPs must I keep?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 2 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false What records relating to SAPs, COPs, and GAPs must I keep? 585.714 Section 585.714 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF... records relating to SAPs, COPs, and GAPs must I keep? (a) Until BOEM releases your financial assurance...

30 CFR 585.618 - What must I do upon completion of approved site assessment activities?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... assessment term, you timely submit a COP meeting the requirements of this subpart, or a complete FERC license... facilities in place on your lease during the time that BOEM reviews your COP for approval or FERC reviews... for facilities that are authorized to remain in place under your approved COP or approved FERC license...

30 CFR 585.714 - What records relating to SAPs, COPs, and GAPs must I keep?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 2 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false What records relating to SAPs, COPs, and GAPs must I keep? 585.714 Section 585.714 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF... records relating to SAPs, COPs, and GAPs must I keep? (a) Until BOEM releases your financial assurance...

30 CFR 585.618 - What must I do upon completion of approved site assessment activities?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... assessment term, you timely submit a COP meeting the requirements of this subpart, or a complete FERC license... facilities in place on your lease during the time that BOEM reviews your COP for approval or FERC reviews... for facilities that are authorized to remain in place under your approved COP or approved FERC license...

30 CFR 285.714 - What records relating to SAPs, COPs, and GAPs must I keep?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 2 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false What records relating to SAPs, COPs, and GAPs must I keep? 285.714 Section 285.714 Mineral Resources BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT, REGULATION... Verification Agent § 285.714 What records relating to SAPs, COPs, and GAPs must I keep? (a) Until MMS releases...

20 CFR 10.216 - How is the pay rate for COP calculated?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... for COP purposes is equal to the employee's regular “weekly” pay (the average of the weekly pay over... occurred during the 45-day period are to be reflected in the weekly pay determination. (b) The weekly pay... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false How is the pay rate for COP calculated? 10...

A Community of Practice Focused on Resiliency in Graduate Nursing Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wildes, Megan

2016-01-01

The purpose of this project was to create a Community of Practice (CoP) focused on resiliency in graduate nursing students. CoPs are networks of people who collectively learn and share in learning as a social experience. By engaging a CoP that focused on resiliency in graduate nursing students, the aim was to positively support students' sense of…

50 CFR 23.88 - What are the resolutions and decisions of the CoP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 50 Wildlife and Fisheries 8 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false What are the resolutions and decisions of the CoP? 23.88 Section 23.88 Wildlife and Fisheries UNITED STATES FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE... decisions of the CoP? (a) Purpose. Under Article XI of the Treaty, the Parties agree to resolutions and...

Analysis of geothermal temperatures for heat pumps application in Paraná (Brasil)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santos, Alexandre F.; de Souza, Heraldo J. L.; Cantao, Mauricio P.; Gaspar, Pedro D.

2016-11-01

Geothermal heat pumps are broadly used in developed countries but scarcely in Brazil, in part because there is a lack of Brazilian soil temperature data. The aims of this work are: to present soil temperature measurements and to compare geothermal heat pump system performances with conventional air conditioning systems. Geothermal temperature measurement results are shown for ten Paraná State cities, representing different soil and climate conditions. The measurements were made yearlong with calibrated equipment and digital data acquisition system in different measuring stations. Geothermal and ambient temperature data were used for simulations of the coeficient of performance (COP), by means of a working fluid pressure-enthalpy diagram based software for vapor-compression cycle. It was verified that geothermal temperature measured between January 13 to October 13, 2013, varied from 16 to 24 °C, while room temperature has varied between 2 and 35 °C. Average COP values for conventional system were 3.7 (cooling mode) and 5.0 kW/kW (heating mode), corresponding to 5.9 and 7.9 kW/kW for geothermal system. Hence it was verified an average eficiency gain of 59%with geothermal system utilization in comparison with conventional system.

The COP9 signalosome controls jasmonic acid synthesis and plant responses to herbivory and pathogens.

PubMed

Hind, Sarah R; Pulliam, Sarah E; Veronese, Paola; Shantharaj, Deepak; Nazir, Azka; Jacobs, Nekaiya S; Stratmann, Johannes W

2011-02-01

The COP9 signalosome (CSN) is a multi-protein complex that regulates the activities of cullin-RING E3 ubiquitin ligases (CRLs). CRLs ubiquitinate proteins in order to target them for proteasomal degradation. The CSN is required for proper plant development. Here we show that the CSN also has a profound effect on plant defense responses. Silencing of genes for CSN subunits in tomato plants resulted in a mild morphological phenotype and reduced expression of wound-responsive genes in response to mechanical wounding, attack by Manduca sexta larvae, and Prosystemin over-expression. In contrast, expression of pathogenesis-related genes was increased in a stimulus-independent manner in these plants. The reduced wound response in CSN-silenced plants corresponded with reduced synthesis of jasmonic acid (JA), but levels of salicylic acid (SA) were unaltered. As a consequence, these plants exhibited reduced resistance against herbivorous M. sexta larvae and the necrotrophic fungal pathogen Botrytis cinerea. In contrast, susceptibility to tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) was not altered in CSN-silenced plants. These data demonstrate that the CSN orchestrates not only plant development but also JA-dependent plant defense responses. © 2011 The Authors. The Plant Journal © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.