CECA Model of the JSTAFF

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-01-01

National Defence. [2] Cook, T . M., Leedom, D. K., Grynovicki, J. O., & Golden, M. G . (2000). Cognitive representativeness of battlespace complexity... planification opérationnelle et la représentation graphique de plans. Le modèle situationnel doit être organisé en un tableau intégré élaboré par le...1. Système de commandement des Forces canadiennes (2002). Modèles de processus pour la planification opérationnelle et stratégique des FC et

Déprescription des antihyperglycémiants chez les personnes âgées

PubMed Central

Farrell, Barbara; Black, Cody; Thompson, Wade; McCarthy, Lisa; Rojas-Fernandez, Carlos; Lochnan, Heather; Shamji, Salima; Upshur, Ross; Bouchard, Manon; Welch, Vivian

2017-01-01

Résumé Objectif Formuler des lignes directrices fondées sur les données probantes afin d’aider les cliniciens à décider du moment et de la façon sécuritaire de réduire la dose des antihyperglycémiants, de mettre fin au traitement ou de passer à un autre agent chez les personnes âgées. Méthodes Nous nous sommes concentrés sur les données les plus probantes disponibles et avons cherché à obtenir les commentaires des professionnels de première ligne durant le processus de rédaction, de révision et d’adoption des lignes directrices. L’équipe était formée de 7 professionnels de la santé (2 médecins de famille, 3 pharmaciens, 1 infirmière praticienne et 1 endocrinologue) et d’une spécialiste de la méthodologie; les membres ont divulgué tout conflit d’intérêts. Nous avons eu recours à un processus rigoureux, y compris l’approche GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) pour formuler les lignes directrices. Nous avons effectué une revue systématique dans le but d’évaluer les données probantes indiquant les bienfaits et les torts liés à la déprescription des antihyperglycémiants. Nous avons révisé les revues des torts liés à la poursuite du traitement antihyperglycémiant, et effectué des synthèses narratives des préférences des patients et des répercussions sur les ressources. Ces synthèses et évaluations de la qualité des données selon l’approche GRADE ont servi à formuler les recommandations. L’équipe a peaufiné le texte sur le contenu et les recommandations des lignes directrices par consensus et a synthétisé les considérations cliniques afin de répondre aux questions courantes des cliniciens de première ligne. Une version préliminaire des lignes directrices a été distribuée aux cliniciens et aux intervenants aux fins d’examen, et des révisions ont été apportées au texte à chaque étape. Un algorithme d’appui décisionnel a été conçu pour accompagner les lignes directrices. Recommandations Nous recommandons de déprescrire les antihyperglycémiants reconnus pour contribuer à l’hypoglycémie chez les personnes âgées à risque ou dans les situations où les antihyperglycémiants pourraient causer d’autres effets indésirables, et d’individualiser les cibles et de déprescrire en conséquence chez les personnes frêles, atteintes de démence ou dont l’espérance de vie est limitée. Conclusion Les présentes lignes directrices émettent des recommandations pratiques pour décider du moment et de la façon de déprescrire les antihyperglycémiants. Elles visent à contribuer au processus de décision conjointement avec le patient et non à le dicter. PMID:29138168

L'ethique de l'environnement comme dimension transversale de l'education en sciences et en technologies: Proposition d'un modele educationnel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chavez, Milagros

Cette these presente la trajectoire et les resultats d'une recherche dont l'objectif global est de developper un modele educationnel integrant l'ethique de l'environnement comme dimension transversale de l'education en sciences et en technologies. Face au paradigme positiviste toujours dominant dans l'enseignement des sciences, il a semble utile d'ouvrir un espace de reflexion et de proposer, sous forme d'un modele formel, une orientation pedagogique qui soit plus en resonance avec quelques-unes des preoccupations fondamentales de notre epoque: en particulier celle qui concerne la relation de humain avec son environnement et plus specifiquement, le role de la science dans le faconnement d'une telle relation, par sa contribution a la transformation des conditions de vie, au point de compromettre les equilibres naturels. En fonction de cette problematique generale, les objectifs de la recherche sont les suivants: (1) definir les elements paradigmatiques, theoriques et axiologiques du modele educationnel a construire et (2) definir ses composantes strategiques. De caractere theorico-speculatif, cette recherche a adopte la demarche de l'anasynthese, en la situant dans la perspective critique de la recherche en education. Le cadre theorique de cette these s'est construit autour de quatre concepts pivots: modele educationnel, education en sciences et en technologies, transversalite educative et ethique de l'environnement. Ces concepts ont ete clarifies a partir d'un corpus textuel, puis, sur cette base, des choix theoriques ont ete faits, a partir desquels un prototype du modele a ete elabore. Ce prototype a ensuite ete soumis a une double validation (par des experts et par une mise a l'essai), dans le but d'y apporter des ameliorations et, a partir de la, de construire un modele optimal. Ce dernier comporte deux dimensions: theorico-axiologique et strategique. La premiere s'appuie sur une conception de l'education en sciences et en technologies comme appropriation d'un patrimoine culturel, dans une perspective critique et emancipatrice. Dans cette optique, l'ethique de l'environnement intervient comme processus reflexif et existentiel de notre relation a l'environnement, susceptible d'etre integre comme dimension transversale de la dynamique educative. A cet effet, la dimension strategique du modele suggere une approche transversale de type existentiel, une strategie globale de type dialogique et des strategies pedagogiques specifiques dont des strategies d'apprentissage et des strategies d'evaluation. La realisation de ce modele a mis en relief certaines perspectives interessantes. Par exemple (1) la necessite de croiser la dimension cognitive des processus educatifs en sciences et en technologies avec d'autres dimensions de l'etre humain (affective, ethique, existentielle, sociale, spirituelle, etc.); (2) une vision de l'education en sciences et en technologies comme acte de liberte fondamentale qui consiste a s'approprier de facon critique un certain patrimoine culturel; (3) une vision de l'ethique de l'environnement comme processus de reflexion qui nous confronte a des questions existentielles de base.

La planification préalable des soins pour les patients en pédiatrie

PubMed Central

2008-01-01

RÉSUMÉ Les progrès médicaux et technologiques ont permis d’ac-croître les taux de survie et d’améliorer la qualité de vie des nourrissons, des enfants et des adolescents ayant des maladies chroniques mettant la vie en danger. La planifi-cation préalable des soins inclut le processus relié aux discussions sur les traitements essentiels au maintien de la survie et la détermination des objectifs des soins de longue durée. Les dispensateurs de soins pédiatriques ont l’obligation éthique d’assimiler cet aspect des soins médicaux. Le présent document de principes vise à aider les dispensateurs de soins à discuter de la planification préalable des soins des patients pédiatriques dans diverses situations. La planification préalable des soins exige des communications efficaces afin de clarifier les objectifs des soins et de s’entendre sur les traitements pertinents ou non pour réaliser ces objectifs, y compris les mesures de réanimation et les mesures palliatives.

Caracterisation environnementale des emissions atmospheriques d'une source fixe et creation d'un outil de gestion dynamique =

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fournier, Marie-Claude

Une caracterisation des emissions atmospheriques provenant des sources fixes en operation, alimentees au gaz et a l'huile legere, a ete conduite aux installations visees des sites no.1 et no.2. La caracterisation et les calculs theoriques des emissions atmospheriques aux installations des sites no.1 et no.2 presentent des resultats qui sont en dessous des valeurs reglementaires pour des conditions d'operation normales en periode hivernale et par consequent, a de plus fortes demandes energetiques. Ainsi, pour une demande energetique plus basse, le taux de contaminants dans les emissions atmospheriques pourrait egalement etre en dessous des reglementations municipales et provinciales en vigueur. Dans la perspective d'une nouvelle reglementation provinciale, dont les termes sont discutes depuis 2005, il serait souhaitable que le proprietaire des infrastructures visees participe aux echanges avec le Ministere du Developpement Durable, de l'Environnement et des Parcs (MDDEP) du Quebec. En effet, meme si le principe de droit acquis permettrait d'eviter d'etre assujetti a la nouvelle reglementation, l'application de ce type de principe ne s'inscrit pas dans ceux d'un developpement durable. L'âge avance des installations etudiees implique la planification d'un entretien rigoureux afin d'assurer les conditions optimales de combustion en fonction du type de combustible. Des tests de combustion sur une base reguliere sont donc recommandes. Afin de supporter le processus de suivi et d'evaluation de la performance environnementale des sources fixes, un outil d'aide a la gestion de l'information environnementale a ete developpe. Dans ce contexte, la poursuite du developpement d'un outil d'aide a la gestion de l'information environnementale faciliterait non seulement le travail des personnes affectees aux inventaires annuels mais egalement le processus de communication entre les differents acteurs concernes tant intra- qu'inter-etablissement. Cet outil serait egalement un bon moyen pour sensibiliser le personnel a leur consommation energetique ainsi qu'a leur role dans la lutte contre les emissions polluantes et les gaz a effets de serre. En outre, ce type d'outil a pour principale fonction de generer des rapports dynamiques pouvant s'adapter a des besoins precis. Le decoupage coherent de l'information associe a un developpement par modules offre la perspective d'application de l'outil pour d'autres types d'activites. Dans ce cas, il s'agit de definir la part commune avec les modules existants et planifier les activites de developpement specifiques selon la meme demarche que celle presentee dans le present document.

Modeling microbial processes in porous media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murphy, Ellyn M.; Ginn, Timothy R.

The incorporation of microbial processes into reactive transport models has generally proceeded along two separate lines of investigation: (1) transport of bacteria as inert colloids in porous media, and (2) the biodegradation of dissolved contaminants by a stationary phase of bacteria. Research over the last decade has indicated that these processes are closely linked. This linkage may occur when a change in metabolic activity alters the attachment/detachment rates of bacteria to surfaces, either promoting or retarding bacterial transport in a groundwater-contaminant plume. Changes in metabolic activity, in turn, are controlled by the time of exposure of the microbes to electron acceptors/donor and other components affecting activity. Similarly, metabolic activity can affect the reversibility of attachment, depending on the residence time of active microbes. Thus, improvements in quantitative analysis of active subsurface biota necessitate direct linkages between substrate availability, metabolic activity, growth, and attachment/detachment rates. This linkage requires both a detailed understanding of the biological processes and robust quantitative representations of these processes that can be tested experimentally. This paper presents an overview of current approaches used to represent physicochemical and biological processes in porous media, along with new conceptual approaches that link metabolic activity with partitioning of the microorganism between the aqueous and solid phases. Résumé L'introduction des processus microbiologiques dans des modèles de transport réactif a généralement suivi deux voies différentes de recherches: (1) le transport de bactéries sous forme de colloïdes inertes en milieu poreux, et (2) la biodégradation de polluants dissous par une phase stationnaire de bactéries. Les recherches conduites au cours des dix dernières années indiquent que ces processus sont intimement liés. Cette liaison peut intervenir lorsqu'un changement dans l'activité métabolique modifie les taux de fixation/libération de bactéries des surfaces, soit en facilitant, soit en retardant le transport bactérien dans le panache de polluant de l'eau souterraine. Des changements de l'activité métabolique peuvent en retour être contrôlés par le temps d'exposition des microbes à des donneurs ou à des accepteurs d'électrons et à d'autres composés affectant cette activité. De façon similaire, l'activité métabolique peut affecter la réversibilité de la fixation, en fonction du temps de séjour des microbes actifs. Ainsi, les améliorations de l'analyse quantitative des organismes souterrains nécessitent d'établir des liens directs entre les possibilités du substrat, l'activité métabolique, la croissance et les taux de fixation/libération. Cette liaison nécessite à la fois une compréhension détaillée des processus biologiques et des représentations quantitatives robustes de ces processus qui puissent être testées expérimentalement. Cet article présente une revue des approches courantes utilisées pour représenter les processus physio-chimiques et biologiques en milieu poreux, en même temps que de nouvelles approches conceptuelles qui associent l'activité métabolique à la répartition des micro-organismes entre les phases aqueuse et solide. Resumen La incorporación de los procesos microbianos en los modelos de transporte reactivos ha procedido tradicionalmente a lo largo de dos líneas de investigación independientes: (1) el transporte de bacterias como coloides inertes en el medio poroso, y (2) la biodegradación de los contaminantes disueltos por una fase estacionaria de bacterias. En los últimos años se ha comprobado que estos dos procesos están muy interrelacionados. En concreto, un cambio en la actividad metabólica puede alterar la relación de adsorción/desorción de las bacterias, favoreciendo o retardando el transporte bacteriano en un penacho de contaminación. A su vez, los cambios en la actividad metabólica están controlados, entre otros factores, por el tiempo de exposición de los microbios a los receptores/donantes de electrones. Además, la actividad metabólica puede afectar la reversibilidad de la adsorción, en función del tiempo de residencia de los microbios activos. Así, el análisis cuantitativo de la actividad subsuperficial biótica necesita de un estudio detallado de las conexiones entre disponibilidad del substrato, actividad metabólica, crecimiento y relación de adsorción/desorción, lo que requiere tanto un conocimiento de los procesos biológicos, como una representación cuantitativa robusta de dichos procesos, comprobable experimentalmente. Este artículo presenta una revisión de los métodos actuales para representar los procesos fisioquímicos y biológicos en el medio poroso, además de nuevas metodologías para relacionar la actividad metabólica con el fraccionamiento de los microorganismos entre las fases sólida y acuosa.

Etude spectroscopique des collisions moleculaires (hydrogene-azote et hydrogene-oxygene) a des energies de quelques MeV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Plante, Jacinthe

1998-09-01

Les resultats presentes ici proviennent d'une etude systematique portant sur les collisions a vitesse constante, entre les projectiles d'hydrogene (H+, H2+ et H3+ a 1 MeV/nucleon) et deux cibles gazeuses (N2 et O2), soumises a differentes pressions. Les collisions sont analysees a l'aide des spectres d'emission (de 400 A a 6650 A) et des graphiques intensite/pression. Les spectres ont revele la presence des raies d'azote atomique, d'azote moleculaire, d'oxygene atomique, d'oxygene moleculaire et d'hydrogene atomique. Les raies d'hydrogene sont observees seulement avec les projectiles H2+ et H3+. Donc les processus responsables de la formation de ces raies sont des mecanismes de fragmentation des projectiles. Pour conclure, il existe une difference notable entre les projectiles et les differentes pressions. Les raies d'azote et d'oxygene augmentent selon la pression et les raies d'hydrogene atomique presentent une relation non lineaire avec la pression.

Déprescription des agonistes des récepteurs des benzodiazépines

PubMed Central

Pottie, Kevin; Thompson, Wade; Davies, Simon; Grenier, Jean; Sadowski, Cheryl A.; Welch, Vivian; Holbrook, Anne; Boyd, Cynthia; Swenson, Robert; Ma, Andy; Farrell, Barbara

2018-01-01

Résumé Objectif Formuler des lignes directrices fondées sur les données probantes visant à aider les cliniciens à décider du moment et de la façon sécuritaire de réduire la dose des agonistes des récepteurs des benzodiazépines (BZRA) pour mettre fin au traitement; se concentrer sur le niveau le plus élevé des données disponibles et obtenir les commentaires des professionnels de première ligne durant le processus de rédaction, de révision et d’adoption des lignes directrices. Méthodes L’équipe comptait 8 cliniciens (1 médecin de famille, 2 psychiatres, 1 psychologue clinique, 1 pharmacologue clinique, 2 pharmaciennes cliniques et 1 gériatre) et une spécialiste de la méthodologie; les membres ont divulgué tout conflit d’intérêts. Nous avons eu recours à un processus systématique, y compris l’approche GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) pour formuler les lignes directrices. Les données ont été générées par une revue systématique d’études portant sur la déprescription des BZRA contre l’insomnie, de même que par une revue des revues sur les torts liés à la poursuite du traitement par BZRA et des synthèses narratives sur les préférences des patients et les répercussions sur les ressources. Ces données et le score GRADE de qualité des données ont servi à formuler les recommandations. L’équipe a peaufiné le texte sur le contenu et les recommandations des lignes directrices par consensus et a synthétisé les considérations cliniques afin de répondre aux questions des cliniciens de première ligne. Une version préliminaire des lignes directrices a été révisée par les cliniciens et les intervenants. Recommandations Nous recommandons d’offrir la déprescription (réduction lente de la dose) des BZRA à tous les patients âgés (≥ 65 ans) sous un BZRA, sans égard à la durée de l’usage, et suggérons d’offrir la déprescription (réduction lente de la dose) à tous les adultes de 18 à 64 qui prennent un BZRA depuis plus de 4 semaines. Ces recommandations visent les patients qui prennent un BZRA contre l’insomnie seule (insomnie primaire) ou l’insomnie comorbide lorsque les comorbidités sous-jacentes sont efficacement prises en charge. Ces lignes directrices ne visent pas les personnes atteintes d’autres troubles non traités du sommeil ou d’anxiété, de dépression, ou d’autres troubles physiques ou de santé mentale pouvant causer ou aggraver l’insomnie. Conclusion Les agonistes des récepteurs des benzodiazépines sont liés à des torts, et leur effet thérapeutique serait bref. La réduction graduelle de la dose de BZRA améliore le taux d’abandon comparativement aux soins habituels, et ce, sans causer de torts graves. Les patients seraient plus ouverts à une conversation sur la déprescription s’ils comprennent le pourquoi (potentiel de torts), participent à l’élaboration du plan de réduction de la dose et reçoivent des conseils en matière de comportement. Les présentes lignes directrices émettent des recommandations pour décider du moment et de la façon de réduire la dose de BZRA pour mettre fin au traitement. Elles visent à contribuer au processus de décision conjointement avec le patient et non à le dicter. PMID:29760269

Bilingual Facebook Users' Cognitive Writing Processes (Processus cognitifs d'écriture des utilisateurs bilingues de Facebook)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Riley, Jacqueline

2015-01-01

This study seeks to explore the cognitive processes involved as bilinguals wrote English and Spanish Facebook status updates. Three phases of data collection were employed: individual interviews, examination of participants' Facebook status updates and a group interview. The findings suggested that regardless of the language in which participants…

La Parabole du Gaucher et de la Casserole a Bec Verseur: Etude des Processus d'Apprentissage dans un Environnement de Calculatrices Symboliques.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Trouche, Luc

2000-01-01

Discusses the problems of conceptualization of the function limit in technological environments (principally graphing calculators today and symbolic calculators tomorrow) that are gradually being adopted in precalculus teaching. Explains how the instrumentation process and the conceptualization process are dependent on each other. Sets forth a…

Confronting the ’Essence of Decision’: Canada and the Cuban Missile Crisis

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-11-01

des mesures de guerre approuvé comme la principale cause du délai prolongé que l’on a connu. La présente étude a démontré que des ... du contrôle civil de l’armée. En réalité, cette hypothèse comprend deux volets. D’une part, de quelles mesures disposaient le MDN et la haute...vastes forces en devenir, s’est installée dans les processus nationaux de planification stratégique et de reconnaissance de la

Approche du Processus d'Auto-Formation Inspiree de la Methode des "Histoires de vie" dans le cadre de la Formation continuee des institutrices maternelles en Communaute francaise de Belgique (Approach to the Process of Self-Instruction Inspired by the "Life History" Method in the Framework of the Continuing Education of Preschool Teachers in the French-Speaking Community in Belgium).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brandt, Madeleine

1994-01-01

Describes a study of the use of a critical events questionnaire and "educational biography" as means of training preschool teachers to question their role as teachers; to question their relationship with children; and to liberate their consciousness. Discusses the quantitative and qualitative results of the self-evaluation processes. (AC)

The Black-Scholes option pricing problem in mathematical finance: generalization and extensions for a large class of stochastic processes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bouchaud, Jean-Philippe; Sornette, Didier

1994-06-01

The ability to price risks and devise optimal investment strategies in thé présence of an uncertain "random" market is thé cornerstone of modern finance theory. We first consider thé simplest such problem of a so-called "European call option" initially solved by Black and Scholes using Ito stochastic calculus for markets modelled by a log-Brownien stochastic process. A simple and powerful formalism is presented which allows us to generalize thé analysis to a large class of stochastic processes, such as ARCH, jump or Lévy processes. We also address thé case of correlated Gaussian processes, which is shown to be a good description of three différent market indices (MATIF, CAC40, FTSE100). Our main result is thé introduction of thé concept of an optimal strategy in the sense of (functional) minimization of the risk with respect to the portfolio. If the risk may be made to vanish for particular continuous uncorrelated 'quasiGaussian' stochastic processes (including Black and Scholes model), this is no longer the case for more general stochastic processes. The value of the residual risk is obtained and suggests the concept of risk-corrected option prices. In the presence of very large deviations such as in Lévy processes, new criteria for rational fixing of the option prices are discussed. We also apply our method to other types of options, `Asian', `American', and discuss new possibilities (`doubledecker'...). The inclusion of transaction costs leads to the appearance of a natural characteristic trading time scale. L'aptitude à quantifier le coût du risque et à définir une stratégie optimale de gestion de portefeuille dans un marché aléatoire constitue la base de la théorie moderne de la finance. Nous considérons d'abord le problème le plus simple de ce type, à savoir celui de l'option d'achat `européenne', qui a été résolu par Black et Scholes à l'aide du calcul stochastique d'Ito appliqué aux marchés modélisés par un processus Log-Brownien. Nous présentons un formalisme simple et puissant qui permet de généraliser l'analyse à une grande classe de processus stochastiques, tels que les processus ARCH, de Lévy et ceux à sauts. Nous étudions également le cas des processus Gaussiens corrélés, dont nous montrons qu'ils donnent une bonne description de trois indices boursiers (MATIF, CAC40, FTSE100). Notre résultat principal consiste en l'introduction du concept de stratégie optimale dans le sens d'une minimisation (fonctionnelle) du risque en fonction du portefeuille d'actions. Si le risque peut être annulé pour les processus `quasi-Gaussien' non-corrélés, dont le modèle de Black et Scholes est un exemple, cela n'est plus vrai dans le cas général, le risque résiduel permettant de proposer des coûts d'options "corrigés". En présence de très grandes fluctuations du marché telles que décrites par les processus de Lévy, de nouveaux critères pour fixer rationnellement le prix des options sont nécessaires et sont discutés. Nous appliquons notre méthode à d'autres types d'options, telles que `asiatiques', `américaines', et à de nouvelles options que nous introduisons comme les `options à deux étages'... L'inclusion des frais de transaction dans le formalisme conduit à l'introduction naturelle d'un temps caractéristique de transaction.

Eversion congénitale bilatérale des paupières: prise en charge d’un cas selon l’approche conservatrice au Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Yaoundé, Cameroun

PubMed Central

Monebenimp, Francisca; Kagmeni, Gilles; Chelo, David; Bilong, Yannick; Moukouri, Ernest

2012-01-01

L’éversion congénitale des paupières est une affection rare. Son traitement en première intention est généralement conservateur, constitué de lubrifiant, d’antibiotiques, de manœuvres d’inversion de la paupière éversée et d’une éducation des parents. Nous présentons le cas d’un nouveau-né de huit heures de vie ayant une éversion congénitale bilatérale des paupières avec surinfection bactérienne. La ponction à l’aiguille de la conjonctive œdémateuse associée au traitement topique avec du sérum salé isotonique et des antibiotiques ont accéléré le processus de guérison. Une récidive n’a pas été observée lors des pleurs après trois semaines d’inversion des paupières. PMID:22514768

Diffusion and plasticity at high temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Philibert, J.

1991-06-01

High temperature plastic deformation requires atomic migration whatever the mechanism of deformation. The constitutive equations contain a diffusion coefficient and the deformation rate follows an Arrhenius law. This paper will only discuss the case of viscous creep in order to elucidate the nature of the diffusion processes and the expression of the diffusion coefficient involved in alloys or compounds. La déformation plastique à haute température met en jeu des migrations atomiques, quel que soit le mécanisme de déformation. Les lois de comportement contiennent donc un coefficient de diffusion et la vitesse de déformation obéit à une loi d'Arrhenius. Dans cet article, qui ne conceme qu'un seul type de déformation, lefluage visqueux, on s'efforce de préciser la nature des processus de diffusion et du coefficient de diffusion mis en jeu dans le cas des alliages et des composés.

Le consentement libre et éclairé aux soins en psychiatrie

PubMed Central

Neilson, Grainne; Chaimowitz, Gary

2015-01-01

Résumé Le patient a le droit d’être informé sur les soins de santé qui lui sont proposés et de participer activement à la prise de décisions relativement à ces soins. Le respect de la dignité et de l’autonomie de la personne passe par le respect de son droit de prendre des décisions à propos de ses soins psychiatriques, notamment de refuser un traitement, pour autant qu’elle soit apte à prendre des décisions. Il importe que le psychiatre connaisse les fondements éthiques du consentement libre et éclairé et les exigences prévues par le droit en cette matière, y compris la jurisprudence. Le consentement n’est pas immuable, pouvant changer avec le temps, au fil de l’évolution des conditions et des circonstances. Par conséquent, le consentement doit être un processus continu.

Canadian Forces Training and Mental Preparation for Adversity: Empirical Review of Stoltz ’Adversity Quotient (AQ) Training for Optimal Response to Adversity’, A Review of the AQ Literature and Supporting Studies

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-07-01

canadiennes. Enfin, nous faisons des recommandations aux FC sur la mise en ceuvre duS processus de d6veloppement du QA comme mesure proactive. Un examen...critique des ouvrages lies au QA et A d’autres sujets connexes a montr6 que le concept du QA est fond6 sur un certain nombre de thdories sens~es sur la...rdsilience. Cependant, m~me si le cadre th~orique et le programme de d6veloppement du QA pourraicnt 8tre valides dans un contexte industriel

Optimisation thermique de moules d'injection construits par des processus génératifs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boillat, E.; Glardon, R.; Paraschivescu, D.

2002-12-01

Une des potentialités les plus remarquables des procédés de production génératifs, comme le frittage sélectif par laser, est leur capacité à fabriquer des moules pour l'injection plastique équipés directement de canaux de refroidissement conformes, parfaitement adaptés aux empreintes Pour que l'industrie de l'injection puisse tirer pleinement parti de cette nouvelle opportunité, il est nécessaire de mettre à la disposition des moulistes des logiciels de simulation capables d'évaluer les gains de productivité et de qualité réalisables avec des systèmes de refroidissement mieux adaptés. Ces logiciels devraient aussi être capables, le cas échéant, de concevoir le système de refroidissement optimal dans des situations où l'empreinte d'injection est complexe. Devant le manque d'outils disponibles dans ce domaine, le but de cet article est de proposer un modèle simple de moules d'injection. Ce modèle permet de comparer différentes stratégies de refroidissement et peut être couplé avec un algorithme d'optimisation.

Geomorphic aspects of groundwater flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

LaFleur, Robert G.

The many roles that groundwater plays in landscape evolution are becoming more widely appreciated. In this overview, three major categories of groundwater processes and resulting landforms are considered: (1) Dissolution creates various karst geometries, mainly in carbonate rocks, in response to conditions of recharge, geologic setting, lithology, and groundwater circulation. Denudation and cave formation rates can be estimated from kinetic and hydraulic parameters. (2) Groundwater weathering generates regoliths of residual alteration products at weathering fronts, and subsequent exhumation exposes corestones, flared slopes, balanced rocks, domed inselbergs, and etchplains of regional importance. Groundwater relocation of dissolved salts creates duricrusts of various compositions, which become landforms. (3) Soil and rock erosion by groundwater processes include piping, seepage erosion, and sapping, important agents in slope retreat and headward gully migration. Thresholds and limits are important in many chemical and mechanical groundwater actions. A quantitative, morphometric approach to groundwater landforms and processes is exemplified by selected studies in carbonate and clastic terrains of ancient and recent origins. Résumé Les rôles variés joués par les eaux souterraines dans l'évolution des paysages deviennent nettement mieux connus. La revue faite ici prend en considération trois grandes catégories de processus liés aux eaux souterraines et les formes associées: (1) La dissolution crée des formes karstiques variées, surtout dans les roches carbonatées, en fonction des conditions d'alimentation, du cadre géologique, de la lithologie et de la circulation des eaux souterraines. Les taux d'érosion et de formation des grottes peuvent être estimés à partir de paramètres cinétiques et hydrauliques. (2) L'érosion par les eaux souterraines donne naissance à des régolites, résidus d'altération sur des fronts d'altération, et l'exhumation résultante fait apparaître des rognons, des pentes qui s'évasent, des roches en équilibre, des inselbergs et des plaines de corrosion d'extension régionale. La migration des sels dissous des eaux souterraines crée des croûtes de compositions variées, qui constituent des paysages particuliers. (3) Les processus d'érosion des sols et des roches par les eaux souterraines comprennent les phénomènes suivants: la chenalisation, l'érosion par suintement, le sapement, qui tous sont des agents notables du recul des versants et d'érosion régressive vers l'amont. Les seuils et les limites sont importants dans de nombreuses actions chimiques et mécaniques des eaux souterraines. Une approche morphométrique quantitative des formes et des processus liés aux eaux souterraines est donnée en exemple à partir d'études choisies dans les terrains carbonatés et détritiques d'origine aussi bien ancienne que récente. Resumen Las aguas subterráneas tienen una importancia fundamental en la evolución de los paisajes geomorfológicos. En este artículo se consideran tres grandes categorías de procesos ligados al agua subterránea y sus correspondientes paisajes resultantes: (1) La disolución crea distintas geometrías kársticas, fundamentalmente en rocas carbonatadas, como respuesta a las condiciones de recarga, condicionantes geológicos, litologías y al propio flujo de agua subterránea. La velocidad de denudación y formación de cavernas se puede estimar a partir de los parámetros cinéticos e hidráulicos. (2) La erosión producida por las aguas subterráneas genera regolitas de alteración residual en los frentes de erosión, con los subsiguientes afloramientos de rocas inalteradas, inselbergs, rocas oscilantes o llanuras de corrosión de carácter regional. La recolocación de las sales disueltas crea costras superficiales de diferente composición. (3) La erosión de rocas y suelos por procesos ligados al agua subterránea, como filtración y arrastre de finos da lugar a un movimiento de retroceso de taludes y barrancos. La existencia de umbrales y límites de actuación es muy importante en muchas acciones químicas y mecánicas. Una metodología para el estudio de relieves y procesos, basada en aspectos cuantitativos y morfométricos se ejemplifica mediante estudios realizados en rocas carbonatadas y en terrenos clásticos de diferentes edades.

Geochemistry and the understanding of ground-water systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Glynn, Pierre D.; Plummer, L. Niel

2005-03-01

Geochemistry has contributed significantly to the understanding of ground-water systems over the last 50 years. Historic advances include development of the hydrochemical facies concept, application of equilibrium theory, investigation of redox processes, and radiocarbon dating. Other hydrochemical concepts, tools, and techniques have helped elucidate mechanisms of flow and transport in ground-water systems, and have helped unlock an archive of paleoenvironmental information. Hydrochemical and isotopic information can be used to interpret the origin and mode of ground-water recharge, refine estimates of time scales of recharge and ground-water flow, decipher reactive processes, provide paleohydrological information, and calibrate ground-water flow models. Progress needs to be made in obtaining representative samples. Improvements are needed in the interpretation of the information obtained, and in the construction and interpretation of numerical models utilizing hydrochemical data. The best approach will ensure an optimized iterative process between field data collection and analysis, interpretation, and the application of forward, inverse, and statistical modeling tools. Advances are anticipated from microbiological investigations, the characterization of natural organics, isotopic fingerprinting, applications of dissolved gas measurements, and the fields of reaction kinetics and coupled processes. A thermodynamic perspective is offered that could facilitate the comparison and understanding of the multiple physical, chemical, and biological processes affecting ground-water systems. La géochimie a contribué de façon importante à la compréhension des systèmes d'eaux souterraines pendant les 50 dernières années. Les avancées ont portées sur le développement du concept des faciès hydrochimiques, sur l'application de la théorie des équilibres, l'étude des processus d'oxydoréduction, et sur la datation au radiocarbone. D'autres concepts, outils et techniques, ont aidé à l' élucidation des élucider les mécanismes d'écoulement et de transport dans les systèmes d'eaux souterraines, et à la compréhension des archives informations paléo-environnementales. Les informations hydrochimiques et isotopiques peuvent être utilisées pour interpréter l'origine et le mode de recharge des eaux souterraines, affiner l'estimation des temps de recharge et d' écoulements, déchiffrer les processus de réaction, apporter une meilleure information paléohydrogéologique et calibrer les modèles d'écoulement des eaux souterraines. Beaucoup de progrès ont besoin d'être réalisés pour obtenir des échantillons représentatifs. Des améliorations sont nécessaires dans l'interprétation des informations obtenues, et dans la construction et l'interprétation de modèles numériques utilisant des données hydrochimiques. La meilleure approches arsurément un processus itératif optimisé entre la collection de données de terrain et l'analyse, l'interprétation, et l'application d'outils de modélisation statistique, inverse et direct. Des avancées sont anticipées par les dans le demeine des études microbiologiques, dans la caractérisation des matières organiques naturelles, le marquage isotopique, les mesures de gaz dissous, les réactions cinétiques la compréhension des couplages. Une perspectives thermodynamique pourraient faciliter la comparaison et la compréhension des multiples processus physiques, chimiques et biologiques qui affectent les systèmes hydrogéologiques. La geoquímica ha contribuido significativamente al entendimiento de los sistemas de aguas subterráneas durante los últimos 50 años. Entre los avances históricos puede incluirse el desarrollo del concento de facies hidroquímicas, la aplicación de la teoría de equilibrio, investigación de los procesos oxidación-reducción, y datación con radiocarbono. Otros conceptos, herramientas y técnicas hidroquímicas han ayudado a esclarecer los mecanismos de flujo y transporte en sistemas de agua subterránea, y han ayudado a descifrar un archivo de información paleoambiental. Información hidroquímica e isotópica puede utilizarse para interpretar el origen y modo de recarga de agua subterránea, descifrar procesos reactivos, aportar información paleohidrológica, y calibrar modelos de flujo de agua subterránea. Necesita avanzarse en la obtención de muestras representativas. Se necesitan mejoras en la interpretación de la información obtenida y en la construcción e interpretación de modelos numéricos que utilizan datos hidroquímicos. El mejor enfoque asegurará un proceso iterativo optimizado entre toma y análisis de datos de campo, interpretación, y la aplicación de herramientas de modelizado estadísticas, directas, e inversas. Se anticipan avancesa partir de investigaciones microbiológicas, la caracterización de orgánicos naturales, caracterización isotópica, aplicaciones de mediciones de gas disuelto, y los campos de cinética de reacción y procesos acoplados. Se ofrece una perspectiva termodinámica que podría facilitar la comparación y entendimiento de los múltiples procesos físicos, químicos, y biológicos que afectan sistemas de aguas subterráneas.

Spectroscopie Raman et Rayleigh stimulée des mélasses optiques unidimensionnelles (partie I)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Courtois, Jean-Yves

In this paper, we present a detailed theoretical investigation of the transmission spectra of a weak probe beam through one-dimensional optical molasses in the so-called linperp lin and σ^+-σ- laser configurations. We show that the resonant structures displayed by the spectra in both situations can be interpreted in terms of stimulated Raman or Rayleigh scattering and that they provide important information about the physical properties of the molasses. The paper is divided into two main parts. In order to emphasize the specificity of the stimulated scattering processes taking place in optical molasses, we present in a first part the main characteristics of the stimulated Raman and Rayleigh processes occurring in conventional atomic and molecular media. Section 2 is devoted to stimulated Raman scattering, which is associated with the presence of scattering particles having differently populated nondegenerate states. In the case of atomic vapours, which is traditionnally not discussed in textbooks, we demonstrate the occurrence of stimulated Raman transitions between differently populated and light shifted ground state Zeeman sublevels, which manifest themselves on pump-probe transmission spectra in the form of Lorentzian resonances having a width of the order of the optical pumping rate. Section 3 presents a more detailed study of stimulated Rayleigh scattering, which is associated with the modulation of nonpropagating observables (i.e., of observables whose dynamics does not contain any eigen evolution frequency) by the interference pattern between a probe and a pump field, and with the existence of a physical mechanism responsible for a phase shift between the time and spatial modulation of the observables and the pump-probe excitation. By considering the most generally encountered situation where the phase shift arises from a relaxation mechanism taking place in the material medium, and where stimulated Rayleigh scattering manifests itself in the form of a dispersive resonance having a width equal to twice the associated relaxation rate, we identify three classification criteria for the stimulated Rayleigh mechanisms, involving the characteristics of the scattering medium, of the relaxation process occurring in the medium, and of the excitation mechanism of the medium by the probe field, respectively. This classification scheme is then employed on the one hand in the case of dense molecular media, where stimulated Rayleigh-wing scattering (associated with the laser-induced orientation of anisotropic molecules) is discussed, together with the so-called electrostrictive and thermodiffusive Rayleigh scattering mechanisms (related to a spatial modulation of the molecular density); and on the other hand in the case of dilute atomic vapours, where one distinguishes between two-level atoms (for which the Rayleigh resonance is interpreted in terms of quantum interference between photon scattering processes), and multilevel atoms (where stimulated Rayleigh scattering involves optical pumping induced relaxation of internal observable modulations). The second part of the paper is devoted to the investigation of the stimulated Raman and Rayleigh processes taking place in one-dimensional optical molasses. These processes exhibit outstanding characteristics because of the entanglement between internal and external degrees of freedom of the atoms, which is an intrinsic feature of the cooling mechanisms. Section 4 discusses the case of linperp lin molasses. We restrict ourselves to the situation of a J_g=1/2→ J_e=3/2 atomic transition, and to the limit where the dissipative part of the atom-laser coupling is negligible compared to the Hamiltonian part (oscillating regime of Sisyphus cooling). We first consider stimulated Raman processes between quantized vibrational states of the atoms at the bottom of the optical potential wells associated with the light shifts of the ground state Zeeman sublevels, and we demonstrate the occurrence of a lengthening of the lifetime of the coherences between the vibrational levels due to the strong spatial atomic localization (Lamb-Dicke effect). Stimulated Rayleigh resonances sensitive to the probe polarization are also predicted in the center of the spectra. These structures are interpreted in terms of diffraction of the cooling beams onto time-modulated density or magnetization gratings induced by the probe beam, and we show that these resonances provide information about the dynamical properties of the medium and the anti-ferromagnetic spatial order of the atoms in the molasses. Indications about the treatment of atomic transition having larger angular momenta are given by considering more particularly the situation of the J_g=4→ J_e=5 transition of cesium, for which an inversion of the stimulated Rayleigh resonance is predicted, which is related to the resonant variation of the populations of the vibrational levels with the otpical potential depth. Section 5 is devoted to the case of the σ^+-σ- molasses. We consider the case of a J_g=1→ J_e=2 atomic transition, and we restrict ourselves to the limit where the steady-state momentum distribution lies within the linearity range of the cooling force. Under such conditions, it is possible to account for the external atomic dynamics through a Fokker-Planck equation derived by adiabatically eliminating the atomic internal degrees of freedom. One investigates on the one hand the stimulated Raman processes taking place between the ground state Zeeman sublevels, indicating the occurrence of differences in the populations and light shifts in the ground state, and on the other hand the stimulated Rayleigh processes providing information about the dynamics of the external degrees of freedom. One considers two polarization configurations for the probe beam, depending on the probe polarization's being identical or opposite to the circular polarization of the copropagating pump beam. In the former case, it is shown that the stimulated Raman lines are homogeneously broadened, and that a stimulated Rayleigh structure appears on the spectra because of the probe-induced time modulation of the cooling force, which induces a modulation of the atomic momentum distribution. In the latter situation, the Raman structures are inhomogeneously broadened, and a recoil-induced resonance is predicted in the center of the spectrum. Its shape corresponds to the derivative of a Gaussian curve and its width is directly proportional to the Doppler width of the molasses. Finally, Section 6 presents a short review about the recent developments in the field of nonlinear spectroscopy of optical molasses. Cet article s'inscrit dans le double contexte de la spectroscopie non linéaire des milieux atomiques et de la physique du refroidissement d'atomes neutres par laser. Il présente une étude détaillée des spectres de transmission d'une onde sonde interagissant avec une mélasse optique unidimensionnelle. Plus précisément, nous montrons que dans chacun des deux cas modèles des mélasses “linperp lin” et “σ^+-σ^-” (ainsi dénommées par référence à la configuration de polarisation des deux faisceaux lasers à l'origine du mécanisme de refroidissement), les spectres pompes-sonde présentent des structures résonnantes pouvant s'interpréter en termes de diffusion Raman ou Rayleigh stimulée, et apportant un grand nombre d'informations sur les propriétés physiques des mélasses optiques. Cet article s'articule autour de deux grandes parties. Destinée à faire ultérieurement ressortir la spécificité des processus de diffusion stimulée se produisant dans les mélasses optiques, la première est consacrée à une présentation générale des processus Raman et Rayleigh stimulés se produisant dans les milieux atomiques et moléculaires conventionnels. L'effet Raman stimulé, lié à l'existence de centres diffuseurs ayant des états d'énergies et de populations différentes, fait l'objet du paragraphe 2. Dans le cas des vapeurs atomiques, traditionnellement moins connu que celui des molécules, on met ainsi en évidence l'existence de transitions Raman stimulées entre sous-niveaux Zeeman ayant des populations et des déplacements lumineux différents, qui se manifestent sur le spectre de transmission d'une onde sonde sous la forme de résonances lorentziennes en absorption et en amplification ayant une largeur de l'ordre du taux de pompage optique. Le paragraphe 3 présente une étude plus détaillée de l'effet Rayleigh stimulé, associé à l'excitation d'observables non propagatives (c'est-à-dire dont la dynamique ne contient aucune fréquence propre d'évolution) dans le milieu diffuseur sous l'action de l'interférence entre un champ pompe et une onde sonde, et à l'existence d'un mécanisme conduisant à un déphasage de la modulation spatiale et temporelle des observables par rapport à l'excitation pompe-sonde. En considérant le cas le plus couramment répandu où le déphasage est lié à l'existence d'un mécanisme de relaxation dans le milieu diffuseur, et où la diffusion Rayleigh stimulée se manifeste généralement sous la forme de résonances dispersives ayant pour demi-largeur le taux de relaxation associé, nous dégageons trois critères de classification des mécanismes de diffusion Rayleigh stimulée portant sur les caractéristiques du milieu diffuseur, du processus de relaxation intervenant dans ce milieu, et du mécanisme d'excitation du milieu par l'onde sonde. Cette classification est alors utilisée d'une part dans le cas des milieux moléculaires denses, où l'on décrit successivement les effets “Rayleigh-wing” (lié à l'orientation de molécules anisotropes le long du champ électrique local), Rayleigh électrostrictif diffusif et Rayleigh thermodiffusif (dus à une modulation spatiale de la densité) ; et d'autre part dans le cas des vapeurs atomiques, où l'on distingue le cas des atomes à deux niveaux (pour lequel une interprétation de la résonance Rayleigh est donnée en termes d'interférence quantique entre processus de diffusion de photons), puis la situation des atomes possédant plusieurs sous-niveaux Zeeman dégénérés dans le niveau fondamental (où l'effet Rayleigh stimulé est lié au pompage optique et à la création d'observables atomiques). La seconde partie de cet article porte sur l'étude des processus Raman et Rayleigh stimulés dans les mélasses optiques unidimensionnelles, dont la grande originalité réside dans l'imbrication intime entre les degrés de liberté internes et externes des atomes, qui est à l'origine même des mécanismes de refroidissement. Le paragraphe 4 est consacré à l'étude des mélasses linperp lin. On considère le cas d'une transition J_g=1/2→ J_e=3/2, et l'on se restreint aux situations pour lesquelles la partie dissipative du couplage atome-laser est négligeable devant la partie hamiltonienne (régime oscillant du refroidissement Sisyphe). On étudie les processus Raman stimulés entre niveaux vibrationnels quantifiés des atomes au fond des puits du potentiel optique associé aux déplacements lumineux des sous-niveaux Zeeman, et l'on met en évidence un phénomène d'allongement de la durée de vie des cohérences entre niveaux de vibration lié à la forte localisation spatiale des atomes (effet Lamb-Dicke). Des résonances Rayleigh stimulées très sensibles à la polarisation de la sonde sont également prédites au centre des spectres. Une interprétation de ces structures est donnée en termes de diffraction des faisceaux de refroidissement sur des réseaux de densité ou de magnétisation modulés temporellement par la sonde, et l'on montre que ces résonances donnent des informations sur les propriétés dynamiques du milieu, ainsi que sur l'ordre spatial anti-ferromagnétique des atomes. Des indications sur le traitement de transitions atomiques de moment cinétique plus élevé sont données, et l'on discute plus particulièrement le cas de la transition J_g=4→ J_e=5 du césium, où l'on prédit un processus de renversement de la résonance Rayleigh lié à une dépendance résonnante des populations des niveaux vibrationnels en fonction de la profondeur des puits de potentiel. Le paragraphe 5 est consacré à l'étude des mélasses σ^+-σ^-. On considère le cas d'une transition J_g=1→ J_e=2, et l'on se restreint aux situations pour lesquelles la distribution stationnaire d'impulsion est contenue dans le domaine de linéarité de la force de refroidissement. Dans ces conditions, il est possible de décrire la dynamique des degrés de liberté externes de l'atome au moyen d'une équation de Fokker-Planck, après élimination adiabatique des variables atomiques internes. On étudie d'une part les processus Raman stimulés entre sous-niveaux Zeeman mettant en évidence l'existence de différences de populations et de déplacements lumineux dans l'état fondamental, et d'autre part les processus Rayleigh stimulés donnant accès aux temps de relaxation des variables externes. On envisage deux cas de polarisation pour l'onde sonde, selon que le faisceau pompe avec lequel elle se copropage a une polarisation circulaire identique ou opposée à celle de la sonde. Dans le premier cas, on montre que les résonances Raman ne subissent pas d'élargissement inhomogène. Il est également montré qu'une résonance Rayleigh apparaît sur les spectres, due à la modulation temporelle de la force de refroidissement par la sonde, qui induit une modulation de la distribution d'impulsion atomique. Cette résonance a une largeur proportionnelle au coefficient de friction de la force de refroidissement. Dans le second cas, on met en évidence un processus d'élargissement inhomogène des résonances Raman, ainsi qu'une résonance centrale de type Raman induite par le recul ayant la forme d'une dérivée de gaussienne de largeur proportionnelle à la largeur Doppler de la mélasse. Finalement, le paragraphe 6 conclut l'article par un résumé des principaux développements enregistrés au cours des dernières années dans le domaine de la spectroscopie non linéaire des mélasses optiques.

Le transfert de connaissances entre les mathematiques et les sciences. Une etude exploratoire aupres d'eleves de 4e secondaire

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Samson, Ghislain

2003-06-01

Au moment ou dans plusieurs pays on travaille a refondre les programmes d'etudes, tant au primaire qu'au secondaire, l'interet pour le transfert renait. Un des concepts fondamentaux en apprentissage consiste en l'habilete a reutiliser de facon consciente et efficace un acquis d'une situation a une autre situation. Cette recherche emane de preoccupations professionnelles au moment ou le chercheur etait enseignant au secondaire. Au cours de ces annees, il lui a ete possible de constater que plusieurs eleves percevaient difficilement les liens presents entre les disciplines mathematiques et scientifiques. Des travaux en psychologie cognitive et plus particulierement selon une perspective du traitement de l'information ont servi de cadre de reference pour evaluer et analyser les capacites de transfert aupres d'eleves de 4e secondaire. Ce cadre de reference permet de formuler le principal objectif qui est de mieux comprendre le processus de transfert chez des eleves en situation de resolution de problemes scientifiques. Cette these s'interesse donc au transfert en tant que phenomene important du processus d'apprentissage au sens de l'integration. La methode de recherche choisie, de nature qualitative, est principalement axee sur l'evaluation de la capacite a transferer des connaissances lors d'une epreuve et d'un entretien. Pour evaluer ce potentiel de transfert, nous avons elabore deux outils: une epreuve en mathematiques et en sciences et un guide d'entretien. Pour la passation de l'epreuve, le chercheur a pu compter sur la collaboration de 130 sujets provenant de deux ecoles. L'entretien complete la prise de donnees avec 13 sujets ayant accepte de poursuivre l'etude. Les donnees recueillies par ces instruments font ensuite l'objet d'une analyse de contenu. En premier lieu, les verbatims de l'epreuve et de l'entretien ont ete transcrits, puis codifies. La correction des reponses fournies pour les problemes resolus s'est faite a partir d'une grille d'analyse qualitative et adaptee de la litterature (Thouin, 1995). Une seconde serie d'analyses permettant de categoriser les reponses selon la typologie des connaissances declaratives, procedurales et conditionnelles complete la prise de donnees. Nos resultats indiquent que les sujets sont tres influences par des elements de surface, principalement lorsqu'il s'agit de problemes auxquels ils ne sont pas habitues. En l'absence de connaissances de base, plusieurs sujets vont tendre vers des propositions de solution "pratico-pratique" provenant de leur vecu: cela nous apparait d'importance d'un point de vue didactique et en matiere de transfert. Lors des entretiens realises un mois plus tard, les sujets ont eprouve de la difficulte a se rappeler le contenu de l'epreuve. Et lorsqu'il y avait un rappel, celui-ci etait superficiel et surtout axe sur le contenu ou le contexte d'un probleme. La plupart des sujets ne pouvait nommer que deux ou trois elements (des problemes en mathematiques, en sciences physiques, le probleme de la fenetre, le probleme du laser, etc.). Nos resultats confirment ce que plusieurs chercheurs (Julo, 1995, Jonnaert et Vander Borght, 1999; Richard et al., 1990) qui s'interessent aux questions de l'apprentissage admettent aujourd'hui: l'eleve ne travaille jamais sur la situation proposee par l'enseignant, mais bien sur la representation qu'il s'en est construite. Au plan methodologique, cette recherche est interessante par la variete des sources de collecte de donnees utilisees, par l'application d'outils methodologiques et d'analyses originaux tires de la recherche et de la pratique. Du cote theorique, il resulte de cette etude une meilleure comprehension du processus de transfert des connaissances mathematiques vers les sciences physiques. Finalement, aux plans didactique et pedagogique, cette recherche alimente la reflexion sur l'apprentissage et l'enseignement des sciences au secondaire. Elle fait ressortir que les mathematiques sont importantes dans la mobilisation de certaines connaissances scientifiques et que l'enseignant peut et devrait jouer un role pour favoriser le transfert.

Comportement instationnaire des thermoéléments à effet Peltier multi-étages

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Monchoux, F.; Zély, D.; Cordier, A.

1995-01-01

The analysis of thermoelectric phenomena is possible based on non-equilibrium thermodynamics. Integration of the thermal balance equation leads to an analytical solution for the non-stationnary behaviour. The influence to Thomson effect is commmented. The model, introduced in the complete software TRNSYS, permits the modelling of complex systems including such elements in their thermal regulation. La thermodynamique des processus irréversibles permet l'analyse des phénomènes thermoélectriques. Par intégration de l'équation de bilan thermique, on a obtenu une solution analytique pour le régime non stationnaire donnant la température en tous points et le flux absorbé. On a analysé l'influence de l'effet Thomson. Le modèle a été inclu dans le code plus général TRNSYS qui permet la modélisation de systèmes complexes.

Conception et optimisation d'une peau en composite pour une aile adaptative =

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Michaud, Francois

Les preoccupations economiques et environnementales constituent des enjeux majeurs pour le developpement de nouvelles technologies en aeronautique. C'est dans cette optique qu'est ne le projet MDO-505 intitule Morphing Architectures and Related Technologies for Wing Efficiency Improvement. L'objectif de ce projet vise a concevoir une aile adaptative active servant a ameliorer sa laminarite et ainsi reduire la consommation de carburant et les emissions de l'avion. Les travaux de recherche realises ont permis de concevoir et optimiser une peau en composite adaptative permettant d'assurer l'amelioration de la laminarite tout en conservant son integrite structurale. D'abord, une methode d'optimisation en trois etapes fut developpee avec pour objectif de minimiser la masse de la peau en composite en assurant qu'elle s'adapte par un controle actif de la surface deformable aux profils aerodynamiques desires. Le processus d'optimisation incluait egalement des contraintes de resistance, de stabilite et de rigidite de la peau en composite. Suite a l'optimisation, la peau optimisee fut simplifiee afin de faciliter la fabrication et de respecter les regles de conception de Bombardier Aeronautique. Ce processus d'optimisation a permis de concevoir une peau en composite dont les deviations ou erreurs des formes obtenues etaient grandement reduites afin de repondre au mieux aux profils aerodynamiques optimises. Les analyses aerodynamiques realisees a partir de ces formes ont predit de bonnes ameliorations de la laminarite. Par la suite, une serie de validations analytiques fut realisee afin de valider l'integrite structurale de la peau en composite suivant les methodes generalement utilisees par Bombardier Aeronautique. D'abord, une analyse comparative par elements finis a permis de valider une rigidite equivalente de l'aile adaptative a la section d'aile d'origine. Le modele par elements finis fut par la suite mis en boucle avec des feuilles de calcul afin de valider la stabilite et la resistance de la peau en composite pour les cas de chargement aerodynamique reels. En dernier lieu, une analyse de joints boulonnes fut realisee en utilisant un outil interne nomme LJ 85 BJSFM GO.v9 developpe par Bombardier Aeronautique. Ces analyses ont permis de valider numeriquement l'integrite structurale de la peau de composite pour des chargements et des admissibles de materiaux aeronautiques typiques.

Contributions of groundwater conditions to soil and water salinization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salama, Ramsis B.; Otto, Claus J.; Fitzpatrick, Robert W.

Salinization is the process whereby the concentration of dissolved salts in water and soil is increased due to natural or human-induced processes. Water is lost through one or any combination of four main mechanisms: evaporation, evapotranspiration, hydrolysis, and leakage between aquifers. Salinity increases from catchment divides to the valley floors and in the direction of groundwater flow. Salinization is explained by two main chemical models developed by the authors: weathering and deposition. These models are in agreement with the weathering and depositional geological processes that have formed soils and overburden in the catchments. Five soil-change processes in arid and semi-arid climates are associated with waterlogging and water. In all represented cases, groundwater is the main geological agent for transmitting, accumulating, and discharging salt. At a small catchment scale in South and Western Australia, water is lost through evapotranspiration and hydrolysis. Saline groundwater flows along the beds of the streams and is accumulated in paleochannels, which act as a salt repository, and finally discharges in lakes, where most of the saline groundwater is concentrated. In the hummocky terrains of the Northern Great Plains Region, Canada and USA, the localized recharge and discharge scenarios cause salinization to occur mainly in depressions, in conjunction with the formation of saline soils and seepages. On a regional scale within closed basins, this process can create playas or saline lakes. In the continental aquifers of the rift basins of Sudan, salinity increases along the groundwater flow path and forms a saline zone at the distal end. The saline zone in each rift forms a closed ridge, which coincides with the closed trough of the groundwater-level map. The saline body or bodies were formed by evaporation coupled with alkaline-earth carbonate precipitation and dissolution of capillary salts. Résumé La salinisation est le processus par lequel la concentration des sels dissous dans l'eau et les sols s'accroît sous l'effet de processus naturels ou anthropiques. L'eau est perdue par l'une ou l'autre combinaison de quatre principaux mécanismes : l'évaporation, l'évapotranspiration, l'hydrolyse et la drainance entre aquifères. La salinité augmente depuis les limites des bassins jusqu'au fond des vallées et le long des axes d'écoulement souterrain. La salinisation est expliquée au moyen de deux principaux modèles chimiques développés par les auteurs : l'altération et le dépôt. Ces modèles sont en accord avec les processus géologiques d'altération et de dépôt qui ont formé les sols et qui recouvrent les bassins versants. Cinq processus d'évolution de sols sous climats aride et semi-aride sont associés à l'eau et à des formations aquifères. Dans tous les cas présentés, l'eau souterraine est le principal agent géologique qui transporte, accumule et dépose les sels. A l'échelle de petits bassins versants dans le sud et dans l'ouest de l'Australie, l'eau est consommée par évapotranspiration et par hydrolyse. L'eau souterraine salée coule le long des berges de rivières et s'accumule dans des paléochenaux, qui fonctionnent comme des zones de stockage de sels, et finalement s'écoule dans des lacs, où la plupart des eaux salées se concentrent. Dans les formations bosselées des grandes plaines du nord du Canada et des États-Unis, des scénarios d'alimentation et de décharge localisées conduisent la salinisation à se produire surtout dans les dépressions, en association avec la formation de sols et d'infiltrations salins. A l'échelle régionale dans les bassins fermés, ce processus peut être à l'origine de playas ou de lacs salés. Dans les aquifères continentaux des bassins de rift du Soudan, la salinité augmente le long des axes d'écoulement souterrain et forme ainsi une zone saline à leur extrémité. La zone saline de chaque rift constitue une crête, qui coïncide avec le creux piézométrique. Le ou les ensembles salins se sont formés par évaporation couplée à la précipitation d'un carbonate alcalino-terreux et à la dissolution de sels par capillarité. Resumen La salinización es el proceso por el cual la concentración de sales disueltas en el agua o el suelo aumenta por causas naturales o antrópicas. El contenido de agua se reduce por uno o una combinación de los siguientes mecanismos: evaporación, evapotranspiración, hidrólisis y goteo entre acuíferos. La salinidad aumenta en la dirección del flujo subterráneo, desde los puntos de recarga hacia los de descarga. La salinización se puede explicar por dos modelos químicos que se pueden definir como erosión y deposición y que están de acuerdo con los clásicos procesos geológicos que tienen los mismos nombres. Se conocen cinco procesos de salinización de suelos ligados al agua o a la extracción de la misma en climas áridos o semiáridos. En todos los casos que se presentan el agua subterránea es el principal agente geológico de transmisión, acumulación y descarga de sales. A escala de pequeña cuenca, en Australia Occidental y del Sur, el agua se pierde mediante evapotranspiración e hidrólisis. El agua subterránea salina fluye a lo largo de los cauces de los arroyos y se acumula en los paleocanales, que actúan como depósitos, hasta que finalmente descarga en los lagos, donde se acumula la mayor parte de la salinidad. En los hummocks de la Zona Norte de los Grandes Llanos de Canadá y EEUU, la recarga localizada y el tipo de descarga provocan que la salinización tenga lugar fundamentalmente en las depresiones. A escala regional y en cuencas cerradas este mismo mecanismo provoca playas o lagos salinos. En los acuíferos continentales de los rift del Sudán, la salinidad se incrementa a lo largo de las líneas de flujo subterráneo y se concentra en el límite distal. La zona salina en cada rift forma una cresta cerrada que se manifiesta en los mapas piezométricos. El cuerpo o cuerpos salinos se formaron por evaporación, acoplada con la precipitación de carbonatos y la disolución de sales capilares.

Risk-Based Tailoring of the Verification, Validation, and Accreditation/Acceptance Processes (Adaptation fondee sur le risque, des processus de verification, de validation, et d’accreditation/d’acceptation)

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-04-01

Systems Concepts and Integration SET Sensors and Electronics Technology SISO Simulation Interoperability Standards Organization SIW Simulation...conjunction with 2006 Fall SIW 2006 September SISO Standards Activity Committee approved beginning IEEE balloting 2006 October IEEE Project...019 published 2008 June Edinborough, UK Held in conjunction with 2008 Euro- SIW 2008 September Laurel, MD, US Work on Composite Model 2008 December

Proceedings of the International Conference on Algebraic Methodology and Software Technology (2nd) Held in Iowa City, Iowa on May 22-25, 1991.

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-05-25

d’Etat, University of Paris-Sud. [Boudol 84] G. Boudol, An asynchronous calculus MEIJE, in NATO summer school, La - Colle - sur - Loup , France (1984). [Da...on the propositional p-calculus. Theoretical Comput. Sci., 27:333-354, 1983. [12] M. Nivat. Sur la synchronisation des processus. Revue Technique...Meulen, E.A. Deriving In- Traynor, 0., de la Cruz, P., Uniform (Meta- ) De- cremental Implementations from Algebraic Specifica- velopment in the PROSPECTRA

Methodologie de conception numerique d'un ventilateur helico-centrifuge basee sur l'emploi du calcul meridien

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lallier-Daniels, Dominic

La conception de ventilateurs est souvent basée sur une méthodologie « essais/erreurs » d'amélioration de géométries existantes ainsi que sur l'expérience de design et les résultats expérimentaux cumulés par les entreprises. Cependant, cette méthodologie peut se révéler coûteuse en cas d'échec; même en cas de succès, des améliorations significatives en performance sont souvent difficiles, voire impossibles à obtenir. Le projet présent propose le développement et la validation d'une méthodologie de conception basée sur l'emploi du calcul méridien pour la conception préliminaire de turbomachines hélico-centrifuges (ou flux-mixte) et l'utilisation du calcul numérique d'écoulement fluides (CFD) pour la conception détaillée. La méthode de calcul méridien à la base du processus de conception proposé est d'abord présentée. Dans un premier temps, le cadre théorique est développé. Le calcul méridien demeurant fondamentalement un processus itératif, le processus de calcul est également présenté, incluant les méthodes numériques de calcul employée pour la résolution des équations fondamentales. Une validation du code méridien écrit dans le cadre du projet de maîtrise face à un algorithme de calcul méridien développé par l'auteur de la méthode ainsi qu'à des résultats de simulation numérique sur un code commercial est également réalisée. La méthodologie de conception de turbomachines développée dans le cadre de l'étude est ensuite présentée sous la forme d'une étude de cas pour un ventilateur hélico-centrifuge basé sur des spécifications fournies par le partenaire industriel Venmar. La méthodologie se divise en trois étapes: le calcul méridien est employé pour le pré-dimensionnement, suivi de simulations 2D de grilles d'aubes pour la conception détaillée des pales et finalement d'une analyse numérique 3D pour la validation et l'optimisation fine de la géométrie. Les résultats de calcul méridien sont en outre comparés aux résultats de simulation pour la géométrie 3D afin de valider l'emploi du calcul méridien comme outil de prédimensionnement. Mots-clés Turbomachines hélico-centrifuges, Calcul méridien, Simulation numérique d'écoulement fluide, Conception numérique de turbomachines.

Toward the Development of a Canadian Less Lethal Weapon Approval Process: A Study of Contemporary Process Models

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-10-01

la Reine (en droit du Canada), telle que représentée par le ministre de la Défense nationale, 2011...validés par l’autorité d’approbation. Lorsqu’il n’existe pas de normes officielles, on utilise une approche de gestion du risque qui comprend une plus...gouvernance qui reprend les éléments clés du modèles du Royaume-Uni, l’incorporation d’un processus de gestion du risque, un énoncé des

Filtrage Lineaire par Morceaux Avec Petit Bruit d’Observation (Piecewise Linear Filtering with Small Observation Noise)

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-11-19

stir divers exemple-s le comportement des filtres l)r0pose5 par ra.)pDort ceux du processus estliner et dti filtre optimal obtenu de fa~on approch6e...Piecewise monotone filtering with small observation noise, Siam J., Control Optim. 20, 261-285, 1989 . Vii [10 W.ll. Fleming and R.W. Rishel...Milbeiro, de Oliveira : Filtres approch~s pour un probl~me de filtrage non lin~aire discret avec petit bruit d’observation,rapport INVRIA, 1142. 1989

Retour vers le futur: l'expérience des patients et le lien avec la qualité, la sécurité et le rendement financier.

PubMed

Cochrane, Bonnie S; Hagins, Mitch; King, John A; Picciano, Gino; McCafferty, Maureen M; Nelson, Brian

2015-11-01

Au Canada, l'amélioration de l'expérience des patients est devenue une priorité des politiques de santé. Le perfectionnement et la normalisation des outils et systèmes pour surveiller les mesures de l'expérience des patients augmentent, tandis que la tendance vers une plus grande reddition de compte sur des améliorations durables et abordables se confirme. Pour de nombreux professionnels de la santé, ce phénomène fait foi d'un intérêt renouvelé pour les besoins et priorités fondamentaux des patients, après des décennies où les changements structurels et technologiques ont dominé les programmes de santé. Pour les leaders en santé canadiens, l'amélioration de l'expérience des patients comporte actuellement de grands défis et de belles possibilités. À cet égard, l'expérience des organisations partenaires du groupe Studer au Canada est à la fois pertinente et instructive. Ces organisations ont adopté un modèle, du nom de Evidence-Based Leadership (EBL, ou leadership fondé sur des données probantes), qui favorise et soutient l'harmonisation de l'ensemble des activités et des comportements, conformément à des objectifs organisationnels précis, y compris des améliorations mesurables de l'expérience des patients. Le présent article expose des études de cas d'organisations qui ont adopté l'EBL. Ces organisations ont réalisé des progrès rapides en matière d'indicateurs de l'expérience des patients, ainsi que dans des secteurs essentiels comme les résultats cliniques, la sécurité et le rendement financier. Les données émergentes sur les facteurs et processus qui sous-tendent ces améliorations sont également abordées. © 2015 Collège canadien des leaders en santé

Le don après un décès d'origine cardiocirculatoire au Canada

PubMed Central

Shemie, Sam D.; Baker, Andrew J.; Knoll, Greg; Wall, William; Rocker, Graeme; Howes, Daniel; Davidson, Janet; Pagliarello, Joe; Chambers-Evans, Jane; Cockfield, Sandra; Farrell, Catherine; Glannon, Walter; Gourlay, William; Grant, David; Langevin, Stéphan; Wheelock, Brian; Young, Kimberly; Dossetor, John

2006-01-01

Résumé Ces recommandations sont le fruit d'un processus multidisciplinaire national ayant duré un an et visant à déterminer si et comment l'on pourrait procéder au don d'organes après un décès d'origine cardiocirculatoire («don après le décès cardiocirculatoire», ou DDC) au Canada. Le forum national organisé en février 2005 a permis aux participants de discuter et d'élaborer des recommandations sur les principes, interventions et pratiques se rapportant au DDC. Les aspects éthiques et juridiques ont été abordés dans les discussions. À la fin du Forum, la majorité des participants ont été favorables à l'implantation de programmes de DDC au Canada. Les participants du Forum ont également convenu qu'il fallait formuler et prôner des valeurs fondamentales pour orienter l'élaboration de programmes et de protocoles basés sur le cadre médical, éthique et juridique établi lors de cette réunion. Même si la possibilité d'un don d'organes et de tissus doit faire partie intégrante des soins de fin de vie, il faut insister sur le fait que le devoir de diligence envers les patients mourants et leurs familles doit demeurer la priorité des équipes soignantes. La complexité et les répercussions profondes du décès sont reconnues et doivent être respectées, de même que les différences personnelles, ethnoculturelles et religieuses face à la mort et au don d'organes. Les décisions d'arrêter le traitement de maintien des fonctions vitales, la prise en charge des derniers moments de la vie et le diagnostic de décès selon des critères cardiocirculatoires doivent être distincts et indépendants des processus de don et transplantation. Ce rapport contient des recommandations destinées aux gestionnaires de program, aux autorités sanitaires régionales et aux instances appelés à élaborer les protocoles de DDC. Les programmes doivent être conçus en fonction des éléments suivants : direction et planification locales, éducation et engagement des intervenants, mécanismes d'assurance de la sécurité et de la qualité et information du public. Il est recommandé de commencer par un program de DDC contrôlé à l'unité de soins intensifs où, après une décision par consentement mutuel de cesser le traitement de maintien des fonctions vitales, la mort est attendue, mais n'est pas survenue, ce qui rend possible des discussions non précipitées sur le consentement. Un don non contrôlé, en cas de décès après un arrêt cardiaque non prévu, doit être envisagé seulement une fois que le program de DDC contrôlé a été établi. Bien qu'il soit recommandé de restreindre le programme initial au don de reins, le don d'autres organes peut aussi être envisagé selon l'expertise régionale en matière de transplantation. Les répercussions d'un DDC, y compris les interventions pratiquées avant et après le décès, sur la famille du donneur, la disponibilité des organes, la fonction du greffon et la survie du receveur doivent être documentées de façon méthodique et examinées.

La biogenèse des mélanosomes

PubMed Central

Delevoye, Cédric; Giordano, Francesca; van Niel, Guillaume; Raposo, Graça

2012-01-01

Les mélanocytes situés à la base de l’épiderme produisent des mélanosomes qui sont transférés aux kératinocytes pour assurer la pigmentation de l’épiderme et sa photoprotection contre les rayons ultraviolets. Les mélanosomes, organites apparentés aux lysosomes, sont le lieu de synthèse et de stockage d’un pigment, la mélanine. Leur formation dépend de protéines mélanosomales qui transitent par les voies de biosynthèse et d’endocytose et exploitent les mécanismes moléculaires du trafic intracellulaire. Les acteurs moléculaires impliqués dans le transport des protéines mélanosomales et la biogenèse des mélanosomes sont la cible de mutations dans des maladies génétiques accompagnées d’hypopigmentation comme l’albinisme et les maladies lysosomales. Les études menées sur les mélanocytes issus de souris modèles de ces maladies permettent de comprendre certaines des étapes-clés de la mélanogenèse ainsi que les dysfonctionnements associés à ces pathologies. De plus, décrypter la mélanogenèse facilite également la compréhension d’autres processus physiologiques, comme l’illustrent les similitudes inattendues avec l’amyloïdogenèse dans les maladies neurodégénératives. PMID:21382323

Otite externe maligne à Candida Albicans

PubMed Central

Elayoubi, Fahd; Lachkar, Azeddine; Aabach, Ahmed; Chouai, Mohamed; Ghailan, Mohamed Rachid

2016-01-01

L’otite externe maligne est une ostéomyélite de la base du crane. Le Pseudomonas aeruginosa est le germe le plus incriminé. Cependant l’origine fongique n’est pas rare. Patiente âgée de 80 ans avait présenté une otalgie gauche persistante depuis deux mois malgré un traitement bien conduit. L’examen otologique mettait en évidence des signes inflammatoires au niveau du pavillon, une sténose du conduit avec des granulomes, et otorrhée d’allure purulente. Le scanner montrait un comblement otomastoïdien, un processus inflammatoire extensif des tissus pré et rétro-auriculaire et une lyse du tympanal. Vu l’absence d’amélioration un examen mycologique a été réalisé et qui a révélé la présence de Candida Albicans. Les cas d’otite externe maligne à Candida Albicans sont rarement rapportés. L’origine fongique doit être suspecté devant la négativité des prélèvements bactériologiques et la non amélioration malgré un traitement antibiotique bien conduit, et confirmée par des prélèvements mycologiques parfois multiples. L’otite externe maligne à Candida Albicans est une infection rare potentiellement mortelle. PMID:28154677

Guide de pratique clinique pour les lésions cérébrales traumatiques légères et les symptômes persistants

PubMed Central

Marshall, Shawn; Bayley, Mark; McCullagh, Scott; Velikonja, Diana; Berrigan, Lindsay

2012-01-01

Résumé Objectif Présenter les nouvelles lignes directrices sur la prise en charge des lésions cérébrales traumatiques légères (LCTL) et les symptômes persistants post-commotion (SPPC) afin de renseigner et d’orienter les médecins qui prennent en charge des patients qui se remettent d’une LCTL. Qualité des données On a effectué une recherche des guides de pratique clinique existants portant sur les LCTL et une synthèse critique des ouvrages scientifiques évaluant le traitement des SPPC. Étant donné la rareté des conseils sur la prise en charge des SPPC dans les travaux sur les lésions cérébrales traumatiques, une deuxième recherche documentaire a été faite pour recenser les guides de pratique clinique et les synthèses critiques concernant la prise en charge de ces symptômes communs dans la population en général. On a convoqué des professionnels de la santé provenant de différentes disciplines et régions du Canada et de l’étranger à une conférence consensuelle d’experts pour examiner les lignes directrices et les données probantes existantes et élaborer un guide complet pour la prise en charge des LCTL et des SPPC. Message principal À l’aide d’un processus Delphi modifié, on a produit 71 recommandations portant sur le diagnostic et la prise en charge des LCTL et des SPPC. De plus, on a inclus dans le guide de nombreuses ressources et des outils pour faciliter la mise en œuvre des recommandations. Conclusion Un guide de pratique clinique a été élaboré pour aider les professionnels de la santé à fournir des soins fondés sur les données probantes et les pratiques exemplaires à la population complexe de personnes qui ont des SPPC à la suite d’une LCTL.

Relation of streams, lakes, and wetlands to groundwater flow systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Winter, Thomas C.

Surface-water bodies are integral parts of groundwater flow systems. Groundwater interacts with surface water in nearly all landscapes, ranging from small streams, lakes, and wetlands in headwater areas to major river valleys and seacoasts. Although it generally is assumed that topographically high areas are groundwater recharge areas and topographically low areas are groundwater discharge areas, this is true primarily for regional flow systems. The superposition of local flow systems associated with surface-water bodies on this regional framework results in complex interactions between groundwater and surface water in all landscapes, regardless of regional topographic position. Hydrologic processes associated with the surface-water bodies themselves, such as seasonally high surface-water levels and evaporation and transpiration of groundwater from around the perimeter of surface-water bodies, are a major cause of the complex and seasonally dynamic groundwater flow fields associated with surface water. These processes have been documented at research sites in glacial, dune, coastal, mantled karst, and riverine terrains. Résumé Les eaux de surface sont parties intégrantes des systèmes aquifères. Les eaux souterraines interagissent avec les eaux de surface dans presque tous les types d'environnements, depuis les petits ruisseaux, les lacs et les zones humides jusqu'aux bassins versants des vallées des grands fleuves et aux lignes de côte. Il est en général admis que les zones topographiquement hautes sont des lieux de recharge des aquifères et les zones basses des lieux de décharge, ce qui est le cas des grands systèmes aquifères régionaux. La superposition de systèmes locaux, associés à des eaux de surface, à l'organisation régionale d'écoulements souterrains résulte d'interactions complexes entre les eaux souterraines et les eaux de surface dans tous les environnements, quelle que soit la situation topographique régionale. Les processus hydrologiques associés aux eaux de surface elles-mêmes, tels que des niveaux d'eau de surface saisonnièrement hauts et l'évaporation et la transpiration de l'eau souterraine à la périphérie des eaux de surface, sont les causes essentielles de la dynamique complexe et saisonnière des nappes associées aux eaux de surface. Ces processus ont été mis en évidence sur des sites de recherche dans des formations glaciaires, dunaires, littorales, fluviales et de karst couvert. Resumen Los cuerpos de aguas superficiales son partes integrales de los sistemas de flujo subterráneo. El agua subterránea interactúa con la superficial en prácticamente todo tipo de paisajes, desde pequeños torrentes, lagos y humedales, hasta grandes valles fluviales y costas. Aunque se suele asumir que las áreas topográficamente elevadas son zonas de recarga de aguas subterráneas, mientras las áreas topográficamente más bajas lo son de descarga, esto es cierto básicamente para los sistemas de flujo regional. Al superponer los sistemas de flujo local, asociados a los cuerpos de agua superficial, a las condiciones regionales, resultan interacciones complejas, y esto ocurre independientemente de su posición topográfica. Los procesos hidrológicos asociados con los propios cuerpos de agua superficial, como los niveles superficiales máximos estacionales y la evapotranspiración de agua subterránea en los perímetros de cuerpos superficiales, son una de las principales causas de la complejidad y de las variaciones dinámicas de las interacciones entre aguas subterráneas y superficiales. Estos procesos se han documentado en distintas zonas investigadas, incluyendo depósitos glaciares, dunas, áreas costeras, karsts y terrazas fluviales.

Les tuberculomes intracraniens: à propos de 125 cas

PubMed Central

Moufid, Faycal; Oulali, Noureddine; El Fatemi, Nizare; Gana, Rachid; Maaqili, Rachid; Bellakhdar, Fouad

2012-01-01

Les tuberculomes intracrâniens représentent l'une des localisations les plus graves de la tuberculose, leur incidence varie en fonction du contexte représentant 0,2% des processus intracrâniens dans les pays occidentaux et 5 à 10% des masses intracrâniennes dans les pays en voie de développement. Nous rapportons une étude rétrospective de 125 cas. L'hypertension intracrânienne (45%) et le déficit neurologique (36%) sont les signes cliniques les plus fréquents. La lésion était localisée dans 60% des cas en sus-tentoriel et dans 40% des cas en sous-tentoriel. L'approche thérapeutique a consisté en un abord direct du tuberculome dans 67 cas (53%), une biopsie stéréotaxique dans 32 cas (25%), le traitement médical en première intention sans confirmation histologique dans 26 cas (20%). Avant 1993 notre service ne disposait pas de cadre de stéréotaxie, notre attitude thérapeutique consistait soit en un abord direct de la lésion dans 70% des cas, soit un traitement antituberculeux en première intention sans confirmation histologique (30%). Cette attitude était corrélée à une mortalité et morbidité non négligeables respectivement 3% et 10%. Après 1993; le taux d'abords direct a chuté a 38%, avec 47% de biopsies stéréotaxiques et seulement 13% des patients traités par antibacillaires sans preuve histologique. Ceci s'est accompagné d'une réduction significative de mortalité a 1,4% (p = 0,0003) et de morbidité a 2% (p = 0,0027). PMID:22937196

Tensions entre rationalité technique et intérêts politiques : l’exemple de la mise en œuvre de la Loi sur les agences de développement de réseaux locaux de services de santé et de services sociaux au Québec

PubMed Central

Contandriopoulos, D.; Hudon, Raymond; Martin, Elisabeth; Thompson, Daniel

2013-01-01

Sommaire L’objet de cet article est constitué par les processus décisionnels entourant la mise en œuvre de la Loi sur les agences de développement de réseaux locaux de services de santé et de services sociaux (Loi 25). Nous entendons mettre en lumière les stratégies des groupes ou institutions de diverses natures qui ont fait valoir leurs préférences et ont tenté, avec un succès inégal, d’influencer les décisions relatives à cette réforme majeure de la structure du système de santé québécois. Au plan théorique, nous nous appuyons principalement sur les modèles d’analyse du lobbying qui, depuis les travaux fondateurs de Milbrath (1960, 1963), présentent cette pratique comme un processus fondamental d’échange d’information. Selon les données colligées dans les retranscriptions d’entrevues, les stratégies observées correspondent effectivement aux caractéristiques constitutives du lobbying et, dans quelques situations, à celles du patronage. La combinaison de ces divers éléments révèle que la mise en œuvre de la Loi 25 s’avère être avant tout un processus proprement politique. Ainsi, furent relégués au second plan les arguments techniques qui composaient initialement les objectifs de la Loi. PMID:23509412

Prediction du profil de durete de l'acier AISI 4340 traite thermiquement au laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maamri, Ilyes

Les traitements thermiques de surfaces sont des procedes qui visent a conferer au coeur et a la surface des pieces mecaniques des proprietes differentes. Ils permettent d'ameliorer la resistance a l'usure et a la fatigue en durcissant les zones critiques superficielles par des apports thermiques courts et localises. Parmi les procedes qui se distinguent par leur capacite en terme de puissance surfacique, le traitement thermique de surface au laser offre des cycles thermiques rapides, localises et precis tout en limitant les risques de deformations indesirables. Les proprietes mecaniques de la zone durcie obtenue par ce procede dependent des proprietes physicochimiques du materiau a traiter et de plusieurs parametres du procede. Pour etre en mesure d'exploiter adequatement les ressources qu'offre ce procede, il est necessaire de developper des strategies permettant de controler et regler les parametres de maniere a produire avec precision les caracteristiques desirees pour la surface durcie sans recourir au classique long et couteux processus essai-erreur. L'objectif du projet consiste donc a developper des modeles pour predire le profil de durete dans le cas de traitement thermique de pieces en acier AISI 4340. Pour comprendre le comportement du procede et evaluer les effets des differents parametres sur la qualite du traitement, une etude de sensibilite a ete menee en se basant sur une planification experimentale structuree combinee a des techniques d'analyse statistiques eprouvees. Les resultats de cette etude ont permis l'identification des variables les plus pertinentes a exploiter pour la modelisation. Suite a cette analyse et dans le but d'elaborer un premier modele, deux techniques de modelisation ont ete considerees, soient la regression multiple et les reseaux de neurones. Les deux techniques ont conduit a des modeles de qualite acceptable avec une precision d'environ 90%. Pour ameliorer les performances des modeles a base de reseaux de neurones, deux nouvelles approches basees sur la caracterisation geometrique du profil de durete ont ete considerees. Contrairement aux premiers modeles predisant le profil de durete en fonction des parametres du procede, les nouveaux modeles combinent les memes parametres avec les attributs geometriques du profil de durete pour refleter la qualite du traitement. Les modeles obtenus montrent que cette strategie conduit a des resultats tres prometteurs.

Histoire d’un itinéraire épidémiologique entre le Burkina Faso et la Côte d’Ivoire : le cas des foyers de maladie du sommeil de Koudougou

PubMed Central

Kiendrébéogo, D.; Kambiré, R.; Jamonneau, V.; Lingué, K.; Solano, P.; Courtin, F.

2012-01-01

Dans la première moitié du XXème siècle, alors que la Haute-Volta (actuel Burkina Faso) subissait une terrible épidémie de maladie du sommeil, l’administration coloniale française a orchestré des déplacements massifs de populations de la Haute-Volta vers la Côte d’Ivoire, pour exploiter le territoire. Cela a conduit à la mise en place de villages de colonisation Mossi en zone forestière ivoirienne, comme ceux de Koudougou, issus de l’une des régions les plus peuplées de Haute-Volta, mais aussi l’une des plus touchées par la maladie du sommeil. Depuis 2000, au Burkina Faso, c’est dans le district sanitaire de Koudougou que sont dépistés passivement le plus grand nombre de trypanosomés en provenance de Côte d’Ivoire. Qui sont-ils ? Où habitent-ils au Burkina Faso ? D’où viennent-ils de Côte d’Ivoire ? Après avoir retracé l’histoire épidémiologique des villages de Koudougou au Burkina Faso et en Côte d’Ivoire, nous avons recherché les trypanosomés dépistés passivement depuis 2000 dans le district sanitaire de Koudougou au Burkina Faso. Au total, dix trypanosomés ont été enquêtés. Le processus de propagation de la maladie du sommeil dans l’espace ivoiro-burkinabé a été mis en évidence et des zones à risque de la maladie identifiées dans ce même espace. PMID:23193525

Etude de la Production de Paires de Leptons dans les Interactions Proton-Beryllium a 450 GEV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aubry, Pierre Rene Roger

L'experience HELIOS a fait une etude precise de la production des paires e^+e^-, mu^+mu^-, mu ^+mu^-+nu, et mu^+/- e^+/- dans les interactions p-Be a 450 GeV. Le detecteur comporte un spectrometre a electrons, un spectrometre a muons, et un ensemble de calorimetres qui peuvent mesurer les photons et l'energie manquante emportee par les neutrinos. Les paires de leptons sont observees dans la region cinematique ^1: eqalign {2/m_mu 6 GeV cr E_{e}&>2.8 GeV cr.25&

Processus et bilan des flux hydriques d'un bassin versant de milieu tropical de socle au Bénin (Donga, haut Ouémé)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamagaté, Bamory; Séguis, Luc; Favreau, Guillaume; Seidel, Jean-Luc; Descloitres, Marc; Affaton, Pascal

2007-05-01

Hydrodynamic, geochemical, and subsurface geophysical investigations, for two consecutive years with contrasting rainfall conditions, were used to characterize the hydrological processes occurring, and the water balance of a 586-km 2 watershed in Benin (Africa). The water table's monitoring shows that recharge occurs by direct infiltration of rainfall, and represents between 5 to 24% of the annual rainfall. Both surface water outflow, limited to the rainy season, and water chemistry indicate a weak groundwater contribution to river discharge. This implies that the calculated variations in annual runoff coefficients (of 14 and 28%) are mainly governed by surface and subsurface flows.

Application du processus de Markov sur les occurrences des précipitations journalières au Congo-Brazzaville

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Samba, Gaston; Mpounza, Marcel

2005-11-01

This study deals with the daily precipitation occurrence during the rainy season in different locations in Congo-Brazzaville. The Markov-chain probability model has been used for defining probable dry and wet rainy sequences at each station, and transition probabilities between daily precipitations of two successive days. The main results are: in Congo, the dependence on the preceding day of the daily precipitations occurrence; the confirmation of two main climatic region (equatorial climate to the north and tropical wet to the south); the lack of coherence in the distribution of precipitations. To cite this article: G. Samba, M. Mpounza, C. R. Geoscience 337 (2005).

Spectrometre de masse a ionisation Penning selective: Elimination des corrections necessaires a la determination du rapport isotopique de l'hydrogene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Letarte, Sylvain

Dans le but d'ameliorer la precision avec laquelle le rapport isotopique de l'hydrogene peut etre determine, un spectrometre de masse a ionisation Penning a ete construit pour provoquer l'ionisation selective de l'hydrogene moleculaire et de l'hydrure de deuterium a partir d'un melange gazeux. L'utilisation d'atomes dans des etats d'excitation metastable s'est averee une solution adequate pour reponde a cette attente. L'emploi de l'helium, a l'interieur d'une source d'atomes metastables construit specifiquement pour ce travail, ne permet pas d'obtenir un spectre de masse compose uniquement des deux molecules d'interet. L'ionisation de ces dernieres provient de deux processus distincts, soient l'ionisation Penning et l'ionisation par bombardement electronique. Contrairement a l'helium, il a ete demontre que le neon metastable est un candidat ideal pour produire l'ionisation selective de type Penning. Le nombre d'ions produits est directement proportionnel au courant de la decharge electrique et de la pression d'operation de la source d'atomes metastables. Ces resultats demontrent le potentiel d'un tel spectrometre de masse pour ameliorer la precision a laquelle le rapport isotopique peut etre determine comparativement aux autres techniques existantes.

Caracterisation des melanges developpes pour le moulage basse pression des poudres metalliques (LPIM) =

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fareh, Fouad

Le moulage par injection basse pression des poudres metalliques est une technique de fabrication qui permet de fabriquer des pieces possedant la complexite des pieces coulees mais avec les proprietes mecaniques des pieces corroyees. Cependant, l'optimisation des etapes de deliantage et de frittage a ete jusqu'a maintenant effectuee a l'aide de melange pour lesquels la moulabilite optimale n'a pas encore ete demontree. Ainsi, la comprehension des proprietes rheologiques et de la segregation des melanges est tres limitee et cela presente le point faible du processus de LPIM. L'objectif de ce projet de recherche etait de caracteriser l'influence des liants sur le comportement rheologique des melanges en mesurant la viscosite et la segregation des melanges faible viscosite utilises dans le procede LPIM. Afin d'atteindre cet objectif, des essais rheologiques et thermogravimetriques ont ete conduits sur 12 melanges. Ces melanges ont ete prepares a base de poudre d'Inconel 718 de forme spherique (chargement solide constant a 60%) et de cires, d'agents surfactants ou epaississants. Les essais rheologiques ont ete utilises entre autre pour calculer l'indice d'injectabilite ?STV des melanges, tandis que les essais thermogravimetriques ont permis d'evaluer precisement la segregation des poudres dans les melanges. Il a ete demontre que les trois (3) melanges contenant de la cire de paraffine et de l'acide stearique presentent des indices alpha STV plus eleves qui sont avantageux pour le moulage par injection des poudres metalliques (MIM), mais segregent beaucoup trop pour que la piece fabriquee produise de bonnes caracteristiques mecaniques. A l'oppose, le melange contenant de la cire de paraffine et de l'ethylene-vinyle acetate ainsi que le melange contenant seulement de la cire de carnauba segregent peu voire pas du tout, mais possedent de tres faibles indices alphaSTV : ils sont donc difficilement injectables. Le meilleur compromis semble donc etre les melanges contenant de la cire (de paraffine, d'abeille et de carnauba) et de faible teneur en acide stearique et en ethylene-vinyle acetate. Par ailleurs, les lois physiques preexistantes ont permis de confirmer les resultats des essais rheologiques et thermogravimetriques, mais aussi de mettre en evidence l'influence de la segregation sur les proprietes rheologiques des melanges. Ces essais ont aussi montre l'effet de constituants de liant et du temps passe a l'etat fondu sur l'intensite de la segregation dans les melanges. Les melanges contenants de l'acide stearique segregent rapidement. La caracterisation des melanges developpes pour le moulage basse pression des poudres metalliques doit etre obtenue a l'aide d'une methode de courte duree pour eviter la segregation et de mesurer precisement l'aptitude a l'ecoulement de ces melanges.

Etude de la qualité bactériologique de l’eau utilisée dans l’industrie agroalimentaire dans le Nord du Maroc

PubMed Central

Haijoubi, El Houcine; Benyahya, Fatiha; Bendahou, Abdrezzak; Essadqui, Faima Zahra; Behhari, Mohammed El; El Mamoune, Ahmed Fouad; Ghailani, Naima Nourouti; Mechita, Mohcine Bennani; Barakat, Amina

2017-01-01

Introduction L'eau est utilisée d'une façon primordiale dans tout le processus de la fabrication des produits alimentaires. Les industries agroalimentaires du Nord du Maroc utilisent différentes sources d'eaux mais l'eau de réseau public et l'eau de puits sont les principales sources d'eau utilisée. Cette eau peut s'avérer la source principale des éventuelles contaminations et altérations des aliments. Notre but est d'évaluer la qualité bactériologique de l'eau utilisée par les industries agroalimentaires dans la région du Nord du Maroc, d'identifier les différents germes responsables de la pollution de ces eaux et de définir les principales causes de cette pollution. Méthodes Des échantillons d'eau prélevés aux robinets ou des puits ont été analysés pour la recherche des germes indicateurs de la pollution (coliformes totaux (CT), coliformes fécaux (CF), entérocoques intestinaux (E), microorganismes revivifiables (MOR), anaérobies sulfitoréducteurs) et les germes pathogènes (Salmonelles, Staphylocoques, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Le dénombrement des bactéries a été fait par la technique de filtration et par incorporation en milieu solide en surfusion. Résultats Les résultats ont montré que les eaux du réseau public ont été de qualité bactériologique satisfaisante tandis que 40% des eaux des puits ont été non conformes aux normes à cause de la présence des indicateurs de pollution CT, CF, E et MOR. En revanche, les germes pathogènes, en particulier les Salmonelles, ont été absents dans les eaux de tous les puits analysés. Conclusion La pollution de ces puits a été généralement liée au non-respect des conditions de puisage hygiéniques. La qualité bactériologique des eaux de ces puits peut être améliorée par une protection adéquate. PMID:28450992

Protein-protein interaction studies reveal the Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein-1 region involved in a complex formation that binds to human erythrocytes.

PubMed

Paul, Gourab; Deshmukh, Arunaditya; Kumar Chourasia, Bishwanath; Kalamuddin, Md; Panda, Ashutosh; Kumar Singh, Susheel; Gupta, Puneet K; Mohmmed, Asif; Chauhan, Virender S; Theisen, Michael; Malhotra, Pawan

2018-03-29

Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein (PfMSP) 1 has been studied extensively as a vaccine candidate antigen. PfMSP-1 undergoes proteolytic processing into four major products, such as p83, p30, p38, and p42, that are associated in the form of non-covalent complex(s) with other MSPs. To delineate MSP1 regions involved in the interaction with other MSPs, here we expressed recombinant proteins (PfMSP-1 65 ) encompassing part of p38 and p42 regions and PfMSP-1 19 PfMSP-1 65 interacted strongly with PfMSP-3, PfMSP-6, PfMSP-7, and PfMSP-9, whereas PfMSP-1 19 did not interact with any of these proteins. Since MSP-1 complex binds human erythrocytes, we examined the ability of these proteins to bind human erythrocyte. Among the proteins of MSP-1 complex, PfMSP-6 and PfMSP-9 bound to human erythrocytes. Serological studies showed that PfMSP-1 65 was frequently recognized by sera from malaria endemic regions, whereas this was not the case for PfMSP-1 19 In contrast, antibodies against PfMSP-1 19 showed much higher inhibition of merozoite invasion compared with antibodies against the larger PfMSP-1 65 fragment. Importantly, anti-PfMSP-1 19 antibodies recognized both recombinant proteins, PfMSP-1 19 and PfMSP-1 65 ; however, anti-PfMSP-1 65 antibody failed to recognize the PfMSP-1 19 protein. Taken together, these results demonstrate that PfMSP-1 sequences upstream of the 19 kDa C-terminal region are involved in molecular interactions with other MSPs, and these sequences may probably serve as a smoke screen to evade antibody response to the membrane-bound C-terminal 19 kDa region. © 2018 The Author(s). Published by Portland Press Limited on behalf of the Biochemical Society.

Photoémission de Csl induite par une impulsion laser intense femtoseconde

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belsky, A.; Vasil'Ev, A.; Yatsenko, B.; Bachau, H.; Martin, P.; Geoffroy, G.; Guizard, S.

2003-06-01

Nous avons mesuré pour la première fois les spectres de photoélectrons émis par un cristal isolant à large bande interdite, Csl, avec une dynamique de 10^6 coups/s, excité par la source laser haute cadence du C.E.L.I.A (800 nm, 40 fs, 1 kHz, 1 TW). L'émission d'électrons jusqu'à des énergies de quelques dizaines d'électrons-volts a été observée pour des impulsions d'éclairement compris entre 0.5 et 3 TW/cm^2, relativement faible donc par comparaison aux éclairements utilisés pour accélérer les électrons d'un atome aux mêmes énergies. Ces spectres contiennent tous, en particulier, deux bandes dans le domaine des basses énergies d'électrons (<5 eV), également observées lors d'études précédentes. Les électrons les plus énergétiques forment un plateau intense légèrement structuré et limité par une coupure exponentielle. Pour des impulsions de 3 TW/cm^2 cette coupure est située à 27 eV. L'insuffisance du mécanisme électron-photon-phonon, considéré jusqu'à présent comme le principal processus d'échauffement des électrons dans les solides en interaction non destructrice avec un champ laser, nous a poussé à proposer un mécanisme alternatif. Ce modèle met en évidence les transitions directes multiphotoniques dans la bande de conduction du solide qui sont incontournables du fait de sa structure électronique multi-branches

Electromagnetic processes at low momentum transfer : a review for users

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parizet, M. J.; Borie, E.; Grossetête, B.; Isabelle, D. B.; Proriol, J.

Electromagnetic processes at low momentum transfer are often sources of background in many experiments. To be removed these effects must be calculated by the experimentalist, who must have a good knowledge of the validity of the theoretical formulas that he must use. Then we thought that it will be useful to prepare this review whose presentation is such that it should allow everyone to appreciate the accuracy of formulas that he must use in very complex situations. In this paper, we examine the problem related to bremsstrahlung, pair production and radiative corrections. The first part is devoted to kinematic and to the methods used to establish the corresponding cross sections. Les phénomènes électromagnétiques à faible transfert d'impulsion interviennent dans de nombreuses expériences comme des phénomènes parasites. Pour les éliminer, l'expérimentateur doit les calculer, mais il connait généralement mal la validité des formules théoriques qu'il doit alors utiliser. Il nous a donc paru utile de faire une revue dont la présentation doit permettre à chacun d'apprécier la précision des formules qu'il doit appliquer dans des situations très souvent complexes. Dans cet article, nous faisons le point, tant pour la théorie que pour l'expérience, en ce qui concerne : le rayonnement de freinage, la production de paires et les corrections radiatives. La première partie est consacrée à la cinématique des processus appréciés et aux méthodes permettant d'établir les sections efficaces correspondantes.

Algorithmes de couplage RANS et ecoulement potentiel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gallay, Sylvain

Dans le processus de developpement d'avion, la solution retenue doit satisfaire de nombreux criteres dans de nombreux domaines, comme par exemple le domaine de la structure, de l'aerodynamique, de la stabilite et controle, de la performance ou encore de la securite, tout en respectant des echeanciers precis et minimisant les couts. Les geometries candidates sont nombreuses dans les premieres etapes de definition du produit et de design preliminaire, et des environnements d'optimisations multidisciplinaires sont developpes par les differentes industries aeronautiques. Differentes methodes impliquant differents niveaux de modelisations sont necessaires pour les differentes phases de developpement du projet. Lors des phases de definition et de design preliminaires, des methodes rapides sont necessaires afin d'etudier les candidats efficacement. Le developpement de methodes ameliorant la precision des methodes existantes tout en gardant un cout de calcul faible permet d'obtenir un niveau de fidelite plus eleve dans les premieres phases de developpement du projet et ainsi grandement diminuer les risques associes. Dans le domaine de l'aerodynamisme, les developpements des algorithmes de couplage visqueux/non visqueux permettent d'ameliorer les methodes de calcul lineaires non visqueuses en methodes non lineaires prenant en compte les effets visqueux. Ces methodes permettent ainsi de caracteriser l'ecoulement visqueux sur les configurations et predire entre autre les mecanismes de decrochage ou encore la position des ondes de chocs sur les surfaces portantes. Cette these se focalise sur le couplage entre une methode d'ecoulement potentiel tridimensionnelle et des donnees de section bidimensionnelles visqueuses. Les methodes existantes sont implementees et leurs limites identifiees. Une methode originale est ensuite developpee et validee. Les resultats sur une aile elliptique demontrent la capacite de l'algorithme a de grands angles d'attaques et dans la region post-decrochage. L'algorithme de couplage a ete compare a des donnees de plus haute fidelite sur des configurations issues de la litterature. Un modele de fuselage base sur des relations empiriques et des simulations RANS a ete teste et valide. Les coefficients de portance, de trainee et de moment de tangage ainsi que les coefficients de pression extraits le long de l'envergure ont montre un bon accord avec les donnees de soufflerie et les modeles RANS pour des configurations transsoniques. Une configuration a geometrie hypersustentatoire a permis d'etudier la modelisation des surfaces hypersustentees de la methode d'ecoulement potentiel, demontrant que la cambrure peut etre prise en compte uniquement dans les donnees visqueuses.

Plasmodium falciparum MSP3 exists in a complex on the merozoite surface and generates antibody response during natural infection.

PubMed

Deshmukh, Arunaditya; Chourasia, Bishwanath Kumar; Mehrotra, Sonali; Kana, Ikhlaq Hussain; Paul, Gourab; Panda, Ashutosh; Kaur, Inderjeet; Singh, Susheel Kumar; Rathore, Sumit; Das, Aparup; Gupta, Priya; Md, Kalamuddin; Ghakar, S K; Mohmmed, Asif; Theisen, Michael; Malhotra, Pawan

2018-05-14

Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein 3 (MSP3) is an abundantly expressed secreted merozoite surface protein and a leading malaria vaccine candidate antigen. However, it is unclear how MSP3 is retained on the surface of merozoites without a GPI anchor or a transmembrane domain. In the present study, we identified an MSP3 associated network on the Plasmodium merozoite surface by Immunoprecipitation of Plasmodium merozoite lysate using anti-MSP3N antibodies followed by mass spectrometry analysis. The results suggested the association of MSP3 with other merozoite surface proteins; MSP1, MSP6, MSP7, RAP2 and SERA5. Protein-protein interaction studies by ELISA binding and SPR analysis showed that MSP3 complex consists of MSP1, MSP6 and MSP7 proteins, Immunological characterization of MSP3 revealed that MSP3N is strongly recognized by hyper immune sera from African and Asian populations. Furthermore, we demonstrate that human antibodies affinity-purified against rMSP3N promote opsonic phagocytosis of merozoites in cooperation with monocytes. At non-physiological concentrations, anti-MSP3N antibodies inhibited the growth of P. falciparum in-vitro Together the data suggests that MSP3 and especially its N-terminal region containing known B/T-cell epitopes is a target of naturally acquired immunity against malaria and is also an important candidate for a multi-subunit malaria vaccine. Copyright © 2018 American Society for Microbiology.

Les recommandations de prise en charge des complications métaboliques associées aux antipsychotiques de deuxième génération chez les enfants et les adolescents

PubMed Central

Ho, Josephine; Panagiotopoulos, Constadina; McCrindle, Brian; Grisaru, Silviu; Pringsheim, Tamara

2012-01-01

HISTORIQUE : Les antipsychotiques de deuxième génération s’associent souvent à des complications métaboliques. Ces médicaments sont utilisés plus souvent pour le traitement des troubles de santé mentale chez les enfants, ce qui a requis l’élaboration de lignes directrices officielles sur la surveillance de leur innocuité et de leur efficacité. Des lignes directrices ont déjà été élaborées pour surveiller les complications métaboliques et neurologiques. Afin d’aider les praticiens qui effectuent ces interventions de surveillance, une série de recommandations thérapeutiques complémentaires a été élaborée pour les cas où l’on observe des mesures ou des résultats anormaux. OBJECTIF : Créer des recommandations probantes afin de contribuer à la prise en charge des complications métaboliques chez les enfants traités au moyen d’antipsychotiques de deuxième génération. MÉTHODOLOGIE : Les auteurs ont procédé à une analyse systématique des publications sur les complications métaboliques des antipsychotiques de deuxième génération chez les enfants. Les membres du groupe consensuel ont évalué l’information recueillie grâce à l’analyse bibliographique systématique et ont fait appel à un processus de groupe nominal pour parvenir à un consensus à l’égard de recommandations thérapeutiques. Dans la mesure du possible, ils se sont reportés aux lignes directrices existantes sur l’évaluation et le traitement des anomalies métaboliques chez les enfants. RÉSULTATS : Des recommandations probantes sont présentées pour contribuer à la prise en charge des complications métaboliques, y compris la prise de poids, l’augmentation du tour de taille, l’élévation des taux de prolactine, de cholestérol, de triglycérides et de glucose, les épreuves de fonction hépatique anormales et les études thyroïdiennes anormales. CONCLUSION : Il faut recourir à des mesures de surveillance convenables lorsqu’on prescrit des antipsychotiques de deuxième génération. Les présentes lignes directrices thérapeutiques orientent les cliniciens quant à la prise en charge clinique des complications métaboliques lorsqu’elles se produisent. PMID:24082815

Ingenierie de nanoparticules plasmoniques robustes pour la generation de bulles par laser en vue d'applications biomedicales

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lachaine, Remi

Les chirurgiens generent des bulles dans le corps humain a l'aide d'irradiation laser depuis plusieurs decennies. Ils utilisent ces bulles comme de petits scalpels, leur permettant de faire des incisions precises et localisees. Une des applications de cet outil chirurgical est la perforation cellulaire. Au lieu d'utiliser une aiguille pour perforer la membrane des cellules, il est possible de focaliser des impulsions laser en surface d'une cellule, formant un plasma au point focal du laser et generant une bulle qui perfore la membrane cellulaire. Toutefois, ce procede est assez lent et la perforation massive de cellules in-vivo n'est pas envisageable. Pour accelerer le processus, il est possible d'utiliser des nanoparticules plasmoniques. Ces dernieres agissent comme des nano-antennes qui permettent de concentrer la lumiere sur une echelle nanometrique. La possibilite d'irradier un grand nombre de nanoparticules simultanement a donne un nouvel elan a la generation de bulle comme outil de perforation cellulaire. L'utilisation de nanoparticules dans un contexte biomedical comporte toutefois certains risques. En particulier, la fragmentation de nanoparticules peut augmenter la toxicite du traitement. Dans un cas ideal, il est preferable d'utiliser des nanoparticules qui ne sont pas endommagees par l'irradiation laser. Cette these a pour but de developper une methode d'ingenierie de nanoparticules robustes permettant la generation efficace de bulles a des fins biomedicales. Il est tout d'abord demontre experimentalement que la formation de plasma est bel et bien le mecanisme physique principal menant a la generation de bulles lors de l'irradiation infrarouge (longueur d'onde de 800 nm) et ultrarapide (temps d'impulsion entre 45 fs et 1 ps) de nanoparticules d'or de 100 nm. Pour realiser cette demonstration, une methode pompe-sonde de detection de bulles d'environ 1 mum a ete elaboree. Cette methode a permis de mettre en evidence une difference de taille de 18% entre les bulles generees avec une irradiation de polarisation lineaire par rapport a une polarisation circulaire lorsque la duree d'impulsion etait inferieure a la picoseconde. Pour des impulsions plus longues, il est montre que les tailles de bulles sont independantes de la polarisation des impulsions incidentes. Ce comportement particulier est en accord avec les predictions theoriques qui incluent la formation non-lineaire de plasma et ne peut pas etre explique en considerant uniquement l'absorption des particules. Ensuite, une methode de conception de nanoparticules robustes pour la generation de bulles est elaboree. Cette methode se base sur les proprietes optiques des nanostructures.

La Sociéte Française d'Exobiologie

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raulin, F.

2010-12-01

L'exobiologie est une jeune science, très pluridisciplinaire qui, de façon générale, a pour objet l'étude de la vie dans l'univers. Plus précisément, elle inclut l'étude des conditions et des processus qui ont permis l'émergence du vivant sur notre planète, et ont pu oumo pourraient le permettre ailleurs, l'étude de l'évolution de la matière organique vers des structures complexes dans l'univers, et les recherches qui concernent la distribution de la vie sous toutes les formes qu'elle pourrait revêtir, et son évolution. La Société Française d'Exobiologie a été fondée en mai 2009. Elle a pour buts principaux de fédérer les recherches en exobiologie au niveau français en facilitant l'établissement de contacts interdisciplinaires entre les chercheurs français et faire connaître et expliquer l'exobiologie pour satisfaire la demande socio culturelle provenant d'un public diversifié, par le biais de conférences, d'ateliers, d'expositions. La SFE est reconnue comme Société savante. Elle compte actuellement 140 membres et vient d'organiser son premier colloque national d'exobiologie à Biarritz.

Contrôle de la température durant le processus de dégradation d'un acier Z12CNS20 en frottement avec un acier Z200C13

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khanafi-Benghalem, N.; Loucif, K.; Benghalem, K.; Boudoukha, H.; Louahdi, R.

2005-05-01

La température de contact lors des essais d'usure varie d'une manière spontanée et aléatoire. Cette température de contact dépend essentiellement de la nature du couple des matériaux en contact de la charge et de la vitesse. Cependant la mesure de la température est très difficile à effectuer compte tenu du choix de l'endroit de prise de la température et des phénomènes d'évacuation de la chaleur et de la dissipation de l'énergie. Dans ce travail nous exposons une méthode très simple de mesure de la température et nous étudions par conséquent la variation de la température du Z12CNS20 / Z200C13. Au cours des essais d'usure pour différentes vitesses de glissement, nous montrons en effet que la température augmente d'une manière progressive en fonction de la vitesse puis elle s'élève brutalement au fur et à mesure qu'on se rapproche du point de contact, et enfin nous prouvons par observation métallographique que l'échantillon subit un écoulement plastique provoqué par l'élévation de la température en fonction de la vitesse.

Les recommandations thérapeutiques relatives aux effets secondaires extrapyramidaux associés à l’utilisation d’antipsychotiques de deuxième génération chez les enfants et les adolescents

PubMed Central

Pringsheim, Tamara; Doja, Asif; Belanger, Stacey; Patten, Scott

2012-01-01

HISTORIQUE ET OBJECTIF : L’utilisation d’antipsychotiques augmente chez les enfants. Le présent article visait à orienter les cliniciens quant à la prise en charge clinique des effets secondaires extrapyramidaux des antipsychotiques de deuxième génération. MÉTHODOLOGIE : Les publications, les entrevues avec des informateurs clés et des échanges avec les membres d’un groupe de discussion et les partenaires ont permis de déterminer les principaux secteurs cliniques d’orientation et les préférences quant à la structure des présentes recommandations. Les membres responsables des lignes directrices ont reçu le projet de recommandations, ont évalué l’information recueillie grâce à une analyse bibliographique systématique et ont utilisé un processus de groupe nominal pour parvenir à un consensus quant aux recommandations thérapeutiques. Les lignes directrices contiennent une description des anomalies neurologiques souvent observées avec l’utilisation d’antipsychotiques ainsi que les recommandations sur le moyen d’examiner et de quantifier ces anomalies. Une démarche séquentielle sur la prise en charge des anomalies neurologiques est présentée. RÉSULTATS : On peut observer plusieurs types de symptômes extrapyramidaux attribuables à l’utilisation d’antipsychotiques chez les enfants, y compris la dystonie aiguë, l’akathisie, le parkinsonisme et la dyskinésie tardive, toutes induites par les neuroleptiques, de même que la dystonie tardive, l’akathisie tardive et les dyskinésies de sevrage. La forte majorité des données probantes sur le traitement des troubles du mouvement induits par les antipsychotiques proviennent de patients adultes atteints de schizophrénie. Étant donné le peu de données pédiatriques, les recommandations découlent de publications portant tant sur des adultes que sur des enfants. Compte tenu des limites de généralisation des données provenant de sujets adultes pour des enfants, il faudrait évaluer ces recommandations d’après les avis d’experts plutôt que d’après les données probantes. CONCLUSION : Les cliniciens doivent savoir que les antipsychotiques de deuxième génération ont le potentiel d’induire des effets secondaires neurologiques et devraient faire preuve d’une extrême vigilance lorsqu’ils en prescrivent. PMID:24082814

Apport maternel chez la balane tropicale : Plasticite de l'allocation de la ressource trophique pour la production larvaire en conditions de limitation nutritionnelle et de stress environnemental

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Freuchet, Florian

Dans le milieu marin, l'abondance du recrutement depend des processus qui vont affecter les adultes et le stock de larves. Sous l'influence de signaux fiables de la qualite de l'habitat, la mere peut augmenter (effet maternel anticipatoire, 'anticipatory mother effects', AME) ou reduire (effet maternel egoiste, 'selfish maternai effects', SME) la condition physiologique de la progeniture. Dans les zones tropicales, generalement plus oligotrophes, la ressource nutritive et la temperature sont deux composantes importantes pouvant limiter le recrutement. Les effets de l'apport nutritionnel et du stress thermique sur la production de larves et sur la stategie maternelle adoptee ont ete testes dans cette etude. Nous avons cible la balane Chthamalus bisinuatus (Pilsbry) comme modele biologique car el1e domine les zones intertidales superieures le long des cotes rocheuses du Sud-Est du Bresil (region tropicale). Les hypotheses de depart stipulaient que l'apport nutritionnel permet aux adultes de produire des larves de qualite elevee et que le stress thermique genere une ponte precoce, produisant des larves de faible qualite. Afin de tester ces hypotheses, des populations de C. bisinuatus ont ete elevees selon quatre groupes experimentaux differents, en combinant des niveaux d'apport nutritionnel (eleve et faible) et de stress thermique (stresse et non stresse). Des mesures de survie et de conditions physiologiques des adultes et des larves ont permis d'identifier les reponses parentales pouvant etre avantageuses dans un environnement tropical hostile. L'analyse des profils en acides gras a ete la methode utilisee pour evaluer la qualite physiologique des adultes et de larves. Les resultats du traitement alimentaire (fort ou faible apport nutritif), ne montrent aucune difference dans l'accumulation de lipides neutres, la taille des nauplii, l'effort de reproduction ou le temps de survie des nauplii en condition de jeune. Il semble que la faible ressource nutritive est compensee par les meres qui adoptent un modele AME qui se traduit par l'anticipation du milieu par les meres afin de produire des larves au phenotype approprie. A l'ajout d'un stress thermique, on observe des diminutions de 47% de la production de larves et celles-ci etaient 18 microm plus petites. Les meres semblent utiliser un modele SME caracterise par une diminution de la performance des larves. Suite a ces resultats, nous emettons l'hypothese qu'en zone subtropicale, comme sur les cotes de l'etat de Sao Paulo, l'elevation de la temperature subie par les balanes n'est, a priori, pas dommageable pour leur organisme si eIle est combinee a un apport nutritif suffisant.

Antibodies against multiple merozoite surface antigens of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum inhibit parasite maturation and red blood cell invasion.

PubMed

Woehlbier, Ute; Epp, Christian; Hackett, Fiona; Blackman, Michael J; Bujard, Hermann

2010-03-18

Plasmodium falciparum merozoites expose at their surface a large protein complex, which is composed of fragments of merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP-1; called MSP-183, MSP-130, MSP-138, and MSP-142) plus associated processing products of MSP-6 and MSP-7. During erythrocyte invasion this complex, as well as an integral membrane protein called apical membrane antigen-1 (AMA-1), is shed from the parasite surface following specific proteolysis. Components of the MSP-1/6/7 complex and AMA-1 are presently under development as malaria vaccines. The specificities and effects of antibodies directed against MSP-1, MSP-6, MSP-7 on the growth of blood stage parasites were studied using ELISA and the pLDH-assay. To understand the mode of action of these antibodies, their effects on processing of MSP-1 and AMA-1 on the surface of merozoites were investigated. Antibodies targeting epitopes located throughout the MSP-1/6/7 complex interfere with shedding of MSP-1, and as a consequence prevent erythrocyte invasion. Antibodies targeting the MSP-1/6/7 complex have no effect on the processing and shedding of AMA-1 and, similarly, antibodies blocking the shedding of AMA-1 do not affect cleavage of MSP-1, suggesting completely independent functions of these proteins during invasion. Furthermore, some epitopes, although eliciting highly inhibitory antibodies, are only poorly recognized by the immune system when presented in the structural context of the intact antigen. The findings reported provide further support for the development of vaccines based on MSP-1/6/7 and AMA-1, which would possibly include a combination of these antigens.

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

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perronet, K.

2005-03-01

Analysis of the luminescence induced by a STM (scanning tunneling microscope) permits to get insights into the electronic processes taking place in a single nanoscopic tunnel junction. We studied a Au(111)/Au junction under vacuum (UHV) and immersed in a molecular medium. The study under UHV reveals the influence of spatial variations of surface local density of states (LDOS) on the luminescence. The emission at the solid-liquid interface is characterized and the role played by the dielectric function is shown. Time correlations between the emitted single photons are then studied. Depending on the liquid immersing the junction, a photon bunching can occur. We link this bunching with structural changes of the junction induced by the presence of a diffusing molecule. If the HOMO LUMO gap of the molecule is small enough, resonant tunnelling paths exist and tunnelling-electron bunching occurs. Finally, the influence of a self-assembled monolayer on the substrate is investigated. Boundings between triphenylene derivatives and Au(111) are too weak, but with chemisorbed alcanethiols, molecular resolution is reached both on the STM image and on the photon map. We show that the contrast on photon map comes from the modulation of the LDOS spatial extension into the barrier due to the S Au bond. The elaboration of organic multilayers is considered as a route for observing the electroluminescence of a single molecule, isolated from the substrate by thiols and to study correlations of electronic origin. We have already optically characterised such a layer using C{60}. La luminescence induite par STM (microscopie à effet tunnel) est une source d'informations d'une grande richesse sur les processus électroniques au sein d'un objet nanoscopique individuel. Nous nous sommes intéressés à une jonction Au/Au(111) sous vide puis dans un milieu moléculaire. L'étude sous vide a permis de montrer l'influence des variations spatiales des densités d'états de la surface. L'émission à l'interface liquide-solide a été démontrée et le rôle de la fonction diélectrique du solvant mis en évidence. Nous avons ensuite étudié les corrélations temporelles entre les photons émis. Selon le liquide environnant la jonction, les photons peuvent être émis par paquets. Nous relions ce phénomène à la modification structurelle de la jonction induite par la présence d'une molécule et à la différence d'énergie entre ses orbitales frontières. Si elle est assez faible, des chemins tunnel résonants existent et les électrons traversent la barrière par paquets. L'influence d'une couche auto-assemblée sur le substrat est étudiée. Des dérivés de triphénylènes interagissent trop faiblement avec Au(111), mais avec des alcanethiols chimisorbés, la résolution moléculaire est atteinte simultanément sur l'image STM et la carte de photons. Nous montrons que le contraste sur cette dernière provient de la modulation de l'extension spatiale à l'intérieur de la barrière des densités d'état locales due à la liaison S Au. L'élaboration de multicouches organiques est alors envisagée pour observer l'électroluminescence d'une molécule unique, isolée du substrat par les thiols et étudier des corrélations d'origine électronique. Nous avons déjà caractérisé optiquement une telle couche de C{60}.

T Cell Epitope Regions of the P. falciparum MSP1-33 Critically Influence Immune Responses and In Vitro Efficacy of MSP1-42 Vaccines

PubMed Central

Pusic, Kae M.; Hashimoto, Caryn N.; Lehrer, Axel; Aniya, Charmaine; Clements, David E.; Hui, George S.

2011-01-01

The C-terminal 42 kDa fragments of the P. falciparum Merozoite Surface Protein 1, MSP1-42 is a leading malaria vaccine candidate. MSP1-33, the N-terminal processed fragment of MSP1-42, is rich in T cell epitopes and it is hypothesized that they enhance antibody response toward MSP1-19. Here, we gave in vivo evidence that T cell epitope regions of MSP1-33 provide functional help in inducing anti-MSP1-19 antibodies. Eleven truncated MSP1-33 segments were expressed in tandem with MSP1-19, and immunogenicity was evaluated in Swiss Webster mice and New Zealand White rabbits. Analyses of anti-MSP1-19 antibody responses revealed striking differences in these segments' helper function despite that they all possess T cell epitopes. Only a few fragments induced a generalized response (100%) in outbred mice. These were comparable to or surpassed the responses observed with the full length MSP1-42. In rabbits, only a subset of truncated antigens induced potent parasite growth inhibitory antibodies. Notably, two constructs were more efficacious than MSP1-42, with one containing only conserved T cell epitopes. Moreover, another T cell epitope region induced high titers of non-inhibitory antibodies and they interfered with the inhibitory activities of anti-MSP1-42 antibodies. In mice, this region also induced a skewed TH2 cellular response. This is the first demonstration that T cell epitope regions of MSP1-33 positively or negatively influenced antibody responses. Differential recognition of these regions by humans may play critical roles in vaccine induced and/or natural immunity to MSP1-42. This study provides the rational basis to re-engineer more efficacious MSP1-42 vaccines by selective inclusion and exclusion of MSP1-33 specific T cell epitopes. PMID:21931852

Geographic Variation in Maternal Smoking during Pregnancy in the Missouri Adolescent Female Twin Study (MOAFTS)

PubMed Central

Lian, Min; Madden, Pamela A.; Lynskey, Michael T.; Colditz, Graham A.; Lessov-Schlaggar, Christina N.; Schootman, Mario; Heath, Andrew C.

2016-01-01

Objective Despite well-known adverse health effects of maternal smoking during pregnancy (MSP), it is still unclear if MSP varies geographically and if neighborhood socioeconomic deprivation (SED) plays an important role in MSP. This study aims to investigate small-area geographic variation in MSP and examine the association of SED with MSP. Methods The Missouri Adolescent Female Twin Study (MOAFTS) is a cohort study of female like-sex twins born in Missouri to Missouri-resident parents during 1975–1985. Biological mothers completed a baseline interview in 1995–1998 and reported MSP with the twins. Residential address of the mother at birth was geocoded. We developed a census tract-level SED index using a common factor approach based on 21 area-level socioeconomic variables from the 1980 Census data. Multilevel logistic regressions estimated geographic heterogeneity (random effect) in MSP and the odds ratios (ORs, fixed effects) of neighborhood SED associated with MSP. Results Of 1658 MOAFTS mothers, 35.2% reported any MSP and 21.9% reported MSP beyond the first trimester. Neighborhood SED was associated with any MSP (the highest vs. the lowest quartile: OR = 1.90, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.40–2.57, Ptrend<0.001) and MSP beyond the first trimester (OR = 1.98, 95% CI = 1.38–2.85, Ptrend = 0.002) in unadjusted analyses. After adjusting for individual covariates (demographics, socioeconomic conditions, alcohol use, and parents’ cohabitation), neighborhood SED was not associated with MSP, but geographic variation still persisted in MSP (variance = 0.41, P = 0.003) and in MSP beyond the first trimester (variance = 0.82, P<0.001). Conclusions Neighborhood SED was associated with MSP in unadjusted analyses but this association could be explained by individual socioeconomic conditions. Nonetheless, significant geographic variation in MSP persisted and was not accounted for by differences in neighborhood SED. To develop effective interventions to reduce MSP, further studies are necessary to explore underlying reasons for its geographic variation. PMID:27100091

A Chimeric Plasmodium falciparum Merozoite Surface Protein Vaccine Induces High Titers of Parasite Growth Inhibitory Antibodies

PubMed Central

Alaro, James R.; Partridge, Andrea; Miura, Kazutoyo; Diouf, Ababacar; Lopez, Ana M.; Angov, Evelina; Long, Carole A.

2013-01-01

The C-terminal 19-kDa domain of Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein 1 (PfMSP119) is an established target of protective antibodies. However, clinical trials of PfMSP142, a leading blood-stage vaccine candidate which contains the protective epitopes of PfMSP119, revealed suboptimal immunogenicity and efficacy. Based on proof-of-concept studies in the Plasmodium yoelii murine model, we produced a chimeric vaccine antigen containing recombinant PfMSP119 (rPfMSP119) fused to the N terminus of P. falciparum merozoite surface protein 8 that lacked its low-complexity Asn/Asp-rich domain, rPfMSP8 (ΔAsn/Asp). Immunization of mice with the chimeric rPfMSP1/8 vaccine elicited strong T cell responses to conserved epitopes associated with the rPfMSP8 (ΔAsn/Asp) fusion partner. While specific for PfMSP8, this T cell response was adequate to provide help for the production of high titers of antibodies to both PfMSP119 and rPfMSP8 (ΔAsn/Asp) components. This occurred with formulations adjuvanted with either Quil A or with Montanide ISA 720 plus CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) and was observed in both inbred and outbred strains of mice. PfMSP1/8-induced antibodies were highly reactive with two major alleles of PfMSP119 (FVO and 3D7). Of particular interest, immunization with PfMSP1/8 elicited higher titers of PfMSP119-specific antibodies than a combined formulation of rPfMSP142 and rPfMSP8 (ΔAsn/Asp). As a measure of functionality, PfMSP1/8-specific rabbit IgG was shown to potently inhibit the in vitro growth of blood-stage parasites of the FVO and 3D7 strains of P. falciparum. These data support the further testing and evaluation of this chimeric PfMSP1/8 antigen as a component of a multivalent vaccine for P. falciparum malaria. PMID:23897613

Encéphalopathie pancréatique: à propos de deux cas

PubMed Central

Doghmi, Nawfal; Benakrout, Aziz; Meskine, Amine; Bensghir, Mustaphja; Baite, Abdelouah; Haimeur, Charki

2016-01-01

L'encéphalopathie pancréatique, est une complication rare de la pancréatite aiguë, notre étude porte sur 02 cas d'encéphalopathie pancréatique, hospitalisés et traités au sein du service de Réanimation chirurgicale de l'Hôpital Militaire d'Instruction Mohamed V de Rabat. L'âge des patients était compris entre 43 ans et 54 ans, nos 02 cas sont repartis en une femme et un homme. Le mécanisme physiopathologique de l'EP n'est pas encore bien élucidé, de nombreuses hypothèses ont été rapportées dans la littérature, certains auteurs suggèrent que la lipase et la Phospholipase A2 jouent un rôle dans le processus pathologique de l'EP. D'autres facteurs tels que les infections, les troubles hydroélectrolytiques, l'hypoxémie et la perturbation de la glycémie, peuvent être déclencheurs. Le diagnostic de l'encéphalopathie pancréatique est facile à établir, la symptomatologie clinique se résume le plus souvent à une confusion, avec stupeur, et agitation psychomotrice, Il s'y ajoute parfois des atteintes neurologiques comme des convulsions, une céphalée, des hémiparésies passagères, une dysarthrie, enfin des difficultés d'expression verbale et une amnésie. Les examens paracliniques, notamment L'IRM cérébrale et l'électroencéphalogramme, permettent de confirmer le diagnostic. Le traitement est d'abord symptomatique, il a comme objectif de lutter contre les facteurs qui favorisent l'apparition des signes neurologiques par les mesures de réanimation que réclame la gravité de la situation. L'évolution de l'EP est le plus souvent favorable, avec une disparition progressive des symptômes, cependant la persistance de quelques séquelles, est décrite dans la littérature. Le pronostic est fonction de la gravité de la pancréatite aigüe et des complications associées. Dans notre étude les données sont globalement comparables à celles publiées actuellement par la majorité des auteurs. PMID:28292109

Lignes directrices simplifiées sur les lipides

PubMed Central

Allan, G. Michael; Lindblad, Adrienne J.; Comeau, Ann; Coppola, John; Hudson, Brianne; Mannarino, Marco; McMinis, Cindy; Padwal, Raj; Schelstraete, Christine; Zarnke, Kelly; Garrison, Scott; Cotton, Candra; Korownyk, Christina; McCormack, James; Nickel, Sharon; Kolber, Michael R.

2015-01-01

Résumé Objectif Produire un guide de pratique clinique comportant une approche simplifiée à la prévention primaire des maladies cardiovasculaires (MCV), en insistant sur l’estimation du risque de MCV et la prise en charge des profils lipidiques à l’intention des cliniciens de soins primaires et leurs équipes; nous avons recherché la contribution de professionnels des soins primaires qui n’avaient que peu ou pas de conflits d’intérêts et nous nous sommes concentrés sur les données probantes de la plus haute qualité accessibles. Méthodes Neuf professionnels de la santé (4 médecins de famille, 2 internistes, 1 infirmière praticienne, 1 infirmière autorisée et 1 pharmacienne) et 1 membre non votant (pharmacienne gestionnaire de projet) formaient le comité principal appelé le Lipid Pathway Committee (le comité). La sélection des membres s’est fondée sur la profession, le milieu de pratique et son emplacement. Les membres ont divulgué tous leurs conflits d’intérêts potentiels ou réels. Le processus d’élaboration des lignes directrices était itératif et s’appuyait sur des affichages en ligne, une révision détaillée des données probantes, des réunions par téléphone et en ligne. Le comité a cerné 12 questions prioritaires à répondre. Le groupe de révision des données probantes a répondu à ces questions. À la suite d’un examen des réponses, les principales recommandations ont été formulées par consensus du comité. Nous avons produit une ébauche des lignes directrices qui a ensuite été peaufinée, distribuée à un groupe de cliniciens (médecins de famille, autres spécialistes, pharmaciens, infirmières et infirmières praticiennes) et à des patients pour obtenir de la rétroaction, la réviser en conséquence et le comité l’a ensuite finalisée. Recommandations Des recommandations sont présentées concernant le dépistage et les analyses, les évaluations du risque, le suivi, de même que le rôle de l’acide acétylsalicylique en prévention primaire. Conclusion Ces lignes directrices simplifiées sur les lipides offrent des recommandations pratiques pour la prévention et le traitement des MCV à l’intention des professionnels des soins primaires. Toutes les recommandations ont pour but d’aider à la prise de décision conjointement avec les patients plutôt que de la dicter.

Developmental pathways of multisite musculoskeletal pain: what is the influence of physical and psychosocial working conditions?

PubMed

Neupane, Subas; Leino-Arjas, Päivi; Nygård, Clas-Håkan; Oakman, Jodi; Virtanen, Pekka

2017-07-01

To investigate the developmental pathways of multisite musculoskeletal pain (MSP) and the effect of physical and psychosocial working conditions on the development of MSP trajectories. The study was conducted among food industry workers (N=868) using a longitudinal design. Surveys were conducted every 2 years from 2003 to 2009. The questionnaire covered MSP, physical and psychosocial working conditions (physical strain, environmental factors, repetitive movements, awkward postures; mental strain, team support, leadership, possibility to influence) and work ability. MSP as an outcome was defined as the number of painful areas of the body on a scale of 0-4. Latent class growth modelling and multinomial logistic regression were used to analyse the impact of working conditions on MSP pathways. Five MSP trajectories (no MSP 35.6%, persistent MSP 28.8%, developing MSP 8.8%, increasing MSP 15.3% and decreasing MSP 11.5%) were identified. In a multivariable model, the no MSP pathway was set as the reference group. High physical strain (OR 3.26, 95% CI 2.10 to 5.04), poor environmental factors (3.84, 2.48 to 5.94), high repetitive movements (3.68, 2.31 to 5.88) and high mental strain (3.87, 2.53 to 5.92) at baseline predicted the persistent MSP pathway, allowing for poor work ability (2.81, 1.84 to 4.28) and female gender (1.80, 1.14 to 2.83). High physical strain and female gender predicted the developing MSP pathway. High physical strain, poor environmental factors and high repetitive movements predicted the increasing and decreasing MSP pathways. A substantial proportion of individuals reported having persistent MSP, and one-third reported changing patterns of pain. Adverse physical working conditions and mental strain were strongly associated with having high but stable levels of MSP. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

The AAA protein Msp1 mediates clearance of excess tail-anchored proteins from the peroxisomal membrane

PubMed Central

Weir, Nicholas R; Kamber, Roarke A; Martenson, James S

2017-01-01

Msp1 is a conserved AAA ATPase in budding yeast localized to mitochondria where it prevents accumulation of mistargeted tail-anchored (TA) proteins, including the peroxisomal TA protein Pex15. Msp1 also resides on peroxisomes but it remains unknown how native TA proteins on mitochondria and peroxisomes evade Msp1 surveillance. We used live-cell quantitative cell microscopy tools and drug-inducible gene expression to dissect Msp1 function. We found that a small fraction of peroxisomal Pex15, exaggerated by overexpression, is turned over by Msp1. Kinetic measurements guided by theoretical modeling revealed that Pex15 molecules at mitochondria display age-independent Msp1 sensitivity. By contrast, Pex15 molecules at peroxisomes are rapidly converted from an initial Msp1-sensitive to an Msp1-resistant state. Lastly, we show that Pex15 interacts with the peroxisomal membrane protein Pex3, which shields Pex15 from Msp1-dependent turnover. In sum, our work argues that Msp1 selects its substrates on the basis of their solitary membrane existence. PMID:28906250

Production du baryon Sigma+ dans les collisions e+e- au LEP

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Joly, Andre

Les mécanismes de production des baryons dans les interactions e+e- font l'objet de nombreuses études. De plus, les modes de production des baryons étranges semblent faire appel A des processus spécifiques, qui sont encore mal compris. Notre étude de la production des baryons Σ+ dans les interactions e+e- nous permet de formuler certaines remarques sur l'état des connaîssances acquises sur le sujet. Une methode de reconstruction originale et des critères de sélection spécifiques ont été développés afin d'identifier des baryons Σ+ de haute Energie ( ES+ > 5 GeV), partir de leur canal de désintégration en un proton et un π0 (S+-->p+p0 ). Trois mesures principales sont réalisées à partir de notre échantillon de baryons reconstruits. Le nombre mesuré de baryons Σ+ produits par événement e +e- à 91 GeV est de: =0.102+/-0.006(stat.) +/-0.008(syst.) +/-0.003(extrap.) où les erreurs sont dues à la statistique, aux systématiques et à la procédure d'extrapolation. Ce résultat est en accord avec ceux obtenus précédemment, mais avec des erreurs réduites. La section efficace différentielle en fonction de l'energie est mesurée et comparée aux prédictions des principaux générateurs Monte-Carlo (JETSET7.4(MOPS), JETSET7.4 et HERWIG5.9). A haute énergie, HERWIG ne semble pas reproduire les mesures, aussi bien que les deux versions de JETSET. Enfin, la position du maximum de la section efficace différentielle de production des baryons Σ+ en fonction de l'impulsion est mesurée. On trouve: overlinexoverlineS+=2.32+/- 0.47 Une étude spécifique du générateur JETSET7.4(MOPS) est réalisee, afin de mieux comprendre les mécanismes de production de l'étrangeté et du spin dans la production des baryons. Aucun générateur ne semble capable de décrire de manière simultanée la production du spin et de l'étrangeté.

Repenser ensemble le concept d'autonomie alimentaire.

PubMed

Bélisle, Micheline; Labarthe, Jenni; Moreau, Cynthia; Landry, Elise; Adam, Gracia; Bourque Bouliane, Mijanou; Dupéré, Sophie

2017-03-01

C'est au cœur du projet de recherche-action participative « Vers une autonomie alimentaire pour tou-te-s : agir et vivre ensemble le changement » (VAATAVEC) que s'est élaborée une définition nouvelle et évolutive de l'autonomie alimentaire. De ce projet regroupant des personnes en situation de pauvreté, chercheurs et intervenants, a émergé une conceptualisation résultant à la fois d'une méthode de réflexion collective et d'un processus d'analyse collective, inspiré de la théorisation ancrée et de l'analyse conceptualisante de Paillé et Mucchielli (2003). Le recours à l'expertise des personnes en situation de pauvreté, expertes du vécu de l'insécurité alimentaire, a contribué à ancrer cette définition dans les causes structurelles de l'insécurité alimentaire dans une perspective de développement d'un pouvoir d'agir collectif, de toutes les personnes concernées. Il en résulte une définition de l'autonomie alimentaire d'où ressort une contribution surtout méthodologique et théorique.

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

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cormier, Marianne

Les faibles resultats en sciences des eleves du milieu francophone minoritaire, lors d'epreuves au plan national et international, ont interpelle la recherche de solutions. Cette these avait pour but de creer et d'experimenter un modele pedagogique pour l'enseignement des sciences en milieu linguistique minoritaire. En raison de la presence de divers degres de francite chez la clientele scolaire de ce milieu, plusieurs elements langagiers (l'ecriture, la discussion et la lecture) ont ete integres a l'apprentissage scientifique. Nous avions recommande de commencer le processus d'apprentissage avec des elements langagiers plutot informels (redaction dans un journal, discussions en dyades...) pour progresser vers des activites langagieres plus formelles (redaction de rapports ou d'explications scientifiques). En ce qui a trait a l'apprentissage scientifique, le modele preconisait une demarche d'evolution conceptuelle d'inspiration socio-constructiviste tout en s'appuyant fortement sur l'apprentissage experientiel. Lors de l'experimentation du modele, nous voulions savoir si celui-ci provoquait une evolution conceptuelle chez les eleves, et si, simultanement, le vocabulaire scientifique de ces derniers s'enrichissait. Par ailleurs, nous cherchions a comprendre comment les eleves vivaient leurs apprentissages dans le cadre de ce modele pedagogique. Une classe de cinquieme annee de l'ecole de Grande-Digue, dans le Sud-est du Nouveau-Brunswick, a participe a la mise a l'essai du modele en etudiant les marais sales locaux. Lors d'entrevues initiales, nous avons remarque que les connaissances des eleves au sujet des marais sales etaient limitees. En effet, s'ils etaient conscients que les marais etaient des lieux naturels, ils ne pouvaient pas necessairement les decrire avec precision. Nous avons egalement constate que les eleves utilisaient surtout des mots communs (plantes, oiseaux, insectes) pour decrire le marais. Les resultats obtenus indiquent que les eleves ont progresse dans leurs conceptions au sujet des marais. A la suite de l'intervention pedagogique, ils peuvent decrire le marais de facon comparable a des scientifiques en mettant a profit des mots scientifiques (spartine alterniflore, detritus, chevalier a pattes jaunes). Selon nous, les apprentissages des eleves s'expliquent surtout par la juxtaposition, dans le modele pedagogique, des elements langagiers avec une demarche de changement conceptuel a caractere experientiel. En effet, lors de cette demarche, les eleves se sont beaucoup questionnes, ont ecrit leurs reflexions, discute de leurs preoccupations et consulte des documents. Ces activites langagieres se sont deroulees directement dans le marais ainsi qu'a la suite de visites dans celui-ci. Ainsi, la possibilite de decouverte a ete reelle pour eux. Ces differents elements se sont combines pour creer une forte motivation. Le tout s'est arrime pour permettre une evolution conceptuelle et langagiere. Le modele pedagogique experimente pourrait ainsi s'averer tres fecond aupres des eleves du milieu linguistique minoritaire.

Etude theorique des fluctuations structurales dans les composes organiques a dimensionnalite reduite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dumoulin, Benoit

Les systemes a dimensionnalite reduite constituent maintenant une branche entiere de la physique de la matiere condensee. Cette derniere s'est developpee rapidement au cours des dernieres annees, avec la decouverte des materiaux organiques qui presentent, justement, des proprietes physiques fortement anisotropes. Cette these presente une etude en trois parties de plusieurs composes organiques qui, bien que tres differents du point de vue de leurs compositions chimiques et de leurs proprietes physiques a haute temperature, subissent tous une instabilite structurale a tres basse temperature. De plus, dans chacun des cas, l'instabilite structurale est precedee d'un important regime fluctuatif a partir duquel les proprietes physiques changent de maniere significative. Notre etude suit un ordre chronologique inverse puisque nous nous attardons en premier lieu au cas de composes recemment decouverts: les composes de la famille des (BCPTTF)2X (X = PF6 , AsF6). Ces derniers sont des isolants magnetiques a la temperature ambiante et subissent une instabilite structurale de type spin-Peierls a une temperature appelee TSP. En particulier, nous nous interessons a l'etude des proprietes physiques de ces systemes dans le regime fluctuatif, qui precede cette instabilite. Notre etude theorique nous permet de comprendre en detail comment ces systemes s'approchent de l'instabilite struturale. Dans la seconde partie de cette these, nous etudions le regime fluctuatif (pre-transitionnel) observe experimentalement dans le compose de (TMTTF)2PF6. Ce compose organique, dont la structure s'apparente aux sels de Bechgaard, subit une instabilite de type spin-Peierls a une temperature T SP = 19K. Bien que ce compose possede la particularite d'etre un bon conducteur a la temperature ambiante, il subit une transition de type Mott-Hubbard a une temperature Trho ≈ 220K et devient alors un isolant magnetique, analogue aux composes de la famille des (BCPTTF)2X. Le regime fluctuatif precedant l'instabilite spin-Peierls apparait ensuite vers 60K. Notre etude theorique montre qu'un modele d'electrons en interaction de type "g-ologie" avec possibilite de processus umklapp permet de bien rendre compte des proprietes physiques de ce systeme. Finalement, la troisieme partie de cette these porte sur l'etude des premiers composes organiques quasi-unidimensionnels a avoir ete synthetises: les composes de la famille du TTF-TCNQ. Notre etude theorique des instabilites structurales que presentent ces composes n'est evidemment pas la premiere. L'originalite de cette derniere est qu'elle tient compte des fortes interactions entre les electrons, presentent dans ces composes. Pour tenir compte de telles interactions, nous avons choisi la formulation "liquide de Luttinger" qui nous permet de mieux traiter ce regimne dit de couplage fort.

La forme pseudo tumorale de la tuberculose primitive du nasopharynx: à propos de deux nouvelles observations et revue de la littérature

PubMed Central

Touati, Mohammed; Aljalil, Abdelfettah; Chihani, Mehdi; Bouchentouf, Rachid; Bouaity, Brahim; Ammar, Haddou

2013-01-01

La tuberculose primitive du nasopharynx est rare, nous présentons deux observations révélées par un aspect pseudo tumoral et à travers lesquelles nous soulevons le problème de diagnostic différentiel avec les lésions malignes du nasopharynx. La première observation concerne un jeune patient de 22 ans hospitalisé pour obstruction nasale bilatérale évoluant dans un contexte d'apyrexie et de conservation de l’état général. La nasofibrosopie et le scanner ont monté un processus tumoral évoquant une hypertrophie des végétations adénoïdes. Le deuxième cas est celui d'un homme de 45 ans tabagique chronique qui a présenté une adénopathie latérocervicale droite, une obstruction nasale et une otite séromuqueuse homolatérale. La nasophibroscopie et le scanner on montré un bourgeon tumoral postéro latéral droit du nasopharynx évoquant un carcinome nasopharyngé. Les biopsies du nasopharynx et les études histologiques, chez les deux patients, ont confirmé le diagnostic de tuberculose. La recherche d'autres localisations était négative. Le pronostic était favorable après 6 mois de traitement antibacillaire. La tuberculose primitive du cavum est rare, elle revêt le plus souvent des formes pseudotumorales et pose des problèmes de diagnostic différentiel avec les tumeurs nasopharyngées, son pronostic sous traitement antibacillaire est. PMID:23565310

Determination of the dissolution slowness surface by study of etched shapes I. Morphology of the dissolution slowness surface and theoretical etched shapes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leblois, T.; Tellier, C. R.

1992-07-01

We propose a theoretical model for the anisotropic etching of crystals, in order to be applied in the micromachining. The originality of the model is due to the introduction of dissolution tensors to express the representative surface of the dissolution slowness. The knowledge of the equation of the slowness surface allows us to determine the trajectories of all the elements which compose the starting surface. It is then possible to construct the final etched shape by numerical simulation. Several examples are given in this paper which show that the final etched shapes are correlated to the extrema of the dissolution slowness. Since the slowness surface must be determined from experiments, emphasis is placed on difficulties encountered when we correlate theory to experiments. Nous avons modélisé le processus de dissolution anisotrope des cristaux en vue d'une application à la simulation des formes obtenues par photolithogravure chimique. La principale originalité de ce modèle tient à l'introduction de tenseurs de dissolution pour exprimer la surface représentative de la lenteur de dissolution. La connaissance de l'équation de la lenteur de dissolution permet de calculer les trajectoires des différents éléments constituant la surface de départ puis de reconstituer par simulation la forme dissoute. Les simulations démontrent que les formes limites des cristaux dissous sont corrélées aux extrema de la lenteur de dissolution. La détermination de la surface de la lenteur se faisant à partir de mesures expérimetales, nous nous sommes efforcés de montrer toutes les difficultés attachées à cette analyse.

Genetic diversity of the msp-1, msp-2, and glurp genes of Plasmodium falciparum isolates along the Thai-Myanmar borders.

PubMed

Congpuong, Kanungnit; Sukaram, Rungniran; Prompan, Yuparat; Dornae, Aibteesam

2014-08-01

To study the genetic diversity at the msp-1, msp-2, and glurp genes of Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) isolates from 3 endemic areas in Thailand: Tak, Kanchanaburi and Ranong provinces. A total of 144 P. falciparum isolates collected prior to treatment during January, 2012 to June, 2013 were genotyped. DNA was extracted; allele frequency and diversity of msp-1, msp-2, and glurp genes were investigated by nested polymerase chain reaction. P. falciparum isolates in this study had high rate of multiple genotypes infection (96.5%) with an overall mean multiplicity of infection of 3.21. The distribution of allelic families of msp-1 was significantly different among isolates from Tak, Kanchanaburi, and Ranong but not for the msp-2. K1 and MAD20 were the predominant allelic families at the msp-1 gene, whereas alleles belonging to 3D7 were more frequent at the msp-2 gene. The glurp gene had the least diverse alleles. Population structure of P. falciparum isolates from Tak and Ranong was quite similar as revealed by the presence of similar proportions of MAD20 and K1 alleles at msp-1 loci, 3D7 and FC27 alleles at msp-2 loci as well as comparable mean MOI. Isolates from Kanchanaburi had different structures; the most prevalent alleles were K1 and RO33. The present study shows that P. falciparum isolates from Tak and Ranong provinces had similar allelic pattern of msp-1 and msp-2 and diversity but different from Kanchanaburi isolates. These allelic variant profiles are valuable baseline data for future epidemiological study of malaria transmission and for continued monitoring of polymorphisms associated with antimalarial drug resistance in these areas.

MspA Nanopores from Subunit Dimers

PubMed Central

Pavlenok, Mikhail; Derrington, Ian M.; Gundlach, Jens H.; Niederweis, Michael

2012-01-01

Mycobacterium smegmatis porin A (MspA) forms an octameric channel and represents the founding member of a new family of pore proteins. Control of subunit stoichiometry is important to tailor MspA for nanotechnological applications. In this study, two MspA monomers were connected by linkers ranging from 17 to 62 amino acids in length. The oligomeric pore proteins were purified from M. smegmatis and were shown to form functional channels in lipid bilayer experiments. These results indicated that the peptide linkers did not prohibit correct folding and localization of MspA. However, expression levels were reduced by 10-fold compared to wild-type MspA. MspA is ideal for nanopore sequencing due to its unique pore geometry and its robustness. To assess the usefulness of MspA made from dimeric subunits for DNA sequencing, we linked two M1-MspA monomers, whose constriction zones were modified to enable DNA translocation. Lipid bilayer experiments demonstrated that this construct also formed functional channels. Voltage gating of MspA pores made from M1 monomers and M1-M1 dimers was identical indicating similar structural and dynamic channel properties. Glucose uptake in M. smegmatis cells lacking porins was restored by expressing the dimeric mspA M1 gene indicating correct folding and localization of M1-M1 pores in their native membrane. Single-stranded DNA hairpins produced identical ionic current blockades in pores made from monomers and subunit dimers demonstrating that M1-M1 pores are suitable for DNA sequencing. This study provides the proof of principle that production of single-chain MspA pores in M. smegmatis is feasible and paves the way for generating MspA pores with altered stoichiometries. Subunit dimers enable better control of the chemical and physical properties of the constriction zone of MspA. This approach will be valuable both in understanding transport across the outer membrane in mycobacteria and in tailoring MspA for nanopore sequencing of DNA. PMID:22719928

Deformation twinning in metals and ordered intermetallics-Ti and Ti-aluminides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoo, M. H.; Fu, C. L.; Lee, J. K.

1991-06-01

The role of deformation twinning in the strength and ductility of metals and ordered intermetallic alloys is examined on the basis of crystallography, energetics and kinetics of deformation twinning. A systematic analysis is made by taking Ti, Ti3AI, TiAl, and A13Ti as four model systems. In comparison with profuse twinning in Ti, the intrinsic difficulty of twinning in Ti3A1 is rationalized in terms of the interchange shuffling mechanism. A fault (SISF) dragging mechanism based on the interaction torque explains the physical source for the low mobility of screw superdislocations in TiAl, which may lead to (111) [ 11bar{2}] twin nucleation. In TiAl and A13Ti alloys, the twin-slip (ordinary) conjugate relationship makes an important contribution to the strain compatibility for high-temperature plasticity. Potentially beneficial alloying additions to promote twinning are discussed. Les conséquences de la déformation par maclage sur la fracture et la ductilité des métaux et alliages intermétalliques ordonnés sont étudiées en fonction de la cristallographie, de l'énergie et de la cinétique des déformations par maclage. Une analyse systématique a été faite en considérant Ti, Ti3AI, TiAl et A13Ti comme quatre systèmes modèles. En comparaison avec le nombre important de maclages observés dans Ti, la difficulté intrinsèque des maclages dans Ti3AI est rationalisée en terme de mécanisme d'“interchange shuffling”. Un mécanisme de “dragging fault” basé sur l'interaction “torque” explique l'origine physique de la faible mobilité des superdislocations vissées dans TiAl qui peuvent conduire à la nucléation des macles (111) 112. Dans les alliages tels TiAl et A13Ti, la relation conjuguée entre la macle et le glissement (ordinaire) contribue de façon importante à la compatibilité des contraintes lors de la déformation plastique à haute température. Des effets bénéfiques potentiels liés à des éléments d'addition sur le processus de maclage sont également discutés.

Elaboration d'un plan de transition et de mise en oeuvre pour ameliorer la gestion de l'obsolescence dans une entreprise du secteur aeronautique =

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Conrad, Heloise

L'evolution technologique des composants electroniques entraine des problemes de gestion de l'obsolescence dans le secteur aeronautique. Les systemes aeronautiques ont en effet des durees de vie nettement superieures aux composants qu'ils contiennent. Cette difference de duree de vie et les normes strictes propres a l'aeronautique obligent les constructeurs a mettre en place une gestion efficace de l'obsolescence pour eviter les couts supplementaires de maintenance et de retards. De plus, a cause des faibles volumes de production qu'ils representent, les constructeurs aeronautiques n'ont que peu de controle sur leur chaine d'approvisionnement. La litterature offre beaucoup d'etudes sur l'obsolescence, appliquees a l'aeronautique. Les auteurs recommandent de mettre en place des processus de gestion et de prevision de l'obsolescence, et de construire des relations de collaboration avec leurs fournisseurs, qui ont plus de visibilite sur la chaine d'approvisionnement. Cette recherche presente d'abord l'elaboration d'une liste de criteres de bonne gestion de l'obsolescence, ainsi que la creation d'une methode de generation de plan de transition et de mise en oeuvre de l'amelioration de la gestion et de la prevision de l'obsolescence pour un cas concret. La methode est creee pour un manufacturier aeronautique ne possedant pas de systemes de gestion proactive ou de prevision de l'obsolescence. La creation de la methode s'est faite en suivant la methodologie de la science de la conception, en impliquant les employes concernes par la gestion de l'obsolescence. La methode comporte douze (12) etapes, amenant au developpement du plan de transition et de mise en oeuvre. Pour applique la methode, divers entretiens individuels et de groupe ont ete realises. Ces entretiens ont aussi permis de lister les criteres de gestion et de prevision efficaces de l'obsolescence. Cette liste a ete comparee avec les criteres issus de la litterature. En respect des besoins enonces par les employes et des conseils d'un industriel expert en obsolescence des composants avioniques, le plan de transition et de mise en oeuvre cree se divise en trois (3) phases : 1) amelioration de la gestion de l'obsolescence, 2) amelioration de la prevision de l'obsolescence et 3) gestion des fournisseurs. Meme si le plan de transition n'a pas ete applique dans l'entreprise partenaire, la methode et le plan cree ont ete approuves par les employes et utilisateurs.

Corrosion influencée par les micro-organismes : influence du biofilm sur la corrosion des aciers, techniques et résultats recents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feugeas, F.; Magnin, J. P.; Cornet, A.; Rameau, J. J.

1997-03-01

Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (M.I.C.) studied since the beginning of this century, is responsible for the degradation of many metallic equipments. This study is a review of results dealing with M.I.C. on several types of steels as: carbon steels, stainless steels, welded steels and covered steels. M.I.C. occurs only in presence of a biofilm. The first part of this study describes chemical and physical factors involved in its development, technical methods for studying biofilms, and its contribution in the corrosion process. The second part is devoted to the study of M.I.C. cases linked with metal nature and different aqueous environments and the last part reviews the mainly mecanisms of biocorrosion. La Corrosion Influencée par les Micro-organismes (C.I.M.) ou biocorrosion, phénomène étudié depuis le début du siècle, est responsable de la dégradation d'un grand nombre d'ouvrages métalliques. Cette étude a pour but de faire le point des connaissances sur la corrosion influencée microbiologiquement de divers types d'aciers au carbone, d'aciers inoxydables, d'assemblages soudés et d'aciers revêtus. La C.I.M. n'apparaît qu'en présence d'un biofilm. La première partie de cette étude décrit les facteurs physico-chimiques impliqués dans la formation du biofilm, ces moyens d'études ainsi que son action dans le processus de biocorrosion. La seconde partie est consacrée à la description des cas de biocorrosion classés en fonction de la nature des métaux et des milieux avec lesquels ils sont en contact. La dernière partie de ce document passe en revue les principaux mécanismes de biocorrosion décrits.

Effect of Combination Therapy with Neuroprotective and Vasoprotective Agents on Cerebral Ischemia.

PubMed

Yang, Jiping; Yang, Bei; Xiu, Baoxin; Qi, Jinchong; Liu, Huaijun

2018-05-01

Because most tested drugs are active against only one of the damaging processes associated with stroke, other mechanisms may cause cellular death. Thus, a combination of protective agents targeting different pathophysiological mechanisms may obtain better effects than a single agent. The major objective of this study was to investigate the effect of combination therapy with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) after controlled ischemic brain injury in rabbits. Animals were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: sham group, saline-treated control group or NGF+VEGF-treated group. Animals received an intracerebral microinjection of VEGF and NGF or saline at 5 or 8 hours after ischemia. The two specified time points of administration were greater than or equal to the existing therapeutic time window for monoterapy with VEGF or NGF alone (3 or 5 hours of ischemia). Infarct volume, water content, neurological deficits, neural cell apoptosis and the expression of caspase-3 and Bcl-2 were measured. Compared with saline-treated controls, the combination therapy of VEGF and NGF significantly reduced infarct volume, water content, neural cell apoptosis and the expression of caspase-3, up-regulated the expression of Bcl-2 and improved functional recovery (both p<0.01) when administered 5 or 8 hours after ischemia. The earlier the administration the better the neuroprotection. These results showed that the combination therapy with VEGF and NGF provided neuroprotective effects. In addition, the time window of combination treatment should be at least 8 hours after ischemia, which was wider than monotherapy. RÉSUMÉ: Les effets d'une polythérapie combinant agents neuro-protecteurs et agents vasoprotecteurs dans les cas d'ischémie cérébrale. Contexte:Étant donné que la plupart des médicaments préalablement testés tendent à n'agir contre seulement un des processus de dommage associés aux AVC, il est possible que d'autres processus entraînent une mort cellulaire. À cet effet, il se pourrait qu'une combinaison d'agents protecteurs ciblant divers mécanismes physiopathologiques permette d'obtenir de meilleurs résultats qu'un simple agent. Après avoir suscité de façon contrôlée des lésions cérébrales ischémiques chez des lapins, l'objectif principal de la présente étude a donc été de se pencher sur l'impact d'une polythérapie combinant la protéine dite « facteur de croissance de l'endothélium vasculaire » (ou « VEGF » en anglais) avec le « facteur de croissance des nerfs » (ou « NGF » en anglais). Méthodes: Les animaux ont été attribués au hasard à l'un des groupes suivants : ceux ayant reçu un traitement fictif ; ceux, du groupe témoin, ayant bénéficié d'un traitement à base de solution saline ; et finalement ceux ayant été traités au moyen des VEGF et NGF. À noter que les lapins ont reçu une micro-injection intracérébrale de VEGF et de NGF ou de solution saline 5 heures ou 8 heures à la suite de leur AVC. Ces deux délais d'administration des VEGF et NGF sont équivalents ou supérieurs aux délais actuels d'administration des VEGF ou NGF à titre de monothérapie (3 heures ou 5 heures à la suite d'un AVC). Tant le volume des infarctus, le contenu en eau, les déficits neurologiques ainsi causés, l'apoptose des neurones que l'expression des protéases caspase 3 et des protéines Bcl-2 ont été mesurés. Résultats: Si on la compare au traitement à base de solution saline administré au groupe témoin, la polythérapie à base de VEGF et de NGF, lorsqu'administrée 5 heures ou 8 heures à la suite de l'AVC, a su réduire de façon notable le volume des infarctus, le contenu en eau, l'apoptose des neurones et l'expression des protéases caspase 3. Elle a également permis de réguler à la hausse l'expression des protéines Bcl-2 en plus d'entraîner une amélioration de la récupération fonctionnelle (p < 0,01 pour ces deux aspects). Ainsi donc, plus tôt l'on opte pour cette polythérapie, meilleure sera la neuroprotection encourue. Ces résultats démontrent que la polythérapie à base de VEGF et de NGF procure des effets neuroprotecteurs. Quant au délai d'administration de ce traitement combinatoire, il devrait être d'au moins 8 heures à la suite d'un AVC, ce qui est plus élevé que la monothérapie.

Validation d’indicateurs de la prise en charge des atteintes des fonctions cognitives dans les unités d’évaluation gériatrique

PubMed Central

Payot, Isabelle; Latour, Judith; Massoud, Fadi; Kergoat, Marie-Jeanne

2007-01-01

RÉSUMÉ OBJECTIF Analyser et adapter des indicateurs de qualité pour l’évaluation et la prise en charge des personnes avec atteinte des fonctions cognitives, dont la prévalence est très élevée dans les unités d’évaluation gériatrique au Québec. DEVIS Une méthode de type Delphi-modifiée. CONTEXTE Province de Québec. PARTICIPANTS Sept praticiens de milieux hospitaliers affiliés à 3 universités du Québec choisis pour leur compétence reconnue en démence et soins gériatriques. MÉTHODE Parmi les indicateurs développés en 2001 par la méthode RAND, 22 items sélectionnés pour leur pertinence au cours du processus d’évaluation et de prise en charge d’une atteinte des fonctions cognitives ont été adaptés aux conditions de pratique du milieu hospitalier québécois. Les indicateurs, accompagnés d’évidences de la littérature, ont été soumis, par la poste, à un panel d’experts. Chaque expert a coté, sur une échelle de 1 à 9, son degré d’accord à des affirmations concernant la validité, la qualité et la nécessité d’être inscrit dans le dossier médical. Pour qu’un indicateur soit retenu, il devait faire consensus selon les valeurs médianes, être situé dans le tertile supérieur et recevoir l’agrément des experts. Les indicateurs incertains étaient modifiés en fonction des commentaires des experts, puis soumis au même panel pour un second tour. RÉSULTATS Des 22 indicateurs soumis au premier tour, 21 ont été validés. Ils prenaient en compte le dépistage, l’investigation, l’évaluation, le traitement et le suivi. L’indicateur considéré comme incertain a été modifié puis accepté lors du second tour. CONCLUSION Cette étude a identifié 22 indicateurs pertinents pour l’évaluation et la prise en charge de l’atteinte des fonctions cognitives dans une unité d’évaluation gériatrique. Ils serviront de base à l’appréciation de la problématique de la démence, dans une étude ayant cours sur la qualité des soins dans l’ensemble des unités de courte durée gériatriques des hôpitaux généraux duQuébec. PMID:18000272

Internal and Surface-Localized Major Surface Proteases of Leishmania spp. and Their Differential Release from Promastigotes▿

PubMed Central

Yao, Chaoqun; Donelson, John E.; Wilson, Mary E.

2007-01-01

Major surface protease (MSP), also called GP63, is a virulence factor of Leishmania spp. protozoa. There are three pools of MSP, located either internally within the parasite, anchored to the surface membrane, or released into the extracellular environment. The regulation and biological functions of these MSP pools are unknown. We investigated here the trafficking and extrusion of surface versus internal MSPs. Virulent Leishmania chagasi undergo a growth-associated lengthening in the t1/2 of surface-localized MSP, but this did not occur in the attenuated L5 strain. The release of surface-localized MSP was enhanced in a dose-dependent manner by MβCD, which chelates membrane cholesterol-ergosterol. Furthermore, incubation of promastigotes at 37°C with Matrigel matrix, a soluble basement membrane extract of Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm tumor cells, stimulated the release of internal MSP but not of surface-located MSP. Taken together, these data indicate that MSP subpopulations in distinct cellular locations are released from the parasite under different environmental conditions. We hypothesize that the internal MSP with its lengthy t1/2 does not serve as a pool for promastigote surface MSP in the sand fly vector but that it instead functions as an MSP pool ready for quick release upon inoculation of metacyclic promastigotes into mammals. We present a model in which these different MSP pools are released under distinct life cycle-specific conditions. PMID:17693594

RINT-1 interacts with MSP58 within nucleoli and plays a role in ribosomal gene transcription.

PubMed

Yang, Chuan-Pin; Kuo, Yu-Liang; Lee, Yi-Chao; Lee, Kuen-Haur; Chiang, Chi-Wu; Wang, Ju-Ming; Hsu, Che-Chia; Chang, Wen-Chang; Lin, Ding-Yen

2016-09-16

The nucleolus is the cellular site of ribosomal (r)DNA transcription and ribosome biogenesis. The 58-kDa microspherule protein (MSP58) is a nucleolar protein involved in rDNA transcription and cell proliferation. However, regulation of MSP58-mediated rDNA transcription remains unknown. Using a yeast two-hybrid system with MSP58 as bait, we isolated complementary (c)DNA encoding Rad50-interacting protein 1 (RINT-1), as a MSP58-binding protein. RINT-1 was implicated in the cell cycle checkpoint, membrane trafficking, Golgi apparatus and centrosome dynamic integrity, and telomere length control. Both in vitro and in vivo interaction assays showed that MSP58 directly interacts with RINT-1. Interestingly, microscopic studies revealed the co-localization of MSP58, RINT-1, and the upstream binding factor (UBF), a rRNA transcription factor, in the nucleolus. We showed that ectopic expression of MSP58 or RINT-1 resulted in decreased rRNA expression and rDNA promoter activity, whereas knockdown of MSP58 or RINT-1 by siRNA exerted the opposite effect. Coexpression of MSP58 and RINT-1 robustly decreased rRNA synthesis compared to overexpression of either protein alone, whereas depletion of RINT-1 from MSP58-transfected cells enhanced rRNA synthesis. We also found that MSP58, RINT-1, and the UBF were associated with the rDNA promoter using a chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Because aberrant ribosome biogenesis contributes to neoplastic transformation, our results revealed a novel protein complex involved in the regulation of rRNA gene expression, suggesting a role for MSP58 and RINT-1 in cancer development. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Mental stress and psychosocial factors at work in relation to multiple-site musculoskeletal pain: a longitudinal study of kitchen workers.

PubMed

Haukka, Eija; Leino-Arjas, Päivi; Ojajärvi, Anneli; Takala, Esa-Pekka; Viikari-Juntura, Eira; Riihimäki, Hilkka

2011-04-01

Among 385 female kitchen workers, we examined (1) whether mental stress and psychosocial factors at work (job control, skill discretion, supervisor support, co-worker relationships, and hurry) predict multiple-site musculoskeletal pain (MSP; defined as pain at ≥ 3 of seven sites) and (2) reversedly, whether MSP predicts these psychosocial factors. Data were collected by questionnaire at 3-month intervals during 2 years. Trajectory analysis was applied. Four trajectories of MSP prevalence emerged: Low, Descending, Ascending, and High. For the psychosocial factors, a two-trajectory model (Ascending or High vs. Low) yielded the best fit. In logistic regression analysis, with the Low MSP trajectory as reference, poor co-worker relationships (odds ratio [OR] 3.9), mental stress (3.1) and hurry (2.1) at baseline predicted belonging to the High MSP trajectory. Also MSP at baseline predicted the trajectories (Ascending vs. Low) of low job control (2.2) and mental stress (3.2). Adverse changes in most psychosocial factors were associated with belonging to the High (ORs between 2.3 and 8.6) and Ascending (2.7-5.5) MSP trajectories. In generalized estimating equations, time-lagged by 3 months, all psychosocial factors but two predicted MSP (1.4-2.1), allowing, e.g. for MSP at baseline, and vice versa, MSP predicted low job control, low supervisor support, and mental stress (1.4-2.0), after adjustment for e.g. the relevant psychosocial factor at baseline. In conclusion, we found that several psychosocial factors predicted MSP and that MSP predicted several psychosocial factors. The results suggest a cumulative process in which adverse psychosocial factors and MSP influence each other. Copyright © 2010 European Federation of International Association for the Study of Pain Chapters. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of environmental factors on MSP21-25 aggregation indicate the roles of hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions in the aggregation process.

PubMed

Zhang, Xuecheng; Dong, Yuanqiu; Yu, Jigang; Tu, Xiaoming

2014-01-01

Merozoite surface protein 2 (MSP2), one of the most abundant proteins on the merozoite surface of Plasmodium falciparum, is recognized to be important for the parasite's invasion into the host cell and is thus a promising malaria vaccine candidate. However, mediated mainly by its conserved N-terminal 25 residues (MSP21-25), MSP2 readily forms amyloid fibril-like aggregates under physiological conditions in vitro, which impairs its potential as a vaccine component. In addition, there is evidence that MSP2 exists in aggregated forms on the merozoite surface in vivo. To elucidate the aggregation mechanism of MSP21-25 and thereby understand the behavior of MSP2 in vivo and find ways to avoid the aggregation of relevant vaccine in vitro, we investigated the effects of agitation, pH, salts, 1-anilinonaphthalene-8-sulfonic acid (ANS), trimethylamine N-oxide dihydrate (TMAO), urea, and sub-micellar sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) on the aggregation kinetics of MSP21-25 using thioflavin T (ThT) fluorescence. The results showed that MSP21-25 aggregation was accelerated by agitation, while repressed by acidic pHs. The salts promoted the aggregation in an anion nature-dependent pattern. Hydrophobic surface-binding agent ANS and detergent urea repressed MSP21-25 aggregation, in contrast to hydrophobic interaction strengthener TMAO, which enhanced the aggregation. Notably, sub-micellar SDS, contrary to its micellar form, promoted MSP21-25 aggregation significantly. Our data indicated that hydrophobic interactions are the predominant driving force of the nucleation of MSP21-25 aggregation, while the elongation is controlled mainly by electrostatic interactions. A kinetic model of MSP21-25 aggregation and its implication were also discussed.

The significance of microbial processes in hydrogeology and geochemistry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chapelle, Francis H.

Microbial processes affect the chemical composition of groundwater and the hydraulic properties of aquifers in both contaminated and pristine groundwater systems. The patterns of water-chemistry changes that occur depend upon the relative abundance of electron donors and electron acceptors. In many pristine aquifers, where microbial metabolism is limited by the availability of electron donors (usually organic matter), dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) accumulates slowly along aquifer flow paths and available electron acceptors are consumed sequentially in the order dissolved oxygen >nitrate>Fe(III)>sulfate>CO2 (methanogenesis). In aquifers contaminated by anthropogenic contaminants, an excess of available organic carbon often exists, and microbial metabolism is limited by the availability of electron acceptors. In addition to changes in groundwater chemistry, the solid matrix of the aquifer is affected by microbial processes. The production of carbon dioxide and organic acids can lead to increased mineral solubility, which can lead to the development of secondary porosity and permeability. Conversely, microbial production of carbonate, ferrous iron, and sulfide can result in the precipitation of secondary calcite or pyrite cements that reduce primary porosity and permeability in groundwater systems. Les processus microbiologiques peuvent affecter la composition chimique de l'eau souterraine et les propriétés hydrauliques des nappes aussi bien dans les systèmes aquifères pollués que dans les systèmes indemnes de pollution. Les changements de chimisme des eaux qui se produisent dépendent de l'abondance relative des donneurs et des accepteurs d'électrons. Dans les aquifères non contaminés, où le métabolisme microbien est limité par la disponibilité des donneurs d'électrons (en général la matière organique), le carbone minéral dissous (CMD) s'accumule lentement le long des axes d'écoulement souterrain et les accepteurs d'électrons disponibles sont consommés de façon séquentielle, dans l'ordre oxygène dissous>nitrate>fer (III)>sulfate>CO2 (méthanogenèse). Dans les aquifères pollués par des contaminants d'origine humaine, il existe un excès de carbone organique disponible et le métabolisme microbien est limité par la disponibilité des accepteurs d'électrons. En plus des modifications du chimisme des eaux souterraines, la matrice encaissante de l'aquifère est affectée par des processus microbiens. La production de dioxyde de carbone et d'acides organiques peut conduire à accroître la solubilité de minéraux, ce qui peut produire un développement de la porosité secondaire et de la perméabilité. Inversement, la production microbienne de carbonate, de fer ferreux et de sulfure peut provoquer la précipitation de ciments de calcite secondaire ou de pyrite qui réduisent la porosité primaire et la perméabilité dans les nappes. Los procesos microbianos afectan la composición química y las propiedades hidráulicas de los acuíferos, independientemente de su grado de contaminación. Los cambios en la química de las aguas dependen de la abundancia relativa entre donantes y receptores de electrones. En muchos acuíferos no contaminados, donde el metabolismo de los microbios está limitado por la disponibilidad de donantes de electrones (normalmente materia orgánica), el carbono inorgánico disuelto (CID) se acumula lentamente a lo largo de las líneas de flujo y los receptores de electrones se consumen sucesivamente en el siguiente orden: oxígeno disuelto>nitrato>Fe (III)>sulfato>CO2 (metanogénesis). En los acuíferos que presentan contaminación antrópica, existe un exceso de carbono orgánico disponible y entonces el metabolismo de los microbios se encuentra limitado por la disponibilidad de receptores de electrones. Además de los cambios en la química de las aguas, los procesos microbianos afectan también a la matriz sólida del acuífero la producción de CO2 y de ácidos orgánicos puede dar lugar a una mayor solubilidad del mineral, lo que supone un aumento en porosidad secundaria y permeabilidad. Por el contrario, los procesos microbianos pueden dar lugar a la producción de carbonato, ión ferroso y sulfuro, precipitando calcita o pirita y reduciendo la porosidad primaria y la permeabilidad.

Low level of sequence diversity at merozoite surface protein-1 locus of Plasmodium ovale curtisi and P. ovale wallikeri from Thai isolates.

PubMed

Putaporntip, Chaturong; Hughes, Austin L; Jongwutiwes, Somchai

2013-01-01

The merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP-1) is a candidate target for the development of blood stage vaccines against malaria. Polymorphism in MSP-1 can be useful as a genetic marker for strain differentiation in malarial parasites. Although sequence diversity in the MSP-1 locus has been extensively analyzed in field isolates of Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax, the extent of variation in its homologues in P. ovale curtisi and P. ovale wallikeri, remains unknown. Analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences of 10 P. ovale isolates from symptomatic malaria patients from diverse endemic areas of Thailand revealed co-existence of P. ovale curtisi (n = 5) and P. ovale wallikeri (n = 5). Direct sequencing of the PCR-amplified products encompassing the entire coding region of MSP-1 of P. ovale curtisi (PocMSP-1) and P. ovale wallikeri (PowMSP-1) has identified 3 imperfect repeated segments in the former and one in the latter. Most amino acid differences between these proteins were located in the interspecies variable domains of malarial MSP-1. Synonymous nucleotide diversity (πS) exceeded nonsynonymous nucleotide diversity (πN) for both PocMSP-1 and PowMSP-1, albeit at a non-significant level. However, when MSP-1 of both these species was considered together, πS was significantly greater than πN (p<0.0001), suggesting that purifying selection has shaped diversity at this locus prior to speciation. Phylogenetic analysis based on conserved domains has placed PocMSP-1 and PowMSP-1 in a distinct bifurcating branch that probably diverged from each other around 4.5 million years ago. The MSP-1 sequences support that P. ovale curtisi and P. ovale wallikeri are distinct species. Both species are sympatric in Thailand. The low level of sequence diversity in PocMSP-1 and PowMSP-1 among Thai isolates could stem from persistent low prevalence of these species, limiting the chance of outcrossing at this locus.

Low Level of Sequence Diversity at Merozoite Surface Protein-1 Locus of Plasmodium ovale curtisi and P. ovale wallikeri from Thai Isolates

PubMed Central

Putaporntip, Chaturong; Hughes, Austin L.; Jongwutiwes, Somchai

2013-01-01

Background The merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP-1) is a candidate target for the development of blood stage vaccines against malaria. Polymorphism in MSP-1 can be useful as a genetic marker for strain differentiation in malarial parasites. Although sequence diversity in the MSP-1 locus has been extensively analyzed in field isolates of Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax, the extent of variation in its homologues in P. ovale curtisi and P. ovale wallikeri, remains unknown. Methodology/Principal Findings Analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences of 10 P. ovale isolates from symptomatic malaria patients from diverse endemic areas of Thailand revealed co-existence of P. ovale curtisi (n = 5) and P. ovale wallikeri (n = 5). Direct sequencing of the PCR-amplified products encompassing the entire coding region of MSP-1 of P. ovale curtisi (PocMSP-1) and P. ovale wallikeri (PowMSP-1) has identified 3 imperfect repeated segments in the former and one in the latter. Most amino acid differences between these proteins were located in the interspecies variable domains of malarial MSP-1. Synonymous nucleotide diversity (πS) exceeded nonsynonymous nucleotide diversity (πN) for both PocMSP-1 and PowMSP-1, albeit at a non-significant level. However, when MSP-1 of both these species was considered together, πS was significantly greater than πN (p<0.0001), suggesting that purifying selection has shaped diversity at this locus prior to speciation. Phylogenetic analysis based on conserved domains has placed PocMSP-1 and PowMSP-1 in a distinct bifurcating branch that probably diverged from each other around 4.5 million years ago. Conclusion/Significance The MSP-1 sequences support that P. ovale curtisi and P. ovale wallikeri are distinct species. Both species are sympatric in Thailand. The low level of sequence diversity in PocMSP-1 and PowMSP-1 among Thai isolates could stem from persistent low prevalence of these species, limiting the chance of outcrossing at this locus. PMID:23536840

Etude energetique et modelisation d'un Systeme Hybride Eolien-Diesel avec stockage d'Air Comprime (SHEDAC)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martinez, Nicolas

Actuellement le Canada et plus specialement le Quebec, comptent une multitude de sites isoles dont !'electrification est assuree essentiellement par des generatrices diesel a cause, principalement, de l'eloignement du reseau central de disuibution electrique. Bien que consideree comme une source fiable et continue, 1 'utilisation des generatrices diesel devient de plus en plus problematique d'un point de vue energetique, economique et environnemental. Dans le but d'y resoudre et de proposer une methode d'approvisionnement plus performante, mains onereuse et plus respectueuse de l'environnement, l'usage des energies renouvelables est devenu indispensable. Differents travaux ont alors demontre que le couplage de ces energies avec des generauices diesel, formant des systemes hybrides, semble etre une des meilleures solutions. Parmi elles, le systeme hybride eolien-diesel avec stockage par air comprime (SHEDAC) se presente comme une configuration optimale pour 1 'electrification des sites isoles. En effet, differentes etudes ont permis de mettre en avant l'efficacite du stockage par air comprime, par rapport a d'autres technologies de stockage, en complement d'un systeme hybride eolien-diesel. Plus precisement, ce systeme se compose de sous-systemes qui sont: des eoliennes, des generatrices diesel et une chaine de compression et de stockage d'air comprime qui est ensuite utilisee pour suralimenter les generatrices. Ce processus permet ainsi de reduire Ia consommation en carburant tout en agrandissant la part d'energie renouvelable dans Ia production electrique. A ce jour, divers travaux de recherche ont pennis de demontrer I' efficacite d 'un tel systeme et de presenter une variete de configurations possibles. A travers ce memoire, un logiciel de dimensionnement energetique y est elabore dans le but d'unifom1iser !'approche energetique de cette technologie. Cet outil se veut etre une innovation dans le domaine puisqu'il est actuellement impossible de dimensionner un SHEDAC avec les outils existants. Un etat de l'art specifique associe a une validation des resultats a ete realise dans le but de proposer un logiciel fiable et performant. Dans une logique visant !'implantation d'un SHEDAC sur un site isole du Nord-du-Quebec, le logiciel developpe a ete, ensuite, utilise pour realiser une etude energetique permettant d' en degager la solution optimale a mettre en place. Enfin, a l' aide des outils et des resultats obtenus precedemment, !'elaboration de nouvelles strategies d'operation est presentee dans le but de demontrer comment le systeme pourrait etre optimise afm de repondre a differentes contraintes techniques. Le contenu de ce memoire est presente sous forme de trois articles originaux, soumis a des joumaux scientifiques avec cornite de lecture, et d'un chapitre specifique presentant les nouvelles strategies d 'operation. Ils relatent des travaux decrits dans le paragraphe precedent et permettent d'en deduire un usage concluant et pertinent du SHEDAC dans un site isole nordique.

Mesure et retroaction sur un qubit multi-niveaux en electrodynamique quantique en circuit non lineair

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boissonneault, Maxime

L'electrodynamique quantique en circuit est une architecture prometteuse pour le calcul quantique ainsi que pour etudier l'optique quantique. Dans cette architecture, on couple un ou plusieurs qubits supraconducteurs jouant le role d'atomes a un ou plusieurs resonateurs jouant le role de cavites optiques. Dans cette these, j'etudie l'interaction entre un seul qubit supraconducteur et un seul resonateur, en permettant cependant au qubit d'avoir plus de deux niveaux et au resonateur d'avoir une non-linearite Kerr. Je m'interesse particulierement a la lecture de l'etat du qubit et a son amelioration, a la retroaction du processus de mesure sur le qubit de meme qu'a l'etude des proprietes quantiques du resonateur a l'aide du qubit. J'utilise pour ce faire un modele analytique reduit que je developpe a partir de la description complete du systeme en utilisant principalement des transfprmations unitaires et une elimination adiabatique. J'utilise aussi une librairie de calcul numerique maison permettant de simuler efficacement l'evolution du systeme complet. Je compare les predictions du modele analytique reduit et les resultats de simulations numeriques a des resultats experimentaux obtenus par l'equipe de quantronique du CEASaclay. Ces resultats sont ceux d'une spectroscopie d'un qubit supraconducteur couple a un resonateur non lineaire excite. Dans un regime de faible puissance de spectroscopie le modele reduit predit correctement la position et la largeur de la raie. La position de la raie subit les decalages de Lamb et de Stark, et sa largeur est dominee par un dephasage induit par le processus de mesure. Je montre que, pour les parametres typiques de l'electrodynamique quantique en circuit, un accord quantitatif requiert un modele en reponse non lineaire du champ intra-resonateur, tel que celui developpe. Dans un regime de forte puissance de spectroscopie, des bandes laterales apparaissent et sont causees par les fluctuations quantiques du champ electromagnetique intra-resonateur autour de sa valeur d'equilibre. Ces fluctuations sont causees par la compression du champ electromagnetique due a la non-linearite du resonateur, et l'observation de leur effet via la spectroscopie d'un qubit constitue une premiere. Suite aux succes quantitatifs du modele reduit, je montre que deux regimes de parametres ameliorent marginalement la mesure dispersive d'un qubit avec un resonateur lineaire, et significativement une mesure par bifurcation avec un resonateur non lineaire. J'explique le fonctionnement d'une mesure de qubit dans un resonateur lineaire developpee par une equipe experimentale de l'Universite de Yale. Cette mesure, qui utilise les non-linearites induites par le qubit, a une haute fidelite, mais utilise une tres haute puissance et est destructrice. Dans tous ces cas, la structure multi-niveaux du qubit s'avere cruciale pour la mesure. En suggerant des facons d'ameliorer la mesure de qubits supraconducteurs, et en decrivant quantitativement la physique d'un systeme a plusieurs niveaux couple a un resonateur non lineaire excite, les resultats presentes dans cette these sont pertinents autant pour l'utilisation de l'architecture d'electrodynamique quantique en circuit pour l'informatique quantique que pour l'optique quantique. Mots-cles: electrodynamique quantique en circuit, informatique quantique, mesure, qubit supraconducteur, transmon, non-linearite Kerr

Validation materielle d'une architecture generique de reseaux avioniques basee sur une gestion modulaire de la redondance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tremblay, Jose-Philippe

Les systemes avioniques ne cessent d'evoluer depuis l'apparition des technologies numeriques au tournant des annees 60. Apres le passage par plusieurs paradigmes de developpement, ces systemes suivent maintenant l'approche " Integrated Modular Avionics " (IMA) depuis le debut des annees 2000. Contrairement aux methodes anterieures, cette approche est basee sur une conception modulaire, un partage de ressources generiques entre plusieurs systemes et l'utilisation plus poussee de bus multiplexes. La plupart des concepts utilises par l'architecture IMA, bien que deja connus dans le domaine de l'informatique distribuee, constituent un changement marque par rapport aux modeles anterieurs dans le monde avionique. Ceux-ci viennent s'ajouter aux contraintes importantes de l'avionique classique telles que le determinisme, le temps reel, la certification et les cibles elevees de fiabilite. L'adoption de l'approche IMA a declenche une revision de plusieurs aspects de la conception, de la certification et de l'implementation d'un systeme IMA afin d'en tirer profit. Cette revision, ralentie par les contraintes avioniques, est toujours en cours, et offre encore l'opportunite de developpement de nouveaux outils, methodes et modeles a tous les niveaux du processus d'implementation d?un systeme IMA. Dans un contexte de proposition et de validation d'une nouvelle architecture IMA pour un reseau generique de capteurs a bord d?un avion, nous avons identifie quelques aspects des differentes approches traditionnelles pour la realisation de ce type d?architecture pouvant etre ameliores. Afin de remedier a certaines des differentes lacunes identifiees, nous avons propose une approche de validation basee sur une plateforme materielle reconfigurable ainsi qu'une nouvelle approche de gestion de la redondance pour l'atteinte des cibles de fiabilite. Contrairement aux outils statiques plus limites satisfaisant les besoins pour la conception d'une architecture federee, notre approche de validation est specifiquement developpee de maniere a faciliter la conception d'une architecture IMA. Dans le cadre de cette these, trois axes principaux de contributions originales se sont degages des travaux executes suivant les differents objectifs de recherche enonces precedemment. Le premier axe se situe au niveau de la proposition d'une architecture hierarchique de reseau de capteurs s'appuyant sur le modele de base de la norme IEEE 1451. Cette norme facilite l'integration de capteurs et actuateurs intelligents a tout systeme de commande par des interfaces normalisees et generiques.

Comprendre l'influence des facteurs contextuels sur la participation communautaire à la santé : une étude de cas dans le district sanitaire de Tenkodogo, au Burkina Faso.

PubMed

Sombié, Issa; Ilboudo, David O S; Soubeiga, André Kamba; Samuelsen, Helle

2017-09-01

Le Burkina Faso met en œuvre depuis plusieurs années la stratégie de la participation communautaire. Des comités de gestion (CoGes) ont été mis en place dans les centres de santé de la première ligne et doivent participer aux prises de décisions. L'objectif principal de cette stratégie est de favoriser l'utilisation des services de santé et une adhésion massive des communautés aux activités de promotion de la santé. Seulement, on constate que les résultats escomptés par les autorités sanitaires tardent à se réaliser. Le présent article convoque les facteurs liés au contexte socioculturel du district sanitaire, pour analyser le phénomène de la participation communautaire. L'étude s'est déroulée dans le district sanitaire de Tenkodogo, situé dans la région administrative du Centre-est, à environ 190 km de la capitale. Cette étude exclusivement qualitative, a utilisé deux méthodes de collecte : les entretiens individuels et les focus groups. Les participants à l'étude sont les chefs de ménage ( n = 48), les membres des CoGes ( n = 10), les agents de santé ( n = 8) et les agents de santé communautaire ( n = 24). La méthode de l'analyse de contenu a été utilisée pour l'analyse des données. Les résultats de l'étude montrent que plusieurs facteurs socioculturels influencent la dynamique de la participation communautaire dans le district. Ce sont les conditions économiques, la perception négative des services de santé, les inégalités sociales de sexe et d'âge, le faible ancrage social des organisations communautaires, les rivalités inter-villages et les conflits coutumiers. L'étude relève également que les communautés ne perçoivent pas leur implication dans le processus décisionnel des services de santé comme une priorité. Leurs principales attentes s'orientent vers la disponibilité de soins de qualité et à coût réduit.

Think Again: First Do No Harm: A Case of Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy.

PubMed

Yalndağ-Öztürk, Nilüfer; Erkek, Nilgün; Şirinoğlu, Melis Bayram

2015-10-01

Apparent life-threatening events caused by Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSP) are rare but difficult to resolve medically. Failure to properly diagnose MSP can lead to further abuse by the caregiver and increase the risk of complications due to long hospital stays and invasive tests. In this paper, we describe our experiences with a baby who ended up being diagnosed with MSP, including our initial failure to find a pathology, delay of MSP diagnosis, our growing suspicion of MSP despite technical setbacks, our actions after we confirmed MSP as the cause of his hospitalizations. We also describe the difficulties of diagnosing MSP compared to more traditional problems and explain a series of precautions and guidelines to help detect it in a timely manner.

Oral treponeme major surface protein: Sequence diversity and distributions within periodontal niches.

PubMed

You, M; Chan, Y; Lacap-Bugler, D C; Huo, Y-B; Gao, W; Leung, W K; Watt, R M

2017-12-01

Treponema denticola and other species (phylotypes) of oral spirochetes are widely considered to play important etiological roles in periodontitis and other oral infections. The major surface protein (Msp) of T. denticola is directly implicated in several pathological mechanisms. Here, we have analyzed msp sequence diversity across 68 strains of oral phylogroup 1 and 2 treponemes; including reference strains of T. denticola, Treponema putidum, Treponema medium, 'Treponema vincentii', and 'Treponema sinensis'. All encoded Msp proteins contained highly conserved, taxon-specific signal peptides, and shared a predicted 'three-domain' structure. A clone-based strategy employing 'msp-specific' polymerase chain reaction primers was used to analyze msp gene sequence diversity present in subgingival plaque samples collected from a group of individuals with chronic periodontitis (n=10), vs periodontitis-free controls (n=10). We obtained 626 clinical msp gene sequences, which were assigned to 21 distinct 'clinical msp genotypes' (95% sequence identity cut-off). The most frequently detected clinical msp genotype corresponded to T. denticola ATCC 35405 T , but this was not correlated to disease status. UniFrac and libshuff analysis revealed that individuals with periodontitis and periodontitis-free controls harbored significantly different communities of treponeme clinical msp genotypes (P<.001). Patients with periodontitis had higher levels of clinical msp genotype diversity than periodontitis-free controls (Mann-Whitney U-test, P<.05). The relative proportions of 'T. vincentii' clinical msp genotypes were significantly higher in the control group than in the periodontitis group (P=.018). In conclusion, our data clearly show that both healthy and diseased individuals commonly harbor a wide diversity of Treponema clinical msp genotypes within their subgingival niches. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Quantifying the Importance of MSP1-19 as a Target of Growth-Inhibitory and Protective Antibodies against Plasmodium falciparum in Humans

PubMed Central

Wilson, Danny W.; Fowkes, Freya J. I.; Gilson, Paul R.; Elliott, Salenna R.; Tavul, Livingstone; Michon, Pascal; Dabod, Elija; Siba, Peter M.; Mueller, Ivo; Crabb, Brendan S.; Beeson, James G.

2011-01-01

Background Antibodies targeting blood stage antigens are important in protection against malaria, but the key targets and mechanisms of immunity are not well understood. Merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1) is an abundant and essential protein. The C-terminal 19 kDa region (MSP1-19) is regarded as a promising vaccine candidate and may also be an important target of immunity. Methodology/Findings Growth inhibitory antibodies against asexual-stage parasites and IgG to recombinant MSP1-19 were measured in plasma samples from a longitudinal cohort of 206 children in Papua New Guinea. Differential inhibition by samples of mutant P. falciparum lines that expressed either the P. falciparum or P. chabaudi form of MSP1-19 were used to quantify MSP1-19 specific growth-inhibitory antibodies. The great majority of children had detectable IgG to MSP1-19, and high levels of IgG were significantly associated with a reduced risk of symptomatic P. falciparum malaria during the 6-month follow-up period. However, there was little evidence of PfMSP1-19 specific growth inhibition by plasma samples from children. Similar results were found when testing non-dialysed or dialysed plasma, or purified antibodies, or when measuring growth inhibition in flow cytometry or microscopy-based assays. Rabbit antisera generated by immunization with recombinant MSP1-19 demonstrated strong MSP1-19 specific growth-inhibitory activity, which appeared to be due to much higher antibody levels than human samples; antibody avidity was similar between rabbit antisera and human plasma. Conclusions/Significance These data suggest that MSP1-19 is not a major target of growth inhibitory antibodies and that the protective effects of antibodies to MSP1-19 are not due to growth inhibitory activity, but may instead be mediated by other mechanisms. Alternatively, antibodies to MSP1-19 may act as a marker of protective immunity. PMID:22110733

Msp1 Is a Membrane Protein Dislocase for Tail-Anchored Proteins.

PubMed

Wohlever, Matthew L; Mateja, Agnieszka; McGilvray, Philip T; Day, Kasey J; Keenan, Robert J

2017-07-20

Mislocalized tail-anchored (TA) proteins of the outer mitochondrial membrane are cleared by a newly identified quality control pathway involving the conserved eukaryotic protein Msp1 (ATAD1 in humans). Msp1 is a transmembrane AAA-ATPase, but its role in TA protein clearance is not known. Here, using purified components reconstituted into proteoliposomes, we show that Msp1 is both necessary and sufficient to drive the ATP-dependent extraction of TA proteins from the membrane. A crystal structure of the Msp1 cytosolic region modeled into a ring hexamer suggests that active Msp1 contains a conserved membrane-facing surface adjacent to a central pore. Structure-guided mutagenesis of the pore residues shows that they are critical for TA protein extraction in vitro and for functional complementation of an msp1 deletion in yeast. Together, these data provide a molecular framework for Msp1-dependent extraction of mislocalized TA proteins from the outer mitochondrial membrane. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Plasmodium falciparum msp1 and msp2 genetic diversity and allele frequencies in parasites isolated from symptomatic malaria patients in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.

PubMed

Somé, Anyirékun Fabrice; Bazié, Thomas; Zongo, Issaka; Yerbanga, R Serge; Nikiéma, Frédéric; Neya, Cathérine; Taho, Liz Karen; Ouédraogo, Jean-Bosco

2018-05-30

In Burkina Faso, malaria remains the overall leading cause of morbidity and mortality accounting for 35.12% of consultations, 40.83% of hospitalizations and 37.5% of deaths. Genotyping of malaria parasite populations remains an important tool to determine the types and number of parasite clones in an infection. The present study aimed to evaluate the merozoite surface protein 1 (msp1) and merozoite surface protein 2 (msp2) genetic diversity and allele frequencies in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Dried blood spots (DBS) were collected at baseline from patients with uncomplicated malaria in urban health centers in Bobo-Dioulasso. Parasite DNA was extracted using chelex-100 and species were identified using nested PCR. Plamodium falciparum msp1 and msp2 genes were amplified by nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and PCR products were analyzed by electrophoresis on a 2.5% agarose gel. Alleles were categorized according to their molecular weight. A total of 228 blood samples were analyzed out of which 227 (99.9%) were confirmed as P. falciparum-positive and one sample classified as mixed infection for P. malaria and P. falciparum. In msp1, the K1 allelic family was predominant with 77.4% (162/209) followed respectively by the MAD20 allelic family with 41.3% and R033 allelic family with 36%. In msp2, the 3D7 allelic family was the most frequently detected with 93.1 % compared to FC27 with 41.3%. Twenty-one different alleles were observed in msp1 with 9 alleles for K1, 8 alleles for MAD20 and 4 alleles for R033. In msp2, 25 individual alleles were detected with 10 alleles for FC27 and 15 alleles for 3D7. The mean multiplicity of falciparum infection was 1.95 with respectively 1.8 (1.76-1.83) and 2.1 (2.03-2.16) for msp1 and msp2 (P = 0.01). Our study showed high genetic diversity and allelic frequencies of msp1 and msp2 in Plasmodium falciparum isolates from symptomatic malaria patients in Bobo-Dioulasso.

Plasmodium falciparum Genetic Diversity in Bangladesh Does Not Suggest a Hypoendemic Population Structure

PubMed Central

Alam, Mohammad Shafiul; Elahi, Rubayet; Mohon, Abu Naser; Al-Amin, Hasan Mohammad; Kibria, Mohammad Golam; Khan, Wasif A.; Khanum, Hamida; Haque, Rashidul

2016-01-01

Despite the recommendation for the use of merozoite surface protein 1 (msp1), merozoite surface protein 2 (msp2), and glutamate-rich protein (glurp) genes as markers in drug efficacy studies by World Health Organization and their limited use in Bangladesh, the circulating Plasmodium falciparum population genetic structure has not yet been assessed in Bangladesh. This study presents a comprehensive report on the circulating P. falciparum population structure based on msp1, msp2, and glurp polymorphic gene markers in Bangladesh. Among the 130 pretreatment (day 0) P. falciparum samples from seven malaria-endemic districts, 14 distinct genotypes were observed for msp1, 20 for msp2, and 13 for glurp. Polyclonal infection was reported in 94.6% (N = 123) of the samples. Multiplicity of infection (MOI) for msp1 was the highest (1.5) among the MOIs of the markers. The heterozygosity for msp1, msp2, and glurp was 0.89, 0.93, and 0.83, respectively. Data according to different malaria-endemic areas are also presented and discussed. Bangladesh is considered as a malaria-hypoendemic country. However, the prevalence of polyclonal infection and the genetic diversity of P. falciparum do not represent hypoendemicity. PMID:27139455

A Phase 1 Trial of MSP2-C1, a Blood-Stage Malaria Vaccine Containing 2 Isoforms of MSP2 Formulated with Montanide® ISA 720

PubMed Central

McCarthy, James S.; Marjason, Joanne; Elliott, Suzanne; Fahey, Paul; Bang, Gilles; Malkin, Elissa; Tierney, Eveline; Aked-Hurditch, Hayley; Adda, Christopher; Cross, Nadia; Richards, Jack S.; Fowkes, Freya J. I.; Boyle, Michelle J.; Long, Carole; Druilhe, Pierre; Beeson, James G.; Anders, Robin F.

2011-01-01

Background In a previous Phase 1/2b malaria vaccine trial testing the 3D7 isoform of the malaria vaccine candidate Merozoite surface protein 2 (MSP2), parasite densities in children were reduced by 62%. However, breakthrough parasitemias were disproportionately of the alternate dimorphic form of MSP2, the FC27 genotype. We therefore undertook a dose-escalating, double-blinded, placebo-controlled Phase 1 trial in healthy, malaria-naïve adults of MSP2-C1, a vaccine containing recombinant forms of the two families of msp2 alleles, 3D7 and FC27 (EcMSP2-3D7 and EcMSP2-FC27), formulated in equal amounts with Montanide® ISA 720 as a water-in-oil emulsion. Methodology/Principal Findings The trial was designed to include three dose cohorts (10, 40, and 80 µg), each with twelve subjects receiving the vaccine and three control subjects receiving Montanide® ISA 720 adjuvant emulsion alone, in a schedule of three doses at 12-week intervals. Due to unexpected local reactogenicity and concern regarding vaccine stability, the trial was terminated after the second immunisation of the cohort receiving the 40 µg dose; no subjects received the 80 µg dose. Immunization induced significant IgG responses to both isoforms of MSP2 in the 10 µg and 40 µg dose cohorts, with antibody levels by ELISA higher in the 40 µg cohort. Vaccine-induced antibodies recognised native protein by Western blots of parasite protein extracts and by immunofluorescence microscopy. Although the induced anti-MSP2 antibodies did not directly inhibit parasite growth in vitro, IgG from the majority of individuals tested caused significant antibody-dependent cellular inhibition (ADCI) of parasite growth. Conclusions/Significance As the majority of subjects vaccinated with MSP2-C1 developed an antibody responses to both forms of MSP2, and that these antibodies mediated ADCI provide further support for MSP2 as a malaria vaccine candidate. However, in view of the reactogenicity of this formulation, further clinical development of MSP2-C1 will require formulation of MSP2 in an alternative adjuvant. Trial Registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry 12607000552482 PMID:21949716

Genetic Diversity of Plasmodium falciparum Field Isolates in Central Sudan Inferred by PCR Genotyping of Merozoite Surface Protein 1 and 2.

PubMed

Hamid, Muzamil M Abdel; Mohammed, Sara B; El Hassan, Ibrahim M

2013-02-01

Characterization of Plasmodium falciparum diversity is commonly achieved by amplification of the polymorphic regions of the merozoite surface proteins 1 (MSP1) and 2 (MSP2) genes. The present study aimed to determine the allelic variants distribution of MSP1 and MSP2 and multiplicity of infection in P. falciparum field isolates from Kosti, central Sudan, an area characterized by seasonal malaria transmission. Total 121 samples (N = 121) were collected during a cross-sectional survey between March and April 2003. DNA was extracted and MSP1 and MSP2 polymorphic loci were genotyped. The total number of alleles identified in MSP1 block 2 was 11, while 16 alleles were observed in MSP2 block 3. In MSP1, RO33 was found to be the predominant allelic type, carried alone or in combination with MAD20 and K1 types, whereas FC27 family was the most prevalent in MSP2. Sixty two percent of isolates had multiple genotypes and the overall mean multiplicity of infection was 1.93 (CI 95% 1.66-2.20). Age correlated with parasite density (P = 0.017). In addition, a positive correlation was observed between parasite densities and the number of alleles (P = 0.022). Genetic diversity in P. falciparum field isolates in central Sudan was high and consisted of multiple clones.

Direct observation of gold nanoparticle assemblies with the porin MspA on mica.

PubMed

Basel, Matthew T; Dani, Raj Kumar; Kang, Myungshim; Pavlenok, Mikhail; Chikan, Viktor; Smith, Paul E; Niederweis, Michael; Bossmann, Stefan H

2009-02-24

The octameric porin MspA from Mycobacterium smegmatis is sufficiently stable to form a nonmembrane-supported stand-alone porin on mica surfaces. About 98% of all MspA octamers were found to stand upright on mica, with their periplasmic loop regions bound to the hydrophilic mica surface. Both, small (d = 3.7 nm) and large (d = 17 nm) gold nanoparticles bind to MspA, however, in different positions: small gold nanoparticles bind within the MspA pore, whereas the large gold nanoparticles bind to the upper region of MspA. These experiments demonstrate that gold nanoparticles can be positioned at different, well-defined distances from the underlying surface using the MspA pore as a template. These findings represent a significant step toward the use of electrically insulating stable proteins in combination with metal nanoparticles in nanodevices.

Levels of beta-microseminoprotein in blood and risk of prostate cancer in multiple populations.

PubMed

Haiman, Christopher A; Stram, Daniel O; Vickers, Andrew J; Wilkens, Lynne R; Braun, Katharina; Valtonen-André, Camilla; Peltola, Mari; Pettersson, Kim; Waters, Kevin M; Marchand, Loic Le; Kolonel, Laurence N; Henderson, Brian E; Lilja, Hans

2013-02-06

A common genetic variant (rs10993994) in the 5' region of the gene encoding β-microseminoprotein (MSP) is associated with circulating levels of MSP and prostate cancer risk. Whether MSP levels are predictive of prostate cancer risk has not been evaluated. We investigated the prospective relationship between circulating plasma levels of MSP and prostate cancer risk in a nested case-control study of 1503 case subjects and 1503 control subjects among black, Latino, Japanese, Native Hawaiian, and white men from the Multiethnic Cohort study. We also examined the ability of MSP to serve as a biomarker for discriminating prostate cancer case subjects from control subjects. All statistical tests are two-sided. In all racial and ethnic groups, men with lower MSP levels were at greater risk of developing prostate cancer (odds ratio = 1.02 per one unit decrease in MSP, P < .001 in the prostate-specific antigen [PSA]-adjusted analysis). Compared with men in the highest decile of MSP, the multivariable PSA-adjusted odds ratio was 3.64 (95% confidence interval = 2.41 to 5.49) for men in the lowest decile. The positive association with lower MSP levels was observed consistently across racial and ethnic populations, by disease stage and Gleason score, for men with both high and low levels of PSA and across all genotype classes of rs10993994. However, we did not detect strong evidence of MSP levels in improving prostate cancer prediction beyond that of PSA. Regardless of race and ethnicity or rs10993994 genotype, men with low blood levels of MSP have increased risk of prostate cancer.

Primary structural variation in anaplasma marginale Msp2 efficiently generates immune escape variants

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Antigenic variation allows microbial pathogens to evade immune clearance and establish persistent infection. Anaplasma marginale utilizes gene conversion of a repertoire of silent msp2 alleles into a single active expression site to encode unique Msp2 variants. As the genomic complement of msp2 alle...

Conception et calibration d'un sonoreacteur pour l'oxydation de la cellulose par le systeme TEMPO/NaOCl/NaBr

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paquin, Michel

Avec le contexte economique actuel dans le domaine des pates et papiers au Canada, l'industrie se doit de diversifier ses produits mis en marche. La fermeture de plus de 20 usines depuis 2005, une baisse du PIB de l'industrie de 1,4 milliard CAD entre 1999--2008, une baisse de la demande de 2,4 %, une diminution du prix de la pate de 20,9 % depuis juillet 2009. La delocalisation du secteur vers l'Asie et l'hemisphere sud sont autant de raisons pour laquelle l'industrie se doit d'etre a l'avant plan de nouvelle technologie a base de fibre de bois. Pour augmenter leur rentabilite, l'industrie se doit de diversifier ses produits dans d'autres secteurs que le simple fabricant de papier impression-ecriture. Sa diversification passe par l'elaboration de nouveaux papiers a valeur ajoutee (papier conducteur, papier bioactif, etc.), par l'utilisation de la biomasse forestiere pour la production d'energie, par l'utilisation de la biomasse forestiere pour l'elaboration d'une plateforme de chimie verte, par l'utilisation de la lignine pour le developpement de polymeres et par l'utilisation de la fibre cellulosique pour la fabrication de nanomateriaux. La fabrication de nanofibrille de cellulose peut devenir un des produits qui servira a diversifier la production des usines de pates et papiers. Les nanofibrilles de cellulose possedent des proprietes mecaniques et chimiques exceptionnelles. Les nanofibrilles de cellulose sont fabriquees a partir d'une oxydation selective de la pate kraft de feuillu avec le systeme TEMPO-NaOCl-NaBr. L'oxydation selective de l'alcool primaire en C6 du monomere de glucose sous forme de carboxylates engendre une modification chimique de la cellulose qui accroit l'hydrophilicite des fibrilles. Suite a cette oxydation, nous devons effectuer une desintegration mecanique de la fibre kraft de feuillu oxydee pour separer les fibrilles. Le processus d'oxydation de la fibre par le systeme TEMPO-NaOCl-NaBr et sa defibrillation par la suite engendre une grande consommation d'energie et de reactif qui rend le procede difficilement accessible au milieu industriel. L'utilisation des ultrasons lors de la reaction d'oxydation permet de reduire de 50% le temps de reaction et d'autant la consommation de produits chimiques. Actuellement le processus d'oxydation s'effectue en mode discontinu pour une quantite de 20 grammes de pate dans un reacteur en verre dans un bain a ultrason. L'objectif principal de ce travail est d'elaborer un sonoreacteur en mode semi-continu afin d'etre en mesure de transferer une reaction d'oxydation du mode discontinu en mode semi-continu. Le transfert de reaction sera effectue en realisant la calibration de l'activite acoustique des deux differents reacteurs, discontinu et semi-continu, par la methode de Weissler. La methode de Weissler quantifie le taux de production radicalaire en mesurant la formation d'iode moleculaire d'une solution aqueuse d'iodure de potassium sous ultrason. Suite a sa calibration, le sonoreacteur pilote (mode semi-continu) a demontre une augmentation de la production radicalaire de 683 % a 170 kHz en comparaison avec l'utilisation d'un bain a ultrason a la meme frequence. Lors de la reaction d'oxydation, la puissance optimale utilisee dans le bain a ultrason a 170 kHz est de 1000 W. La puissance utilisee selon les resultats de calibration obtenue dans le sonoreacteur pilote est de 125 W soit une diminution de l'energie appliquee de 87,5 %. Lors de la reaction d'oxydation, le taux de production des groupements carboxylates est de 2,6 mmol COOH kg/min dans le bain a ultrason et de 6,87 mmol COOH kg/min dans le sonoreacteur pilote soit une augmentation de 164% du taux de formation. Selon les resultats obtenus, l'utilisation d'un sonoreacteur en mode continu peut etre envisageable pour la reaction d'oxydation de la cellulose par le systeme TEMPO-NaOCl-NaBr en industrie au niveau industriel.

Direct Observation of Gold Nanoparticle Assemblies with the Porin MspA on Mica

PubMed Central

Basel, Matthew T.; Dani, Raj Kumar; Kang, Myungshim; Pavlenok, Mikhail; Chikan, Viktor; Smith, Paul E.; Niederweis, Michael

2009-01-01

The octameric porin MspA from Mycobacterium smegmatis is sufficiently stable to form a non-membrane-supported stand-alone porin on Mica surfaces. About 98% of all MspA octamers were found to stand upright on Mica, with their periplasmic loop regions bound to the hydrophilic Mica surface. Both, small (d = 3.7 nm) and large (d = 17 nm) gold nanoparticles bind to MspA, however in different positions: small gold nanoparticles bind within the MspA pore, whereas the large gold nanoparticles bind to the upper region of MspA. These experiments demonstrate that gold nanoparticles can be positioned at different, well-defined distances from the underlying surface using the MspA pore as a template. These findings represent a significant step towards the use of electrically insulating stable proteins in combination with metal nanoparticles in nanodevices. PMID:19236086

Marine spatial planning in Cyprus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hadjimitsis, Diofantos; Agapiou, Athos; Mettas, Christodoulos; Themistocleous, Kyriacos; Evagorou, Evagoras; Cuca, Branka; Papoutsa, Christiana; Nisantzi, Argyro; Mamouri, Rodanthi-Elisavet; Soulis, George; Xagoraris, Zafiris; Lysandrou, Vasiliki; Aliouris, Kyriacos; Ioannou, Nicolas; Pavlogeorgatos, Gerasimos

2015-06-01

Marine Spatial Planning (MSP), which is in concept similar to land-use planning, is a public process by which the relevant Member State's authorities analyse and organise human activities in marine areas to achieve ecological, economic and social objectives. MSP aims to promote sustainable growth of maritime economies, sustainable development of marine areas and sustainable use of marine resources. This paper highlights the importance of MSP and provides basic outcomes of the main European marine development. The already successful MSP plans can provide useful feedback and guidelines for other countries that are in the process of implementation of an integrated MSP, such as Cyprus. This paper presents part of the MSP project, of which 80% funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and 20% from national contribution. An overview of the project is presented, including data acquisition, methodology and preliminary results for the implementation of MSP in Cyprus.

Organelle positioning in muscles requires cooperation between two KASH proteins and microtubules

PubMed Central

Elhanany-Tamir, Hadas; Yu, Yanxun V.; Shnayder, Miri; Jain, Ankit; Welte, Michael

2012-01-01

Striated muscle fibers are characterized by their tightly organized cytoplasm. Here, we show that the Drosophila melanogaster KASH proteins Klarsicht (Klar) and MSP-300 cooperate in promoting even myonuclear spacing by mediating a tight link between a newly discovered MSP-300 nuclear ring and a polarized network of astral microtubules (aMTs). In either klar or msp-300ΔKASH, or in klar and msp-300 double heterozygous mutants, the MSP-300 nuclear ring and the aMTs retracted from the nuclear envelope, abrogating this even nuclear spacing. Anchoring of the myonuclei to the core acto-myosin fibrillar compartment was mediated exclusively by MSP-300. This protein was also essential for promoting even distribution of the mitochondria and ER within the muscle fiber. Larval locomotion is impaired in both msp-300 and klar mutants, and the klar mutants were rescued by muscle-specific expression of Klar. Thus, our results describe a novel mechanism of nuclear spacing in striated muscles controlled by the cooperative activity of MSP-300, Klar, and astral MTs, and demonstrate its physiological significance. PMID:22927463

A model of the complex between human {beta}-microseminoprotein and CRISP-3 based on NMR data

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

Ghasriani, Houman; Fernlund, Per; Udby, Lene

2009-01-09

{beta}-Microseminoprotein (MSP), a 10 kDa seminal plasma protein, forms a tight complex with cysteine-rich secretory protein 3 (CRISP-3) from granulocytes. The 3D structure of human MSP has been determined but there is as yet no 3D structure for CRISP-3. We have now studied the complex between human MSP and CRISP-3 with multidimensional NMR. {sup 15}N-HSQC spectra show substantial differences between free and complexed hMSP. Using several 3D-NMR spectra of triply labeled hMSP in complex with a recombinant N-terminal domain of CRISP-3, most of the backbone of hMSP could be assigned. The data show that only one side of hMSP, comprisingmore » {beta}-strands 1, 4, 5, and 8 are affected by the complex formation, indicating that {beta}-strands 1 and 8 form the main binding surface. Based on this we present a tentative structure for the hMSP-CRISP-3 complex using the known crystal structure of triflin as a model of CRISP-3.« less

DISCOURS QUI RÉSISTENT À L’OBJECTIVATION : QUE PEUT-ON EN TIRER POUR L’ÉVALUATION?

PubMed Central

Brousselle, Astrid

2013-01-01

Résumé L’évaluateur doit porter attention aux distorsions qu’il contribue à créer lorsqu’il utilise l’entrevue comme méthode de collecte de données. L’évaluation est un exercice politique qui, placé dans un contexte politique, peut favoriser l’émergence de discours de résistance à l’objectivation. À partir des entrevues que nous avons effectuées lors de l’évaluation du processus d’implantation de l’initiative ONUSIDA d’accès aux médicaments au Chili, nous illustrons différentes tactiques que les acteurs utilisent et qui peuvent soit attirer la sympathie de l’évaluateur, soit faire obstacle à son besoin d’information. Nous présentons une méthode d’analyse que l’évaluateur peut utiliser pour redonner du sens aux discours de résistance. PMID:23997421

Quatrième conférence consensuelle sur le diagnostic et le traitement de la démence

PubMed Central

Moore, Ainsley; Patterson, Christopher; Lee, Linda; Vedel, Isabelle; Bergman, Howard

2014-01-01

Résumé Objectif Revoir les stratégies diagnostiques de la maladie d’Alzheimer, actualiser les recommandations concernant le traitement des symptômes de démence et proposer une approche thérapeutique à la démence d’apparition précoce et d’évolution rapide. Composition du comité Des spécialistes et des délégués de diverses régions du Canada et représentant diverses disciplines pertinentes ont discuté et se sont mis d’accord sur les révisions à apporter aux lignes directrices de 2006. Méthodologie On a eu recours au système GRADE (grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation) pour évaluer le consensus concernant les recommandations, lequel était défini comme suit : lorsque 80 % ou plus des participants ont voté en faveur de la recommandation. La cote des données probantes est rapportée lorsque cela est possible. Rapport important pour les médecins de famille, malgré les progrès effectués dans les domaines des biomarqueurs liquidiens et de la neuro-imagerie, le diagnostic de démence au Canada demeure fondamentalement clinique. De nouveaux critères cliniques essentiels de diagnostic de la maladie d’Alzheimer en reconnaissent dorénavant les formes moins fréquentes et non amnestiques. La démence précoce, une affection rare, mais importante, devrait inciter les médecins à aiguiller les patients vers un spécialiste ayant accès à des conseillers en génétique. La démence d’évolution rapide, mal définie dans la littérature, faciliterait le dépistage de cette affection rare, mais importante. Les inhibiteurs de la cholinestérase sont maintenant indiqués pour le traitement d’affections autres que la maladie d’Alzheimer. Des lignes directrices concernant l’arrêt du traitement, lesquelles n’existaient pas auparavant, sont également apparues. De nouvelles données probantes sur le recours à la mémantine, aux antidépresseurs et à d’autres agents psychotropes dans le traitement de la démence sont aussi présentées. Conclusion Plusieurs recommandations de la Quatrième conférence consensuelle sur le diagnostic et le traitement de la démence intéresseront les médecins de famille. Pour assurer l’utilité des lignes directrices, les médecins de famille devraient participer à toutes les étapes du processus de formulation continu, y compris à la sélection des sujets.

A Malaria Vaccine Based on the Polymorphic Block 2 Region of MSP-1 that Elicits a Broad Serotype-Spanning Immune Response

PubMed Central

Cowan, Graeme J. M.; Creasey, Alison M.; Dhanasarnsombut, Kelwalin; Thomas, Alan W.; Remarque, Edmond J.; Cavanagh, David R.

2011-01-01

Polymorphic parasite antigens are known targets of protective immunity to malaria, but this antigenic variation poses challenges to vaccine development. A synthetic MSP-1 Block 2 construct, based on all polymorphic variants found in natural Plasmodium falciparum isolates has been designed, combined with the relatively conserved Block 1 sequence of MSP-1 and expressed in E.coli. The MSP-1 Hybrid antigen has been produced with high yield by fed-batch fermentation and purified without the aid of affinity tags resulting in a pure and extremely thermostable antigen preparation. MSP-1 hybrid is immunogenic in experimental animals using adjuvants suitable for human use, eliciting antibodies against epitopes from all three Block 2 serotypes. Human serum antibodies from Africans naturally exposed to malaria reacted to the MSP-1 hybrid as strongly as, or better than the same serum reactivities to individual MSP-1 Block 2 antigens, and these antibody responses showed clear associations with reduced incidence of malaria episodes. The MSP-1 hybrid is designed to induce a protective antibody response to the highly polymorphic Block 2 region of MSP-1, enhancing the repertoire of MSP-1 Block 2 antibody responses found among immune and semi-immune individuals in malaria endemic areas. The target population for such a vaccine is young children and vulnerable adults, to accelerate the acquisition of a full range of malaria protective antibodies against this polymorphic parasite antigen. PMID:22073118

Antibody specificities of children living in a malaria endemic area to inhibitory and blocking epitopes on MSP-1 19 of Plasmodium falciparum.

PubMed

Omosun, Y O; Adoro, S; Anumudu, C I; Odaibo, A B; Uthiapibull, C; Holder, A A; Nwagwu, M; Nwuba, R I

2009-03-01

Merozoite surface protein-1(19) (MSP-1(19)) specific antibodies which include processing inhibitory, blocking and neutral antibodies have been identified in individuals exposed to Plasmodium falciparum. Here we intend to look at the effect of single and multiple amino acid substitutions of MSP-1(19) on the recognition by polyclonal antibodies from children living in Igbo-Ora, Nigeria. This would provide us with information on the possibility of eliciting mainly processing inhibitory antibodies with a recombinant MSP-1(19) vaccine. Blood was collected from children in the rainy season and binding of anti-MSP-1(19) antibodies to modified mutants of MSP-1(19) was analysed by ELISA. The MSP-1(19) mutant proteins with single substitutions at positions 22 (Leu-->Arg), 43 (Glu-->Leu) and 53 (Asn-->Arg) and the MSP-1(19) mutant protein with multiple substitutions at positions 27+31+34+43 (Glu-->Tyr, Leu-->Arg, Tyr-->Ser, Glu-->Leu); which had inhibitory epitopes; had the highest recognition. Children recognised both sets of mutants with different age groups having different recognition levels. The percentage of malaria positive individuals (32-80%) with antibodies that bound to the mutants MSP-1(19) containing epitopes that recognise only processing inhibitory and not blocking antibodies, were significantly different from those with antibodies that did not bind to these mutants (21-28%). The amino acid substitutions that abolished the binding of blocking antibodies without affecting the binding of inhibitory antibodies are of particular interest in the design of MSP-1(19) based malaria vaccines. Although these MSP-1(19) mutants have not been found in natural population, their recognition by polyclonal antibodies from humans naturally infected with malaria is very promising for the future use of MSP-1(19) mutants in the design of a malaria vaccine.

Macrophage-stimulating protein attenuates gentamicin-induced inflammation and apoptosis in human renal proximal tubular epithelial cells

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

Lee, Ko Eun; Kim, Eun Young; Kim, Chang Seong

2013-05-10

Highlights: •MSP/RON system is activated in rat kidney damaged by gentamicin. •MSP inhibits GM-induced cellular apoptosis and inflammation in HK-2 cells. •MSP attenuates GM-induced activation of MAPKs and NF-κB pathways in HK-2 cells. -- Abstract: The present study aimed to investigate whether macrophage-stimulating protein (MSP) treatment attenuates renal apoptosis and inflammation in gentamicin (GM)-induced tubule injury and its underlying molecular mechanisms. To examine changes in MSP and its receptor, recepteur d’origine nantais (RON) in GM-induced nephropathy, rats were injected with GM for 7 days. Human renal proximal tubular epithelial (HK-2) cells were incubated with GM for 24 h in themore » presence of different concentrations of MSP and cell viability was measured by MTT assay. Apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry of cells stained with fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated annexin V protein and propidium iodide. Expression of Bcl-2, Bax, caspase-3, cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), IκB-α, and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) was analyzed by semiquantitative immunoblotting. MSP and RON expression was significantly greater in GM-treated rats, than in untreated controls. GM-treatment reduced HK-2 cell viability, an effect that was counteracted by MSP. Flow cytometry and DAPI staining revealed GM-induced apoptosis was prevented by MSP. GM reduced expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and induced expression of Bax and cleaved caspase 3; these effects and GM-induced expression of COX-2 and iNOS were also attenuated by MSP. GM caused MSP-reversible induction of phospho-ERK, phospho-JNK, and phospho-p38. GM induced NF-κB activation and degradation of IκB-α; the increase in nuclear NF-κB was blocked by inhibitors of ERK, JNK, p-38, or MSP pretreatment. These findings suggest that MSP attenuates GM-induced inflammation and apoptosis by inhibition of the MAPKs/NF-κB signaling pathways.« less

Genetic Diversity of Plasmodium falciparum Populations in Malaria Declining Areas of Sabah, East Malaysia

PubMed Central

Mohd Abd Razak, Mohd Ridzuan; Sastu, Umi Rubiah; Norahmad, Nor Azrina; Abdul-Karim, Abass; Muhammad, Amirrudin; Muniandy, Prem Kumar; Jelip, Jenarun; Rundi, Christina; Imwong, Mallika; Mudin, Rose Nani; Abdullah, Noor Rain

2016-01-01

Malaysia has a national goal to eliminate malaria by 2020. Understanding the genetic diversity of malaria parasites in residual transmission foci can provide invaluable information which may inform the intervention strategies used to reach elimination targets. This study was conducted to determine the genetic diversity level of P. falciparum isolates in malaria residual foci areas of Sabah. Malaria active case detection was conducted in Kalabakan and Kota Marudu. All individuals in the study sites were screened for malaria infection by rapid diagnostic test. Blood from P. falciparum-infected individuals were collected on filter paper prior to DNA extraction. Genotyping was performed using merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP-1), merozoite surface protein-2 (MSP-2), glutamate rich protein (GLURP) and 10 neutral microsatellite loci markers. The size of alleles, multiplicity of infection (MOI), mean number of alleles (Na), expected heterozygosity (He), linkage disequilibrium (LD) and genetic differentiation (FST) were determined. In Kalabakan, the MSP-1 and MSP-2 alleles were predominantly K1 and FC27 family types, respectively. The GLURP genotype VI (751–800 bp) was predominant. The MOI for MSP-1 and MSP-2 were 1.65 and 1.20, respectively. The Na per microsatellite locus was 1.70. The He values for MSP-1, MSP-2, GLURP and neutral microsatellites were 0.17, 0.37, 0.70 and 0.33, respectively. In Kota Marudu, the MSP-1 and MSP-2 alleles were predominantly MAD20 and 3D7 family types, respectively. The GLURP genotype IV (651–700 bp) was predominant. The MOI for both MSP-1 and MSP-2 was 1.05. The Na per microsatellite locus was 3.60. The He values for MSP-1, MSP-2, GLURP and neutral microsatellites were 0.24, 0.25, 0.69 and 0.30, respectively. A significant LD was observed in Kalabakan (0.495, p<0.01) and Kota Marudu P. falciparum populations (0.601, p<0.01). High genetic differentiation between Kalabakan and Kota Marudu P. falciparum populations was observed (FST = 0.532). The genetic data from the present study highlighted the limited diversity and contrasting genetic pattern of P. falciparum populations in the malaria declining areas of Sabah. PMID:27023787

Legitimizing Security in the Ivory Tower: Canadian University Corporate Security Services' Public Quest for Legitimacy.

PubMed

Wilkinson, Blair

2016-05-01

This article examines how university corporate security (UCS) services engage in legitimation work in their attempts to make their university communities (i.e., faculty, staff, students) and political masters (i.e., university administrators, boards of governors, senators) believe that they are honest, trustworthy, and caring and have authority that should be deferred to. This is accomplished through the analysis of interview and observational data collected as part of a research project exploring UCS services at five Canadian universities and an examination of how UCS services at 14 Canadian universities communicate using the social media service Twitter. These UCS services were found to primarily use Twitter for the purposes of soliciting or requesting information and for networking. In communicating through Twitter, UCS services engage in public legitimation work in which they make claims about and attempt to demonstrate their expertise, authority, and accountability. This article argues that both UCS services' particular legitimacy problem (i.e., their possession of both private and public attributes) and the interactive nature of public legitimation work create tensions that may serve to disrupt UCS services' ability to attain legitimacy. Cet article examine la manière dont les services de sécurité d'entreprise à l'université (SEU) s'engagent à légitimer leurs tentatives de persuader leurs communautés universitaires (c'est-à-dire le corps professoral, le personnel et les étudiants) ainsi que la haute administration (c'est-à-dire les administrateurs de l'université, le conseil des gouverneurs et les sénateurs) qu'ils sont honnêtes, attentifs, dignes de confiance, et qu'ils possèdent un niveau d'autorité auquel quiconque devrait se référer. Ceci sera accompli en analysant un corpus d'entrevues et d'observations dans le cadre d'un projet de recherche examinant les services de type SEU dans cinq universités canadiennes, ainsi qu'une étude sur la manière dont les services de SEU dans quatorze universités canadiennes gèrent leurs communications sur le réseau de médias sociaux Twitter. Il a été établi que ces services de SEU utilisent principalement Twitter pour la sollicitation ou la demande d'informations, et pour le réseautage. En communiquant par Twitter, les services de SEU s'engagent dans un processus de légitimation par lequel ils revendiquent et tentent de démontrer leur expertise, autorité, transparence et responsabilité. Cet article propose l'argument suivant: la question de la légitimité particulière des services de SEU (c'est-à-dire leur possession d'attributs à la fois privés et publics) combinée avec la nature interactive du processus de légitimation publique crée des tensions qui peuvent en fin de compte perturber la capacité des services de SEU à atteindre réellement cette légitimité. © 2016 Canadian Sociological Association/La Société canadienne de sociologie.

C-terminal polymorphism of Plasmodium falciparium merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP-1) from Tak Province, Thailand.

PubMed

Viputtigul, Kwanjai; Tungpukdee, Noppadon; Ruangareerate, Toon; Luplertlop, Natthanej; Wilairatana, Polrat; Gaywee, Jariyanart; Krudsood, Srivicha

2013-01-01

This study was undertaken to ascertain the extent of polymorphism in the C-terminal region of Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein (MSP-1) from 119 malaria patients in Tak Province on the western border of Thailand, who were admitted to the Bangkok Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. P. falciparum infection was confirmed by microscopic examination of peripheral blood smears. Clinical manifestations were categorized into 2 groups: uncomplicated (94 cases) and complicated/severe (25 cases). A 1,040 basepair fragment of P. falciparum MSP-1 gene was compared with MSP-1 of reference strains retrieved from GenBank. The consensus sequences of MSP-1 block 16 showed it belonged to MAD20 genotype, which is the major allele of falciparum malaria from the western border of Thailand. MSP-1 block 16 amino acid fragment could be separated into 2 groups: similar and dissimilar to reference sequence. Four variations in MSP-1 block 16 were -1494K, D1510G, D1556N, and K1696I. MSP-1 block 16 diversity is not significantly associated with clinical manifestation although MAD 20 genotype is the predominant genotype in this area. The genetic data of MSP1 gene of faciparum malaria isolated from western Thai border contribute to the existing genetic database of Thai P. falciparum strain.

Total immunoglobulin G and IgG1 subclass levels specific for the MSP-1(19) of Plasmodium falciparum are different in individuals with either processing-inhibitory, blocking or neutral antibodies.

PubMed

Omosun, Y O; Adoro, S; Anumudu, C I; Odaibo, A; Holder, A A; Nwagwu, M; Nwuba, R I

2010-06-01

Some MSP-1(19) specific antibodies that inhibit merozoite invasion also inhibit the secondary processing of MSP-1. However the binding of these inhibitory antibodies can be blocked by another group of antibodies, called blocking antibodies, which recognize adjacent or overlapping epitopes, but themselves have no effect on either MSP-1 processing or merozoite invasion. These antibodies have been reported to be present in individuals living in a malaria endemic area. Blood samples were obtained from children shown to have processing inhibitory, blocking, and neutral antibodies in a previous study. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), was used to determine the total IgG, IgM and IgG subtypes. There was a significant difference in anti-MSP-1(19) IgG, while there was no significant difference in the anti-MSP-1(19) IgM. Only anti MSP-1(19) IgG1, amongst the IgG subtypes was significantly different between the groups. This study shows that antibodies against MSP-1 are different not only in specificity and function but also in the amount of total IgG and IgG subtype produced.

Quantitation of 4-Methyl-4-sulfanylpentan-2-one (4MSP) in Hops by a Stable Isotope Dilution Assay in Combination with GC×GC-TOFMS: Method Development and Application To Study the Influence of Variety, Provenance, Harvest Year, and Processing on 4MSP Concentrations.

PubMed

Reglitz, Klaas; Steinhaus, Martin

2017-03-22

A stable isotope dilution assay was developed for quantitation of 4-methyl-4-sulfanylpentan-2-one (4MSP) in hops. The approach included the use of 4-( 13 C)methyl-4-sulfanyl(1,3,5- 13 C 3 )pentan-2-one as internal standard, selective isolation of hop thiols by mercurated agarose, and GC×GC-TOFMS analysis. Application of the method to 53 different hop samples revealed 4MSP concentrations between <1 and 114 μg/kg. Notably high concentrations were associated with United States varieties such as Citra, Eureka, Simcoe, and Apollo, whereas 4MSP was absent from traditional German and English varieties. Further experiments showed that besides the variety, also harvest year and storage vitally influenced 4MSP concentrations, whereas the impact of provenance was less pronounced. Hop processing such as drying and pelletizing had only a minor impact on 4MSP concentrations. Like the majority of other hop volatiles, 4MSP is predominantly located in the lupulin glands.

Evaluation of Recombinant Plasmodium knowlesi Merozoite Surface Protein-133 for Detection of Human Malaria

PubMed Central

Cheong, Fei Wen; Lau, Yee Ling; Fong, Mun Yik; Mahmud, Rohela

2013-01-01

Plasmodium knowlesi is now known as the fifth Plasmodium species that can cause human malaria. The Plasmodium merozoite surface protein (MSP) has been reported to be potential target for vaccination and diagnosis of malaria. MSP-133 has been shown to be immunogenic and its T cell epitopes could mediate cellular immune protection. However, limited studies have focused on P. knowlesi MSP-133. In this study, an approximately 28-kDa recombinant P. knowlesi MSP-133 (pkMSP-133) was expressed by using an Escherichia coli system. The purified pkMSP-133 reacted with serum samples of patients infected with P. knowlesi (31 of 31, 100%) and non-P. knowlesi malaria (27 of 28, 96.43%) by Western blotting. The pkMSP-133 also reacted with P. knowlesi (25 of 31, 80.65%) and non-P. knowlesi malaria sera (20 of 28, 71.43%) in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Most of the non-malarial infection (49 of 52 in by Western blotting and 46 of 52 in the ELISA) and healthy donor serum samples (65 of 65 by Western blotting and ELISA) did not react with recombinant pkMSP-133. PMID:23509118

Characterization of nanostructured surfaces generated by reconstitution of the porin MspA from Mycobacterium smegmatis.

PubMed

Wörner, Michael; Lioubashevski, Oleg; Basel, Matthew T; Niebler, Sandra; Gogritchiani, Eliso; Egner, Nicole; Heinz, Christian; Hoferer, Jürgen; Cipolloni, Michela; Janik, Katharine; Katz, Evgeny; Braun, Andre M; Willner, Itamar; Niederweis, Michael; Bossmann, Stefan H

2007-06-01

Nanostructures with long-term stability at the surface of gold electrodes are generated by reconstituting the porin MspA from Mycobacterium smegmatis into a specially designed monolayer of long-chain lipid surfactant on gold. Tailored surface coverage of gold electrodes with long-chain surfactants is achieved by electrochemically assisted deposition of organic thiosulfates (Bunte salts). The subsequent reconstitution of the octameric-pore MspA is guided by its extraordinary self-assembling properties. Importantly, electrochemical reduction of copper(II) yields copper nanoparticles within the MspA nanopores. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, reflection electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) show that: 1) the MspA pores within the self-assembled monolayer (SAM) are monodisperse and electrochemically active, 2) MspA reconstitutes in SAMs and with a 10-nm thickness, 3) AFM is a suitable method to detect pores within SAMs, and 4) the electrochemical reduction of Cu2+ to Cu0 under overpotential conditions starts within the MspA pores.

Developpement D'un Modele Climatique Regional: Fizr Simulation des Conditions de Janvier de la Cote Ouest Nord Americaine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goyette, Stephane

1995-11-01

Le sujet de cette these concerne la modelisation numerique du climat regional. L'objectif principal de l'exercice est de developper un modele climatique regional ayant les capacites de simuler des phenomenes de meso-echelle spatiale. Notre domaine d'etude se situe sur la Cote Ouest nord americaine. Ce dernier a retenu notre attention a cause de la complexite du relief et de son controle sur le climat. Les raisons qui motivent cette etude sont multiples: d'une part, nous ne pouvons pas augmenter, en pratique, la faible resolution spatiale des modeles de la circulation generale de l'atmosphere (MCG) sans augmenter a outrance les couts d'integration et, d'autre part, la gestion de l'environnement exige de plus en plus de donnees climatiques regionales determinees avec une meilleure resolution spatiale. Jusqu'alors, les MCG constituaient les modeles les plus estimes pour leurs aptitudes a simuler le climat ainsi que les changements climatiques mondiaux. Toutefois, les phenomenes climatiques de fine echelle echappent encore aux MCG a cause de leur faible resolution spatiale. De plus, les repercussions socio-economiques des modifications possibles des climats sont etroitement liees a des phenomenes imperceptibles par les MCG actuels. Afin de circonvenir certains problemes inherents a la resolution, une approche pratique vise a prendre un domaine spatial limite d'un MCG et a y imbriquer un autre modele numerique possedant, lui, un maillage de haute resolution spatiale. Ce processus d'imbrication implique alors une nouvelle simulation numerique. Cette "retro-simulation" est guidee dans le domaine restreint a partir de pieces d'informations fournies par le MCG et forcee par des mecanismes pris en charge uniquement par le modele imbrique. Ainsi, afin de raffiner la precision spatiale des previsions climatiques de grande echelle, nous developpons ici un modele numerique appele FIZR, permettant d'obtenir de l'information climatique regionale valide a la fine echelle spatiale. Cette nouvelle gamme de modeles-interpolateurs imbriques qualifies d'"intelligents" fait partie de la famille des modeles dits "pilotes". L'hypothese directrice de notre etude est fondee sur la supposition que le climat de fine echelle est souvent gouverne par des forcages provenant de la surface plutot que par des transports atmospheriques de grande echelle spatiale. La technique que nous proposons vise donc a guider FIZR par la Dynamique echantillonnee d'un MCG et de la forcer par la Physique du MCG ainsi que par un forcage orographique de meso-echelle, en chacun des noeuds de la grille fine de calculs. Afin de valider la robustesse et la justesse de notre modele climatique regional, nous avons choisi la region de la Cote Ouest du continent nord americain. Elle est notamment caracterisee par une distribution geographique des precipitations et des temperatures fortement influencee par le relief sous-jacent. Les resultats d'une simulation d'un mois de janvier avec FIZR demontrent que nous pouvons simuler des champs de precipitations et de temperatures au niveau de l'abri beaucoup plus pres des observations climatiques comparativement a ceux simules a partir d'un MCG. Ces performances sont manifestement attribuees au forcage orographique de meso-echelle de meme qu'aux caracteristiques de surface determinees a fine echelle. Un modele similaire a FIZR peut, en principe, etre implante sur l'importe quel MCG, donc, tout organisme de recherche implique en modelisation numerique mondiale de grande echelle pourra se doter d'un el outil de regionalisation.

Natural antibody response to Plasmodium falciparum merozoite antigens MSP5, MSP9 and EBA175 is associated to clinical protection in the Brazilian Amazon

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Antibodies have an essential role in the acquired immune response against blood stage P. falciparum infection. Although several antigens have been identified as important antibody targets, it is still elusive which antigens have to be recognized for clinical protection. Herein, we analyzed antibodies from plasmas from symptomatic or asymptomatic individuals living in the same geographic area in the Western Amazon, measuring their recognition of multiple merozoite antigens. Methods Specific fragments of genes encoding merozoite proteins AMA1 and members of MSP and EBL families from circulating P. falciparum field isolates present in asymptomatic and symptomatic patients were amplified by PCR. After cloning and expression of different versions of the antigens as recombinant GST-fusion peptides, we tested the reactivity of patients’ plasmas by ELISA and the presence of IgG subclasses in the most reactive plasmas. Results 11 out of 24 recombinant antigens were recognized by plasmas from either symptomatic or asymptomatic infections. Antibodies to MSP9 (X2DF=1 = 9.26/p = 0.0047) and MSP5 (X2DF=1 = 8.29/p = 0.0069) were more prevalent in asymptomatic individuals whereas the opposite was observed for MSP1 block 2-MAD20 (X2DF=1 = 6.41/p = 0.0206, Fisher’s exact test). Plasmas from asymptomatic individuals reacted more intensely against MSP4 (U = 210.5, p < 0.03), MSP5 (U = 212, p < 0.004), MSP9 (U = 189.5, p < 0.002) and EBA175 (U = 197, p < 0.014, Mann-Whitney’s U test). IgG1 and IgG3 were predominant for all antigens, but some patients also presented with IgG2 and IgG4. The recognition of MSP5 (OR = 0.112, IC95% = 0.021-0.585) and MSP9 (OR = 0.125, IC95% = 0.030-0.529, cross tab analysis) predicted 8.9 and 8 times less chances, respectively, to present symptoms. Higher antibody levels against MSP5 and EBA175 were associated by odds ratios of 9.4 (IC95% = 1.29-69.25) and 5.7 (IC95% = 1.12-29.62, logistic regression), respectively, with an asymptomatic status. Conclusions Merozoite antigens were targets of cytophilic antibodies and antibodies against MSP5, MSP9 and EBA175 were independently associated with decreased symptoms. PMID:24373342

La création et l’implantation réussie d’un outil de remédiation en résidence de médecine familiale

PubMed Central

Sanche, Gilbert; Béland, Normand; Audétat, Marie-Claude

2011-01-01

Résumé Problème à l’étude Comme dans la majorité des programmes de formation médicale post-graduée, environ 10% des résidents du programme de résidence en médecine familiale de l’Université de Montréal éprouvent des difficultés considérables dans la construction de leurs compétences. Objectif du programme Afin de mieux soutenir les enseignants du programme dans le diagnostic de ces difficultés ainsi que dans la conception, la planification et le suivi d’une stratégie de remédiation, le Comité d’évaluation du programme de résidence a conçu un outil constitué d’un plan type de remédiation et d’un guide de rédaction de ce plan. Description du programme L’outil de remédiation est constitué de 2 documents. Le premier est un plan type de remédiation constitué d’une partie contractuelle suivie de 4 sections: diagnostic pédagogique, intentions de remédiation, moyens de remédiation et évaluation de la remédiation, avec un bilan intermédiaire et un bilan final. Le deuxième est un guide de rédaction et de systématisation d’un plan de remédiation. Conclusion L’accueil favorable qu’a reçu l’outil et l’utilisation qui en a été faite durant l’année de son implantation témoignent du succès des processus que nous avions adoptés. L’appui de la faculté, le mécanisme de «co-construction» de l’outil, de même que la formation et le soutien aux utilisateurs sont des facteurs qui expliquent ce succès. Un projet de recherche est en route pour documenter l’impact qu’aura l’utilisation de cet outil dans notre programme de résidence. PMID:22170208

Prevalence and factors associated with neck, shoulder and low back pains among medical students in a Malaysian Medical College.

PubMed

Alshagga, Mustafa Ahmed; Nimer, Amal R; Yan, Looi Pui; Ibrahim, Ibrahim Abdel Aziz; Al-Ghamdi, Saeed S; Radman Al-Dubai, Sami Abdo

2013-07-01

The main purpose of the study was to assess the prevalence, body distributions and factors associated with musculoskeletal pain (MSP) among medical students in a private Malaysian medical college. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 232 medical students in a private medical college using an online questionnaire. The questionnaire was a modified Standardized Nordic Questionnaire focused on neck, shoulder and low back pain in the past week and the past year. Two hundred and thirty two medical students responded to the questionnaire out of 642. Mean age was 20.7 ± 2.1 years. The majority were female (62.9%), Malay (80.6%) and in the preclinical years (72%). One hundred and six (45.7%) of all students had at least one site of MSP in the past week and 151 (65.1%) had at least one site of MSP in the past year. MSP in the past week was associated significantly with the academic year, (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.15-3.67, P = 0.015), history of trauma (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.2-5.3, P = 0.011), family history of MSP (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.1-3.9, P = 0.023) and Body Mass Index (BMI) (P = 0.028). MSP in the past year was significantly associated with computer use (P = 0.027), daily hours of computer use (median ± IQR (5.0 ±3.0), history of trauma (OR 7.5, 95% CI 2.24-2.56, P < 0.01) and family history of MSP (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.31-4.90, P = 0.006). On multivariate analysis, factors associated with MSP during the past week were a family history of MSP (p = 0.029) and BMI (p = 0.03). Factors associated with MSP during the past year were being in clinical years (p = 0.002, computer use (p = 0.038), and a history of trauma (p = 0.030). MSP among medical students was relatively high, thus, further clinical assessment is needed in depth study of ergonomics. The study results indicate that medical school authorities should take measures to prevent MSP due to factors related to medical school. Students should make aware of importance of weight reduction to reduce MSP.

Cellular and humoral immune responses against the Plasmodium vivax MSP-119 malaria vaccine candidate in individuals living in an endemic area in north-eastern Amazon region of Brazil

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Plasmodium vivax merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP-1) is an antigen considered to be one of the leading malaria vaccine candidates. PvMSP-1 is highly immunogenic and evidences suggest that it is target for protective immunity against asexual blood stages of malaria parasites. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the acquired cellular and antibody immune responses against PvMSP-1 in individuals naturally exposed to malaria infections in a malaria-endemic area in the north-eastern Amazon region of Brazil. Methods The study was carried out in Paragominas, Pará State, in the Brazilian Amazon. Blood samples were collected from 35 individuals with uncomplicated malaria. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated and the cellular proliferation and activation was analysed in presence of 19 kDa fragment of MSP-1 (PvMSP-119) and Plasmodium falciparum PSS1 crude antigen. Antibodies IgE, IgM, IgG and IgG subclass and the levels of TNF, IFN-γ and IL-10 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results The prevalence of activated CD4+ was greater than CD8+ T cells, in both ex-vivo and in 96 h culture in presence of PvMSP-119 and PSS1 antigen. A low proliferative response against PvMSP-119 and PSS1 crude antigen after 96 h culture was observed. High plasmatic levels of IFN-γ and IL-10 as well as lower TNF levels were also detected in malaria patients. However, in the 96 h supernatant culture, the dynamics of cytokine responses differed from those depicted on plasma assays; in presence of PvMSP-119 stimulus, higher levels of TNF were noted in supernatant 96 h culture of malaria patient’s cells while low levels of IFN-γ and IL-10 were verified. High frequency of malaria patients presenting antibodies against PvMSP-119 was evidenced, regardless class or IgG subclass.PvMSP-119-induced antibodies were predominantly on non-cytophilic subclasses. Conclusions The results presented here shows that PvMSP-119 was able to induce a high cellular activation, leading to production of TNF and emphasizes the high immunogenicity of PvMSP-119 in naturally exposed individuals and, therefore, its potential as a malaria vaccine candidate. PMID:24041406

Physical workload, leisure-time physical activity, obesity and smoking as predictors of multisite musculoskeletal pain. A 2-year prospective study of kitchen workers.

PubMed

Haukka, Eija; Ojajärvi, Anneli; Takala, Esa-Pekka; Viikari-Juntura, Eira; Leino-Arjas, Päivi

2012-07-01

The aim of this prospective study was to examine the role of physical workload, leisure-time physical activity, obesity and smoking in predicting the occurrence and course of multisite musculoskeletal pain (MSP). Data on physical and psychosocial workload, lifestyle factors and MSP were based on questionnaire surveys of 385 Finnish female kitchen workers. MSP (defined as pain at three or more of seven sites) during the past 3 months was measured repeatedly at 3-month intervals over 2 years. Four different patterns (trajectories) in the course of MSP were identified. The authors analysed whether the determinants at baseline predicted the occurrence of MSP (1) at the 2-year follow-up and (2) over the total of nine measurements during the 2 years by exploiting the MSP trajectories. Logistic regression was used. High physical workload at baseline was an independent predictor of MSP at the 2-year follow-up (OR 3.8, 95% CI 1.7 to 8.5) in a model allowing for age, psychosocial factors at work and lifestyle. High physical workload (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.0 to 4.0) and moderate (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.2 to 4.9) or low (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.1 to 4.7) physical activity predicted persistent MSP. Obesity (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.0 to 7.8) predicted an increased, and not being obese (OR 3.7, 95% CI 1.1 to 12.7) a decreased, prevalence of MSP in models similarly including all covariates. Smoking had no effect. The results emphasise the importance of high physical workload, low to moderate physical activity and obesity as potential modifiable risk factors for the occurrence and course of MSP over time.

Host-Induced Silencing of Two Pharyngeal Gland Genes Conferred Transcriptional Alteration of Cell Wall-Modifying Enzymes of Meloidogyne incognita vis-à-vis Perturbed Nematode Infectivity in Eggplant.

PubMed

Shivakumara, Tagginahalli N; Chaudhary, Sonam; Kamaraju, Divya; Dutta, Tushar K; Papolu, Pradeep K; Banakar, Prakash; Sreevathsa, Rohini; Singh, Bhupinder; Manjaiah, K M; Rao, Uma

2017-01-01

The complex parasitic strategy of Meloidogyne incognita appears to involve simultaneous expression of its pharyngeal gland-specific effector genes in order to colonize the host plants. Research reports related to effector crosstalk in phytonematodes for successful parasitism of the host tissue is yet underexplored. In view of this, we have used in planta effector screening approach to understand the possible interaction of pioneer genes ( msp-18 and msp-20 , putatively involved in late and early stage of M. incognita parasitism, respectively) with other unrelated effectors such as cell-wall modifying enzymes (CWMEs) in M. incognita . Host-induced gene silencing (HIGS) strategy was used to generate the transgenic eggplants expressing msp-18 and msp-20 , independently. Putative transformants were characterized via qRT-PCR and Southern hybridization assay. SiRNAs specific to msp-18 and msp - 20 were also detected in the transformants via Northern hybridization assay. Transgenic expression of the RNAi constructs of msp-18 and msp-20 genes resulted in 43.64-69.68% and 41.74-67.30% reduction in M. incognita multiplication encompassing 6 and 10 events, respectively. Additionally, transcriptional oscillation of CWMEs documented in the penetrating and developing nematodes suggested the possible interaction among CWMEs and pioneer genes. The rapid assimilation of plant-derived carbon by invading nematodes was also demonstrated using 14 C isotope probing approach. Our data suggests that HIGS of msp-18 and msp-20 , improves nematode resistance in eggplant by affecting the steady-state transcription level of CWME genes in invading nematodes, and safeguard the plant against nematode invasion at very early stage because nematodes may become the recipient of bioactive RNA species during the process of penetration into the plant root.

Msp40 effector of root-knot nematode manipulates plant immunity to facilitate parasitism.

PubMed

Niu, Junhai; Liu, Pei; Liu, Qian; Chen, Changlong; Guo, Quanxin; Yin, Junmei; Yang, Guangsui; Jian, Heng

2016-01-22

Root-knot nematodes (RKNs) are obligate biotrophic parasites that invade plant roots and engage in prolonged and intimate relationships with their hosts. Nematode secretions, some of which have immunosuppressing activity, play essential roles in successful parasitism; however, their mechanisms of action remain largely unknown. Here, we show that the RKN-specific gene MiMsp40, cloned from Meloidogyne incognita, is expressed exclusively in subventral oesophageal gland cells and is strongly upregulated during early parasitic stages. Arabidopsis plants overexpressing MiMsp40 were more susceptible to nematode infection than were wild type plants. Conversely, the host-derived MiMsp40 RNAi suppressed nematode parasitism and/or reproduction. Moreover, overexpression of MiMsp40 in plants suppressed the deposition of callose and the expression of marker genes for bacterial elicitor elf18-triggered immunity. Transient expression of MiMsp40 prevented Bax-triggered defence-related programmed cell death. Co-agroinfiltration assays indicated that MiMsp40 also suppressed macroscopic cell death triggered by MAPK cascades or by the ETI cognate elicitors R3a/Avr3a. Together, these results demonstrate that MiMsp40 is a novel Meloidogyne-specific effector that is injected into plant cells by early parasitic stages of the nematode and that plays a role in suppressing PTI and/or ETI signals to facilitate RKN parasitism.

Virtual screening and pharmacophore design for a novel theoretical inhibitor of macrophage stimulating factor as a metastatic agent.

PubMed

Torktaz, Ibrahim; Mohamadhashem, Faezeh; Esmaeili, Abolghasem; Behjati, Mohaddeseh; Sharifzadeh, Sara

2013-01-01

Metastasis is a crucial aspect of cancer. Macrophage stimulating protein (MSP) is a single chain protein and can be cleaved by serum proteases. MSP has several roles in metastasis. In this in silico study, MSP as a metastatic agent was considered as a drug target. Crystallographic structure of MSP was retrieved from protein data bank. To find a chemical inhibitor of MSP, a library of KEGG compounds was screened and 1000 shape complemented ligands were retrieved with FindSite algorithm. Molegro Virtual Docker (MVD) software was used for docking simulation of shape complemented ligands against MSP. Moldock score was used as scoring function for virtual screening and potential inhibitors with more negative binding energy were obtained. PLANS scoring function was used for revaluation of virtual screening data. The top found chemical had binding affinity of -183.55 based on MolDock score and equal to -66.733 PLANTs score to MSP structure. Based on pharmacophore model of potential inhibitor, this study suggests that the chemical which was found in this research and its derivate can be used for subsequent laboratory studies.

Fundamentals of sol-gel dip-coating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brinker, C. Jeffrey; Hurd, Alan J.

1994-07-01

During the process of dip-coating, the substrate is withdrawn from the sol at a constant rate. After several seconds, the process becomes steady. The entrained film thins by evaporation of solvent and gravitational draining. Because the shape of the depositing film remains constant with respect to the reservoir surface, it is possible to use analytical methods such as ellipsometry and fluorescence spectroscopy to characterize the depositing film in situ. The microstructure and properties of the film depend on the size and structure of the inorganic sol species, the magnitude of the capillary pressure exerted during drying, and the relative rates of condensation and drying. By controlling these parameters, it is possible to vary the porosity of the film over a wide range. Pendant l'opération de " dip-coating ", le substrat est retiré du sol à vitesse constante. La couche s'amincit du fait de l'évaporation du solvant et de l'écoulement gravitationnel. Après plusieurs secondes, le processus atteint un régime stationnaire. Le profil du film déposé reste alors constant par rapport à la surface du sol. On peut le caractériser in situ par des méthodes optiques telles que l'ellipsométrie et la spectroscopie de fluorescence. La texture et les propriétés de la couche dépendent de la taille et de la structure (par exemple de la dimension fractale) des espèces en solution, de l'importance de la tension capillaire pendant le séchage, et des cinétiques de condensation. En contrôlant ces paramètres, on peut faire varier la porosité de la couche dans une large gamme.

Exploring Alternate Processes Contributing to the Association Between Maternal Smoking and the Smoking Behavior Among Young Adult Offspring

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Introduction: Maternal smoking during pregnancy (MSP) is a known risk factor for regular smoking in young adulthood and may pose a risk independently of mother’s lifetime smoking. The processes through which MSP exerts this influence are unknown but may occur through greater smoking quantity and frequency following initiation early in adolescence or increased sensitivity to nicotine dependence (ND) at low levels of smoking. Methods: This study used path analysis to investigate adolescent smoking quantity, smoking frequency, and ND as potential simultaneous mediating pathways through which MSP and mother’s lifetime smoking (whether she has ever smoked) increase the risk of smoking in young adulthood among experimenters (at baseline, <100 cigarettes/lifetime) and current smokers (>100 cigarettes/lifetime). Results: For experimenters, MSP was directly associated with more frequent young adult smoking and was not mediated by adolescent smoking behavior or ND. Independently of MSP, the effect of mother’s lifetime smoking was fully mediated through frequent smoking and was heightened ND during adolescence. Controlling for MSP eliminated a previously observed direct association between mother’s lifetime smoking and future smoking among experimenters. For current smokers, only prior smoking behavior was associated with future smoking frequency. Conclusions: These results seem to rule out sensitivity to ND and increased smoking behavior as contributing pathways of MSP. Further, the impact of MSP on young adult smoking extends beyond that of having an ever-smoking mother. Future work should test other possible mediators; for example, MSP-related epigenetic changes or gene variants influencing the brain’s nicotine response. PMID:23766342

Training the next generation of physician researchers - Vanderbilt Medical Scholars Program.

PubMed

Brown, Abigail M; Chipps, Teresa M; Gebretsadik, Tebeb; Ware, Lorraine B; Islam, Jessica Y; Finck, Luke R; Barnett, Joey; Hartert, Tina V

2018-01-04

As highlighted in recent reports published by the Physician-Scientist Workforce Working Group at the National Institutes of Health, the percentage of physicians conducting research has declined over the past decade. Various programs have been put in place to support and develop current medical student interest in research to alleviate this shortage, including The Vanderbilt University School of Medicine Medical Scholars Program (MSP). This report outlines the long-term program goals and short-term outcomes on career development of MSP alumni, to shed light on the effectiveness of research training programs during undergraduate medical training to inform similar programs in the United States. MSP alumni were asked to complete an extensive survey assessing demographics, accomplishments, career progress, future career plans, and MSP program evaluation. Fifty-five (81%) MSP alumni responded, among whom 12 had completed all clinical training. The demographics of MSP alumni survey respondents are similar to those of all Vanderbilt medical students and medical students at all other Association of American Medical College (AAMC) medical schools. MSP alumni published a mean of 1.9 peer-reviewed manuscripts (95% CI:1.2, 2.5), and 51% presented at national meetings. Fifty-eight percent of respondents reported that MSP participation either changed their career goals or helped to confirm or refine their career goals. Results suggest that the MSP program both prepares students for careers in academic medicine and influences their career choices at an early juncture in their training. A longer follow-up period is needed to fully evaluate the long-term outcomes of some participants.

La ponction biopsie hépatique à Dakar: indications, complications et apport diagnostique - à propos de 70 cas

PubMed Central

Touré, Papa Souleymane; Léye, Abdoulaye; Diop, Madoky Maguette; Gueye, Mame Daouda; Léye, Yakham Mohamed; Berthé, Adama; Mourtalla Ka, Mamadou

2014-01-01

Introduction Les objectifs de notre travail étaient de déterminer les indications, les complications et l'apport diagnostique de la ponction biopsie hépatique (PBH) transpariétale. Méthodes Il s'agissait d'une étude rétrospective descriptive allant du janvier 2006 à décembre 2010, réalisée dans le service de Médecine Interne de l'hôpital de Pikine de Dakar. Etaient inclus, tous les malades ayant subi une biopsie hépatique, en ambulatoire ou en hospitalisation. Etaient exclus, tous les patients qui ont bénéficié d'une PBH dont les résultats n'ont pas été retrouvés. Les données suivantes étaient étudié: l’âge, le sexe, les indications, la taille du fragment biopsique, Le nombre de carottes, les complications, la comparaison des diagnostics pré biopsiques avec les comptes rendus histologiques. Résultats Ont été colligées 70 patients atteints d'hépatopathie chronique ayant bénéficiés d'une PBH. Il s'agissait de 46 hommes (65.71%) et 24 femmes (34.29%). L’âge moyen des patients était de 36 ans. Les PBH étaient réalisées en ambulatoire chez 58 patients (82.86%) et chez 12 malades hospitalisés (17,14%). Les indications étaient dominées par les hépatites virales chroniques dans 62,86% (44cas), suivi des processus tumoraux du foie dans 24.29% (17 cas). Les complications survenues chez 15 patients (21.43%) étaient représentées de 14 cas de douleur (20%) et d'un cas de malaise vagal (1.43%). Les 70 PBH effectuées ont ramené une carotte dans 35,71% des cas, 2 à 6 carottes dans 32,87% des cas. La longueur moyenne des fragments biopsiques était de 22 ±8 mm. Soixante-six résultats étaient interprétables et 4 non interprétables soit une performance diagnostique de 94,29%. Conclusion La PBH est de pratique sure, avec un respect des contres indications et une bonne maitrise de la technique. Son acceptabilité a été bonne dans notre pratique et sa rentabilité diagnostique excellente. Elle devrait être beaucoup plus vulgarisée dans notre pays, comme alternative aux moyens d'exploration non invasive. PMID:25452831

Diversity and population structure of Plasmodium falciparum in Thailand based on the spatial and temporal haplotype patterns of the C-terminal 19-kDa domain of merozoite surface protein-1.

PubMed

Simpalipan, Phumin; Pattaradilokrat, Sittiporn; Siripoon, Napaporn; Seugorn, Aree; Kaewthamasorn, Morakot; Butcher, Robert D J; Harnyuttanakorn, Pongchai

2014-02-12

The 19-kDa C-terminal region of the merozoite surface protein-1 of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum (PfMSP-119) constitutes the major component on the surface of merozoites and is considered as one of the leading candidates for asexual blood stage vaccines. Because the protein exhibits a level of sequence variation that may compromise the effectiveness of a vaccine, the global sequence diversity of PfMSP-119 has been subjected to extensive research, especially in malaria endemic areas. In Thailand, PfMSP-119 sequences have been derived from a single parasite population in Tak province, located along the Thailand-Myanmar border, since 1995. However, the extent of sequence variation and the spatiotemporal patterns of the MSP-119 haplotypes along the Thai borders with Laos and Cambodia are unknown. Sixty-three isolates of P. falciparum from five geographically isolated populations along the Thai borders with Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia in three transmission seasons between 2002 and 2008 were collected and culture-adapted. The msp-1 gene block 17 was sequenced and analysed for the allelic diversity, frequency and distribution patterns of PfMSP-119 haplotypes in individual populations. The PfMSP-119 haplotype patterns were then compared between parasite populations to infer the population structure and genetic differentiation of the malaria parasite. Five conserved polymorphic positions, which accounted for five distinct haplotypes, of PfMSP-119 were identified. Differences in the prevalence of PfMSP-119 haplotypes were detected in different geographical regions, with the highest levels of genetic diversity being found in the Kanchanaburi and Ranong provinces along the Thailand-Myanmar border and Trat province located at the Thailand-Cambodia border. Despite this variability, the distribution patterns of individual PfMSP-119 haplotypes seemed to be very similar across the country and over the three malarial transmission seasons, suggesting that gene flow may operate between parasite populations circulating in Thailand and the three neighboring countries. The major MSP-119 haplotypes of P. falciparum populations in all endemic populations during three transmission seasons in Thailand were identified, providing basic information on the common haplotypes of MSP-119 that is of use for malaria vaccine development and inferring the population structure of P. falciparum populations in Thailand.

Taking Account of Gender Differences When Designing Interventions in Occupational Health? Lessons from a Study of the "Healthy Enterprise" Standard in Québec: Les différences de genre sont-elles prises en compte lors de la conception des interventions de prévention en santé au travail? Résultats d une étude sur la norme "Entreprises en Santé" dans les entreprises au Québec.

PubMed

Sultan-Taïeb, Hélène; St-Hilaire, France; Lefebvre, Rébecca; Biron, Caroline; Vézina, Michel; Brisson, Chantal

2017-11-01

The literature shows substantial differences in occupational exposures between men and women, both between and within occupations, but remains very sparse on whether interventions are tailored to gender differences in the workplace. Our objective was to determine whether gender differences are taken into account when designing prevention interventions. This study is part of a project on the evaluation of interventions implemented in the framework of the "Healthy Enterprise" standard in Quebec organizations. Three sets of quantitative and qualitative data were collected in seven organizations and triangulated. Our results show that in the process of elaborating and implementing activities, the main objectives were to reach a maximum number of workers and meet the needs identified in a health and risk diagnosis. Activities were not tailored to the needs of specific subgroups of employees, such as gender or age. Not distinguishing men's and women's situations in this diagnosis may play a role in intervention design. Résumé La littérature montre des différences d'exposition au travail importantes entre les hommes et les femmes, y compris à catégories d'emploi identiques. Les études sur l'adaptation des interventions de prévention aux différences de genre dans les milieux de travail sont quasiment inexistantes dans la littérature. Notre objectif était de déterminer dans quelle mesure les différences de genre sont prises en compte lors de la conception des interventions de prévention. Cette étude fait partie d'un projet d'évaluation des interventions mises en œuvre dans le cadre de la norme «Entreprises en santéé au Québec. Trois séries de données quantitatives et qualitatives ont été collectées auprès de sept organisations et analysées par triangulation. Nos résultats montrent que lors du processus d'élaboration des activités, les principaux objectifs étaient d'atteindre un nombre maximal de travailleurs et de remplir les besoins identifiés dans le diagnostic des risques et de la santé des travailleurs. Le fait que la situation des hommes et des femmes n'ait pas été analysée séparément dans le diagnostic peut avoir joué un râle dans ce résultat. Les activités de prévention n'ont pas été conçues en tenant compte de sous-groupes de travailleurs en fonction du genre ou de l'âge.

Msp40 effector of root-knot nematode manipulates plant immunity to facilitate parasitism

PubMed Central

Niu, Junhai; Liu, Pei; Liu, Qian; Chen, Changlong; Guo, Quanxin; Yin, Junmei; Yang, Guangsui; Jian, Heng

2016-01-01

Root-knot nematodes (RKNs) are obligate biotrophic parasites that invade plant roots and engage in prolonged and intimate relationships with their hosts. Nematode secretions, some of which have immunosuppressing activity, play essential roles in successful parasitism; however, their mechanisms of action remain largely unknown. Here, we show that the RKN-specific gene MiMsp40, cloned from Meloidogyne incognita, is expressed exclusively in subventral oesophageal gland cells and is strongly upregulated during early parasitic stages. Arabidopsis plants overexpressing MiMsp40 were more susceptible to nematode infection than were wild type plants. Conversely, the host-derived MiMsp40 RNAi suppressed nematode parasitism and/or reproduction. Moreover, overexpression of MiMsp40 in plants suppressed the deposition of callose and the expression of marker genes for bacterial elicitor elf18-triggered immunity. Transient expression of MiMsp40 prevented Bax-triggered defence-related programmed cell death. Co-agroinfiltration assays indicated that MiMsp40 also suppressed macroscopic cell death triggered by MAPK cascades or by the ETI cognate elicitors R3a/Avr3a. Together, these results demonstrate that MiMsp40 is a novel Meloidogyne-specific effector that is injected into plant cells by early parasitic stages of the nematode and that plays a role in suppressing PTI and/or ETI signals to facilitate RKN parasitism. PMID:26797310

Genetic diversity in the C-terminus of merozoite surface protein 1 among Plasmodium knowlesi isolates from Selangor and Sabah Borneo, Malaysia.

PubMed

Yap, Nan Jiun; Goh, Xiang Ting; Koehler, Anson V; William, Timothy; Yeo, Tsin Wen; Vythilingam, Indra; Gasser, Robin B; Lim, Yvonne A L

2017-10-01

Plasmodium knowlesi, a malaria parasite of macaques, has emerged as an important parasite of humans. Despite the significance of P. knowlesi malaria in parts of Southeast Asia, very little is known about the genetic variation in this parasite. Our aim here was to explore sequence variation in a molecule called the 42kDa merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP-1), which is found on the surface of blood stages of Plasmodium spp. and plays a key role in erythrocyte invasion. Several studies of P. falciparum have reported that the C-terminus (a 42kDa fragment) of merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP-1 42 ; consisting of MSP-1 19 and MSP-1 33 ) is a potential candidate for a malaria vaccine. However, to date, no study has yet investigated the sequence diversity of the gene encoding P. knowlesi MSP-1 42 (comprising Pk-msp-1 19 and Pk-msp-1 33 ) among isolates in Malaysia. The present study explored this aspect. Twelve P. knowlesi isolates were collected from patients from hospitals in Selangor and Sabah Borneo, Malaysia, between 2012 and 2014. The Pk-msp-1 42 gene was amplified by PCR and directly sequenced. Haplotype diversity (Hd) and nucleotide diversity (л) were studied among the isolates. There was relatively high genetic variation among P. knowlesi isolates; overall Hd and л were 1±0.034 and 0.01132±0.00124, respectively. A total of nine different haplotypes related to amino acid alterations at 13 positions, and the Pk-MSP-1 19 sequence was found to be more conserved than Pk-msp-1 33 . We have found evidence for negative selection in Pk-msp- 42 as well as the 33kDa and 19kDa fragments by comparing the rate of non-synonymous versus synonymous substitutions. Future investigations should study large numbers of samples from disparate geographical locations to critically assess whether this molecule might be a potential vaccine target for P. knowlesi. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Etude exploratoire des conceptions de la circulation sanguine aupres d'eleves de l'ordre collegial

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Robitaille, Jean-Marc

Il existe peu d'etudes sur les conceptions touchant les domaines de la biologie, notamment sur les conceptions de la circulation sanguine Nous avons observe egalement l'absence de recherche menee aupres d'eleves de l'ordre collegial sur cette question. Nous avons voulu combler une lacune en menant une recherche sur les conceptions de la circulation sanguine aupres d'eleves de l'ordre collegial. Pour mener cette recherche nous nous sommes inspires d'une methode developpee par Treagust (1988). Le premier niveau de formulation didactique etablit l'architecture du systeme et la fonction nutritive de la circulation. Le second niveau de formulation didactique decrit et relie les parametres de la dynamique de la circulation et leur relation: Pression, Debit et Resistance. Le troisieme niveau de formulation didactique s'interesse au controle de la circulation du sang dans un contexte d'homeostasie qui implique la regulation de la pression arterielle. Nous avons construit un questionnaire en nous guidant sur les niveaux de formulation didactique et l'analyse des entrevues menees aupres de dix-huit eleves, representatifs de la population cible. Ce questionnaire fut administre a un echantillon de 2300 eleves disperses dans six colleges de la region de Montreal. Notre echantillon comprend des eleves inscrits a des programmes de l'ordre collegial en Sciences de la nature et en Techniques de la sante et qui n'ont pas suivi le cours sur la circulation sanguine. Notre analyse des reponses des eleves de notre echantillon aux questions sur le premier niveau de formulation didactique revele que la majorite des eleves considerent que le systeme circulatoire relie les organes les uns aux autres dans un circuit en serie. Notre analyse revele egalement que la majorite des eleves estiment que les nutriments sont extraits du sang par les organes selon un processus de selection base sur les besoins determines par la fonction de l'organe. Ces besoins sont differents selon les organes qui ne prelevent que les nutriments necessaires. Au second niveau les reponses des eleves de la population indiquent une conception de la dynamique cardio-vasculaire axee d'abord sur le coeur, laissant aux vaisseaux un role passif de canaux. Ces reponses indiquent egalement que la dynamique circulatoire est reduite a une sequence d'etapes ponctuelles sans relation les unes avec les autres. Au troisieme niveau les reponses des eleves de la population font etat d'une conception du controle qui privilegie la satisfaction de besoins locaux, sans relation systemique. Nos resultats suggerent que les eleves de notre echantillon affichent une plus grande concordance avec l'expert pour les questions du premier niveau (70%) que pour les niveaux II (54%) et III (50%). Notre analyse des donnees revele que l'accord avec l'expert est eleve lorsque la questions touchent la description des structures et la definition de leurs roles et plus faible lorsque les questions touchent la dynamique et le controle. Il existerait donc un niveau de formulation qui correspond a la description de structures et un autre niveau qui recoupe toute la dynamique de la circulation et son controle. Du point de vue didactique lanalyse des donnees suggere que nous ne retrouvons pas une correspondance entre les niveaux de formulation didactique et les conceptions des eleves. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

Virtual Screening and Pharmacophore Design for a Novel Theoretical Inhibitor of Macrophage Stimulating Factor as a Metastatic Agent

PubMed Central

Torktaz, Ibrahim; Mohamadhashem, Faezeh; Esmaeili, Abolghasem; Behjati, Mohaddeseh; Sharifzadeh, Sara

2013-01-01

Introduction: Metastasis is a crucial aspect of cancer. Macrophage stimulating protein (MSP) is a single chain protein and can be cleaved by serum proteases. MSP has several roles in metastasis. In this in silico study, MSP as a metastatic agent was considered as a drug target. Methods: Crystallographic structure of MSP was retrieved from protein data bank. To find a chemical inhibitor of MSP, a library of KEGG compounds was screened and 1000 shape complemented ligands were retrieved with FindSite algorithm. Molegro Virtual Docker (MVD) software was used for docking simulation of shape complemented ligands against MSP. Moldock score was used as scoring function for virtual screening and potential inhibitors with more negative binding energy were obtained. PLANS scoring function was used for revaluation of virtual screening data. Results: The top found chemical had binding affinity of -183.55 based on MolDock score and equal to -66.733 PLANTs score to MSP structure. Conclusion: Based on pharmacophore model of potential inhibitor, this study suggests that the chemical which was found in this research and its derivate can be used for subsequent laboratory studies. PMID:24163807

Anti-Fatigue and Antioxidant Activity of the Polysaccharides Isolated from Millettiae speciosae Champ. Leguminosae

PubMed Central

Zhao, Xiao-Ning; Liang, Jia-Li; Chen, Han-Bin; Liang, Ye-Er; Guo, Hui-Zhen; Su, Ze-Ren; Li, Yu-Cui; Zeng, Hui-Fang; Zhang, Xiao-Jun

2015-01-01

Millettiae speciosae Champ. Leguminosae (MSC), is a well-known Chinese herb traditionally used as food material and medicine for enhancing physical strength. Our preliminary study found that the aqueous extract of this herb (MSE) had an anti-fatigue effect. In this paper, we further separated MSE into total polysaccharides (MSP) and supernatant (MSS) by alcohol precipitation, and explored which fraction was active for its anti-fatigue effect. Mice were orally administered with MSP or MSS at the doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg for 20 days and the anti-fatigue effect was assessed by exhaustive swimming exercise (ESE). The biochemical parameters related to fatigue after ESE and the in vitro antioxidant activity of active fraction were determined. Our results showed that MSP, instead of MSS, significantly extended the swimming time to exhaustion (p < 0.05), indicating that MSP is responsible for the anti-fatigue effect of MSE. In addition, MSP treatment increased the levels of glucose (Glu) and muscle glycogen, whereas it decreased the accumulations of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and lactic acid (Lac). Moreover, ESE increased the levels of creatine phosphokinase (CK), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), and malondialdehyde (MDA) but reduced superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) in plasma. In contrast, MSP inhibited all the above changes relating to fatigue. Furthermore, an in vitro antioxidant test revealed that MSP dose-dependently scavenged ·OH and DPPH free radicals. Taken together, these findings strongly suggested that MSP was able to alleviate physical fatigue by increasing energy resources and decreasing accumulation of detrimental metabolites. The antioxidant activity may crucially contribute to the observed anti-fatigue effect of MSP. PMID:26506375

[Separation of purines, pyrimidines, pterins and flavonoids on magnolol-bonded silica gel stationary phase by high performance liquid chromatography].

PubMed

Chen, Hong; Li, Laishen; Zhang, Yang; Zhou, Rendan

2012-10-01

A new magnolol-bonded silica gel stationary phase (MSP) was used to separate the basic drugs including four purines, eight pyrimidines, four pterins and five flavonoids as polar representative samples by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). To clarify the separation mechanism, a commercial ODS column was also tested under the same chromatographic conditions. The high selectivities and fast baseline separations of the above drugs were achieved by using simple mobile phases on MSP. Although there is no end-caped treatment, the peak shapes of basic drugs containing nitrogen such as purines, pyrimidines and pterins were rather symmetrical on MSP, which indicated the the magnolol as ligand with multi-sites could shield the side effect of residual silanol groups on the surface of silica gel. Although somewhat different in the separation resolution, it was found that the elution orders of some drugs were generally similar on both MSP and ODS. The hydrophobic interaction should play a significant role in the separations of the above basic drugs, which was attributed to their reversed-phase property in the nature. However, MSP could provide the additional sites for many polar solutes, which was a rational explanation for the high selectivity of MSP. For example, in the separation of purines, pyrimidines and pterins on MSP, hydrogen-bonding and dipole-dipole interactions played leading roles besides hydrophobic interaction. Some solute molecules (such as mercaptopurine, vitexicarpin) and MSP can form the strong pi-pi stacking in the separation process. All enhanced the retention and improved the separation selectivity of MSP, which facilitated the separation of the basic drugs.

Anti-Fatigue and Antioxidant Activity of the Polysaccharides Isolated from Millettiae speciosae Champ. Leguminosae.

PubMed

Zhao, Xiao-Ning; Liang, Jia-Li; Chen, Han-Bin; Liang, Ye-Er; Guo, Hui-Zhen; Su, Ze-Ren; Li, Yu-Cui; Zeng, Hui-Fang; Zhang, Xiao-Jun

2015-10-21

Millettiae speciosae Champ. Leguminosae (MSC), is a well-known Chinese herb traditionally used as food material and medicine for enhancing physical strength. Our preliminary study found that the aqueous extract of this herb (MSE) had an anti-fatigue effect. In this paper, we further separated MSE into total polysaccharides (MSP) and supernatant (MSS) by alcohol precipitation, and explored which fraction was active for its anti-fatigue effect. Mice were orally administered with MSP or MSS at the doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg for 20 days and the anti-fatigue effect was assessed by exhaustive swimming exercise (ESE). The biochemical parameters related to fatigue after ESE and the in vitro antioxidant activity of active fraction were determined. Our results showed that MSP, instead of MSS, significantly extended the swimming time to exhaustion (p < 0.05), indicating that MSP is responsible for the anti-fatigue effect of MSE. In addition, MSP treatment increased the levels of glucose (Glu) and muscle glycogen, whereas it decreased the accumulations of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and lactic acid (Lac). Moreover, ESE increased the levels of creatine phosphokinase (CK), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), and malondialdehyde (MDA) but reduced superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) in plasma. In contrast, MSP inhibited all the above changes relating to fatigue. Furthermore, an in vitro antioxidant test revealed that MSP dose-dependently scavenged ·OH and DPPH free radicals. Taken together, these findings strongly suggested that MSP was able to alleviate physical fatigue by increasing energy resources and decreasing accumulation of detrimental metabolites. The antioxidant activity may crucially contribute to the observed anti-fatigue effect of MSP.

N° 342-L'hépatite B et la grossesse.

PubMed

Castillo, Eliana; Murphy, Kellie; van Schalkwyk, Julie

2017-03-01

Examiner l'épidémiologie, l'histoire naturelle, l'évaluation et le traitement de l'infection au virus de l'hépatite B (VHB) durant la grossesse. Cela aidera les fournisseurs de soins obstétricaux à conseiller leurs patientes quant aux risques périnataux et aux options de prise en charge offertes aux femmes enceintes atteintes de l'hépatite B. Les éléments évalués comprennent les seuils de traitement antiviral contre le VHB pour la prévention de la transmission périnatale et pour les interventions effractives durant la grossesse pour les femmes atteintes de l'hépatite B. RéSULTATS: Nous avons recherché dans MEDLINE, Embase et CINAHL des articles en anglais sur les sujets liés à l'infection par le VHB, à la grossesse et à la transmission périnatale publiés de 1966 à mars 2016. Nous n'avons tenu compte que des résultats qui proviennent de revues systématiques, d'essais contrôlés aléatoires ou d'essais cliniques contrôlés et d'études d'observation. Nous avons également étudié d'autres articles (non publiés) trouvés sur les sites Web d'organismes d'évaluation des technologies de la santé et d'autres organismes connexes, dans des collections de directives cliniques et dans des registres d'essais cliniques, et obtenus auprès d'associations nationales et internationales de médecins spécialistes. MéTHODES DE VALIDATION: La qualité des résultats a été évaluée au moyen des critères décrits dans le rapport du Groupe d'étude canadien sur les soins de santé préventifs (Tableau 1). Les recommandations pour la pratique sont classées selon la méthode décrite dans ce rapport. MISE à JOUR DE DIRECTIVES CLINIQUES: La directive clinique sera évaluée cinq ans après sa publication afin de déterminer si une mise à jour est nécessaire. Cependant, si de nouvelles données probantes importantes sont publiées avant la fin du cycle de cinq ans, le processus peut être accéléré pour mettre à jour rapidement certaines recommandations. La présente directive clinique a été élaborée à l'aide de ressources financées par la Société des obstétriciens et gynécologues du Canada. RECOMMANDATIONS. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Competition entre supraconductivite et magnetisme au voisinage de la transition de Mott dans le conducteur organique quasi-bidimensionnel k-(BEDT-TTF)2copper[N(CN)2]bromine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fournier, David

Les conducteurs organiques quasi-bidimensionnels kappa-ET2X presentent d'importantes similitudes avec les SCHT telles qu'une phase isolant de Mott, un regime de pseudogap et un etat supraconducteur. L'etude de leurs proprietes apparait donc complementaire. Parmi les interrogations persistantes concernant la physique de ces systemes, l'origine du (ou des) processus exotique d'appariement, responsable de la supraconductivite est le sujet suscitant l'interet le plus marque dans la communaute. L'hypothese d'un mecanisme lie a la proximite d'un etat antiferromagnetique est privilegiee. Une etape importante dans la resolution de cette problematique est l'identification de la symetrie du parametre d'ordre. D'apres de nombreux travaux sur les systemes fortement correles, la sonde ultrasonore, de par sa sensibilite aux excitations de quasiparticule a basse temperature, est consideree comme particulierement adaptee a l'etude de cette propriete. Cependant, son emploi necessite l'utilisation d'un compose metallique a basse temperature et completement supraconducteur. Le compose metallique organique kappa-ET 2Cu[N(CN)2]Br presente toutes les caracteristiques necessaires a l'etude de cette propriete. En effet, il est situe loin de la transition du premier ordre de Mott et est completement supraconducteur. De facon surprenante, ce systeme semble se coupler fortement avec le reseau ce qui augmente significativement la sensibilite de cette sonde aux proprietes du gaz electronique. Cependant, des difficultes techniques importantes, liees a la nature intrinseque de ce materiau, doivent etre surmontees pour proceder a des mesures suivant differentes polarisations. La presente etude a profondement modifie notre comprehension de ce systeme. En effet, ces mesures ont permis de constater que le kappa-ET2Cu[N(CN)2]Br est un compose qui est situe en bordure de la zone de coexistence entre la supraconductivite et le magnetisme, ce qui constitue un resultat totalement inattendu. De plus, la variation judicieuse du cycle thermique s'est averee etre equivalente a une modification de la pression chimique. Cette derniere est modifiee par l'intermediaire d'une relaxation structurale autour de 85 K appelee la transition de verre d'ethylenes. Cela nous a permis de suivre l'evolution de cette coexistence en s'approchant de la transition de premier ordre, et ainsi de statuer sur la competition entre la supraconductivite et le magnetisme ainsi que sur l'existence d'une separation de phase d'ordre macroscopique. De plus, nous avons observe une anisotropie similaire sur les mesures de vitesse ultrasonore entre le regime de pseudogap et la supraconductivite. Ce resultat tend a confirmer l'existence d'une physique commune entre le regime de pseudogap et l'etat supraconducteur. Le regime de pseudogap, encore meconnu a ce jour, est probablement relie a des fluctuations antiferromagnetiques, dont l'origine pourrait etre un emboitement de la surface de Fermi quasi-unidimensionnelle de ce compose, ou bien relie a la proximite de la physique de Mott. Enfin, l'analyse de la symetrie du parametre d'ordre supraconducteur, qui est probablement de type s+d, tend a demontrer que les processus de couplage interplan sont d'une importance cruciale. L'approche theorique de Hubbard purement 2D dans le plan conducteur semble donc insuffisante pour la recherche du mecanisme d'appariement.

Recent development, applications, and perspectives of mesoporous silica particles in medicine and biotechnology.

PubMed

Pasqua, Luigi; Cundari, Sante; Ceresa, Cecilia; Cavaletti, Guido

2009-01-01

Mesoporous silica particles (MSP) are a new development in nanotechnology. Covalent modification of the surface of the silica is possible both on the internal pore and on the external particle surface. It allows the design of functional nanostructured materials with properties of organic, biological and inorganic components. Research and development are ongoing on the MSP, which have applications in catalysis, drug delivery and imaging. The most recent and interesting advancements in size, morphology control and surface functionalization of MSP have enhanced the biocompatibility of these materials with high surface areas and pore volumes. In the last 5 years several reports have demonstrated that MSP can be efficiently internalized using in vitro and animal models. The functionalization of MSP with organic moieties or other nanostructures brings controlled release and molecular recognition capabilities to these mesoporous materials for drug/gene delivery and sensing applications, respectively. Herein, we review recent research progress on the design of functional MSP materials with various mechanisms of targeting and controlled release.

Passive transfer of growth-inhibitory antibodies raised against yeast-expressed recombinant Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein-1(19).

PubMed

Gozalo, A; Lucas, C; Cachay, M; Wellde, B T; Hall, T; Bell, B; Wood, J; Watts, D; Wooster, M; Lyon, J A; Moch, J K; Haynes, J D; Williams, J S; Holland, C; Watson, E; Kester, K E; Kaslow, D C; Ballou, W R

1998-12-01

Purified rabbit immunoglobulin raised against yeast-expressed recombinant FVO or 3D7 Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP-1) 19k-D C terminal fragment (MSP-1(19)) was transfused into malaria-naive Aotus nancymai monkeys that were immediately challenged with FVO asexual stage malaria parasites. Control monkeys received rabbit immunoglobulin raised against the sexual stage antigen Pfs25 or Aotus hyperimmune serum obtained from monkeys immunized by P. falciparum infection and drug cure. Passive transfer of rabbit anti-MSP-1(19) failed to protect against homologous or heterologous challenge and, when compared with negative controls, there were no differences in prepatent periods or time to treatment. Interestingly, rabbit anti-MSP-1(19), but not anti-Pfs25, immunoglobulin, and immune monkey serum prevented the development of antibodies directed against MSP-1(19) fragment by infected monkeys, indicating that the antibodies were reactive with native MSP-1(19) antigen in vivo. The prepatent period and time to treatment was greatly delayed in the two monkeys that received Aotus immune serum, both of which developed a chronic intermittent low level infection. In vitro parasite growth inhibition assays (GIAs) confirmed the presence of inhibitory activity (40% maximum inhibition) in concentrated anti-MSP-1(19) immunoglobulin (4.8 mg/ml), but the peak concentrations we achieved in vivo (1 mg/ml) were not inhibitory in vitro. Subinhibitory levels of anti-MSP-1(19) antibodies achieved by passive transfer were not protective against P. falciparum challenge.

Short-pulse neodymium:yttrium-aluminium garnet (Nd:YAG 1064nm) laser irradiation photobiomodulates mitochondria activity and cellular multiplication of Paramecium primaurelia (Protozoa).

PubMed

Amaroli, Andrea; Benedicenti, Alberico; Ravera, Silvia; Parker, Steven; Selting, Wayne; Panfoli, Isabella; Benedicenti, Stefano

2017-10-01

Few studies exist to explore the potential photobiomodulation (PBM) effect of neodymium:yttrium-aluminium garnet (Nd:YAG) laser irradiation using a flat-top handpiece delivery system. In this study, we explored the photobiomodulation effect of that laser, on Paramecium primaurelia. The parameters for the different study groups were: 0.50W, 10Hz, 100msp, 30J/cm 2 ; 0.75W, 10Hz, 100msp, 45J/cm 2 ; 1.00W, 10Hz, 100msp, 60J/cm 2 ; 1.25W, 10Hz, 100msp, 75J/cm 2 and 1.50W, 10Hz, 100msp, 90J/cm 2 . Our results suggest that only the parameter 0.5W, 10Hz, 100msp, 30J/cm 2 positively photobiomodulates the Paramecium cells inducing an increment in oxygen consumption, endogenous ATP synthesis and fission rate rhythm. Applying the laser energy with parameters of 1.25W, 10Hz, 100msp, 75J/cm 2 and 1.50W, 10Hz, 100msp, 90J/cm 2 , induce adverse effect on the Paramecium cells, which protect themselves through the increase in Heat Shock Protein-70 (HSP70). The data presented in our work support our assumption that, when using appropriate parameters of irradiation, the 1064nm Nd:YAG laser with flat-top handpiece could be a valuable aid for effective clinical application of PBM. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

LOWER EXTREMITY KINEMATICS IN RUNNING ATHLETES WITH AND WITHOUT A HISTORY OF MEDIAL SHIN PAIN

PubMed Central

Reiman, Michael P.

2012-01-01

Purpose/Background: Medial shin pain (MSP) is a common complaint that may stop an athlete from running. No previous study has identified deficits in pelvic, hip or knee motion as potential contributing factors to MSP. The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences in kinematics during running between uninjured athletes and those with MSP. Secondary analyses investigated differences in limbs between groups and differences between sexes. Methods: This case-control study investigated fourteen runners aged 18–40 years old with a history of unilateral MSP and fourteen runner controls. Three dimensional lower quarter kinematics were captured as runners ran on a treadmill. Specifically, peak hip internal rotation (IR), frontal plane pelvic tilt (PT) excursion, and knee flexion were examined. Results: Groups were similar in age, mass, height, and training mileage. Subjects with a history of MSP demonstrated significantly greater frontal plane PT (P = 0.002, Effect size = 0.55) and peak hip IR (P = 0.004, Effect size = 0.51); and less knee flexion (P = 0.02, Effect size = 0.46) than the control group. No significant difference was found in kinematics of the MSP group during their involved side stance phase as compared to their non-involved side. Conclusions: Runners with MSP displayed greater PT excursion, peak hip IR, and decreased knee flexion while running as compared to a control group. These results should help guide treatment for the running athlete that experiences MSP. Level of Evidence: 3b PMID:22893855

Lower extremity kinematics in running athletes with and without a history of medial shin pain.

PubMed

Loudon, Janice K; Reiman, Michael P

2012-08-01

Medial shin pain (MSP) is a common complaint that may stop an athlete from running. No previous study has identified deficits in pelvic, hip or knee motion as potential contributing factors to MSP. The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences in kinematics during running between uninjured athletes and those with MSP. Secondary analyses investigated differences in limbs between groups and differences between sexes. This case-control study investigated fourteen runners aged 18-40 years old with a history of unilateral MSP and fourteen runner controls. Three dimensional lower quarter kinematics were captured as runners ran on a treadmill. Specifically, peak hip internal rotation (IR), frontal plane pelvic tilt (PT) excursion, and knee flexion were examined. Groups were similar in age, mass, height, and training mileage. Subjects with a history of MSP demonstrated significantly greater frontal plane PT (P = 0.002, Effect size = 0.55) and peak hip IR (P = 0.004, Effect size = 0.51); and less knee flexion (P = 0.02, Effect size = 0.46) than the control group. No significant difference was found in kinematics of the MSP group during their involved side stance phase as compared to their non-involved side. Runners with MSP displayed greater PT excursion, peak hip IR, and decreased knee flexion while running as compared to a control group. These results should help guide treatment for the running athlete that experiences MSP. 3b.

Protease activity, localization and inhibition in the human hair follicle

PubMed Central

Bhogal, R K; Mouser, P E; Higgins, C A; Turner, G A

2014-01-01

Synopsis Objective In humans, the process of hair shedding, referred to as exogen, is believed to occur independently of the other hair cycle phases. Although the actual mechanisms involved in hair shedding are not fully known, it has been hypothesized that the processes leading to the final step of hair shedding may be driven by proteases and/or protease inhibitor activity. In this study, we investigated the presence of proteases and protease activity in naturally shed human hairs and assessed enzyme inhibition activity of test materials. Methods We measured enzyme activity using a fluorescence-based assay and protein localization by indirect immunohistochemistry (IHC). We also developed an ex vivo skin model for measuring the force required to pull hair fibres from skin. Results Our data demonstrate the presence of protease activity in the tissue material surrounding club roots. We also demonstrated the localization of specific serine protease protein expression in human hair follicle by IHC. These data provide evidence demonstrating the presence of proteases around the hair club roots, which may play a role during exogen. We further tested the hypothesis that a novel protease inhibitor system (combination of Trichogen® and climbazole) could inhibit protease activity in hair fibre club root extracts collected from a range of ethnic groups (UK, Brazil, China, first-generation Mexicans in the USA, Thailand and Turkey) in both males and females. Furthermore, we demonstrated that this combination is capable of increasing the force required to remove hair in an ex vivo skin model system. Conclusion These studies indicate the presence of proteolytic activity in the tissue surrounding the human hair club root and show that it is possible to inhibit this activity with a combination of Trichogen® and climbazole. This technology may have potential to reduce excessive hair shedding. Résumé Objectif Chez l'homme, le processus de perte de cheveux, désigné comme exogène, est censé se produire indépendamment des autres phases du cycle de cheveux. Bien que les mécanismes réels impliqués dans la perte de cheveux ne soient pas entièrement connus, il a été émis l'hypothèse que les processus conduisant à l'étape finale de la perte de cheveux peuvent être modulés par des protéases et/ou l'activité d'inhibiteurs de protéase. Dans cette étude, nous avons étudié la présence de protéases et de l'activité des protéases dans les cheveux humains perdus naturellement et évalué l'activité inhibitrice d'enzyme de différents matériaux. Méthodes Nous avons mesuré l'activité enzymatique en utilisant un dosage basé sur la fluorescence et la localisation des protéines par immunohistochimie indirecte (IHC). Nous avons également développé un modèle de peau ex vivo pour mesurer la force nécessaire pour extraire les fibres capillaires de la peau. Résultats Nos données démontrent la présence d'une activité de la protéase dans le matériau de tissu entourant les racines du bulbe. Nous avons également démontré la localisation de l'expression des protéines de la sérine protéase spécifique du follicule pileux humain par IHC. Ces données fournissent des éléments de preuve démontrant la présence de protéases autour des racines du bulbe de cheveux qui peuvent jouer un rôle durant la phase exogène. Nous avons également testé l'hypothèse selon laquelle un nouveau système inhibiteur de protéase (combinaison de Trichogen ® et climbazole) pouvait inhiber l'activité de la protéase dans les extraits des bulbes de la racine des cheveux, recueillies à partir d'un éventail de groupes ethniques (Royaume-Uni, Brésil, Chine, 1ère génération Mexicains aux États-Unis, Thaïlande et Turquie) dans les deux sexes, mâles et les femelles. En outre, nous avons démontré que cette combinaison est capable d'augmenter la force nécessaire pour enlever les poils dans un système de modèle de peau ex vivo. Conclusion Ces études indiquent la présence d'une activité protéolytique dans le tissu entourant le bulbe de la racine des cheveux humains et montrent qu'il est possible d'inhiber cette activité avec une combinaison de Trichogen ® et climbazole. Cette technologie peut avoir le potentiel de réduire la perte excessive de cheveux. PMID:23992282

Modular Integrated Stackable Layers (MISL) MI_MSP430A Board Design Document (BDD)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yim, Hester

2013-01-01

This is a board-level design document for Modular Integrated Stackable Layers (MISL) MI_MSP430A board (PIN MSP430F5438A). The Board Design Document (BDD) contains the description, features of microcontroller, electrical and mechanical design, and drawings.

Limited variation in vaccine candidate Plasmodium falciparum Merozoite Surface Protein-6 over multiple transmission seasons.

PubMed

Neal, Aaron T; Jordan, Stephen J; Oliveira, Ana L; Hernandez, Jean N; Branch, Oralee H; Rayner, Julian C

2010-05-24

Plasmodium falciparum Merozoite Surface Protein-6 (PfMSP6) is a component of the complex proteinacious coat that surrounds P. falciparum merozoites. This location, and the presence of anti-PfMSP6 antibodies in P. falciparum-exposed individuals, makes PfMSP6 a potential blood stage vaccine target. However, genetic diversity has proven to be a major hurdle for vaccines targeting other blood stage P. falciparum antigens, and few endemic field studies assessing PfMSP6 gene diversity have been conducted. This study follows PfMSP6 diversity in the Peruvian Amazon from 2003 to 2006 and is the first longitudinal assessment of PfMSP6 sequence dynamics. Parasite DNA was extracted from 506 distinct P. falciparum infections spanning the transmission seasons from 2003 to 2006 as part of the Malaria Immunology and Genetics in the Amazon (MIGIA) cohort study near Iquitos, Peru. PfMSP6 was amplified from each sample using a nested PCR protocol, genotyped for allele class by agarose gel electrophoresis, and sequenced to detect diversity. Allele frequencies were analysed using JMP v.8.0.1.0 and correlated with clinical and epidemiological data collected as part of the MIGIA project. Both PfMSP6 allele classes, K1-like and 3D7-like, were detected at the study site, confirming that both are globally distributed. Allele frequencies varied significantly between transmission seasons, with 3D7-class alleles dominating and K1-class alleles nearly disappearing in 2005 and 2006. There was a significant association between allele class and village location (p-value = 0.0008), but no statistically significant association between allele class and age, sex, or symptom status. No intra-allele class sequence diversity was detected. Both PfMSP6 allele classes are globally distributed, and this study shows that allele frequencies can fluctuate significantly between communities separated by only a few kilometres, and over time in the same community. By contrast, PfMSP6 was highly stable at the sequence level, with no SNPs detected in the 506 samples analysed. This limited diversity supports further investigation of PfMSP6 as a blood stage vaccine candidate, with the clear caveat that any such vaccine must either contain both alleles or generate cross-protective responses that react against both allele classes. Detailed immunoepidemiology studies are needed to establish the viability of these approaches before PfMSP6 advances further down the vaccine development pipeline.

Inhibitory and blocking monoclonal antibody epitopes on merozoite surface protein 1 of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum.

PubMed

Uthaipibull, C; Aufiero, B; Syed, S E; Hansen, B; Guevara Patiño, J A; Angov, E; Ling, I T; Fegeding, K; Morgan, W D; Ockenhouse, C; Birdsall, B; Feeney, J; Lyon, J A; Holder, A A

2001-04-13

Merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP-1) is a precursor to major antigens on the surface of Plasmodium spp. merozoites, which are involved in erythrocyte binding and invasion. MSP-1 is initially processed into smaller fragments; and at the time of erythrocyte invasion one of these of 42 kDa (MSP-1(42)) is subjected to a second processing, producing 33 kDa and 19 kDa fragments (MSP-1(33) and MSP-1(19)). Certain MSP-1-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) react with conformational epitopes contained within the two epidermal growth factor domains that comprise MSP-1(19), and are classified as either inhibitory (inhibit processing of MSP-1(42) and erythrocyte invasion), blocking (block the binding and function of the inhibitory mAb), or neutral (neither inhibitory nor blocking). We have mapped the epitopes for inhibitory mAbs 12.8 and 12.10, and blocking mAbs such as 1E1 and 7.5 by using site-directed mutagenesis to change specific amino acid residues in MSP-1(19) and abolish antibody binding, and by using PEPSCAN to measure the reaction of the antibodies with every octapeptide within MSP-1(42). Twenty-six individual amino acid residue changes were made and the effect of each on the binding of mAbs was assessed by Western blotting and BIAcore analysis. Individual changes had either no effect, or reduced, or completely abolished the binding of individual mAbs. No two antibodies had an identical pattern of reactivity with the modified proteins. Using PEPSCAN each mAb reacted with a number of octapeptides, most of which were derived from within the first epidermal growth factor domain, although 1E1 also reacted with peptides spanning the processing site. When the single amino acid changes and the reactive peptides were mapped onto the three-dimensional structure of MSP-1(19), it was apparent that the epitopes for the mAbs could be defined more fully by using a combination of both mutagenesis and PEPSCAN than by either method alone, and differences in the fine specificity of binding for all the different antibodies could be distinguished. The incorporation of several specific amino acid changes enabled the design of proteins that bound inhibitory but not blocking antibodies. These may be suitable for the development of MSP-1-based vaccines against malaria. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.

75 FR 69135 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-10

...: Title of Collection: Evaluation of the National Science Foundation's Math and Science Partnership (MSP...- year clearance for an evaluation of the Math and Science Partnership (MSP) program. The MSP program is..., especially disciplinary faculty in math, sciences, and engineering, with that of K-12 communities in order to...

Multistate Health Plans: Agents for Competition or Consolidation?

PubMed

Moffit, Robert E; Meredith, Neil R

2015-01-01

We discuss and evaluate the Multi-State Plan (MSP) Program, a provision of the Affordable Care Act that has not been the subject of much debate as yet. The MSP Program provides the Office of Personnel Management with new authority to negotiate and implement multistate insurance plans on all health insurance exchanges within the United States. We raise the concern that the MSP Program may lead to further consolidation of the health insurance industry despite the program's stated goal of increasing competition by means of health insurance exchanges. The MSP Program arguably gives a competitive advantage to large insurers, which already dominate health insurance markets. We also contend that the MSP Program's failure to produce increased competition may motivate a new effort for a public health insurance option. © The Author(s) 2015.

Cellulase-assisted extraction of polysaccharides from Malva sylvestris: Process optimization and potential functionalities.

PubMed

Rostami, Hosein; Gharibzahedi, Seyed Mohammad Taghi

2017-08-01

Enzyme-assisted extraction process of the water-soluble Malva sylvestris polysaccharides (MSPs) was optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). The highest yield (10.40%) of MSPs was achieved at 5.64% cellulase, 55.65°C temperature, 3.4h time, and 5.22 pH. Three homogeneous polysaccharide fractions (MSP-1, MSP-2, MSP-3) were purified by DEAE-cellulose and Sephadex G-100 chromatography, which were composed of galactose, glucuronic acid, arabinose, rhamnose and mannose in different molar ratios with molecular weight range of 2.6×10 5 -8.8×10 5 Da. The fractions could significantly increase antioxidant, antitumor and antimicrobial activities in a dose-dependent pattern. MSP-2 revealed stronger antioxidant activities than MSP-1 and MSP-3, including reducing power and scavenging activity of DPPH and OH radicals. The antiproliferative activity of MSP-2 (1.0mg/mL) on the growth of A549 and HepG2 cells was 45.1% and 53.2%, respectively. The Gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus cereus PTCC 1015 and Staphylococcus aureus PTCC 1112) compared with Gram-negative ones (Escherichia coli PTCC 1763 and Salmonella typhimurium PTCC 1709) showed less sensitivity against the various MSPs (3-15mg/mL). Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

An Auction-Based Spectrum Leasing Mechanism for Mobile Macro-Femtocell Networks of IoT.

PubMed

Chen, Xin; Xing, Lei; Qiu, Tie; Li, Zhuo

2017-02-16

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a vision of the upcoming society. It can provide pervasive communication between two or more entities using 4G-LTE (Long Term Evolution) communication technology. In 4G-LTE networks, there are two important problems: helping manage the spectrum demands of IoT devices and achieving much more revenue with the limited resource. This paper proposes a pricing framework to investigate the spectrum leasing in mobile heterogeneous networks with single macrocell and multiple femtocells. We modeled the leasing procedure between the macrocell service provider (MSP) and femtocell holders (FHs) as an auction to motivate the MSP to lease its spectrum resource. All FHs act as the bidders, and the monopolist MSP acts as the auctioneer. In the auction, FHs submit their bids to rent the spectrum resource so that they can make a profit by selling it to their subscribers. The MSP determines the spectrum leasing amount and chooses the winning FHs by solving the dynamic programming-based 0-1 knapsack problem. In our proposed framework, we focus on the spectrum pricing strategy and revenue maximization of the MSP. The simulation results show that the proposed scheme provides effective motivation for the MSP to lease the spectrum to FHs, and both the MSP and FHs can benefit from spectrum leasing.

Geomagnetic disturbances may be environmental risk factor for multiple sclerosis: an ecological study of 111 locations in 24 countries.

PubMed

Sajedi, Seyed Aidin; Abdollahi, Fahimeh

2012-09-24

We noticed that a hypothesis based on the effect of geomagnetic disturbances (GMD) has the ability to explain special features of multiple sclerosis (MS). Areas around geomagnetic 60 degree latitude (GM60L) experience the greatest amount of GMD. The easiest way to evaluate our hypothesis was to test the association of MS prevalence (MSP) with angular distance to geomagnetic 60 degree latitude (AMAG60) and compare it with the known association of MS with geographical latitude (GL). We did the same with angular distance to geographic 60 degree latitude (AGRAPH60) as a control. English written papers with MSP keywords, done in Europe (EUR), North America (NA) or Australasia (AUS) were retrieved from the PubMed. Geomagnetic coordinates were determined for each location and AMAG60 was calculated as absolute value of numerical difference between its geomagnetic latitude from GM60L. By an ecological study with using meta-regression analyses, the relationship of MSP with GL, AMAG60 and AGRAPH60 were evaluated separately. MSP data were weighted by square root of number of prevalent cases. Models were compared by their adjusted R square (AR2) and standard error of estimate (SEE). 111 MSP data were entered in the study. In each continent, AMAG60 had the best correlation with MSP, the largest AR2 (0.47, 0.42 and 0.84 for EUR, NA and AUS, respectively) and the least SEE. Merging both hemispheres data, AMAG60 explained 56% of MSP variations with the least SEE (R = 0.75, AR2 = 0.56, SEE = 57), while GL explained 17% (R = 0.41, AR2 = 0.17, SEE = 78.5) and AGRAPH60 explained 12% of that variations with the highest SEE (R = 0.35, AR2 = 0.12, SEE = 80.5). Our results confirmed that AMAG60 is the best describer of MSP variations and has the strongest association with MSP distribution. They clarified that the well-known latitudinal gradient of MSP may be actually a gradient related to GM60L. Moreover, the location of GM60L can elucidate why MSP has parabolic and linear gradient in the north and south hemisphere, respectively. This preliminary evaluation supported that GMD can be the mysterious environmental risk factor for MS. We believe that this hypothesis deserves to be considered for further validation studies.

Mesure de haute resolution de la fonction de distribution radiale du silicium amorphe pur

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laaziri, Khalid

1999-11-01

Cette these porte sur l'etude de la structure du silicium amorphe prepare par irradiation ionique. Elle presente des mesures de diffraction de rayons X sur de la poudre de silicium cristallin, du silicium amorphe relaxe et non relaxe, ainsi que tous les developpements mathematiques et physiques necessaires pour extraire la fonction de distribution radiale correspondant a chaque echantillon. Au Chapitre I, nous presentons une methode de fabrication de membranes minces de silicium amorphe pur. Il y a deux etapes majeures lors du processus de fabrication: l'implantation ionique, afin de creer une couche amorphe de plusieurs microns et l'attaque chimique, pour enlever le reste du materiau cristallin. Nous avons caracterise premierement les membranes de silicium amorphe par spectroscopie Raman pour verifier qu'il ne reste plus de trace de materiau cristallin dans les films amorphes. Une deuxieme caracterisation par detection de recul elastique (ERD-TOF) sur ces memes membranes a montre qu'il y a moins de 0.1% atomique de contaminants tels que l'oxygene, le carbone, et l'hydrogene. Au Chapitre II, nous proposons une nouvelle methode de correction de la contribution inelastique "Compton" des spectres de diffusion totale afin d'extraire les pics de diffusion elastique, responsable de la diffraction de Bragg. L'article presente tout d'abord une description simplifiee d'une theorie sur la diffusion inelastique dite "Impulse Approximation" (IA) qui permet de calculer des profils de Compton en fonction de l'energie et de l'angle de diffusion 2theta. Ces profils sont utilises comme fonction de lissage de la diffusion Compton experimentale. Pour lisser les pics de diffusion elastique, nous avons utilise une fonction pic de nature asymetrique. Aux Chapitre III, nous exposons de maniere detaillee les resultats des experiences de diffraction de rayons X sur les membranes de silicium amorphe et la poudre de silicium cristallin que nous avons preparees. Nous abordons aussi les differentes etapes experimentales, d'analyse ainsi que les methodes de determination et de filtrage des transformees de Fourier des donnees de diffraction. Une comparaison des fonctions de distribution radiale du silicium amorphe relaxe et non relaxe indique que la relaxation structurelle dans le silicium amorphe est probablement due en grande partie a une annihilation des defauts plutot qu'a une reorganisation atomique globale du reseau de silicium amorphe. La deduction de la coordination des pics correspondants au premiers voisins atomiques par lissage de fonctions gaussienne indique que la coordination du silicium amorphe relaxe est de 3.88, celle du non-relaxe est de 3.79, alors que la mesure de reference sur la poudre de silicium cristallin donne une valeur de 4 tel que prevu. La sous-coordination du silicium amorphe expliquerait pourquoi sa densite est inferieure a celle du silicium cristallin. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

Le niobate de lithium a haute temperature pour les applications ultrasons =

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De Castilla, Hector

L'objectif de ce travail de maitrise en sciences appliquees est de trouver puis etudier un materiau piezoelectrique qui est potentiellement utilisable dans les transducteurs ultrasons a haute temperature. En effet, ces derniers sont actuellement limites a des temperatures de fonctionnement en dessous de 300°C a cause de l'element piezoelectrique qui les compose. Palier a cette limitation permettrait des controles non destructifs par ultrasons a haute temperature. Avec de bonnes proprietes electromecaniques et une temperature de Curie elevee (1200°C), le niobate de lithium (LiNbO 3) est un bon candidat. Mais certaines etudes affirment que des processus chimiques tels que l'apparition de conductivite ionique ou l'emergence d'une nouvelle phase ne permettent pas son utilisation dans les transducteurs ultrasons au-dessus de 600°C. Cependant, d'autres etudes plus recentes ont montre qu'il pouvait generer des ultrasons jusqu'a 1000°C et qu'aucune conductivite n'etait visible. Une hypothese a donc emerge : une conductivite ionique est presente dans le niobate de lithium a haute temperature (>500°C) mais elle n'affecte que faiblement ses proprietes a hautes frequences (>100 kHz). Une caracterisation du niobate de lithium a haute temperature est donc necessaire afin de verifier cette hypothese. Pour cela, la methode par resonance a ete employee. Elle permet une caracterisation de la plupart des coefficients electromecaniques avec une simple spectroscopie d'impedance electrochimique et un modele reliant de facon explicite les proprietes au spectre d'impedance. Il s'agit de trouver les coefficients du modele permettant de superposer au mieux le modele avec les mesures experimentales. Un banc experimental a ete realise permettant de controler la temperature des echantillons et de mesurer leur impedance electrochimique. Malheureusement, les modeles actuellement utilises pour la methode par resonance sont imprecis en presence de couplages entre les modes de vibration. Cela implique de posseder plusieurs echantillons de differentes formes afin d'isoler chaque mode principal de vibration. De plus, ces modeles ne prennent pas bien en compte les harmoniques et modes en cisaillement. C'est pourquoi un nouveau modele analytique couvrant tout le spectre frequentiel a ete developpe afin de predire les resonances en cisaillement, les harmoniques et les couplages entre les modes. Neanmoins, certains modes de resonances et certains couplages ne sont toujours pas modelises. La caracterisation d'echantillons carres a pu etre menee jusqu'a 750°C. Les resultats confirment le caractere prometteur du niobate de lithium. Les coefficients piezoelectriques sont stables en fonction de la temperature et l'elasticite et la permittivite ont le comportement attendu. Un effet thermoelectrique ayant un effet similaire a de la conductivite ionique a ete observe ce qui ne permet pas de quantifier l'impact de ce dernier. Bien que des etudes complementaires soient necessaires, l'intensite des resonances a 750°C semble indiquer que le niobate de lithium peut etre utilise pour des applications ultrasons a hautes frequences (>100 kHz).

Extensive diversity in the allelic frequency of Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface proteins and glutamate-rich protein in rural and urban settings of southwestern Nigeria.

PubMed

Funwei, Roland I; Thomas, Bolaji N; Falade, Catherine O; Ojurongbe, Olusola

2018-01-02

Nigeria carries a high burden of malaria which makes continuous surveillance for current information on genetic diversity imperative. In this study, the merozoite surface proteins (msp-1, msp-2) and glutamate-rich protein (glurp) of Plasmodium falciparum collected from two communities representing rural and urban settings in Ibadan, southwestern Nigeria were analysed. A total of 511 febrile children, aged 3-59 months, whose parents/guardians provided informed consent, were recruited into the study. Capillary blood was obtained for malaria rapid diagnostic test, thick blood smears for parasite count and blood spots on filter paper for molecular analysis. Three-hundred and nine samples were successfully genotyped for msp-1, msp-2 and glurp genes. The allelic distribution of the three genes was not significantly different in the rural and urban communities. R033 and 3D7 were the most prevalent alleles in both rural and urban communities for msp-1 and msp-2, respectively. Eleven of glurp RII region genotypes, coded I-XII, with sizes ranging from 500 to 1100 base pairs were detected in the rural setting. Genotype XI (1000-1050 bp) had the highest prevalence of 41.5 and 38.5% in rural and urban settings, respectively. Overall, 82.1 and 70.0% of samples had multiclonal infection with msp-1 gene resulting in a mean multiplicity of infection (MOI) of 2.8 and 2.6 for rural and urban samples, respectively. Msp-1 and msp-2 genes displayed higher levels of diversity and higher MOI rates than the glurp gene. Significant genetic diversity was observed between rural and urban parasite populations in Ibadan, southwestern Nigeria. The results of this study show that malaria transmission intensity in these regions is still high. No significant difference was observed between rural and urban settings, except for a completely different msp-1 allele, compared to previous reports, thereby confirming the changing face of malaria transmission in these communities. This study provides important baseline information required for monitoring the impact of malaria elimination efforts in this region and data points useful in revising current protocols.

Genetic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum populations in southeast and western Myanmar.

PubMed

Soe, Than Naing; Wu, Yanrui; Tun, Myo Win; Xu, Xin; Hu, Yue; Ruan, Yonghua; Win, Aung Ye Naung; Nyunt, Myat Htut; Mon, Nan Cho Nwe; Han, Kay Thwe; Aye, Khin Myo; Morris, James; Su, Pincan; Yang, Zhaoqing; Kyaw, Myat Phone; Cui, Liwang

2017-07-04

The genetic diversity of malaria parasites reflects the complexity and size of the parasite populations. This study was designed to explore the genetic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum populations collected from two southeastern areas (Shwekyin and Myawaddy bordering Thailand) and one western area (Kyauktaw bordering Bangladesh) of Myanmar. A total of 267 blood samples collected from patients with acute P. falciparum infections during 2009 and 2010 were used for genotyping at the merozoite surface protein 1 (Msp1), Msp2 and glutamate-rich protein (Glurp) loci. One hundred and eighty four samples were successfully genotyped at three genes. The allelic distributions of the three genes were all significantly different among three areas. MAD20 and 3D7 were the most prevalent alleles in three areas for Msp1 and Msp2, respectively. The Glurp allele with a bin size of 700-750 bp was the most prevalent both in Shwekyin and Myawaddy, whereas two alleles with bin sizes of 800-850 bp and 900-1000 bp were the most prevalent in the western site Kyauktaw. Overall, 73.91% of samples contained multiclonal infections, resulting in a mean multiplicity of infection (MOI) of 1.94. Interestingly, the MOI level presented a rising trend with the order of Myawaddy, Kyauktaw and Shwekyin, which also paralleled with the increasing frequencies of Msp1 RO33 and Msp2 FC27 200-250 bp alleles. Msp1 and Msp2 genes displayed higher levels of diversity and higher MOI rates than Glurp. PCR revealed four samples (two from Shwekyin and two from Myawaddy) with mixed infections of P. falciparum and P. vivax. This study genotyped parasite clinical samples from two southeast regions and one western state of Myanmar at the Msp1, Msp2 and Glurp loci, which revealed high levels of genetic diversity and mixed-strain infections of P. falciparum populations at these sites. The results indicated that malaria transmission intensity in these regions remained high and more strengthened control efforts are needed. The genotypic data provided baseline information for monitoring the impacts of malaria elimination efforts in the region.

Evaluation of a Plasmodium-Specific Carrier Protein To Enhance Production of Recombinant Pfs25, a Leading Transmission-Blocking Vaccine Candidate.

PubMed

Parzych, Elizabeth M; Miura, Kazutoyo; Ramanathan, Aarti; Long, Carole A; Burns, James M

2018-01-01

Challenges with the production and suboptimal immunogenicity of malaria vaccine candidates have slowed the development of a Plasmodium falciparum multiantigen vaccine. Attempting to resolve these issues, we focused on the use of highly immunogenic merozoite surface protein 8 (MSP8) as a vaccine carrier protein. Previously, we showed that a genetic fusion of the C-terminal 19-kDa fragment of merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1 19 ) to P. falciparum MSP8 ( Pf MSP8) facilitated antigen production and folding and the induction of neutralizing antibodies to conformational B cell epitopes of MSP1 19 Here, using the Pf MSP1/8 construct, we further optimized the recombinant Pf MSP8 (r Pf MSP8) carrier by the introduction of two cysteine-to-serine substitutions (CΔS) to improve the yield of the monomeric product. We then sought to test the broad applicability of this approach using the transmission-blocking vaccine candidate Pf s25. The production of r Pf s25-based vaccines has presented challenges. Antibodies directed against the four highly constrained epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like domains of Pf s25 block sexual-stage development in mosquitoes. The sequence encoding mature Pf s25 was codon harmonized for expression in Escherichia coli We produced a r Pf s25- Pf MSP8 fusion protein [r Pf s25/8(CΔS)] as well as unfused, mature r Pf s25. r Pf s25 was purified with a modest yield but required the incorporation of refolding protocols to obtain a proper conformation. In comparison, chimeric r Pf s25/8(CΔS) was expressed and easily purified, with the Pf s25 domain bearing the proper conformation without renaturation. Both antigens were immunogenic in rabbits, inducing IgG that bound native Pf s25 and exhibited potent transmission-reducing activity. These data further demonstrate the utility of Pf MSP8 as a parasite-specific carrier protein to enhance the production of complex malaria vaccine targets. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Microbiology.

Growth, nutrient digestibility, ileal digesta viscosity, and energy metabolizability of growing turkeys fed diets containing malted sorghum sprouts supplemented with enzyme or yeast.

PubMed

Oke, F O; Oso, A O; Oduguwa, O O; Jegede, A V; Südekum, K-H; Fafiolu, A O; Pirgozliev, V

2017-06-01

Growth, apparent nutrient digestibility, ileal digesta viscosity, and energy metabolizability of growing turkeys fed diets containing malted sorghum sprouts (MSP) supplemented with enzyme or yeast were investigated using 120, 28-day-old male turkeys. Six treatments were laid out in a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments with three dietary inclusion levels of MSP (0, 50, and 100 g/kg) and supplemented with 200 mg/kg yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) or 200 mg/kg of a commercial enzyme. The experiment lasted for the starter (day 28-56) and grower phases (day 57-84) of the birds. Each treatment group consisted of 20 turkeys replicated four times with five birds each. Data were analysed using analysis of variance while polynomial contrast was used to determine the trends (linear and quadratic) of MSP inclusion levels. Irrespective of dietary supplementation with enzyme or yeast, final body weight (BW), total BW gain, and feed intake for turkey poults from day 29-56 was reduced (p < 0.05) with increasing inclusion level of MSP. Dietary supplementation with yeast resulted in increased (p < 0.05) feed intake while enzyme supplementation improved (p < 0.05) feed conversion ratio of the poults. Turkeys fed enzyme-supplemented MSP diets had higher (p < 0.05) BW gain than their counterparts fed yeast-supplemented MSP diets. Apparent ash digestibility reduced linearly (p < 0.05) with increasing inclusion levels of MSP. Apparent metabolizable energy (AME) did not vary significantly (p > 0.05) with MSP inclusion levels. Enzyme supplementation reduced (p < 0.05) ileal viscosity but had no effect (p > 0.05) on AME. Inclusion of MSP resulted in poor growth performance. This confirms earlier studies that utilization of MSP by poultry is rather poor. Supplementation with enzyme or yeast did not lead to any appreciable improvement in performance of turkeys in this study. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition © 2016 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Headache: an important factor associated with muscle soreness/pain at the two-year follow-up point among patients with major depressive disorder.

PubMed

Hung, Ching-I; Liu, Chia-Yih; Yang, Ching-Hui; Wang, Shuu-Jiun

2016-01-01

No study has compared the associations of headache, anxiety, and depression at baseline with muscle soreness or pain (MS/P) at baseline and at the two-year follow-up point among outpatients with major depressive disorder (MDD). This study aimed to investigate the above issue. This study enrolled 155 outpatients with MDD at baseline, and 131 attended a two-year follow-up appointment. At baseline, migraine was diagnosed based on the International Classification of Headache Disorders, 2(nd) edition. MDD and anxiety disorders were diagnosed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV-TR. The visual analog scale was used to evaluate the intensities of headache and MS/P in the neck, shoulder, back, upper limbs, and lower limbs. Depression and anxiety were evaluated using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Multiple linear regressions were used to compare the associations of these factors with MS/P. Compared with anxiety disorders, migraine was more strongly associated with MS/P in all areas at baseline and in the upper and lower limbs at follow-up. Headache intensity at baseline was the factor most strongly associated with MS/P in all areas at baseline and follow-up after controlling for depression and anxiety. Headache intensity at baseline predicted MS/P at baseline and follow-up. Migraine and headache intensity are important factors related to MS/P at baseline and follow-up among patients with MDD. Integrating depression and headache treatment might be indicated to improve MS/P.

[Musculoskeletal pain in Central American workers: results of the First Survey on Working Conditions and Health in Central America].

PubMed

Rojas, Marianela; Gimeno, David; Vargas-Prada, Sergio; Benavides, Fernando G

2015-08-01

Examine the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain (MSP) in the six Spanish-speaking countries of Central America using a single standardized instrument, the First Survey on Working Conditions and Health in Central America in workers from all manual and non-manual labor sectors, using social security coverage as an indicator of formal versus informal employment. The workers (n = 12 024) were surveyed in their homes. The age-adjusted prevalence of MSP during the previous month was calculated for pain in the back (upper, or cervical; middle, or thoracic; and lower, or lumbar) and arm joints (shoulder, elbow, and wrist). Prevalence was estimated by sex, occupation (manual or non-manual), economic sector (agriculture, industry, or services), and social security coverage. Poisson regression models were used to calculate the prevalence rates and 95% confidence intervals, with stratification by country and anatomical site. By sites, the age-adjusted prevalence of cervical-dorsal MSP was the highest, especially in El Salvador (47.8%) and Nicaragua (45.9%), and lumbar MSP was less prevalent, especially in Panama (12.8%) and Guatemala (14.8%). After additional adjustments, the prevalence of MSP was higher in women and manual workers for all the sites and in all the countries. There were no differences in MSP in terms of social security coverage or sector of economic activity. The high prevalence of MSP in Central America, regardless of sector of activity or social security coverage, indicates that the prevention of MSP should be a priority in occupational health programs in low- and middle-income countries, especially for women and manual workers.

Impact of the effect of economic crisis and the targeted motorcycle safety programme on motorcycle-related accidents, injuries and fatalities in Malaysia.

PubMed

Law, T H; Umar, R S Radin; Zulkaurnain, S; Kulanthayan, S

2005-03-01

In 1997, a Motorcycle Safety Programme (MSP) was introduced to address the motorcycle-related accident problem. The MSP was specifically targeted at motorcyclists. In addition to the MSP, the recent economic recession has significantly contributed to a reduction of traffic-related incidents. This paper examines the effects of the recent economic crisis and the MSP on motorcycle-related accidents, casualties and fatalities in Malaysia. The autocorrelation integrated moving average model with transfer function was used to evaluate the overall effects of the interventions. The variables used in developing the model were gross domestic product and MSPs. The analysis found a 25% reduction in the number of motorcycle-related accidents, a 27% reduction in motorcycle casualties and a 38% reduction in motorcycle fatalities after the implementation of MSP. Findings indicate that the MSP has been one of the effective measures in reducing motorcycle safety problems in Malaysia. Apart from that, the performance of the country's economy was also found to be significant in explaining the number of motorcycle-related accidents, casualties and fatalities in Malaysia.

Characterization of recombinant MSP5 Anaplasma marginale Havana isolate

PubMed Central

Corona, B.; Machado, H.; Rodríguez, M.; Martínez, S.

2009-01-01

Anaplasma marginale is the causative agent of bovine anaplasmosis, a disease of worldwide economic importance. Major surface proteins (MSPs) are involved in host-pathogen and tick-pathogen interactions and they have been used as markers for the genetic characterization of A. marginale strains and phylogenetic studies. The major surface protein 5 (MSP5) is highly conserved in the genus Anaplasma and in all isolates of A. marginale. The aim of the present work was to carry out the cloning, sequencing and characterization of the recombinant MSP5 Anaplasma marginale Havana isolate. The sequence of the msp5 gene of Anaplasma marginale Havana isolate with a size of 633 pb was determined (Acc. No. AY527217). This gene was cloned into pRSETB vector and expressed in Escherichia coli. The MSP5 protein was recognized by the monoclonal antibody ANAF16C1 and it showed a high similitude percent with the gene sequence described for other Anaplasma marginale isolates. These data are very important for the development of a diagnostic test for A. marginale using the MSP5 recombinant protein. PMID:24031449

Exploring anti-correlated radio/X-ray modes in transitional millisecond pulsars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jaodand, Amruta

2017-09-01

Recently, using coordinated VLA+Chandra observations, Bogdanov et al.(2017) have uncovered a stunning anti-correlation in the LMXB state of the tMSP PSR J1023+0038. They see that radio luminosity consistently peaks during the X-ray `low' luminosity modes. Also, we have found a promising candidate tMSP, 3FGL J1544-1125(J1544) (Bogdanov and Halpern 2015; currently only tMSP candidate apart from J1023 in a persistent LMXB state). Using VLA and simultaneous Swift observations we see that it lies on the proposed tMSP track in radio vs. X-ray luminosity (L_ R/L_X) diagram. This finding strengthens its classification as a tMSP and provides an excellent opportunity to a)determine universality of radio/X-ray brightness anti-correlatio and b)understand jet/outflow formation in tMSPs.

Capital intensity of photovoltaics manufacturing: Barrier to scale and opportunity for innovation

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

Powell, Douglas M.; Fu, Ran; Horowitz, Kelsey

In this study, using a bottom-up cost model, we assess the impact of initial factory capital expenditure (capex) on photovoltaic (PV) module minimum sustainable price (MSP) and industry-wide trends. We find capex to have two important impacts on PV manufacturing. First, capex strongly influences the per-unit MSP of a c-Si module: we calculate that the capex-related elements sum to 22% of MSP for an integrated wafer, cell, and module manufacturer. This fraction provides a significant opportunity to reduce MSP toward the U.S. DOE SunShot module price target through capex innovation.

Capital intensity of photovoltaics manufacturing: Barrier to scale and opportunity for innovation

DOE PAGES

Powell, Douglas M.; Fu, Ran; Horowitz, Kelsey; ...

2015-09-07

In this study, using a bottom-up cost model, we assess the impact of initial factory capital expenditure (capex) on photovoltaic (PV) module minimum sustainable price (MSP) and industry-wide trends. We find capex to have two important impacts on PV manufacturing. First, capex strongly influences the per-unit MSP of a c-Si module: we calculate that the capex-related elements sum to 22% of MSP for an integrated wafer, cell, and module manufacturer. This fraction provides a significant opportunity to reduce MSP toward the U.S. DOE SunShot module price target through capex innovation.

The evolution and diversity of a low complexity vaccine candidate, merozoite surface protein 9 (MSP-9), in Plasmodium vivax and closely related species.

PubMed

Chenet, Stella M; Pacheco, M Andreína; Bacon, David J; Collins, William E; Barnwell, John W; Escalante, Ananias A

2013-12-01

The merozoite surface protein-9 (MSP-9) has been considered a target for an anti-malarial vaccine since it is one of many proteins involved in the erythrocyte invasion, a critical step in the parasite life cycle. Orthologs encoding this antigen have been found in all known species of Plasmodium parasitic to primates. In order to characterize and investigate the extent and maintenance of MSP-9 genetic diversity, we analyzed DNA sequences of the following malaria parasite species: Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium reichenowi, Plasmodium chabaudi, Plasmodium yoelii, Plasmodium berghei, Plasmodium coatneyi, Plasmodium gonderi, Plasmodium knowlesi, Plasmodium inui, Plasmodium simiovale, Plasmodium fieldi, Plasmodium cynomolgi and Plasmodium vivax and evaluated the signature of natural selection in all MSP-9 orthologs. Our findings suggest that the gene encoding MSP-9 is under purifying selection in P. vivax and closely related species. We further explored how selection affected different regions of MSP-9 by comparing the polymorphisms in P. vivax and P. falciparum, and found contrasting patterns between these two species that suggest differences in functional constraints. This observation implies that the MSP-9 orthologs in human parasites may interact differently with the host immune response. Thus, studies carried out in one species cannot be directly translated into the other. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Work characteristics predict the development of multi-site musculoskeletal pain.

PubMed

Oakman, Jodi; de Wind, Astrid; van den Heuvel, Swenne G; van der Beek, Allard J

2017-10-01

Musculoskeletal pain in more than one body region is common and a barrier to sustaining employment. We aimed to examine whether work characteristics predict the development of multi-site pain (MSP), and to determine differences in work-related predictors between age groups. This study is based on 5136 employees from the Study on Transitions in Employment, Ability and Motivation (STREAM) who reported no MSP at baseline. Measures included physical, emotional, mental, and psychological job demands, social support and autonomy. Predictors of MSP were studied by logistic regression analyses. Univariate and multivariate analyses with age stratification (45-49, 50-54, 55-59, and 60-64 years) were done to explore differences between age groups. All work characteristics with the exception of autonomy were predictive of the development of MSP, with odds ratios varying from 1.21 (95% CI 1.04-1.40) for mental job demands to 1.63 (95% CI 1.43-1.86) for physical job demands. No clear pattern of age-related differences in the predictors of MSP emerged, with the exception of social support, which was predictive of MSP developing in all age groups except for the age group 60-64 years. Adverse physical and psychosocial work characteristics are associated with MSP. Organisations need to comprehensively assess work environments to ensure that all relevant workplace hazards, physical and psychosocial, are identified and then controlled for across all age groups.

Mathematically Derived Body Volume and Risk of Musculoskeletal Pain among Housewives in North India

PubMed Central

Bihari, Vipin; Kesavachandran, Chandrasekharan Nair; Mathur, Neeraj; Pangtey, Balram Singh; Kamal, Ritul; Pathak, Manoj Kumar; Srivastava, Anup Kumar

2013-01-01

Background Global Burden of Disease Study 2010 demonstrates the impact of musculoskeletal diseases as the second greatest cause of disability globally in all regions of the world. The study was conducted to determine the role of mathematically derived body volume (BV), body volume index (BVI), body mass index (BMI), body surface area (BSA) and body fat % (BF %) on musculoskeletal pain (MSP) among housewives in National Capital Region (NCR). Methods A cross sectional study was undertaken among 495 housewives from Gurgaon and New Okhla Industrial Development Area (NOIDA) in National Capital Region (NCR), New Delhi, India. The study includes questionnaire survey, clinical examination and body composition monitoring among housewives. Results A significantly higher BMI, BVI, BV and BSA were observed in subjects with MSP as compared to those who had no MSP. This was also true for subjects with pain in knee for BMI category for overweight. Subjects with pain in limbs had significantly high BMI and BVI as compared to subjects with no MSP. A significant positive correlation of age with BMI, BVI, BV and BSA was observed among subjects having no MSP denoting a direct relationship of age and these body factors. Conclusions The prevalence of MSP among housewives is associated with increasing age, BMI and BVI. This can possibly be used for formulating a strategy for prevention of MSP. PMID:24223218

An Auction-Based Spectrum Leasing Mechanism for Mobile Macro-Femtocell Networks of IoT

PubMed Central

Chen, Xin; Xing, Lei; Qiu, Tie; Li, Zhuo

2017-01-01

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a vision of the upcoming society. It can provide pervasive communication between two or more entities using 4G-LTE (Long Term Evolution) communication technology. In 4G-LTE networks, there are two important problems: helping manage the spectrum demands of IoT devices and achieving much more revenue with the limited resource. This paper proposes a pricing framework to investigate the spectrum leasing in mobile heterogeneous networks with single macrocell and multiple femtocells. We modeled the leasing procedure between the macrocell service provider (MSP) and femtocell holders (FHs) as an auction to motivate the MSP to lease its spectrum resource. All FHs act as the bidders, and the monopolist MSP acts as the auctioneer. In the auction, FHs submit their bids to rent the spectrum resource so that they can make a profit by selling it to their subscribers. The MSP determines the spectrum leasing amount and chooses the winning FHs by solving the dynamic programming-based 0–1 knapsack problem. In our proposed framework, we focus on the spectrum pricing strategy and revenue maximization of the MSP. The simulation results show that the proposed scheme provides effective motivation for the MSP to lease the spectrum to FHs, and both the MSP and FHs can benefit from spectrum leasing. PMID:28212317

Investigation of NO interaction on Rh/doped TiO2-based automotive catalyst using combined transient diffuse reflectance Fourier transform infrared and mass spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chafik, T.; Ouassini, A.; Verykios, X. E.

1998-07-01

The interaction of NO with Rh supported on W+6 doped TiO2 has been investigated by coupling transient diffuse reflectance Fourier transform Infrared spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The experiments were carried out in dynamic conditions (under reactant flow and at temperature reaction) at atmospheric pressure. By comparing the results obtained with undoped Rh/TiO2 and Rh/TiO2(W6+) catalysts, the analytical approach used permitted to emphasis the effect of carrier doping, with respect to the elementary steps and surface intermediates involved in NO interaction process. It was found that W6+-doping of TiO2 promotes significantly the formation of Rh-NO- species and enhances the thermal stability of Rh-NO+ on Rh/TiO2 (W6+) surfaces. This leads to a drastic increase in the selectivity of NO decomposition reaction towards N2 formation, whereas the N2O yield decreases significantly. L'intéraction de NO sur un catalyseur à base de rhodium supporté sur TiO2 dopé par le tungstène W6+ a été étudiée en régime transitoire par couplage de la spectroscopie Infrarouge Diffuse à Transformée de Fourier (DRIFT) et la spectrométrie de masse. Ces études ont été effectuées dans des conditions dynamiques (sous flux de réactifs gazeux et à la température de la réaction) à la pression atmosphérique. La comparaison des études menées avec des catalyseurs non dopé (Rh/TiO2) et dopé (Rh/TiO2(W6+)) a permis de mettre en évidence l'influence du dopage du support catalytique sur la nature des intermédiaires superficiels et les étapes élémentaires intervenant dans le processus d'interaction de NO avec ces solides. Il a été montré que le dopage de TiO2 par W6+ accroît la formation des espèces Rh-NO- et la stabilité thermique des espèces Rh-NO+ sur Rh/TiO2(W6+). Ceci est à l'origine de l'augmentation de la sélectivité de la conversion de NO en N2 suite à la diminution considérable de la quantité N2O formée.

The effect of a joint communication campaign on multiple sex partners in Mozambique: the role of psychosocial/ideational factors.

PubMed

Figueroa, Maria Elena; Kincaid, D Lawrence; Hurley, Emily A

2014-01-01

Mozambique is one of the countries in sub-Saharan Africa most affected by the HIV epidemic. Multiple and concurrent sexual partnerships (MSP/CP) have been recognized as one of the key drivers in the rapid spread of HIV in the region. Though HIV prevention programs have been successful in increasing condom use and HIV testing, reducing the practice of MSP/CP has been more difficult. Grounding their interventions in social and behavior change theory, four organizations in Mozambique joined efforts to implement a year-long, multimedia national campaign for HIV prevention with emphasis on the reduction of MSP/CP. Evaluating its impact and identifying the factors that hinder or contribute to its success are critical to building effective programs in the future. With data from a 2011 population-based survey of 1427 sexually active women and men, multivariate causal attribution (MCA) analysis was used to estimate the impact of the campaign in the four regions of Mozambique with the highest levels of HIV prevalence. The analysis tested the psychosocial pathways through which the campaign was expected to affect MSP. The results indicate that exposure (recall) was high; 81.2% of the respondents could recall one or more of the communication campaign components. The campaign had a significant indirect impact on MSP through its negative effect on attitudes that favor MSP, and its positive effect on knowledge and discussion of MSP risk with sex partner. This study demonstrates the value of identifying appropriate psychosocial factors and using them to design the campaign communication strategy, and evaluate the causal pathways by which it has an impact. The campaign was successful in changing MSP behavior by working through two psychosocial variables.

Allelic Diversity and Geographical Distribution of the Gene Encoding Plasmodium falciparum Merozoite Surface Protein-3 in Thailand

PubMed Central

Sawaswong, Vorthon; Simpalipan, Phumin; Siripoon, Napaporn; Harnyuttanakorn, Pongchai; Pattaradilokrat, Sittiporn

2015-01-01

Merozoite surface proteins (MSPs) of malaria parasites play critical roles during the erythrocyte invasion and so are potential candidates for malaria vaccine development. However, because MSPs are often under strong immune selection, they can exhibit extensive genetic diversity. The gene encoding the merozoite surface protein-3 (MSP-3) of Plasmodium falciparum displays 2 allelic types, K1 and 3D7. In Thailand, the allelic frequency of the P. falciparum msp-3 gene was evaluated in a single P. falciparum population in Tak at the Thailand and Myanmar border. However, no study has yet looked at the extent of genetic diversity of the msp-3 gene in P. falciparum populations in other localities. Here, we genotyped the msp-3 alleles of 63 P. falciparum samples collected from 5 geographical populations along the borders of Thailand with 3 neighboring countries (Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia). Our study indicated that the K1 and 3D7 alleles coexisted, but at different proportions in different Thai P. falciparum populations. K1 was more prevalent in populations at the Thailand-Myanmar and Thailand-Cambodia borders, whilst 3D7 was more prevalent at the Thailand-Laos border. Global analysis of the msp-3 allele frequencies revealed that proportions of K1 and 3D7 alleles of msp-3 also varied in different continents, suggesting the divergence of malaria parasite populations. In conclusion, the variation in the msp-3 allelic patterns of P. falciparum in Thailand provides fundamental knowledge for inferring the P. falciparum population structure and for the best design of msp-3 based malaria vaccines. PMID:25925176

Allelic Diversity and Geographical Distribution of the Gene Encoding Plasmodium falciparum Merozoite Surface Protein-3 in Thailand.

PubMed

Sawaswong, Vorthon; Simpalipan, Phumin; Siripoon, Napaporn; Harnyuttanakorn, Pongchai; Pattaradilokrat, Sittiporn

2015-04-01

Merozoite surface proteins (MSPs) of malaria parasites play critical roles during the erythrocyte invasion and so are potential candidates for malaria vaccine development. However, because MSPs are often under strong immune selection, they can exhibit extensive genetic diversity. The gene encoding the merozoite surface protein-3 (MSP-3) of Plasmodium falciparum displays 2 allelic types, K1 and 3D7. In Thailand, the allelic frequency of the P. falciparum msp-3 gene was evaluated in a single P. falciparum population in Tak at the Thailand and Myanmar border. However, no study has yet looked at the extent of genetic diversity of the msp-3 gene in P. falciparum populations in other localities. Here, we genotyped the msp-3 alleles of 63 P. falciparum samples collected from 5 geographical populations along the borders of Thailand with 3 neighboring countries (Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia). Our study indicated that the K1 and 3D7 alleles coexisted, but at different proportions in different Thai P. falciparum populations. K1 was more prevalent in populations at the Thailand-Myanmar and Thailand-Cambodia borders, whilst 3D7 was more prevalent at the Thailand-Laos border. Global analysis of the msp-3 allele frequencies revealed that proportions of K1 and 3D7 alleles of msp-3 also varied in different continents, suggesting the divergence of malaria parasite populations. In conclusion, the variation in the msp-3 allelic patterns of P. falciparum in Thailand provides fundamental knowledge for inferring the P. falciparum population structure and for the best design of msp-3 based malaria vaccines.

Joint hypermobility, growing pain and obesity are mutually exclusive as causes of musculoskeletal pain in schoolchildren.

PubMed

Sperotto, Francesca; Balzarin, Marta; Parolin, Mattia; Monteforte, Nadia; Vittadello, Fabio; Zulian, Francesco

2014-01-01

Chronic musculoskeletal pain (MSP) is common in children and can be due to several non-inflammatory conditions such as the benign joint hypermobility syndrome (BJHS), and growing pains (GP). We evaluated frequency, risk factors and causes of MSP in a large cohort of healthy schoolchildren. We conducted a cross sectional study in a cohort of healthy schoolchildren, aged 8-13 years, by collecting information and performing a physical examination. The anamnesis was focused on family history for MSP, presence and sites of MSP interfering with the regular daily activities during the previous 6 months and presence of GP. Physical examination included body mass index, pubertal stage and musculoskeletal examination focused on the presence of hypermobility according to the Beighton criteria. Two hundred and eighty-nine schoolchildren, 143 females and 146 males, participated in the study. Chronic MSP occurred in 30.4% of subjects, BJHS occurred in 13.2%. GJH was more frequent in symptomatic subjects than in asymptomatic ones (p=0.054). Symptomatic subjects were more frequently pre-pubertal than pubertal (p=0.006). In general, GP, BJHS and obesity (OB) were mutually exclusive as causes of MSP as, among 88 symptomatic subjects, 52.3% had GP, 40.9% presented BJHS, 4.5% were OB and only two (2.3%) presented both BJHS and OB. After puberty, GP persisted in 66.7%, BJHS in 26.7% and in association with OB in 6.7%. Approximately one third of schoolchildren suffer from MSP. BJHS, GP and OB are mutually exclusive as causes of MSP in schoolchildren. Pubertal stage plays an important role in the physiopathology of this condition.

A Human-in-the-Loop Evaluation of Multi-Sector Planning in Mixed Equipage Airspace (MSP III)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Nancy; Prevot, Tom; Kessell, Angela; Homola, Jeff; Lee, Hwasoo; Mercer, Joey; Brasil, Connie; Mainini, Matt; Lee, Paul

2011-01-01

A human-in-the-loop (HITL) simulation was conducted in May 2010 to determine the feasibility and value 01 conducting multi-sector planning (MSP) operations in a mixed equipage environment. Aircraft were categorized as equipped or unequipped based on the presence or absence of an air-ground data communications (Data Comm) capability for receiving auto-loadable clearances and transfer of communication messages from the air navigation service provider (ANSP). The purpose of the study was to determine the feasibility and possible benefits of introducing multi-sector planning in a mixed equipage context, or whether Data Comm equipage was required for MSP operations. Each test scenario presented one of three different equipage levels to the controllers (10%, 50% or 90% equipped aircraft), so that the operational impact of different equipage levels could be observed. Operational feasibility assessment addressed two related questions: (1) are MSP operations feasible for unequipped aircraft, and (2) are they feasible in a mixed equipage context. Similarly, two categories of potential benefits were explored: (1) system performance improvements (e.g., throughput, workload) associated with MSP at different equipage levels, and (2) the possibility of providing differential service for equipage through MSP operations. Tool requirements (for both planning and controller stations), as well as planning and coordination procedures - within facility (traffic management unit/operational area) and within sector (R-Side/D-Side) - were two other topics addressed in the study. Overall, results suggested that MSP operations were feasible in a mixed equipage environment and that the tools were effective with both equipped and unequipped aircraft. Using the MSP tools, traffic management coordinators were able to manage controller task load, effectively balancing throughput with complexity and controller task load at each of the three equipage levels tested.

PCR/RFLP-based analysis of genetically distinct Plasmodium vivax population of Pvmsp-3α and Pvmsp-3β genes in Pakistan.

PubMed

Khan, Shahid Niaz; Khan, Asif; Khan, Sanaullah; Ayaz, Sultan; Attaullah, Sobia; Khan, Jabbar; Khan, Muhammad Asim; Ali, Ijaz; Shah, Abdul Haleem

2014-09-09

Plasmodium vivax is one of the widespread human malarial parasites accounting for 75% of malaria epidemics. However, there is no baseline information about the status and nature of genetic variation of Plasmodium species circulating in various parts of Pakistan. The present study was aimed at observing the molecular epidemiology and genetic variation of Plasmodium vivax by analysing its merozoite surface protein-3α (msp-3α) and merozoite surface protein-3β (msp-3β) genes, by using suballele, species-specific, combined nested PCR/RFLP detection techniques. A total of 230 blood samples from suspected subjects tested slide positive for vivax malaria were collected from Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan during the period May 2012 to December 2013. Combined nested PCR/RFLP technique was conducted using Pvmsp-3α and Pvmsp-3β genetic markers to detect extent of genetic variation in clinical isolates of P. vivax in the studied areas of Pakistan. By PCR, P. vivax, 202/230 (87.82%), was found to be widely distributed in the studied areas. PCR/RFLP analysis showed a high range of allelic variations for both msp-3α and msp-3β genetic markers of P. vivax, i.e., 21 alleles for msp-3α and 19 for msp-3β. Statistically a significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) was observed in the genetic diversity of the suballelic variants of msp-3α and msp-3β genes of P. vivax. It is concluded that P. vivax populations are highly polymorphic and diverse allelic variants of Pvmsp-3α and Pvmsp-3β are present in Pakistan.

Genetic polymorphism of merozoite surface protein-1 and merozoite surface protein-2 in Plasmodium falciparum isolates from Brazzaville, Republic of Congo

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background The characterization of malaria parasite populations circulating in an area is part of site characterization, as a basis for evaluating the impact of malaria interventions on genetic diversity, parasite species, and multiplicity of infection. The present study was aimed at analysing genetic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface proteins 1 and 2 (MSP-1 and MSP-2) and to determine the multiplicity of infection in clinical isolates collected from children living in the Southern district of Brazzaville in the Republic of Congo. Methods A total of 125 isolates from patients with uncomplicated malaria attending Terinkyo and Madibou health centres were collected between January and June 2005 while evaluating the therapeutic efficacy of amodiaquine-artesunate combination. DNA was extracted and msp-1 and msp-2 genes were genotyped using allele-specific nested-PCR. Results Out of 468 distinct fragments detected, 15 msp-1 and 20 msp-2 genotypes were identified. For the msp-1 gene, K1 family was the predominant allelic type carried alone or in association with RO33 and Mad20 types, whereas the 3D7 family was the most prevalent in the msp-2 gene. Overall, the mean multiplicity of infection was 2.2. Out of 125 samples, 104 (83%) harboured more than one parasite genotype. There was no statistical significant difference in the multiplicity of infection by either sex or age of patients. However, a statistically significant correlation was found between parasite densities and the number of genotypes. Conclusion Polymorphism in P. falciparum clinical isolates from Brazzaville was high and mainly of multiple clones. The basis for the positive association between parasite densities and multiplicity of infection is discussed. PMID:21936949

Zn influence on the plasticity of Cdo{0.96}Zn{0.04}Te

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Imhoff, D.; Zozime, A.; Triboulet, R.

1991-11-01

Compression tests were performed on CdTe and Cd{0.96}Zn{0.04}Te to elucidate the mechanism through which Zn inhibits dislocation formation and motion during CdTe crystal growth, thus leading to a decreasing of the dislocation density. Uniaxial deformation experiments performed with CdTe and CdZnTe at constant strain rate within a wide temperature range (0. 14;T_m le T le 0.87;T_m,;T_m = 1 365; K), have revealed a strong hardening effect of Zn within the whole temperature range. They also showed in CdZnTe a Portevin Le Chatelier effect between 770 K and 920 K confirmed by static strain aging experiments. Critical resolved shear stress (C.R.S.S.) values at T = 195; K and static strain aging results with CdZnTe point to size effect as the dominant interaction between Zn and dislocations. Thermal activation parameters were estimated in both materials. La déformation plastique a été utilisée comme approche des mécanismes par lesquels le zinc entrave le mouvement des dislocations au cours du processus de croissance cristalline de CdTe massif, réduisant ainsi la densité de dislocations. Les expériences de compression uniaxiale à vitesse constante, réalisées dans CdTe et CdZnTe entre 0,14 T_f et 0,87 T_f ont montré que le zinc est responsable d'un fort durcissement sur tout le domaine de températures étudié. Les expériences de déformation dans CdZnTe ont mis en évidence un phénomène du type Portevin Le Chatelier entre 770 K et 920 K, confirmé par des expériences de vieillissement statique. Les valeurs de scission critique tau_c à 195 K et les résultats des expériences de vieillissement statique dans CdZnTe sont compatibles avec un effet de taille dominant pour les interactions Zndislocations. Les paramètres d'activation thermique ont été estimés dans les deux matériaux.

L’annonce d’une déficience motrice cérébrale : Une relation de confiance à construire entre les parents, le personnel paramédical et les médecins

PubMed Central

Pelchat, Diane; Lefebvre, Hélène; Bouchard, Jean-Marie

2001-01-01

RÉSUMÉ : L’annonce d’une déficience motrice cérébrale et des incapacités qui en découlent est une situation difficile à vivre pour les parents et les dispensateurs de soins (personnel paramédical et médecins). Un examen de la documentation médicale démontre que depuis vingt ans, le nombre de parents insatisfaits n’a pas changé. L’étude de type qualitatif et exploratoire, effectuée à la demande de milieux de réadaptation, vise à décrire le processus d’annonce d’un diagnostic de déficience motrice cérébrale (DMC) à partir de l’expérience des différents acteurs en cause et à déterminer les facteurs qui facilitent ou compliquent la relation de confiance. Les résultats indiquent que les parents et les dispensateurs de soins vivent dans deux mondes de perception différents au moment de l’annonce, lesquels se rejoignent difficilement. Les parents sont envahis par le drame qu’ils vivent, tandis que les médecins sont concentrés sur le contenu à transmettre aux parents. Cette annonce provoque une importante incertitude qui bloque la communication entre les partenaires, mais elle pourrait devenir un stimulant à de nouvelles stratégies d’adaptation. PMID:20084263

Dysfonctionnements radio-induits du transport colique chez le rat

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

François, A.; Lebrun, F.; Ksas, B.; Aigueperse, J.; Gourmelon, P.; MacNaughton, W. K.; Griffiths, N. M.

1998-04-01

The symptom commonly associated with whole body irradiation is diarrhoea, a still quite obscure phenomenon, which leads to decreased chance of cure of irradiated people. The aim of this study was to provide evidence for dysfunction of intestinal water and electrolyte transport regulation by the enteric nervous system after exposure to ionising radiation. This study shows decreased capacity of enteric nervous system to influence colonic transport 3days after irradiation, correlated to a diminished response to a neurotransmitter: serotonin. Radio-induced diarrhea may result from epithelial structural injury but also from impaired regulatory processes of intestinal transport. L'un des symptômes majeurs d'une irradiation corporelle totale ou abdominale est l'apparition de diarrhées, dont les causes sont encore mal connues, et qui mettent en jeu le pronostique vital de l'individu irradié. Cette étude vise à mettre en évidence l'atteinte de la régulation du transport intestinal d'eau et d'électrolytes par les rayonnements ionisants. On observe une diminution de la capacité du système nerveux entérique à influencer le transport colique 3jours après irradiation, corrélée à une diminution de la réponse épithéliale à un neurotransmetteur : la sérotonine. Les diarrhées radio-induites résulteraient d'une atteinte structurelle de l'épithélium mais également des processus de régulation du transport intestinal.

Etude théorique et expérimentale d'un processus thermique dans un limiteur supraconducteur de courant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lévêque, J.; Netter, D.; Rezzoug, A.; Caron, J. P.

1995-12-01

The increasing of fault current level in electrical networks leads to a new interest for superconducting current limiters since 1983 when an ac wire with low losses has been developed. They are based on the natural transition from the superconducting state to the normal resistive state. In order to study the transition usual models are not sufficient. This paper deals with a numerical resolution of the electro-thermical coupled problem. Computed and experimental results are favorably compared. Some factors which affect the transition as well as the influence of the starting instant are studied. L'accroissement des courants de court-circuit dans les réseaux électriques a ravivé l'intérêt pour les limiteurs supraconducteurs de courant depuis la mise au point en 1983 de fil supraconducteur à faibles pertes en régime variable. Le principe de fonctionnement de ces limiteurs est fondé sur la transition vers l'état normal du matériau supraconducteur. Les modèles simplifiés s'avèrent insuffisants pour l'étude de la transition, une méthode de résolution numérique du problème électrothermique est donc faite. Les résultats des simulations sont comparés à ceux d'expérimentation puis deux études, l'une de facteurs influant sur la propagation de la transition, l'autre du type de court-circuit, sont menées.

Engineering Efforts and Opportunities in the National Science Foundation's Math and Science Partnerships (MSP) Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Pamela; Borrego, Maura

2013-01-01

The National Science Foundation's Math and Science Partnership (MSP) program (NSF, 2012) supports partnerships between K-12 school districts and institutions of higher education (IHEs) and has been funding projects to improve STEM education in K-12 since 2002. As of 2011, a total of 178 MSP projects have received support as part of a STEM…

Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; establishment of the Multi-State Plan Program for the Affordable Insurance Exchanges. Final rule.

PubMed

2014-02-24

The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is issuing a final rule implementing modifications to the Multi-State Plan (MSP) Program based on the experience of the Program to date. OPM established the MSP Program pursuant to the Affordable Care Act. This rule clarifies the approach used to enforce the applicable standards of the Affordable Care Act with respect to health insurance issuers that contract with OPM to offer MSP options; amends MSP standards related to coverage area, benefits, and certain contracting provisions under section 1334 of the Affordable Care Act; and makes non-substantive technical changes.

Manifold structure preservative for hyperspectral target detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Imani, Maryam

2018-05-01

A nonparametric method termed as manifold structure preservative (MSP) is proposed in this paper for hyperspectral target detection. MSP transforms the feature space of data to maximize the separation between target and background signals. Moreover, it minimizes the reconstruction error of targets and preserves the topological structure of data in the projected feature space. MSP does not need to consider any distribution for target and background data. So, it can achieve accurate results in real scenarios due to avoiding unreliable assumptions. The proposed MSP detector is compared to several popular detectors and the experiments on a synthetic data and two real hyperspectral images indicate the superior ability of it in target detection.

Genetic Diversity and Natural Selection in 42 kDa Region of Plasmodium vivax Merozoite Surface Protein-1 from China-Myanmar Endemic Border.

PubMed

Zhou, Xia; Tambo, Ernest; Su, Jing; Fang, Qiang; Ruan, Wei; Chen, Jun-Hu; Yin, Ming-Bo; Zhou, Xiao-Nong

2017-10-01

Plasmodium vivax merozoite surface protein-1 (PvMSP1) gene codes for a major malaria vaccine candidate antigen. However, its polymorphic nature represents an obstacle to the design of a protective vaccine. In this study, we analyzed the genetic polymorphism and natural selection of the C-terminal 42 kDa fragment within PvMSP1 gene (Pv MSP142) from 77 P. vivax isolates, collected from imported cases of China-Myanmar border (CMB) areas in Yunnan province and the inland cases from Anhui, Yunnan, and Zhejiang province in China during 2009-2012. Totally, 41 haplotypes were identified and 30 of them were new haplotypes. The differences between the rates of non-synonymous and synonymous mutations suggest that PvMSP142 has evolved under natural selection, and a high selective pressure preferentially acted on regions identified of PvMSP133. Our results also demonstrated that PvMSP142 of P. vivax isolates collected on China-Myanmar border areas display higher genetic polymorphisms than those collected from inland of China. Such results have significant implications for understanding the dynamic of the P. vivax population and may be useful information towards China malaria elimination campaign strategies.

Integration of fisheries into marine spatial planning: Quo vadis?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Janßen, Holger; Bastardie, Francois; Eero, Margit; Hamon, Katell G.; Hinrichsen, Hans-Harald; Marchal, Paul; Nielsen, J. Rasmus; Le Pape, Olivier; Schulze, Torsten; Simons, Sarah; Teal, Lorna R.; Tidd, Alex

2018-02-01

The relationship between fisheries and marine spatial planning (MSP) is still widely unsettled. While several scientific studies highlight the strong relation between fisheries and MSP, as well as ways in which fisheries could be included in MSP, the actual integration of fisheries into MSP often fails. In this article, we review the state of the art and latest progress in research on various challenges in the integration of fisheries into MSP. The reviewed studies address a wide range of integration challenges, starting with techniques to analyse where fishermen actually fish, assessing the drivers for fishermen's behaviour, seasonal dynamics and long-term spatial changes of commercial fish species under various anthropogenic pressures along their successive life stages, the effects of spatial competition on fisheries and projections on those spaces that might become important fishing areas in the future, and finally, examining how fisheries could benefit from MSP. This paper gives an overview of the latest developments on concepts, tools, and methods. It becomes apparent that the spatial and temporal dynamics of fish and fisheries, as well as the definition of spatial preferences, remain major challenges, but that an integration of fisheries is already possible today.

Differential requirement for cathepsin D for processing of the full length and C-terminal fragment of the malaria antigen MSP1.

PubMed

Tulone, Calogero; Sponaas, Anne-Marit; Raiber, Eun-Ang; Tabor, Alethea B; Langhorne, Jean; Chain, Benny M

2011-01-01

Merozoite Surface Protein 1 is expressed on the surface of malaria merozoites and is important for invasion of the malaria parasite into erythrocytes. MSP1-specific CD4 T cell responses and antibody can confer protective immunity in experimental models of malaria. In this study we explore the contributions of cathepsins D and E, two aspartic proteinases previously implicated in antigen processing, to generating MSP1 CD4 T-cell epitopes for presentation. The absence of cathepsin D, a late endosome/lysosomal enzyme, is associated with a reduced presentation of MSP1 both following in vitro processing of the epitope MSP1 from infected erythrocytes by bone marrow-derived dendritic cells, and following in vivo processing by splenic CD11c+ dendritic cells. By contrast, processing and presentation of the soluble recombinant protein fragment of MSP1 is unaffected by the absence of cathepsin D, but is inhibited when both cathepsin D and E are absent. The role of different proteinases in generating the CD4 T cell repertoire, therefore, depends on the context in which an antigen is introduced to the immune system.

Differential Requirement for Cathepsin D for Processing of the Full Length and C-Terminal Fragment of the Malaria Antigen MSP1

PubMed Central

Raiber, Eun-Ang; Tabor, Alethea B.; Langhorne, Jean; Chain, Benny M.

2011-01-01

Merozoite Surface Protein 1 is expressed on the surface of malaria merozoites and is important for invasion of the malaria parasite into erythrocytes. MSP1-specific CD4 T cell responses and antibody can confer protective immunity in experimental models of malaria. In this study we explore the contributions of cathepsins D and E, two aspartic proteinases previously implicated in antigen processing, to generating MSP1 CD4 T-cell epitopes for presentation. The absence of cathepsin D, a late endosome/lysosomal enzyme, is associated with a reduced presentation of MSP1 both following in vitro processing of the epitope MSP1 from infected erythrocytes by bone marrow-derived dendritic cells, and following in vivo processing by splenic CD11c+ dendritic cells. By contrast, processing and presentation of the soluble recombinant protein fragment of MSP1 is unaffected by the absence of cathepsin D, but is inhibited when both cathepsin D and E are absent. The role of different proteinases in generating the CD4 T cell repertoire, therefore, depends on the context in which an antigen is introduced to the immune system. PMID:22053177

Horizontal transfer of the msp130 gene supported the evolution of metazoan biomineralization.

PubMed

Ettensohn, Charles A

2014-05-01

It is widely accepted that biomineralized structures appeared independently in many metazoan clades during the Cambrian. How this occurred, and whether it involved the parallel co-option of a common set of biochemical and developmental pathways (i.e., a shared biomineralization "toolkit"), are questions that remain unanswered. Here, I provide evidence that horizontal gene transfer supported the evolution of biomineralization in some metazoans. I show that Msp130 proteins, first described as proteins expressed selectively by the biomineral-forming primary mesenchyme cells of the sea urchin embryo, have a much wider taxonomic distribution than was previously appreciated. Msp130 proteins are present in several invertebrate deuterostomes and in one protostome clade (molluscs). Surprisingly, closely related proteins are also present in many bacteria and several algae, and I propose that msp130 genes were introduced into metazoan lineages via multiple, independent horizontal gene transfer events. Phylogenetic analysis shows that the introduction of an ancestral msp130 gene occurred in the sea urchin lineage more than 250 million years ago and that msp130 genes underwent independent, parallel duplications in each of the metazoan phyla in which these genes are found. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Anaplasma phagocytophilum MSP4 and HSP70 Proteins Are Involved in Interactions with Host Cells during Pathogen Infection

PubMed Central

Contreras, Marinela; Alberdi, Pilar; Mateos-Hernández, Lourdes; Fernández de Mera, Isabel G.; García-Pérez, Ana L.; Vancová, Marie; Villar, Margarita; Ayllón, Nieves; Cabezas-Cruz, Alejandro; Valdés, James J.; Stuen, Snorre; Gortazar, Christian; de la Fuente, José

2017-01-01

Anaplasma phagocytophilum transmembrane and surface proteins play a role during infection and multiplication in host neutrophils and tick vector cells. Recently, A. phagocytophilum Major surface protein 4 (MSP4) and Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) were shown to be localized on the bacterial membrane, with a possible role during pathogen infection in ticks. In this study, we hypothesized that A. phagocytophilum MSP4 and HSP70 have similar functions in tick-pathogen and host-pathogen interactions. To address this hypothesis, herein we characterized the role of these bacterial proteins in interaction and infection of vertebrate host cells. The results showed that A. phagocytophilum MSP4 and HSP70 are involved in host-pathogen interactions, with a role for HSP70 during pathogen infection. The analysis of the potential protective capacity of MSP4 and MSP4-HSP70 antigens in immunized sheep showed that MSP4-HSP70 was only partially protective against pathogen infection. This limited protection may be associated with several factors, including the recognition of non-protective epitopes by IgG in immunized lambs. Nevertheless, these antigens may be combined with other candidate protective antigens for the development of vaccines for the control of human and animal granulocytic anaplasmosis. Focusing on the characterization of host protective immune mechanisms and protein-protein interactions at the host-pathogen interface may lead to the discovery and design of new effective protective antigens. PMID:28725639

Obesity is associated with a higher prevalence of musculoskeletal pain in middle-aged women.

PubMed

Blümel, Juan Enrique; Arteaga, Eugenio; Mezones-Holguín, Edward; Zúñiga, María Cristina; Witis, Silvina; Vallejo, María Soledad; Tserotas, Konstantino; Sánchez, Hugo; Onatra, William; Ojeda, Eliana; Mostajo, Desiree; Monterrosa, Alvaro; Lima, Selva; Martino, Mabel; Hernández-Bueno, Jose Alberto; Gómez, Gustavo; Espinoza, María Teresa; Flores, Daniel; Chedraui, Peter; Calle, Andrés; Bravo, Luz María; Benítez, Zully; Bencosme, Ascanio; Barón, Germán

2017-05-01

Musculoskeletal pain (MSP) has been recently linked with high plasma leptin levels. Our objective was to study if obese women, who have higher leptin levels, could have a higher frequency of MSP. We studied 6079 Latin-American women, 40-59 years old. Their epidemiological data were recorded and the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS), Golberg Anxiety and Depression Scale and Insomnia Scale were applied. MSP was defined as a score ≥2 on MRS11. Women with MSP were slightly older, had fewer years of schooling and were more sedentary. They also complained of more severe menopausal symptoms (29.2% versus. 4.4%, p < 0.0001). Furthermore, they had a higher abdominal perimeter (87.2 ± 12.0 cm versus 84.6 ± 11.6 cm, p < 0.0001) and a higher prevalence of obesity (23.1% versus 15.2%, p < 0.0001). Compared to normal weight women, those with low body weight (IMC <18.5) showed a lower risk of MSP (OR 0.71; 95%CI, 0.42-1.17), overweight women had a higher risk (OR 1.64; 95%CI, 1.44-1.87) and obese women the highest risk (OR 2.06; 95%CI, 1.76-2.40). Logistic regression analysis showed that obesity is independently associated to MSP (OR 1.34; 95%CI, 1.16-1.55). We conclude that obesity is one identifiable risk factor for MSP in middle-aged women.

Anaplasma phagocytophilum MSP4 and HSP70 Proteins Are Involved in Interactions with Host Cells during Pathogen Infection.

PubMed

Contreras, Marinela; Alberdi, Pilar; Mateos-Hernández, Lourdes; Fernández de Mera, Isabel G; García-Pérez, Ana L; Vancová, Marie; Villar, Margarita; Ayllón, Nieves; Cabezas-Cruz, Alejandro; Valdés, James J; Stuen, Snorre; Gortazar, Christian; de la Fuente, José

2017-01-01

Anaplasma phagocytophilum transmembrane and surface proteins play a role during infection and multiplication in host neutrophils and tick vector cells. Recently, A. phagocytophilum Major surface protein 4 (MSP4) and Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) were shown to be localized on the bacterial membrane, with a possible role during pathogen infection in ticks. In this study, we hypothesized that A. phagocytophilum MSP4 and HSP70 have similar functions in tick-pathogen and host-pathogen interactions. To address this hypothesis, herein we characterized the role of these bacterial proteins in interaction and infection of vertebrate host cells. The results showed that A. phagocytophilum MSP4 and HSP70 are involved in host-pathogen interactions, with a role for HSP70 during pathogen infection. The analysis of the potential protective capacity of MSP4 and MSP4-HSP70 antigens in immunized sheep showed that MSP4-HSP70 was only partially protective against pathogen infection. This limited protection may be associated with several factors, including the recognition of non-protective epitopes by IgG in immunized lambs. Nevertheless, these antigens may be combined with other candidate protective antigens for the development of vaccines for the control of human and animal granulocytic anaplasmosis. Focusing on the characterization of host protective immune mechanisms and protein-protein interactions at the host-pathogen interface may lead to the discovery and design of new effective protective antigens.

IDENTIFICATION AND EVALUATION OF CHARACTERISTICS OF KINDERGARTEN CHILDREN THAT FORETELL EARLY LEARNING PROBLEMS. FINAL REPORT.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

REECE, WILLIAM K.

TO EVALUATE THE EFFECTIVENESS OF A KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM OF SPECIFIC TRAINING RELATED TO MOTOR, SENSORY, AND PERCEPTUAL (M-S-P) PERFORMANCE, AN INSTRUMENT WAS DEVISED TO MEASURE THE M-S-P NEEDS AND STRENGTHS OF INDIVIDUAL PUPILS. RESEARCH WAS CONDUCTED TO TEST THE DIAGNOSTIC AND PREDICTIVE POTENTIALS OF THE M-S-P INSTRUMENT AND TO ASCERTAIN THE…

Review of Final Year MSP Evaluations, Performance Period 2007. Analytic and Technical Support for Mathematics and Science Partnerships

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bobronnikov, Ellen; Rhodes, Hilary; Bradley, Cay

2010-01-01

This final report culminates the evaluation and technical assistance provided for the U.S. Department of Education's Mathematics and Science Partnership (MSP) Program and its projects since 2005. As part of this support, Abt Associates looked across the portfolio of projects funded by the MSP program to draw lessons on best practices. This…

Comparative Analysis of Microsoft Package (MSP) Competence among Teacher Trainee Students in Botswana and Nigeria: Implications for Curriculum Practices

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ogwu, Edna Nwanyiuzor; Ogwu, Francis Chibuzor

2016-01-01

Most school curriculum is thwarted at the implementation level as a result of poor utilization of innovative Microsoft packages (MSP) for learning. The purpose of this study therefore is to determine the extent of utilization of innovative MSP for learning between teacher trainee students (TTSs) from Botswana and Nigeria, as well as their…

Radiation Test Results for Common CubeSat Microcontrollers and Microprocessors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Guertin, Steven M.; Amrbar, Mehran; Vartanian, Sergeh

2015-01-01

SEL, SEU, and TID results are presented for microcontrollers and microprocessors of interest for small satellite systems such as the TI MSP430F1611, MSP430F1612 and MSP430FR5739, Microchip PIC24F256GA110 and dsPIC33FJ256GP710, Atmel AT91SAM9G20, and Intel Atom E620T, and the Qualcomm Snapdragon APQ8064.

Parkinson disease and musculoskeletal pain: an 8-year population-based cohort study.

PubMed

Lien, Wei-Hung; Lien, Wei-Chih; Kuan, Ta-Shen; Wu, Shang-Te; Chen, Yi-Ting; Chiu, Ching-Ju

2017-07-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence and clinical features of musculoskeletal pain (MSP) in patients with Parkinson disease (PD) compared with a control group without the disease. The retrospective cohort study used a subset of the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) comprising information on 1 million beneficiaries randomly sampled from the entire population of Taiwan. A total of 490 patients aged 50 and above with newly diagnosed Parkinson disease were identified during a period from 2000 to 2005. Among them, 199 developed MSP after PD. The control group consisted of 1960 participants without PD over the study period randomly selected by matching PD cases according to the date of PD incidence, age, and sex. The study groups were then followed to the end of 2007. Musculoskeletal pain was the end point. The incidence rate ratios of MSP were higher in the PD group than in the control group, representing an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.31 (95% confidence interval 1.09 to 1.58). PD was associated with a significantly elevated risk of MSP in all sex and age stratifications, with the highest hazard ratio noted for middle-aged male patients with PD, followed by older male patients with PD. This study showed that the PD may significantly increase the risk of developing MSP. The risk of developing MSP seems to be greatest for middle-aged male patients with PD. Clinicians should be more alert for MSP in patients with PD, and early intervention should be considered.

The CYP17 MspA1 Polymorphism and the Gender Dysphoria.

PubMed

Fernández, Rosa; Cortés-Cortés, Joselyn; Esteva, Isabel; Gómez-Gil, Esther; Almaraz, Mari Cruz; Lema, Estefanía; Rumbo, Teresa; Haro-Mora, Juan-Jesús; Roda, Ester; Guillamón, Antonio; Pásaro, Eduardo

2015-06-01

The A2 allele of the CYP17 MspA1 polymorphism has been linked to higher levels of serum testosterone, progesterone, and estradiol. To determine whether the CYP17 MspA1 polymorphism is associated with transsexualism. We analyzed 151 male-to-female (MtF), 142 female-to-male (FtM), 167 control male, and 168 control female individuals. Fragments that included the mutation were amplified by PCR and digested with MspA1. Our data were compared with the allele/genotype frequencies provided by the 1000 Genomes Data Base, and contrasted with a MEDLINE search of the CYP17 MspA1 polymorphism in the literature. We investigated the association between transsexualism and the CYP17 MspA1 polymorphism. A2 frequency was higher in the FtM (0.45) than the female control (0.38) and male control (0.39) groups, or the MtF group (0.36). This FtM > MtF pattern reached statistical significance (P = 0.041), although allele frequencies were not gender specific in the general population (P = 0.887). This observation concurred with the 1000 Genomes Data Base and the MEDLINE search. Our data confirm a sex-dependent allele distribution of the CYP17 MspA1 polymorphism in the transsexual population, FtM > MtF, suggestive of a hypothetical A2 involvement in transsexualism since the allele frequencies in the general population seem to be clearly related to geographic origin and ethnic background, but not sex. © 2015 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

Is being a regular player with fewer teammates associated with musculoskeletal pain in youth team sports? A cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Abe, Takafumi; Kamada, Masamitsu; Kitayuguchi, Jun; Okada, Shinpei; Mutoh, Yoshiteru; Uchio, Yuji

2017-03-14

Musculoskeletal pain (MSP) is a commonly reported symptom in youth sports players. Some sports-related risk factors have been reported, but previous studies on extrinsic risk factors did not focus on management of team members (e.g., regular or non-regular players, number of players) for reducing sports-related MSP. This study aimed to examine the association of playing status (regular or non-regular players) and team status (fewer or more teammates) with MSP in youth team sports. A total of 632 team sports players (age: 12-18 years) in public schools in Unnan, Japan completed a self-administered questionnaire to determine MSP (overall, upper limbs, lower back, and lower limbs) and playing status (regular or non-regular players). Team status was calculated as follows: teammate quantity index (TQI) = [number of teammates in their grade]/[required number of players for the sport]. Associations between the prevalence of pain and joint categories of playing and team status were examined by multivariable-adjusted Poisson regression. A total of 272 (44.3%) participants had MSP at least several times a week in at least one part of the body. When divided by playing or team status, 140 (47.0%) regular and 130 (41.7%) non-regular players had MSP, whereas 142 (47.0%) players with fewer teammates (lower TQI) and 127 (41.8%) players with more teammates (higher TQI) had MSP. When analyzed jointly, regular players with fewer teammates had a higher prevalence of lower back pain compared with non-regular players with more teammates (21.3% vs 8.3%; prevalence ratio = 2.08 [95% confidence interval 1.07-4.02]). The prevalence of MSP was highest in regular players with fewer teammates for all other pain outcomes, but this was not significant. Regular players with fewer teammates have a higher risk of lower back pain. Future longitudinal investigations are required.

MGMT promoter methylation determined by HRM in comparison to MSP and pyrosequencing for predicting high-grade glioma response.

PubMed

Switzeny, Olivier J; Christmann, Markus; Renovanz, Mirjam; Giese, Alf; Sommer, Clemens; Kaina, Bernd

2016-01-01

The DNA repair protein O(6)-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) causes resistance of cancer cells to alkylating agents and, therefore, is a well-established predictive marker for high-grade gliomas that are routinely treated with alkylating drugs. Since MGMT is highly epigenetically regulated, the MGMT promoter methylation status is taken as an indicator of MGMT silencing, predicting the outcome of glioma therapy. MGMT promoter methylation is usually determined by methylation specific PCR (MSP), which is a labor intensive and error-prone method often used semi-quantitatively. Searching for alternatives, we used closed-tube high resolution melt (HRM) analysis, which is a quantitative method, and compared it with MSP and pyrosequencing regarding its predictive value. We analyzed glioblastoma cell lines with known MGMT activity and formalin-fixed samples from IDH1 wild-type high-grade glioma patients (WHO grade III/IV) treated with radiation and temozolomide by HRM, MSP, and pyrosequencing. The data were compared as to progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of patients exhibiting the methylated and unmethylated MGMT status. A promoter methylation cut-off level relevant for PFS and OS was determined. In a multivariate Cox regression model, methylation of MGMT promoter of high-grade gliomas analyzed by HRM, but not MSP, was found to be an independent predictive marker for OS. Univariate Kaplan-Meier analyses revealed for PFS and OS a significant and better discrimination between methylated and unmethylated tumors when quantitative HRM was used instead of MSP. Compared to MSP and pyrosequencing, the HRM method is simple, cost effective, highly accurate and fast. HRM is at least equivalent to pyrosequencing in quantifying the methylation level. It is superior in predicting PFS and OS of high-grade glioma patients compared to MSP and, therefore, can be recommended being used routinely for determination of the MGMT status of gliomas.

Enhanced GABAergic transmission in the central nucleus of the amygdala of genetically selected Marchigian Sardinian rats: alcohol and CRF effects

PubMed Central

Herman, Melissa; Kallupi, Marsida; Luu, George; Oleata, Christopher; Heilig, Markus; Koob, George F.; Ciccocioppo, Roberto; Roberto, Marisa

2012-01-01

The GABAergic system in the central amygdala (CeA) plays a major role in ethanol dependence and the anxiogenic-like response to ethanol withdrawal. Alcohol dependence is associated with increased corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) influence on CeA GABA release and CRF type 1 receptor (CRF1) antagonists prevent the excessive alcohol consumption associated with dependence. Genetically-selected Marchigian Sardinian (msP) rats have an overactive extrahypothalamic CRF1 system, are highly sensitive to stress, and display an innate preference for alcohol. The present study examined differences in CeA GABAergic transmission and the effects of ethanol, CRF and a CRF1 antagonist in msP, Sprague-Dawley, and Wistar rats using an electrophysiological approach. We found no significant differences in membrane properties or mean amplitude of evoked GABAA-inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (IPSPs). However, paired-pulse facilitation (PPF) ratios of evoked IPSPs were significantly lower and spontaneous miniature inhibitory postsynaptic current (mIPSC) frequencies were higher in msP rats, suggesting increased CeA GABA release in msP as compared to Sprague-Dawley and Wistar rats. The sensitivity of spontaneous GABAergic transmission to ethanol (44 mM), CRF (200 nM) and CRF1 antagonist (R121919, 1 μM) was comparable in msP, Sprague Dawley, and Wistar rats. However, a history of ethanol drinking significantly increased the baseline mIPSC frequency and decreased the effects of a CRF1 antagonist in msP rats, suggesting increased GABA release and decreased CRF1 sensitivity. These results provide electrophysiological evidence that msP rats display distinct CeA GABAergic activity as compared to Sprague Dawley and Wistar rats. The elevated GABAergic transmission observed in naïve mSP rats is consistent with the neuroadaptations reported in Sprague Dawley rats after the development of ethanol dependence. PMID:23220399

Associated Risk Factors of STIs and Multiple Sexual Relationships among Youths in Malawi

PubMed Central

N, Wilson Chialepeh; A, Sathiyasusuman

2015-01-01

Background Having unprotected sex with multiple sexual partners (MSP) is the greatest risk factor for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among youths. Young people with MSPs are less likely to use a condom and the greater the risk for STIs. This study examines the associated risk factors of STIs and multiple sexual partnerships among youths aged 15–24 years. Data and Methods The Malawi Demographic Health Survey 2010 data was used. Out of a sample of 2,987 males and 9,559 females aged 15–24 years, 2,026 males and 6,470 females were considered in the study. Chi square test and logistic regression techniques were performed. Analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. Findings The results indicate that 1,399 (69.0%) males and 2,290 (35.4%) females reported multiple sexual partnerships (MSP). Within the rural area, females (n = 1779) were more likely to report MSP than males (n = 1082) and within the urban areas, a higher proportion of females (n = 511) still reported MSP, with males (n = 316). About 78% rural females aged 20–24 years, and about 79% rural males aged 15–19 years reported MSP. The likelihood of MSP was higher among females in the poorest households (OR = 1.31), being married (OR = 5.71) and Catholic males (OR = 1.63), who were married (OR = 1.59). Catholic males (OR = 1.82) in the rural areas, who were married (OR = 1.80) and rural females in the northern region (OR = 1.26) were more likely to have MSP. The odds ratios were higher among urban females in the poorest (OR = 3.45) households who were married (OR = 4.22). Conclusions Having more than one sexual partner increases the risk of STIs and sexuality education programs should be introduced that emphasize the danger that surrounds MSP. PMID:26248328

Capability Engineering Process (CEP) Foundations - Version 2

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-03-02

R& D /Ops Research, Infrastructure & Organization, Qoncepts, Doctrine & Collective Training, IT Infrastructure , Equipment, Supplies and Services...les investissements strategiques requis pour repondre it une lacune en matiere de capacite. Ce processus est elabore dans la cadre du projet de...ainsi que six (6) buts secondaires servent it positionner Ie PIC comme un processus interne aux activites de planification axee sur les capacites

Statistical model of quiet Sun coronal heating (French Title: Modèle statistique de chauffage de la couronne solaire calme)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Podladchikova, O.

2002-02-01

The high temperature of the solar corona is still a puzzling problem of solar physics. However, the recent observations of satellites SoHO, Yohkoh or TRACE seem to indicate that the processes responsible for the heating of the closed regions are situated in the low corona or in the chromosphere, thus close to the sun surface, and are associated to the direct currents dissipation. Statistical data analysis suggest that the heating mechanisms result thus from numerous events of current layers dissipation of small scale and weak energy, on the resolution limit of modern instruments. We propose a statistical lattice model, resulting from an approach more physical than self-organized criticality, constituted by a magnetic energy source at small scales and by dissipation mechanisms of the currents, which can be associated either to magnetic reconnection or to anomalous resistivity. The various types of sources and mechanisms of dissipation allow to study their influence on the statistical properties of the system, in particular on the energy dissipation. With the aim of quantifying this behavior and allowing detailed comparisons between models and observations, analysis techniques little used in solar physics, such as the singular values decomposition, entropies, or Pearson technique of PDF classification are introduced and applied to the study of the spatial and temporal properties of the model. La température anormalement élevée de la couronne reste un des problèmes majeurs de la physique solaire. Toutefois, les observations récentes des satellites SoHO, Yohkoh ou TRACE semblent indiquer que les processus responsables du chauffage des régions fermées se situent dans la basse couronne ou dans la chromosphère, donc proches de la surface solaire, et sont associés à la dissipation de couches de courant continu. L'analyse statistique de données suggère que les mécanismes de chauffage résulteraient donc de nombreux événements de dissipation de couches de courant de petite échelle et de faible énergie, àla limite de la résolution des instruments modernes. Nous proposons un modèle statistique sur réseau, résultant d'une approche plus physique que la criticalité auto-organisée, constitué d'une source d'énergie magnétique de petite échelle et de mécanismes de dissipation des courants, qui peuvent être associés soit à la reconnection magnétique soit à la résistivité anormale. Les différents types de sources et de mécanismes de dissipation permettent d'étudier leur influence sur les propriétés statistiques du système, en particulier sur l'énergie dissipée. Dans le but de quantifier ces comportements et de permettre des comparaisons approfondies entres les modèles et les observations, des techniques d'analyse peu utilisées en physique solaire, telles que la décomposition en valeurs singulières, des entropies, ou la technique de Pearson de classification des densités de probabilité, sont introduites et appliquées `a l'étude des propriétés spatiales et temporelles du modèle.

Gene-environment interactions associated with CYP1A1 MspI and GST polymorphisms and the risk of upper aerodigestive tract cancers in an Indian population.

PubMed

Sam, Soya Sisy; Thomas, Vinod; Reddy, K S; Surianarayanan, Gopalakrishnan; Chandrasekaran, Adithan

2010-06-01

Genetic risk to tobacco related cancers are associated with polymorphisms in CYP1A1 and GST, which are involved in the metabolic activation and detoxification of carcinogens. The genetic variations in these drug-metabolizing enzymes may alter the susceptibility to UADT cancers triggered by environmental exposures. The hospital-based case-control study evaluated the impact of combined CYP1A1 MspI and GST (M1 & T1) polymorphisms among the individuals exposed to environmental risk factors as modulators in the risk of UADT cancers in Tamilians, a population of south India. The unrelated histopathologically confirmed 408 cases and 220 population-based controls matched by age and gender were genotyped for CYP1A1 MspI, GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms using PCR based methods. To investigate the potential gene-environment interactions, analyses were carried out stratifying by smoking and tobacco chewing status using SPSS software. The combination of genes and environment interactions by stratified analyses revealed significant interactions among the habitual tobacco smokers (CYP1A1 MspI & GSTM1 null: OR 14.06; 95% CI 3.90-50.68, CYP1A1 MspI & GSTT1 null: OR 33.28; 95% CI 4.24-261.19) and tobacco chewers (CYP1A1 MspI & GSTM1 null: OR 20.51; 95% CI 6.77-62.13, CYP1A1 MspI & GSTT1 null: OR 79.35; 95% CI 10.40-605.55) on the multiplicative scale. Our findings have indicated that the individuals polymorphic for CYP1A1 MspI either with GSTM1 null or with GSTT1 null genotypes revealed an increased risk for UADT cancers than that ascribed to a single susceptible gene among the tobacco users in the population [single gene risk among smokers and chewers, respectively, for CYP1A1 MspI (OR 6.43; 95% CI 3.69-11.21); (OR 10.24; 95% CI 5.95-17.60), GSTM1*0 (OR 3.77; 95% CI 1.94-7.37); (OR 7.97 95% CI 4.10-15.76) and GSTT1*0 (OR 6.95 95% CI 2.88-16.77); (OR 25.83 95% CI 7.78-85.76).

Biological nanopore MspA for DNA sequencing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manrao, Elizabeth A.

Unlocking the information hidden in the human genome provides insight into the inner workings of complex biological systems and can be used to greatly improve health-care. In order to allow for widespread sequencing, new technologies are required that provide fast and inexpensive readings of DNA. Nanopore sequencing is a third generation DNA sequencing technology that is currently being developed to fulfill this need. In nanopore sequencing, a voltage is applied across a small pore in an electrolyte solution and the resulting ionic current is recorded. When DNA passes through the channel, the ionic current is partially blocked. If the DNA bases uniquely modulate the ionic current flowing through the channel, the time trace of the current can be related to the sequence of DNA passing through the pore. There are two main challenges to realizing nanopore sequencing: identifying a pore with sensitivity to single nucleotides and controlling the translocation of DNA through the pore so that the small single nucleotide current signatures are distinguishable from background noise. In this dissertation, I explore the use of Mycobacterium smegmatis porin A (MspA) for nanopore sequencing. In order to determine MspA's sensitivity to single nucleotides, DNA strands of various compositions are held in the pore as the resulting ionic current is measured. DNA is immobilized in MspA by attaching it to a large molecule which acts as an anchor. This technique confirms the single nucleotide resolution of the pore and additionally shows that MspA is sensitive to epigenetic modifications and single nucleotide polymorphisms. The forces from the electric field within MspA, the effective charge of nucleotides, and elasticity of DNA are estimated using a Freely Jointed Chain model of single stranded DNA. These results offer insight into the interactions of DNA within the pore. With the nucleotide sensitivity of MspA confirmed, a method is introduced to controllably pass DNA through the pore. Using a DNA polymerase, DNA strands are stepped through MspA one nucleotide at a time. The steps are observable as distinct levels on the ionic-current time-trace and are related to the DNA sequence. These experiments overcome the two fundamental challenges to realizing MspA nanopore sequencing and pave the way to the development of a commercial technology.

Quality assessment of DNA derived from up to 30 years old formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue for PCR-based methylation analysis using SMART-MSP and MS-HRM.

PubMed

Kristensen, Lasse S; Wojdacz, Tomasz K; Thestrup, Britta B; Wiuf, Carsten; Hager, Henrik; Hansen, Lise Lotte

2009-12-21

The High Resolution Melting (HRM) technology has recently been introduced as a rapid and robust analysis tool for the detection of DNA methylation. The methylation status of multiple tumor suppressor genes may serve as biomarkers for early cancer diagnostics, for prediction of prognosis and for prediction of response to treatment. Therefore, it is important that methodologies for detection of DNA methylation continue to evolve. Sensitive Melting Analysis after Real Time - Methylation Specific PCR (SMART-MSP) and Methylation Sensitive - High Resolution Melting (MS-HRM) are two methods for single locus DNA methylation detection based on HRM. Here, we have assessed the quality of DNA extracted from up to 30 years old Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded (FFPE) tissue for DNA methylation analysis using SMART-MSP and MS-HRM. The quality assessment was performed on DNA extracted from 54 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) samples derived from FFPE tissue, collected over 30 years and grouped into five years intervals. For each sample, the methylation levels of the CDKN2A (p16) and RARB promoters were estimated using SMART-MSP and MS-HRM assays designed to assess the methylation status of the same CpG positions. This allowed for a direct comparison of the methylation levels estimated by the two methods for each sample. CDKN2A promoter methylation levels were successfully determined by SMART-MSP and MS-HRM in all 54 samples. Identical methylation estimates were obtained by the two methods in 46 of the samples. The methylation levels of the RARB promoter were successfully determined by SMART-MSP in all samples. When using MS-HRM to assess RARB methylation five samples failed to amplify and 15 samples showed a melting profile characteristic for heterogeneous methylation. Twenty-seven of the remaining 34 samples, for which the methylation level could be estimated, gave the same result as observed when using SMART-MSP. MS-HRM and SMART-MSP can be successfully used for single locus methylation studies using DNA derived from up to 30 years old FFPE tissue. Furthermore, it can be expected that MS-HRM and SMART-MSP will provide similar methylation estimates when assays are designed to analyze the same CpG positions.

MSP-HTPrimer: a high-throughput primer design tool to improve assay design for DNA methylation analysis in epigenetics.

PubMed

Pandey, Ram Vinay; Pulverer, Walter; Kallmeyer, Rainer; Beikircher, Gabriel; Pabinger, Stephan; Kriegner, Albert; Weinhäusel, Andreas

2016-01-01

Bisulfite (BS) conversion-based and methylation-sensitive restriction enzyme (MSRE)-based PCR methods have been the most commonly used techniques for locus-specific DNA methylation analysis. However, both methods have advantages and limitations. Thus, an integrated approach would be extremely useful to quantify the DNA methylation status successfully with great sensitivity and specificity. Designing specific and optimized primers for target regions is the most critical and challenging step in obtaining the adequate DNA methylation results using PCR-based methods. Currently, no integrated, optimized, and high-throughput methylation-specific primer design software methods are available for both BS- and MSRE-based methods. Therefore an integrated, powerful, and easy-to-use methylation-specific primer design pipeline with great accuracy and success rate will be very useful. We have developed a new web-based pipeline, called MSP-HTPrimer, to design primers pairs for MSP, BSP, pyrosequencing, COBRA, and MSRE assays on both genomic strands. First, our pipeline converts all target sequences into bisulfite-treated templates for both forward and reverse strand and designs all possible primer pairs, followed by filtering for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and known repeat regions. Next, each primer pairs are annotated with the upstream and downstream RefSeq genes, CpG island, and cut sites (for COBRA and MSRE). Finally, MSP-HTPrimer selects specific primers from both strands based on custom and user-defined hierarchical selection criteria. MSP-HTPrimer produces a primer pair summary output table in TXT and HTML format for display and UCSC custom tracks for resulting primer pairs in GTF format. MSP-HTPrimer is an integrated, web-based, and high-throughput pipeline and has no limitation on the number and size of target sequences and designs MSP, BSP, pyrosequencing, COBRA, and MSRE assays. It is the only pipeline, which automatically designs primers on both genomic strands to increase the success rate. It is a standalone web-based pipeline, which is fully configured within a virtual machine and thus can be readily used without any configuration. We have experimentally validated primer pairs designed by our pipeline and shown a very high success rate of primer pairs: out of 66 BSP primer pairs, 63 were successfully validated without any further optimization step and using the same qPCR conditions. The MSP-HTPrimer pipeline is freely available from http://sourceforge.net/p/msp-htprimer.

Maternal smoking during pregnancy and offspring antisocial behaviour: findings from a longitudinal investigation of discordant siblings.

PubMed

Paradis, Angela D; Shenassa, Edmond D; Papandonatos, George D; Rogers, Michelle L; Buka, Stephen L

2017-09-01

Although many observational studies have found a strong association between maternal smoking during pregnancy (MSP) and offspring antisocial behaviour, the likelihood that this relationship is causal remains unclear. To comment on the potential causality of this association, the current investigation used a between-within decomposition approach to examine the association between MSP and multiple indices of adolescent and adult antisocial behaviour. Study participants were offspring of women enrolled in the Providence and Boston sites of the Collaborative Perinatal Project. Information on MSP was collected prospectively. Antisocial behaviour was assessed via self-report and through official records searches. A subset of the adult offspring (average age: 39.6 years) were enrolled in a follow-up study oversampling families with multiple siblings. Participants in this follow-up study self-reported on juvenile and adult antisocial behaviours during a structured interview (n=1684). Official records of juvenile (n=3447) and adult (n=3433) criminal behaviour were obtained for participants in the Providence cohort. Statistical models allowed between-family effects of MSP exposure to differ from within-family effects. In the absence of heterogeneity in between-family versus within-family estimates, a combined estimate was calculated. MSP was associated with a range of antisocial behaviours, measured by self-report and official records. For example, MSP was associated with increased odds of elevated levels of antisocial behaviours during adolescence and adulthood, as well as violent and non-violent outcomes during both developmental periods. Findings are consistent with a small-to-moderate causal effect of MSP on adolescent and adult antisocial behaviour. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

Heterogeneous genetic diversity pattern in Plasmodium vivax genes encoding merozoite surface proteins (MSP) -7E, -7F and -7L.

PubMed

Garzón-Ospina, Diego; Forero-Rodríguez, Johanna; Patarroyo, Manuel A

2014-12-13

The msp-7 gene has become differentially expanded in the Plasmodium genus; Plasmodium vivax has the highest copy number of this gene, several of which encode antigenic proteins in merozoites. DNA sequences from thirty-six Colombian clinical isolates from P. vivax (pv) msp-7E, -7F and -7L genes were analysed for characterizing and studying the genetic diversity of these pvmsp-7 members which are expressed during the intra-erythrocyte stage; natural selection signals producing the variation pattern so observed were evaluated. The pvmsp-7E gene was highly polymorphic compared to pvmsp-7F and pvmsp-7L which were seen to have limited genetic diversity; pvmsp-7E polymorphism was seen to have been maintained by different types of positive selection. Even though these copies seemed to be species-specific duplications, a search in the Plasmodium cynomolgi genome (P. vivax sister taxon) showed that both species shared the whole msp-7 repertoire. This led to exploring the long-term effect of natural selection by comparing the orthologous sequences which led to finding signatures for lineage-specific positive selection. The results confirmed that the P. vivax msp-7 family has a heterogeneous genetic diversity pattern; some members are highly conserved whilst others are highly diverse. The results suggested that the 3'-end of these genes encode MSP-7 proteins' functional region whilst the central region of pvmsp-7E has evolved rapidly. The lineage-specific positive selection signals found suggested that mutations occurring in msp-7s genes during host switch may have succeeded in adapting the ancestral P. vivax parasite population to humans.

Acquired Antibodies to Merozoite Antigens in Children from Uganda with Uncomplicated or Severe Plasmodium falciparum Malaria

PubMed Central

Ahmed Ismail, Hodan; Ribacke, Ulf; Reiling, Linda; Normark, Johan; Egwang, Tom; Kironde, Fred; Beeson, James G.; Wahlgren, Mats

2013-01-01

Malaria can present itself as an uncomplicated or severe disease. We have here studied the quantity and quality of antibody responses against merozoite antigens, as well as multiplicity of infection (MOI), in children from Uganda. We found higher levels of IgG antibodies toward erythrocyte-binding antigen EBA181, MSP2 of Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 and FC27 (MSP2-3D7/FC27), and apical membrane antigen 1 (AMA1) in patients with uncomplicated malaria by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) but no differences against EBA140, EBA175, MSP1, and reticulocyte-binding protein homologues Rh2 and Rh4 or for IgM against MSP2-3D7/FC27.Patients with uncomplicated malaria were also shown to have higher antibody affinities for AMA1 by surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Decreased invasion of two clinical P. falciparum isolates in the presence of patient plasma correlated with lower initial parasitemia in the patients, in contrast to comparisons of parasitemia to ELISA values or antibody affinities, which did not show any correlations. Analysis of the heterogeneity of the infections revealed a higher MOI in patients with uncomplicated disease, with the P. falciparum K1 MSP1 (MSP1-K1) and MSP2-3D7 being the most discriminative allelic markers. Higher MOIs also correlated positively with higher antibody levels in several of the ELISAs. In conclusion, certain antibody responses and MOIs were associated with differences between uncomplicated and severe malaria. When different assays were combined, some antibodies, like those against AMA1, seemed particularly discriminative. However, only decreased invasion correlated with initial parasitemia in the patient, signaling the importance of functional assays in understanding development of immunity against malaria and in evaluating vaccine candidates. PMID:23740926

Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy: a pediatrician's observations.

PubMed

Siegel, David M

2009-03-01

Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy (MSP) is a disturbing diagnosis that should be considered when persistent signs and symptoms defy adequate explanation despite extensive testing. Insistence by a parent (often mother) that more, and particularly invasive investigations be pursued, should serve as a warning sign that MSP might be present. The primary care provider who has an existing, over-time, relationship with the child and family is in an important position to raise the question of MSP because this professional may be able to recognize larger dynamics at play between child and family that are less apparent to subspecialists who are focused on a narrow aspect of the evaluation. A confounding element to identifying MSP can also be at play when parent(s) have become proficient in the jargon and technical communication with which professionals on the healthcare team are most comfortable. This easily occurs in cases of MSP both because frequent hospitalizations offer ample opportunity for the articulate and inquisitive parent to pick up the ways of "medical-speak," and because the World Wide Web provides countless and effortlessly accessible sources of disease related information (albeit not always accurate or relevant to the diagnostic dilemma in question). An additional complicating factor in posing a risk for MSP is the child with a chronic illness, or one whose neonatal course has served to label the child as vulnerable.

Combined magnetic vector-scalar potential finite element computation of 3D magnetic field and performance of modified Lundell alternators in Space Station applications. Ph.D. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Ren H.

1991-01-01

A method of combined use of magnetic vector potential (MVP) based finite element (FE) formulations and magnetic scalar potential (MSP) based FE formulations for computation of three-dimensional (3D) magnetostatic fields is developed. This combined MVP-MSP 3D-FE method leads to considerable reduction by nearly a factor of 3 in the number of unknowns in comparison to the number of unknowns which must be computed in global MVP based FE solutions. This method allows one to incorporate portions of iron cores sandwiched in between coils (conductors) in current-carrying regions. Thus, it greatly simplifies the geometries of current carrying regions (in comparison with the exclusive MSP based methods) in electric machinery applications. A unique feature of this approach is that the global MSP solution is single valued in nature, that is, no branch cut is needed. This is again a superiority over the exclusive MSP based methods. A Newton-Raphson procedure with a concept of an adaptive relaxation factor was developed and successfully used in solving the 3D-FE problem with magnetic material anisotropy and nonlinearity. Accordingly, this combined MVP-MSP 3D-FE method is most suited for solution of large scale global type magnetic field computations in rotating electric machinery with very complex magnetic circuit geometries, as well as nonlinear and anisotropic material properties.

Modification-dependent restriction endonuclease, MspJI, flips 5-methylcytosine out of the DNA helix

DOE PAGES

Horton, J. R.; Wang, H.; Mabuchi, M. Y.; ...

2014-09-27

MspJI belongs to a family of restriction enzymes that cleave DNA containing 5-methylcytosine (5mC) or 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC). MspJI is specific for the sequence 5(h)mC-N-N-G or A and cleaves with some variability 9/13 nucleotides downstream. Earlier, we reported the crystal structure of MspJI without DNA and proposed how it might recognize this sequence and catalyze cleavage. Here we report its co-crystal structure with a 27-base pair oligonucleotide containing 5mC. This structure confirms that MspJI acts as a homotetramer and that the modified cytosine is flipped from the DNA helix into an SRA-like-binding pocket. We expected the structure to reveal two DNAmore » molecules bound specifically to the tetramer and engaged with the enzyme's two DNA-cleavage sites. A coincidence of crystal packing precluded this organization, however. We found that each DNA molecule interacted with two adjacent tetramers, binding one specifically and the other non-specifically. The latter interaction, which prevented cleavage-site engagement, also involved base flipping and might represent the sequence-interrogation phase that precedes specific recognition. MspJI is unusual in that DNA molecules are recognized and cleaved by different subunits. Such interchange of function might explain how other complex multimeric restriction enzymes act.« less

Antigenic variation of Anaplasma marginale msp2 occurs by combinatorial gene conversion.

PubMed

Brayton, Kelly A; Palmer, Guy H; Lundgren, Anna; Yi, Jooyoung; Barbet, Anthony F

2002-03-01

The rickettsial pathogen Anaplasma marginale establishes lifelong persistent infection in the mammalian reservoir host, during which time immune escape variants continually arise in part because of variation in the expressed copy of the immunodominant outer membrane protein MSP2. A key question is how the small 1.2 Mb A. marginale genome generates sufficient variants to allow long-term persistence in an immunocompetent reservoir host. The recombination of whole pseudogenes into the single msp2 expression site has been previously identified as one method of generating variants, but is inadequate to generate the number of variants required for persistent infection. In the present study, we demonstrate that recombination of a whole pseudogene is followed by a second level of variation in which small segments of pseudogenes recombine into the expression site by gene conversion. Evidence for four short sequential changes in the hypervariable region of msp2 coupled with the identification of nine pseudogenes from a single strain of A. marginale provides for a combinatorial number of possible expressed MSP2 variants sufficient for lifelong persistence.

Une version franco-canadienne de la Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) Scale : L'Échelle PEDro

PubMed Central

Laroche, Chantal; Sutton, Anne; Guitard, Paulette; King, Judy; Poitras, Stéphane; Casimiro, Lynn; Tremblay, Manon; Cardinal, Dominique; Cavallo, Sabrina; Laferrière, Lucie; Grisé, Isabelle; Marshall, Lisa; Smith, Jacky R.; Lagacé, Josée; Pharand, Denyse; Galipeau, Roseline; Toupin-April, Karine; Loew, Laurianne; Demers, Catrine; Sauvé-Schenk, Katrine; Paquet, Nicole; Savard, Jacinthe; Tourigny, Jocelyne; Vaillancourt, Véronique

2015-01-01

RÉSUMÉ But : Effectuer une traduction franco-canadienne de la PEDro scale sous l'appellation proposée d'Échelle PEDro et examiner la validité de son contenu. Méthodologie : Nous avons utilisé une approche modifiée de la méthodologie de validation transculturelle de Vallerand. Une traduction renversée parallèle de la PEDro scale a d'abord été effectuée à la fois par des traductrices professionnelles et des chercheurs cliniciens. Ensuite, un premier comité d'experts (P1) a examiné les versions traduites et a créé la première version expérimentale de l'Échelle PEDro. Cette version a été évaluée par un deuxième comité d'experts (P2). Finalement, 32 chercheurs cliniques ont évalué cette deuxième version expérimentale de l'Échelle PEDro à l'aide d'une échelle de clarté (étendue de 5 points) et ont proposé les modifications finales. Résultats : Pour les différents énoncés de la version finale de l'Échelle PEDro, les moyennes sur l'échelle de clarté montrent un niveau élevé puisqu'elles varient entre 4,0 et 4,7 sur un score maximal de 5 points. Conclusion : Les quatre étapes rigoureuses du processus ont permis de produire une version franco-canadienne valide de l'Échelle PEDro. PMID:26839449

Nucléation, ascension et éclatement d'une bulle de champagne

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liger-Belair, G.

2006-03-01

People have long been fascinated by bubbles and foams dynamics, and since the pioneering work of Leonardo da Vinci in the early 16th century, this subject has generated a huge bibliography. However, only quite recently, much interest was devoted to bubbles in Champagne wines and carbonated beverages. Since the time of the benedictine monk dom Pierre Perignon (1638-1715), champagne is the wine of celebration. This fame is largely linked to the elegance of its effervescence and foaming properties. In this book, the latest results about the chemical physics behind the bubbling properties of Champagne and sparkling wines are collected and fully illustrated. The first chapter is devoted to the history of champagne and to a presentation of the tools of the physical chemistry of interfaces needed for a whole comprehension of the book. Then, the three main steps of a fleeting champagne bubble's life are presented in chronological order, that is, the bubble nucleation on the glass wall (Chap.2), the bubble ascent and growth through the liquid matrix (Chap.3), and the bursting of bubbles at the liquid surface (Chap.4), which constitutes the most intriguing, functional, and visually appealing step. L'objectif général de ce travail consacré à l'étude des processus physicochimiques liés à l'effervescence des vins de Champagne était de décortiquer les différentes étapes de la vie d'une bulle de champagne en conditions réelles de consommation, dans une flûte. Nous résumons ci-après les principaux résultats obtenus pour chacune des étapes de la vie de la bulle, depuis sa naissance sur les parois d'une flûte, jusqu'à son éclatement en surface. Nucléation À l'aide d'une caméra rapide munie d'un objectif de microscope, nous avons pu mettre à mal une idée largement répandue. Ce ne sont pas les anfractuosités de la surface du verre ou de la flûte qui sont responsable de la nucléation hétérogène des bulles, mais des particules adsorbées sur les parois du verre ou de la flûte. Dans la majorité des cas, il s'agit de fibres de cellulose creuses dont les propriétés géométriques permettent le piégeage d'une poche d'air en leur sein au moment du versement. Un modèle de piégeage a été construit et met en avant le rôle fondamental joué par la vitesse du versement. Plus cette vitesse augmente, plus on augmente la probabilité de piéger des poches d'air au sein de ces fibres, provoquant ainsi une effervescence plus importante. La dynamique de production des bulles a également été filmée in situ à l'aide de la caméra, puis modélisée en utilisant les équations de la diffusion adaptées à la géométrie de notre fibre supposée approximativement cylindrique. Nous avons montré que le temps caractéristique de production d'une bulle par la fibre est largement gouverné par la croissance de cette petite poche de gaz par diffusion du CO{2} dissous vers la poche. Nous avons démontré que la convection du liquide joue un rôle essentiel lors du transfert de masse du CO{2} dissous vers la poche. En effet, un modèle purement diffusif ne permet pas du tout de reproduire la dynamique de croissance expérimentale de ces poches de gaz piégées au cœur des fibres. Nous avons également pu mettre en évidence des changements spectaculaires dans la dynamique de bullage de certains sites de nucléation suivis au cours du temps pendant le processus de dégazage. Ces observations font de la fibre de cellulose immergée dans le champagne le plus petit système de bullage non-linéaire observé à ce jour. Dynamique ascensionnelle Pour mesurer la vitesse d'une bulle tout au long de son trajet vers la surface libre du champagne, nous avons tiré profit de la production répétitive de bulles au niveau des sites de nucléation. Par la mise en place d'un dispositif expérimental simple qui associe une lumière stroboscopique et un appareil photographique muni de bagues macros, nous avons pu accéder à l'observation fine des trains de bulles ainsi qu'à la détermination de la vitesse ascensionnelle des bulles. Les mesures expérimentales du rayon et de la vitesse d'une bulle nous ont permis de déterminer le coefficient de traînée d'une bulle montante qui constitue une mesure indirecte de son état de surface en termes de mobilité interfaciale. Ces mesures nous ont montré que l'interface d'une bulle de champagne conserve une grande mobilité interfaciale pendant sa phase ascensionnelle, à la différence des bulles de taille fixe qui montent dans une solution de macromolécules tensioactives. C'est la faible dilution du champagne en macromolécules tensioactives et le grossissement continu des bulles pendant l'ascension qui assurent aux bulles une faible contamination de leur interface. Pour comparaison, nous avons réalisé le même type de mesures sur des bulles de bière. Le contenu en macromolécules tensioactives étant beaucoup plus important dans une bière, l'effet de dilution du matériel tensioactif à la surface des bulles lié à l'accroissement de la surface des bulles ne compense plus l'adsorption massive des tensioactifs à la surface des bulles. Contrairement aux bulles du champagne, les bulles de bière adoptent vite un comportement de type sphère rigide. Nous avons également discuté l'influence relative de certains paramètres sur la taille des bulles lorsqu'elles parviennent en surface. Il a notamment été montré que le rôle théorique joué par la température du champagne sur la taille des bulles est quasiment négligeable. Pour finir, nous avons proposé d'essayer de faire du train de bulles une sorte d'empreinte digitale du liquide effervescent dans lequel il évolue en analysant la dynamique ascensionnelle des bulles via la mesure de leur coefficient de frottement. Nous avons pu différencier à ce jour par cette méthode trois grandes familles de boissons gazeuses : les vins effervescents au sens large (champagne compris), les bières et les eaux gazeuses. Éclatement En utilisant les techniques classiques de la macrophotographie, nous avons obtenu des instantanés de la situation qui suit immédiatement la rupture du mince film liquide qui constitue la partie émergée d'une bulle isolée en surface. Nous avons ainsi pu mettre en évidence l'existence des jets de liquide engendrés par les éclatements de bulle, et leur rupture en gouttelettes suite au développement très rapide de l'instabilité de Rayleigh-Plateau. En faisant un parallèle légitime entre le pétillement des bulles à la surface du champagne et le “pétillement de l'océan”, nous avons émis l'idée que les gouttelettes de jet étaient beaucoup plus concentrées en matériel tensioactif (et potentiellement aromatique) que le cœur de phase du liquide. Il semble donc que l'éclatement de bulles joue un rôle essentiel dans l'effet exhausteur d'arômes au cours de la dégustation d'un champagne. Pendant les quelques secondes qui suivent le versement du champagne dans la flûte, nous avons également réalisé des clichés macrophotographiques et des films à haute vitesse d'éclatements de bulles en monocouche (ou radeau de bulles). Les premiers résultats de ces observations font apparaître des déformations spectaculaires dans le film liquide des bulles premières voisines littéralement aspirées par succion capillaire dans la cavité laissée vacante par la bulle centrale en train d'éclater. Ces premières images suggèrent des contraintes, dans le mince film des bulles déformées, très supérieures à celles qui existent dans le sillage d'une bulle isolée qui éclate. Nous avons également pu mettre en évidence des différences structurales entre les jets de liquide qui suivent l'éclatement des bulles isolées et celles qui éclatent dans un radeau de bulles.

Groundwater recharge and chemical evolution in the southern High Plains of Texas, USA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fryar, Alan; Mullican, William; Macko, Stephen

2001-11-01

The unconfined High Plains (Ogallala) aquifer is the largest aquifer in the USA and the primary water supply for the semiarid southern High Plains of Texas and New Mexico. Analyses of water and soils northeast of Amarillo, Texas, together with data from other regional studies, indicate that processes during recharge control the composition of unconfined groundwater in the northern half of the southern High Plains. Solute and isotopic data are consistent with a sequence of episodic precipitation, concentration of solutes in upland soils by evapotranspiration, runoff, and infiltration beneath playas and ditches (modified locally by return flow of wastewater and irrigation tailwater). Plausible reactions during recharge include oxidation of organic matter, dissolution and exsolution of CO2, dissolution of CaCO3, silicate weathering, and cation exchange. Si and 14C data suggest leakage from perched aquifers to the High Plains aquifer. Plausible mass-balance models for the High Plains aquifer include scenarios of flow with leakage but not reactions, flow with reactions but not leakage, and flow with neither reactions nor leakage. Mechanisms of recharge and chemical evolution delineated in this study agree with those noted for other aquifers in the south-central and southwestern USA. Résumé. L'aquifère libre des Hautes Plaines (Ogallala) est le plus vaste aquifère des états-Unis et la ressource de base pour l'eau potable de la région semi-aride du sud des Hautes Plaines du Texas et du Nouveau-Mexique. Des analyses de l'eau et des sols prélevés au nord-est d'Amarillo (Texas), associées à des données provenant d'autres études dans cette région, indiquent que des processus intervenant au cours de l'infiltration contrôlent la composition de l'eau de la nappe libre dans la moitié septentrionale du sud des Hautes Plaines. Les données chimiques et isotopiques sont compatibles avec une séquence de précipitation épisodique, avec la reconcentration en solutés dans les sols des hautes terres par évapotranspiration, avec le ruissellement et l'infiltration dans les playas et les fossés (modifiée localement par l'écoulement en retour des eaux usées et des laisses d'irrigation). Des réactions probables intervenant au cours de la recharge sont l'oxydation de la matière organique, la dissolution et le dégazage du CO2, la dissolution du CaCO3, l'altération des silicates et l'échange de cations. Les données concernant Si et 14C laissent penser qu'il existe une drainance descendante à partir d'aquifères perchés vers l'aquifère des Hautes Plaines. Des modèles vraisemblables de bilan de matière pour l'aquifère des Hautes Plaines prennent en compte des scénarios d'écoulement avec drainance mais sans réactions, des écoulements avec réactions mais sans drainance et des écoulements sans réactions ni drainance. Les mécanismes de recharge et d'évolution chimique déterminés dans cette étude sont en accord avec ceux mis en évidence dans d'autres aquifères du centre sud et du sud-ouest des états-Unis. Resumen. El acuífero libre de High Plains (Ogallala) es el mayor de los Estados Unidos y supone la fuente principal de abastecimiento en la región semiárida del sur de High Plains (Texas) y de Nuevo México. Los análisis de agua y suelos realizados al nordeste de Amarillo (Texas), junto con los datos de otros estudios regionales, indican que los procesos que tienen lugar durante la recarga del acuífero controlan la composición de las aguas subterráneas en la mitad septentrional de los High Plains del Sur. Los datos isotópicos y hidroquímicos son coherentes con una secuencia de episodios de precipitación, concentración de solutos en la parte superior del suelo por evapotranspiración, escorrentía, e infiltración a través de 'playas' y zanjas (modificadas localmente por los flujos de retorno de aguas residuales y de excedentes de riego).

ChAd63-MVA-vectored blood-stage malaria vaccines targeting MSP1 and AMA1: assessment of efficacy against mosquito bite challenge in humans.

PubMed

Sheehy, Susanne H; Duncan, Christopher J A; Elias, Sean C; Choudhary, Prateek; Biswas, Sumi; Halstead, Fenella D; Collins, Katharine A; Edwards, Nick J; Douglas, Alexander D; Anagnostou, Nicholas A; Ewer, Katie J; Havelock, Tom; Mahungu, Tabitha; Bliss, Carly M; Miura, Kazutoyo; Poulton, Ian D; Lillie, Patrick J; Antrobus, Richard D; Berrie, Eleanor; Moyle, Sarah; Gantlett, Katherine; Colloca, Stefano; Cortese, Riccardo; Long, Carole A; Sinden, Robert E; Gilbert, Sarah C; Lawrie, Alison M; Doherty, Tom; Faust, Saul N; Nicosia, Alfredo; Hill, Adrian V S; Draper, Simon J

2012-12-01

The induction of cellular immunity, in conjunction with antibodies, may be essential for vaccines to protect against blood-stage infection with the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. We have shown that prime-boost delivery of P. falciparum blood-stage antigens by chimpanzee adenovirus 63 (ChAd63) followed by the attenuated orthopoxvirus MVA is safe and immunogenic in healthy adults. Here, we report on vaccine efficacy against controlled human malaria infection delivered by mosquito bites. The blood-stage malaria vaccines were administered alone, or together (MSP1+AMA1), or with a pre-erythrocytic malaria vaccine candidate (MSP1+ME-TRAP). In this first human use of coadministered ChAd63-MVA regimes, we demonstrate immune interference whereby responses against merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1) are dominant over apical membrane antigen 1 (AMA1) and ME-TRAP. We also show that induction of strong cellular immunity against MSP1 and AMA1 is safe, but does not impact on parasite growth rates in the blood. In a subset of vaccinated volunteers, a delay in time to diagnosis was observed and sterilizing protection was observed in one volunteer coimmunized with MSP1+AMA1-results consistent with vaccine-induced pre-erythrocytic, rather than blood-stage, immunity. These data call into question the utility of T cell-inducing blood-stage malaria vaccines and suggest that the focus should remain on high-titer antibody induction against susceptible antigen targets.

Effet de la substitution du cuivre par du lithium sur les proprietes de l'oxyde spinelle lithium(x)cuivre(y-x)cobalt(3-y)oxygen(4) etudie pour l'electrocatalyse de la reaction de degagement de l'oxygene en milieu alcalin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fatih, Khalid

L'electrolyse de l'eau demeure la seule technologie industrielle de generation de l'hydrogene et de l'oxygene tres purs sans rejet de CO2 dans l'atmosphere, ce qui le rend tres attrayant par rapport a la combustion de carburants fossiles qui provoque presentement de serieux problemes environnementaux. Dans le but d'ameliorer le rendement de ce procede, nous avons developpe de nouveaux materiaux d'anode peu couteux, a base de l'oxyde mixte CuyCo3-yO 4, qui possedent une cinetique rapide pour la reaction de degagement de l'oxygene (RDO). Cette reaction suscite un interet particulier en raison de la surtension d'activation relativement elevee a l'anode qui cause la principale perte de rendement du procede. Une etude systematique a ete effectuee sur la substitution du Cu par du Li (0 a 40%), afin d'elucider les proprietes electrocatalytiques des oxydes LixCuy-xCo3-yO4. Ces oxydes, prepares sous forme de poudres par decomposition thermique des nitrates precurseurs entre 300 et 500°C, ont montre (DRX et FTIR) une structure spinelle inverse non-stcechiometrique avec une diminution du volume de la maille cristalline. La surface specifique par BET est d'environ 6 m2 g-1. Le pcn, obtenu par titrage acido-basique, a indique une diminution de la force du lien M-OH avec le taux du Li dans l'oxyde. Les analyses par XPS, realisees sur des films d'oxyde prepares par nebulisation reactive sur un substrat lisse de nickel, revelent un enrichissement de la surface en Cu a partir de 30% Li, et la presence des cations de surface Co2+, Co3+, Cu +, Cu2+ et Cu3+. La concentration de ce dernier montre un maximum a 10 et 20% Li. Suite a la substitution du Cu par du Li, la compensation de la charge serait assuree principalement par la formation d'especes Cu3+ pour les oxydes contenant jusqu'a 20% Li, et par la formation d'especes Co3+ aux taux de substitution superieurs. Les micrographies MEB montrent une morphologie hemispherique des particules d'oxyde reparties uniformement sur le substrat de nickel avec une tendance a l'agglomeration lorsque le taux de Li est accru. Les micrographies AFM revelent une micro-porosite de ces particules d'oxyde. Les films minces deposes sur un substrat de verre ont montre une conductivite tres interessante de l'ordre de 103O-1 cm-1 pour LixCuy-x Co3-yO4 comparee a 2,8 O-1 cm-1 pour Co3O4. La spectroscopie d'impedance a permis de distinguer les processus de la surface interne des films d'oxydes de ceux de l'interface electrode/electrolyte. Les courbes Mott-Schottky (1/C2 en fonction du potentiel) montrent que les films d'oxyde se comportent comme des semi-conducteurs de type p tres dopes (degeneres). Le potentiel de bandes plates et la densite des porteurs de charge majoritaires des oxydes LixCuy-xCo3-yO4 sont de l'ordre de 0,48 a 0,52 V et 1019 a 10 20 cm-3 respectivement. Pour Co 3O4 ces parametres sont de 0,47 V et ≈10 18 cm-3. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

Results from tandem Phase 1 studies evaluating the safety, reactogenicity and immunogenicity of the vaccine candidate antigen Plasmodium falciparum FVO merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP142) administered intramuscularly with adjuvant system AS01

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background The development of an asexual blood stage vaccine against Plasmodium falciparum malaria based on the major merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP1) antigen is founded on the protective efficacy observed in preclinical studies and induction of invasion and growth inhibitory antibody responses. The 42 kDa C-terminus of MSP1 has been developed as the recombinant protein vaccine antigen, and the 3D7 allotype, formulated with the Adjuvant System AS02A, has been evaluated extensively in human clinical trials. In preclinical rabbit studies, the FVO allele of MSP142 has been shown to have improved immunogenicity over the 3D7 allele, in terms of antibody titres as well as growth inhibitory activity of antibodies against both the heterologous 3D7 and homologous FVO parasites. Methods Two Phase 1 clinical studies were conducted to examine the safety, reactogenicity and immunogenicity of the FVO allele of MSP142 in the adjuvant system AS01 administered intramuscularly at 0-, 1-, and 2-months: one in the USA and, after evaluation of safety data results, one in Western Kenya. The US study was an open-label, dose escalation study of 10 and 50 μg doses of MSP142 in 26 adults, while the Kenya study, evaluating 30 volunteers, was a double-blind, randomized study of only the 50 μg dose with a rabies vaccine comparator. Results In these studies it was demonstrated that this vaccine formulation has an acceptable safety profile and is immunogenic in malaria-naïve and malaria-experienced populations. High titres of anti-MSP1 antibodies were induced in both study populations, although there was a limited number of volunteers whose serum demonstrated significant inhibition of blood-stage parasites as measured by growth inhibition assay. In the US volunteers, the antibodies generated exhibited better cross-reactivity to heterologous MSP1 alleles than a MSP1-based vaccine (3D7 allele) previously tested at both study sites. Conclusions Given that the primary effector mechanism for blood stage vaccine targets is humoral, the antibody responses demonstrated to this vaccine candidate, both quantitative (total antibody titres) and qualitative (functional antibodies inhibiting parasite growth) warrant further consideration of its application in endemic settings. Trial registrations Clinical Trials NCT00666380 PMID:23342996

Analysis of RET promoter CpG island methylation using methylation-specific PCR (MSP), pyrosequencing, and methylation-sensitive high-resolution melting (MS-HRM): impact on stage II colon cancer patient outcome.

PubMed

Draht, Muriel X G; Smits, Kim M; Jooste, Valérie; Tournier, Benjamin; Vervoort, Martijn; Ramaekers, Chantal; Chapusot, Caroline; Weijenberg, Matty P; van Engeland, Manon; Melotte, Veerle

2016-01-01

Already since the 1990s, promoter CpG island methylation markers have been considered promising diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive cancer biomarkers. However, so far, only a limited number of DNA methylation markers have been introduced into clinical practice. One reason why the vast majority of methylation markers do not translate into clinical applications is lack of independent validation of methylation markers, often caused by differences in methylation analysis techniques. We recently described RET promoter CpG island methylation as a potential prognostic marker in stage II colorectal cancer (CRC) patients of two independent series. In the current study, we analyzed the RET promoter CpG island methylation of 241 stage II colon cancer patients by direct methylation-specific PCR (MSP), nested-MSP, pyrosequencing, and methylation-sensitive high-resolution melting (MS-HRM). All primers were designed as close as possible to the same genomic region. In order to investigate the effect of different DNA methylation assays on patient outcome, we assessed the clinical sensitivity and specificity as well as the association of RET methylation with overall survival for three and five years of follow-up. Using direct-MSP and nested-MSP, 12.0 % (25/209) and 29.6 % (71/240) of the patients showed RET promoter CpG island methylation. Methylation frequencies detected by pyrosequencing were related to the threshold for positivity that defined RET methylation. Methylation frequencies obtained by pyrosequencing (threshold for positivity at 20 %) and MS-HRM were 13.3 % (32/240) and 13.8 % (33/239), respectively. The pyrosequencing threshold for positivity of 20 % showed the best correlation with MS-HRM and direct-MSP results. Nested-MSP detected RET promoter CpG island methylation in deceased patients with a higher sensitivity (33.1 %) compared to direct-MSP (10.7 %), pyrosequencing (14.4 %), and MS-HRM (15.4 %). While RET methylation frequencies detected by nested-MSP, pyrosequencing, and MS-HRM varied, the prognostic effect seemed similar (HR 1.74, 95 % CI 0.97-3.15; HR 1.85, 95 % CI 0.93-3.86; HR 1.83, 95 % CI 0.92-3.65, respectively). Our results show that upon optimizing and aligning four RET methylation assays with regard to primer location and sensitivity, differences in methylation frequencies and clinical sensitivities are observed; however, the effect on the marker's prognostic outcome is minimal.

Sequence analysis of the msp4 gene of Anaplasma ovis strains

USGS Publications Warehouse

de la Fuente, J.; Atkinson, M.W.; Naranjo, V.; Fernandez de Mera, I. G.; Mangold, A.J.; Keating, K.A.; Kocan, K.M.

2007-01-01

Anaplasma ovis (Rickettsiales: Anaplasmataceae) is a tick-borne pathogen of sheep, goats and wild ruminants. The genetic diversity of A. ovis strains has not been well characterized due to the lack of sequence information. In this study, we evaluated bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) and mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) from Montana for infection with A. ovis by serology and sequence analysis of the msp4 gene. Antibodies to Anaplasma spp. were detected in 37% and 39% of bighorn sheep and mule deer analyzed, respectively. Four new msp4 genotypes were identified. The A. ovis msp4 sequences identified herein were analyzed together with sequences reported previously for the characterization of the genetic diversity of A. ovis strains in comparison with other Anaplasma spp. The results of these studies demonstrated that although A. ovis msp4 genotypes may vary among geographic regions and between sheep and deer hosts, the variation observed was less than the variation observed between A. marginale and A. phagocytophilum strains. The results reported herein further confirm that A. ovis infection occurs in natural wild ruminant populations in Western United States and that bighorn sheep and mule deer may serve as wildlife reservoirs of A. ovis. ?? 2006.

77 FR 38336 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-27

... of Collection: Monitoring for the National Science Foundation's Math and Science Partnership (MSP... evaluation of the Math and Science Partnership (MSP) program. The goals for the program are to (1) Ensure...

77 FR 65908 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-31

...: Monitoring for the National Science Foundation's Math and Science Partnership (MSP) Program. OMB Control No... instruments to be used in the evaluation of the Math and Science Partnership (MSP) program. The goals for the...

Immunogenic properties of a recombinant fusion protein containing the C-terminal 19 kDa of Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein-1 and the innate immunity agonist FliC flagellin of Salmonella typhimurium.

PubMed

Bargieri, Daniel Y; Leite, Juliana A; Lopes, Stefanie C P; Sbrogio-Almeida, Maria Elisabete; Braga, Catarina J M; Ferreira, Luis C S; Soares, Irene S; Costa, Fabio T M; Rodrigues, Mauricio M

2010-04-01

In a recent study, we demonstrated the immunogenic properties of a new malaria vaccine polypeptide based on a 19 kDa C-terminal fragment of the merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP1(19)) from Plasmodium vivax and an innate immunity agonist, the Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium flagellin (FliC). Herein, we tested whether the same strategy, based on the MSP1(19) component of the deadly malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum, could also generate a fusion polypeptide with enhanced immunogenicity. The His(6)FliC-MSP1(19) fusion protein was expressed from a recombinant Escherichia coli and showed preserved in vitro TLR5-binding activity. In contrast to animals injected with His(6)MSP1(19), mice subcutaneously immunised with the recombinant His(6)FliC-MSP1(19) developed strong MSP1(19)-specific systemic antibody responses with a prevailing IgG1 subclass. Incorporation of other adjuvants, such as CpG ODN 1826, complete and incomplete Freund's adjuvants or Quil-A, improved the IgG responses after the second, but not the third, immunising dose. It also resulted in a more balanced IgG subclass response, as evaluated by the IgG1/IgG2c ratio, and higher cell-mediated immune response, as determined by the detection of antigen-specific interferon-gamma secretion by immune spleen cells. MSP1(19)-specific antibodies recognised not only the recombinant protein, but also the native protein expressed on the surface of P. falciparum parasites. Finally, sera from rabbits immunised with the fusion protein alone inhibited the in vitro growth of three different P. falciparum strains. In summary, these results extend our previous observations and further demonstrate that fusion of the innate immunity agonist FliC to Plasmodium antigens is a promising alternative to improve their immunogenicity. (c) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Male Sex Pheromone of the Butterfly Bicyclus anynana: Towards an Evolutionary Analysis

PubMed Central

Nieberding, Caroline M.; de Vos, Helene; Schneider, Maria V.; Lassance, Jean-Marc; Estramil, Natalia; Andersson, Jimmy; Bång, Joakim; Hedenström, Erik; Löfstedt, Christer; Brakefield, Paul M.

2008-01-01

Background Female sex pheromones attracting mating partners over long distances are a major determinant of reproductive isolation and speciation in Lepidoptera. Males can also produce sex pheromones but their study, particularly in butterflies, has received little attention. A detailed comparison of sex pheromones in male butterflies with those of female moths would reveal patterns of conservation versus novelty in the associated behaviours, biosynthetic pathways, compounds, scent-releasing structures and receiving systems. Here we assess whether the African butterfly Bicyclus anynana, for which genetic, genomic, phylogenetic, ecological and ethological tools are available, represents a relevant model to contribute to such comparative studies. Methodology/Principal Findings Using a multidisciplinary approach, we determined the chemical composition of the male sex pheromone (MSP) in the African butterfly B. anynana, and demonstrated its behavioural activity. First, we identified three compounds forming the presumptive MSP, namely (Z)-9-tetradecenol (Z9-14:OH), hexadecanal (16:Ald ) and 6,10,14-trimethylpentadecan-2-ol (6,10,14-trime-15-2-ol), and produced by the male secondary sexual structures, the androconia. Second, we described the male courtship sequence and found that males with artificially reduced amounts of MSP have a reduced mating success in semi-field conditions. Finally, we could restore the mating success of these males by perfuming them with the synthetic MSP. Conclusions/Significance This study provides one of the first integrative analyses of a MSP in butterflies. The toolkit it has developed will enable the investigation of the type of information about male quality that is conveyed by the MSP in intraspecific communication. Interestingly, the chemical structure of B. anynana MSP is similar to some sex pheromones of female moths making a direct comparison of pheromone biosynthesis between male butterflies and female moths relevant to future research. Such a comparison will in turn contribute to understanding the evolution of sex pheromone production and reception in butterflies. PMID:18648495

Changes and correlates in multiple sexual partnerships among Chinese adult women--population-based surveys in 2000 and 2006.

PubMed

Yingying, Huang; Smith, Kumi; Suiming, Pan

2011-06-01

The sexual transmission of HIV and STI is becoming a major public health concern in China. However, studies on sexuality in China remain scant, particularly those that analyze female sexuality. This study is to investigate the prevalence of multiple sexual partnerships (MSP) among adult women, and to examine trends and correlates for having more than one lifetime sexual partner. MSP, coded as having one or none vs. two or more lifetime sexual partners, was the key binary outcome measure. The data were from two national probability surveys on sexual behaviors in China carried out in 2000 and 2006. The sample size of adult women was 1899 in 2000 (total sample n=3812), and 2626 in 2006 (n=5404). Overall prevalence of MSP increased from 8.1% in 2000 to 29.6% in 2006 (chi-square test, significance = 0.000). The most rapid changes took place among women with less education, those who worked in blue-collar jobs and lower social-status positions, and those living in rural areas or small towns. Women who were better educated, lived in big cities, and held management-level occupations exhibited less change but had a higher baselines prevalence of MSP, suggesting that changes in MSP behavior may occur initially among women of higher socioeconomic status. Based on the 2006 data-set, significant positive correlates of MSP included more years of education, being in a long-term relationship, being middle aged, having a lower-status job, going out dancing at entertainments venues, and being a state of overall health in the past 12 months. The significant recent increase in MSP among women reinforces the need to examine China's sexual revolution in the context of a rapidly transitioning society. Findings regarding female sexuality also raise new questions to be explored in further sexuality studies, in order to better understand population sexual behaviors and to inform future HIV-prevention efforts.

Inverse problem in hydrogeology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carrera, Jesús; Alcolea, Andrés; Medina, Agustín; Hidalgo, Juan; Slooten, Luit J.

2005-03-01

The state of the groundwater inverse problem is synthesized. Emphasis is placed on aquifer characterization, where modelers have to deal with conceptual model uncertainty (notably spatial and temporal variability), scale dependence, many types of unknown parameters (transmissivity, recharge, boundary conditions, etc.), nonlinearity, and often low sensitivity of state variables (typically heads and concentrations) to aquifer properties. Because of these difficulties, calibration cannot be separated from the modeling process, as it is sometimes done in other fields. Instead, it should be viewed as one step in the process of understanding aquifer behavior. In fact, it is shown that actual parameter estimation methods do not differ from each other in the essence, though they may differ in the computational details. It is argued that there is ample room for improvement in groundwater inversion: development of user-friendly codes, accommodation of variability through geostatistics, incorporation of geological information and different types of data (temperature, occurrence and concentration of isotopes, age, etc.), proper accounting of uncertainty, etc. Despite this, even with existing codes, automatic calibration facilitates enormously the task of modeling. Therefore, it is contended that its use should become standard practice. L'état du problème inverse des eaux souterraines est synthétisé. L'accent est placé sur la caractérisation de l'aquifère, où les modélisateurs doivent jouer avec l'incertitude des modèles conceptuels (notamment la variabilité spatiale et temporelle), les facteurs d'échelle, plusieurs inconnues sur différents paramètres (transmissivité, recharge, conditions aux limites, etc.), la non linéarité, et souvent la sensibilité de plusieurs variables d'état (charges hydrauliques, concentrations) des propriétés de l'aquifère. A cause de ces difficultés, le calibrage ne peut êtreséparé du processus de modélisation, comme c'est le cas dans d'autres cas de figure. Par ailleurs, il peut être vu comme une des étapes dans le processus de détermination du comportement de l'aquifère. Il est montré que les méthodes d'évaluation des paramètres actuels ne diffèrent pas si ce n'est dans les détails des calculs informatiques. Il est montré qu'il existe une large panoplie de techniques d'inversion : codes de calcul utilisables par tout-un-chacun, accommodation de la variabilité via la géostatistique, incorporation d'informations géologiques et de différents types de données (température, occurrence, concentration en isotopes, âge, etc.), détermination de l'incertitude. Vu ces développements, la calibration automatique facilite énormément la modélisation. Par ailleurs, il est souhaitable que son utilisation devienne une pratique standardisée. Se sintetiza el estado del problema inverso en aguas subterráneas. El énfasis se ubica en la caracterización de acuíferos, donde los modeladores tienen que enfrentar la incertidumbre del modelo conceptual (principalmente variabilidad temporal y espacial), dependencia de escala, muchos tipos de parámetros desconocidos (transmisividad, recarga, condiciones limitantes, etc), no linealidad, y frecuentemente baja sensibilidad de variables de estado (típicamente presiones y concentraciones) a las propiedades del acuífero. Debido a estas dificultades, no puede separarse la calibración de los procesos de modelado, como frecuentemente se hace en otros campos. En su lugar, debe de visualizarse como un paso en el proceso de enten dimiento del comportamiento del acuífero. En realidad, se muestra que los métodos reales de estimación de parámetros no difieren uno del otro en lo esencial, aunque sí pueden diferir en los detalles computacionales. Se discute que existe amplio espacio para la mejora del problema inverso en aguas subterráneas: desarrollo de códigos amigables alusuario, acomodamiento de variabilidad a través de geoestadística, incorporación de información geológica y diferentes tipos de datos (temperatura, presencia y concentración de isótopos, edad, etc), explicación apropiada de incertidumbre, etc. A pesar de esto, aún con los códigos existentes, la calibración automática facilita enormemente la tarea de modelado. Por lo tanto, se sostiene que su uso debería de convertirse en práctica standard.

Topology of magnetic flux ropes and formation of fossil flux transfer events and boundary layer plasmas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, L. C.; Ma, Z. W.; Fu, Z. F.; Otto, A.

1993-01-01

A mechanism for the formation of fossil flux transfer events and the low-level boundary layer within the framework of multiple X-line reconnection is proposed. Attention is given to conditions for which the bulk of magnetic flux in a flux rope of finite extent has a simple magnetic topology, where the four possible connections of magnetic field lines are: IMF to MSP, MSP to IMF, IMF to IMF, and MSP to MSP. For a sufficient relative shift of the X lines, magnetic flux may enter a flux rope from the magnetosphere and exit into the magnetosphere. This process leads to the formation of magnetic flux ropes which contain a considerable amount of magnetosheath plasma on closed magnetospheric field lines. This process is discussed as a possible explanation for the formation of fossil flux transfer events in the magnetosphere and the formation of the low-latitude boundary layer.

Identification of a novel umami compound in potatoes and potato chips.

PubMed

Zhang, Liyun; Peterson, Devin G

2018-02-01

The influence of frying time on the taste profile of potato chips was characterized. Direct comparison of isolates from potato chip samples fried for 170s and 210s indicated longer frying time increased the perceived umami intensity and decreased the sour intensity. The compounds responsible for the greater umami intensity were identified as monosodium l-pyroglutamate (l-MSpG) and monosodium d-pyroglutamate (d-MSpG). The reduction in sour intensity was attributed to the degradation of d-chlorogenic acid. MSpGs were endogenous in raw potatoes and also thermally generated from glutamic acid during frying. Taste recombination studies further confirmed the contribution of both compounds to the umami character of potato chips. Furthermore, time-intensity taste analysis revealed that topical addition of both l- and d-MSpG enhanced the perceived intensity of the umami taste and the overall flavor characteristic of the potato chips. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

hnRNPA2B1 and hnRNPA1 mutations are rare in patients with "multisystem proteinopathy" and frontotemporal lobar degeneration phenotypes.

PubMed

Le Ber, Isabelle; Van Bortel, Inge; Nicolas, Gael; Bouya-Ahmed, Kawtar; Camuzat, Agnès; Wallon, David; De Septenville, Anne; Latouche, Morwena; Lattante, Serena; Kabashi, Edor; Jornea, Ludmila; Hannequin, Didier; Brice, Alexis

2014-04-01

hnRNPA2B1 and hnRNPA1 mutations have been recently identified by exome sequencing in three families presenting with multisystem proteinopathy (MSP), a rare complex phenotype associating frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD), Paget disease of bone (PDB), inclusion body myopathy (IBM), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). No study has evaluated the exact frequency of these genes in cohorts of MSP or FTD patients so far. We sequenced both genes in 17 patients with MSP phenotypes, and in 60 patients with FTLD and FTLD-ALS to test whether mutations could be implicated in the pathogenesis of these disorders. No disease-causing mutation was identified. We conclude that hnRNPA2B1 and hnRNPA1 mutations are rare in MSP and FTLD spectrum of diseases, although further investigations in larger populations are needed. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Plasmodium vivax merozoite surface protein-3 alpha: a high-resolution marker for genetic diversity studies.

PubMed

Prajapati, Surendra Kumar; Joshi, Hema; Valecha, Neena

2010-06-01

Malaria, an ancient human infectious disease caused by five species of Plasmodium, among them Plasmodium vivax is the most widespread human malaria species and causes huge morbidity to its host. Identification of genetic marker to resolve higher genetic diversity for an ancient origin organism is a crucial task. We have analyzed genetic diversity of P. vivax field isolates using highly polymorphic antigen gene merozoite surface protein-3 alpha (msp-3 alpha) and assessed its suitability as high-resolution genetic marker for population genetic studies. 27 P. vivax field isolates collected during chloroquine therapeutic efficacy study at Chennai were analyzed for genetic diversity. PCR-RFLP was employed to assess the genetic variations using highly polymorphic antigen gene msp-3 alpha. We observed three distinct PCR alleles at msp-3 alpha, and among them allele A showed significantly high frequency (53%, chi2 = 8.22, p = 0.001). PCR-RFLP analysis revealed 14 and 17 distinct RFLP patterns for Hha1 and Alu1 enzymes respectively. Further, RFLP analysis revealed that allele A at msp-3 alpha is more diverse in the population compared with allele B and C. Combining Hha1 and Alu1 RFLP patterns revealed 21 distinct genotypes among 22 isolates reflects higher diversity resolution power of msp-3 alpha in the field isolates. P. vivax isolates from Chennai region revealed substantial amount of genetic diversity and comparison of allelic diversity with other antigen genes and microsatellites suggesting that msp-3 alpha could be a high-resolution marker for genetic diversity studies among P. vivax field isolates.

Genetic diversity in the merozoite surface protein 1 and 2 genes of Plasmodium falciparum from the Artibonite Valley of Haiti.

PubMed

Londono-Renteria, Berlin; Eisele, Thomas P; Keating, Joseph; Bennett, Adam; Krogstad, Donald J

2012-01-01

Describing genetic diversity of the Plasmodium falciparum parasite provides important information about the local epidemiology of malaria. In this study, we examined the genetic diversity of P. falciparum isolates from the Artibonite Valley in Haiti using the allelic families of merozoite surface protein 1 and 2 genes (msp-1 and msp-2). The majority of study subjects infected with P. falciparum had a single parasite genotype (56% for msp-1 and 69% for msp-2: n=79); 9 distinct msp-1 genotypes were identified by size differences on agarose gels. K1 was the most polymorphic allelic family with 5 genotypes (amplicons from 100 to 300 base pairs [bp]); RO33 was the least polymorphic, with a single genotype (120-bp). Although both msp-2 alleles (3D7/IC1, FC27) had similar number of genotypes (n=4), 3D7/IC1 was more frequent (85% vs. 26%). All samples were screened for the presence of the K76T mutation on the P. falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter (pfcrt) gene with 10 of 79 samples positive. Of the 2 (out of 10) samples from individuals follow-up for 21 days, P. falciparum parasites were present through day 7 after treatment with chloroquine. No parasites were found on day 21. Our results suggest that the level of genetic diversity is low in this area of Haiti, which is consistent with an area of low transmission. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Mass segregation phenomena using the Hamiltonian Mean Field model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steiner, J. R.; Zolacir, T. O.

2018-02-01

Mass segregation problem is thought to be entangled with the dynamical evolution of young stellar clusters (Olczak, 2011 [1]). This is a common sense in the astrophysical community. In this work, the Hamiltonian Mean Field (HMF) model with different masses is studied. A mass segregation phenomenon (MSP) arises from this study as a dynamical feature. The MSP in the HMF model is a consequence of the Landau damping (LD) and it appears in systems that the interactions belongs to a long range regime. Actually HMF is a toy model known to show up the main characteristics of astrophysical systems due to the mean field character of the potential and for different masses, as stellar and galaxies clusters, also exhibits MSP. It is in this sense that computational simulations focusing in what happens over the mass distribution in the phase space are performed for this system. What happens through the violent relaxation period and what stands for the quasi-stationary states (QSS) of this dynamics is analyzed. The results obtained support the fact that MSP is observed already in the violent relaxation time and is maintained during the QSS. Some structures in the mass distribution function are observed. As a result of this study the mass distribution is determined by the system dynamics and is independent of the dimensionality of the system. MSP occurs in a one dimensional system as a result of the long range forces that acts in the system. In this approach MSP emerges as a dynamical feature. We also show that for HMF with different masses, the dynamical time scale is N.

ChAd63-MVA–vectored Blood-stage Malaria Vaccines Targeting MSP1 and AMA1: Assessment of Efficacy Against Mosquito Bite Challenge in Humans

PubMed Central

Sheehy, Susanne H; Duncan, Christopher JA; Elias, Sean C; Choudhary, Prateek; Biswas, Sumi; Halstead, Fenella D; Collins, Katharine A; Edwards, Nick J; Douglas, Alexander D; Anagnostou, Nicholas A; Ewer, Katie J; Havelock, Tom; Mahungu, Tabitha; Bliss, Carly M; Miura, Kazutoyo; Poulton, Ian D; Lillie, Patrick J; Antrobus, Richard D; Berrie, Eleanor; Moyle, Sarah; Gantlett, Katherine; Colloca, Stefano; Cortese, Riccardo; Long, Carole A; Sinden, Robert E; Gilbert, Sarah C; Lawrie, Alison M; Doherty, Tom; Faust, Saul N; Nicosia, Alfredo; Hill, Adrian VS; Draper, Simon J

2012-01-01

The induction of cellular immunity, in conjunction with antibodies, may be essential for vaccines to protect against blood-stage infection with the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. We have shown that prime-boost delivery of P. falciparum blood-stage antigens by chimpanzee adenovirus 63 (ChAd63) followed by the attenuated orthopoxvirus MVA is safe and immunogenic in healthy adults. Here, we report on vaccine efficacy against controlled human malaria infection delivered by mosquito bites. The blood-stage malaria vaccines were administered alone, or together (MSP1+AMA1), or with a pre-erythrocytic malaria vaccine candidate (MSP1+ME-TRAP). In this first human use of coadministered ChAd63-MVA regimes, we demonstrate immune interference whereby responses against merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1) are dominant over apical membrane antigen 1 (AMA1) and ME-TRAP. We also show that induction of strong cellular immunity against MSP1 and AMA1 is safe, but does not impact on parasite growth rates in the blood. In a subset of vaccinated volunteers, a delay in time to diagnosis was observed and sterilizing protection was observed in one volunteer coimmunized with MSP1+AMA1—results consistent with vaccine-induced pre-erythrocytic, rather than blood-stage, immunity. These data call into question the utility of T cell-inducing blood-stage malaria vaccines and suggest that the focus should remain on high-titer antibody induction against susceptible antigen targets. PMID:23089736

Genetic diversity of Plasmodium Vivax revealed by the merozoite surface protein-1 icb5-6 fragment.

PubMed

Ruan, Wei; Zhang, Ling-Ling; Feng, Yan; Zhang, Xuan; Chen, Hua-Liang; Lu, Qiao-Yi; Yao, Li-Nong; Hu, Wei

2017-06-05

Plasmodium vivax remains a potential cause of morbidity and mortality for people living in its endemic areas. Understanding the genetic diversity of P. vivax from different regions is valuable for studying population dynamics and tracing the origins of parasites. The PvMSP-1 gene is highly polymorphic and has been used as a marker in many P. vivax population studies. The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic diversity of the PvMSP-1 gene icb5-6 fragment and to provide more genetic polymorphism data for further studies on P. vivax population structure and tracking of the origin of clinical cases. Nested PCR and sequencing of the PvMSP-1 icb5-6 marker were performed to obtain the nucleotide sequences of 95 P. vivax isolates collected from Zhejiang province, China. To investigate the genetic diversity of PvMSP-1, the 95 nucleotide sequences of the PvMSP-1 icb5-6 fragment were genotyped and analyzed using DnaSP v5, MEGA software. The 95 P. vivax isolates collected from Zhejiang province were either indigenous cases or imported cases from different regions around the world. A total of 95 sequences ranging from 390 to 460 bp were obtained. The 95 sequences were genotyped into four allele-types (Sal I, Belem, R-III and R-IV) and 17 unique haplotypes. R-III and Sal I were the predominant allele-types. The haplotype diversity (Hd) and nucleotide diversity (Pi) were estimated to be 0.729 and 0.062, indicating that the PvMSP-1 icb5-6 fragment had the highest level of polymorphism due to frequent recombination processes and single nucleotide polymorphism. The values of dN/dS and Tajima's D both suggested neutral selection for the PvMSP-1icb5-6 fragment. In addition, a rare recombinant style of R-IV type was identified. This study presented high genetic diversity in the PvMSP-1 marker among P. vivax strains from around the world. The genetic data is valuable for expanding the polymorphism information on P. vivax, which could be helpful for further study on population dynamics and tracking the origin of P. vivax.

Spatio-temporal analysis of the genetic diversity and complexity of Plasmodium falciparum infections in Kedougou, southeastern Senegal.

PubMed

Niang, Makhtar; Thiam, Laty G; Loucoubar, Cheikh; Sow, Abdourahmane; Sadio, Bacary D; Diallo, Mawlouth; Sall, Amadou A; Toure-Balde, Aissatou

2017-01-19

Genetic analyses of the malaria parasite population and its temporal and spatial dynamics could provide an assessment of the effectiveness of disease control strategies. The genetic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum has been poorly documented in Senegal, and limited data are available from the Kedougou Region. This study examines the spatial and temporal variation of the genetic diversity and complexity of P. falciparum infections in acute febrile patients in Kedougou, southeastern Senegal. A total of 263 sera from patients presenting with acute febrile illness and attending Kedougou health facilities between July 2009 and July 2013 were obtained from a collection established as part of arbovirus surveillance in Kedougou. Samples identified as P. falciparum by nested PCR were characterized for their genetic diversity and complexity using msp-1 and msp-2 polymorphic markers. Samples containing only P. falciparum accounted for 60.83% (160/263) of the examined samples. All three msp-1 allelic families (K1, MAD20 and RO33) and two msp-2 allelic families (FC27 and 3D7) were detected in all villages investigated over the 5-year collection period. The average genotype per allelic family was comparable between villages. Frequencies of msp-1 and msp-2 allelic types showed no correlation with age (Fisher's exact test, P = 0.59) or gender (Fisher's exact test, P = 0.973), and were similarly distributed throughout the 5-year sampling period (Fisher's exact test, P = 0.412) and across villages (Fisher's exact test, P = 0.866). Mean multiplicity of infection (MOI) for both msp-1 and msp-2 was highest in Kedougou village (2.25 and 2.21, respectively) and among younger patients aged ≤ 15 years (2.12 and 2.00, respectively). The mean MOI was highest in 2009 and decreased progressively onward. Characterization of the genetic diversity and complexity of P. falciparum infections in Kedougou revealed no spatio-temporal variation in the genetic diversity of P. falciparum isolates. However, mean MOI varied with time of sera collection and decreased over the course of the study (July 2009 to July 2013). This suggests a slow progressive decrease of malaria transmission intensity in Kedougou Region despite the limited impact of preventive and control measures implemented by the National Malaria Control Programme on malaria morbidity and mortality.

Substructure and strengthening of heavily deformed single and two-phase metallic materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gil Sevillano, J.

1991-06-01

Work hardening of single-phase crystalline materials (and to some extent, coarse two-phase and dispersion hardened materials too) at low temperatures results from the competition of two dynamic processes: dislocation accumulation, during the long-range gliding of mobile dislocations and dynamic recovery, involving local rearrangements and length annihilation from mobile and stored dislocation interactions. Its complete understanding would be very useful for designing materials with maximized strength after heavy cold work. However, modelling of the strain-induced evolution of the dislocation substructure, an essential ingredient of any work hardening theory, is still far from satisfactory. On the other hand, some heavily deformed ductile two-phase in situ composites are only second to whiskers among the strongest metallic materials. At first sight, the main obstacle geometry for dislocation glide in lamellar or multifilamentary in situ composites being clear-cut, it can be thought that their strength and work hardening are completely understood. However, this is not so and several schools of thought propose different interpretations for the exaggerated departure of the stress-strain curves of in situ composites from the rule-of-mixtures curves built from those of their bulk components. This paper aims to discuss such interpretations. The composite Cu-Nb is taken as model material owing to the extensive and detailed mechanical and microstructural data available in the literature, including different deformation temperatures and two different strain paths. Fine pearlite Fe-Fe3C is the other obvious reference. Le durcissement par déformation des matériaux cristallins monophasés (et, dans une certaine mesure, des matériaux biphasés à grande dimension de phases, et des matériaux renforcés par une phase dispersée) à basse température résulte d'une compétition entre deux processus dynamiques: l'accumulation de dislocations pendant le glissement des dislocations sur de longues distances, et la restauration dynamique, comprenant des réarrangements locaux et des annihilations par réaction entre dislocations mobiles et accumulées. La compréhension complète de ces mécanismes serait très utile à la conception de matériaux de résistance optimisée par écrouissage. Cependant, la modélisation de l'évolution de la sous structure induite par déformation, qui est un ingrédient essentiel de toute théorie du durcissement, est encore loin d'être satisfaisante. Par ailleurs, certains composites in situ biphasés écrouis viennent juste après les whiskers parmi les matériaux métalliques les plus résistants. A première vue, le principal obstacle géométrique au glissement des dislocations dans les composites in situ lamellaires ou à fibres étant évident, on peut penser que leur résistance et leur durcissement sont parfaitement compris. Cependant, il n'en est rien et plusieurs écoles de pensée proposent diverses interprétations pour les écarts exagérés des courbes contrainte-déformation des composites in situ, par rapport aux courbes obtenues par la loi des mélanges. Le but de cet article est de discuter ces interprétations. Le composite Cu-Nb est choisi comme modèle, à cause de l'abondance des données mécaniques et microstructurales disponibles dans la littérature, pour diverses températures et chemins de déformation. La perlite fine Fe-Fe3C est l'autre référence évidente.

78 FR 43785 - Exemptive Order Regarding Compliance With Certain Swap Regulations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-22

... the MSP definition in Commission regulation 1.3(hhh). When a person holds swap positions above those...(ggg)(4) or in its calculation of whether it is an MSP for purposes of Commission regulation 1.3(hhh...

Munchausen syndrome and Munchausen syndrome by proxy in a student nurse.

PubMed

Yonge, Olive; Haase, Mary

2004-01-01

Most faculty are not prepared for the possibility of encountering Munchausen syndrome (MS) in nursing students and Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSP) in nursing students' children. When confronted with MS or MSP, their first reaction is often hostility coupled with a sense of betrayal. Given that individuals with this condition are attracted to helping professions, the authors describe both conditions in a case in which a nursing student presented with MS and the student's daughter was a victim of MSP. The focus is on protection of any children and the public, psychiatric treatment for the offender, and assistance for faculty.

Isoschizomers and amplified fragment length polymorphism for the detection of specific cytosine methylation changes.

PubMed

Ruiz-García, Leonor; Cabezas, Jose Antonio; de María, Nuria; Cervera, María-Teresa

2010-01-01

Different molecular techniques have been developed to study either the global level of methylated cytosines or methylation at specific gene sequences. One of them is a modification of the Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) technique that has been used to study methylation of anonymous CCGG sequences in different fungi, plant and animal species. The main variation of this technique is based on the use of isoschizomers with different methylation sensitivity (such as HpaII and MspI) as a frequent cutter restriction enzyme. For each sample, AFLP analysis is performed using both EcoRI/HpaII and EcoRI/MspI digested samples. Comparative analysis between EcoRI/HpaII and EcoRI/MspI fragment patterns allows the identification of two types of polymorphisms: (1) "Methylation-insensitive polymorphisms" that show common EcoRI/HpaII and EcoRI/MspI patterns but are detected as polymorphic amplified fragments among samples; and (2) "Methylation-sensitive polymorphisms" that are associated with amplified fragments differing in their presence or absence or in their intensity between EcoRI/HpaII and EcoRI/MspI patterns. This chapter describes a detailed protocol of this technique and discusses modifications that can be applied to adjust the technology to different species of interest.

Analysis of DNA Cytosine Methylation Patterns Using Methylation-Sensitive Amplification Polymorphism (MSAP).

PubMed

Guevara, María Ángeles; de María, Nuria; Sáez-Laguna, Enrique; Vélez, María Dolores; Cervera, María Teresa; Cabezas, José Antonio

2017-01-01

Different molecular techniques have been developed to study either the global level of methylated cytosines or methylation at specific gene sequences. One of them is the methylation-sensitive amplified polymorphism technique (MSAP) which is a modification of amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP). It has been used to study methylation of anonymous CCGG sequences in different fungi, plants, and animal species. The main variation of this technique resides on the use of isoschizomers with different methylation sensitivity (such as HpaII and MspI) as a frequent-cutter restriction enzyme. For each sample, MSAP analysis is performed using both EcoRI/HpaII- and EcoRI/MspI-digested samples. A comparative analysis between EcoRI/HpaII and EcoRI/MspI fragment patterns allows the identification of two types of polymorphisms: (1) methylation-insensitive polymorphisms that show common EcoRI/HpaII and EcoRI/MspI patterns but are detected as polymorphic amplified fragments among samples and (2) methylation-sensitive polymorphisms which are associated with the amplified fragments that differ in their presence or absence or in their intensity between EcoRI/HpaII and EcoRI/MspI patterns. This chapter describes a detailed protocol of this technique and discusses the modifications that can be applied to adjust the technology to different species of interest.

Identification and characterization of epitopes on Plasmodium knowlesi merozoite surface protein-142 (MSP-142) using synthetic peptide library and phage display library.

PubMed

Cheong, Fei Wen; Fong, Mun Yik; Lau, Yee Ling

2016-02-01

Plasmodium knowlesi can cause potentially life threatening human malaria. The Plasmodium merozoite surface protein-142 (MSP-142) is a potential target for malaria blood stage vaccine, and for diagnosis of malaria. Two epitope mapping techniques were used to identify the potential epitopes within P. knowlesi MSP-142. Nine and 14 potential epitopes were identified using overlapping synthetic peptide library and phage display library, respectively. Two regions on P. knowlesi MSP-142 (amino acid residues 37-95 and residues 240-289) were identified to be the potential dominant epitope regions. Two of the prominent epitopes, P10 (TAKDGMEYYNKMGELYKQ) and P31 (RCLLGFKEVGGKCVPASI), were evaluated using mouse model. P10- and P31-immunized mouse sera reacted with recombinant P. knowlesi MSP-142, with the IgG isotype distribution of IgG2b>IgG1>IgG2a>IgG3. Significant higher level of cytokines interferon-gamma and interleukin-2 was detected in P31-immunized mice. Both P10 and P31 could be the suitable epitope candidates to be used in malaria vaccine designs and immunodiagnostic assays, provided further evaluation is needed to validate the potential uses of these epitopes. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Single-molecule DNA detection with an engineered MspA protein nanopore

PubMed Central

Butler, Tom Z.; Pavlenok, Mikhail; Derrington, Ian M.; Niederweis, Michael; Gundlach, Jens H.

2008-01-01

Nanopores hold great promise as single-molecule analytical devices and biophysical model systems because the ionic current blockades they produce contain information about the identity, concentration, structure, and dynamics of target molecules. The porin MspA of Mycobacterium smegmatis has remarkable stability against environmental stresses and can be rationally modified based on its crystal structure. Further, MspA has a short and narrow channel constriction that is promising for DNA sequencing because it may enable improved characterization of short segments of a ssDNA molecule that is threaded through the pore. By eliminating the negative charge in the channel constriction, we designed and constructed an MspA mutant capable of electronically detecting and characterizing single molecules of ssDNA as they are electrophoretically driven through the pore. A second mutant with additional exchanges of negatively-charged residues for positively-charged residues in the vestibule region exhibited a factor of ≈20 higher interaction rates, required only half as much voltage to observe interaction, and allowed ssDNA to reside in the vestibule ≈100 times longer than the first mutant. Our results introduce MspA as a nanopore for nucleic acid analysis and highlight its potential as an engineerable platform for single-molecule detection and characterization applications. PMID:19098105

Real-time colorimetric detection of DNA methylation of the PAX1 gene in cervical scrapings for cervical cancer screening with thiol-labeled PCR primers and gold nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Huang, Jin; Liou, Yu-Ligh; Kang, Ya-Nan; Tan, Zhi-Rong; Peng, Ming-Jing; Zhou, Hong-Hao

2016-01-01

Background DNA methylation can induce carcinogenesis by silencing key tumor suppressor genes. Analysis of aberrant methylation of tumor suppressor genes can be used as a prognostic and predictive biomarker for cancer. In this study, we propose a colorimetric method for the detection of DNA methylation of the paired box gene 1 (PAX1) gene in cervical scrapings obtained from 42 patients who underwent cervical colposcopic biopsy. Methods A thiolated methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP) primer was used to generate MSP products labeled with the thiol group at one end. After bisulfite conversion and MSP amplification, the unmodified gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were placed in a reaction tube and NaCl was added to induce aggregation of bare AuNPs without generating polymerase chain reaction products. After salt addition, the color of AuNPs remained red in the methylated PAX1 gene samples because of binding to the MSP-amplified products. By contrast, the color of the AuNP colloid solution changed from red to blue in the non-methylated PAX1 gene samples because of aggregation of AuNPs in the absence of the MSP-amplified products. Furthermore, PAX1 methylation was quantitatively detected in cervical scrapings of patients with varied pathological degrees of cervical cancer. Conventional quantitative MSP (qMSP) was also performed for comparison. Results The two methods showed a significant correlation of the methylation frequency of the PAX1 gene in cervical scrapings with severity of cervical cancer (n=42, P<0.05). The results of the proposed method showed that the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUCs) of PAX1 were 0.833, 0.742, and 0.739 for the detection of cervical intraepithelial neoplasms grade 2 and worse lesions (CIN2+), cervical intraepithelial neoplasms grade 3 and worse lesions (CIN3+), and squamous cell carcinoma, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity for detecting CIN2+ lesions were 0.941 and 0.600, respectively, with a cutoff value of 31.27%. The proposed method also showed superior sensitivity over qMSP methods for the detection of CIN2+ and CIN3+ (0.941 vs 0.824 and 1.000 vs 0.800, respectively). Furthermore, the novel method exhibited higher AUC (0.833) for the detection of CIN2+ than qMSP (0.807). Conclusion The results of thiol-labeled AuNP method were clearly observed by the naked eyes without requiring any expensive equipment. Therefore, the thiol-labeled AuNP method could be a simple but efficient strategy for cervical cancer screening. PMID:27789946

On a phase transformation produced by mechanical activation in iron pyrite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eymery, J.-P.

1999-02-01

The behaviour of pyrite in the process of mechanical milling in air has been examined. Milled powders were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Mössbauer spectroscopy working in transmission geometry and X-ray diffraction. In the presence of oxygen, pyrite can readily be transformed to ferrous sulphate monohydrate, which indicates that the Fe(II) goes from a low-spin state to to a high-spin state. The transformation mechanism is saturated after about 60hours milling, but however it can be markedly prolonged by further ageing at room temperature. The results also indicate that mechanical milling is a useful room temperature process of material production. On a étudié le comportement de la pyrite au cours de broyages mécaniques réalisés à l'air. Les poudres broyées ont été analysées par microscopie électronique à balayage, spectroscopie Mössbauer fonctionnant en géométrie de transmission et diffraction des rayonsX. En présence d'oxygène, la pyrite se transforme immédiatement en sulfate de fer monohydraté, ce qui correspond pour Fe(II) au passage de l'état bas spin à l'état haut spin. Le mécanisme de la transformation est saturé après 60heures de broyage environ, mais cependant il peut être notablement prolongé par un vieillissement ultérieur à la température ambiante. Les résultats montrent aussi que le broyage mécanique constitue un processus utile de fabrication des matériaux à l'ambiante.

Le potentiel de l'asteroseismologie pour les etoiles sous-naines de type B

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Charpinet, Stephane

L'objectif principal de cette thèse consiste à évaluer les possibilités que les étoiles sous naines de type B, aussi appelées sdB, puissent développer des variations de luminosité engendrées par des phénomènes de pulsations. Dans la mesure où, au commencement de cette étude, les sdB ne sont pas connues pour montrer ce type de comportement, notre approche s'effectue exclusivement sur des bases théoriques visant à déterminer, par le calcul, si ces étoiles ont le potentiel pour devenir instables. Le cas échéant, il s'agira d'évaluer quels sont les résultats susceptibles d'émerger d'un sondage de la structure interne de ces étoiles avec les méthodes de l'astéroséismologie. Après avoir introduit le contexte et les outils théoriques nécessaires à ce projet (théorie des pulsations stellaires et modèles d'étoiles sous-naines de type B), la démarche passe obligatoirement par une étude exhaustive des propriétés des modes de pulsation dans ces étoiles. Nous l'avons entreprise de manière systématique afin d'évaluer et de comprendre les comportements des oscillations en fonction des différents paramètres physiques qui caractérisent une sdB. Par souci de complétude, nous étudions également les rapports qu'entretiennent évolution et périodes de pulsation au cours de la phase sdB. Par la suite, fort des connaissances nouvellement acquises, nous nous lançons dans l'étude de la stabilité des modes d'oscillation, l'objectif étant d'identifier, le cas échéant, un mécanisme capable de déstabiliser, dans certaines conditions, une fraction de ces étoiles. Par cette approche, nous déterminons qu'un mécanisme κ associé à une région d'ionisation partielle de l'élément fer agit efficacement dans l'enveloppe des sdB si, toutefois, le fer y est présent en quantités extra- solaires. Nous montrons alors que des processus de diffusion, déjà fortement suspectes d'exister dans ces étoiles, sont en mesure d'accumuler des quantités de fer largement suffisantes pour engendrer des pulsations, nous conduisant ainsi à avancer la prédiction que des sdB pulsantes doivent exister. L'annonce, indépendante et pratiquement simultanée, de la découverte de véritables sdB pulsantes ainsi que les premières comparaisons entre théorie et observations nous poussent alors à construire des modèles plus sophistiqués-incluant les effets de la diffusion sur le fer-mieux adaptés pour décrire le mécanisme de déstabilisation propose. Nous constatons alors un très bon accord quantitatif entre les propriétés sismiques déduites des modèles théoriques et celles effectivement observées dans les sdB pulsantes, confirmant dès lors le rôle joué par le mécanisme en question. Nous discutons également des aspects reliés à l'étude astéroséismologique de ces étoiles dont l'objectif, ultimement, est d'en sonder l'intérieur. Bien qu'il soit encore prématuré d'appliquer une telle méthode sur les sdB, nous explorons rapidement les moyens pour y parvenir et nous tentons de préciser quels sont les éléments de la structure des sdB que nous pouvons espérer mesurer avec cette technique. Finalement, suite aux résultats satisfaisants obtenus pour les sdB, nous entreprenons de poursuivre l'étude de stabilité sur les modèles évolutifs en phase post-EHB. Nous constatons alors l'existence de modèles instables, identifiables aux étoiles naines blanches de type DAO, pour lesquels des modes g de faible ordre radial sont excités par un mécanisme ɛ associé à la région de brûlage en couche résiduel de l'hydrogène situé à la base de l'enveloppe des modèles. Ce résultat nous conduit ainsi à proposer l'existence d'une autre classe d'étoiles pulsantes parmi les DAO. Contrairement aux sdB, cette prédiction reste toutefois à confirmer par l'observation.

μ-Opioid Receptor Gene A118 G Variants and Persistent Pain Symptoms Among Men and Women Experiencing Motor Vehicle Collision.

PubMed

Linnstaedt, Sarah D; Hu, JunMei; Bortsov, Andrey V; Soward, April C; Swor, Robert; Jones, Jeffrey; Lee, David; Peak, David; Domeier, Robert; Rathlev, Niels; Hendry, Phyllis; McLean, Samuel A

2015-07-01

The μ-opioid receptor 1 (OPRM1) binds endogenous opioids. Increasing evidence suggests that endogenous OPRM1 agonists released at the time of trauma may contribute to the development of posttraumatic musculoskeletal pain (MSP). In this prospective observational study, we evaluated the hypothesis that individuals with an AG or GG genotype at the OPRM1 A118 G allele, which results in a reduced response to opioids, would have less severe MSP 6 weeks after motor vehicle collision (MVC). Based on previous evidence, we hypothesized that this effect would be sex-dependent and most pronounced among women with substantial peritraumatic distress. European American men and women ≥ 18 years of age presenting to the emergency department after MVC and discharged to home after evaluation (N = 948) were enrolled. Assessments included genotyping and 6-week evaluation of overall MSP severity (0-10 numeric rating scale). In linear regression modeling, a significant A118 G Allele × Sex interaction was observed: an AG/GG genotype predicted reduced MSP severity among women with substantial peritraumatic distress (β = -.925, P = .014) but not among all women. In contrast, men with an AG/GG genotype experienced increased MSP severity at 6 weeks (β = .827, P = .019). Further studies are needed to understand the biologic mechanisms mediating observed sex differences in A118 G effects. These results suggest a sex-dependent mechanism by which an emotional response to trauma (distress) contributes to a biologic mechanism (endogenous opioid release) that increases MSP in the weeks after stress exposure. These results also support the hypothesis that endogenous opioids influence pain outcomes differently in men and women. Copyright © 2015 American Pain Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of different levels of mangosteen peel powder supplement on the performance of dairy cows fed concentrate containing yeast fermented cassava chip protein.

PubMed

Polyorach, Sineenart; Wanapat, Metha; Phesatcha, Kampanat; Kang, Sungchhang

2015-12-01

This study aimed to investigate the effect of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) peel powder (MSP) supplementation on feed intake, nutrient digestibility, ruminal fermentation, and milk production in lactating dairy cows fed a concentrate containing yeast fermented cassava chip protein (YEFECAP). Four crossbred dairy cows (50 % Holstein-Friesian and 50 % Thai native breed) in mid-lactation, 404 ± 50.0 kg of body weight and 90 ± 5 day in milk with daily milk production of 9 ± 2.0 kg/day, were randomly assigned according to a 4 × 4 Latin square design to receive 4 dietary treatments. The treatments were different levels of MSP supplementation at 0, 100, 200, and 300 g/head/day. Rice straw was used as a roughage source and fed ad libitum to all cows, and concentrate containing YEFECAP at 200 g/kg concentrate was offered corresponding to concentrate to milk yield ratio at 1:2. Results revealed that feed intake, apparent nutrient digestibility, ruminal pH and temperature, and total volatile fatty acid were not significantly affected by MSP supplementation (P > 0.05). However, increasing levels of MSP supplementation increased molar proportion of propionate while ammonia-nitrogen, acetate, and acetate to propionate ratio were decreased (P < 0.01). Moreover, milk production and economic return were increased linearly (P < 0.01) with the increasing level of MSP supplementation. The present findings suggested that supplementation of MSP especially at 300 g/head/day with concentrate containing YEFECAP at 200 g/kg could improve rumen fermentation efficiency, milk production and protein content, and economical return of lactating dairy cows fed on rice straw.

Alpha-keto acid metabolites of organoselenium compounds inhibit histone deacetylase activity in human colon cancer cells.

PubMed

Nian, Hui; Bisson, William H; Dashwood, Wan-Mohaiza; Pinto, John T; Dashwood, Roderick H

2009-08-01

Methylselenocysteine (MSC) and selenomethionine (SM) are two organoselenium compounds receiving interest for their potential anticancer properties. These compounds can be converted to beta-methylselenopyruvate (MSP) and alpha-keto-gamma-methylselenobutyrate (KMSB), alpha-keto acid metabolites that share structural features with the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor butyrate. We tested the organoselenium compounds in an in vitro assay with human HDAC1 and HDAC8; whereas SM and MSC had little or no activity up to 2 mM, MSP and KMSB caused dose-dependent inhibition of HDAC activity. Subsequent experiments identified MSP as a competitive inhibitor of HDAC8, and computational modeling supported a mechanism involving reversible interaction with the active site zinc atom. In human colon cancer cells, acetylated histone H3 levels were increased during the period 0.5-48 h after treatment with MSP and KMSB, and there was dose-dependent inhibition of HDAC activity. The proportion of cells occupying G(2)/M of the cell cycle was increased at 10-50 microM MSP and KMSB, and apoptosis was induced, as evidenced by morphological changes, Annexin V staining and increased cleaved caspase-3, -6, -7, -9 and poly(adenosine diphosphate-ribose)polymerase. P21WAF1, a well-established target gene of clinically used HDAC inhibitors, was increased in MSP- and KMSB-treated colon cancer cells at both the messenger RNA and protein level, and there was enhanced P21WAF1 promoter activity. These studies confirm that in addition to targeting redox-sensitive signaling molecules, alpha-keto acid metabolites of organoselenium compounds alter HDAC activity and histone acetylation status in colon cancer cells, as recently observed in human prostate cancer cells.

Molecular cloning and characterization of satellite DNA sequences from constitutive heterochromatin of the habu snake (Protobothrops flavoviridis, Viperidae) and the Burmese python (Python bivittatus, Pythonidae).

PubMed

Matsubara, Kazumi; Uno, Yoshinobu; Srikulnath, Kornsorn; Seki, Risako; Nishida, Chizuko; Matsuda, Yoichi

2015-12-01

Highly repetitive DNA sequences of the centromeric heterochromatin provide valuable molecular cytogenetic markers for the investigation of genomic compartmentalization in the macrochromosomes and microchromosomes of sauropsids. Here, the relationship between centromeric heterochromatin and karyotype evolution was examined using cloned repetitive DNA sequences from two snake species, the habu snake (Protobothrops flavoviridis, Crotalinae, Viperidae) and Burmese python (Python bivittatus, Pythonidae). Three satellite DNA (stDNA) families were isolated from the heterochromatin of these snakes: 168-bp PFL-MspI from P. flavoviridis and 196-bp PBI-DdeI and 174-bp PBI-MspI from P. bivittatus. The PFL-MspI and PBI-DdeI sequences were localized to the centromeric regions of most chromosomes in the respective species, suggesting that the two sequences were the major components of the centromeric heterochromatin in these organisms. The PBI-MspI sequence was localized to the pericentromeric region of four chromosome pairs. The PFL-MspI and the PBI-DdeI sequences were conserved only in the genome of closely related species, Gloydius blomhoffii (Crotalinae) and Python molurus, respectively, although their locations on the chromosomes were slightly different. In contrast, the PBI-MspI sequence was also in the genomes of P. molurus and Boa constrictor (Boidae), and additionally localized to the centromeric regions of eight chromosome pairs in B. constrictor, suggesting that this sequence originated in the genome of a common ancestor of Pythonidae and Boidae, approximately 86 million years ago. The three stDNA sequences showed no genomic compartmentalization between the macrochromosomes and microchromosomes, suggesting that homogenization of the centromeric and/or pericentromeric stDNA sequences occurred in the macrochromosomes and microchromosomes of these snakes.

Varenicline decreases nicotine but not alcohol self-administration in genetically selected Marchigian Sardinian alcohol-preferring (msP) rats.

PubMed

Scuppa, Giulia; Cippitelli, Andrea; Toll, Lawrence; Ciccocioppo, Roberto; Ubaldi, Massimo

2015-11-01

Alcohol and nicotine are largely co-abused. Here, we investigated whether concurrent exposure to both addictive drugs influences each other's consumption and whether varenicline attenuates alcohol consumption in the presence of nicotine. Marchigian Sardinian alcohol-preferring (msP) rats trained to simultaneously self-administer oral alcohol (10% v/v) and intravenous nicotine (30μg/kg/inf) were used. Additional groups of rats were trained to self-administer either alcohol or nicotine. Further, msP rats were also trained to self-administer nicotine followed by 22-h/day access to alcohol and water in a two bottle free choice paradigm or water alone. The effects of varenicline (0.0, 0.3, 1.0, 3.0mg/kg, p.o.) on alcohol and nicotine consumption were tested. In a self-administration paradigm, msP rats showed a significantly high level of alcohol and nicotine intake when the drugs were administered alone. However, when access to both drugs occurred concomitantly, the number of nicotine infusions self-administered was significantly decreased. Nicotine self-administration was markedly reduced by varenicline regardless of whether it was self-administered alone or concurrently with alcohol. In a two bottle choice test, varenicline significantly decreased nicotine self-administration but had no influence on alcohol consumption. Varenicline is highly efficacious in decreasing nicotine self-administration either alone or in combination with alcohol. However, varenicline failed to influence both operant responding for alcohol and home-cage alcohol drinking in msP animals. Taken together, our findings suggest that the effects of varenicline could be specific to nicotine under conditions where excessive alcohol drinking is facilitated by genetic factors as in msP rats. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Prevalence and Associated Factors for Musculoskeletal Pain and Disability Among Spanish Music Conservatory Students.

PubMed

Rodríguez-Romero, Beatriz; Pérez-Valiño, Coral; Ageitos-Alonso, Beatriz; Pértega-Díaz, Sonia

2016-12-01

To assess the prevalence of and factors associated with musculoskeletal pain (MSP) and neck and upper limb disability among music conservatory students. An observational study in two Spanish conservatories, investigating a total of 206 students, administered the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, visual analog scale for pain intensity, Neck Disability Index, DASH, and SF-36. Demographic and lifestyle characteristics and musical performance variables were recorded. Regression models were performed to identify variables associated with MSP for the four most affected anatomical regions and with neck and upper limb disability. The locations with the highest prevalence of MSP were the neck, upper back, shoulders, and lower back. Mild disability affected 47% of participants in the neck and 31% in the upper limbs. Mental health (SF-36) was below the average for the general population (45.5±10.2). Women were more likely to suffer neck pain (odds ratio [OR] 1.1-5.2), lower back pain (OR 1.7-8.7), and neck disability (B 0.6-7.8). The risk for shoulder pain was higher in those who played for more hours (OR 1.7-24.7) and lower among those who performed physical activity (OR 0.23-1.00). Disability in the neck (B -0.3) and upper limbs (B -0.4) was associated with poorer mental health (SF-36). MSP is highly prevalent in music students. Neck and upper limb disability were slight to moderate and both were associated with poorer mental health. The main factors associated with MSP were being female, hours spent practicing, and physical activity. Physical and psychological factors should be taken into account in the prevention of MSP in student-musicians.

The unmet needs of Aboriginal Australians with musculoskeletal pain: A mixed method systematic review.

PubMed

Lin, Ivan B; Bunzli, Samantha; Mak, Donna B; Green, Charmaine; Goucke, Roger; Coffin, Juli; O'Sullivan, Peter B

2017-12-15

Musculoskeletal pain (MSP) conditions are the biggest cause of disability and internationally, Indigenous peoples experience a higher burden. There are conflicting reports about Aboriginal Australians and MSP. We conducted a systematic review to describe the prevalence, associated factors, impacts, care access, health care experiences, and factors associated with MSP among Aboriginal Australians. A systematic search of quantitative and qualitative scientific and grey literature (PROSPERO number: CRD42016038342). Articles were appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Due to study heterogeneity a narrative synthesis was conducted. Of 536 articles identified, 18 were included (14 quantitative, 4 qualitative), of high (n=11), medium (n=2) and low (n=5) quality. Prevalences of MSP in Aboriginal populations were similar to or slightly higher than the non-Aboriginal population (prevalence rate ratio 1.1 for back pain, 1.2-1.5 for osteoarthritis (OA), 1.0-2.0 for rheumatoid arthritis). Aboriginal people accessed primary care for knee or hip OA at around half the rate of non-Aboriginal people, and were less than half as likely to have knee or hip replacement surgery. Communication difficulties with health practitioners were the main reason why Aboriginal people with MSP choose not to access care. No articles reported interventions. Findings provide preliminary evidence of an increased MSP burden amongst Aboriginal Australians and, particularly for OA, a mismatch between the disease burden and access to health care. To increase accessibility, health services should initially focus on improving Aboriginal patients' experiences of care, in particular by improving patient-practitioner communication. Implications for care and research are outlined. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

New malaria vaccine candidates based on the Plasmodium vivax Merozoite Surface Protein-1 and the TLR-5 agonist Salmonella Typhimurium FliC flagellin.

PubMed

Bargieri, Daniel Y; Rosa, Daniela S; Braga, Catarina J M; Carvalho, Bruna O; Costa, Fabio T M; Espíndola, Noeli Maria; Vaz, Adelaide José; Soares, Irene S; Ferreira, Luis C S; Rodrigues, Mauricio M

2008-11-11

The present study evaluated the immunogenicity of new malaria vaccine formulations based on the 19kDa C-terminal fragment of Plasmodium vivax Merozoite Surface Protein-1 (MSP1(19)) and the Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium flagellin (FliC), a Toll-like receptor 5 (TLR5) agonist. FliC was used as an adjuvant either admixed or genetically linked to the P. vivax MSP1(19) and administered to C57BL/6 mice via parenteral (s.c.) or mucosal (i.n.) routes. The recombinant fusion protein preserved MSP1(19) epitopes recognized by sera collected from P. vivax infected humans and TLR5 agonist activity. Mice parenterally immunized with recombinant P. vivax MSP1(19) in the presence of FliC, either admixed or genetically linked, elicited strong and long-lasting MSP1(19)-specific systemic antibody responses with a prevailing IgG1 subclass response. Incorporation of another TLR agonist, CpG ODN 1826, resulted in a more balanced response, as evaluated by the IgG1/IgG2c ratio, and higher cell-mediated immune response measured by interferon-gamma secretion. Finally, we show that MSP1(19)-specific antibodies recognized the native protein expressed on the surface of P. vivax parasites harvested from infected humans. The present report proposes a new class of malaria vaccine formulation based on the use of malarial antigens and the innate immunity agonist FliC. It contains intrinsic adjuvant properties and enhanced ability to induce specific humoral and cellular immune responses when administered alone or in combination with other adjuvants.

Poly(I:C) adjuvant strongly enhances parasite-inhibitory antibodies and Th1 response against Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein-1 (42-kDa fragment) in BALB/c mice.

PubMed

Mehrizi, Akram Abouie; Rezvani, Niloufar; Zakeri, Sedigheh; Gholami, Atefeh; Babaeekhou, Laleh

2018-04-01

Malaria vaccine development has been confronted with various challenges such as poor immunogenicity of malaria vaccine candidate antigens, which is considered as the main challenge. However, this problem can be managed using appropriate formulations of antigens and adjuvants. Poly(I:C) is a potent Th1 inducer and a human compatible adjuvant capable of stimulating both B- and T-cell immunity. Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein 1 42 (PfMSP-1 42 ) is a promising vaccine candidate for blood stage of malaria that has faced several difficulties in clinical trials, mainly due to improper adjuvants. Therefore, in the current study, poly(I:C), as a potent Th1 inducer adjuvant, was evaluated to improve the immunogenicity of recombinant PfMSP-1 42 , when compared to CFA/IFA, as reference adjuvant. Poly(I:C) produced high level and titers of anti-PfMSP-1 42 IgG antibodies in which was comparable to CFA/IFA adjuvant. In addition, PfMSP-1 42 formulated with poly(I:C) elicited a higher ratio of IFN-γ/IL-4 (23.9) and IgG2a/IgG1 (3.77) with more persistent, higher avidity, and titer of IgG2a relative to CFA/IFA, indicating a potent Th1 immune response. Poly(I:C) could also help to induce anti-PfMSP-1 42 antibodies with higher growth-inhibitory activity than CFA/IFA. Altogether, the results of the current study demonstrated that poly(I:C) is a potent adjuvant that can be appropriate for being used in PfMSP-1 42 -based vaccine formulations.

Glutamatergic transmission in the central nucleus of the amygdala is selectively altered in Marchigian Sardinian alcohol-preferring rats: alcohol and CRF effects

PubMed Central

Herman, Melissa A.; Varodayan, Florence P.; Oleata, Christopher S.; Luu, George; Kirson, Dean; Heilig, Markus; Ciccocioppo, Roberto; Roberto, Marisa

2015-01-01

The CRF system of the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) is important for the processing of anxiety, stress, and effects of acute and chronic ethanol. We previously reported that ethanol decreases evoked glutamate transmission in the CeA of Sprague Dawley rats and that ethanol dependence alters glutamate release in the CeA. Here, we examined the effects of ethanol, CRF and a CRF1 receptor antagonist on spontaneous and evoked glutamatergic transmission in CeA neurons from Wistar and Marchigian Sardinian Preferring (msP) rats, a rodent line genetically selected for excessive alcohol drinking and characterized by heightened activity of the CRF1 system. Basal spontaneous and evoked glutamate transmission in CeA neurons from msP rats was increased compared to Wistar rats. Ethanol had divergent effects, either increasing or decreasing spontaneous glutamate release in the CeA of Wistar rats. This bidirectional effect was retained in msP rats, but the magnitude of the ethanol-induced increase in glutamate release was significantly smaller. The inhibitory effect of ethanol on evoked glutamatergic transmission was similar in both strains. CRF also either increased or decreased spontaneous glutamate release in CeA neurons of Wistar rats, however, in msP rats CRF only increased glutamate release. The inhibitory effect of CRF on evoked glutamatergic transmission was also lost in neurons from msP rats. A CRF1 antagonist produced only minor effects on spontaneous glutamate transmission, which were consistent across strains, and no effects on evoked glutamate transmission. These results demonstrate that the genetically altered CRF system of msP rats results in alterations in spontaneous and stimulated glutamate signaling in the CeA that may contribute to both the anxiety and drinking behavioral phenotypes. PMID:26519902

Different Regions of the Malaria Merozoite Surface Protein 1 of Plasmodium chabaudi Elicit Distinct T-Cell and Antibody Isotype Responses

PubMed Central

Quin, Stuart J.; Langhorne, Jean

2001-01-01

In this study we have investigated the antibody and CD4 T-cell responses to the well-characterized malaria vaccine candidate MSP-1 during the course of a primary Plasmodium chabaudi chabaudi (AS) infection. Specific antibody responses can be detected within the first week of infection, and CD4 T cells can be detected after 3 weeks of infection. The magnitude of the CD4 T-cell response elicited during a primary infection depended upon the region of MSP-1. In general, the highest precursor frequencies were obtained when a recombinant MSP-1 fragment corresponding to amino acids 900 to 1507 was used as the antigen in vitro. By contrast, proliferative and cytokine responses against amino acids 1508 to 1766 containing the C-terminal 21-kDa region of the molecule were low. The characteristic interleukin 4 (IL-4) switch that occurs in the CD4 T-cell population after an acute blood stage P. c. chabaudi infection was only consistently observed in the response to the amino acid 900 to 1507 MSP1 fragment. A lower frequency of IL-4-producing cells was seen in response to other regions. Although the magnitudes of the immunoglobulin G antibody responses to the different regions of MSP-1 were similar, the isotype composition of each response was distinct, and there was no obvious relationship with the type of T helper cells generated. Interestingly, a relatively high antibody response to the C-terminal region of MSP-1 was observed, suggesting that T-cell epitopes outside of this region may provide the necessary cognate help for specific antibody production. PMID:11254580

Global phylogeography of the avian malaria pathogen Plasmodium relictum based on MSP1 allelic diversity

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hellgren, Olof; Atkinson, Carter T.; Bensch, Staffan; Albayrak, Tamer; Dimitrov, Dimitar; Ewen, John G.; Kim, Kyeong Soon; Lima, Marcos R.; Martin, Lynn; Palinauskas, Vaidas; Ricklefs, Robert; Sehgal, Ravinder N. M.; Gediminas, Valkiunas; Tsuda, Yoshio; Marzal, Alfonso

2015-01-01

Knowing the genetic variation that occurs in pathogen populations and how it is distributed across geographical areas is essential to understand parasite epidemiology, local patterns of virulence, and evolution of host-resistance. In addition, it is important to identify populations of pathogens that are evolutionarily independent and thus ‘free’ to adapt to hosts and environments. Here, we investigated genetic variation in the globally distributed, highly invasive avian malaria parasite Plasmodium relictum, which has several distinctive mitochondrial haplotyps (cyt b lineages, SGS1, GRW11 and GRW4). The phylogeography of P. relictum was accessed using the highly variable nuclear gene merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1), a gene linked to the invasion biology of the parasite. We show that the lineage GRW4 is evolutionarily independent of GRW11 and SGS1 whereas GRW11 and SGS1 share MSP1 alleles and thus suggesting the presence of two distinct species (GRW4 versus SGS1 and GRW11). Further, there were significant differences in the global distribution of MSP1 alleles with differences between GRW4 alleles in the New and the Old World. For SGS1, a lineage formerly believed to have both tropical and temperate transmission, there were clear differences in MSP1 alleles transmitted in tropical Africa compared to the temperate regions of Europe and Asia. Further, we highlight the occurrence of multiple MSP1 alleles in GRW4 isolates from the Hawaiian Islands, where the parasite has contributed to declines and extinctions of endemic forest birds since it was introduced. This study stresses the importance of multiple independent loci for understanding patterns of transmission and evolutionary independence across avian malaria parasites.

Effect of occupational health nursing practice on musculoskeletal pains among hospital nursing staff in South Korea.

PubMed

Kim, Yeon-Ha; Jung, Moon-Hee

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to identify whether occupational health nursing variables serve as the contributing factors to musculoskeletal pains (MSP). A self-administered questionnaire composed of demographic characteristics, the practice of occupational health nursing and information regarding MSP was designed based on in-depth interviews with eight nurses. This study included 226 hospital nursing staff who worked at three university hospitals located in Seoul, South Korea. Statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS and AMOS 19.0. Shoulder and neck pains occurred when subjects worked more than 46 h/week. Subjects who performed 'work-time adjustment' had lesser chance of having shoulder, leg/foot and wrist/finger pains. Overtime work hours showed an indirect effect on multiple sites of MSP by mediator variable, which was 'work-time adjustment'. Organized night duty days eventually decreased multiple sites of MSP. Administration strategies for nurses to adjust work-time within 46 h/week should be considered.

Dynamic changes of Plasmodium vivax population structure in South Korea.

PubMed

Kang, Jung-Mi; Lee, Jinyoung; Cho, Pyo-Yun; Kim, Tae Im; Sohn, Woon-Mok; Park, Jae-Won; Kim, Tong-Soo; Na, Byoung-Kuk

2016-11-01

The vivax malaria epidemic has persisted in South Korea since its reemergence in 1993. Although there has been a significant decrease in the number of malaria cases in recent years, vivax malaria is still a major public health concern. To gain in-depth insight into the genetic makeup of Korean Plasmodium vivax, we analyzed polymorphic patterns of two major antigens, merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP-1) and MSP-3α, in 255 Korean P. vivax isolates collected over an extended period from 1998 to 2013. Combinational genetic analysis of polymorphic patterns of MSP-1 and MSP-3α in the isolates suggests that the P. vivax population in South Korea has been diversifying rapidly, with the appearance of parasites with new genotypes, despite the recent reduction of disease incidence. These results highlight the importance of molecular epidemiological investigations to supervise the genetic variation of the parasite in South Korea. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The RON Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Promotes Metastasis by Triggering MBD4-Dependent DNA Methylation Reprogramming

PubMed Central

Cunha, Stéphanie; Lin, Yi-Chun; Goossen, Elizabeth A.; DeVette, Christa I.; Albertella, Mark R.; Thomson, Stuart; Mulvihill, Mark J.; Welm, Alana L.

2017-01-01

SUMMARY Metastasis is the major cause of death in cancer patients, yet the genetic and epigenetic programs that drive metastasis are poorly understood. Here, we report an epigenetic reprogramming pathway that is required for breast cancer metastasis. Concerted differential DNA methylation is initiated by the activation of the RON receptor tyrosine kinase by its ligand, macrophage stimulating protein (MSP). Through PI3K signaling, RON/MSP promotes expression of the G:T mismatch-specific thymine glycosylase MBD4. RON/MSP and MBD4-dependent aberrant DNA methylation results in the misregulation of a specific set of genes. Knockdown of MBD4 reverses methylation at these specific loci and blocks metastasis. We also show that the MBD4 glycosylase catalytic residue is required for RON/MSP-driven metastasis. Analysis of human breast cancers revealed that this epigenetic program is significantly associated with poor clinical outcome. Furthermore, inhibition of Ron kinase activity with a pharmacological agent blocks metastasis of patient-derived breast tumor grafts in vivo. PMID:24388747

The Meyerhoff Way: How the Meyerhoff Scholarship Program Helps Black Students Succeed in the Sciences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stolle-McAllister, Kathy; Sto. Domingo, Mariano R.; Carrillo, Amy

2011-02-01

The Meyerhoff Scholarship Program (MSP) is widely recognized for its comprehensive approach of integrating students into the science community. The supports provided by the program aim to develop students, primarily Blacks, into scientists by offering them academic, social, and professional opportunities to achieve their academic and career goals. The current study allowed for a rich understanding of the perceptions of current Meyerhoff students and Meyerhoff alumni about how the program works. Three groups of MSP students were included in the study: (1) new Meyerhoff students participating in Summer Bridge ( n = 45), (2) currently enrolled Meyerhoff students ( n = 92), and (3) graduates of the MSP who were currently enrolled in STEM graduate studies or had completed an advanced STEM degree ( n = 19). Students described the importance of several key aspects of the MSP: financial support, the Summer Bridge Program, formation of Meyerhoff identity, belonging to the Meyerhoff family, and developing networks—all of which serve to integrate students both academically and socially.

Heat flow in Oklahoma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cranganu, Constantin

Twenty new heat flow values are incorporated, along with 40 previously published data, into a heat flow map of Oklahoma. The new heat flow data were estimated using previous temperature measurements in boreholes made by American Petroleum Institute researchers and 1,498 thermal conductivity measurements on drill cuttings. The mean of 20 average thermal gradients is 30.50sp°C/km. In general, thermal gradients increase from SW (14.11sp°C/km) to NE (42.24sp°C/km). The range of 1,498 in situ thermal conductivity measurements (after corrections for anisotropy, in situ temperature, and porosity) is 0.90-6.1 W/m-K; the average is 1.68 W/m-K. Estimated near-surface heat flow (±20%) at 20 new sites in Oklahoma varies between 22 ± 4 mW/msp2 and 86 ± 17 mW/msp2; the average is 50 mW/msp2. Twenty-seven new heat-generation estimates, along with 22 previously published data, are used to create a heat generation map of Oklahoma. The range of heat production estimates is 1.1-3.5 muW/msp3, with an average of 2.5 muW/msp3. The heat flow regime in Oklahoma is primarily conductive in nature, except for a zone in northeast. Transient effects due to sedimentary processes and metamorphic/igneous activity, as well as past climatic changes, do not significantly influence the thermal state of the Oklahoma crust. Heat flow near the margins of the Arkoma and Anadarko Basins may be depressed or elevated by 5-13 mW/msp2 by refraction of heat from sedimentary rocks of relatively low thermal conductivity (1-2 W/m-K) into crystalline basement rocks of relatively high thermal conductivity (˜3-4 W/m-K). The heat generation-heat flow relationship shows a modest correlation. The relatively high heat flow (˜70-80 mW/msp2) in part of northeastern Oklahoma suggests that the thermal regime there may be perturbed by regional groundwater flow originating in the fractured outcrops of the Arbuckle-Simpson aquifer in the Arbuckle Mountains.

Medicinal plants of Dagala region in Bhutan: their diversity, distribution, uses and economic potential.

PubMed

Wangchuk, Phurpa; Namgay, Kuenga; Gayleg, Karma; Dorji, Yeshi

2016-06-24

The traditional g.so-ba-rig-pa hospitals in Bhutan uses more than 100 polyingredient medicines that are manufactured by the Menjong Sorig Pharmaceuticals (MSP). The MSP has been collecting medicinal plants from Lingzhi region for about 48 years and therefore the ecological pressure on these plants have increased. It is MSP's top priority to identify an alternative collection site to ease the problem. Therefore, this study was carried out to determine whether Dagala region could potentially be an alternative collection site for MSP. First the multidisciplinary research team generated a tentative plant list by reviewing a body of ancient g.so-ba-rig-pa literature, current formulations, and the MSP medicinal plants inventory documents. Second, the research team visited the study areas in Dagala region for spot identification of medicinal plants. Third, we confirmed our traditional and botanical identification by crosschecking the descriptions with the series of books on traditional texts, Flora of Bhutan, scientific papers on medicinal plants, and the plant databases. We have identified 100 species of high altitude medicinal plants from Dagala region. Of these, 24 species grow abundantly, 29 species grow in moderate numbers and 47 species were scarce. More than 85 species belonged to the herbaceous life form and 51 of them are used as a whole plant. A total of 68 species grow in between 4000 and 4999 meter above sea level. These 100 medicinal plants represented 39 different families and 80 genera and the maximum number of plants belonged to the family Asteraceae. Of 60 species that are currently used for formulating medicines at MSP, 16 species have economic importance with potential for commercial collection. Out of seven areas covered by the survey, Kipchen hosted maximum number of medicinal plants (21 species). Our survey identified 100 medicinal plants from Dagala region and of these, 16 species has economic potential that could benefit both MSP and Dagala communities. It is feasible to establish an alternative medicinal plants collection center in Dagala Gewog.

The migration, dissolution, and fate of chlorinated solvents in the urbanized alluvial valleys of the southwestern USA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jackson, R. E.

The migration, dissolution, and subsequent fate of spilled chlorinated solvents in the urban alluvial valleys of the southwestern U.S. appear to be governed by a unique set of hydrogeologic and geochemical processes occurring within terrigeneous clastic depositional systems. The alluvial and lacustrine fill of the basins, the trapping of solvents in fine-grained sediments beneath the urbanized valley centers, the oxic conditions typical of the deeper alluvium, and the contaminant-transport patterns produced by large-scale basin pumping combine to produce long aqueous-phase plumes derived from the dissolution of trapped chlorinated solvents. Although of limited aqueous solubility, these dense solvents are sufficiently mobile and soluble in the southwestern alluvial valleys to have produced aqueous plumes that have migrated several kilometers through the deeper alluvium and have contaminated valuable water-supply well fields in California, Arizona, and New Mexico. The typical length of these plumes and the presence of oxic groundwater indicate that it is unlikely that natural attenuation will be a practical remedial option in the southwestern alluvial valleys or in other alluvial systems in which similar hydrogeologic and geochemical conditions exist. Résumé La migration, la dissolution et l'évolution consécutive des rejets de solvants chlorés dans les vallées alluviales du sud-ouest des États-Unis paraissent déterminées par un même ensemble de processus hydrogéologiques et géochimiques intervenant dans des formations de dépôts clastiques terrigènes. Les remplissages alluviaux et lacustres des bassins, le piégeage des solvants par des sédiments fins sous les centres des vallées urbanisées, les conditions oxiques typiques des alluvions plus profondes et les types de transport de contaminants provoqués par le pompage à l'échelle du bassin se combinent pour produire des panaches, étendus dans la phase aqueuse, provenant de la dissolution de solvants chlorés piégés. Malgré leur faible solubilité dans l'eau, ces solvants denses sont suffisamment mobiles et solubles pour avoir produit, dans le sud-ouest des vallées alluviales, des panaches aqueux qui ont migré de plusieurs kilomètres dans les alluvions plus profondes et ont contaminé des champs captants pour l'eau potable en Californie, en Arizona et au Nouveau-Mexique. La longueur de ces panaches et la présence d'eau souterraine en conditions oxiques indiquent qu'il est peu probable que la décroissance naturelle soit un recours pratique de décontamination dans les vallées alluviales du sud-ouest ou dans d'autres systèmes alluviaux dans lesquels existent des conditions hydrogéologiques et géochimiques semblables. Resumen La migración, disolución y transporte de compuestos clorados en valles aluviales urbanos del sudoeste de los Estados Unidos de América parecen estar gobernados por un conjunto único de procesos hidrogeológicos y geoquímicos que tienen lugar en los depósitos clásticos. El relleno aluvial y lacustre de las cuencas, la inmovilización de los solutos en sedimentos de grano fino bajo las zonas urbanizadas, los condiciones óxicas típicas del aluvial profundo y las direcciones de transporte regidas por los fuertes bombeos en las cuencas se combinan para producir grandes penachos en fase acuosa procedentes de la disolución de los compuestos clorados atrapados en el medio. Aunque la solubilidad de estos compuestos clorados densos es pequeña, es suficiente para producir penachos que en algunos casos se han desplazado varios kilómetros a través del aluvial profundo y han llegado a contaminar zonas de extracción muy productivas en California, Arizona y Nuevo México. La longitud de estos penachos y la presencia de agua subterránea oxidante indican que es improbable que la degradación natural sea un buen método de limpieza de estos acuíferos o de otros sistemas aluviales que presenten características hidrogeológicas y geoquímicas semejantes.

The Plasmodium gaboni genome illuminates allelic dimorphism of immunologically important surface antigens in P. falciparum.

PubMed

Roy, Scott William

2015-12-01

In the deadly human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum, several major merozoite surface proteins (MSPs) show a striking pattern of allelic diversity called allelic dimorphism (AD). In AD, the vast majority of observed alleles fall into two highly divergent allelic classes, with recombinant alleles being rare or not observed, presumably due to repression by natural selection (recombination suppression, or RS). The three AD loci, merozoite surface proteins (MSPs) 1, 2, and 6, along with MSP3, which also exhibits RS among four allelic classes, can be collectively called AD/RS. The causes of AD/RS and the evolutionary history of allelic diversity at these loci remain mysterious. The few available sequences from a single closely related chimpanzee parasite, P. reichenowi, have suggested that for 3/4 loci, AD/RS is an ancient state that has been retained in P. falciparum since well before the P. falciparum-P. reichenowi ancestor. On the other hand, based on comparative sequence analysis, we recently suggested that (i) AD/RS P. falciparum loci have undergone interallelic recombination over longer evolutionary times (on the timescale of recent speciation events), and thus (ii) AD/RS may be a recent phenomenon. The recent publication of genomic sequencing efforts for P. gaboni, an outgroup to P. falciparum and P. reichenowi, allows for improved reconstruction of the evolutionary history of these loci. In this work, I report genic sequence for P. gaboni for all four AD/RS P. falciparum loci (MSP1, 2, 3, and 6). Comparison of these sequences with available P. falciparum and P. reichenowi data strengthens the evidence for interallelic recombination over the evolutionary history of these species and also strengthens the case that AD/RS at these loci is ancient. Combined with previous results, these data provide evidence that AD/RS at different loci has evolved at several different times in the evolutionary history of P. falciparum: (i) before the P. gaboni-P. falciparum divergence, for much of MSP1 and MSP3; (ii) between the P. gaboni-P. falciparum and P. reichenowi-P. falciparum divergences, for the 5' end of the AD region of MSP6 and block 3 of MSP1; (iii) near the P. reichenowi-P. falciparum divergence, for the 3' end of the AD region of MSP6; and (iv) after the P. reichenowi-P. falciparum divergence, for MSP2. Based on these results, I suggest a new hypothesis for long-term evolutionary maintenance of AD/RS by recombination within allelic groups. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Application d'une technique de modelisation aerodynamique conceptuelle sur la simulation d'un pilote automatique a commande optimale pour un avion d'affaires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pollender-Moreau, Olivier

Ce document présente, dans le cadre d'un contexte conceptuel, une méthode d'enchaînement servant à faire le lien entre les différentes étapes qui permettent de réaliser la simulation d'un aéronef à partir de ses données géométriques et de ses propriétés massiques. En utilisant le cas de l'avion d'affaires Hawker 800XP de la compagnie Hawker Beechcraft, on démontre, via des données, un processus de traitement par lots et une plate-forme de simulation, comment (1) modéliser la géométrie d'un aéronef en plusieurs surfaces, (2) calculer les forces aérodynamiques selon une technique connue sous le nom de Vortex Lattice Method, (3) construire un modèle de vol servant à la simulation des aéronefs pour leur enveloppe de vol en ajoutant des fonctions supplémentaires, (4) construire un modèle de turbosoufflante simplifié, (5) développer un algorithme d'équilibre (trim) du mouvement longitudinal, (6) développer des algorithmes de contrôle à commande moderne, (7) développer certaines fonctions d'un système de pilotage automatique, et (8) rassembler le tout sous une même plate-forme de simulation. Afin de supporter ce travail, une application publique Matlab, connue sous le nom de Tornado, est utilisée conjointement avec d'autres fonctions pour la conception du modèle de vol aérodynamique. D'ailleurs, il sera démontré que le modèle de vol, quoiqu'il soit quand même crédible, ne concorde pas tout à fait avec les données de référence. Par contre, puisque le modèle des moteurs fonctionne bien, que l'algorithme d'équilibrage du mouvement longitudinal fonctionne bien et que les pôles des systèmes dynamiques concordent avec la littérature, les tests dynamiques effectués au sein de la plate-forme de simulation permettent d'obtenir des résultats fonctionnels et crédibles. D'ailleurs, deux systèmes d'augmentation de la stabilité basés sur la méthode de contrôle moderne LQR et couvrant l'enveloppe de vol de l'aéronef via un système d'ordonnancement des gains sont implémentés respectivement selon les mouvements longitudinal et latéral. Ces fonctions fonctionnent bien et permettent de rencontrer les qualités de vol requises pour un avion d'affaires. Finalement, certaines fonctions concernant un système de pilotage automatique sont implémentées. Dans le cas du mouvement latéral, ces fonctions sont basées sur les méthodes de contrôle modernes et couvrent la totalité de l'enveloppe de vol; mais en ce qui concerne le mouvement longitudinal, elles sont basées sur des algorithmes d'équilibre difficile à gérer pour implémenter sur toute l'enveloppe de vol, c'est pourquoi les tests présentés sont limités à des scénarios bien précis. Dans les deux cas, les essais effectués donnent d'assez bons résultats.

The Prevalence of and Factors Associated with Neck, Shoulder, and Low-Back Pains among Medical Students at University Hospitals in Central Saudi Arabia

PubMed Central

Al-Saran, Yazeed; Al-Moawi, Ahlam; Bin Dous, Abdullah; Al-Ahaideb, Abdulaziz

2017-01-01

Aim The study aim was to determine the prevalence of neck, shoulder, and low-back pains and to explore the factors associated with musculoskeletal pain (MSP) among medical students at university hospitals in central Saudi Arabia. Method This cross-sectional study was conducted at a government institution using an online self-administered, modified version of the Standardised Nordic Questionnaire in the English language. Results A total of 469 students responded to our survey. The prevalence of MSP in at least one body site at any time, in the past week, and in the past year was 85.3%, 54.4%, and 81.9%, respectively. Factors significantly associated with MSP in at least one body site at any time were being in the clinical year (P = 0.032), history of trauma (P  =  0.036), history of depressive symptoms (P < 0.001), and history of psychosomatic symptoms (P < 0.001). On multivariable regression analysis, factors associated with MSP were history of trauma (P = 0.016) and depressive (P = 0.002) or psychosomatic symptoms (P = 0.004). Conclusion MSP among Saudi medical students is high, particularly among those in the clinical years and those with history of trauma and with depressive or psychosomatic symptoms. Medical institutions should be aware of this serious health issue and preventive measures are warranted. PMID:29238618

The Prevalence of and Factors Associated with Neck, Shoulder, and Low-Back Pains among Medical Students at University Hospitals in Central Saudi Arabia.

PubMed

Algarni, Abdulrahman D; Al-Saran, Yazeed; Al-Moawi, Ahlam; Bin Dous, Abdullah; Al-Ahaideb, Abdulaziz; Kachanathu, Shaji John

2017-01-01

The study aim was to determine the prevalence of neck, shoulder, and low-back pains and to explore the factors associated with musculoskeletal pain (MSP) among medical students at university hospitals in central Saudi Arabia. This cross-sectional study was conducted at a government institution using an online self-administered, modified version of the Standardised Nordic Questionnaire in the English language. A total of 469 students responded to our survey. The prevalence of MSP in at least one body site at any time, in the past week, and in the past year was 85.3%, 54.4%, and 81.9%, respectively. Factors significantly associated with MSP in at least one body site at any time were being in the clinical year ( P = 0.032), history of trauma ( P   =  0.036), history of depressive symptoms ( P < 0.001), and history of psychosomatic symptoms ( P < 0.001). On multivariable regression analysis, factors associated with MSP were history of trauma ( P = 0.016) and depressive ( P = 0.002) or psychosomatic symptoms ( P = 0.004). MSP among Saudi medical students is high, particularly among those in the clinical years and those with history of trauma and with depressive or psychosomatic symptoms. Medical institutions should be aware of this serious health issue and preventive measures are warranted.

Genetic diversity of merozoite surface protein-2 in Plasmodium falciparum isolates from Aceh province, Indonesia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jamil, K. F.; Supargiyono, S.; Syafruddin, D.; Pratama, N.; Silvy, S.

2018-03-01

Estimated 3.3 million Indonesian population were infected with malaria. However, extensive genetic polymorphism of the field isolates MSP-2 of P. falciparum represents a major obstacle for the development of malaria treatment. The aim of this study to investigate the genetic diversity of MSP-2 genotype in field isolates of P. falciparum collected in Aceh Province. A total of 90 patients enrolled in this study who were selected from positive malaria from eleven district Hospitals in Aceh from 2013-2015. Data was collected by anamnesis, complete physical examination and laboratory tests for MSP-2. All protocol to diagnose malaria assigned following the WHO 2010 guideline. All samples were stored in Eijkman Biology Molecular Institute, Jakarta.Among 90 samples were 57.7% male and 42.3% female with the most cases ages between 21-30 years old. Allele typing analysis displayed the polymorphic nature of P. falciparum. The MSP-2 have two alleles, 62.2% (56/90) for FC27 type and 58.9% (53/90) for 3D7 type and 21.2% (19/90) for mixed FC27 and 3D7 infection were identified. Diverse allele types from Aceh Province was identified in MSP-2 P. falciparum patients; there is the almost similar number of patients infected with both allele. A moderate level of the mixed allele was also observed.

Molecular Dynamics in a Liquid Crystal with Reentrant Mesophases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sebastião, P. J.; Ribeiro, A. C.; Nguyen, H. T.; Noack, F.

1995-11-01

It is well known that liquid crystalline compounds with a cyano terminal group can present peculiar polymorphisms in particular different types of smectic A mesophases and a reentrant behaviour for both nematic and smectic A mesophases. In this work we study by proton NMR relaxation the influence of these features on the molecular dynamics of the compound 4-cyanobenzoate-4'-octylbenzoyloxyphenyl (DB8CN Sym) in its nematic (N), partial bilayer smectic A (SAd), reentrant nematic (Nre) and reentrant smectic A (SA1) mesophases. Standard and fast field-cycling techniques were used for our spin-lattice relaxation's study over a broad frequency range of 6 decades (200 Hz up to 300 MHz). It was found that the molecular dynamics in the nematic mesophases is rather different from the molecular dynamics in the smectic A mesophases. However, the reentrant aspect present in both nematic and smectic A states is not associated to a major difference on the molecular dynamics of the nematic and reentrant nematic or smectic and reentrant smectic A mesophases. Order director fluctuations and rotations/reorientations are the most important relaxation mechanisms in the nematic mesophases in the lower and higher frequency limits, respectively, while self-diffusion has a very small contribution to the overall relaxation. As for the smectic A mesophases, self-diffusion and rotations/reorientations are the predominant relaxation mechanisms for frequencies above 20 kHz. The collective motions, which for these mesophases have to be associated with layer undulations with the frequency law T_1sim ν, are only important to the spin-lattice relaxation on the low part of the frequency spectrum (ν<10 kHz). The inclusion in the relaxation study of a contribution from the cross-relaxation between protons and nitrogen nuclei improves the quality of the 1/T_1 data fits in both kinds of mesophases. The combined study of the molecular dynamics in the N, SAd, Nre and SA1 mesophases of DB8CN Sym reveals that it is necessary to consider one more contribution to the relaxation in the analysis of the 1/T_1 data in the SAd and high temperature N mesophases. This contribution is associated with a dynamic process of dissociation and recombination of molecules in groups that could be present in this kind of systems as predicted in the literature to explain the layer thickness detected in the SAd mesophases. The characteristic time for this process was estimated. Les composés cristaux liquides à groupe terminal cyano peuvent présenter de curieux polymorphismes, en particulier différents types de mésophases smectiques A et un compotement réentrant pour les mésophases nématiques et smectiques A. Dans ce travail nous étudions par RMN l'influence de ces caractéristiques sur la dynamique moléculaire du composé 4-cyanobenzoate-4'-octylbenzoyloxyphenyl (DB8CN Sym) dans ces phases nématique (N), smectique partiellement bicouche A (SAd), nématique réentrant (Nre) et réentrant smectique A(SA1). Nous avons utilisé dans notre étude de la relaxation spin-réseau des techniques classiques et de champ cyclique rapide sur un intervalle de fréquence de 6 décales (200 Hz à 300 MHz). Nous avons trouvé que la dynamique moléculaire des mésophases nématiques est particulièrement différente de celle des mésophases smectiques A. Toutefois, l'effet de réentrance présent dans les états nématique et smectique A n'est pas associé à une différence majeure de la dynamique moléculaire des mésophases nématique, nématique réentrante ou smectique et smectique A réentrante. Les mécanismes de relaxation les plus importants dans les mésophases nématiques à basse et haute fréquences sont respectivement les fluctuations du vecteur d'ordre et des rotations/réorientations, alors que l'auto-diffusion apporte une très faible contribution à la relaxation totale. Dans les mésophases smectiques A l'auto-diffusion et les rotations/réorientations sont les mécanismes de relaxation dominants pour des fréquences au dessus de 20 kHz. Les mouvements collectifs (qui doivent dans ce cas être associés à des ondulations de couche avec une loi de dispersion T_1sim ν) ne doivent être pris en compte pour la relaxation spin-réseau que pour les basses fréquences de Larmor (ν<10 kHz). L'inclusion d'une contribution de la relaxation croisée entre protons et noyaux d'azote dans le modèle de relaxation augmente la qualité des fits de 1/T_1 dans les deux sortes de mésophases. L'étude combinée de la dynamique moléculaire dans les mésophases N, SAd, Nre et SA1 du DB8CN Sym montre qu'il faut en fait considérer une contribution supplémentaire pour la relaxation dans l'analyse des données 1/T_1 dans les mésophases SAd et nématique à haute température. Cette contribution est associée à un processus dynamique de dissociation et recombinaison de molécules en groupes qui pourraient être présentes dans ces types de systèmes, ce qui permettrait d'expliquer l'épaisseur observée pour les couches dans les mésophases SAd, comme prévu dans la littérature. Le temps caractéristique de ce processus a été estimé.

Asymptotic Stability of Interconnected Passive Non-Linear Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Isidori, A.; Joshi, S. M.; Kelkar, A. G.

1999-01-01

This paper addresses the problem of stabilization of a class of internally passive non-linear time-invariant dynamic systems. A class of non-linear marginally strictly passive (MSP) systems is defined, which is less restrictive than input-strictly passive systems. It is shown that the interconnection of a non-linear passive system and a non-linear MSP system is globally asymptotically stable. The result generalizes and weakens the conditions of the passivity theorem, which requires one of the systems to be input-strictly passive. In the case of linear time-invariant systems, it is shown that the MSP property is equivalent to the marginally strictly positive real (MSPR) property, which is much simpler to check.

Préface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moncorgé, R.

2006-12-01

Cette nouvelle édition du Colloque UVX avait pour objectifs de : - réunir les chercheurs et les industriels intéressés par les applications et les développements les plus récents obtenus sur les sources UV, VUV et X, cohérentes ou incohérentes, et les optiques et matériaux associés ; - dresser un bilan des sources de photons à haute énergie et de leurs applications courantes et futures ; - susciter de nouvelles collaborations ; - ouvrir de nouveaux champs disciplinaires. Elle a été organisée par le laboratoire CIRIL au VVF de Colleville-sur-Mer, dans le département du Calvados, du 6 au 9 juin 2006, la journée du 5 juin ayant été consacrée à une réunion de travail du GDR CNRS SAXO, ce GDR regroupant une majorité de scientifiques concernés par le Colloque UVX. La manifestation a réuni ainsi une centaine de participants dont une dizaine d'exposants industriels. Parmi ces participants, trente étaient invités à donner une conférence orale. Une sélection a été faite également parmi les meilleures communications soumises par affiches pour qu'elles soient présentées oralement. Une trentaine de ces communications ont été préparées sous la forme d'articles de 6 à 12 pages et font l'objet de cet ouvrage. De nombreux travaux récents ont été exposés tant au niveau des sources que des techniques de caractérisation et des applications, ceci dans des domaines très divers allant de la physique des lasers et de la mise en forme spatiale et temporelle des faisceaux au domaine de l'imagerie médicale et biologiques en passant par les techniques de fabrication des cristaux, fibres et films minces organiques et inorganiques. Plusieurs résultats marquants en sont ressortis. Dans le domaine des sources, la mise en forme spatiale du faisceau laser utilisé pour la production d'harmoniques d'ordre élevé dans les gaz, ceci à l'aide de lames de phase peu onéreuses et simples d'utilisation, semble être une bonne solution pour accroître les efficacités de conversion et pour produire des impulsions UVX de quelques dizaines de microjoules. Parallèlement, des progrès notables ont été effectués dans la génération d'impulsions sub-100 as isolées accordables et de large bande spectrale en utilisant des impulsions de pompe ultracourtes bien contrôlée en phase. Il apparaît que la gamme spectrale accessible peut être encore largement étendue en jouant sur la longueur d'onde excitatrice et sur le milieu générateur pour pouvoir atteindre des impulsions de moins de 10 as. Des premiers résultats ont été aussi exposés concernant l'obtention d'un laser X à 18,9 nm pompé en incidence rasante (technique GRIP) à partir d'une cible de molybdène nickelloide et d'un laser Ti:Sa produisant des impulsions de plus de 2 microjoules. L'intérêt des milieux gazeux à excimères a été également de nouveau démontré pour l'amplification d'impulsions ultracourtes intenses TW dans le proche UV avec un contraste élevé (>1011). Bien qu'encore marginale, il faut enfin signaler l'arrivée des fibres optiques microstructurées avec la génération de supercontinuum de longueurs d'onde (spectre blanc) jusque dans le proche UV. Du côté des processus fondamentaux et des applications, sont particulièrement ressortis la caractérisation de plasmas denses utilisant des harmoniques élevées à l'aide d'une expérience interférométrique originale, la caractérisation de plasmas de taille nanométrique émetteurs de rayonnement X produits par interaction d'impulsions laser ultracourtes avec des agrégats de gaz rares ainsi que le dépôt de couches minces de biomolécules à l'aide de la technique MAPLE, technique susceptible d'améliorer la conservation des molécules, en particulier des protéines. Enfin, dans le domaine de la métrologie et de l'imagerie, l'importance des lames de phase dans la mise en forme spatiale des faisceaux, en particulier pour le projet Mega-Joule, a été de nouveau souligné, des progrès significatifs (réflectivité, bande passante, stabilité temporelle et thermique) ont été obtenus dans le domaine des revêtements interférentiels multicouches pour laser EUV autour de 40 nm, et des améliorations significatives, en particulier au niveau des détecteurs, ont été signalées dans le domaine de l'imagerie X du petit animal, la conception de sources dédiées à microfoyers délivrant des rayons X de basses énergies très rapides pour éviter le flou inhérent aux mouvements de l'animal restant encore nécessaire. Le Colloque a permis des échanges très fructueux entre laséristes et utilisateurs et entre scientifiques et industriels commercialisant sources, systèmes et détecteurs. Il a permis également de donner la parole à des intervenants très jeunes et souvent très brillants (doctorants et jeunes chercheurs) qui seront sans aucun doute les futurs responsables de nos laboratoires, centres de recherche et entreprises. Les progrès constatés résultant de travaux portant souvent sur les deux années écoulées (puisque c'est la fréquence choisie pour ce Colloque) et les résultats obtenus comme les perspectives annoncées montrant de nouveau toute la pertinence de cette manifestation, celle-ci sera reconduite en 2008.

46 CFR 296.20 - Tank vessels.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 8 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Tank vessels. 296.20 Section 296.20 Shipping MARITIME... SECURITY PROGRAM (MSP) Priority for Granting Applications § 296.20 Tank vessels. (a) First priority for the award of MSP Operating Agreements under MSA 2003 shall be granted to a tank vessel that is constructed...

46 CFR 296.20 - Tank vessels.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 8 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Tank vessels. 296.20 Section 296.20 Shipping MARITIME... SECURITY PROGRAM (MSP) Priority for Granting Applications § 296.20 Tank vessels. (a) First priority for the award of MSP Operating Agreements under MSA 2003 shall be granted to a tank vessel that is constructed...

46 CFR 296.20 - Tank vessels.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 8 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Tank vessels. 296.20 Section 296.20 Shipping MARITIME... SECURITY PROGRAM (MSP) Priority for Granting Applications § 296.20 Tank vessels. (a) First priority for the award of MSP Operating Agreements under MSA 2003 shall be granted to a tank vessel that is constructed...

46 CFR 296.20 - Tank vessels.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 8 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Tank vessels. 296.20 Section 296.20 Shipping MARITIME... SECURITY PROGRAM (MSP) Priority for Granting Applications § 296.20 Tank vessels. (a) First priority for the award of MSP Operating Agreements under MSA 2003 shall be granted to a tank vessel that is constructed...

46 CFR 296.20 - Tank vessels.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 8 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Tank vessels. 296.20 Section 296.20 Shipping MARITIME... SECURITY PROGRAM (MSP) Priority for Granting Applications § 296.20 Tank vessels. (a) First priority for the award of MSP Operating Agreements under MSA 2003 shall be granted to a tank vessel that is constructed...

Math Science Partnership of Southwest Pennsylvania: Measuring Progress toward Goals. Monograph

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pane, John F.; Williams, Valerie L.; Olmsted, Stuart S.; Yuan, Kun; Spindler, Eleanor; Slaughter, Mary Ellen

2009-01-01

In 2003, the Allegheny Intermediate Unit received a grant under the National Science Foundation's Math and Science Partnership program to establish the Math Science Partnership of Southwest Pennsylvania (MSP). The MSP brings together regional K-12 school districts, institutions of higher education, and intermediate units with the goals of…

46 CFR 295.12 - Priority for awarding agreements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... to all vessels within a priority set forth herein, MARAD shall award to each eligible applicant in... 46 Shipping 8 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Priority for awarding agreements. 295.12 Section 295.12... OPERATORS MARITIME SECURITY PROGRAM (MSP) Establishment of MSP Fleet and Eligibility § 295.12 Priority for...

Major Surface Protease of Trypanosomatids: One Size Fits All? ▿

PubMed Central

Yao, Chaoqun

2010-01-01

Major surface protease (MSP or GP63) is the most abundant glycoprotein localized to the plasma membrane of Leishmania promastigotes. MSP plays several important roles in the pathogenesis of leishmaniasis, including but not limited to (i) evasion of complement-mediated lysis, (ii) facilitation of macrophage (Mø) phagocytosis of promastigotes, (iii) interaction with the extracellular matrix, (iv) inhibition of natural killer cellular functions, (v) resistance to antimicrobial peptide killing, (vi) degradation of Mø and fibroblast cytosolic proteins, and (vii) promotion of survival of intracellular amastigotes. MSP homologues have been found in all other trypanosomatids studied to date including heteroxenous members of Trypanosoma cruzi, the extracellular Trypanosoma brucei, unusual intraerythrocytic Endotrypanum spp., phytoparasitic Phytomonas spp., and numerous monoxenous species. These proteins are likely to perform roles different from those described for Leishmania spp. Multiple MSPs in individual cells may play distinct roles at some time points in trypanosomatid life cycles and collaborative or redundant roles at others. The cellular locations and the extracellular release of MSPs are also discussed in connection with MSP functions in leishmanial promastigotes. PMID:19858295

A preliminary study of genetic diversity of MSP-1 types in Plasmodium falciparum in southern province of Sistan Baluchistan of Iran.

PubMed

Zahra, Zamani; Reza, Razavi Mohammad; Mehdi, Assmar; Sedigheh, Sadeghi; Fatemeh, Pourfallah; Nikoo, Nasoohi; Ashraf, Sheibani; Mohammad, Raisi

2007-02-01

Plasmodiumfalciparum merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP-1) shows extensive antigenic diversity. This is due to the presence of seven variable blocks, five semi-conserved and also five conserved blocks. The variable blocks in the MSP-1 gene are principally dimorphic, displaying either K1 or MAD20 type; except for the block 2 region which is represented by three alleles, an RO33 type in addition to the other two. Allelic diversity is reported to be generated by intra-genic recombination between the variable blocks. A study of allelic variation of MSP-1 gene in Plasmodium falciparum was carried out in the southern province of Sistan Baluchistan in Iran in 2001-2003. Samples were obtained from 30 febrile patients and DNA was extracted and association types between blocks 2 and 6 was identified on each block using specific primers and compared with those from Vietnam, Brazil and Africa. The association types obtained, were similar though less in number than the ones from Vietnam, but more than those from Africa and Brazil.

Maritime Spatial Planning in Cyprus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hadjimitsis, Diofantos; Agapiou, Athos; Themistocleous, Kyriakos; Mettas, Christodoulos; Evagorou, Evagoras; Soulis, Giorgos; Xagoraris, Zafeiris; Pilikou, Maria; Aliouris, Kyriakos; Ioannou, Nicolas

2016-01-01

Spatial Planning is a critical tool for land management and is extensively used in all developed nations. The Marine Spatial Planning (MSP), at the European Union (EU) level, is based on Directive 2014/89/EU of the European Parliament and Council of 23rd July 2014 which establishes a common framework for MSP in the EU, which each Member State is called to apply in relation to the maritime space under its jurisdiction (marine waters). In this paper the overall results from the "Cross-Border Cooperation for the development of Marine Spatial Planning" project are presented for the area of Cyprus. A variety of activities fall within the MSP such as maritime transport routes and traffic flows, exploration, exploitation and extraction of energy resources, tourism, underwater cultural heritage etc. In addition, the legal framework, activities maps are also shown. The variety of conflicts maps for the area of Limassol are illustrated both in 2D and 3D. A hypothetical scenario of Limassol town in Cyprus as an energy center is presented based on the overall results. The paper ends with some conclusions regarding the framework of MSP in Cyprus.

Aquifers and hyporheic zones: Towards an ecological understanding of groundwater

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hancock, Peter J.; Boulton, Andrew J.; Humphreys, William F.

2005-03-01

Ecological constraints in subsurface environments relate directly to groundwater flow, hydraulic conductivity, interstitial biogeochemistry, pore size, and hydrological linkages to adjacent aquifers and surface ecosystems. Groundwater ecology has evolved from a science describing the unique subterranean biota to its current form emphasising multidisciplinary studies that integrate hydrogeology and ecology. This multidisciplinary approach seeks to elucidate the function of groundwater ecosystems and their roles in maintaining subterranean and surface water quality. In aquifer-surface water ecotones, geochemical gradients and microbial biofilms mediate transformations of water chemistry. Subsurface fauna (stygofauna) graze biofilms, alter interstitial pore size through their movement, and physically transport material through the groundwater environment. Further, changes in their populations provide signals of declining water quality. Better integrating groundwater ecology, biogeochemistry, and hydrogeology will significantly advance our understanding of subterranean ecosystems, especially in terms of bioremediation of contaminated groundwaters, maintenance or improvement of surface water quality in groundwater-dependent ecosystems, and improved protection of groundwater habitats during the extraction of natural resources. Overall, this will lead to a better understanding of the implications of groundwater hydrology and aquifer geology to distributions of subsurface fauna and microbiota, ecological processes such as carbon cycling, and sustainable groundwater management. Les contraintes écologiques dans les environnements de subsurface sont en relation directe avec les écoulements des eaux souterraines, la conductivité hydraulique, la biogéochimie des milieux interstitiels, la taille des pores, et les liens hydrologiques avec les aquifères et les écosystèmes adjacents. L'écologie des eaux souterraines a évolué d'une science décrivant uniquement les biotopes souterrains à des études multidisciplinaires qui intègrent l'écologie et l'hydrogéologie. L'approche multidisciplinaire cherche à élucider le fonctionnement des écosystèmes souterrains et leur rôle consistant à maintenir la qualité des eaux souterraines et de surface. Dans les écotones des eaux de la surfaces des aquifères, les gradients géochimiques et les biofilms microbiologiques contrôlent les transformations de la qualité de l'eau. La faune de subsurface (stygofauna) construisent les biofilms, altèrent la taille des pores interstitiels à travers leur mouvement, et transportent physiquement des matériaux à travers l'environnement des eaux souterraines. Par ailleurs, les changements de leur population signalent un déclin de la qualité de l'eau. Une meilleure intégration de l'écologie des eaux souterraines, de la biogeochimie, et de l'hydrogéologie pourra faire avancer de manière efficace de notre compréhension des écosystèmes souterrains, et spécialement en terme de bioremédiation des eaux souterraines contaminées, de maintenance et d'amélioration de la qualité des eaux de surface dépendant des écosystèmes souterrains, et l'amélioration de la protection des habitats des eaux souterraines durant l'extraction des ressources naturelles. En général, cela conduira à une meilleure compréhension de l'implication de l'hydrogéologie et de la géologie des aquifères à la distribution de la faune de subsurface et aux microbiota, aux processus écologiques tels que les cycles du carbone, et la gestion durable des eaux souterraines. Los entornos ecológicos en ambientes subsuperficiales están relacionados directamente con el flujo de agua subterránea, la conductividad hidráulica, biogeoquímica intersticial, tamaño de los poros, y vínculos hidrológicos con acuíferos adyacentes y ecosistemas superficiales. La ecología del agua subterránea ha evolucionado a partir de una ciencia que describe la biota subterránea única hasta alcanzar la forma actual que enfatiza estudios multidisciplinarios que integran hidrogeología y ecología. Este enfoque multidisciplinario busca clarificar la función de los ecosistemas de agua subterránea y sus roles en el mantenimiento de la calidad de agua superficialy subterránea. En ecotonos de agua superficial y de acuíferos, los gradientes geoquímicos y biopelículas microbiales median trans formaciones de calidad de agua. La fauna subsuperficial (estigofauna) se alimenta de biopeliculas, altera el tamaño de los poros intersticiales mediante su movimiento, y transporta físicamente material a través del ambiente de aguas subterráneas. Además, los cambios en sus poblaciones aportan señales de decadencia de calidad de agua. La mejor integración de ecología de aguas subterráneas, biogeoquímica, e hidrogeología incrementará significativamente nuestro entendimiento de ecosistemas subterráneos, especialmente en términos de bioremediación de aguas subterráneas contaminadas, mantenimiento o mejoramiento de calidad de agua superficial en ecosistemas dependientes de agua subterránea, y protección mejorada de habitats de agua subterránea durante la extracción de recursos naturales. Sobretodo, esto conducirá a un mejor entendimiento de las implicaciones de la hidrología de aguas subterráneas y geología del acuífero, de las distribuciones de fauna subsuperficial y microbiota, procesos ecológicos tal como ciclado de carbono, y gestión sostenible de aguas subterráneas.

Plasmodium vivax Tryptophan Rich Antigen PvTRAg36.6 Interacts with PvETRAMP and PvTRAg56.6 Interacts with PvMSP7 during Erythrocytic Stages of the Parasite

PubMed Central

Tyagi, Kriti; Hossain, Mohammad Enayet; Thakur, Vandana; Aggarwal, Praveen; Malhotra, Pawan; Mohmmed, Asif; Sharma, Yagya Dutta

2016-01-01

Plasmodium vivax is most wide spread and a neglected malaria parasite. There is a lack of information on parasite biology of this species. Genome of this parasite encodes for the largest number of tryptophan-rich proteins belonging to ‘Pv-fam-a’ family and some of them are potential drug/vaccine targets but their functional role(s) largely remains unexplored. Using bacterial and yeast two hybrid systems, we have identified the interacting partners for two of the P. vivax tryptophan-rich antigens called PvTRAg36.6 and PvTRAg56.2. The PvTRAg36.6 interacts with early transcribed membrane protein (ETRAMP) of P.vivax. It is apically localized in merozoites but in early stages it is seen in parasite periphery suggesting its likely involvement in parasitophorous vacuole membrane (PVM) development or maintenance. On the other hand, PvTRAg56.2 interacts with P.vivax merozoite surface protein7 (PvMSP7) and is localized on merozoite surface. Co-localization of PvTRAg56.2 with PvMSP1 and its molecular interaction with PvMSP7 probably suggest that, PvTRAg56.2 is part of MSP-complex, and might assist or stabilize the protein complex at the merozoite surface. In conclusion, the PvTRAg proteins have different sub cellular localizations and specific associated functions during intra-erythrocytic developmental cycle. PMID:26954579

Attenuation of Leishmania infantum chagasi Metacyclic Promastigotes by Sterol Depletion

PubMed Central

Gaur Dixit, Upasna; Barker, Jason H.; Teesch, Lynn M.; Love-Homan, Laurie; Donelson, John E.; Wilson, Mary E.

2013-01-01

The infectious metacyclic promastigotes of Leishmania protozoa establish infection in a mammalian host after they are deposited into the dermis by a sand fly vector. Several Leishmania virulence factors promote infection, including the glycosylphosphatidylinositol membrane-anchored major surface protease (MSP). Metacyclic Leishmania infantum chagasi promastigotes were treated with methyl-beta-cyclodextrin (MβCD), a sterol-chelating reagent, causing a 3-fold reduction in total cellular sterols as well as enhancing MSP release without affecting parasite viability in vitro. MβCD-treated promastigotes were more susceptible to complement-mediated lysis than untreated controls and reduced the parasite load 3-fold when inoculated into BALB/c mice. Paradoxically, MβCD-treated promastigotes caused a higher initial in vitro infection rate in human or murine macrophages than untreated controls, although their intracellular multiplication was hindered upon infection establishment. There was a corresponding larger amount of covalently bound C3b than iC3b on the parasite surfaces of MβCD-treated promastigotes exposed to healthy human serum in vitro, as well as loss of MSP, a protease that enhances C3b cleavage to iC3b. Mass spectrometry showed that MβCD promotes the release of proteins into the extracellular medium, including both MSP and MSP-like protein (MLP), from virulent metacyclic promastigotes. These data support the hypothesis that plasma membrane sterols are important for the virulence of Leishmania protozoa at least in part through retention of membrane virulence proteins. PMID:23630964

Antibody Responses to a Novel Plasmodium falciparum Merozoite Surface Protein Vaccine Correlate with Protection against Experimental Malaria Infection in Aotus Monkeys

PubMed Central

Cavanagh, David R.; Kocken, Clemens H. M.; White, John H.; Cowan, Graeme J. M.; Samuel, Kay; Dubbeld, Martin A.; der Wel, Annemarie Voorberg-van; Thomas, Alan W.; McBride, Jana S.; Arnot, David E.

2014-01-01

The Block 2 region of the merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP-1) of Plasmodium falciparum has been identified as a target of protective immunity by a combination of seroepidemiology and parasite population genetics. Immunogenicity studies in small animals and Aotus monkeys were used to determine the efficacy of recombinant antigens derived from this region of MSP-1 as a potential vaccine antigen. Aotus lemurinus griseimembra monkeys were immunized three times with a recombinant antigen derived from the Block 2 region of MSP-1 of the monkey-adapted challenge strain, FVO of Plasmodium falciparum, using an adjuvant suitable for use in humans. Immunofluorescent antibody assays (IFA) against erythrocytes infected with P. falciparum using sera from the immunized monkeys showed that the MSP-1 Block 2 antigen induced significant antibody responses to whole malaria parasites. MSP-1 Block 2 antigen-specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) showed no significant differences in antibody titers between immunized animals. Immunized animals were challenged with the virulent P. falciparum FVO isolate and monitored for 21 days. Two out of four immunized animals were able to control their parasitaemia during the follow-up period, whereas two out of two controls developed fulminating parasitemia. Parasite-specific serum antibody titers measured by IFA were four-fold higher in protected animals than in unprotected animals. In addition, peptide-based epitope mapping of serum antibodies from immunized Aotus showed distinct differences in epitope specificities between protected and unprotected animals. PMID:24421900

Mechanism-based inhibition of C5-cytosine DNA methyltransferases by 2-H pyrimidinone.

PubMed

Hurd, P J; Whitmarsh, A J; Baldwin, G S; Kelly, S M; Waltho, J P; Price, N C; Connolly, B A; Hornby, D P

1999-02-19

DNA duplexes in which the target cytosine base is replaced by 2-H pyrimidinone have previously been shown to bind with a significantly greater affinity to C5-cytosine DNA methyltransferases than unmodified DNA. Here, it is shown that 2-H pyrimidinone, when incorporated into DNA duplexes containing the recognition sites for M.HgaI-2 and M.MspI, elicits the formation of inhibitory covalent nucleoprotein complexes. We have found that although covalent complexes are formed between 2-H pyrimidinone-modified DNA and both M.HgaI-2 and M.MspI, the kinetics of complex formation are quite distinct in each case. Moreover, the formation of a covalent complex is still observed between 2-H pyrimidinone DNA and M.MspI in which the active-site cysteine residue is replaced by serine or threonine. Covalent complex formation between M.MspI and 2-H pyrimidinone occurs as a direct result of nucleophilic attack by the residue at the catalytic position, which is enhanced by the absence of the 4-amino function in the base. The substitution of the catalytic cysteine residue by tyrosine or chemical modification of the wild-type enzyme with N-ethylmaleimide, abolishes covalent interaction. Nevertheless the 2-H pyrimidinone-substituted duplex still binds to M.MspI with a greater affinity than a standard cognate duplex, since the 2-H pyrimidinone base is mis-paired with guanine. Copyright 1999 Academic Press.

Genetic diversity of the merozoite surface protein-3 gene in Plasmodium falciparum populations in Thailand.

PubMed

Pattaradilokrat, Sittiporn; Sawaswong, Vorthon; Simpalipan, Phumin; Kaewthamasorn, Morakot; Siripoon, Napaporn; Harnyuttanakorn, Pongchai

2016-10-21

An effective malaria vaccine is an urgently needed tool to fight against human malaria, the most deadly parasitic disease of humans. One promising candidate is the merozoite surface protein-3 (MSP-3) of Plasmodium falciparum. This antigenic protein, encoded by the merozoite surface protein (msp-3) gene, is polymorphic and classified according to size into the two allelic types of K1 and 3D7. A recent study revealed that both the K1 and 3D7 alleles co-circulated within P. falciparum populations in Thailand, but the extent of the sequence diversity and variation within each allelic type remains largely unknown. The msp-3 gene was sequenced from 59 P. falciparum samples collected from five endemic areas (Mae Hong Son, Kanchanaburi, Ranong, Trat and Ubon Ratchathani) in Thailand and analysed for nucleotide sequence diversity, haplotype diversity and deduced amino acid sequence diversity. The gene was also subject to population genetic analysis (F st ) and neutrality tests (Tajima's D, Fu and Li D* and Fu and Li' F* tests) to determine any signature of selection. The sequence analyses revealed eight unique DNA haplotypes and seven amino acid sequence variants, with a haplotype and nucleotide diversity of 0.828 and 0.049, respectively. Neutrality tests indicated that the polymorphism detected in the alanine heptad repeat region of MSP-3 was maintained by positive diversifying selection, suggesting its role as a potential target of protective immune responses and supporting its role as a vaccine candidate. Comparison of MSP-3 variants among parasite populations in Thailand, India and Nigeria also inferred a close genetic relationship between P. falciparum populations in Asia. This study revealed the extent of the msp-3 gene diversity in P. falciparum in Thailand, providing the fundamental basis for the better design of future blood stage malaria vaccines against P. falciparum.

Dietary Probiotics Affect Gastrointestinal Microbiota, Histological Structure and Shell Mineralization in Turtles

PubMed Central

Rawski, Mateusz; Kierończyk, Bartosz; Długosz, Jakub; Świątkiewicz, Sylwester; Józefiak, Damian

2016-01-01

Probiotics are widely used in nutrition, and their mode of action is intensively studied in mammals and birds; however, it is almost unknown in reptiles. In the present study, Trachemys scripta scripta and Sternotherus odoratus were used to assess the effects of dietary probiotics on chelonian gastrointestinal tract microecology. In the first, 20-week experiment, 40 young T. s. scripta were randomly distributed to four experimental groups: 1st, (CON)–with no additives; 2nd, (SSPA) with Bacillus subtilis PB6; 3rd, (MSP)–with multiple strain probiotic; and 4th, (SSPB) with Bacillus subtilis C-3102. The first study has shown that SSPA and MSP decreased the numbers of total bacteria, Enterobacteriace, Staphylococcus sp. and Streptococcus sp. excreted to water and increased the villous height and mucosa thickness in duodenum. SSPB improved the duodenal microstructure; however, it also increased numbers of kanamycin and vancomycin resistant bacteria, Staphylococcus sp. and Streptococcus sp., in water. In the second, 52-week experiment, 30 S. odoratus were randomly assigned to three dietary treatments. CON, SSPA and MSP groups. The MSP preparation increased the body weight gain, crude ash, Ca and P share in the turtles’ shells. Both probiotics affected duodenal histomorphology. SSPA decreased the villous height, while MSP increased the villous height and mucosa thickness, and decreased the crypt depth. SSPA decreased the concentrations of bacteria excreted to water. In the case of intestinal microbiota, bacteria suppressing effects were observed in the case of both probiotics. MSP increased the number of Bifidobacterium sp. and Lactobacillus sp./Enteroccoccus sp., and decreased the number of Clostridium perfringens and Campylobacter sp. in the small intestine. In the large intestine it lowered, amongst others, Bacteroides–Pervotella cluster, Clostridium leptum subgroup and Clostridium perfringens numbers. The above-mentioned results suggest that probiotics are useful in turtle nutrition due to their positive effects on growth performance, shell mineralization, duodenal histomorphology and microbiota. PMID:26828367

Performance and health of Holstein calves fed different levels of milk fortified with symbiotic complex containing pre- and probiotics.

PubMed

Marcondes, M I; Pereira, T R; Chagas, J C C; Filgueiras, E A; Castro, M M D; Costa, G P; Sguizzato, A L L; Sainz, R D

2016-12-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance and health of Holstein calves fed low or high milk supply (MSP) with or without symbiotic complex (SYM) supplementation, consisting of prebiotics, probiotics, and fibrolytic enzymes. Thirty-two Holstein calves with body weight (BW) of 34 ± 7 kg were distributed in a randomized block design in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement. Treatments consisted of low and high MSP: 10 % of BW from 1st to 8th weeks after birth (low) and 20 % BW from 1st and 2nd weeks after birth, 15 % BW for the 3rd and 4th weeks after birth, and 10 % BW from 5th and 8th weeks after birth (high). Solid ration was supplied in addition to milk. Intake, ADG, diet digestibility, and fecal consistency index were evaluated. Low and high MSP groups tended (P < 0.10) to differ in calf growth, final BW (69 vs. 73 kg), post-weaning average weight gain (548 vs. 788 g/day), and final average weight gain (549 vs. 646 g/day) in low and high MSP calves, respectively. There was an interaction between MSP level and SYM on the digestibilities of dry matter (DM) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) (P < 0.10). In the low MSP group, inclusion of SYM increased digestibility of DM (0.720 to 0.736 g/kg) and NDF (0.758 to 0.783 g/kg). The inclusion of SYM improved calf health (P < 0.10) with a fecal score of 0.31 compared to 0.42 without SYM. Milk-feeding level was an important factor in calf performance, while SYM supplementation improved diet digestibility and animal health.

Evolution of the merozoite surface protein 7 (msp7) family in Plasmodium vivax and P. falciparum: A comparative approach.

PubMed

Castillo, Andreína I; Andreína Pacheco, M; Escalante, Ananias A

2017-06-01

Malaria parasites (genus Plasmodium) are a diverse group found in many species of vertebrate hosts. These parasites invade red blood cells in a complex process comprising several proteins, many encoded by multigene families, one of which is merozoite surface protein 7 (msp7). In the case of Plasmodium vivax, the most geographically widespread human-infecting species, differences in the number of paralogs within multigene families have been previously explained, at least in part, as potential adaptations to the human host. To explore this in msp7, we studied its orthologs in closely related nonhuman primate parasites; investigating both paralog evolutionary history and genetic polymorphism. The emerging patterns were then compared with the human parasite Plasmodium falciparum. We found that the evolution of the msp7 family is consistent with a birth-and-death model, where duplications, pseudogenizations, and gene loss events are common. However, all paralogs in P. vivax and P. falciparum had orthologs in their closely related species in non-human primates indicating that the ancestors of those paralogs precede the events leading to their origins as human parasites. Thus, the number of paralogs cannot be explained as an adaptation to human hosts. Although there is no functional information for msp7 in P. vivax, we found evidence for purifying selection in the genetic polymorphism of some of its paralogs as well as their orthologs in closely related non-human primate parasites. We also found evidence indicating that a few of P. vivax's paralogs may have diverged from their orthologs in non-human primates by episodic positive selection. Hence, they may had been under selection when the lineage leading to P. vivax diverged from the Asian non-human primates and switched into Homininae. All these lines of evidence suggest that msp7 is functionally important in P. vivax. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Changes and Correlates in Multiple Sexual Partnerships among Chinese Adult Women——Population Based Surveys in 2000 and 2006

PubMed Central

Yingying, Huang; Smith, Kumi; Suiming, Pan

2011-01-01

The sexual transmission of HIV and STI is becoming a major public health concern in China. However, studies on sexuality in China remain scant, particularly those that analyze female sexuality. This study is to investigate the prevalence of multiple sexual partnerships among adult women, and to examine trends and correlates for having more than one lifetime sexual partner. Multiple sexual partnership (MSP), coded as having one or none vs. two or more lifetime sexual partners, was the key binary outcome measure. The data were from two national probability surveys on sexual behaviors in China carried out in 2000 and 2006. The sample size of adult women was 1899 in 2000 (total sample n= 3812), and 2626 in 2006 (n=5404). Overall prevalence of MSP increased from 8.1% in 2000 to 29.6% in 2006 (Chi-square test, sig.=0.000). The most rapid changes took place among women with less education, those who worked in blue collar jobs and lower social status positions, and those living in rural areas or small towns. Women who were better educated, lived in big cities, and held management level occupations exhibited less change but had a higher baselines prevalence of MSP, suggesting that changes in MSP behavior may occur initially among women of higher socioeconomic status. Based on the 2006 dataset, significant positive correlates of MSP included more years of education, being in a long-term relationship, being middle aged, having a lower status job, going out dancing at entertainments venues, and being a state of overall health in the past 12 months. The significant recent increase in MSP among women reinforces the need to examine China’s sexual revolution in the context of a rapidly transitioning society. Findings regarding female sexuality also raise new questions to be explored in further sexuality studies, in order to better understand population sexual behaviors and to inform future HIV prevention efforts. PMID:21660755

Addressing uncertainty in modelling cumulative impacts within maritime spatial planning in the Adriatic and Ionian region.

PubMed

Gissi, Elena; Menegon, Stefano; Sarretta, Alessandro; Appiotti, Federica; Maragno, Denis; Vianello, Andrea; Depellegrin, Daniel; Venier, Chiara; Barbanti, Andrea

2017-01-01

Maritime spatial planning (MSP) is envisaged as a tool to apply an ecosystem-based approach to the marine and coastal realms, aiming at ensuring that the collective pressure of human activities is kept within acceptable limits. Cumulative impacts (CI) assessment can support science-based MSP, in order to understand the existing and potential impacts of human uses on the marine environment. A CI assessment includes several sources of uncertainty that can hinder the correct interpretation of its results if not explicitly incorporated in the decision-making process. This study proposes a three-level methodology to perform a general uncertainty analysis integrated with the CI assessment for MSP, applied to the Adriatic and Ionian Region (AIR). We describe the nature and level of uncertainty with the help of expert judgement and elicitation to include all of the possible sources of uncertainty related to the CI model with assumptions and gaps related to the case-based MSP process in the AIR. Next, we use the results to tailor the global uncertainty analysis to spatially describe the uncertainty distribution and variations of the CI scores dependent on the CI model factors. The results show the variability of the uncertainty in the AIR, with only limited portions robustly identified as the most or the least impacted areas under multiple model factors hypothesis. The results are discussed for the level and type of reliable information and insights they provide to decision-making. The most significant uncertainty factors are identified to facilitate the adaptive MSP process and to establish research priorities to fill knowledge gaps for subsequent planning cycles. The method aims to depict the potential CI effects, as well as the extent and spatial variation of the data and scientific uncertainty; therefore, this method constitutes a suitable tool to inform the potential establishment of the precautionary principle in MSP.

Le sevrage de l’allaitement

PubMed Central

Grueger, Barbara

2013-01-01

RÉSUMÉ L’allaitement exclusif assure une alimentation optimale aux nourrissons jusqu’à l’âge de six mois. Par la suite, les nourrissons ont besoin d’aliments complémentaires pour répondre à leurs besoins nutritionnels. C’est alors que le sevrage commence. Le sevrage désigne le processus graduel d’introduction d’aliments complémentaires au régime du nourrisson, tout en poursuivant l’allaitement. Il n’y a pas de moment universellement accepté ou scientifiquement démontré pour mettre un terme à l’allaitement. Le moment et le processus de sevrage doivent être adaptés par la mère et l’enfant. Le sevrage peut être soudain ou graduel, prendre plusieurs semaines ou plusieurs mois, être dirigé par l’enfant ou par la mère. Les médecins doivent orienter et soutenir les mères tout au long du processus de sevrage. Le présent document remplace le document de principes sur le sevrage qu’a publié la Société canadienne de pédiatrie en 2004.

The influence of intestinal parasites on Plasmodium vivax-specific antibody responses to MSP-119 and AMA-1 in rural populations of the Brazilian Amazon.

PubMed

Sánchez-Arcila, Juan Camilo; de França, Marcelle Marcolino; Pereira, Virginia Araujo; Vasconcelos, Mariana Pinheiro Alves; Têva, Antonio; Perce-da-Silva, Daiana de Souza; Neto, Joffre Rezende; Aprígio, Cesarino Junior Lima; Lima-Junior, Josue da Costa; Rodrigues, Mauricio Martins; Soares, Irene Silva; Banic, Dalma Maria; Oliveira-Ferreira, Joseli

2015-11-06

Polyparasitism is a common condition in humans but its impact on the host immune system and clinical diseases is still poorly understood. There are few studies of the prevalence and the effect of malaria-intestinal parasite co-infections in the immune response to malaria vaccine candidates. The present study determines whether the presence of malaria and intestinal parasites co-infection is associated with impaired IgG responses to Plasmodium vivax AMA-1 and MSP-119 in a rural population of the Brazilian Amazon. A cross-sectional survey was performed in a rural area of Rondonia State and 279 individuals were included in the present study. At recruitment, whole blood was collected and Plasmodium and intestinal parasites were detected by microscopy and molecular tests. Blood cell count and haemoglobin were also tested and antibody response specific to P. vivax AMA-1 and MSP-119 was measured in plasma by ELISA. The participants were grouped according to their infection status: singly infected with Plasmodium (M); co-infected with Plasmodium and intestinal parasites (CI); singly infected with intestinal parasites (IP) and negative (N) for both malaria and intestinal parasites. The prevalence of intestinal parasites was significantly higher in individuals with malaria and protozoan infections were more prevalent. IgG antibodies to PvAMA-1 and/or PvMSP-119 were detected in 74 % of the population. The prevalence of specific IgG was similar for both proteins in all four groups and among the groups the lowest prevalence was in IP group. The cytophilic sub-classes IgG1 and IgG3 were predominant in all groups for PvAMA-1 and IgG1, IgG3 and IgG4 for PvMSP-119. In the case of non-cytophilic antibodies to PvAMA-1, IgG2 was significantly higher in IP and N group when compared to M and CI while IgG4 was higher in IP group. The presence of intestinal parasites, mainly protozoans, in malaria co-infected individuals does not seem to alter the antibody immune responses to P. vivax AMA-1 and MSP-119. However, IgG response to both AMA1 and MSP1 were lower in individuals with intestinal parasites.

Préface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schober, Helmut; Fischer, Henry; Leclercq-Hugeux, Françoise

2003-09-01

L'École Thématique “Structure et Dynamique des Systèmes Désordonnés” [1] s'inscrit dans le cadre des écoles organisées sous l'impulsion de la Société Française de la Neutronique (SFN). Elle s'est deroulée en mai 2002 sur la Presqu'île de Giens (Var) en première partie des 11émes Journées de la Diffusion Neutronique. L'Édition de ces cours constitue ainsi le cinquième ouvrage introduisant les techniques neutroniques et leurs apports à differentes thématiques [2]. Le désordre est un facteur déterminant pour pratiquement toutes les propriétés des matériaux. Il est inhérent dans les matériaux amorphes ou liquides, mais il détermine également les propriétés mécaniques et électroniques d'autres composés d'importance technologique comme les matériaux métalliques, dont l'aspect “désordonné” est moins évident. Le désordre enfin joue un rôle essentiel dans tout ce que touche à la vie. En fait, il est difficile d'imaginer des systèmes, à part quelques exceptions rares comme l'hélium ou le silicium de haute pureté, où il n'y ait pas de désordre. En dehors de cet aspect pratique, la description scientifique du désordre atomique pose toujours des problèmes fondamentaux faute de concepts pertinents. Une des tâches importantes du scientifique ou de l'ingenieur est de préciser quel genre de désordre existe à une échelle d'espace et de temps donnée. Un materiau peut très bien être homogène à l'échelle atomique et présenter des défauts ou des hétrogéneité visibles à l'œil et inversement. De même, un système désordonné à un instant donné, peut apparaître ordonné si on moyenne dans le temps. Les techniques de diffusion des neutrons sont idéales pour aborder ces questions. Les neutrons sondent directement les noyaux et ont à la fois des longueurs d'ondes proches des distances inter atomiques et des énergies avoisinant celles des excitations élémentaires de la matière condensée. Ils permettent ainsi une observation directe et non-destructive des positions et des mouvements atomiques. La gamme des distances et des temps sondés par les neutrons autorisent aussi bien de suivre le mouvement des atomes à l'échelle inter atomique que l'évolution d'une structure soit mésoscopique soit macroscopique sur des temps de moins d'une picoseconde à plusieurs heures. La gamme des techniques de diffusion utilisées pour couvrir un tel champ d'application est naturellement très large : différents types de diffractomètres permettent des études de structure atomique trés pointue et résolue dans le temps. Les spectromètres nous donnent accès à la dynamique d'une dizaine de femto- à plusieurs nanosecondes. La diffusion aux petits angles, la reflectomètrie et finalement la tomographie nous permettent de regarder la structure et la dynamique d'objets plus grands. Il était illusoire de prétendre couvrir la totalité des systèmes désordonnés et l'ensemble des techniques de diffusion neutronique pertinentes au cours d'une école de 3 jours. Nous avons donc été amené à nous concentrer sur les liquides, les verres, les cristaux plastiques et les polymères. Ce choix s'est imposé par le souhait d'introduire les concepts de base, en acceptant de sacrifier certains domaines d'applications. Il va de soi que l'étude approfondie de systèmes mettant en jeu plusieurs échelles de distance (structure moléculaire, portée des corrélations entre les molécules) et de temps (relaxations caractéristiques des divers phenomènes dynamiques selon leur extension spatiale) implique une pluralité de techniques expérimentales, complémentaires des différentes techniques neutroniques disponibles. Un des objectifs de cette école etait donc de préciser les domaines de pertinence des différentes techniques neutroniques disponibles en en situant la complémentarité avec d'autres approches instrumentales (diffraction des rayons X, EXAFS, RMN, etc.). Enfin la confrontation avec les résultats obtenus par simulation et modélisation numérique est essentielle à la compréhension des processus élémentaires dans ces systèmes complexes. En première partie de cet ouvrage, on trouvera une description géntrale des systèmes désordonnés et une introduction aux techniques de diffusion de neutrons. Pour la partie concernant la structure, une revue des techniques de diffraction est suivie par des applications à des systèmes de complexité croissante (liquides métalliques simples, alliages liquides, semiconducteurs fondus, solutions aqueuses, verres d'oxydes). L'apport des méthodes de variation de longueur de diffusion (substitution isotopique pour les mesures aux neutrons, diffusion anomale des rayons X ou combinaison de ces deux techniques) permet la détermination des facteurs de structures partiels. Pour la dynamique, on a privilégié une approche introduisant progressivement le désordre en passant des solides aux liquides. Le concept de diffusion puis les particularités dynamiques des verres sont ensuite présentés et illustrés par des exemples concrets. Enfin la dernière partie est consacrée à la simulation numérique des propriétés dynamiques des verres et des liquides et à la modélisation de la structure par méthode de Monte Carlo inverse (RMC) à partir de l'ensemble des données expérimentales existant pour un système donné. La communauté française a joué un rôle important dans le développement des techniques neutroniques dédites à l'étude des systèmes désordonnés et y a acquis une competence reconnue. Nous avons essayé, dans cet ouvrage, de privilégier les aspects pédagogiques des cours, pour les rendre accessibles aux scientifiques francophones non spécialistes en diffusion des neutrons. Nous saluons ici l'effort de rédaction, en langue française, des différents intervenants et souhaitons que cet ouvrage puisse participer à la formation et au renouvellement de la communauté neutronique française. Helmut Schober et Henry Fischer (Editeurs scientifiques) Françoise Leclercq-Hugeux (Présidente de la SFN)

Prise en charge des plaies du périnée en post partum: faut-il prescrire systématiquement un antibiotique?

PubMed Central

Fouelifack, Florent Ymele; Eko, Filbert Eko; Ko’A, Claude Odile Vanessa Ebode; Fouedjio, Jeanne Hortence; Mbu, Robinson Enow

2017-01-01

Résumé Introduction L'intégrité des voies génitales n'est pas toujours respectée au cours de l'accouchement. Aucun protocole de prise en charge des plaies périnéales du post-partum (déchirures et épisiotomies) n'existant dans nos services, la prise en charge reste praticien dépendant. Nous avons entrepris cette étude dans le but d'établir l'intérêt de l'antibiotique dans le traitement des plaies périnéales du post-partum. Notre objectif était d'évaluer l'impact de l'antibioprophylaxie sur le processus de cicatrisation et dans la prévention des complications infectieuses après réparation. Méthodes Il s'agissait d'une étude de cohorte prospective sur une durée de 6 mois, soit du 1er janvier au 31 mai 2016, menée dans l'Unité de Gynécologie et Obstétriques de l'Hôpital Central de Yaoundé. Deux groupes A et B d'accouchées avec déchirure périnéale et/ou épisiotomie étaient suivies. Le groupe A était composé de 85 accouchées à qui on avait prescrit le protocole compresse imbibée de Bétadine® (placebo). Le groupe B (ou groupe test) était composé d'accouchées qui en plus du placebo, avaient la prescription d'un antibiotique (association 1000mg d'amoxicilline et 125mg d'acide clavulanique à raison de 1000mg 2fois par jour par voie orale pendant 05 jours). Les 2 groupes étaient suivis à J0, J2 et J9. Nos critères d'évaluation de la prise en charge étaient: la douleur, l'infection, la tuméfaction, la propreté de la plaies et le delai de cicatrisation complete. Les données étaient saisies et analysées à l'aide des logiciels Epidata analysis version 3.2 et STATA version 12.0 (Texas USA 2001). Les corrélations entre les variables étaient recherchées selon le cas par le chi carré, l'Odds ratio et avec la valeur de P (significatif pour toute valeur ≤ 0.05). Résultats La moyenne d'âge était de 26.32 ± 6.5 ans avec des extrêmes de 15 et 43 ans. Les primipares représentaient 55.9% de la population d'étude. La douleur représentait le principal symptôme à J0 post-partum sans prédominance significative d'un groupe (OR = 0.9; IC = 0.14-7.19; P = 1). Les plaies tuméfiées étaient la deuxième plainte sans variation significative dans les deux groupes (OR = 1.69 ; IC = 0.88-3.24 ; P = 0.13). Aucune variation significative n'a été observée à J0, J2 et J9 entre les 2 protocoles en ce qui concerne les indicateurs étudiés : évolution de la douleur, l'infection, la tuméfaction et le délai de cicatrisation. A J9 la guérison était complète dans les deux groupes et les 2 protocoles s'équivalaient au niveau de l'efficacité et la prévention des infections. Conclusion Au terme de cette étude les deux protocoles étaient équivalents. Nous concluons que pour l'intérêt de l'économie de la santé, il n'est pas utile de prescrire les antibiotiques pour la prise en charge des plaies périnéales. PMID:29564033

Multi-Stakeholder Process Strengthens Agricultural Innovations and Sustainable Livelihoods of Farmers in Southern Nigeria

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bisseleua, D. H. B.; Idrissou, L.; Olurotimi, P.; Ogunniyi, A.; Mignouna, D.; Bamire, S. A.

2018-01-01

Purpose: In this paper, we explore the strategic role of Multi-stakeholder processes (MSP) in agricultural innovations and how it has impacted livelihood assets' (LAs) capital dynamics of stakeholders in platforms in West Africa. Design/Methodology/Approach: We demonstrate how LA capitals and socio-economic dynamics induced by MSP can enhance…

46 CFR 296.60 - Applications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... under 46 U.S.C. 3517, to perform qualified M&R of one or more MSP vessels in United States shipyards... qualified M&R of one or more MSP vessels in United States shipyards, subject to the terms of this section... inspection referred to in paragraph (e)(1)(i) of this section, to be necessary; and (iii) Any additional M&R...

46 CFR 296.60 - Applications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... under 46 U.S.C. 3517, to perform qualified M&R of one or more MSP vessels in United States shipyards... qualified M&R of one or more MSP vessels in United States shipyards, subject to the terms of this section... inspection referred to in paragraph (e)(1)(i) of this section, to be necessary; and (iii) Any additional M&R...

46 CFR 296.60 - Applications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... under 46 U.S.C. 3517, to perform qualified M&R of one or more MSP vessels in United States shipyards... qualified M&R of one or more MSP vessels in United States shipyards, subject to the terms of this section... inspection referred to in paragraph (e)(1)(i) of this section, to be necessary; and (iii) Any additional M&R...

46 CFR 296.60 - Applications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... under 46 U.S.C. 3517, to perform qualified M&R of one or more MSP vessels in United States shipyards... qualified M&R of one or more MSP vessels in United States shipyards, subject to the terms of this section... inspection referred to in paragraph (e)(1)(i) of this section, to be necessary; and (iii) Any additional M&R...

Conservation in the face of diversity: multistrain analysis of an intracellular bacterium

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Comparisons of multiple strains revealed that A. marginale has a closed-core genome with few highly plastic regions, which include the msp2 and msp3 genes, as well as the aaap locus. Comparison of the Florida and St. Maries genome sequences found that SNPs comprise 0.8% of the longer Florida genome,...

A Comparative Study of Test Data Dimensionality Assessment Procedures Under Nonparametric IRT Models

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

van Abswoude, Alexandra A. H.; van der Ark, L. Andries; Sijtsma, Klaas

2004-01-01

In this article, an overview of nonparametric item response theory methods for determining the dimensionality of item response data is provided. Four methods were considered: MSP, DETECT, HCA/CCPROX, and DIMTEST. First, the methods were compared theoretically. Second, a simulation study was done to compare the effectiveness of MSP, DETECT, and…

Microscale Soft Patterning for Solution Processable Metal Oxide Thin Film Transistors.

PubMed

Jung, Sang Wook; Chae, Soo Sang; Park, Jee Ho; Oh, Jin Young; Bhang, Suk Ho; Baik, Hong Koo; Lee, Tae Il

2016-03-23

We introduce a microscale soft pattering (MSP) route utilizing contact printing of chemically inert sub-nanometer thick low molecular weight (LMW) poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) layers. These PDMS layers serve as a release agent layer between the n-type Ohmic metal and metal oxide semiconductors (MOSs) and provide a layer that protects the MOS from water in the surrounding environment. The feasibility of our MSP route was experimentally demonstrated by fabricating solution processable In2O3, IZO, and IGZO TFTs with aluminum (Al), a typical n-type Ohmic metal. We have demonstrated patterning gaps as small as 13 μm. The TFTs fabricated using MSP showed higher field-effect-mobility and lower hysteresis in comparison with those made using conventional photolithography.

Préface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jörgen Stevefelt, Henri Bachau Et

2003-06-01

UVX 2002, sixième édition du “Colloque sur les Sources Cohérentes et Incohérentes UV, VUV, et X : Applications et Développements Récents" s'est tenu du 11 au 14 juin 2002 au Centre CAES du CNRS “La Vieille, Perrotine", à Saint-Pierre d'Oléron. Le colloque a réunni une centaine de chercheurs et d'industriels et a permis de faire le point sur la production, la caractérisation et l'utilisation de rayonnement dans un domaine spectral s'étendant de l'ultraviolet aux rayons X. Les participants ont pu assister a trente conférences et une table ronde autour des problèmes locaux de pollution, une cinquantaine d'affiches ont été présentées au travers de deux sessions. Une douzaine d'industriels ont exposé leurs produits durant les séances d'affiches.Conformément aux éditions précédentes, les domaines couverts par le colloque UVX 2002 sont très variés et il est impossible de les résumer en quelques lignes. Parmi les activités en développement rapide on notera les lasers femtosecondes dont les applications se multiplient dans les laboratoires (propriétés des molécules, agrégats et solides), dans l'industrie (usinage, ablation...) et en médecine. L'absence de thermalisation ou de diffusion thermique ouvre aussi des perspectives pour la réalisation de films minces par ablation laser, un domaine où les lasers excimères sont traditionnellement utilisés, avec des applications importantes dans le secteur des télécommunications. Dans le domaine de l'extrème UV, des progrès significatifs ont été réalisés par plusieurs groupes dans la gamme de longueur d'onde de 5 à 20 nm, ouvrant ainsi la voie au développement industriel de la lithographie EUV. On note les progrès dans la réalisation des sources UV et X (laser X, génération d'harmoniques, laser a électrons libres) et la nécessité de développer des optiques adaptées. Une perspective intéressante, ouverte par la génération d'harmoniques, est la production d'impulsions attosecondes qui permettra d'explorer la matière à l'echelle de temps atomique. En même temps la caractérisation de ces impulsions nécessite la conception de techniques nouvelles d'analyse du signal aux temps ultra brefs.L'intéret particulier du colloque UVX est de réunir les communautés de scientifiques qui vont des chercheurs s'intéressant aux processus fondamentaux à ceux travaillant dans les domaines les plus appliqués, voire industriels. Une caractéristique marquante de notre discipline est la rapidité avec laquelle les progrès réalisés dans les laboratoires de recherche sont diffusés vers les applications industrielles. Il est donc important de maintenir un bon équilibre entre les recherches a caractères fondamental et appliqué dans les laboratoires.Nous tenons remercier les membres du comité d'organisation, le comité scientifique et les différents partenaires, institutionnels et industriels, qui par leur soutien ont permis que le colloque UVX puisse se dérouler. Ce colloque a été parrainé par les départements des Sciences Physiques et Mathématiques (SPM) et des Sciences pour l'Ingénieur (SPI) du CNRS, la Délégation Générale de l'Armement (DGA), le CEA DRECAM, le CEA DAM, le Conseil Géneral de Charente Maritime, l'Université de Bordeaux I, la Société Française d'optique, le Groupement de Recherche “SAXO" du CNRS et la société Air Liquide.

Genetic and Genomic Diversity Studies of Acacia Symbionts in Senegal Reveal New Species of Mesorhizobium with a Putative Geographical Pattern

PubMed Central

Diouf, Fatou; Diouf, Diegane; Klonowska, Agnieszka; Le Queré, Antoine; Bakhoum, Niokhor; Fall, Dioumacor; Neyra, Marc; Parrinello, Hugues; Diouf, Mayecor; Ndoye, Ibrahima; Moulin, Lionel

2015-01-01

Acacia senegal (L) Willd. and Acacia seyal Del. are highly nitrogen-fixing and moderately salt tolerant species. In this study we focused on the genetic and genomic diversity of Acacia mesorhizobia symbionts from diverse origins in Senegal and investigated possible correlations between the genetic diversity of the strains, their soil of origin, and their tolerance to salinity. We first performed a multi-locus sequence analysis on five markers gene fragments on a collection of 47 mesorhizobia strains of A. senegal and A. seyal from 8 localities. Most of the strains (60%) clustered with the M. plurifarium type strain ORS 1032T, while the others form four new clades (MSP1 to MSP4). We sequenced and assembled seven draft genomes: four in the M. plurifarium clade (ORS3356, ORS3365, STM8773 and ORS1032T), one in MSP1 (STM8789), MSP2 (ORS3359) and MSP3 (ORS3324). The average nucleotide identities between these genomes together with the MLSA analysis reveal three new species of Mesorhizobium. A great variability of salt tolerance was found among the strains with a lack of correlation between the genetic diversity of mesorhizobia, their salt tolerance and the soils samples characteristics. A putative geographical pattern of A. senegal symbionts between the dryland north part and the center of Senegal was found, reflecting adaptations to specific local conditions such as the water regime. However, the presence of salt does not seem to be an important structuring factor of Mesorhizobium species. PMID:25658650

Characterizing the Hot Spots Involved in RON-MSPβ Complex Formation Using In Silico Alanine Scanning Mutagenesis and Molecular Dynamics Simulation

PubMed Central

Zarei, Omid; Hamzeh-Mivehroud, Maryam; Benvenuti, Silvia; Ustun-Alkan, Fulya; Dastmalchi, Siavoush

2017-01-01

Purpose: Implication of protein-protein interactions (PPIs) in development of many diseases such as cancer makes them attractive for therapeutic intervention and rational drug design. RON (Recepteur d’Origine Nantais) tyrosine kinase receptor has gained considerable attention as promising target in cancer therapy. The activation of RON via its ligand, macrophage stimulation protein (MSP) is the most common mechanism of activation for this receptor. The aim of the current study was to perform in silico alanine scanning mutagenesis and to calculate binding energy for prediction of hot spots in protein-protein interface between RON and MSPβ chain (MSPβ). Methods: In this work the residues at the interface of RON-MSPβ complex were mutated to alanine and then molecular dynamics simulation was used to calculate binding free energy. Results: The results revealed that Gln193, Arg220, Glu287, Pro288, Glu289, and His424 residues from RON and Arg521, His528, Ser565, Glu658, and Arg683 from MSPβ may play important roles in protein-protein interaction between RON and MSP. Conclusion: Identification of these RON hot spots is important in designing anti-RON drugs when the aim is to disrupt RON-MSP interaction. In the same way, the acquired information regarding the critical amino acids of MSPβ can be used in the process of rational drug design for developing MSP antagonizing agents, the development of novel MSP mimicking peptides where inhibition of RON activation is required, and the design of experimental site directed mutagenesis studies. PMID:28507948

Microbial pathway for anaerobic 5′-methylthioadenosine metabolism coupled to ethylene formation

PubMed Central

North, Justin A.; Miller, Anthony R.; Wildenthal, John A.; Young, Sarah J.; Tabita, F. Robert

2017-01-01

Numerous cellular processes involving S-adenosyl-l-methionine result in the formation of the toxic by-product, 5′-methylthioadenosine (MTA). To prevent inhibitory MTA accumulation and retain biologically available sulfur, most organisms possess the “universal” methionine salvage pathway (MSP). However, the universal MSP is inherently aerobic due to a requirement of molecular oxygen for one of the key enzymes. Here, we report the presence of an exclusively anaerobic MSP that couples MTA metabolism to ethylene formation in the phototrophic bacteria Rhodospirillum rubrum and Rhodopseudomonas palustris. In vivo metabolite analysis of gene deletion strains demonstrated that this anaerobic MSP functions via sequential action of MTA phosphorylase (MtnP), 5-(methylthio)ribose-1-phosphate isomerase (MtnA), and an annotated class II aldolase-like protein (Ald2) to form 2-(methylthio)acetaldehyde as an intermediate. 2-(Methylthio)acetaldehyde is reduced to 2-(methylthio)ethanol, which is further metabolized as a usable organic sulfur source, generating stoichiometric amounts of ethylene in the process. Ethylene induction experiments using 2-(methylthio)ethanol versus sulfate as sulfur sources further indicate anaerobic ethylene production from 2-(methylthio)ethanol requires protein synthesis and that this process is regulated. Finally, phylogenetic analysis reveals that the genes corresponding to these enzymes, and presumably the pathway, are widespread among anaerobic and facultatively anaerobic bacteria from soil and freshwater environments. These results not only establish the existence of a functional, exclusively anaerobic MSP, but they also suggest a possible route by which ethylene is produced by microbes in anoxic environments. PMID:29133429

Maternal smoking during pregnancy and risk of alcohol use disorders among adult offspring.

PubMed

Nomura, Yoko; Gilman, Stephen E; Buka, Stephen L

2011-03-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between maternal smoking during pregnancy (MSP) and lifetime risk for alcohol use disorder (AUD) and to explore possible mechanisms through which MSP may be related to neurobehavioral conditions during infancy and childhood, which could, in turn, lead to increased risk for AUD. A sample of 1,625 individuals was followed from pregnancy for more than 40 years. Capitalizing on the long follow-up time, we used survival analysis to examine lifetime risks of AUD (diagnosed according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition) in relation to levels of MSP (none, <20 cigarettes/day, and ≥20 cigarettes/day). We then used structural equation modeling to test hypotheses regarding potential mechanisms, including lower birth weight, neurological abnormalities, poorer academic functioning, and behavioral dysregulation. Relative to unexposed offspring, offspring of mothers who smoked 20 cigarettes per day or more exhibited greater risks for AUD (hazard ratio = 1.31, 95% CI [1.08, 1.59]). However, no differences were observed among offspring exposed to fewer than 20 cigarettes per day. In structural equation models, MSP was associated with neurobehavioral problems during infancy and childhood, which, in turn, were associated with an increased risk for adult AUD. MSP was associated with an increased lifetime risk for AUD. Adverse consequences were evident from birth to adulthood. A two-pronged remedial intervention targeted at both the mother (to reduce smoking during pregnancy) and child (to improve academic functioning) may reduce the risk for subsequent AUD.

Planning the diffusion of a neck-injury prevention programme among community rugby union coaches.

PubMed

Donaldson, Alex; Poulos, Roslyn G

2014-01-01

This paper describes the development of a theory-informed and evidence-informed, context-specific diffusion plan for the Mayday Safety Procedure (MSP) among community rugby coaches in regional New South Wales, Australia. Step 5 of Intervention Mapping was used to plan strategies to enhance MSP adoption and implementation. Coaches were identified as the primary MSP adopters and implementers within a system including administrators, players and referees. A local advisory group was established to ensure context relevance. Performance objectives (eg, attend MSP training for coaches) and determinants of adoption and implementation behaviour (eg, knowledge, beliefs, skills and environment) were identified, informed by Social Cognitive Theory. Adoption and implementation matrices were developed and change-objectives for coaches were identified (eg, skills to deliver MSP training to players). Finally, intervention methods and specific strategies (eg, coach education, social marketing and policy and by-law development) were identified based on advisory group member experience, evidence of effective coach safety behaviour-change interventions and Diffusion of Innovations theory. This is the first published example of a systematic approach to plan injury prevention programme diffusion in community sports. The key strengths of this approach were an effective researcher-practitioner partnership; actively engaging local sports administrators; targeting specific behaviour determinants, informed by theory and evidence; and taking context-related practical strengths and constraints into consideration. The major challenges were the time involved in using a systematic diffusion planning approach for the first time; and finding a planning language that was acceptable and meaningful to researchers and practitioners.

Quantitative analysis of tumor-derived methylated RUNX3 sequences in the serum of gastric cancer patients.

PubMed

Sakakura, Chouhei; Hamada, Takuo; Miyagawa, Koji; Nishio, Minoru; Miyashita, Atushi; Nagata, Hiroyuki; Ida, Hiroshi; Yazumi, Shujiro; Otsuji, Eigo; Chiba, Tsutomu; Ito, Kosei; Ito, Yoshiaki

2009-07-01

Using real-time quantitative methylation-specific PCR (RTQ-MSP), methylated RUNX3 sequences were quantified and the fractional concentrations of circulating tumor DNA in serum were determined, along with peripheral blood cells collected preoperatively, intraoperatively and postoperatively from 65 patients with gastric cancer. RTQ-MSP was sufficiently sensitive to detect RUNX3 methylation. Quantitative MSP data were expressed in terms of the methylation index, which was defined as the relative amount of methylated RUNX3 sequences divided by the concentration of methylated actin. High levels of methylated RUNX3 sequences were detected in the peripheral circulation of 29% (19 of 65) of the gastric cancer patients. The RUNX3 methylation index was concordant with cancer stage, histology, lymphatic and vascular invasion, and was more sensitive than carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) as a biomarker. Twenty-nine percent (19 out of 65) of preoperative serum samples had methylated RUNX3 sequences, ranging from 5.2 to 1625955 (median quantity=43 m-index, sensitivity 95.5%, specificity 62.5%, AUC 0.8651). After surgical resection, the median RUNX3 methylation index in serum significantly decreased. These results demonstrate the clinical usefulness and effectiveness of peripheral blood RTQ-MSP for detecting and monitoring gastric cancer after treatment. Furthermore, 5 out of the 30 preoperative control samples of benign disease (cases of panperitonitis due to acute appendicitis or cholecystitis) showed transient RUNX3 methylation which decreased after the operation in accordance with recovery. Quantification of epigenetic changes in serum RUNX3 methylation using RTQ-MSP is useful for the detection and monitoring of gastric cancer.

Ecosystem service tradeoff analysis reveals the value of marine spatial planning for multiple ocean uses

PubMed Central

White, Crow; Halpern, Benjamin S.; Kappel, Carrie V.

2012-01-01

Marine spatial planning (MSP) is an emerging responsibility of resource managers around the United States and elsewhere. A key proposed advantage of MSP is that it makes tradeoffs in resource use and sector (stakeholder group) values explicit, but doing so requires tools to assess tradeoffs. We extended tradeoff analyses from economics to simultaneously assess multiple ecosystem services and the values they provide to sectors using a robust, quantitative, and transparent framework. We used the framework to assess potential conflicts among offshore wind energy, commercial fishing, and whale-watching sectors in Massachusetts and identify and quantify the value from choosing optimal wind farm designs that minimize conflicts among these sectors. Most notably, we show that using MSP over conventional planning could prevent >$1 million dollars in losses to the incumbent fishery and whale-watching sectors and could generate >$10 billion in extra value to the energy sector. The value of MSP increased with the greater the number of sectors considered and the larger the area under management. Importantly, the framework can be applied even when sectors are not measured in dollars (e.g., conservation). Making tradeoffs explicit improves transparency in decision-making, helps avoid unnecessary conflicts attributable to perceived but weak tradeoffs, and focuses debate on finding the most efficient solutions to mitigate real tradeoffs and maximize sector values. Our analysis demonstrates the utility, feasibility, and value of MSP and provides timely support for the management transitions needed for society to address the challenges of an increasingly crowded ocean environment. PMID:22392996

Medical Child Abuse (Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy): Multidisciplinary Approach from a Pediatric Gastroenterology Perspective.

PubMed

Ali-Panzarella, Andrea Z; Bryant, Tamika J; Marcovitch, Hannah; Lewis, Jeffery D

2017-04-01

We highlight the need for a multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis of medical child abuse, also known as factitious disorder imposed on another (FDIA) or Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSP), and review our experience focusing on the variety of symptoms that often present to the pediatric gastroenterologist many months before the diagnosis is made. Recent literature on medical child abuse, mostly case reports, is markedly limited, highlighting a need for increased research on this topic. Articles agree on the value of a multidisciplinary approach to these cases and the importance of involving professionals outside the hospital setting. Given the technology-dependent nature of our current society, the use of social media to aid in making the diagnosis has emerged. Review of the literature shows that there are almost no data on long-term outcomes of the victims or perpetrators of MSP. Making the diagnosis of MSP involves a complicated process of piecing together inconsistencies among the history, examination, and clinical presentation. The diagnosis remains difficult and is not often considered during early presentation of symptoms. Once MSP is suspected, it is important that a multidisciplinary process is used, incorporating input from various sources: the outpatient care structure, the hospital, non-hospital agencies such as school and child protective services, and non-traditional sources such as social media. In our experience, a multidisciplinary approach augmented by thoughtful inpatient surveillance provides the greatest opportunity for confirming or excluding MSP. Pediatric gastroenterology is one of the most common services consulted prior to diagnosis and presents an opportunity for early intervention.

Intermediate Trends in Math and Science Partnership-Related Changes in Student Achievement with Management Information System Data

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dimitrov, Dimiter M.

2009-01-01

This substudy in the evaluation design of the Math and Science Partnership (MSP) Program Evaluation examines student proficiency in mathematics and science for the MSPs' schools in terms of changes across three years (2003/04, 2004/05, and 2005/06) and relationships with MSP-related variables using Management Information System data with the…

Plasmodium falciparum Malaria in the Peruvian Amazon, a Region of Low Transmission, Is Associated with Immunologic Memory

PubMed Central

Clark, Eva H.; Silva, Claudia J.; Weiss, Greta E.; Li, Shanping; Padilla, Carlos; Crompton, Peter D.; Hernandez, Jean N.

2012-01-01

The development of clinical immunity to Plasmodium falciparum malaria is thought to require years of parasite exposure, a delay often attributed to difficulties in developing protective antibody levels. In this study, we evaluated several P. falciparum vaccine candidate antigens, including apical membrane antigen 1 (AMA-1), circumsporozoite protein (CSP), erythrocyte binding antigen 175 (EBA-175), and the 19-kDa region of merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP119). After observing a more robust antibody response to MSP119, we evaluated the magnitude and longevity of IgG responses specific to this antigen in Peruvian adults and children before, during, and after P. falciparum infection. In this low-transmission region, even one reported prior infection was sufficient to produce a positive anti-MSP119 IgG response for >5 months in the absence of reinfection. We also observed an expansion of the total plasmablast (CD19+ CD27+ CD38high) population in the majority of individuals shortly after infection and detected MSP1-specific memory B cells in a subset of individuals at various postinfection time points. This evidence supports our hypothesis that effective antimalaria humoral immunity can develop in low-transmission regions. PMID:22252876

Plasmodium falciparum malaria in the Peruvian Amazon, a region of low transmission, is associated with immunologic memory.

PubMed

Clark, Eva H; Silva, Claudia J; Weiss, Greta E; Li, Shanping; Padilla, Carlos; Crompton, Peter D; Hernandez, Jean N; Branch, OraLee H

2012-04-01

The development of clinical immunity to Plasmodium falciparum malaria is thought to require years of parasite exposure, a delay often attributed to difficulties in developing protective antibody levels. In this study, we evaluated several P. falciparum vaccine candidate antigens, including apical membrane antigen 1 (AMA-1), circumsporozoite protein (CSP), erythrocyte binding antigen 175 (EBA-175), and the 19-kDa region of merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1(19)). After observing a more robust antibody response to MSP1(19), we evaluated the magnitude and longevity of IgG responses specific to this antigen in Peruvian adults and children before, during, and after P. falciparum infection. In this low-transmission region, even one reported prior infection was sufficient to produce a positive anti-MSP1(19) IgG response for >5 months in the absence of reinfection. We also observed an expansion of the total plasmablast (CD19(+) CD27(+) CD38(high)) population in the majority of individuals shortly after infection and detected MSP1-specific memory B cells in a subset of individuals at various postinfection time points. This evidence supports our hypothesis that effective antimalaria humoral immunity can develop in low-transmission regions.

The risk of developing cervical cancer in Mexican women is associated to CYP1A1 MspI polymorphism.

PubMed

Juárez-Cedillo, Teresa; Vallejo, Maite; Fragoso, José Manuel; Hernández-Hernández, Dulce Maria; Rodríguez-Pérez, José Manuel; Sánchez-García, Sergio; del Carmen García-Peña, María; García-Carrancá, Alejandro; Mohar-Betancourt, Alejandro; Granados, Julio; Vargas-Alarcón, Gilberto

2007-07-01

The aim of the study was to evaluate the association of two CYP1A1 polymorphisms (Msp1 and exon 7) with cervical cancer in Mexican women considering their smoking habit. The polymorphisms were determined in 310 individuals (155 with cervical cancer and 155 healthy controls). Women with MspI T/C or C/C showed increased risk of developing cervical cancer (3.7- and 8.3-fold increase, respectively) compared to women with T/T genotype. When smoking habit was considered, the risk for non-smokers with T/C and C/C genotypes was similar (5.2 and 4.1, respectively), whereas smoking women with C/C genotype showed a 19.4-fold increase of cervical cancer. Number of child births, number of sexual partners and marital status were strong risk factors for developing cervical cancer in women with T/T genotype; however, in women with T/C genotype, only the number of child births and sexual partners had a significant influence. These results suggest an important role of the CYP1A1 MspI polymorphism in the risk of developing cervical cancer.

Asymptomatic infection in individuals from the municipality of Barcelos (Brazilian Amazon) is not associated with the anti-Plasmodium falciparum glycosylphosphatidylinositol antibody response

PubMed Central

Gomes, Larissa Rodrigues; Totino, Paulo Renato Rivas; Sanchez, Maria Carmen Arroyo; Daniel, Elsa Paula da Silva Kaingona; de Macedo, Cristiana Santos; Fortes, Filomeno; Coura, José Rodrigues; Santi, Silvia Maria Di; Werneck, Guilherme Loureiro; Suárez-Mutis, Martha Cecilia; Ferreira-da-Cruz, Maria de Fátima; Daniel-Ribeiro, Cláudio Tadeu

2013-01-01

Anti-glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) antibodies (Abs) may reflect and mediate, at least partially, anti-disease immunity in malaria by neutralising the toxic effect of parasitic GPI. Thus, we assessed the anti-GPI Ab response in asymptomatic individuals living in an area of the Brazilian Amazon that has a high level of malaria transmission. For comparative purposes, we also investigated the Ab response to a crude extract prepared from Plasmodium falciparum, the merozoite surface protein (MSP)3 antigen of P. falciparum and the MSP 1 antigen of Plasmodium vivax (PvMSP1-19) in these individuals and in Angolan patients with acute malaria. Our data suggest that the Ab response against P. falciparum GPI is not associated with P. falciparum asymptomatic infection in individuals who have been chronically exposed to malaria in the Brazilian Amazon. However, this Ab response could be related to ongoing parasitaemia (as was previously shown) in the Angolan patients. In addition, our data show that PvMSP1-19may be a good marker antigen to reflect previous exposure to Plasmodium in areas that have a high transmission rate of P. vivax. PMID:24037204

An Eph receptor sperm-sensing control mechanism for oocyte meiotic maturation in Caenorhabditis elegans.

PubMed

Miller, Michael A; Ruest, Paul J; Kosinski, Mary; Hanks, Steven K; Greenstein, David

2003-01-15

During sexual reproduction in most animals, oocytes arrest in meiotic prophase and resume meiosis (meiotic maturation) in response to sperm or somatic cell signals. Despite progress in delineating mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and CDK/cyclin activation pathways involved in meiotic maturation, it is less clear how these pathways are regulated at the cell surface. The Caenorhabditis elegans major sperm protein (MSP) signals oocytes, which are arrested in meiotic prophase, to resume meiosis and ovulate. We used DNA microarray data and an in situ binding assay to identify the VAB-1 Eph receptor protein-tyrosine kinase as an MSP receptor. We show that VAB-1 and a somatic gonadal sheath cell-dependent pathway, defined by the CEH-18 POU-class homeoprotein, negatively regulate meiotic maturation and MAPK activation. MSP antagonizes these inhibitory signaling circuits, in part by binding VAB-1 on oocytes and sheath cells. Our results define a sperm-sensing control mechanism that inhibits oocyte maturation, MAPK activation, and ovulation when sperm are unavailable for fertilization. MSP-domain proteins are found in diverse animal taxa, where they may regulate contact-dependent Eph receptor signaling pathways.

A Novel Malaria Vaccine Candidate Antigen Expressed in Tetrahymena thermophila

PubMed Central

Eleni-Muus, Janna; Aldag, Ingo; Samuel, Kay; Creasey, Alison M.; Hartmann, Marcus W. W.; Cavanagh, David R.

2014-01-01

Development of effective malaria vaccines is hampered by the problem of producing correctly folded Plasmodium proteins for use as vaccine components. We have investigated the use of a novel ciliate expression system, Tetrahymena thermophila, as a P. falciparum vaccine antigen platform. A synthetic vaccine antigen composed of N-terminal and C-terminal regions of merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP-1) was expressed in Tetrahymena thermophila. The recombinant antigen was secreted into the culture medium and purified by monoclonal antibody (mAb) affinity chromatography. The vaccine was immunogenic in MF1 mice, eliciting high antibody titers against both N- and C-terminal components. Sera from immunized animals reacted strongly with P. falciparum parasites from three antigenically different strains by immunofluorescence assays, confirming that the antibodies produced are able to recognize parasite antigens in their native form. Epitope mapping of serum reactivity with a peptide library derived from all three MSP-1 Block 2 serotypes confirmed that the MSP-1 Block 2 hybrid component of the vaccine had effectively targeted all three serotypes of this polymorphic region of MSP-1. This study has successfully demonstrated the use of Tetrahymena thermophila as a recombinant protein expression platform for the production of malaria vaccine antigens. PMID:24489871

Multiscale Poincaré plots for visualizing the structure of heartbeat time series.

PubMed

Henriques, Teresa S; Mariani, Sara; Burykin, Anton; Rodrigues, Filipa; Silva, Tiago F; Goldberger, Ary L

2016-02-09

Poincaré delay maps are widely used in the analysis of cardiac interbeat interval (RR) dynamics. To facilitate visualization of the structure of these time series, we introduce multiscale Poincaré (MSP) plots. Starting with the original RR time series, the method employs a coarse-graining procedure to create a family of time series, each of which represents the system's dynamics in a different time scale. Next, the Poincaré plots are constructed for the original and the coarse-grained time series. Finally, as an optional adjunct, color can be added to each point to represent its normalized frequency. We illustrate the MSP method on simulated Gaussian white and 1/f noise time series. The MSP plots of 1/f noise time series reveal relative conservation of the phase space area over multiple time scales, while those of white noise show a marked reduction in area. We also show how MSP plots can be used to illustrate the loss of complexity when heartbeat time series from healthy subjects are compared with those from patients with chronic (congestive) heart failure syndrome or with atrial fibrillation. This generalized multiscale approach to Poincaré plots may be useful in visualizing other types of time series.

Summer Research Paper

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Patel, Zarana

2011-01-01

Certain populations such as chemotherapy patients and atomic bomb survivors have been exposed to ionizing radiation and experience tissue damage and cancer initiation and progression. One cancer that can be initiated from radiation is esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), an epithelial cancer that has a survival rate as low as 20%. Researchers have found that when protein tyrosine kinase receptors (RPTK) activate oncogenes, they can create epithelial tumors and cause deadly cancers like ESCC. The RPTK family has one group, MET, that has only two receptors, MET and RON, present in the human body. MET s ligand is the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and RON's ligand is the macrophage-stimulating protein (MSP-1). Both HGF and MSP-1 have been shown to activate their receptors and are implicated in certain processes. Since radiation damages cells throughout the biological system, researchers are investigating whether or not HGF and MSP-1 protects or kills certain normal and cancerous cells by being part of cell recovery processes. One research group recently reviewed that the HGF-MET pathway has an important role in the embryonic development in the liver, migration of myogenic precursor cells, regulation of epithelial morphogenesis and growth, and regeneration and protection in tissues. In addition, since the RON receptor is more commonly expressed in cells of epithelial origin, and when activated is part of epithelial cell matrix invasion, dissociation, and migration processes, scientists conclude that RON might be one of the factors causing epithelial cancer initiation in the biological system. In order to examine HGF and MSP-1 s effect on cancer initiation and progression we used two immortalized esophageal epithelial cell lines. One is a normal human cell line (EPC2-hTERT), while the other had a p53 mutation at the 175th amino acid position (EPC2-hTERT-p53(sup R175H)). For this investigation, we used 0(control), 2, and 4 Gray doses of gamma (Cs137) radiation and selected various concentrations from 0-100 ng/mL of HGF and MSP-1 in our assays. Since the HGF and MSP-1 pathways have proliferative roles in epithelial cells, we conducted the MTT proliferation assay to see if either drug enhances or inhibits cell proliferation over time. Also, a MTT cytotoxicity assay was necessary to observe whether the drugs are protecting the cells from radiation and if a trend is occurring depending upon the amount of dose added. In addition, a wound healing assay was done since both drugs have been to known to promote cell motility. Since cell damage occurs when radiation is added, apoptosis and micronuclei assays are vital to see if HGF and MSP-1 increase or decrease cell death and damage in normal and pre-cancerous cells and by how much based on the radiation dosage. Overall, we used the MTT, wound healing, apoptosis and micronuclei assays to investigate the effects ofHGF and MSP-1 on irradiated esophageal epithelial cells.

Multiplex serology for impact evaluation of bed net distribution on burden of lymphatic filariasis and four species of human malaria in northern Mozambique

PubMed Central

Candrinho, Baltazar; Chambe, Geraldo; Muchanga, João; Muguande, Olinda; Matsinhe, Graça; Mathe, Guidion; Rogier, Eric; Doyle, Timothy; Zulliger, Rose; Colborn, James; Saifodine, Abu; Lammie, Patrick; Priest, Jeffrey W.

2018-01-01

Background Universal coverage with long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) is a primary control strategy against Plasmodium falciparum malaria. However, its impact on the three other main species of human malaria and lymphatic filariasis (LF), which share the same vectors in many co-endemic areas, is not as well characterized. The recent development of multiplex antibody detection provides the opportunity for simultaneous evaluation of the impact of control measures on the burden of multiple diseases. Methodology/Principal findings Two cross-sectional household surveys at baseline and one year after a LLIN distribution campaign were implemented in Mecubúri and Nacala-a-Velha Districts in Nampula Province, Mozambique. Both districts were known to be endemic for LF; both received mass drug administration (MDA) with antifilarial drugs during the evaluation period. Access to and use of LLINs was recorded, and household members were tested with P. falciparum rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs). Dried blood spots were collected and analyzed for presence of antibodies to three P. falciparum antigens, P. vivax MSP-119, P. ovale MSP-119, P. malariae MSP-119, and three LF antigens. Seroconversion rates were calculated and the association between LLIN use and post-campaign seropositivity was estimated using multivariate regression. The campaign covered 68% (95% CI: 58–77) of the population in Nacala-a-Velha and 46% (37–56) in Mecubúri. There was no statistically significant change in P. falciparum RDT positivity between the two surveys. Population seropositivity at baseline ranged from 31–81% for the P. falciparum antigens, 3–4% for P. vivax MSP-119, 41–43% for P. ovale MSP-119, 46–56% for P. malariae MSP-119, and 37–76% for the LF antigens. The seroconversion rate to the LF Bm33 antigen decreased significantly in both districts. The seroconversion rate to P. malariae MSP-119 and the LF Wb123 and Bm14 antigens each decreased significantly in one of the two districts. Community LLIN use was associated with a decreased risk of P. falciparum RDT positivity, P. falciparum LSA-1 seropositivity, and P. malariae MSP-119 seropositivity, but not LF antigen seropositivity. Conclusions/Significance The study area noted significant declines in LF seropositivity, but these were not associated with LLIN use. The MDA could have masked any impact of the LLINs on population LF seropositivity. The LLIN campaign did not reach adequately high coverage to decrease P. falciparum RDT positivity, the most common measure of P. falciparum burden. However, the significant decreases in the seroconversion rate to the P. malariae antigen, coupled with an association between community LLIN use and individual-level decreases in seropositivity to P. falciparum and P. malariae antigens show evidence of impact of the LLIN campaign and highlight the utility of using multiantigenic serological approaches for measuring intervention impact. PMID:29444078

Multiplex serology for impact evaluation of bed net distribution on burden of lymphatic filariasis and four species of human malaria in northern Mozambique.

PubMed

Plucinski, Mateusz M; Candrinho, Baltazar; Chambe, Geraldo; Muchanga, João; Muguande, Olinda; Matsinhe, Graça; Mathe, Guidion; Rogier, Eric; Doyle, Timothy; Zulliger, Rose; Colborn, James; Saifodine, Abu; Lammie, Patrick; Priest, Jeffrey W

2018-02-01

Universal coverage with long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) is a primary control strategy against Plasmodium falciparum malaria. However, its impact on the three other main species of human malaria and lymphatic filariasis (LF), which share the same vectors in many co-endemic areas, is not as well characterized. The recent development of multiplex antibody detection provides the opportunity for simultaneous evaluation of the impact of control measures on the burden of multiple diseases. Two cross-sectional household surveys at baseline and one year after a LLIN distribution campaign were implemented in Mecubúri and Nacala-a-Velha Districts in Nampula Province, Mozambique. Both districts were known to be endemic for LF; both received mass drug administration (MDA) with antifilarial drugs during the evaluation period. Access to and use of LLINs was recorded, and household members were tested with P. falciparum rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs). Dried blood spots were collected and analyzed for presence of antibodies to three P. falciparum antigens, P. vivax MSP-119, P. ovale MSP-119, P. malariae MSP-119, and three LF antigens. Seroconversion rates were calculated and the association between LLIN use and post-campaign seropositivity was estimated using multivariate regression. The campaign covered 68% (95% CI: 58-77) of the population in Nacala-a-Velha and 46% (37-56) in Mecubúri. There was no statistically significant change in P. falciparum RDT positivity between the two surveys. Population seropositivity at baseline ranged from 31-81% for the P. falciparum antigens, 3-4% for P. vivax MSP-119, 41-43% for P. ovale MSP-119, 46-56% for P. malariae MSP-119, and 37-76% for the LF antigens. The seroconversion rate to the LF Bm33 antigen decreased significantly in both districts. The seroconversion rate to P. malariae MSP-119 and the LF Wb123 and Bm14 antigens each decreased significantly in one of the two districts. Community LLIN use was associated with a decreased risk of P. falciparum RDT positivity, P. falciparum LSA-1 seropositivity, and P. malariae MSP-119 seropositivity, but not LF antigen seropositivity. The study area noted significant declines in LF seropositivity, but these were not associated with LLIN use. The MDA could have masked any impact of the LLINs on population LF seropositivity. The LLIN campaign did not reach adequately high coverage to decrease P. falciparum RDT positivity, the most common measure of P. falciparum burden. However, the significant decreases in the seroconversion rate to the P. malariae antigen, coupled with an association between community LLIN use and individual-level decreases in seropositivity to P. falciparum and P. malariae antigens show evidence of impact of the LLIN campaign and highlight the utility of using multiantigenic serological approaches for measuring intervention impact.

Magma chamber history related to the shield building stage of Piton des Neiges volcano, La Réunion Island

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berthod, Carole; Michon, Laurent; Famin, Vincent; Bascou, Jérôme; Bachelery, Patrick

2016-04-01

Piton des Neiges volcano (La Réunion hotspot) experienced a long-lasting shield building stage before entering its degenerative stage 0.4 my ago. The deep edifice incision due to the intense tropical erosion allowed the description for several decades of a layered gabbroic complex interpreted as a piece of magma chamber, which has been tectonically displaced (Chevallier & Vatin-Perignon, 1982; Upton & Wadsworth, 1972). Here, we combine field investigations, petrographic, mineralogical, geochemical and anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) studies to constrain the spatial distribution of the plutonic complex, to identify the physical and chemical processes and to integrate this complex in the evolution of Piton des Neiges (PdN). Field investigations allowed us to discover three additional massifs of gabbro and peridotite along the Mât River. The four massifs are overlaid by a pile of basic sills and a breccia interpreted as a debris avalanche deposit. Albeit spatially disconnected, the massifs show a relatively constant dip of the magnetic foliation toward the current summit of the volcano (i.e. toward the SSE). The two massifs cropping in the upper Mât River are exclusively composed of massive dunite and wherlite units with a cumulate texture and no visible dynamic structures. The two massifs located in the lower Mât River are made of olivine-gabbro, ferrogabbro and gabbro showing numerous flow structures and synmagmatic faults that indicates instabilities which trend NNW-SSE. Minerals (olivine, clinopyroxene and oxide) present primitive compositions in the two upper massifs and slightly differentiated ones in the lower massif. Given the consistency of our dataset, we propose that the four massifs correspond to outcrops of a unique chemically stratified magma chamber, whose center would have been located about 4 km North of the current summit of PdN. The existence of an initial PdN, North of the current edifice, is supported by morphological reconstruction, gravimetric data (Gailler & Lénat, 2012) and submarine sedimentation (Lebas, 2012). It would have been built prior to 2 Ma and subsequently experienced a large north-directed destabilization. The PdN volcano later reconstructed south of the initial magmatic centre. Chevallier, L., & Vatin-Perignon, N. (1982). Volcano-structural evolution of Piton des Neiges, Reunion Island, Indian Ocean. Bulletin of Volcanology, 45(4), 285-298. Gailler, L.-S., & Lénat, J.-F. (2012). Internal architecture of La Réunion (Indian Ocean) inferred from geophysical data. Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research, 221-222(C), 83-98. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jvolgeores.2012.01.015 Lebas, E. (2012). Processus de démantèlement des édifices volcaniques au cours de leur évolution : Application à La Réunion et Montserrat et comparaison avec d'autres édifices. Unpublished PhD Thesis, 1-379. Upton, B. G. J., & Wadsworth, W. (1972). Peridotitic and gabbroic rocks associated with the shield-forming lavas of Réunion. Contributions to Mineralogy and Petrology, 35, 139-158.

Modelisation de photodetecteurs a base de matrices de diodes avalanche monophotoniques pour tomographie d'emission par positrons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Corbeil Therrien, Audrey

La tomographie d'emission par positrons (TEP) est un outil precieux en recherche preclinique et pour le diagnostic medical. Cette technique permet d'obtenir une image quantitative de fonctions metaboliques specifiques par la detection de photons d'annihilation. La detection des ces photons se fait a l'aide de deux composantes. D'abord, un scintillateur convertit l'energie du photon 511 keV en photons du spectre visible. Ensuite, un photodetecteur convertit l'energie lumineuse en signal electrique. Recemment, les photodiodes avalanche monophotoniques (PAMP) disposees en matrice suscitent beaucoup d'interet pour la TEP. Ces matrices forment des detecteurs sensibles, robustes, compacts et avec une resolution en temps hors pair. Ces qualites en font un photodetecteur prometteur pour la TEP, mais il faut optimiser les parametres de la matrice et de l'electronique de lecture afin d'atteindre les performances optimales pour la TEP. L'optimisation de la matrice devient rapidement une operation difficile, car les differents parametres interagissent de maniere complexe avec les processus d'avalanche et de generation de bruit. Enfin, l'electronique de lecture pour les matrices de PAMP demeure encore rudimentaire et il serait profitable d'analyser differentes strategies de lecture. Pour repondre a cette question, la solution la plus economique est d'utiliser un simulateur pour converger vers la configuration donnant les meilleures performances. Les travaux de ce memoire presentent le developpement d'un tel simulateur. Celui-ci modelise le comportement d'une matrice de PAMP en se basant sur les equations de physique des semiconducteurs et des modeles probabilistes. Il inclut les trois principales sources de bruit, soit le bruit thermique, les declenchements intempestifs correles et la diaphonie optique. Le simulateur permet aussi de tester et de comparer de nouvelles approches pour l'electronique de lecture plus adaptees a ce type de detecteur. Au final, le simulateur vise a quantifier l'impact des parametres du photodetecteur sur la resolution en energie et la resolution en temps et ainsi optimiser les performances de la matrice de PAMP. Par exemple, l'augmentation du ratio de surface active ameliore les performances, mais seulement jusqu'a un certain point. D'autres phenomenes lies a la surface active, comme le bruit thermique, provoquent une degradation du resultat. Le simulateur nous permet de trouver un compromis entre ces deux extremes. Les simulations avec les parametres initiaux demontrent une efficacite de detection de 16,7 %, une resolution en energie de 14,2 % LMH et une resolution en temps de 0.478 ns LMH. Enfin, le simulateur propose, bien qu'il vise une application en TEP, peut etre adapte pour d'autres applications en modifiant la source de photons et en adaptant les objectifs de performances. Mots-cles : Photodetecteurs, photodiodes avalanche monophotoniques, semiconducteurs, tomographie d'emission par positrons, simulations, modelisation, detection monophotonique, scintillateurs, circuit d'etouffement, SPAD, SiPM, Photodiodes avalanche operees en mode Geiger

Experimental reduction of intromittent organ length reduces male reproductive success in a bug

PubMed Central

Dougherty, Liam R.; Rahman, Imran A.; Burdfield-Steel, Emily R.; Greenway, E. V. (Ginny); Shuker, David M.

2015-01-01

It is now clear in many species that male and female genital evolution has been shaped by sexual selection. However, it has historically been difficult to confirm correlations between morphology and fitness, as genital traits are complex and manipulation tends to impair function significantly. In this study, we investigate the functional morphology of the elongate male intromittent organ (or processus) of the seed bug Lygaeus simulans, in two ways. We first use micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and flash-freezing to reconstruct in high resolution the interaction between the male intromittent organ and the female internal reproductive anatomy during mating. We successfully trace the path of the male processus inside the female reproductive tract. We then confirm that male processus length influences sperm transfer by experimental ablation and show that males with shortened processi have significantly reduced post-copulatory reproductive success. Importantly, male insemination function is not affected by this manipulation per se. We thus present rare, direct experimental evidence that an internal genital trait functions to increase reproductive success and show that, with appropriate staining, micro-CT is an excellent tool for investigating the functional morphology of insect genitalia during copulation. PMID:25972470

The etiology of indirect inguinal hernia in adults: congenital or acquired?

PubMed

Jiang, Z P; Yang, B; Wen, L Q; Zhang, Y C; Lai, D M; Li, Y R; Chen, S

2015-10-01

During hernioplasty focal thickened tissue containing smooth muscle is found at the neck of the hernia sac in most patients with indirect inguinal hernia. These thickenings may be related to the processus vaginalis and reveal the etiology of indirect inguinal hernia. The study included 50 male adults with indirect inguinal hernia and 50 male adults with direct inguinal hernia, all of them were initial cases. Hernioplasty and excision of the hernia sac were performed, meanwhile anatomical features of the hernia sac and the spermatic cord were recorded, then followed by histological investigation of the hernia sacs. Focal thickenings were observed at the neck of the hernia sac in 88 % of adults with indirect inguinal hernia. Dense adhesion between the hernia sac and the spermatic cord was found where the thickening located. Histological examination identified smooth muscle cells in 57 % of the thickened tissues. No similar findings were observed in patients with direct inguinal hernia. The focal thickening which contains smooth muscle tissue may be remnant of the processus vaginalis after its obliteration. In other word, the presence of the thickening means that fusion of the processus vaginalis has previously taken place. Thus, most indirect inguinal hernias in adults may represent acquired diseases.

Variation in pre- and post-copulatory sexual selection on male genital size in two species of lygaeid bug.

PubMed

Dougherty, Liam R; Shuker, David M

Sexual selection has been shown to be the driving force behind the evolution of the sometimes extreme and elaborate genitalia of many species. Sexual selection may arise before and/or after mating, or vary according to other factors such as the social environment. However, bouts of selection are typically considered in isolation. We measured the strength and pattern of selection acting on the length of the male intromittent organ (or processus) in two closely related species of lygaeid seed bug: Lygaeus equestris and Lygaeus simulans . In both species, we measured both pre- and post-copulatory selection. For L. equestris , we also varied the experimental choice design used in mating trials. We found contrasting pre- and post-copulatory selection on processus length in L. equestris . Furthermore, significant pre-copulatory selection was only seen in mating trials in which two males were present. This selection likely arises indirectly due to selection on a correlated trait, as the processus does not interact with the female prior to copulation. In contrast, we were unable to detect significant pre- or post-copulatory selection on processus length in L. simulans . However, a formal meta-analysis of previous estimates of post-copulatory selection on processus length in L. simulans suggests that there is significant stabilising selection across studies, but the strength of selection varies between experiments. Our results emphasise that the strength and direction of sexual selection on genital traits may be multifaceted and can vary across studies, social contexts and different stages of reproduction. Animal genitalia vary greatly in size and complexity across species, and selection acting on genital size and shape can be complex. In this study, we show that the length of the penis in two species of seed bug is subject to complex patterns of selection, varying depending on the social context and whether selection is measured before or after mating. In one of the species, we show unexpectedly that penis length is correlated with male mating success, despite the fact that the penis does not interact with the female prior to mating. Our results highlight the fact that genitalia may be subject to both direct and indirect selection at different stages of mating and that to fully understand the evolution of such traits we should combine estimates of selection arising from these multiple episodes.

Anaplasma ovis genetic diversity detected by major surface protein 1a and its prevalence in small ruminants.

PubMed

Aktas, Munir; Özübek, Sezayi

2018-04-01

Anaplasma ovis is a widely distributed tick-borne rickettsial pathogen of sheep, goats, and wild ruminants. The aims of this study were to assess the prevalence, associations of Anaplasma ovis in sheep and goats, as well as its genetic diversity based on analysis of the msp1α gene. A total of 416 DNA samples from sheep (n = 236) and goats (n = 180) from four provinces in southeastern Turkey were analyzed by PCR. The overall A. ovis prevalence was 18% (CI 14.4-22.1). The infection rates of A. ovis varied from 15.9% to 21.8% in sampled provinces, and they were not significantly different. There was no difference between Anaplasma ovis infection in sheep (20.3%, CI 15.4-26.0) and goats (15.0%, CI 10.1-21.1) or in infection rate of animals <1 year (21.8%, CI 14.9-30.1) compared to >1 year (16.4%, CI 12.4-21.2). A significant association between A. ovis infection and the presence of Rhipicephalus bursa and Rhipicephalus turanicus was observed (P < 0.05). Prevalence of A. ovis-positive animals was higher in animals showing co-infection with Babesia and Theileria compared to those not co-infected (P < 0.05). The Msp1a amino acid repeats were identified and used for the characterization of A. ovis strains. Forty partial msp1a gene sequences containing the repeated sequences of A. ovis were obtained, and 14 previously undescribed tandem repeats with 33 to 43 amino acids were found. Thirteen A. ovis genotypes were identified based on the structure of Msp1a tandem repeats. The majority of A. ovis isolates exhibited one Msp1a tandem repeat, with a maximum of three. This study revealed the Msp1a could be used as a marker for genotyping A. ovis, and high genetic diversity of A. ovis were found in small ruminants in Turkey. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Merozoite surface protein-1 genetic diversity in Plasmodium malariae and Plasmodium brasilianum from Brazil.

PubMed

Guimarães, Lilian O; Wunderlich, Gerhard; Alves, João M P; Bueno, Marina G; Röhe, Fabio; Catão-Dias, José L; Neves, Amanda; Malafronte, Rosely S; Curado, Izilda; Domingues, Wilson; Kirchgatter, Karin

2015-11-16

The merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1) gene encodes the major surface antigen of invasive forms of the Plasmodium erythrocytic stages and is considered a candidate vaccine antigen against malaria. Due to its polymorphisms, MSP1 is also useful for strain discrimination and consists of a good genetic marker. Sequence diversity in MSP1 has been analyzed in field isolates of three human parasites: P. falciparum, P. vivax, and P. ovale. However, the extent of variation in another human parasite, P. malariae, remains unknown. This parasite shows widespread, uneven distribution in tropical and subtropical regions throughout South America, Asia, and Africa. Interestingly, it is genetically indistinguishable from P. brasilianum, a parasite known to infect New World monkeys in Central and South America. Specific fragments (1 to 5) covering 60 % of the MSP1 gene (mainly the putatively polymorphic regions), were amplified by PCR in isolates of P. malariae and P. brasilianum from different geographic origin and hosts. Sequencing of the PCR-amplified products or cloned PCR fragments was performed and the sequences were used to construct a phylogenetic tree by the maximum likelihood method. Data were computed to give insights into the evolutionary and phylogenetic relationships of these parasites. Except for fragment 4, sequences from all other fragments consisted of unpublished sequences. The most polymorphic gene region was fragment 2, and in samples where this region lacks polymorphism, all other regions are also identical. The low variability of the P. malariae msp1 sequences of these isolates and the identification of the same haplotype in those collected many years apart at different locations is compatible with a low transmission rate. We also found greater diversity among P. brasilianum isolates compared with P. malariae ones. Lastly, the sequences were segregated according to their geographic origins and hosts, showing a strong genetic and geographic structure. Our data show that there is a low level of sequence diversity and a possible absence of allelic dimorphism of MSP1 in these parasites as opposed to other Plasmodium species. P. brasilianum strains apparently show greater divergence in comparison to P. malariae, thus P. malariae could derive from P. brasilianum, as it has been proposed.

Serum antibody response to Moraxella catarrhalis proteins OMP CD, OppA, Msp22, Hag, and PilA2 after nasopharyngeal colonization and acute otitis media in children.

PubMed

Ren, Dabin; Almudevar, Anthony L; Murphy, Timothy F; Lafontaine, Eric R; Campagnari, Anthony A; Luke-Marshall, Nicole; Casey, Janet R; Pichichero, Michael E

2015-10-26

There is no licensed vaccine for Moraxella catarrhalis (Mcat), which is a prominent bacterium causing acute otitis media (AOM) in children and lower respiratory tract infections in adults. Nasopharyngeal (NP) colonization caused by respiratory bacteria results in natural immunization of the host. To identify Mcat antigens as vaccine candidates, we evaluated the development of naturally induced antibodies to 5 Mcat surface proteins in children 6-30 months of age during Mcat NP colonization and AOM. Human serum IgG against the recombinant Mcat proteins, outer membrane protein (OMP) CD, oligopeptide permease (Opp)A, hemagglutinin (Hag), Moraxella surface protein (Msp)22, and PilA clade 2 (PilA2) was quantitated by using an ELISA assay. There were 223 Mcat NP colonization episodes documented in 111 (60%) of 184 children in the study. Thirty five Mcat AOM episodes occurred in 30 (16%) of 184 children. All 5 Mcat candidate vaccine antigens evaluated stimulated a significant rise in serum IgG levles over time from 6 to 36 months of age (P<0.001), with a rank order as follows: Msp22=OppA>OMP CD=Hag=PilA2. Children with no detectable Mcat NP colonization showed a higher serum IgG level against OppA, Hag, and Msp22 compared to those with Mcat NP colonization (P<0.05). Individual data showed that some children responded to AOM with an antibody increase to one or more of the studied Mcat proteins but some children failed to respond. Serum antibody to Mcat candidate vaccine proteins OMP CD, OppA, Msp22, Hag, and PilA2 increased with age in naturally immunized children age 6-30 months following Mcat NP colonization and AOM. High antibody levels against OppA, Msp22, and Hag correlated with reduced carriage. The results support further investigation of these vaccine candidates in protecting against Mcat colonization and infection. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Serum antibody response to Moraxella catarrhalis proteins OMP CD, OppA, Msp22, Hag, and PilA2 after nasopharyngeal colonization and acute otitis media in children

PubMed Central

Ren, Dabin; Almudevar, Anthony L.; Murphy, Timothy F.; Lafontaine, Eric R.; Campagnari, Anthony A.; Luke-Marshall, Nicole; Casey, Janet R.; Pichichero, Michael E.

2015-01-01

Background There is no licensed vaccine for Moraxella catarrhalis (Mcat), which is a prominent bacterium causing acute otitis media (AOM) in children and lower respiratory tract infections in adults. Nasopharyngeal (NP) colonization caused by respiratory bacteria results in natural immunization of the host. To identify Mcat antigens as vaccine candidates, we evaluated the development of naturally induced antibodies to 5 Mcat surface proteins in children 6–30 months of age during Mcat NP colonization and AOM. Methods Human serum IgG against the recombinant Mcat proteins, outer membrane protein (OMP) CD, oligopeptide permease (Opp)A, hemagglutinin (Hag), Moraxella surface protein (Msp)22, and PilA clade 2 (PilA2) was quantitated by using an ELISA assay. Results There were 223 Mcat NP colonization episodes documented in 111 (60%) of 184 children in the study. Thirty five Mcat AOM episodes occurred in 30 (16%) of 184 children. All 5 Mcat candidate vaccine antigens evaluated stimulated a significant rise in serum IgG levles over time from 6 to 36 months of age (P < 0.001), with a rank order as follows: Msp22 = OppA > OMP CD = Hag = PilA2. Children with no detectable Mcat NP colonization showed a higher serum IgG level against OppA, Hag, and Msp22 compared to those with Mcat NP colonization (P < 0.05). Individual data showed that some children responded to AOM with an antibody increase to one or more of the studied Mcat proteins but some children failed to respond. Conclusions Serum antibody to Mcat candidate vaccine proteins OMP CD, OppA, Msp22, Hag, and PilA2 increased with age in naturally immunized children age 6–30 months following Mcat NP colonization and AOM. High antibody levels against OppA, Msp22, and Hag correlated with reduced carriage. The results support further investigation of these vaccine candidates in protecting against Mcat colonization and infection. PMID:26392013

Descriptive quantitative analysis of hallux abductovalgus transverse plane radiographic parameters.

PubMed

Meyr, Andrew J; Myers, Adam; Pontious, Jane

2014-01-01

Although the transverse plane radiographic parameters of the first intermetatarsal angle (IMA), hallux abductus angle (HAA), and the metatarsal-sesamoid position (MSP) form the basis of preoperative procedure selection and postoperative surgical evaluation of the hallux abductovalgus deformity, the so-called normal values of these measurements have not been well established. The objectives of the present study were to (1) evaluate the descriptive statistics of the first IMA, HAA, and MSP from a large patient population and (2) to determine an objective basis for defining "normal" versus "abnormal" measurements. Anteroposterior foot radiographs from 373 consecutive patients without a history of previous foot and ankle surgery and/or trauma were evaluated for the measurements of the first IMA, HAA, and MSP. The results revealed a mean measurement of 9.93°, 17.59°, and position 3.63 for the first IMA, HAA, and MSP, respectively. An advanced descriptive analysis demonstrated data characteristics of both parametric and nonparametric distributions. Furthermore, clear differentiations in deformity progression were appreciated when the variables were graphically depicted against each other. This could represent a quantitative basis for defining "normal" versus "abnormal" values. From the results of the present study, we have concluded that these radiographic parameters can be more conservatively reported and analyzed using nonparametric descriptive and comparative statistics within medical studies and that the combination of a first IMA, HAA, and MSP at or greater than approximately 10°, 18°, and position 4, respectively, appears to be an objective "tipping point" in terms of deformity progression and might represent an upper limit of acceptable in terms of surgical deformity correction. Copyright © 2014 American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Copy number variation of lipocalin family genes for male-specific proteins in tilapia and its association with gender.

PubMed

Shirak, A; Golik, M; Lee, B-Y; Howe, A E; Kocher, T D; Hulata, G; Ron, M; Seroussi, E

2008-11-01

Lipocalins are involved in the binding of small molecules like sex steroids. We show here that the previously reported tilapia male-specific protein (MSP) is a lipocalin encoded by a variety of paralogous and homologous genes in different tilapia species. Exon-intron boundaries of MSP genes were typical of the six-exon genomic structure of lipocalins, and the transcripts were capable of encoding 200 amino-acid polypeptides that consisted of a putative signal peptide and a lipocalin domain. Cysteine residues are conserved in positions analogous to those forming the three disulfide bonds characteristic of the ligand pocket. The calculated molecular mass of the secreted MSP (20.4 kDa) was less than half of that observed, suggesting that it is highly glycosylated like its homologue tributyltin-binding protein. Analysis of sequence variations revealed three types of paralogs MSPA, MSPB and MSPC. Expression of both MSPA and MSPB was detected in testis. In haploid Oreochromis niloticus embryos, each of these types consisted of two closely related paralogs, and asymmetry between MSP copy numbers on the maternal (six copies) and the paternal (three copies) chromosomes was observed. Using this polymorphism we mapped MSPA and MSPC to linkage group 12 of an F(2) mapping family derived from a cross between O. niloticus and Oreochromis aureus. Females with high MSP copy number were more frequent by more than twofold than males. Gender-MSPC combinations showed significant deviation from expected Mendelian segregation (P=0.009) suggesting elimination of males with MSPC copies. We discuss different hypotheses to explain this elimination, including possibility for allelic conflict resulted by the hybridization.

Psychosocial Factors and Musculoskeletal Pain Among Rural Hand-woven Carpet Weavers in Iran

PubMed Central

Chaman, Reza; Aliyari, Roqayeh; Sadeghian, Farideh; Vatani Shoaa, Javad; Masoudi, Mahmood; Zahedi, Shiva; Bakhshi, Mohammad A.

2015-01-01

Background Musculoskeletal pain (MSP) is a common and disabling problem among carpet weavers and is linked to physical and psychosocial factors of work. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of MSP, its psychosocial risk factors, and association of pain in each pair of anatomical sites among carpet weavers. Methods A cross-sectional study was performed among 546 hand-woven carpet weavers in rural small-scale workshops of Iran. Data were collected by using parts of a standardized CUPID (Cultural and Psychosocial Influences on Disability) questionnaire focused on MSP in 10 body sites, including the low-back, neck, both right and left shoulders, elbows, wrists/hands, individual, physical and psychosocial risk factors. Statistical analysis was performed applying logistic regression models. Results Prevalence of MSP in at least one body site was 51.7% over the past month. The most common sites were low back and right shoulder pain 27.4% and 20.1%, respectively. A significant difference was found between the mean number of painful anatomical sites and the level of education, age, physical loading at work, time pressure, lack of support, and job dissatisfaction. In pairwise comparisons, strongest association was found between pain in each bilateral anatomical site (odds ratio = 11.6–35.3; p < 0.001). Conclusion In home-based workshops of carpet weaving, psychosocial factors and physical loading were associated with MSP. This finding is consistent with studies conducted among other jobs. Considering the preventive programs, the same amount of attention should be paid to psychosocial risk factors and physical loading. Also, further longitudinal studies are needed to investigate the relationship of psychological factors. PMID:26106511

Individual and work-related risk factors for musculoskeletal pain: a cross-sectional study among Estonian computer users.

PubMed

Oha, Kristel; Animägi, Liina; Pääsuke, Mati; Coggon, David; Merisalu, Eda

2014-05-28

Occupational use of computers has increased rapidly over recent decades, and has been linked with various musculoskeletal disorders, which are now the most commonly diagnosed occupational diseases in Estonia. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain (MSP) by anatomical region during the past 12 months and to investigate its association with personal characteristics and work-related risk factors among Estonian office workers using computers. In a cross-sectional survey, the questionnaires were sent to the 415 computer users. Data were collected by self-administered questionnaire from 202 computer users at two universities in Estonia. The questionnaire asked about MSP at different anatomical sites, and potential individual and work related risk factors. Associations with risk factors were assessed by logistic regression. Most respondents (77%) reported MSP in at least one anatomical region during the past 12 months. Most prevalent was pain in the neck (51%), followed by low back pain (42%), wrist/hand pain (35%) and shoulder pain (30%). Older age, right-handedness, not currently smoking, emotional exhaustion, belief that musculoskeletal problems are commonly caused by work, and low job security were the statistically significant risk factors for MSP in different anatomical sites. A high prevalence of MSP in the neck, low back, wrist/arm and shoulder was observed among Estonian computer users. Psychosocial risk factors were broadly consistent with those reported from elsewhere. While computer users should be aware of ergonomic techniques that can make their work easier and more comfortable, presenting computer use as a serious health hazard may modify health beliefs in a way that is unhelpful.

Marine hydrogeology: recent accomplishments and future opportunities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fisher, A. T.

2005-03-01

Marine hydrogeology is a broad-ranging scientific discipline involving the exploration of fluid-rock interactions below the seafloor. Studies have been conducted at seafloor spreading centers, mid-plate locations, and in plate- and continental-margin environments. Although many seafloor locations are remote, there are aspects of marine systems that make them uniquely suited for hydrologic analysis. Newly developed tools and techniques, and the establishment of several multidisciplinary programs for oceanographic exploration, have helped to push marine hydrogeology forward over the last several decades. Most marine hydrogeologic work has focused on measurement or estimation of hydrogeologic properties within the shallow subsurface, but additional work has emphasized measurements of local and global fluxes, fluid source and sink terms, and quantitative links between hydrogeologic, chemical, tectonic, biological, and geophysical processes. In addition to summarizing selected results from a small number of case studies, this paper includes a description of several new experiments and programs that will provide outstanding opportunities to address fundamental hydrogeologic questions within the seafloor during the next 20-30 years. L'hydrogéologie marine est une large discipline scientifique impliquant l' exploration des interactions entre les fluides et les roches sous les fonds marins. Des études ont été menées dans les différents environnements sous-marins (zone abyssale, plaque océanique, marges continentales). Bien que de nombreux fonds marins soient connus, il existe des aspects des systèmes marins qui les rendent inadaptés à l'analyse hydrologique. De nouveaux outils et techniques, et la mise en oeuvre de nombreux programmes multidisciplinaires d'exploration océanographique, ont aidé à pousser en avant l'hydrogéologie marine ces dix dernières années. La plus part des études hydrogéologiques se sont concentrées jusqu'à présent sur la mesure ou l'estimation des propriétés à la sub-surface des fonds marins, et des travaux complémentaires ont mis en valeur les mesures de flux, local ou global, de termes « sources » et « pertes », et des liens quantitatifs entre l'hydrogéologie, la chimie, la tectonique, la biologie, et les processus géophysiques. Cet article vise à résumer des résultats sélectionnés parmi un petit nombre d'études, et à décrire plusieurs nouvelles expériences et programmes, qui sont autant d'opportunités pour répondre aux questions fondamentales relatives aux fonds marins, posées ces dernières 20-30 années. La hidrogeología marina es una disciplina científica de amplios alcances que involucra la exploración de interacciones fluido-roca por debajo del fondo del mar. Se han llevado a cabo estudios en centros de expansión del fondo del mar, lugares en medio de una placa, y en ambientes de placa y margen continental. Aunque muchos sitios en el fondo del mar son remotos, existen aspectos de estos sistemas marinos que los hacen particularmente adaptables para análisis hidrológico. Nuevas técnicas y herramientas desarrolladas, y el establecimiento de varios programas multidisciplinarios para exploración oceanográfica, han ayudado a impulsar la hidrogeología marina hacia delante durante las ultimas décadas. La mayor parte del trabajo hidrogeológico marino se ha enfocado en la medición o estimación de propiedades hidrogeológicas dentro del subsuelo superficial, pero trabajo adicionalha enfatizado mediciones de flujos globales y locales, términos de fuente y sumidero de fluidos, y vínculos cuantitativos entre procesos hidrogeológicos, químicos, tectónicos, biológicos y geofísicos. Además de resumir resultados seleccionados de un número pequeño de estudios de caso, este artículo incluye una descripción de varios programas y experimentos nuevos que aportarán oportunidades excepcionales para dirigir preguntas hidrogeológicas fundamentales dentro del fondo oceánico durante los siguientes 20-30 años.

In situ and laboratory investigations of fluid flow through an argillaceous formation at different scales of space and time, Tournemire tunnel, southern France

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boisson, Jean-Yves; Bertrand, Lucien; Heitz, Jean-François; Golvan, Yann Moreau-Le

2001-01-01

In the context of a research and development program on waste disposal, an experimental site (Tournemire tunnel, Aveyron, France) was selected by the French Institute for Nuclear Protection and Safety (IPSN) in order to undertake studies on potential fluid flow at different scales of space and time within a 250-m-thick argillaceous formation. The argillite has a low natural water content ( 3-5%) and very low radii access porosity. Diffusion (tritiated water) coefficients (1×10-12 to 2×10-11 m2/s) and hydraulic conductivities derived from different types of laboratory tests (10-14 to 10-13 m/s) are characteristics of a very low-permeable rock. In situ hydraulic tests (including long-term hydraulic-head measurements) were used to obtain values for hydraulic head and hydraulic conductivity at a scale of 1-10 m (10-13 to 10-11 m/s). Despite uncertainties on these data (due to a scale factor, presence of fissures, and possible artefacts due to hydro-chemo-mechanical coupling), it is expected that fluid flow is essentially governed by diffusion processes. Identification of possible natural flows at larger scales of time and space was investigated using natural isotopic tracers from interstitial fluids. Modelling, based on the deuterium profile along the clay formation and assuming pure diffusion processes, provides estimations of possible flow times. However, lack of knowledge concerning the past geological evolution of the site and the possible role of a fracture network do not permit reduction of uncertainties on these estimations at this stage. Résumé. Dans le cadre de son programme de recherche et développement sur les stockages de déchets, un site expérimental (tunnel de Tournemire, Aveyron, France) a été sélectionné par l'Institut de Protection et Sûreté Nucléaire (IPSN) pour conduire des études sur les possibilités de transferts de fluides à différentes échelles de temps et d'espace au sein d'une formation argileuse de 250 m d'épaisseur. L'argilite est caractérisée par de faibles teneurs en eau ( 3-5%) et de très petits rayons d'accès de pores. Les coefficients de diffusion à l'eau tritiée (1×10-12 à 2×10-11 m2/s) et les conductivités hydrauliques déduites de différents types d'essais au laboratoire (10-13 à 10-14 m/s) sont caractéristiques d'une roche très imperméable. Des tests hydrauliques in situ (y compris une mesure de charge à long terme) ont fourni des valeurs approchées des charges et un ordre de grandeur des perméabilités à l'échelle de 1-10 m (10-11 à 10-13 m/s). En dépit des incertitudes sur ces données (facteur d'échelle, présence de fissures, et artéfacts possibles dus aux couplages hydro-chimique et mécanique) on suppose que les transferts sont essentiellement gouvernés par des processus diffusifs. La reconnaissance de transferts naturels possible à une plus grande échelle de temps et d'espace a été étudiée à partir des traceurs isotopiques naturels des fluides interstitiels. Une modélisation, basée sur un profil en deutérium le long de la colonne argileuse et postulant un processus diffusif a permis de proposer une estimation de temps de transfert possible, mais le manque de connaissances précises au stade actuel de l'étude concernant l'évolution géologique passée du site et le rôle possible de la fracturation ne permet pas de réduire les incertitudes constatées sur ces estimations. Resumen. Dentro del contexto de un programa de investigación y desarrollo para la eliminación de residuos, el Instituto Francés de Protección Nuclear y Seguridad seleccionó un emplazamiento experimental en el túnel de Tournemire (Aveyron, Francia) para llevar a cabo estudios sobre el flujo potencial de fluídos a diferentes escalas temporales y espaciales, en una formación arcillosa de 250 m de espesor. La argilita tiene un contenido natural bajo de agua ( 3-5%) y una porosidad accesible muy pequeña. Los coeficientes de difusión de agua con tritio (entre 10-12 y 2×10-11 m2/s) y las conductividades hidráulicas calculadas a partir de diferentes ensayos de laboratorio (entre 10-13 y 10-14 m/s) son característicos de rocas de muy baja permeabilidad. Se hicieron ensayos hidráulicos in-situ (incluyendo medidas de nivel piezométrico de larga duración) para obtener valores del nivel piezométrico y de la conductividad hidráulica a una escala de 1-10 m (con valores entre 10-11 y 10-13 m/s). A pesar de las incertidumbres sobre estos datos (debido a factores de escala, a la presencia de fisuras y a posibles artificios ocasionados por el acoplamiento hidro-quimiomecánico), se espera que el flujo de fluídos esté esencialmente controlado por procesos de difusión. La identificación de posibles flujos naturales a escalas temporales y espaciales mayores fue investigada mediante trazadores isotópicos naturales del fluído intersticial. La modelación, basada en el perfil de deuterio a lo largo de la formación de arcilla y en la hipótesis de procesos puramente difusivos, proporciona estimaciones de posibles tiempos de tránsito. Sin embargo, la falta de conocimiento sobre la evolución geológica del lugar y sobre el rol potencial de una red de fracturas no permite reducir las incertidumbres asociadas, en el momento actual, a dichas estimaciones.

The prevalence differences of musculoskeletal problems and related physical workload among hospital staff.

PubMed

Genç, Arzu; Kahraman, Turhan; Göz, Evrim

2016-08-10

The musculoskeletal problems (MSP) vary among different occupations since they had different characteristics and physical workloads. Therefore, it is important to know the difference between the occupational groups to design preventing physiotherapy interventions. To investigate the prevalence differences of MSPs and related physical workload among hospital staff. In this cross-sectional study, 416 hospital staff completed the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire for MSP and Physical Workload Questionnaire for assessing the physical workload. One-year prevalence of low back, neck, upper back, and shoulders were 73.8%, 59.9%, 59.4%, and 52.2%, respectively. The most preventing MSPs from work found in the low back (39.2%), upper back (26.7%), and the neck (24.5%). MSP of low back impacted nurses the most with a 1-year prevalence of 81.3% and 57.1% of nurses were prevented from working. Nurses, service and cleaning staff had significantly more physical workload than secretaries and physicians. MSP of low back had the highest prevalence among hospital staff and it was the leading cause which prevented from working. Nurses were the most in danger in terms of MSPs among hospital staff. Physical workload was significantly higher in nurses, service and cleaning staff than secretaries and physicians.

Novel wearable-type biometric devices based on skin tissue optics with multispectral LED-photodiode matrix

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jo, Young Chang; Kim, Hae Na; Kang, Jae Hwan; Hong, Hyuck Ki; Choi, Yeon Shik; Jung, Suk Won; Kim, Sung Phil

2017-04-01

In this study, we examined the possibility of using a multispectral skin photomatrix (MSP) module as a novel biometric device. The MSP device measures optical patterns of the wrist skin tissue. Optical patterns consist of 2 × 8 photocurrent intensities of photodiode arrays, which are generated by optical transmission and diffuse reflection of photons from LED light sources with variable wavelengths into the wrist skin tissue. Optical patterns detected by the MSP device provide information on both the surface and subsurface characteristics of the human skin tissue. We found that in the 21 subjects we studied, they showed their unique characteristics, as determined using several wavelengths of light. The experimental results show that the best personal identification accuracy can be acquired using a combination of infrared light and yellow light. This novel biometric device, the MSP module, exhibited an excellent false acceptance rate (FAR) of 0.3% and a false rejection rate (FRR) of 0.0%, which are better than those of commercialized biometric devices such as a fingerprint biometric system. From these experimental results, we found that people exhibit unique optical patterns of their inner-wrist skin tissue and this uniqueness could be used for developing novel high-accuracy personal identification devices.

Une version canadienne française du Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) : L'Échelle fonctionnelle des membres inférieurs (ÉFMI), partie I

PubMed Central

René, Frédéric; Casimiro, Lynn; Tremblay, Manon; Lefebvre, Annabelle; Beaudouin, Martine; Belliveau, Véronik; Bergeron, Louis-Philippe

2011-01-01

RÉSUMÉ Introduction : Le Rehabilitation Network of Ottawa-Carleton (RENOC) recommande à ses établissements de santé d'utiliser le Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS). Puisque le RENOC dessert une clientèle anglophone et francophone, il s'imposait de traduire le LEFS pour l'évaluation de la clientèle francophone. But : Produire une traduction canadienne-française du LEFS sous l'appellation proposée « Échelle fonctionnelle des membres inférieurs (ÉFMI) » et examiner la validité de son contenu. Méthodologie : Nous avons utilisé une approche modifiée de la méthodologie de validation transculturelle de questionnaires de Vallerand (1989). Une traduction renversée parallèle du LEFS a d'abord été complétée. Ensuite, un comité d'experts a examiné les deux versions préliminaires et a créé la première version expérimentale de l'ÉFMI. Cette version fut évaluée par un deuxième comité d'experts, dont les commentaires menèrent à une deuxième version expérimentale. Finalement, 35 professionnels de la réadaptation évaluèrent la version expérimentale de l'ÉFMI sur une échelle d'ambiguïté et proposèrent les modifications finales. Résultats : Pour les différents énoncés de la version finale de l'ÉFMI, les moyennes sur l'échelle d'ambiguïté démontrent un niveau d'ambiguïté relativement faible puisqu'elles varient entre 1 et 2.54. Conclusion : Les quatre étapes rigoureuses du processus ont permis de produire une version valide du LEFS en français. PMID:22379265

Testing the Multispecimen Absolute Paleointensity Method with Archaeological Baked Clays and Bricks: New Data for Central Europe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schnepp, Elisabeth; Leonhardt, Roman

2014-05-01

The domain-state corrected multiple-specimen paleointensity determination technique (MSP-DSC, Fabian & Leonhardt, EPSL 297, 84, 2010) has been tested for archaeological baked clays and bricks. The following procedure was applied: (1) Exclusion of secondary overprints using alternating field (AF) or thermal demagnetization and assignment of characteristic remanent magnetization (ChRM) direction. (2) Determination of magneto mineralogical alteration using anhysteretic remanent magnetization (ARM) or temperature dependence of susceptibility. (3) Measurement of ARM anisotropy tensor, calculation of the ancient magnetic field direction. (4) Sister specimens were subjected to the MSP-DSC technique aligned (anti-)parallel to the ancient magnetic field direction. (5) Several checks were applied in order to exclude data points from further evaluation: (a) The accuracy of orientation (< 10°), (b) absence of secondary components (< 10°), (c) use of a considerable NRM fraction (20 to 80%), (d) weak alteration (smaller than for domain state change) and finally (e) domain state correction was applied. Bricks and baked clays from archaeological sites with ages between 645 BC and 2003 AD have been subjected to MSP-DSC absolute paleointensity (PI) determination. Aims of study are to check precision and reliability of the method. The obtained PI values are compared with direct field observation, the IGRF, the GUFM1 or Thellier results. The Thellier experiments often show curved lines and pTRM checks fail for higher temperatures. Nevertheless in the low temperature range straight lines have been obtained but they provide scattered paleointensity values. Mean paleointensites have relative errors often exceeding 10%, which are not considered as high quality PI estimates. MSP-DSC experiments for the structures older than 300 years are still under progress. The paleointensities obtained from the MSP-DSC experiments for the young materials (after 1700 AD) have small relative errors of a few or even less than one per cent, although the data points are scattered in some cases. For these sites comparison with the historical field values shows very good agreement. Small deviations could be explained by the higher cooling rates used in the laboratory. These young structures were made of bricks and the unweathered baked clay of the 2003 experimental kiln was like brick, either. The sites provided much material so that tests were done to investigate the MSP-DSC methodology further. For example it was tested, if different NRM deblocking fractions have influence on the paleointensity estimate. It seems that use of fractions lower than 20% of the NRM can lead to an underestimation of PI. Although MSP-DSC experiments carried out on different blocks of the same structure can provide very similar results, the use of several fragments from at least five different units (potshards, bricks, in situ burnt blocks or rocks) of the same structure is recommended in or to obtain a reliable estimate of the experimental errors. Five data points may define already a well constraint straight line, but for a better precision 15 (< 2%) data points may be required. For the young structures the MSP-DSC method provided reliable PI estimates which have been included into the archaeointensity data base

Expression of recombinant myostatin propeptide pPIC9K-Msp plasmid in Pichia pastoris.

PubMed

Du, W; Xia, J; Zhang, Y; Liu, M J; Li, H B; Yan, X M; Zhang, J S; Li, N; Zhou, Z Y; Xie, W Z

2015-12-28

Myostatin propeptide can inhibit the biological activity of myostatin protein and promote muscle growth. To express myostatin propeptide in vitro with a higher biological activity, we performed codon optimization on the sheep myostatin propeptide gene sequence, and mutated aspartic acid-76 to alanine based on the codon usage bias of Pichia pastoris and the enhanced biological activity of myostatin propeptide mutant. Modified myostatin propeptide gene was cloned into the pPIC9K plasmid to form the recombinant plasmid pPIC9K-Msp. Recombinant plasmid pPIC9K-Msp was transformed into Pichia pastoris GS115 by electrotransformation. Transformed cells were screened, and methanol was used to induce expression. SDS-PAGE and western blotting were used to verify the successful expression of myostatin propeptide with biological activity in Pichia pastoris, providing the basis for characterization of this protein.

Measurement of mass stopping power of chitosan polymer loaded with TiO2 for relativistic electron interaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Babu, S. Ramesh; Badiger, N. M.; Karidurgannavar, M. Y.; Varghese, Jolly. G.

2018-04-01

The Mass Stopping Power (MSP) of relativistic electrons in chitosan loaded with TiO2 of different proportions has been measured by recording the spectrum of internal conversion electrons. The internal conversion electrons of energies 614 keV from Cs137, 942 keV and 1016 keV from Bi207 source are allowed to pass through chitosan-TiO2 alloy and transmitted electrons are detected with a Si (Li) detector coupled to an 8 K multichannel analyzer. By knowing the energies of incident electrons and transmitted electrons, the energy loss and the MSP are determined. Thus measured MSP values of the alloys are compared with the values calculated using Braggs additivity rule. The disagreement between theory and experiment is found to increases with increasing TiO2 concentration in chitosan, indicating the influence of chemical environment in the properties of such polymeric membrane.

Angular momentum projection for a Nilsson mean-field plus pairing model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yin; Pan, Feng; Launey, Kristina D.; Luo, Yan-An; Draayer, J. P.

2016-06-01

The angular momentum projection for the axially deformed Nilsson mean-field plus a modified standard pairing (MSP) or the nearest-level pairing (NLP) model is proposed. Both the exact projection, in which all intrinsic states are taken into consideration, and the approximate projection, in which only intrinsic states with K = 0 are taken in the projection, are considered. The analysis shows that the approximate projection with only K = 0 intrinsic states seems reasonable, of which the configuration subspace considered is greatly reduced. As simple examples for the model application, low-lying spectra and electromagnetic properties of 18O and 18Ne are described by using both the exact and approximate angular momentum projection of the MSP or the NLP, while those of 20Ne and 24Mg are described by using the approximate angular momentum projection of the MSP or NLP.

Micromechanisms of intergranular brittle ftacture in intermetallic compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vitek, V.

1991-06-01

Grain boundaries in intermetallic compounds such as Ni3A1 are inherently brittle. The reason is usually sought in grain boundary cohesion but in metals even brittle fracture is accompanied by some local plasticity and thus not only cohesion but also dislocation mobility in the boundary region need to be studied. We first discuss here the role of an irreversible shear deformation at the crack tip during microcrack propagation assuming that these two processes are concomitant. It is shown that a pre-existing crack cannot propagate in a brittle manner once the dislocation emission occurs. However, if a microcrack nucleates during loading it can propagate concurrently with the development of the irreversible shear deformation at the crack tip. The latter is then the major energy dissipating process. In the second part of this paper we present results of atomistic studies of grain boundaries in Ni3A1 and CU3Au which suggest that substantial structural differences exist between strongly and weakly ordered L12 alloys. We discuss then the consequence of these differences for intergranular brittleness in the framework of the above model for microcrack propagation. On this basis we propose an explanation for the intrinsic intergranular brittleness in some L12 alloys and relate it directly to the strength of ordering. Les joints de grains dans les composés intermétalliques de type Ni3AI sont de nature fragile. L'origine de cette fragilité est habituellement dans la cohésion des joints de grains. Dans les métaux, cependant, même la rupture fragile est accompagnée d'une certaine déformation plastique locale, de telle sorte que non seulement la cohésion mais aussi la mobilité des dislocations près des joints doit être étudiée. Nous discutons d'abord le rôle d'une déformation en cisaillement irréversible en tête de fissure pendant la propagation de cette fissure, en supposant que les deux processus sont concomitants. Nous montrons qu'une fissure préexistante ne peut pas se propager de manière fragile, une fois que l'émission de dislocations se produit. Cependant, si une microfissure apparaît pendant le changement, elle peut se développer en concurrence avec le développement d'un cisaillement irréversible en tête de fissure. Ce demier est alors le principal mécanisme dissipatif d'énergie. Dans la deuxième partie de cet article, nous présentons des résultats d'études atomiques de joints de grain dans Ni3AI et CU3Au, suggérant qu'il existe des différences de structure substancielles entre les alliages L12 fortement et faiblement ordonnés. Nous discutons ensuite la conséquence de ces différences pour la fragilité intergranulaire, à l'aide du modèle ci-dessus pour la propagation des microfissures. Sur cette base, nous proposons une explication pour la fragilité intergranulaire intrinsèque de quelques alliages L12, et nous la relions directement au degré d'ordre.

Pathways between depression, substance use and multiple sex partners among Northern and Indigenous young women in the Northwest Territories, Canada: results from a cross-sectional survey.

PubMed

Logie, Carmen H; Lys, Candice; Okumu, Moses; Leone, Cristina

2017-10-07

Sexual and mental health disparities exist in the Northwest Territories (NWT) compared with other Canadian regions. STI rates are 10-fold higher, and youth suicide rates double the Canadian average. Scant research has examined associations between mental and sexual health among youth in the NWT. The study objective was to explore pathways from depression to multiple sex partners (MSP) among young women in the NWT, Canada. We implemented a cross-sectional survey in 2015-2016 with a venue-based recruitment sample of young women aged 13-17 attending secondary schools in 17 NWT communities. We conducted path analysis to test a conceptual model examining associations between depression and a history of MSP, examining substance use and peer support as mediators. Participants (n=199; mean age: 13.8, SD: 1.27) mostly identified were Indigenous (n=154; 77.4%) and one-fifth (n=39; 20.5%) were sexually diverse/non-heterosexual. Almost two-thirds (n=119; 63.3%) reported depression symptoms. One-quarter (n=53; 26.6%) were currently dating, and 16.1% (n=32) reported a lifetime history of >1 sex partner (classified as having MSP). There was no direct effect between depression and MSP (β=0.189, p=0.087, 95% CI 0.046 to 0.260). Depression had a direct effect on substance use (β=0.023, p<0.050, 95% CI 0.118 to 0.500), and an indirect effect on MSP through substance use (β=0.498, SE =0.10, p<0.001, 95% CI 0.141 to 0.280). Depression was associated with lower peer support (β=-0.168, p<0.010, 95% CI -0.126 to 0.280); peer support was not associated with MSP (β=-0.158, p=0.130, 95% CI -0.126 to 0.001). This research is among the first to identify mental health factors associated with STI vulnerability among young women in the NWT. Findings demonstrate the importance of addressing depression and substance use in sexual health interventions in Northern contexts. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

CpG Oligodeoxynucleotide and Montanide ISA 51 Adjuvant Combination Enhanced the Protective Efficacy of a Subunit Malaria Vaccine

PubMed Central

Kumar, Sanjai; Jones, Trevor R.; Oakley, Miranda S.; Zheng, Hong; Kuppusamy, Shanmuga P.; Taye, Alem; Krieg, Arthur M.; Stowers, Anthony W.; Kaslow, David C.; Hoffman, Stephen L.

2004-01-01

Unmethylated CpG dinucleotide motifs present in bacterial genomes or synthetic oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) serve as strong immunostimulatory agents in mice, monkeys and humans. We determined the adjuvant effect of murine CpG ODN 1826 on the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae-expressed 19-kDa C-terminal region of merozoite surface protein 1 (yMSP119) of the murine malaria parasite Plasmodium yoelii. We found that in C57BL/6 mice, following sporozoite challenge, the degree of protective immunity against malaria induced by yMSP119 in a formulation of Montanide ISA 51 (ISA) plus CpG ODN 1826 was similar or superior to that conferred by yMSP119 emulsified in complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA/incomplete Freund's adjuvant). In total, among mice immunized with yMSP119, 22 of 32 (68.7%) with ISA plus CpG 1826, 0 of 4 (0%) with CFA/incomplete Freund’s adjuvant, 0 of 4 (0%) with CpG 1826 mixed with ISA (no yMSP119), and 0 of 11 (0%) with CpG 1826 alone were completely protected against development of erythrocytic stage infection after sporozoite challenge. The adjuvant effect of CpG ODN 1826 was manifested as both significantly improved complete protection from malaria (defined as the absence of detectable erythrocytic form parasites) (P = 0.007, chi square) and reduced parasite burden in infected mice. In vivo depletions of interleukin-12 and gamma interferon cytokines and CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in vaccinated mice had no significant effect on immunity. On the other hand, immunoglobulin G (IgG) isotype levels appeared to correlate with protection. Inclusion of CpG ODN 1826 in the yMSP119 plus ISA vaccine contributed towards the induction of higher levels of IgG2a and IgG2b (Th1 type) antibodies, suggesting that CpG ODN 1826 caused a shift towards a Th1 type of immune response that could be responsible for the higher degree of protective immunity. Our results indicate that this potent adjuvant formulation should be further evaluated for use in clinical trials of recombinant malarial vaccine candidates. PMID:14742540

Vaccines for preventing malaria (blood-stage).

PubMed

Graves, P; Gelband, H

2006-10-18

A malaria vaccine is needed because of the heavy burden of mortality and morbidity due to this disease. This review describes the results of trials of blood (asexual)-stage vaccines. Several are under development, but only one (MSP/RESA, also known as Combination B) has been tested in randomized controlled trials. To assess the effect of blood-stage malaria vaccines in preventing infection, disease, and death. In March 2006, we searched the Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group Specialized Register, CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library 2006, Issue 1), MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, and the Science Citation Index. We also searched conference proceedings and reference lists of articles, and contacted organizations and researchers in the field. Randomized controlled trials comparing blood-stage vaccines (other than SPf66) against P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. malariae, or P. ovale with placebo, control vaccine, or routine antimalarial control measures in people of any age receiving a challenge malaria infection. Both authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data. Results for dichotomous data were expressed as relative risks (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Five trials of MSP/RESA vaccine with 217 participants were included; all five reported on safety, and two on efficacy. No severe or systemic adverse effects were reported at doses of 13 to 15 microg of each antigen (39 to 45 microg total). One small efficacy trial with 17 non-immune participants with blood-stage parasites showed no reduction or delay in parasite growth rates after artificial challenge. In the second efficacy trial in 120 children aged five to nine years in Papua New Guinea, episodes of clinical malaria were not reduced, but MSP/RESA significantly reduced parasite density only in children who had not been pretreated with an antimalarial drug (sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine). Infections with the 3D7 parasite subtype of MSP2 (the variant included in the vaccine) were reduced (RR 0.38, 95% CI 0.26 to 0.57; 719 participants) while those with the other main subtype, FC27, were not (720 participants). The MSP/RESA (Combination B) vaccine shows promise as a way to reduce the severity of malaria episodes, but the effect of the vaccine is MSP2 variant-specific. Pretreatment for malaria during a vaccine trial makes the results difficult to interpret, particularly with the relatively small sample sizes of early trials. The results show that blood-stage vaccines may play a role and merit further development.

Short-term outcomes of a program developed to inculcate research essentials in undergraduate medical students.

PubMed

Devi, V; Ramnarayan, K; Abraham, R R; Pallath, V; Kamath, A; Kodidela, S

2015-01-01

Participation in research during undergraduate studies may increase students' interest in research and inculcate research essentials in them. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the mentored student project (MSP) program. In the MSP program, students in groups (n = 3 to 5) undertook a research project, wrote a scholarly report, and presented the work as a poster presentation with the help of a faculty mentor. To begin with, the logic model of the program was developed to identify short-term outcomes of the program on students, mentors, and the institution. A quasi-experimental design was used to measure the outcomes. A mixed method evaluation was done using a newly-developed questionnaire to assess the impact of the MSP on students' attitude, a multiple-choice question (MCQs) test to find out the impact on students' knowledge and grading of students' project reports and posters along with a survey to check the impact on skills. Students' satisfaction regarding the program and mentors' perceptions were collected using questionnaires. Evidence for validity was collected for all the instruments used for the evaluation. Non-parametric tests were used to analyze data. Based on the scores, project reports and posters were graded into A (>70% marks), B (60-69% marks), and C (<59% marks) categories. The number of MSPs that resulted in publications, conference presentation and departmental collaborations were taken as impact on the institution. Students' response rate was 91.5%. The students' attitudes regarding research changed positively (P = 0.036) and score in the MCQ test improved (P < 0.001) after undertaking MSP. Majority of project reports and posters were of grade A category. The majority of the items related to skills gained and satisfaction had a median score of 4. The MSPs resulted in inter-departmental and inter-institutional collaborations, 14 publications and 15 conference presentations. An area for improvement noted was to have the MSP implemented in the curriculum without increasing students' overall workload and stress. The study identified strengths and weaknesses of the MSP program. Our model of undergraduate research project may be incorporated in undergraduate medical programs to foster positive attitude and knowledge base about scientific research and to instil research skills among students.

Short-term outcomes of a program developed to inculcate research essentials in undergraduate medical students

PubMed Central

Devi, V; Ramnarayan, K; Abraham, RR; Pallath, V; Kamath, A; Kodidela, S

2015-01-01

Background: Participation in research during undergraduate studies may increase students’ interest in research and inculcate research essentials in them. Aims: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the mentored student project (MSP) program. Settings and Design: In the MSP program, students in groups (n = 3 to 5) undertook a research project, wrote a scholarly report, and presented the work as a poster presentation with the help of a faculty mentor. To begin with, the logic model of the program was developed to identify short-term outcomes of the program on students, mentors, and the institution. A quasi-experimental design was used to measure the outcomes. Materials and Methods: A mixed method evaluation was done using a newly-developed questionnaire to assess the impact of the MSP on students’ attitude, a multiple-choice question (MCQs) test to find out the impact on students’ knowledge and grading of students’ project reports and posters along with a survey to check the impact on skills. Students’ satisfaction regarding the program and mentors’ perceptions were collected using questionnaires. Evidence for validity was collected for all the instruments used for the evaluation. Statistical Analysis: Non-parametric tests were used to analyze data. Based on the scores, project reports and posters were graded into A (>70% marks), B (60-69% marks), and C (<59% marks) categories. The number of MSPs that resulted in publications, conference presentation and departmental collaborations were taken as impact on the institution. Results: Students’ response rate was 91.5%. The students’ attitudes regarding research changed positively (P = 0.036) and score in the MCQ test improved (P < 0.001) after undertaking MSP. Majority of project reports and posters were of grade A category. The majority of the items related to skills gained and satisfaction had a median score of 4. The MSPs resulted in inter-departmental and inter-institutional collaborations, 14 publications and 15 conference presentations. An area for improvement noted was to have the MSP implemented in the curriculum without increasing students’ overall workload and stress. Conclusion: The study identified strengths and weaknesses of the MSP program. Our model of undergraduate research project may be incorporated in undergraduate medical programs to foster positive attitude and knowledge base about scientific research and to instil research skills among students. PMID:26119435

Gender, Cultural Influences, and Coping with Musculoskeletal Pain at Work: The Experience of Malaysian Female Office Workers.

PubMed

Maakip, Ismail; Oakman, Jodi; Stuckey, Rwth

2017-06-01

Purpose Workers with musculoskeletal pain (MSP) often continue to work despite their condition. Understanding the factors that enable them to remain at work provides insights into the development of appropriate workplace accommodations. This qualitative study aims to explore the strategies utilised by female Malaysian office workers with MSP to maintain productive employment. Methods A qualitative approach using thematic analysis was used. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 female Malaysian office workers with MSP. Initial codes were identified and refined through iterative discussion to further develop the emerging codes and modify the coding framework. A further stage of coding was undertaken to eliminate redundant codes and establish analytic connections between distinct themes. Results Two major themes were identified: managing the demands of work and maintaining employment with persistent musculoskeletal pain. Participants reported developing strategies to assist them to remain at work, but most focused on individually initiated adaptations or peer support, rather than systemic changes to work systems or practices. A combination of the patriarchal and hierarchical cultural occupational context emerged as a critical factor in the finding of individual or peer based adaptations rather than organizational accommodations. Conclusions It is recommended that supervisors be educated in the benefits of maintaining and retaining employees with MSP, and encouraged to challenge cultural norms and develop appropriate flexible workplace accommodations through consultation and negotiation with these workers.

Compact X-ray Binary Re-creation in Core Collapse: NGC 6397

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grindlay, J. E.; Bogdanov, S.; van den Berg, M.; Heinke, C.

2005-12-01

We report new Chandra observations of the core collapsed globular cluster NGC 6397. In comparison with our original Chandra observations (Grindlay et al 2001, ApJ, 563, L53), we now detect some 30 sources (vs. 20) in the cluster. A new CV is confirmed, though new HST/ACS optical observations (see Cohn et al this meeting) show that one of the original CV candidates is a background AGN). The 9 CVs (optically identified) yet only one MSP and one qLMXB suggest either a factor of 7 reduction in NSs/WDs vs. what we find in 47Tuc (see Grindlay 2005, Proc. Cefalu Conf. on Interacting Binaries) or that CVs are produced in the core collapse. The possible second MSP with main sequence companion, source U18 (see Grindlay et al 2001) is similar in its X-ray and optical properties to MSP-W in 47Tuc, which must have swapped its binary companion. Together with the one confirmed (radio) MSP in NGC 6397, with an evolved main sequence secondary, the process of enhanced partner swapping in the high stellar density of core collapse is implicated. At the same time, main sequence - main sequence binaries (active binaries) are depleted in the cluster core, presumably by "binary burning" in core collapse. These binary re-creation and destruction mechanisms in core collapse have profound implications for binary evolution and mergers in globulars that have undergone core collapse.

Analysis of the maximum discharge of karst springs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonacci, Ognjen

2001-07-01

Analyses are presented of the conditions that limit the discharge of some karst springs. The large number of springs studied show that, under conditions of extremely intense precipitation, a maximum value exists for the discharge of the main springs in a catchment, independent of catchment size and the amount of precipitation. Outflow modelling of karst-spring discharge is not easily generalized and schematized due to numerous specific characteristics of karst-flow systems. A detailed examination of the published data on four karst springs identified the possible reasons for the limitation on the maximum flow rate: (1) limited size of the karst conduit; (2) pressure flow; (3) intercatchment overflow; (4) overflow from the main spring-flow system to intermittent springs within the same catchment; (5) water storage in the zone above the karst aquifer or epikarstic zone of the catchment; and (6) factors such as climate, soil and vegetation cover, and altitude and geology of the catchment area. The phenomenon of limited maximum-discharge capacity of karst springs is not included in rainfall-runoff process modelling, which is probably one of the main reasons for the present poor quality of karst hydrological modelling. Résumé. Les conditions qui limitent le débit de certaines sources karstiques sont présentées. Un grand nombre de sources étudiées montrent que, sous certaines conditions de précipitations extrêmement intenses, il existe une valeur maximale pour le débit des sources principales d'un bassin, indépendante des dimensions de ce bassin et de la hauteur de précipitation. La modélisation des débits d'exhaure d'une source karstique n'est pas facilement généralisable, ni schématisable, à cause des nombreuses caractéristiques spécifiques des écoulements souterrains karstiques. Un examen détaillé des données publiées concernant quatre sources karstiques permet d'identifier les raisons possibles de la limitation de l'écoulement maximal: (1) la dimension limitée du conduit karstique, (2) l'écoulement en charge, (3) le débordement dans un autre bassin, (4) le débordement du réseau s'écoulant vers la source principale par des sources temporaires dans le même bassin, (5) le stockage d'eau dans la zone surmontant l'aquifère karstique ou la zone épikarstique du bassin, et (6) des facteurs tels que le climat, le sol et le couvert végétal, l'altitude et la géologie du bassin d'alimentation. Le phénomène de capacité limitée du débit maximal des sources karstiques n'est pas pris en compte dans la modélisation des processus de précipitation-ruissellement, ce qui est probablement une des principales raisons de l'actuelle médiocre qualité de la modélisation hydrologique du karst. Resumen. Se presenta un análisis de las condiciones que limitan la descarga de algunos manantiales kársticos. Un elevado número de los manantiales estudiados muestra que, bajo condiciones de precipitación extremadamente intensa, hay un valor máximo para la descarga de los manantiales principales de la cuenca, independientemente del tamaño de ésta y del volumen de precipitación. La modelación de la descarga de manantiales kársticos no es fácil de generalizar y esquematizar debido a la existencia de numerosas características que son inherentes a los sistemas kársticos de flujo. A partir del estudio detallado de los datos publicados sobre cuatro manantiales kársticos, se identificó las posibles causas de la existencia de un caudal máximo de descarga: (1) el tamaño limitado del conducto kárstico, (2) el caudal surgente, (3) la descarga a otras cuencas, (4) el desbordamiento del sistema de flujo principal hacia manantiales intermitentes dentro de la misma cuenca, (5) el almacenamiento de agua en la zona superior del acuífero kárstico o zona epikárstica de la cuenca, y (6) factores tales como el clima, suelo y cubierta vegetal, y la altitud y geología de la zona de captación. La limitación de la descarga máxima de los manantiales kársticos no ha sido incluida en la modelación del proceso lluvia-escorrentía, hecho que probablemente es esencial para explicar los resultados poco satisfactorios de la modelación hidrológica de sistemas kársticos.

Using operational data to estimate the reliable yields of water-supply wells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Misstear, Bruce D. R.; Beeson, Sarah

The reliable yield of a water-supply well depends on many different factors, including the properties of the well and the aquifer; the capacities of the pumps, raw-water mains, and treatment works; the interference effects from other wells; and the constraints imposed by ion licences, water quality, and environmental issues. A relatively simple methodology for estimating reliable yields has been developed that takes into account all of these factors. The methodology is based mainly on an analysis of water-level and source-output data, where such data are available. Good operational data are especially important when dealing with wells in shallow, unconfined, fissure-flow aquifers, where actual well performance may vary considerably from that predicted using a more analytical approach. Key issues in the yield-assessment process are the identification of a deepest advisable pumping water level, and the collection of the appropriate well, aquifer, and operational data. Although developed for water-supply operators in the United Kingdom, this approach to estimating the reliable yields of water-supply wells using operational data should be applicable to a wide range of hydrogeological conditions elsewhere. Résumé La productivité d'un puits capté pour l'adduction d'eau potable dépend de différents facteurs, parmi lesquels les propriétés du puits et de l'aquifère, la puissance des pompes, le traitement des eaux brutes, les effets d'interférences avec d'autres puits et les contraintes imposées par les autorisations d'exploitation, par la qualité des eaux et par les conditions environnementales. Une méthodologie relativement simple d'estimation de la productivité qui prenne en compte tous ces facteurs a été mise au point. Cette méthodologie est basée surtout sur une analyse des données concernant le niveau piézométrique et le débit de prélèvement, quand ces données sont disponibles. De bonnes données opérationnelles sont particulièrement importantes quand il s'agit de puits dans des aquifères fissurés, libres et peu profonds, dans lesquels la performance réelle d'un puits peut varier considérablement de celle prédite à partir d'une approche plus analytique. Des données essentielles dans les processus d'estimation de la productivité sont l'identification d'un niveau piézométrique de pompage le plus profond possible et le recueil de données opérationnelles appropriées concernant le puits et l'aquifère. Bien qu'elle ait été développée pour des opérateurs gérant des captages en Grande-Bretagne, cette approche de l'estimation de la productivité des puits de captage d'eau potable à partir de données opérationnelles peut être appliquée à une large gamme de conditions hydrogéologiques en d'autres lieux. Resumen La productividad de un pozo de abastecimiento depende de varios factores, entre los que se incluyen las propiedades del pozo y del acuífero, la capacidad de la bomba, las obras de mantenimiento, la interferencia de otras captaciones y las restricciones impuestas por permisos legales, calidad del agua y aspectos ambientales. Se ha desarrollado una metodología relativamente simple para estimar la productividad de un pozo teniendo en cuenta todos los factores previamente mencionados. Esta metodología se basa principalmente en el análisis de niveles y caudales cuando estos datos están disponibles. Se requieren buenos datos de operación, principalmente cuando el pozo está situado en un acuífero de poco espesor, no confinado y en medio fracturado, donde la respuesta del sistema puede diferir enormemente de la predicción analítica. Un punto destacado en el estudio de productividad es la identificación del descenso máximo admisible. Aunque desarrollada para el Reino Unido, la metodología puede ser utilizada a un amplio rango de condiciones hidrogeológicas en otras zonas del mundo.

Genetic determinants of anti-malarial acquired immunity in a large multi-centre study.

PubMed

Shelton, Jennifer M G; Corran, Patrick; Risley, Paul; Silva, Nilupa; Hubbart, Christina; Jeffreys, Anna; Rowlands, Kate; Craik, Rachel; Cornelius, Victoria; Hensmann, Meike; Molloy, Sile; Sepulveda, Nuno; Clark, Taane G; Band, Gavin; Clarke, Geraldine M; Spencer, Christopher C A; Kerasidou, Angeliki; Campino, Susana; Auburn, Sarah; Tall, Adama; Ly, Alioune Badara; Mercereau-Puijalon, Odile; Sakuntabhai, Anavaj; Djimdé, Abdoulaye; Maiga, Boubacar; Touré, Ousmane; Doumbo, Ogobara K; Dolo, Amagana; Troye-Blomberg, Marita; Mangano, Valentina D; Verra, Frederica; Modiano, David; Bougouma, Edith; Sirima, Sodiomon B; Ibrahim, Muntaser; Hussain, Ayman; Eid, Nahid; Elzein, Abier; Mohammed, Hiba; Elhassan, Ahmed; Elhassan, Ibrahim; Williams, Thomas N; Ndila, Carolyne; Macharia, Alexander; Marsh, Kevin; Manjurano, Alphaxard; Reyburn, Hugh; Lemnge, Martha; Ishengoma, Deus; Carter, Richard; Karunaweera, Nadira; Fernando, Deepika; Dewasurendra, Rajika; Drakeley, Christopher J; Riley, Eleanor M; Kwiatkowski, Dominic P; Rockett, Kirk A

2015-08-28

Many studies report associations between human genetic factors and immunity to malaria but few have been reliably replicated. These studies are usually country-specific, use small sample sizes and are not directly comparable due to differences in methodologies. This study brings together samples and data collected from multiple sites across Africa and Asia to use standardized methods to look for consistent genetic effects on anti-malarial antibody levels. Sera, DNA samples and clinical data were collected from 13,299 individuals from ten sites in Senegal, Mali, Burkina Faso, Sudan, Kenya, Tanzania, and Sri Lanka using standardized methods. DNA was extracted and typed for 202 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms with known associations to malaria or antibody production, and antibody levels to four clinical grade malarial antigens [AMA1, MSP1, MSP2, and (NANP)4] plus total IgE were measured by ELISA techniques. Regression models were used to investigate the associations of clinical and genetic factors with antibody levels. Malaria infection increased levels of antibodies to malaria antigens and, as expected, stable predictors of anti-malarial antibody levels included age, seasonality, location, and ethnicity. Correlations between antibodies to blood-stage antigens AMA1, MSP1 and MSP2 were higher between themselves than with antibodies to the (NANP)4 epitope of the pre-erythrocytic circumsporozoite protein, while there was little or no correlation with total IgE levels. Individuals with sickle cell trait had significantly lower antibody levels to all blood-stage antigens, and recessive homozygotes for CD36 (rs321198) had significantly lower anti-malarial antibody levels to MSP2. Although the most significant finding with a consistent effect across sites was for sickle cell trait, its effect is likely to be via reducing a microscopically positive parasitaemia rather than directly on antibody levels. However, this study does demonstrate a framework for the feasibility of combining data from sites with heterogeneous malaria transmission levels across Africa and Asia with which to explore genetic effects on anti-malarial immunity.

Multiple sparse volumetric priors for distributed EEG source reconstruction.

PubMed

Strobbe, Gregor; van Mierlo, Pieter; De Vos, Maarten; Mijović, Bogdan; Hallez, Hans; Van Huffel, Sabine; López, José David; Vandenberghe, Stefaan

2014-10-15

We revisit the multiple sparse priors (MSP) algorithm implemented in the statistical parametric mapping software (SPM) for distributed EEG source reconstruction (Friston et al., 2008). In the present implementation, multiple cortical patches are introduced as source priors based on a dipole source space restricted to a cortical surface mesh. In this note, we present a technique to construct volumetric cortical regions to introduce as source priors by restricting the dipole source space to a segmented gray matter layer and using a region growing approach. This extension allows to reconstruct brain structures besides the cortical surface and facilitates the use of more realistic volumetric head models including more layers, such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), compared to the standard 3-layered scalp-skull-brain head models. We illustrated the technique with ERP data and anatomical MR images in 12 subjects. Based on the segmented gray matter for each of the subjects, cortical regions were created and introduced as source priors for MSP-inversion assuming two types of head models. The standard 3-layered scalp-skull-brain head models and extended 4-layered head models including CSF. We compared these models with the current implementation by assessing the free energy corresponding with each of the reconstructions using Bayesian model selection for group studies. Strong evidence was found in favor of the volumetric MSP approach compared to the MSP approach based on cortical patches for both types of head models. Overall, the strongest evidence was found in favor of the volumetric MSP reconstructions based on the extended head models including CSF. These results were verified by comparing the reconstructed activity. The use of volumetric cortical regions as source priors is a useful complement to the present implementation as it allows to introduce more complex head models and volumetric source priors in future studies. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Phase I Clinical Trial of a Recombinant Blood Stage Vaccine Candidate for Plasmodium falciparum Malaria Based on MSP1 and EBA175

PubMed Central

Chitnis, Chetan E.; Mukherjee, Paushali; Mehta, Shantanu; Yazdani, Syed Shams; Dhawan, Shikha; Shakri, Ahmad Rushdi; Bharadwaj, Rukmini; Gupta, Puneet Kumar; Hans, Dhiraj; Mazumdar, Suman; Singh, Bijender; Kumar, Sanjeev; Pandey, Gaurav; Parulekar, Varsha; Imbault, Nathalie; Shivyogi, Preethi; Godbole, Girish; Mohan, Krishna; Leroy, Odile; Singh, Kavita; Chauhan, Virander S.

2015-01-01

Background A phase I randomised, controlled, single blind, dose escalation trial was conducted to evaluate safety and immunogenicity of JAIVAC-1, a recombinant blood stage vaccine candidate against Plasmodium falciparum malaria, composed of a physical mixture of two recombinant proteins, PfMSP-119, the 19 kD conserved, C-terminal region of PfMSP-1 and PfF2 the receptor-binding F2 domain of EBA175. Method Healthy malaria naïve Indian male subjects aged 18–45 years were recruited from the volunteer database of study site. Fifteen subjects in each cohort, randomised in a ratio of 2:1 and meeting the protocol specific eligibility criteria, were vaccinated either with three doses (10μg, 25μg and 50μg of each antigen) of JAIVAC-1 formulated with adjuvant Montanide ISA 720 or with standard dosage of Hepatitis B vaccine. Each subject received the assigned vaccine in the deltoid muscle of the upper arms on Day 0, Day 28 and Day 180. Results JAIVAC-1 was well tolerated and no serious adverse event was observed. All JAIVAC-1 subjects sero-converted for PfF2 but elicited poor immune response to PfMSP-119. Dose-response relationship was observed between vaccine dose of PfF2 and antibody response. The antibodies against PfF2 were predominantly of IgG1 and IgG3 isotype. Sera from JAIVAC-1 subjects reacted with late schizonts in a punctate pattern in immunofluorescence assays. Purified IgG from JAIVAC-1 sera displayed significant growth inhibitory activity against Plasmodium falciparum CAMP strain. Conclusion Antigen PfF2 should be retained as a component of a recombinant malaria vaccine but PfMSP-119 construct needs to be optimised to improve its immunogenicity. Trial Registration Clinical Trial Registry, India CTRI/2010/091/000301 PMID:25927360

Antibody responses to P. falciparum blood stage antigens and incidence of clinical malaria in children living in endemic area in Burkina Faso.

PubMed

Cherif, Mariama K; Ouédraogo, Oumarou; Sanou, Guillaume S; Diarra, Amidou; Ouédraogo, Alphonse; Tiono, Alfred; Cavanagh, David R; Michael, Theisen; Konaté, Amadou T; Watson, Nora L; Sanza, Megan; Dube, Tina J T; Sirima, Sodiomon B; Nebié, Issa

2017-09-08

High parasite-specific antibody levels are generally associated with low susceptibility to Plasmodium falciparum malaria. This has been supported by several studies in which clinical malaria cases of P. falciparum malaria were reported to be associated with low antibody avidities. This study was conducted to evaluate the role of age, malaria transmission intensity and incidence of clinical malaria in the induction of protective humoral immune response against P. falciparum malaria in children living in Burkina Faso. We combined levels of IgG and IgG subclasses responses to P. falciparum antigens: Merozoite Surface Protein 3 (MSP3), Merozoite Surface Protein 2a (MSP2a), Merozoite Surface Protein 2b (MSP2b), Glutamate Rich Protein R0 (GLURP R0) and Glutamate Rich Protein R2 (GLURP R2) in plasma samples from 325 children under five (05) years with age, malaria transmission season and malaria incidence. We notice higher prevalence of P. falciparum infection in low transmission season compared to high malaria transmission season. While, parasite density was lower in low transmission than high transmission season. IgG against all antigens investigated increased with age. High levels of IgG and IgG subclasses to all tested antigens except for GLURP R2 were associated with the intensity of malaria transmission. IgG to MSP3, MSP2b, GLURP R2 and GLURP R0 were associated with low incidence of malaria. All IgG subclasses were associated with low incidence of P. falciparum malaria, but these associations were stronger for cytophilic IgGs. On the basis of the data presented in this study, we conclude that the induction of humoral immune response to tested malaria antigens is related to age, transmission season level and incidence of clinical malaria.

Human erythrocyte band 3 functions as a receptor for the sialic acid-independent invasion of Plasmodium falciparum. Role of the RhopH3-MSP1 complex.

PubMed

Baldwin, Michael; Yamodo, Innocent; Ranjan, Ravi; Li, Xuerong; Mines, Gregory; Marinkovic, Marina; Hanada, Toshihiko; Oh, Steven S; Chishti, Athar H

2014-12-01

Plasmodium falciparum takes advantage of two broadly defined alternate invasion pathways when infecting human erythrocytes: one that depends on and the other that is independent of host sialic acid residues on the erythrocyte surface. Within the sialic acid-dependent (SAD) and sialic acid-independent (SAID) invasion pathways, several alternate host receptors are used by P. falciparum based on its particular invasion phenotype. Earlier, we reported that two putative extracellular regions of human erythrocyte band 3 termed 5C and 6A function as host invasion receptor segments binding parasite proteins MSP1 and MSP9 via a SAID mechanism. In this study, we developed two mono-specific anti-peptide chicken IgY antibodies to demonstrate that the 5C and 6A regions of band 3 are exposed on the surface of human erythrocytes. These antibodies inhibited erythrocyte invasion by the P. falciparum 3D7 and 7G8 strains (SAID invasion phenotype), and the blocking effect was enhanced in sialic acid-depleted erythrocytes. In contrast, the IgY antibodies had only a marginal inhibitory effect on FCR3 and Dd2 strains (SAD invasion phenotype). A direct biochemical interaction between erythrocyte band 3 epitopes and parasite RhopH3, identified by the yeast two-hybrid screen, was established. RhopH3 formed a complex with MSP119 and the 5ABC region of band 3, and a recombinant segment of RhopH3 inhibited parasite invasion in human erythrocytes. Together, these findings provide evidence that erythrocyte band 3 functions as a major host invasion receptor in the SAID invasion pathway by assembling a multi-protein complex composed of parasite ligands RhopH3 and MSP1. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Prediction of merozoite surface protein 1 and apical membrane antigen 1 vaccine efficacies against Plasmodium chabaudi malaria based on prechallenge antibody responses.

PubMed

Lynch, Michelle M; Cernetich-Ott, Amy; Weidanz, William P; Burns, James M

2009-03-01

For the development of blood-stage malaria vaccines, there is a clear need to establish in vitro measures of the antibody-mediated and the cell-mediated immune responses that correlate with protection. In this study, we focused on establishing correlates of antibody-mediated immunity induced by immunization with apical membrane antigen 1 (AMA1) and merozoite surface protein 1(42) (MSP1(42)) subunit vaccines. To do so, we exploited the Plasmodium chabaudi rodent model, with which we can immunize animals with both protective and nonprotective vaccine formulations and allow the parasitemia in the challenged animals to peak. Vaccine formulations were varied with regard to the antigen dose, the antigen conformation, and the adjuvant used. Prechallenge antibody responses were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and were tested for a correlation with protection against nonlethal P. chabaudi malaria, as measured by a reduction in the peak level of parasitemia. The analysis showed that neither the isotype profile nor the avidity of vaccine-induced antibodies correlated with protective efficacy. However, high titers of antibodies directed against conformation-independent epitopes were associated with poor vaccine performance and may limit the effectiveness of protective antibodies that recognize conformation-dependent epitopes. We were able to predict the efficacies of the P. chabaudi AMA1 (PcAMA1) and P. chabaudi MSP1(42) (PcMSP1(42)) vaccines only when the prechallenge antibody titers to both refolded and reduced/alkylated antigens were considered in combination. The relative importance of these two measures of vaccine-induced responses as predictors of protection differed somewhat for the PcAMA1 and the PcMSP1(42) vaccines, a finding confirmed in our final immunization and challenge study. A similar approach to the evaluation of vaccine-induced antibody responses may be useful during clinical trials of Plasmodium falciparum AMA1 and MSP1(42) vaccines.

Prediction of Merozoite Surface Protein 1 and Apical Membrane Antigen 1 Vaccine Efficacies against Plasmodium chabaudi Malaria Based on Prechallenge Antibody Responses▿

PubMed Central

Lynch, Michelle M.; Cernetich-Ott, Amy; Weidanz, William P.; Burns, James M.

2009-01-01

For the development of blood-stage malaria vaccines, there is a clear need to establish in vitro measures of the antibody-mediated and the cell-mediated immune responses that correlate with protection. In this study, we focused on establishing correlates of antibody-mediated immunity induced by immunization with apical membrane antigen 1 (AMA1) and merozoite surface protein 142 (MSP142) subunit vaccines. To do so, we exploited the Plasmodium chabaudi rodent model, with which we can immunize animals with both protective and nonprotective vaccine formulations and allow the parasitemia in the challenged animals to peak. Vaccine formulations were varied with regard to the antigen dose, the antigen conformation, and the adjuvant used. Prechallenge antibody responses were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and were tested for a correlation with protection against nonlethal P. chabaudi malaria, as measured by a reduction in the peak level of parasitemia. The analysis showed that neither the isotype profile nor the avidity of vaccine-induced antibodies correlated with protective efficacy. However, high titers of antibodies directed against conformation-independent epitopes were associated with poor vaccine performance and may limit the effectiveness of protective antibodies that recognize conformation-dependent epitopes. We were able to predict the efficacies of the P. chabaudi AMA1 (PcAMA1) and P. chabaudi MSP142 (PcMSP142) vaccines only when the prechallenge antibody titers to both refolded and reduced/alkylated antigens were considered in combination. The relative importance of these two measures of vaccine-induced responses as predictors of protection differed somewhat for the PcAMA1 and the PcMSP142 vaccines, a finding confirmed in our final immunization and challenge study. A similar approach to the evaluation of vaccine-induced antibody responses may be useful during clinical trials of Plasmodium falciparum AMA1 and MSP142 vaccines. PMID:19116303

Effect of informal employment on the relationship between psychosocial work risk factors and musculoskeletal pain in Central American workers.

PubMed

Gimeno Ruiz de Porras, David; Rojas Garbanzo, Marianela; Aragón, Aurora; Carmenate-Milián, Lino; Benavides, Fernando G

2017-09-01

The constant increase on the psychosocial demands experienced at work seems to contribute to the increase in health problems such as musculoskeletal pain (MSP). This association may be especially important in low-income and middle-income countries, where there is a large proportion of informal workers among whom there is little research. We analysed the association between psychosocial work risk factors and MSP among formal and informal workers using the First Central American Survey of Working Conditions and Health. This is a representative sample (n=12 024) of the economically active population of the six Spanish-speaking countries of Central America. Prevalence ratios (PR) and corresponding 95% CIs from Poisson regression models were used to estimate the association between psychosocial work risk factors and the MSP. Compared with formal workers, informal workers reported higher prevalence of MPS in the body regions analysed (ie, cervicodorsal, lumbosacral, upper extremities) and higher exposure to psychosocial work risk factors. However, on the whole, the associations between the exposure to psychosocial work risk factors and the prevalence of MSP were similar for both formal and informal workers. Only the association between exposure to high demands and MSP in the upper extremities was higher (p=0.012) among formal (PR=1.69, 95% CI 1.46 to 1.96) than among informal workers (PR=1.40; 95% CI 1.30 to 1.51). Exposure to adverse levels of psychosocial work risk factors is associated with higher prevalence of MPS among both formal and informal workers. However, the role of employment informality in this association is complex and requires further examination. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Context Dependent Effects of Chimeric Peptide Morpholino Conjugates Contribute to Dystrophin Exon-skipping Efficiency.

PubMed

Yin, Haifang; Boisguerin, Prisca; Moulton, Hong M; Betts, Corinne; Seow, Yiqi; Boutilier, Jordan; Wang, Qingsong; Walsh, Anthony; Lebleu, Bernard; Wood, Matthew Ja

2013-09-24

We have recently reported that cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) and novel chimeric peptides containing CPP (referred as B peptide) and muscle-targeting peptide (referred as MSP) motifs significantly improve the systemic exon-skipping activity of morpholino phosphorodiamidate oligomers (PMOs) in dystrophin-deficient mdx mice. In the present study, the general mechanistic significance of the chimeric peptide configuration on the activity and tissue uptake of peptide conjugated PMOs in vivo was investigated. Four additional chimeric peptide-PMO conjugates including newly identified peptide 9 (B-9-PMO and 9-B-PMO) and control peptide 3 (B-3-PMO and 3-B-PMO) were tested in mdx mice. Immunohistochemical staining, RT-PCR and western blot results indicated that B-9-PMO induced significantly higher level of exon skipping and dystrophin restoration than its counterpart (9-B-PMO), further corroborating the notion that the activity of chimeric peptide-PMO conjugates is dependent on relative position of the tissue-targeting peptide motif within the chimeric peptide with respect to PMOs. Subsequent mechanistic studies showed that enhanced cellular uptake of B-MSP-PMO into muscle cells leads to increased exon-skipping activity in comparison with MSP-B-PMO. Surprisingly, further evidence showed that the uptake of chimeric peptide-PMO conjugates of both orientations (B-MSP-PMO and MSP-B-PMO) was ATP- and temperature-dependent and also partially mediated by heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG), indicating that endocytosis is likely the main uptake pathway for both chimeric peptide-PMO conjugates. Collectively, our data demonstrate that peptide orientation in chimeric peptides is an important parameter that determines cellular uptake and activity when conjugated directly to oligonucleotides. These observations provide insight into the design of improved cell targeting compounds for future therapeutics studies.Molecular Therapy-Nucleic Acids (2013) 2, e124; doi:10.1038/mtna.2013.51; published online 24 September 2013.

Acute kidney injury in a child: A case of Munchausen syndrome by proxy.

PubMed

Mantan, Mukta; Dhingra, Dhulika; Gupta, Aditi; Sethi, Gulshan Rai

2015-11-01

Renal and urologic problems in pediatric condition falsification (PCF) or Munchausen by proxy (MSP) can result in serious diagnostic dilemma. Symptoms of hematuria, pyuria and recurrent urinary tract infections have occasionally been described. However, MSP presenting as azotemia has not been previously reported. We describe the case of an unfortunate boy who had to undergo unnecessary hemodialysis for persistent hyperkalemia and azotemia before a final diagnosis of the falsification of investigations by the parents was made.

FAST's Discovery of a New Millisecond Pulsar (MSP) toward the Fermi-LAT unassociated source 3FGL J0318.1+0252

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Pei; Li, Di; Zhu, Weiwei; Zhang, Chengmin; Yan, Jun; Hou, Xian; Clark, Colin J.; Saz Parkinson, Pablo M.; Michelson, Peter F.; Ferrara, Elizabeth C.; Thompson, David J.; Smith, David A.; Ray, Paul S.; Kerr, Matthew; Shen, Zhiqiang; Wang, Na; Fermi-LAT Collaboration

2018-04-01

The Five hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope (FAST), operated by the National Astronomical Observatories, Chinese Academy of Sciences, has discovered a radio millisecond pulsar (MSP) coincident with the unassociated gamma-ray source 3FGL J0318.1+0252 (Acero et al. 2015 ApJS, 218, 23), also known as FL8Y J0318.2+0254 in the recently released Fermi Large Area Telescope (LAT) 8-year Point Source List (FL8Y).

The elevated temperature mechanical properties of silicon nitride/boron nitride fibrous monoliths

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trice, Rodney Wayne

A unique, all-ceramic material capable of non-brittle fracture via crack deflection has been characterized from 25sp°C through 1400sp°C. This material, called fibrous monoliths (FMs), was comprised of unidirectionally aligned 250 mum diameter cells of silicon nitride surrounded by 10 mum thick cell boundaries of boron nitride. Six weight percent yttria and two weight percent alumina were added to the silicon nitride to aid in densification. TEM experiments revealed that the sintering aids used to densify the silicon nitride cells were migrating into the boron nitride cell boundary during hot-pressing and that a fine network of micro-cracks existed between basal planes of boron nitride. Elevated temperature four point bending tests were performed on fibrous monolith ceramics from room temperature through 1400sp°C. Peak strengths of FMs averaged 510 MPa for specimens tested at room temperature through 176 MPa at 1400sp°C. Work of fractures ranged from 7300 J/msp2 to 3200 J/msp2 under the same temperature conditions. The interfacial fracture energy of boron nitride, GammasbBN, as a function of temperature has been determined using the Charalambides method. The fracture energy of boron nitride is approximately 40 J/msp2 and remained constant from 25sp°C through 950sp°C. A sharp increase in GammasbBN, to about 60 J/msp2, was observed at 1000sp°C-1050sp°C. This increase in GammasbBN was attributed to interactions of the crack tip with the cell boundary glassy phase. Subsequent measurements at 1075sp°C indicated a marked decrease in GammasbBN to near 40 J/msp2 before plateauing at 17-20 J/msp2 in the 1200sp°C-1300sp°C regime. The Mode I fracture toughness of silicon nitride was also determined using the single edge precracked beam method as a function of temperature. The He and Hutchinson model relating crack deflection at an interface to the Dundurs' parameter was applied to the current data set using the temperature dependent fracture energies of the boron nitride and the silicon nitride. A more refractory fibrous monolith was fabricated in an effort to extend the high temperature properties of SN/BN fibrous monoliths. Only 4 wt.% yttria was added to the silicon nitride to aid in densification. The presence of residual carbon following binder burnout was proposed to be responsible for the formation of melilite, a phase known to undergo severe oxidation between 900sp°C-1100sp°C. When residual carbon was removed prior to hot-pressing with a post-binder burnout heat treatment at 400sp°C in air this phase was not present. A room temperature strength of 553 MPa and a work of fracture of 6700 J/msp2 was observed. A strength of 293 MPa was measured at 1400sp°C.

Analyse du processus de production de l'analphabetisme a travers le discours des analphabetes adultes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goffinet, Sylvie-Anne

1987-06-01

The research undertaken by `Lire et Ecrire' (`Reading and Writing') commissioned by the European Community Commission broaches the situation of illiteracy in French-speaking Belgium, France, the Netherlands, the Federal Republic of Germany and the United Kingdom. The research is based on operational networks at a national level and describes the methodology which is both quantitative and qualitative with a large importance accorded to the subjective view of the illiterates themselves. A series of factors (historical, geographical, socio-familial, medical, and `school-integrational') resulting from the quantitative analysis converge into one main subjective factor: the feeling of rejection. The qualitative analysis reveals that the underlying reasons for the school dropout is a discriminatory school system (both at the level of learning and at a social level) and also a socio-familial milieu which is in a cultural conflict on a threefold level concerning work, leisure and knowledge. Children reproduce these relations to work, leisure and knowledge, whereas the parents, because of the cultural gap which separates them from school, have no hold over their children's schooling. The article closes with a description of trends of action aiming at preventing illiteracy at school. The proposals indicate a new understanding which would allow the child-school-family relations to be transformed by the appropriation of the knowledge, abilities and power made accessible through the written word.

Evolution of genetic polymorphisms of Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein (PfMSP) in Thailand.

PubMed

Kuesap, Jiraporn; Chaijaroenkul, Wanna; Ketprathum, Kanchanok; Tattiyapong, Puntanat; Na-Bangchang, Kesara

2014-02-01

Plasmodium falciparum malaria is a major public health problem in Thailand due to the emergence of multidrug resistance. The understanding of genetic diversity of malaria parasites is essential for developing effective drugs and vaccines. The genetic diversity of the merozoite surface protein-1 (PfMSP-1) and merozoite surface protein-2 (PfMSP-2) genes was investigated in a total of 145 P. falciparum isolates collected from Mae Sot District, Tak Province, Thailand during 3 different periods (1997-1999, 2005-2007, and 2009-2010). Analysis of genetic polymorphisms was performed to track the evolution of genetic change of P. falciparum using PCR. Both individual genes and their combination patterns showed marked genetic diversity during the 3 study periods. The results strongly support that P. falciparum isolates in Thailand are markedly diverse and patterns changed with time. These 2 polymorphic genes could be used as molecular markers to detect multiple clone infections and differentiate recrudescence from reinfection in P. falciparum isolates in Thailand.

Polymorphism at the merozoite surface protein-3alpha locus of Plasmodium vivax: global and local diversity.

PubMed

Bruce, M C; Galinski, M R; Barnwell, J W; Snounou, G; Day, K P

1999-10-01

Allelic diversity at the Plasmodium vivax merozoite surface protein-3alpha (PvMsp-3alpha) locus was investigated using a combined polymerase chain reaction/restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR/RFLP) protocol. Symptomatic patient isolates from global geographic origins showed a high level of polymorphism at the nucleotide level. These samples were used to validate the sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility of the PCR/RFLP method. It was then used to investigate PvMsp3alpha diversity in field samples from children living in a single village in a malaria-endemic region of Papua New Guinea, with the aim of assessing the usefulness of this locus as an epidemiologic marker of P. vivax infections. Eleven PvMsp-3alpha alleles were distinguishable in 16 samples with single infections, revealing extensive parasite polymorphism within this restricted area. Multiple infections were easily detected and accounted for 5 (23%) of 22 positive samples. Pairs of samples from individual children provided preliminary evidence for high turnover of P. vivax populations.

IDLN-MSP: Idiolocal normalization of real-time methylation-specific PCR for genetic imbalanced DNA specimens.

PubMed

Santourlidis, Simeon; Ghanjati, Foued; Beermann, Agnes; Hermanns, Thomas; Poyet, Cédric

2016-02-01

Sensitive, accurate, and reliable measurements of tumor cell-specific DNA methylation changes are of fundamental importance in cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring. Real-time methylation-specific PCR (MSP) using intercalating dyes is an established method of choice for this purpose. Here we present a simple but crucial adaptation of this widely applied method that overcomes a major obstacle: genetic abnormalities in the DNA samples, such as aneuploidy or copy number variations, that could result in inaccurate results due to improper normalization if the copy numbers of the target and reference sequences are not the same. In our idiolocal normalization (IDLN) method, the locus for the normalizing, methylation-independent reference amplification is chosen close to the locus of the methylation-dependent target amplification. This ensures that the copy numbers of both the target and reference sequences will be identical in most cases if they are close enough to each other, resulting in accurate normalization and reliable comparative measurements of DNA methylation in clinical samples when using real-time MSP.

The Meyerhoff Way: How the Meyerhoff Scholarship Program Helps Black Students Succeed in the Sciences

PubMed Central

Stolle-McAllister, Kathy; Sto. Domingo, Mariano R.; Carrillo, Amy

2011-01-01

The Meyerhoff Scholarship Program (MSP) is widely recognized for its comprehensive approach of integrating students into the science community. The supports provided by the program aim to develop students, primarily Blacks, into scientists by offering them academic, social, and professional opportunities to achieve their academic and career goals. The current study allowed for a rich understanding of the perceptions of current Meyerhoff students and Meyerhoff alumni about how the program works. Three groups of MSP students were included in the study: 1) new Meyerhoff students participating in Summer Bridge (n=45), 2) currently enrolled Meyerhoff students (n=92), and 3) graduates of the MSP who were currently enrolled in STEM graduate studies or had completed an advanced STEM degree (n=19). Students described the importance of several key aspects of the Meyerhoff Scholars Program: financial support, the Summer Bridge Program, formation of Meyerhoff identity, belonging to the Meyerhoff family, and developing networks - all of which serve to integrate students both academically and socially. PMID:21850153

Principes et réalisation d'une chaîne laser femtoseconde haute intensité basée sur le saphir dopé au titane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Le Blanc, Catherine

We present the initial study, the realisation and the characterisation of a high intensity femtosecond laser chain. This chain is able to produce intensities higher than 10^18 W/cm2 on target, at a 10 Hertz repetition rate. We present first fondamentals principles of chirped pulse propagation mechanisms: group velocity dispersion, self-phase modulation, self-focusing, and gain saturation. Then after describing the spectroscopic properties of titanium doped sapphire (Ti:S), we discuss near infrared femtosecond oscillators able to be amplified in Ti:S medium, and describe our home made Kerr Lens mode locked femtosecond Ti:S oscillator. The high intensity laser chain is based on the Chirped Pulse Amplification concept, which consists in stretching the pulse before its amplification in order to avoid non-linear effects such self-focusing or breakdown, and then recompressing it to its initial pulse duration. We have developed two compact and efficient multipass amplifiers for femtosecond chirped pulse amplification. With only two of these devices, we obtain an amplification factor of 10^8, which corresponds to a peak power of ˜ 0.5 terawatt after compression. We analyse in details the performances of this system and its advantages in terms of its high quantum yield (0.3), flexibility, and optical quality. Some observed spectral distortion on chirped pulses is simply explained by a gain saturation model. High dynamic pulse temporal control is crucial for interaction experiments. For this reason, we have developed a third order sampling autocorrelator. This device is able to measure 100 fs pulses with more than 8 orders of magnitude. I compare our obtained performances to other femtosecond systems and I analyse the best way to increase the energy, reduce the pulse duration and optimise focusing in order to reach the 10^19 W/cm2 regime. Ce mémoire présente les études préliminaires, la réalisation et la caractérisation d'une chaîne dite "de haute intensité" en régime femtosecondes. Cette installation est capable de produire sur cible des intensités supérieures à 10^18 W/cm2 à une récurrence de 10 tirs par seconde. Nous présentons tout d'abord les principes fondamentaux de la propagation d'impulsions étirées dans un milieu amplificateur en mettant en évidence les principaux mécanismes mis en jeu dans ce processus : la dispersion de vitesse de groupe, l'automodulation de phase, l'autofocalisation et la saturation du gain. Une analyse des différentes possibilités quant au choix de la source initiale capable d'émettre des impulsions de durée femtoseconde dans le domaine du proche infrarouge est réalisée après la présentation des caractéristiques spectroscopiques du saphir dopé au titane. Sont en particulier décrits en détail le principe et le fonctionnement de l'oscillateur au saphir dopé au titane à autoblocage de modes que nous avons construit à cet effet. L'amplification jusqu'aux puissances de l'ordre du terawatt repose sur le concept "CPA" d'amplification d'impulsions à dérive de fréquence. Nous explorons ici la voie des amplificateurs à multipassages suivant des configurations déjà développées pour les amplificateurs à colorants. Une attention particulière a été portée sur les méthodes de réglage, la fiabilité, la stabilité et la qualité du profil spatial du faisceau. D'autre part, une modélisation rend parfaitement compte des effets de saturation dans les amplificateurs. Les impulsions obtenues après compression ont une énergie de l'ordre de 60 mJ et une durée de l'ordre de 130 fs. La partie suivante est consacrée à une étude des problèmes d'étirement et de recompression pour tenter d'expliquer les raisons de cette recompression imparfaite. Finalement, un paramètre encore plus crucial pour la physique de l'interaction sur cible solide sans création d'un préplasma est le contraste des impulsions. Nous décrivons donc l'appareil de mesure capable d'effectuer des autocorrélations avec une dynamique dépassant 10^8 permettant d'observer un éventuel pied d'énergie à ce niveau. Les problèmes de propagation d'impulsions lumineuses ultra intenses sont ensuite abordés, pour optimiser la focalisation du faisceau jusqu'à des intensités de 10^18 W/cm2. Dans une discussion finale, les performances de cette installation sont comparées à celles des systèmes développés par ailleurs et nous réalisons une étude plus prospective des étapes à mettre en oeuvre afin d'augmenter l'énergie amplifiée, diminuer la durée des impulsions et optimiser la focalisation, le but à atteindre étant le régime des 10^19 W/cm2.

Cytoadherence and Genotype of Plasmodium falciparum Strains from Symptomatic Children in Franceville, Southeastern Gabon

PubMed Central

Touré, Fousseyni S.; Ouwe-Missi-Oukem-Boyer, Odile; Mezui-Me-Ndong, Jérôme; Ndong-Atome, Guy Roger; Bisvigou, Ulrick; Mazier, Dominique; Bisser, Sylvie

2007-01-01

Background: Plasmodium falciparum causes severe clinical manifestations by sequestering parasitized red blood cells (PRBC) in the microvasculature of major organs such as the brain. This sequestration results from PRBC adherence to vascular endothelial cells via erythrocyte membrane protein 1, a variant parasite surface antigen. Objective: To determine whether P. falciparum multiple genotype infection (MGI) is associated with stronger PRBC cytoadherence and greater clinical severity. Methods: Nested polymerase chain reaction was used to genotype P. falciparum isolates from symptomatic children and to distinguish between single genotype infection (SGI) and MGI. PRBC cytoadhesion was studied with cultured human lung endothelial cells. Results: Analysis of two highly polymorphic regions of the merozoite surface antigen (MSP)-1 and MSP-2 genes and a dimorphic region of the erythrocyte binding antigen-175 gene showed that 21.4% and 78.6% of the 42 children had SGI and MGI, respectively. It also showed that 37 (89%) of the 42 PRBC samples expressed MSP-1 allelic family K1. Cytoadherence values ranged from 58 to 1811 PRBC/mm2 of human lung endothelial cells monolayer in SGI and from 5 to 5744 PRBC/mm2 in MGI. MGI was not associated with higher cytoadherence values or with more severe malaria. Conclusions: These results suggested that infection of the same individual by multiple clones of P. falciparum does not significantly influence PRBC cytoadherence or disease severity and confirmed the predominance of the MSP-1 K1 genotype in southeastern Gabon. PMID:17607045

Naturally acquired immune responses to malaria vaccine candidate antigens MSP3 and GLURP in Guahibo and Piaroa indigenous communities of the Venezuelan Amazon.

PubMed

Baumann, Andreas; Magris, Magda M; Urbaez, Marie-Luz; Vivas-Martinez, Sarai; Durán, Rommy; Nieves, Tahidid; Esen, Meral; Mordmüller, Benjamin G; Theisen, Michael; Avilan, Luisana; Metzger, Wolfram G

2012-02-15

Malaria transmission in most of Latin America can be considered as controlled. In such a scenario, parameters of baseline immunity to malaria antigens are of specific interest with respect to future malaria eradication efforts. A cross-sectional study was carried out in two indigenous population groups in Amazonas/Venezuela. Data from the regional malaria documentation system were extracted and participants from the ethnic groups of the Guahibo (n = 180) and Piaroa (n = 295) were investigated for the presence of Plasmodium parasites and naturally acquired antibodies to Plasmodium falciparum antigens in serum. The GMZ2 vaccine candidate proteins MSP3 and GLURP were chosen as serological markers. The incidence of P. falciparum in both communities was found to be less than 2%, and none of the participants harboured P. falciparum at the time of the cross-sectional. Nearly a quarter of the participants (111/475; 23,4%) had positive antibody titres to at least one of the antigens. 53/475 participants (11.2%) were positive for MSP3, and 93/475 participants (19.6%) were positive for GLURP. High positive responses were detected in 36/475 participants (7.6%) and 61/475 participants (12.8%) for MSP3 and GLURP, respectively. Guahibo participants had significantly higher antibody titres than Piaroa participants. Considering the low incidence of P. falciparum, submicroscopical infections may explain the comparatively high anti-P. falciparum antibody concentrations.

Millisecond pulsars and the Galactic Center gamma-ray excess: the importance of luminosity function and secondary emission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petrović, Jovana; Serpico, Pasquale D.; Zaharijas, Gabrijela

2015-02-01

Several groups of authors have analyzed Fermi LAT data in a region around the Galactic Center finding an unaccounted gamma-ray excess over diffuse backgrounds in the GeV energy range. It has been argued that it is difficult or even impossible to explain this diffuse emission by the leading astrophysical candidates—millisecond pulsars (MSPs). Here we provide a new estimate of the contribution to the excess by a population of yet unresolved MSP located in the bulge of the Milky Way. We simulate this population with the GALPLOT package by adopting a parametric approach, with the range of free parameters gauged on the MSP characteristics reported by the second pulsar catalogue (2PC). We find that the conclusions strongly depend on the details of the MSP luminosity function (in particular, its high luminosity end) and other explicit or tacit assumptions on the MSP statistical properties, which we discuss. Notably, for the first time we study the importance of the possible secondary emission of the MSPs in the Galactic Center, i.e. the emission via inverse Compton losses of electrons injected in the interstellar medium. Differently from a majority of other authors, we find that within current uncertainties a large if not dominant contribution of MSPs to the excess cannot be excluded. We also show that the sensitivities of future instruments or possibly already of the latest LAT data analysis (Pass 8) provide good perspectives to test this scenario by resolving a significant number of MSPs.

(GTG)5 MSP-PCR fingerprinting as a technique for discrimination of wine associated yeasts?

PubMed

Ramírez-Castrillón, Mauricio; Mendes, Sandra Denise Camargo; Inostroza-Ponta, Mario; Valente, Patricia

2014-01-01

In microbiology, identification of all isolates by sequencing is still unfeasible in small research laboratories. Therefore, many yeast diversity studies follow a screening procedure consisting of clustering the yeast isolates using MSP-PCR fingerprinting, followed by identification of one or a few selected representatives of each cluster by sequencing. Although this procedure has been widely applied in the literature, it has not been properly validated. We evaluated a standardized protocol using MSP-PCR fingerprinting with the primers (GTG)5 and M13 for the discrimination of wine associated yeasts in South Brazil. Two datasets were used: yeasts isolated from bottled wines and vineyard environments. We compared the discriminatory power of both primers in a subset of 16 strains, choosing the primer (GTG)5 for further evaluation. Afterwards, we applied this technique to 245 strains, and compared the results with the identification obtained by partial sequencing of the LSU rRNA gene, considered as the gold standard. An array matrix was constructed for each dataset and used as input for clustering with two methods (hierarchical dendrograms and QAPGrid layout). For both yeast datasets, unrelated species were clustered in the same group. The sensitivity score of (GTG)5 MSP-PCR fingerprinting was high, but specificity was low. As a conclusion, the yeast diversity inferred in several previous studies may have been underestimated and some isolates were probably misidentified due to the compliance to this screening procedure.

(GTG)5 MSP-PCR Fingerprinting as a Technique for Discrimination of Wine Associated Yeasts?

PubMed Central

Inostroza-Ponta, Mario; Valente, Patricia

2014-01-01

In microbiology, identification of all isolates by sequencing is still unfeasible in small research laboratories. Therefore, many yeast diversity studies follow a screening procedure consisting of clustering the yeast isolates using MSP-PCR fingerprinting, followed by identification of one or a few selected representatives of each cluster by sequencing. Although this procedure has been widely applied in the literature, it has not been properly validated. We evaluated a standardized protocol using MSP-PCR fingerprinting with the primers (GTG)5 and M13 for the discrimination of wine associated yeasts in South Brazil. Two datasets were used: yeasts isolated from bottled wines and vineyard environments. We compared the discriminatory power of both primers in a subset of 16 strains, choosing the primer (GTG)5 for further evaluation. Afterwards, we applied this technique to 245 strains, and compared the results with the identification obtained by partial sequencing of the LSU rRNA gene, considered as the gold standard. An array matrix was constructed for each dataset and used as input for clustering with two methods (hierarchical dendrograms and QAPGrid layout). For both yeast datasets, unrelated species were clustered in the same group. The sensitivity score of (GTG)5 MSP-PCR fingerprinting was high, but specificity was low. As a conclusion, the yeast diversity inferred in several previous studies may have been underestimated and some isolates were probably misidentified due to the compliance to this screening procedure. PMID:25171185

An innovative approach to addressing childhood obesity: a knowledge-based infrastructure for supporting multi-stakeholder partnership decision-making in Quebec, Canada.

PubMed

Addy, Nii Antiaye; Shaban-Nejad, Arash; Buckeridge, David L; Dubé, Laurette

2015-01-23

Multi-stakeholder partnerships (MSPs) have become a widespread means for deploying policies in a whole of society strategy to address the complex problem of childhood obesity. However, decision-making in MSPs is fraught with challenges, as decision-makers are faced with complexity, and have to reconcile disparate conceptualizations of knowledge across multiple sectors with diverse sets of indicators and data. These challenges can be addressed by supporting MSPs with innovative tools for obtaining, organizing and using data to inform decision-making. The purpose of this paper is to describe and analyze the development of a knowledge-based infrastructure to support MSP decision-making processes. The paper emerged from a study to define specifications for a knowledge-based infrastructure to provide decision support for community-level MSPs in the Canadian province of Quebec. As part of the study, a process assessment was conducted to understand the needs of communities as they collect, organize, and analyze data to make decisions about their priorities. The result of this process is a "portrait", which is an epidemiological profile of health and nutrition in their community. Portraits inform strategic planning and development of interventions, and are used to assess the impact of interventions. Our key findings indicate ambiguities and disagreement among MSP decision-makers regarding causal relationships between actions and outcomes, and the relevant data needed for making decisions. MSP decision-makers expressed a desire for easy-to-use tools that facilitate the collection, organization, synthesis, and analysis of data, to enable decision-making in a timely manner. Findings inform conceptual modeling and ontological analysis to capture the domain knowledge and specify relationships between actions and outcomes. This modeling and analysis provide the foundation for an ontology, encoded using OWL 2 Web Ontology Language. The ontology is developed to provide semantic support for the MSP process, defining objectives, strategies, actions, indicators, and data sources. In the future, software interacting with the ontology can facilitate interactive browsing by decision-makers in the MSP in the form of concepts, instances, relationships, and axioms. Our ontology also facilitates the integration and interpretation of community data, and can help in managing semantic interoperability between different knowledge sources. Future work will focus on defining specifications for the development of a database of indicators and an information system to help decision-makers to view, analyze and organize indicators for their community. This work should improve MSP decision-making in the development of interventions to address childhood obesity.

Development of novel acoustic wave biosensor platforms based on magnetostriction and fabrication of magnetostrictive nanowires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Suiqiong

There is an urgent need for biosensors that are able to detect and quantify the presence of a small amount of biological threat agents in a real-time manner. Acoustic wave (AW) devices, whose performance is defined by mass sensitivity (Sm) and merit quality factor (Q value), have been extensively studied as high performance biosensor platforms. However, current AW devices face some challenges in practical applications. In this research, two types of AW devices---magnetostrictive microcantilever (MSMC) and completely free-standing magnetostrictive particle (MSP)---were developed. The research consists of two parts: (1) Design and the feasibility study of MSMC and MSP based sensor technology; (2) Fabrication and characterization of micro/nano MSPs made of amorphous Fe-B alloy. Both MSMC and MSP based sensors are wireless/remote and work well in liquid, which makes the sensors good candidates for in-situ detection. The performance of MSMC was simulated and compared with the state of art AW devices: microcantilevers. The MSMC exhibits the following advantages: (1) remote/wireless driving and sensing; (2) ease of fabrication; (3) works well in liquid; (4) exhibits a high Q value (> 500 in air); (5) well suited for sensor array development. MSMCs in milli/micro sizes were fabricated and their performance was characterized in air and liquid. The experimental results confirm the advantages of MSMC mentioned above. The in situ detection of the yeast cells and Bacillus anthracis spores in water were performed using MSMC biosensors. MSPs in the shape of strip and bar were investigated. Strip-shape MSPs in milli/micro sizes were fabricated. The resonance behaviors of MSPs at the even and odd vibration modes were analyzed. MSP exhibits a Sm about 100 times greater, and a Q value about 10 times greater, than MCs. A multiple-sensor and a multiple-target approach were developed to further enhance the performance of MSP-based sensors. A unique methodology was created to detect the target species on the sensor surface at different locations by combining even and odd harmonic mode signals. As with other AW devices, a smaller size results in a higher Sm . To create micro/nano sized MSMC & MSP sensors, amorphous Fe-B thin films and nanowires were fabricated using electrochemical deposition. The microstructure, morphology, composition and magnetic properties of the fabricated nanowires were determined. It is found that the films and the nanowires are excellent candidates for developing micro/nano MSPs and MSMCs.

A relative quantitative Methylation-Sensitive Amplified Polymorphism (MSAP) method for the analysis of abiotic stress.

PubMed

Bednarek, Piotr T; Orłowska, Renata; Niedziela, Agnieszka

2017-04-21

We present a new methylation-sensitive amplified polymorphism (MSAP) approach for the evaluation of relative quantitative characteristics such as demethylation, de novo methylation, and preservation of methylation status of CCGG sequences, which are recognized by the isoschizomers HpaII and MspI. We applied the technique to analyze aluminum (Al)-tolerant and non-tolerant control and Al-stressed inbred triticale lines. The approach is based on detailed analysis of events affecting HpaII and MspI restriction sites in control and stressed samples, and takes advantage of molecular marker profiles generated by EcoRI/HpaII and EcoRI/MspI MSAP platforms. Five Al-tolerant and five non-tolerant triticale lines were exposed to aluminum stress using the physiologicaltest. Total genomic DNA was isolated from root tips of all tolerant and non-tolerant lines before and after Al stress following metAFLP and MSAP approaches. Based on codes reflecting events affecting cytosines within a given restriction site recognized by HpaII and MspI in control and stressed samples demethylation (DM), de novo methylation (DNM), preservation of methylated sites (MSP), and preservation of nonmethylatedsites (NMSP) were evaluated. MSAP profiles were used for Agglomerative hierarchicalclustering (AHC) based on Squared Euclidean distance and Ward's Agglomeration method whereas MSAP characteristics for ANOVA. Relative quantitative MSAP analysis revealed that both Al-tolerant and non-tolerant triticale lines subjected to Al stress underwent demethylation, with demethylation of CG predominating over CHG. The rate of de novo methylation in the CG context was ~3-fold lower than demethylation, whereas de novo methylation of CHG was observed only in Al-tolerant lines. Our relative quantitative MSAP approach, based on methylation events affecting cytosines within HpaII-MspI recognition sequences, was capable of quantifying de novo methylation, demethylation, methylation, and non-methylated status in control and stressed Al-tolerant and non-tolerant triticale inbred lines. The method could also be used to analyze methylation events affecting CG and CHG contexts, which were differentially methylated under Al stress. We cannot exclude that the methylation changes revealed among lines as well as between Al-tolerant and non-tolerant groups of lines were due to some experimental errors or that the number of lines was too small for ANOVA to prove the influence of Al stress. Nevertheless, we suspect that Al tolerance in triticale could be partly regulated by epigenetic factors acting at the level of DNA methylation. This method provides a valuable tool for studies of abiotic stresses in plants.

An Innovative Approach to Addressing Childhood Obesity: A Knowledge-Based Infrastructure for Supporting Multi-Stakeholder Partnership Decision-Making in Quebec, Canada

PubMed Central

Addy, Nii Antiaye; Shaban-Nejad, Arash; Buckeridge, David L.; Dubé, Laurette

2015-01-01

Multi-stakeholder partnerships (MSPs) have become a widespread means for deploying policies in a whole of society strategy to address the complex problem of childhood obesity. However, decision-making in MSPs is fraught with challenges, as decision-makers are faced with complexity, and have to reconcile disparate conceptualizations of knowledge across multiple sectors with diverse sets of indicators and data. These challenges can be addressed by supporting MSPs with innovative tools for obtaining, organizing and using data to inform decision-making. The purpose of this paper is to describe and analyze the development of a knowledge-based infrastructure to support MSP decision-making processes. The paper emerged from a study to define specifications for a knowledge-based infrastructure to provide decision support for community-level MSPs in the Canadian province of Quebec. As part of the study, a process assessment was conducted to understand the needs of communities as they collect, organize, and analyze data to make decisions about their priorities. The result of this process is a “portrait”, which is an epidemiological profile of health and nutrition in their community. Portraits inform strategic planning and development of interventions, and are used to assess the impact of interventions. Our key findings indicate ambiguities and disagreement among MSP decision-makers regarding causal relationships between actions and outcomes, and the relevant data needed for making decisions. MSP decision-makers expressed a desire for easy-to-use tools that facilitate the collection, organization, synthesis, and analysis of data, to enable decision-making in a timely manner. Findings inform conceptual modeling and ontological analysis to capture the domain knowledge and specify relationships between actions and outcomes. This modeling and analysis provide the foundation for an ontology, encoded using OWL 2 Web Ontology Language. The ontology is developed to provide semantic support for the MSP process, defining objectives, strategies, actions, indicators, and data sources. In the future, software interacting with the ontology can facilitate interactive browsing by decision-makers in the MSP in the form of concepts, instances, relationships, and axioms. Our ontology also facilitates the integration and interpretation of community data, and can help in managing semantic interoperability between different knowledge sources. Future work will focus on defining specifications for the development of a database of indicators and an information system to help decision-makers to view, analyze and organize indicators for their community. This work should improve MSP decision-making in the development of interventions to address childhood obesity. PMID:25625409

Reduction of solar vector magnetograph data using a microMSP array processor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kineke, Jack

1990-01-01

The processing of raw data obtained by the solar vector magnetograph at NASA-Marshall requires extensive arithmetic operations on large arrays of real numbers. The objectives of this summer faculty fellowship study are to: (1) learn the programming language of the MicroMSP Array Processor and adapt some existing data reduction routines to exploit its capabilities; and (2) identify other applications and/or existing programs which lend themselves to array processor utilization which can be developed by undergraduate student programmers under the provisions of project JOVE.

Hydrochemical evaluation of groundwater in the Blue Nile Basin, eastern Sudan, using conventional and multivariate techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hussein, Mohammed Tahir

Hydrochemical evaluation of groundwater systems can be carried out using conventional and multivariate techniques, namely cluster, factor analyses and others such as correspondence analysis. The main objective of this study is to investigate the groundwater quality in the Blue Nile basin of eastern Sudan, and to workout a hydrochemical evaluation for the aquifer system. Conventional methods and multivariate techniques were applied to achieve these goals. Two water-bearing layers exist in the study area: the Nubian Sandstone Formation and the Al-Atshan Formation. The Nubian aquifer is recharged mainly from the Blue Nile and Dinder Rivers through lateral subsurface flow and through direct rainfall in outcrop areas. The Al-Atshan aquifer receives water through underground flow from River Rahad and from rainfall infiltration. The prevailing hydrochemical processes are simple dissolution, mixing, partial ion exchange and ion exchange. Limited reverse ion exchange has been witnessed in the Nubian aquifer. Three factors control the overall mineralization and water quality of the Blue Nile Basin. The first factor includes high values of total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity, sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, sulphate and magnesium. The second factor includes calcium and pH. The third factor is due to fluoride concentration in the groundwater. The study highlights the descriptive capabilities of conventional and multivariate techniques as effective tools in groundwater quality evaluation. Une étude hydrochimique de systèmes aquifères a pu être réalisée au moyen des techniques conventionnelles et multidimensionnelles, telles que les analyses de cluster et factorielles, ainsi que d'autres comme l'analyse des correspondances. Le principal objectif de ce travail est d'étudier la qualité des eaux souterraines du bassin du Nil bleu au Soudan oriental, et de réaliser une évaluation hydrochimique du système aquifère. Des méthodes conventionnelles et des techniques multidimensionnelles ont été appliquées pour atteindre ces objectifs. Deux niveaux aquifères existent dans cette région, la formation des grès nubiens et la formation Al-Atshan. L'aquifère nubien est surtout rechargé par le Nil Bleu et la rivière Dinder grâce à des écoulements souterrains latéraux et par l'infiltration directe de la pluie sur les affleurements. L'aquifère Al-Atshan reçoit l'eau par un écoulement souterrain depuis la rivière Rahad et par infiltration de la pluie. Les processus hydrochimiques déterminants sont la simple dissolution, le mélange, l'échange ionique partiel et l'échange ionique. Un échange ionique inverse limité a été mis en évidence dans l'aquifère nubien. Trois facteurs contrôlent l'ensemble de la minéralisation et la qualité de l'eau du bassin du Nil Bleu. Le premier facteur rend compte des valeurs élevées de la minéralisation, de la conductivité électrique, du sodium, du potassium, des chlorures, des bicarbonates, des sulfates et du magnésium. Le second facteur rend compte du calcium et du pH. Le troisième facteur est lié à la concentration en fluorures des eaux souterraines. L'étude souligne les aptitudes descriptives des techniques conventionnelles et multidimensionnelles en tant qu'outils efficaces d'évaluation de la qualité des eaux souterraines. Resumen La evaluación hidroquímica de sistemas hidrogeológicos puede llevarse a cabo mediante técnicas convencionales y multivariadas, como las de agrupamiento (``cluster''), análisis factorial y otras, incluyendo el análisis de correspondencia. El objetivo principal de este estudio es investigar la calidad de las aguas subterráneas en la cuenca del Nilo Azul, al este de Sudán, y deducir la hidrogeoquímica del sistema acuífero. Se ha aplicado métodos convencionales y técnicas multivariadas para lograr dicho objetivo. Hay dos niveles acuíferos en la zona de estudio: la Formación Arenisca de Nubia y la Formación Al-Atshan. El acuífero de Nubia se recarga fundamentalmente desde los ríos Nilo Azul y Dinder, mediante flujo lateral subsuperficial y lluvia directa en afloramientos. El acuífero de Al-Atshan recibe agua de flujo subterráneo procedente del río Rahad y de lluvia directa. Los procesos hidroquímicos predominantes consisten en disolución, mezcla, intercambio iónico parcial e intercambio iónico el intercambio iónico inverso es limitado en el acuífero de Nubia. Tres factores controlan la mineralización y calidad de las aguas en la cuenca del Nilo Azul. El primer factor comporta valores elevados de sólidos disueltos totales, conductividad eléctrica, sodio, potasio, cloruro, bicarbonato, sulfato y magnesio. El segundo factor atañe al calcio y pH. El tercer factor es debido a la concentración de fluoruro en las aguas subterráneas. El estudio resalta las capacidades descriptivas de las técnicas convencionales y multivariadas como herramientas eficaces para evaluar la calidad de las aguas subterráneas.

Differences in ergonomic and workstation factors between computer office workers with and without reported musculoskeletal pain.

PubMed

Rodrigues, Mirela Sant'Ana; Leite, Raquel Descie Veraldi; Lelis, Cheila Maira; Chaves, Thaís Cristina

2017-01-01

Some studies have suggested a causal relationship between computer work and the development of musculoskeletal disorders. However, studies considering the use of specific tools to assess workplace ergonomics and psychosocial factors in computer office workers with and without reported musculoskeletal pain are scarce. The aim of this study was to compare the ergonomic, physical, and psychosocial factors in computer office workers with and without reported musculoskeletal pain (MSP). Thirty-five computer office workers (aged 18-55 years) participated in the study. The following evaluations were completed: Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), Rapid Office Strain Assessment (ROSA), and Maastricht Upper Extremity Questionnaire revised Brazilian Portuguese version (MUEQ-Br revised). Student t-tests were used to make comparisons between groups. The computer office workers were divided into two groups: workers with reported MSP (WMSP, n = 17) and workers without positive report (WOMSP, n = 18). Those in the WMSP group showed significantly greater mean values in the total ROSA score (WMSP: 6.71 [CI95% :6.20-7.21] and WOMSP: 5.88 [CI95% :5.37-6.39], p = 0.01). The WMSP group also showed higher scores in the chair section of the ROSA, workstation of MUEQ-Br revised, and in the upper limb RULA score. The chair height and armrest sections from ROSA showed the higher mean values in workers WMSP compared to workers WOMSP. A positive moderate correlation was observed between ROSA and RULA total scores (R = 0.63, p < 0.001). Our results demonstrated that computer office workers who reported MSP had worse ergonomics indexes for chair workstation and worse physical risk related to upper limb (RULA upper limb section) than workers without pain. However, there were no observed differences in workers with and without MSP regarding work-related psychosocial factors. The results suggest that inadequate workstation conditions, specifically the chair height, arm and back rest, are linked to improper upper limb postures and that these factors are contributing to MSP in computer office workers.

Plasmodium diversity in non-malaria individuals from the Bioko Island in Equatorial Guinea (West Central-Africa)

PubMed Central

Guerra-Neira, Ana; Rubio, José M; Royo, Jesús Roche; Ortega, Jorge Cano; Auñón, Antonio Sarrión; Diaz, Pedro Berzosa; LLanes, Agustín Benito

2006-01-01

Background In this paper we analyse the Plasmodium sp. prevalence in three villages with different isolation status on the island of Bioko (Equatorial Guinea) where malaria is a hyper-endemic disease. We also describe the genetic diversity of P. falciparum, using several plasmodia proteins as markers which show a high degree of polymorphism (MSP-1 and MSP-2). The results obtained from three different populations are compared in order to establish the impact of human movements and interventions. Methods Plasmodium sp. were analysed in three villages on Bioko Island (Equatorial Guinea), one of which (Southern) is isolated by geographical barriers. The semi-nested multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique was used to determine the prevalence of the four human plasmodia species. The genotyping and frequency of P. falciparum populations were determined by PCR assay target polymorphism regions of the merozoite surface proteins 1 and 2 genes (MSP-1 and MSP-2). Results The data obtained show that there are no differences in plasmodia population flow between the Northwest and Eastern regions as regards the prevalence of the different Plasmodium species. The Southern population, on the other hand, shows a minor presence of P. malariae and a higher prevalence of P. ovale, suggesting some kind of transmission isolated from the other two. The P. falciparum genotyping in the different regions points to a considerable allelic diversity in the parasite population on Bioko Island, although this is somewhat higher in the Southern region than the others. There was a correlation between parasitaemia levels and the age of the individual with the multiplicity of infection (MOI). Conclusion Results could be explained by the selection of particular MSP alleles. This would tend to limit diversity in the parasite population and leading up to the extinction of rare alleles. On the other hand, the parasite population in the isolated village has less outside influence and the diversity of P. falciparum is maintained higher. The knowledge of parasite populations and their relationships is necessary to study their implications for control intervention. PMID:16784527

Mixed messages: wild female bonobos show high variability in the timing of ovulation in relation to sexual swelling patterns.

PubMed

Douglas, Pamela Heidi; Hohmann, Gottfried; Murtagh, Róisín; Thiessen-Bock, Robyn; Deschner, Tobias

2016-06-30

The evolution of primate sexual swellings and their influence on mating strategies have captivated the interest of biologists for over a century. Across the primate order, variability in the timing of ovulation with respect to females' sexual swelling patterns differs greatly. Since sexual swellings typically function as signals of female fecundity, the temporal relation between ovulation and sexual swellings can impact the ability of males to pinpoint ovulation and thereby affect male mating strategies. Here, we used endocrine parameters to detect ovulation and examined the temporal relation between the maximum swelling phase (MSP) and ovulation in wild female bonobos (Pan paniscus). Data were collected at the Luikotale field site, Democratic Republic of Congo, spanning 36 months. Observational data from 13 females were used to characterise female swelling cycles (N = 70). Furthermore, we measured urinary oestrone and pregnanediol using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, and used pregnanediol to determine the timing of ovulation in 34 cycles (N = 9 females). We found that the duration of females' MSP was highly variable, ranging from 1 to 31 days. Timing of ovulation varied considerably in relation to the onset of the MSP, resulting in a very low day-specific probability of ovulation and fecundity across female cycles. Ovulation occurred during the MSP in only 52.9 % of the analysed swelling cycles, and females showed regular sexual swelling patterns in N = 8 swelling cycles where ovulation did not occur. These findings reveal that sexual swellings of bonobos are less reliable indicators of ovulation compared to other species of primates. Female bonobos show unusual variability in the duration of the MSP and in the timing of ovulation relative to the sexual swelling signal. These data are important for understanding the evolution of sexual signals, how they influence male and female mating strategies, and how decoupling visual signals of fecundity from the periovulatory period may affect intersexual conflict. By prolonging the period during which males would need to mate guard females to ascertain paternity, the temporal variability of this signal may constrain mate-guarding efforts by male bonobos.

Impact of Moving From a Widespread to Multisite Pain Definition on Other Fibromyalgia Symptoms.

PubMed

Dean, Linda E; Arnold, Lesley; Crofford, Leslie; Bennett, Robert; Goldenberg, Don; Fitzcharles, Mary-Ann; Paiva, Eduardo S; Staud, Roland; Clauw, Dan; Sarzi-Puttini, Piercarlo; Jones, Gareth T; Ayorinde, Abimbola; Flüß, Elisa; Beasley, Marcus; Macfarlane, Gary J

2017-12-01

To investigate whether associations between pain and the additional symptoms associated with fibromyalgia are different in persons with chronic widespread pain (CWP) compared to multisite pain (MSP), with or without joint areas. Six studies were used: 1958 British birth cohort, Epidemiology of Functional Disorders, Kid Low Back Pain, Managing Unexplained Symptoms (Chronic Widespread Pain) in Primary Care: Involving Traditional and Accessible New Approaches, Study of Health and its Management, and Women's Health Study (WHEST; females). MSP was defined as the presence of pain in ≥8 body sites in adults (≥10 sites in children) indicated on 4-view body manikins, conducted first to include joints (positive joints) and second without (negative joints). The relationship between pain and fatigue, sleep disturbance, somatic symptoms, and mood impairment was assessed using logistic regression. Results are presented as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). There were 34,818 participants across the study populations (adults age range 42-56 years, male 43-51% [excluding WHEST], and CWP prevalence 12-17%). Among those reporting MSP, the proportion reporting CWP ranged between 62% and 76%. Among those reporting the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia, there was an increased likelihood of reporting pain, the magnitude of which was similar regardless of the definition used. For example, within WHEST, reporting moderate/severe fatigue (Chalder fatigue scale 4-11) was associated with a >5-fold increase in likelihood of reporting pain (CWP OR 5.2 [95% CI 3.9-6.9], MSP-positive joints OR 6.5 [95% CI 5.0-8.6], and MSP-negative joints OR 6.5 [95% CI 4.7-9.0]). This large-scale study demonstrates that regardless of the pain definition used, the magnitude of association between pain and other associated symptoms of fibromyalgia is similar. This finding supports the continued collection of both when classifying fibromyalgia, but highlights the fact that pain may not require to follow the definition outlined within the 1990 American College of Rheumatology criteria. © 2017, American College of Rheumatology.

Dopamine D{sub 3} receptor gene: Organization transcript variants, and polymorphism associated with schizophrenia

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

Griffon, N.; Pilon, C.; Martres, M.P.

1996-02-16

DNA fragments from a genomic library were used to establish the partial structure of the human dopamine D{sub 3} receptor gene (DRD3). Its coding sequence contains 6 exons and stretches over 40,000 base pairs. The complete DRD3 transcript and three shorter variants, in which the second and/or third exon are deleted, were detected in similar proportions in brains from four controls and three psychiatric patients. The Msp I polymorphism was localized in the fifth intron of the gene, 40,000 base pairs downstream the Bal I polymorphism and a PCR-based method was developed for genotyping this polymorphism. The distributions of themore » Msp I and Bal I genotypes were not independent in 297 individuals ({chi}{sup 2} = 10.5, df = 4, P = 0.03), but only a weak association was found between allele 1 of the Bal I polymorphism and allele 2 of the Msp I polymorphism ({chi}{sup 2} = 3.99, df = 1, P = 0.04). The previously reported association between homozygosity at both alleles of the Bal I polymorphism and schizophrenia was presently maintained in an extended sample, comprising 119 DSM-III-R chronic schizophrenics and 85 controls ({chi}{sup 2}= 5.3, df = 1, P = 0.02) and found more important in males than in females. The presence of the Bal I allele 2 is associated with an early age at onset, particularly in males (df = 35, t value = 2.6, P = 0.014). In the same sample, allelic frequencies, genotype counts, and proportion of homozygotes for the Msp I polymorphism did not differ between schizophrenics and controls ({chi}{sup 2}= 0.06, df = 1, P = 0.80, {chi}{sup 2} = 0.22, df = 1, P = 0.90 and {chi}{sup 2} = 0.16, df = 1, P = 0.69, respectively). The large distance of the Msp I polymorphism from the Bal I polymorphism and its localization in the 3{prime} part of the gene may explain the discrepant results obtained with the two polymorphisms. 36 refs., 2 figs., 4 tabs.« less

Safety and Allele-Specific Immunogenicity of a Malaria Vaccine in Malian Adults: Results of a Phase I Randomized Trial

PubMed Central

Thera, Mahamadou A; Doumbo, Ogobara K; Coulibaly, Drissa; Diallo, Dapa A; Sagara, Issaka; Dicko, Alassane; Diemert, David J; Heppner, D. Gray; Stewart, V. Ann; Angov, Evelina; Soisson, Lorraine; Leach, Amanda; Tucker, Kathryn; Lyke, Kirsten E; Plowe, Christopher V

2006-01-01

Objectives: The objectives were to evaluate the safety, reactogenicity, and allele-specific immunogenicity of the blood-stage malaria vaccine FMP1/AS02A in adults exposed to seasonal malaria and the impact of natural infection on vaccine-induced antibody levels. Design: We conducted a randomized, double-blind, controlled phase I clinical trial. Setting: Bandiagara, Mali, West Africa, is a rural town with intense seasonal transmission of Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Participants: Forty healthy, malaria-experienced Malian adults aged 18–55 y were enrolled. Interventions: The FMP1/AS02A malaria vaccine is a 42-kDa recombinant protein based on the carboxy-terminal end of merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP-142) from the 3D7 clone of P. falciparum, adjuvanted with AS02A. The control vaccine was a killed rabies virus vaccine (Imovax). Participants were randomized to receive either FMP1/AS02A or rabies vaccine at 0, 1, and 2 mo and were followed for 1 y. Outcome Measures: Solicited and unsolicited adverse events and allele-specific antibody responses to recombinant MSP-142 and its subunits derived from P. falciparum strains homologous and heterologous to the 3D7 vaccine strain were measured. Results: Transient local pain and swelling were more common in the malaria vaccine group than in the control group (11/20 versus 3/20 and 10/20 versus 6/20, respectively). MSP-142 antibody levels rose during the malaria transmission season in the control group, but were significantly higher in malaria vaccine recipients after the second immunization and remained higher after the third immunization relative both to baseline and to the control group. Immunization with the malaria vaccine was followed by significant increases in antibodies recognizing three diverse MSP-142 alleles and their subunits. Conclusions: FMP1/AS02A was well tolerated and highly immunogenic in adults exposed to intense seasonal malaria transmission and elicited immune responses to genetically diverse parasite clones. Anti-MSP-142 antibody levels followed a seasonal pattern that was significantly augmented and prolonged by the malaria vaccine. PMID:17124530

Mission Specific Platforms: Past achievements and future developments in European led ocean research drilling.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cotterill, Carol; McInroy, David; Stevenson, Alan

2013-04-01

Mission Specific Platform (MSP) expeditions are operated by the European Consortium for Ocean Research Drilling (ECORD). Each MSP expedition is unique within the Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP). In order to complement the abilities of the JOIDES Resolution and the Chikyu, the ECORD Science Operator (ESO) must source vessels and technology suitable for each MSP proposal on a case-by-case basis. The result is that ESO can meet scientific requirements in a flexible manner, whilst maintaining the measurements required for the IODP legacy programme. The process of tendering within EU journals for vessels and technology means that the planning process for each MSP Expedition starts many years in advance of the operational phase. Involvement of proposal proponents from this early stage often leads to the recognition for technological research and development to best meet the scientific aims and objectives. One example of this is the planning for the Atlantis Massif proposal, with collaborative development between the British Geological Survey (BGS) and MARUM, University of Bremen, on suitable instruments for seabed drills, with the European Petrophysics Consortium (EPC) driving the development of suitable wireline logging tools that can be used in association with such seabed systems. Other technological developments being undertaken within the European IODP community include in-situ pressure sampling for gas hydrate expeditions, deep biosphere and fluid sampling equipment and CORK technology. This multi-national collaborative approach is also employed by ESO in the operational phase. IODP Expedition 302 ACEX saw vessel and ice management support from Russia and Sweden to facilitate the first drilling undertaken in Arctic sea ice. A review of MSP expeditions past, present and future reveal the significant impact of European led operations and scientific research within the current IODP programme, and also looking forward to the start of the new International Ocean Discovery Programme in October 2013. Key successes encompass technological development, operational procedures in sensitive areas and research into palaeoclimate and shoreline responses to sea level change amongst others. Increased operational flexibility in the new programme only serves to make the future an exciting one for ocean drilling in Europe.

Virtual reality and musculoskeletal pain: manipulating sensory cues to improve motor performance during walking.

PubMed

Powell, Wendy; Simmonds, Maureen J

2014-06-01

Musculoskeletal pain (MSP) is the most expensive nonmalignant health problem and the most common reason for activity limitation. Treatment approaches to improve movement without aggravating pain are urgently needed. Virtual reality (VR) can decrease acute pain, as well as influence movement speed. It is not clear whether VR can improve movement speed in individuals with MSP without aggravating pain. This study investigated the extent to which different audio and optic flow cues in a VR environment influenced walking speed in people with and without MSP. A total of 36 subjects participated, 19 with MSP and 17 controls. All walked on a motorized self-paced treadmill interfaced with a three-dimensional virtual walkway. The audio tempo was scaled (75%, 100%, and 125%) from baseline cadence, and optic flow was either absent, or scaled to 50% or 100% of preferred walking speed. Gait speed was measured during each condition, and pain was measured before and after the experiment. Repeated measures analysis of variance showed that audio tempo above baseline cadence significantly increased walking speed in both groups, F(3, 99)=10.41, p<0.001. Walking speed increases of more than 25% occurred in both groups in the 125% audio tempo condition, without any significant increase in pain. There was also a trend toward increased walking speeds with the use of optic flow, but the results in this study did not achieve significance at the p<0.05 level, F(2, 66)=2.01, p=0.14. Further research is needed to establish the generalizability of increasing movement speed across different physical performance tasks in VR.

Muscular strength profile in Tunisian male national judo team.

PubMed

Ghrairi, Mourad; Hammouda, Omar; Malliaropoulos, Nikos

2014-04-01

it is well established that muscle strength is a determinant factor in judo. However, little data are available for African athletes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to provide reference data of the muscular strength profile (MSP) for an African team, Tunisian judo team. the study was conducted among ten international judo athletes from Tunisia. To determine their MSP, we used an isokinetic dynamometer to assess Hamstrings, Quadriceps of both knees and external, internal rotators of both shoulders. The angular velocities of the assessments were; 90, 180, 240°/s for the knees and 60, 120°/s for the shoulders. MSP was determined based on two parameters; the maximum peak torque (PT) of each muscle and the ratio agonistic/antagonistic muscles (R). The knee extensors and flexors in the "supporting leg" had higher PT than in the "attacking leg"; respectively, 245N.m versus 237 (p<0.05) and 147 N.m versus 145 (p>0.05). R was normal for both legs. Furthermore, both rotators of the dominant shoulder had higher PT; 84 N.m versus 71 for the internal rotators (p<0.05) and 34,7 N.m versus 29,0 for the lateral rotators (p<0.05). Inversely, R was higher in the non-dominant side; 45% versus 35, p<0.05). the MSP of the selected elites Tunisian judo athletes was characterized by 3 major features; a strength of the quadriceps in the standing leg significantly higher than in the attacking leg, a normal muscular balance Hamstrings/quadriceps in both legs and a strength of the shoulder' rotators higher in the dominant side.

An analytical approach to reduce between-plate variation in multiplex assays that measure antibodies to Plasmodium falciparum antigens.

PubMed

Fang, Rui; Wey, Andrew; Bobbili, Naveen K; Leke, Rose F G; Taylor, Diane Wallace; Chen, John J

2017-07-17

Antibodies play an important role in immunity to malaria. Recent studies show that antibodies to multiple antigens, as well as, the overall breadth of the response are associated with protection from malaria. Yet, the variability and reliability of antibody measurements against a combination of malarial antigens using multiplex assays have not been well characterized. A normalization procedure for reducing between-plate variation using replicates of pooled positive and negative controls was investigated. Sixty test samples (30 from malaria-positive and 30 malaria-negative individuals), together with five pooled positive-controls and two pooled negative-controls, were screened for antibody levels to 9 malarial antigens, including merozoite antigens (AMA1, EBA175, MSP1, MSP2, MSP3, MSP11, Pf41), sporozoite CSP, and pregnancy-associated VAR2CSA. The antibody levels were measured in triplicate on each of 3 plates, and the experiments were replicated on two different days by the same technician. The performance of the proposed normalization procedure was evaluated with the pooled controls for the test samples on both the linear and natural-log scales. Compared with data on the linear scale, the natural-log transformed data were less skewed and reduced the mean-variance relationship. The proposed normalization procedure using pooled controls on the natural-log scale significantly reduced between-plate variation. For malaria-related research that measure antibodies to multiple antigens with multiplex assays, the natural-log transformation is recommended for data analysis and use of the normalization procedure with multiple pooled controls can improve the precision of antibody measurements.

STK/RON receptor tyrosine kinase mediates both apoptotic and growth signals via the multifunctional docking site conserved among the HGF receptor family.

PubMed Central

Iwama, A; Yamaguchi, N; Suda, T

1996-01-01

STK/RON tyrosine kinase, a member of the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor family, is a receptor for macrophage-stimulating protein (MSP). To examine the STK/RON signalling pathway, we generated STK/ RON transfectants showing opposite features in growth. STK/RON-expressing Ba/F3 pro-B cells (BaF/STK) exhibited MSP-dependent growth, whereas STK/ RON-expressing mouse erythroleukaemia cells (MEL/ STK) displayed MSP-induced apoptosis. This apoptosis was accompanied by the prolonged activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), which has recently been implicated in the initiation of apoptosis. Co-immunoprecipitation analyses showed that autophosphorylated STK/RON associated with PLC-gamma, P13-kinase, Shc and Grb2 in both transfectants. However, major tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins, p61 and p65, specifically associated with STK/RON in MEL/STK cells. Mutations at two C-terminal tyrosine residues, Y1330 and Y1337, in the counterpart of the multifunctional docking site of the HGF receptor abolished both MSP-induced growth and apoptosis. Analyses of these mutants and in vitro association revealed that signalling proteins including p61 and p65 directly bound to the phosphotyrosines in the multifunctional docking site. These results demonstrate that positive or negative signals toward cell growth are generated through the multifunctional docking site and suggest the involvement of p61 and p65 as well as JNK in apoptosis. Our findings provide the first evidence for apoptosis via a receptor tyrosine kinase. Images PMID:8918464

Region of interest methylation analysis: a comparison of MSP with MS-HRM and direct BSP.

PubMed

Akika, Reem; Awada, Zainab; Mogharbil, Nahed; Zgheib, Nathalie K

2017-07-01

The aim of this study was to compare and contrast three DNA methylation methods of a specific region of interest (ROI): methylation-specific PCR (MSP), methylation-sensitive high resolution melting (MS-HRM) and direct bisulfite sequencing (BSP). The methylation of a CpG area in the promoter region of Estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1) was evaluated by these three methods with samples and standards of different methylation percentages. MSP data were neither reproducible nor sensitive, and the assay was not specific due to non-specific binding of primers. MS-HRM was highly reproducible and a step forward into categorizing the methylation status of the samples as percent ranges. Direct BSP was the most informative method regarding methylation percentage of each CpG site. Though not perfect, it was reproducible and sensitive. We recommend the use of either method depending on the research question and target amplicon, and provided that the designed primers and expected amplicons are within recommendations. If the research question targets a limited number of CpG sites and simple yes/no results are enough, MSP may be attempted. For short amplicons that are crowded with CpG sites and of single melting domain, MS-HRM may be the method of choice though it only indicates the overall methylation percentage of the entire amplicon. Although the assay is highly reproducible, being semi-quantitative makes it of lesser interest to study ROI methylation of samples with little methylation differences. Direct BSP is a step forward as it gives information about the methylation percentage at each CpG site.

UV-Vis microspectrophotometry as a method of differentiation between cotton fibre evidence coloured with reactive dyes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Was-Gubala, Jolanta; Starczak, Roza

2015-05-01

The main purposes of this study was to assess the usefulness of microspectrophotometry (MSP), both in the ultraviolet (UV) and visible (Vis) range for discriminating single cotton fibres dyed with reactive dyes coming from the same manufacturer, as well as the possibility of evaluation of the concentration of dye in an examine fibre. This study utilised woven cotton fabrics dyed with different concentrations of one-compound reactive dyes with the commercial name Cibacron® (at present Novacron®) as the focus of the MSP analysis. The spectra were recorded in the UV-Vis range between 200 and 800 nm, in transmission mode. The results from this study illustrated that all of the analysed cotton samples dyed with reactive dyes were distinguishable between each other with the use of MSP, mostly in the visible, and also in ultraviolet range. The limit for applied MSP techniques was 0.18% of the concentration of a dye in the textile sample. The results indicate that based on the absorbance measurements for fibres constituting e.g. forensic traces it was not possible to estimate the concentration of the dye in the fibre because Beer's law did not obey. The intra-sample, and inter- sample variation, as well as dichroism effect in a case of a cotton fibres dyed with reactive dye were observed. On the basis of the results obtained for each analysed cotton sample, it was concluded that there was no correlation between colour uniformity in cotton fabric (changes in lightness, red/green and yellow/blue colour) and concentration of the reactive dye.

Nondestructive identification of dye mixtures in polyester and cotton fibers using raman spectroscopy and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) microspectrophotometry.

PubMed

Was-Gubala, Jolanta; Starczak, Roza

2015-01-01

Presented in this paper is an assessment of the applicability of Raman spectroscopy and microspectrophotometry (MSP) in visible and ultraviolet light (UV-Vis) in the examination of textile fibers dyed with mixtures of synthetic dyes. Fragments of single polyester fibers, stained with ternary mixtures of disperse dyes in small mass concentrations, and fragments of single cotton fibers, dyed with binary or ternary mixtures of reactive dyes, were subjected to the study. Three types of excitation sources, 514, 633, and 785 nm, were used during Raman examinations, while the MSP study was conducted in the 200 to 800 nm range. The results indicate that the capabilities for discernment of dye mixtures are similar in the spectroscopic methods that were employed. Both methods have a limited capacity to distinguish slightly dyed polyester fiber; additionally, it was found that Raman spectroscopy enables identification of primarily the major components in dye mixtures. The best results, in terms of the quality of Raman spectra, were obtained using an excitation source from the near infrared. MSP studies led to the conclusion that polyester testing should be carried out in the range above 310 nm, while for cotton fibers there is no limitation or restriction of the applied range. Also, MSP UV-Vis showed limited possibilities for discriminatory analysis of cotton fibers dyed with a mixture of reactive dyes, where the ratio of the concentration of the main dye used in the dyeing process to minor dye was higher than four. The results presented have practical applications in forensic studies, inter alia.

Longitudinal and Cross-Sectional Genetic Diversity in the Korean Peninsula Based on the P vivax Merozoite Surface Protein Gene.

PubMed

Kim, Jung-Yeon; Suh, Eun-Jung; Yu, Hyo-Soon; Jung, Hyun-Sik; Park, In-Ho; Choi, Yien-Kyeoug; Choi, Kyoung-Mi; Cho, Shin-Hyeong; Lee, Won-Ja

2011-12-01

Vivax malaria has reemerged and become endemic in Korea. Our study aimed to analyze by both longitudinal and cross-sectional genetic diversity of this malaria based on the P vivax Merozoite Surface Protein (PvMSP) gene parasites recently found in the Korean peninsula. PvMSP-1 gene sequence analysis from P vivax isolates (n = 835) during the 1996-2010 period were longitudinally analyzed and the isolates from the Korean peninsula through South Korea, the demilitarized zone and North Korea collected in 2008-2010 were enrolled in an overall analysis of MSP-1 gene diversity. New recombinant subtypes and severe multiple-cloneinfection rates were observed in recent vivax parasites. Regional variation was also observed in the study sites. This study revealed the great complexity of genetic variation and rapid dissemination of genes in P vivax. It also showed interesting patterns of diversity depending, on the region in the Korean Peninsula. Understanding the parasiteninsula. Under genetic variation may help to analyze trends and assess the extent of endemic malaria in Korea.

PCR detection of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in goat flocks in an area endemic for tick-borne fever in Switzerland.

PubMed

Silaghi, C; Scheuerle, M C; Friche Passos, L M; Thiel, C; Pfister, K

2011-02-01

Central Switzerland is a highly endemic region for tick-borne fever (TBF) in cattle, however, little is known about A. phagocytophilum in goats. In the present study, 72 animals from six goat flocks (373 EDTA blood-samples) in Central Switzerland were analysed for A. phagocytophilum DNA. A real-time PCR targeting the msp2 gene of A. phagocytophilum was performed and in positive samples the partial 165 rRNA, groEL and msp4 gene were amplified for sequence analysis. Four DNA extracts were positive. Different sequence types on basis of the amplified genes were found. For comparison, sequences of A. phagocytophilum from 12 cattle (originating from Switzerland and Southern Germany) were analysed. The 165 rRNA gene sequences from cattle were all identical amongst each other, but the groEL and msp4 gene differed depending on the origin of the cattle samples and differed from the variants from goats. This study clearly provides molecular evidence for the presence of different types of A. phagocytophilum in goat flocks in Switzerland, a fact which deserves more thorough attention in clinical studies.

Peculiarities of RFLP of highly repetitive DNA in crow genomes

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

Chelomina, G.N.; Kryukov, A.P.; Ivanov, S.V.

1995-02-01

We present a study of the structural organization of highly repetitive DNA in genomes of hooded crow Corvus cornix L., carrion crow C. corone L., and jungle crow C. macrorhynchos Wagl. RFLP and blot-hybridization with {sup 32}P-labeled Msp I fragment from hooded crow nDNA suggest the interspecific structural conservatism of the most repetitive DNA. The family of repeats we studied had tandem organization and the same (210 bp) period of reiteration for a set of restriction enzymes. However, in parallel to the general similarity of restriction patterns, there are species-specific peculiarities. The repetitive family revealed (Alu I, BsuR I, andmore » Msp I fragments) has quantitative RFLP of nDNA and interspecific differences in the extent of the multimer {open_quotes}ladder{close_quotes} pattern of Msp I fragments. The latter is more pronounced in nDNA of carrion crow than in that of phylogenetically distant jungle crow and closely related hooded crow. This suggests a recent amplification event for highly organized homological repeats in crow genomes. 10 refs., 2 figs.« less

Managing Demand and Capacity Using Multi-Sector Planning and Flexible Airspace: Human-in-the-Loop Evaluation of NextGen

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Paul U.; Smith, Nancy M.; Prevot, Thomas; Homola, Jeffrey R.

2010-01-01

When demand for an airspace sector exceeds capacity, the balance can be re-established by reducing the demand, increasing the capacity, or both. The Multi-Sector Planner (MSP) concept has been proposed to better manage traffic demand by modifying trajectories across multiple sectors. A complementary approach to MSP, called Flexible Airspace Management (FAM), reconfigures the airspace such that capacity can be reallocated dynamically to balance the traffic demand across multiple sectors, resulting in fewer traffic management initiatives. The two concepts have been evaluated with a series of human-in-the-loop simulations at the Airspace Operations Laboratory to examine and refine the roles of the human operators in these concepts, as well as their tools and procedural requirements. So far MSP and FAM functions have been evaluated individually but the integration of the two functions is desirable since there are significant overlaps in their goals, geographic/temporal scope of the problem space, and the implementation timeframe. Ongoing research is planned to refine the humans roles in the integrated concept.

Methods for microbiological quality assessment in drinking water: a comparative study.

PubMed

Helmi, K; Barthod, F; Méheut, G; Henry, A; Poty, F; Laurent, F; Charni-Ben-Tabassi, N

2015-03-01

The present study aimed to compare several methods for quantifying and discriminating between the different physiological states of a bacterial population present in drinking water. Flow cytometry (FCM), solid-phase cytometry (SPC), epifluorescence microscopy (MSP) and culture method performances were assessed by comparing the results obtained for different water samples. These samples, including chlorinated and non-chlorinated water, were collected in a drinking water treatment plant. Total bacteria were quantified by using SYBR Green II (for FCM) and 4',6'-diamino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) (for MSP), viable and non-viable bacteria were distinguished by using SYBR Green II and propidium iodide dual staining (for FCM), and active cells were distinguished by using CTC (for MSP) and Chemchrome V6 (for FCM and SPC). In our conditions, counts using microscopy and FCM were significantly correlated regarding total bacteria and active cells. Conversely, counts were not significantly similar using solid-phase and FCM for active bacteria. Moreover, the R2A medium showed that bacterial culturability could be recovered after chlorination. This study highlights that FCM appears to be a useful and powerful technique for drinking water production monitoring.

Fidelity of test development process within a national science grant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brumfield, Teresa E.

In 2002, a math-science partnership (MSP) program was initiated by a national science grant. The purpose of the MSP program was to promote the development, implementation, and sustainability of promising partnerships among institutions of higher education, K-12 schools and school systems, as well as other important stakeholders. One of the funded projects included a teacher-scientist collaborative that instituted a professional development system to prepare teachers to use inquiry-based instructional modules. The MSP program mandated evaluations of its funded projects. One of the teacher-scientist collaborative project's outcomes specifically focused on teacher and student science content and process skills. In order to provide annual evidence of progress and to measure the impact of the project's efforts, and because no appropriate science tests were available to measure improvements in content knowledge of participating teachers and their students, the project contracted for the development of science tests. This dissertation focused on the process of test development within an evaluation and examined planned (i.e., expected) and actual (i.e., observed) test development, specifically concentrating on the factors that affected the actual test development process. Planned test development was defined as the process of creating tests according to the well-established test development procedures recommended by the AERA/APA/NCME 1999 Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing. Actual test development was defined as the process of creating tests as it actually took place. Because case study provides an in-depth, longitudinal examination of an event (i.e., case) in a naturalistic setting, it was selected as the appropriate methodology to examine the difference between planned and actual test development. The case (or unit of analysis) was the test development task, a task that was bounded by the context in which it occurred---and over which this researcher had no control---and by time. The purpose for studying the case was to gain a more in-depth, holistic understanding of the real-life test development task that took place within a project evaluation context. In particular, this case study investigated how the actual test development process was affected by: (1) the national and state (i.e., NC) science standards, (2) the NSF's definition of "evidence" in a project evaluation, (3) the MSP project's understanding of the role of the to-be-developed tests in their project evaluation, (4) the MSP project's understanding of the test development process, and (5) the MSP project's participants (e.g., teacher item-writers and scientists). From an investigation of this case, it was concluded that: (a) constructing psychometrically sound tests within an evaluation is not easy, (b) sufficient time and resources to construct such measures properly are seldom provided, and (c) test construction---at least within an evaluation---is not routine and unproblematic. Based upon the results from this case study, it was recommended that stakeholders (i.e., program managers, project directors, and evaluators) be familiar with the steps and standards used to develop psychometrically sound tests. Additionally, it was recommended that, for future research, a meta-analysis that examines only the test development process be conducted of all other MSP projects. A second suggested future research area was to establish a protocol that provides a systematic means by which to examine an existing or proposed MSP project for alignment with state science standards. Such a protocol would be cost-effective in that demonstrated alignment with state science standards would enable projects to use existing state science assessments, which must be in place, according to NCLB, by the 2007-2008 school year, to demonstrate student achievement. In this way, project directors and evaluators, typically with limited familiarity with the steps and standards by which psychometrically sound assessments are created, would not be placed in the role of test developer.

Forme pseudotumorale de la tuberculose pulmonaire et les difficultés diagnostic: à propos d’un cas

PubMed Central

Ouarssani, Aziz; Atoini, Fouad; Reda, Rafik; Lhou, Fatima Ait; Rguibi, Mustapha Idrissi

2013-01-01

La tuberculose pulmonaire est un problème majeur de santé publique. Dans sa forme commune, le diagnostic est habituellement aisé, mais elle peut se présenter sous une forme trompeuse et entrainer un retard diagnostic et thérapeutique. Nous rapportons le cas d’un patient âgé de 25ans, étudiant, sans antécédents pathologiques particuliers, hospitalisé dans notre formation pour un syndrome bronchique trainant avec altération de l’état général. L’examen clinique pleuropulmonaire est normal, l’examen des aires ganglionnaires trouve une adénopathie sus claviculaire droite, la radiographie thoracique de face objective une opacité hilaire droite hétérogène à contours irréguliers, la TDM thoracique retrouve un processus lésionnel tissulaire du lobe supérieur droit qui s’étend vers le médiastin et englobe partiellement la veine cave supérieure avec une adénopathie latérotracheale droite nécrosée. La fibroscopie bronchique objective un élargissement des éperons intersegmentaires du lobe supérieur droit, les biopsies réalisées avec étude histologique sont non concluantes. Les recherches de BK dans les expectorations et dans le liquide d’aspiration bronchique sont negatives. L’IDR à la tuberculine est à 15mm. C’est la ponction transparietale scannoguidée avec étude anatomopathologique qui confirme le diagnostic de tuberculose caseofolliculaire. La sérologie VIH est négative. Le diagnostic de tuberculose pulmonaire pseudotumorale chez un immunocompétent a été retenu et le patient a été mis sous traitement antibacillaire (régime standard national Marocain) par rifampicine, isoniazide, pyrazinamide et éthambutol pendant 6 mois avec évolution clinique et radiologique favorable. La tuberculose pulmonaire ne cesse de tromper le clinicien par son polymorphisme clinique et radiologique, elle doit être évoquée devant toute atteinte pulmonaire d’allure tumorale pour permettre une prise en charge précoce de la maladie. PMID:23646217

Effects of Polarization on Mechanical Properties of Lead Zirconate Titanate Ceramics Evaluated by Modified Small Punch Tests

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, Qihuang; Fan, Yuchi; Wang, Lianjun; Xiong, Zhi; Wang, Hongzhi; Li, Yaogang; Zhang, Qinghong; Kawasaki, Akira; Jiang, Wan

2012-01-01

Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 (PZT) ceramics were prepared by the conventional mixed oxide method, and the strength of the resultant PZT ceramics was evaluated using modified small punch (MSP) tests. Load-displacement curve test results showed that the crack-initiation and fracture strengths of PZT ceramics decreased after polarization. The effect of the polarization accelerated the fatigue properties of PZT ceramics. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results showed that microcracks were formed before the maximum load in the MSP test, and the first load drop corresponded to crack initiation.

The menu-setting problem and subsidized prices: drug formulary illustration.

PubMed

Olmstead, T; Zeckhauser, R

1999-10-01

The menu-setting problem (MSP) determines the goods and services an institution offers and the prices charged. It appears widely in health care, from choosing the services an insurance arrangement offers, to selecting the health plans an employer proffers. The challenge arises because purchases are subsidized, and consumers (or their physician agents) may make cost-ineffective choices. The intuitively comprehensible MSP model--readily solved by computer using actual data--helps structure thinking and support decision making about such problems. The analysis uses drug formularies--lists of approved drugs in a plan or institution--to illustrate the framework.

Efficacy and equivalency of an Escherichia coli-derived phytase for replacing inorganic phosphorus in the diets of broiler chickens and young pigs.

PubMed

Jendza, J A; Dilger, R N; Sands, J S; Adeola, O

2006-12-01

Two studies were conducted to determine the efficacy of an Escherichia coli-derived phytase (ECP) and its equivalency relative to inorganic phosphorus (iP) from monosodium phosphate (MSP). In Exp. 1, one thousand two hundred 1-d-old male broilers were used in a 42-d trial to assess the effect of ECP and iP supplementation on growth performance and nutrient digestibility. Dietary treatments were based on corn-soybean meal basal diets (BD) containing 239 and 221 g of CP, 8.2 and 6.6 g of Ca, and 2.4 and 1.5 g of nonphytate P (nPP) per kg for the starter and grower phases, respectively. Treatments consisted of the BD; the BD + 0.6, 1.2, or 1.8 g of iP from MSP per kg; and the BD + 250, 500, 750, or 1,000 phytase units (FTU) of ECP per kg. Increasing levels of MSP improved gain, gain:feed, and tibia ash (linear, P < 0.01). Increasing levels of ECP improved gain, gain:feed, tibia ash (linear, P < 0.01), apparent ileal digestibility of P, N, Arg, His, Phe, and Trp at d 21 (linear, P < 0.05), and apparent retention of P at d 21 (linear, P < 0.05). Increasing levels of ECP decreased apparent retention of energy (linear, P < 0.01). Five hundred FTU of ECP per kg was determined to be equivalent to the addition of 0.72, 0.78, and 1.19 g of iP from MSP per kg in broiler diets based on gain, feed intake, and bone ash, respectively. In Exp. 2, forty-eight 10-kg pigs were used in a 28-d trial to assess the effect of ECP and iP supplementation on growth performance and nutrient digestibility. Dietary treatments consisted of a positive control containing 6.1 and 3.5 g of Ca and nPP, respectively, per kg; a negative control (NC) containing 4.8 and 1.7 g of Ca and nPP, respectively, per kg; the NC diet plus 0.4, 0.8, or 1.2 g of iP from MSP per kg; and the NC diet plus 500, 750, or 1,000 FTU of ECP per kg. Daily gain improved (linear, P < 0.05) with ECP addition, as did apparent digestibility of Ca and P (linear, P < 0.01). Five hundred FTU of ECP per kg was determined to be equivalent to the addition of 0.49 and 1.00 g of iP from MSP per kg in starter pigs diets, based on ADG and bone ash, respectively.

A simple method for semi-random DNA amplicon fragmentation using the methylation-dependent restriction enzyme MspJI.

PubMed

Shinozuka, Hiroshi; Cogan, Noel O I; Shinozuka, Maiko; Marshall, Alexis; Kay, Pippa; Lin, Yi-Han; Spangenberg, German C; Forster, John W

2015-04-11

Fragmentation at random nucleotide locations is an essential process for preparation of DNA libraries to be used on massively parallel short-read DNA sequencing platforms. Although instruments for physical shearing, such as the Covaris S2 focused-ultrasonicator system, and products for enzymatic shearing, such as the Nextera technology and NEBNext dsDNA Fragmentase kit, are commercially available, a simple and inexpensive method is desirable for high-throughput sequencing library preparation. MspJI is a recently characterised restriction enzyme which recognises the sequence motif CNNR (where R = G or A) when the first base is modified to 5-methylcytosine or 5-hydroxymethylcytosine. A semi-random enzymatic DNA amplicon fragmentation method was developed based on the unique cleavage properties of MspJI. In this method, random incorporation of 5-methyl-2'-deoxycytidine-5'-triphosphate is achieved through DNA amplification with DNA polymerase, followed by DNA digestion with MspJI. Due to the recognition sequence of the enzyme, DNA amplicons are fragmented in a relatively sequence-independent manner. The size range of the resulting fragments was capable of control through optimisation of 5-methyl-2'-deoxycytidine-5'-triphosphate concentration in the reaction mixture. A library suitable for sequencing using the Illumina MiSeq platform was prepared and processed using the proposed method. Alignment of generated short reads to a reference sequence demonstrated a relatively high level of random fragmentation. The proposed method may be performed with standard laboratory equipment. Although the uniformity of coverage was slightly inferior to the Covaris physical shearing procedure, due to efficiencies of cost and labour, the method may be more suitable than existing approaches for implementation in large-scale sequencing activities, such as bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC)-based genome sequence assembly, pan-genomic studies and locus-targeted genotyping-by-sequencing.

Metabolic regulation as a consequence of anaerobic 5-methylthioadenosine recycling in Rhodospirillum rubrum

DOE PAGES

North, Justin A.; Sriram, Jaya; Chourey, Karuna; ...

2016-07-12

Rhodospirillum rubrum possesses a novel oxygen-independent, aerobic methionine salvage pathway (MSP) for recycling methionine from 5-methylthioadenosine (MTA), the MTA-isoprenoid shunt. This organism can also metabolize MTA as a sulfur source under anaerobic conditions, suggesting that the MTA-isoprenoid shunt may also function anaerobically as well. In this study, deep proteomics profiling, directed metabolite analysis, and reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) revealed metabolic changes in response to anaerobic growth on MTA versus sulfate as sole sulfur source. The abundance of protein levels associated with methionine transport, cell motility, and chemotaxis increased in the presence of MTA over that in the presence ofmore » sulfate. Purine salvage from MTA resulted primarily in hypoxanthine accumulation and a decrease in protein levels involved in GMP-to-AMP conversion to balance purine pools. Acyl coenzyme A (acyl-CoA) metabolic protein levels for lipid metabolism were lower in abundance, whereas poly-β-hydroxybutyrate synthesis and storage were increased nearly 10-fold. The known R. rubrum aerobic MSP was also shown to be upregulated, to function anaerobically, and to recycle MTA. This suggested that other organisms with gene homologues for the MTA-isoprenoid shunt may also possess a functioning anaerobic MSP. In support of our previous findings that ribulose-1,5-carboxylase/oxygenase (RubisCO) is required for an apparently purely anaerobic MSP, RubisCO transcript and protein levels both increased in abundance by over 10-fold in cells grown anaerobically on MTA over those in cells grown on sulfate, resulting in increased intracellular RubisCO activity. Lastly, these results reveal for the first time global metabolic responses as a consequence of anaerobic MTA metabolism compared to using sulfate as the sulfur source.« less

Protective determinants of sickness absence among employees with multisite pain-a 7-year follow-up.

PubMed

Haukka, Eija; Ojajärvi, Anneli; Kaila-Kangas, Leena; Leino-Arjas, Päivi

2017-02-01

We identified factors protective of all-cause sickness absence (SA) among subjects with multisite musculoskeletal pain (MSP). The nationally representative source sample comprised 3420 actively working Finns aged 30 to 55 in year 2000 and alive at follow-up. Pain in 18 body locations was combined into four sites (neck, low back, upper limbs, and lower limbs). The baseline prevalence of MSP (pain in ≥ 2 sites) was 32%. Baseline data on sociodemographic factors, work ability, work, health, and lifestyle were gathered by questionnaire, interview, and clinical examination and linked with national registers on all-cause SA (periods lasting ≥10 workdays) for 2002 to 2008. Based on trajectory analysis, 74% of those with MSP had a low and 26% a high probability of SA. In logistic regression analysis, younger age, male sex, and professional occupational group were inversely associated with SA. Allowing for these, good physician-assessed work ability, physically light work, possibility to adjust workday length, encouraging workplace atmosphere, no problems with working community or mental stress, normal weight, and no sleep disorders were predictive of lower SA rates (odds ratios between 0.47 and 0.70). In a final stepwise model adjusted for age, sex, and occupational group, no exposure to lifting (odds ratio 0.58, 95% confidence interval 0.39-0.85) and to repetitive hand movements (0.57, 0.39-0.83), possibility to adjust workday length (0.73, 0.53-0.99), and normal weight (0.59, 0.40-0.87) were inversely associated with SA. In conclusion, several modifiable factors related to work and lifestyle were found as predictive of lower rates of longer SA among occupationally active subjects with MSP.

Marine Spatial Planning Makes Room for Offshore Aquaculture in a Crowded Coastal Zone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stevens, J.

2016-12-01

Offshore aquaculture is an emerging industry predicted to contribute significantly to global seafood production and food security. However, aquaculture farms can generate conflicts by displacing existing ocean user groups and impacting ecosystems. Further, there are multiple farm types with different seafood species, productivity levels and impacts. Thus, it is important to strategically and simultaneously plan farm type and location in relation to the seascape in order to most effectively maximize aquaculture value while also minimizing conflicts and environmental impacts. We address this problem and demonstrate the value of multi-objective planning with a case study that integrates bioeconomic modeling with ecosystem service tradeoff analysis to inform the marine spatial planning (MSP) of mussel, finfish and kelp aquaculture farms in the already-crowded Southern California Bight (SCB) ecosystem. We considered four user groups predicted to conflict with or be impacted by the three types of aquaculture: wild-capture fisheries, ocean viewshed from coastal properties, marine benthic habitat protection, and risk of disease outbreak between farms. Results indicate that significant conflicts and impacts, expected under conventional planning, can be reduced by strategic planning. For example, 28% of potential mussel farm sites overlap with wild-capture halibut fishery grounds, yet MSP can enable mussel aquaculture to generate up to a third of its total potential industry value without impacting halibut fishery yield. Results also highlight hotspot areas in the SCB most appropriate for each type of aquaculture under MSP, as well as particular mussel, finfish and kelp aquaculture spatial plans that align with legislative regulations on allowable impacts from future aquaculture farms in California. This study comprehensively informs aquaculture farm design in the SCB, and demonstrates the value of multi-objective simultaneous planning as a key component in MSP.

Does infection with Human Immunodeficiency Virus affect the antibody responses to Plasmodium falciparum antigenic determinants in asymptomatic pregnant women?

PubMed

Ayisi, J G; Branch, OraLee H; Rafi-Janajreh, A; van Eijk, A M; ter Kuile, F O; Rosen, D H; Kager, P A; Lanar, D E; Barbosa, A; Kaslow, D; Nahlen, B L; Lal, A A

2003-04-01

HIV-seropositive pregnant women are more susceptible to malaria than HIV-seronegative women. We assessed whether HIV infection alters maternal and cord plasma malarial antibody responses and the mother-to-infant transfer of malaria antibodies. We determined plasma levels of maternal and cord antibodies [Immunoglobulin (IgG)] to recombinant malarial proteins [merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP-1(19kD)), the erythrocyte binding antigen (EBA-175)], the synthetic peptides [MSP-2, MSP-3, rhoptry associated protein 1 (RAP-1), and the pre-erythrocytic stage, circumsporozoite protein (NANP)(5)] antigenic determinants of Plasmodium falciparum; and tetanus toxoid (TT) by ELISA among samples of 99 HIV-seropositive mothers, 69 of their infants, 102 HIV-seronegative mothers and 62 of their infants. The prevalence of maternal antibodies to the malarial antigenic determinants ranged from 18% on MSP3 to 91% on EBA-175; in cord plasma it ranged from 13% to 91%, respectively. More than 97% of maternal and cord samples had antibodies to TT. In multivariate analysis, HIV infection was only associated with reduced antibodies to (NANP)(5) in maternal (P=0.001) and cord plasma (P=0.001); and reduced mother-to-infant antibody transfer to (NANP)(5) (P=0.012). This effect of HIV was independent of maternal age, gravidity and placental malaria. No consistent HIV-associated differences were observed for other antigenic determinants. An effect of HIV infection was only observed on one malarial antigenic determinant, suggesting that the increased susceptibility to malaria among HIV-infected pregnant women may not be explained on the basis of their reduced antibody response to malaria antigens.

PCR-based polymorphisms in neurofibromatosis type 1 (NFI)

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

Lai, P.S.; Chee, S.; Low, P.S.

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is one of the most common genetic disorders in humans with an incidence of 1 in 3,000. The NF1 gene is located on chromosome 17q 11.2 and encodes an ubiquitously expressed transcript of about 13kb. Direct mutation detection is difficult in this disorder due to the large gene size, high mutation rate and variety of mutations. We have studied the allele frequencies of seven PCR-based polymorphisms. Six of the probes used flank the NF1 gene, namely p11.3C4.2/Msp I (proximal), pEW206/Msp I (distal), p2.f9.8/Rsa I (distal), pEW207/Bgl II (distal), pEW207/Hind III (distal) and pHHH202/Rsa I (proximal). Anmore » intragenic RFLP, pEvi 2B-B/Eco R1 polymorphism in intron 27, was also analyzed by PCR. Allele frequencies for 48 normal unrelated individuals were obtained as follows: A1 = 0.40, A2 = 0.6 (p11.3C4.2/Msp I), A1 = 0.44, A2 = 0.56 (pEW206/Msp I), A1 = 0.17, A2 = 0.83 (p2.F9.8/Rsa I), A1 = 0.64, A2 = 0.36 (pEW207/Bgl I), A1 = 0.45, A2 = 0.55 (pEvi 2B-B/Eco RI). Heterozygosity rates of the alleles ranged from 20.8% to 51.7%. Using a combination of these markers, seven local families with NF1 were studied. Normal Mendelian segregation of alleles was observed in these families and no recombination was detected so far. These PCR-based markers were found to be useful for linkage analysis in our families.« less

Marine Spatial Planning Makes Room for Offshore Aquaculture in a Crowded Coastal Zone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stevens, J.

2016-02-01

Offshore aquaculture is an emerging industry predicted to contribute significantly to global seafood production and food security. However, aquaculture farms can generate conflicts by displacing existing ocean user groups and impacting ecosystems. Further, there are multiple farm types with different seafood species, productivity levels and impacts. Thus, it is important to strategically and simultaneously plan farm type and location in relation to the seascape in order to most effectively maximize aquaculture value while also minimizing conflicts and environmental impacts. We address this problem and demonstrate the value of multi-objective planning with a case study that integrates bioeconomic modeling with ecosystem service tradeoff analysis to inform the marine spatial planning (MSP) of mussel, finfish and kelp aquaculture farms in the already-crowded Southern California Bight (SCB) ecosystem. We considered four user groups predicted to conflict with or be impacted by the three types of aquaculture: wild-capture fisheries, ocean viewshed from coastal properties, marine benthic habitat protection, and risk of disease outbreak between farms. Results indicate that significant conflicts and impacts, expected under conventional planning, can be reduced by strategic planning. For example, 28% of potential mussel farm sites overlap with wild-capture halibut fishery grounds, yet MSP can enable mussel aquaculture to generate up to a third of its total potential industry value without impacting halibut fishery yield. Results also highlight hotspot areas in the SCB most appropriate for each type of aquaculture under MSP, as well as particular mussel, finfish and kelp aquaculture spatial plans that align with legislative regulations on allowable impacts from future aquaculture farms in California. This study comprehensively informs aquaculture farm design in the SCB, and demonstrates the value of multi-objective simultaneous planning as a key component in MSP.

Walking speed is associated with self-perceived hearing handicap in high-functioning older adults: The Fujiwara-kyo study.

PubMed

Tomioka, Kimiko; Harano, Akihiro; Hazaki, Kan; Morikawa, Masayuki; Iwamoto, Junko; Saeki, Keigo; Okamoto, Nozomi; Kurumatani, Norio

2015-06-01

The present study investigated whether physical performance and musculoskeletal pain (MSP) are associated with self-perceived hearing handicap (HH) among high-functioning older adults. We analyzed a total of 3982 community-dwelling high-functioning older adults (age 65 years and older). HH was assessed using the Hearing Handicap Inventory for Elderly-Screening. Self-reported hearing impairment (HI) was evaluated using a single question. We measured handgrip strength, walking speed (WS) and standing balance for assessments of physical performance. The severity of MSP assessed by interviews took into account its duration, limitation of daily activity and frequency. The prevalence of HH and HI in our sample was 22.2% and 28.1%, respectively. After adjusting for other two physical performance measures, MSP, sex, age, education, marital status, risk factors for hearing loss, instrumental activity of daily living, depression, cognitive function and self-reported HI, the odds ratios for HH in the second fastest, the second slowest, and the slowest WS quartile were 1.14 (95% CI = 0.81-1.58), 1.29 (95% CI = 0.92-1.79), and 1.58 (95% CI = 1.11-2.23), respectively, compared with the fastest WS quartile. A significant dose-response relationship was found between slower WS and HH (P for trend = 0.01). No significant association with HH was found in handgrip strength, standing balance and MSP. WS is associated with self-perceived HH in high-functioning older adults. The present study suggests that exercise programs to improve walking ability might be effective in preventing HH of self-sustainable older adults. © 2014 Japan Geriatrics Society.

DNA methylation in sugarcane somaclonal variants assessed through methylation-sensitive amplified polymorphism.

PubMed

Francischini, J H M B; Kemper, E L; Costa, J B; Manechini, J R V; Pinto, L R

2017-05-04

Micropropagation is an important tool for large-scale multiplication of plant superior genotypes. However, somaclonal variation is one of the drawbacks of this process. Changes in DNA methylation have been widely reported as one of the main causes of somaclonal variations in plants. In order to investigate the occurrence of changes in the methylation pattern of sugarcane somaclonal variants, the MSAP (methylation-sensitive amplified polymorphism) technique was applied to micro-propagated plantlets sampled at the third subculture phase. The mother plant, in vitro normal plantlets, and in vitro abnormal plantlets (somaclonal variants) of four sugarcane clones were screened against 16 MSAP selective primers for EcoRI/MspI and EcoRI/HpaII restriction enzymes. A total of 1005 and 1200 MSAP-derived markers with polymorphism percentages of 28.36 and 40.67 were obtained for EcoRI/HpaII and EcoRI/MspI restriction enzyme combinations, respectively. The genetic similarity between the mother plant and the somaclonal variants ranged from 0.877 to 0.911 (EcoRI/MspI) and from 0.928 to 0.955 (EcoRI/HpaII). Most of the MASPs among mother plant and micro-propagated plantlets were derived from EcoRI/MspI restriction enzymes suggesting alteration due to gain or loss of internal cytosine methylation. A higher rate of loss of methylation (hypomethylation) than gain of methylation (hypermethylation) was observed in the abnormal in vitro sugarcane plantlets. Although changes in the methylation pattern were also observed in the in vitro normal plantlets, they were lower than those observed for the in vitro abnormal plantlets. The MASP technique proved to be a promising tool to early assessment of genetic fidelity of micro-propagated sugarcane plants.

Destruction of PCDD/Fs by SCR from flue gases of municipal waste incinerator and metal smelting plant.

PubMed

Chang, Moo Been; Chi, Kai Hsien; Chang, Shu Hao; Yeh, Jhy Wei

2007-01-01

Partitioning of PCDD/F congeners between vapor/solid phases and removal and destruction efficiencies achieved with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system for PCDD/Fs at an existing municipal waste incinerator (MWI) and metal smelting plant (MSP) in Taiwan are evaluated via stack sampling and analysis. The MWI investigated is equipped with electrostatic precipitators (EP, operating temperature: 230 degrees C), wet scrubbers (WS, operating temperature: 70 degrees C) and SCR (operating temperature: 220 degrees C) as major air pollution control devices (APCDs). PCDD/F concentration measured at stack gas of the MWI investigated is 0.728 ng-TEQ/Nm(3). The removal efficiency of WS+SCR system for PCDD/Fs reaches 93% in the MWI investigated. The MSP investigated is equipped with EP (operating temperature: 240 degrees C) and SCR (operating temperature: 290 degrees C) as APCDs. The flue gas sampling results also indicate that PCDD/F concentration treated with SCR is 1.35 ng-TEQ/Nm(3). The SCR system adopted in MSP can remove 52.3% PCDD/Fs from flue gases (SCR operating temperature: 290 degrees C, Gas flow rate: 660 kN m(3)/h). In addition, the distributions of PCDD/F congeners observed in the flue gases of the MWI and MSP investigated are significantly different. This study also indicates that the PCDD/F congeners measured in the flue gases of those two facilities are mostly distributed in vapor phase prior to the SCR system and shift to solid phase (vapor-phase PCDD/Fs are effectively decomposed) after being treated with catalyst. Besides, the results also indicate that with SCR highly chlorinated PCDD/F congeners can be transformed to lowly chlorinated PCDD/F congeners probably by dechlorination, while the removal efficiencies of vapor-phase PCDD/Fs increase with increasing chlorination.

The green bank northern celestial cap pulsar survey. I. Survey description, data analysis, and initial results

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

Stovall, K.; Dartez, L. P.; Ford, A. J.

We describe an ongoing search for pulsars and dispersed pulses of radio emission, such as those from rotating radio transients (RRATs) and fast radio bursts, at 350 MHz using the Green Bank Telescope. With the Green Bank Ultimate Pulsar Processing Instrument, we record 100 MHz of bandwidth divided into 4096 channels every 81.92 μs. This survey will cover the entire sky visible to the Green Bank Telescope (δ > –40°, or 82% of the sky) and outside of the Galactic Plane will be sensitive enough to detect slow pulsars and low dispersion measure (<30 pc cm{sup –3}) millisecond pulsars (MSPs)more » with a 0.08 duty cycle down to 1.1 mJy. For pulsars with a spectral index of –1.6, we will be 2.5 times more sensitive than previous and ongoing surveys over much of our survey region. Here we describe the survey, the data analysis pipeline, initial discovery parameters for 62 pulsars, and timing solutions for 5 new pulsars. PSR J0214+5222 is an MSP in a long-period (512 days) orbit and has an optical counterpart identified in archival data. PSR J0636+5129 is an MSP in a very short-period (96 minutes) orbit with a very low mass companion (8 M{sub J}). PSR J0645+5158 is an isolated MSP with a timing residual RMS of 500 ns and has been added to pulsar timing array experiments. PSR J1434+7257 is an isolated, intermediate-period pulsar that has been partially recycled. PSR J1816+4510 is an eclipsing MSP in a short-period orbit (8.7 hr) and may have recently completed its spin-up phase.« less

Heterologous Expression of Gene of Interest Using the Marine Protozoan Perkinsus marinus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cold, E. R.

2016-02-01

Perkinsus marinus is a marine protozoan parasite that causes "Dermo" disease in eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica). P. marinus is closely related to Plasmodium falciparum which causes malaria. A recent study has showed that P. marinus causes no pathology damage but an immune response in humanized mouse, providing the bases for a genetically modified P. marinus expressing Plasmodium genes to be used as a vaccination delivery system for malaria and other pathogenic diseases. A modified plasmid vector (pMOE-GFP) based on highly expressed gene tagged with green fluorescence protein and targeted to P. marinus cell wall was used to clone MSP8 and HAP2. MSP8 encodes for merozoite surface in P. falciparum and HAP2 is essential for fusion of male and female gametes; genetic disruption of the HAP2 locus revealed that parasite fertilization is prevented. Using electroporation, MSP8 and HAP2 plasmid were introduced into the P. marinus trophozoites. As controls pMOE-GFP was transfected into P. mediterraneus, P. atlanticus and P. chesapeaki. Transfection conditions included 5x107 Perkinsus trophozoites and 10 µg of plasmid using Nucleofector® technology (D-023 program). The cells were recovered in 3 mL of Perkinsus culture media and transfected trophozoites were examined for green fluorescence. To facilitate subcloning of cells expressing GFP, we optimized a DME: HAM's F12 -5% FBS -containing agar solid medium for plating Perkinsus. Examination of all transfected cells indicates expression of both MSP8 and HAP2. This is the first time that genes of a protozoan parasite have been expressed in a marine protozoan. It was also concluded that P. mediterraneus, P. atlanticus and P. chesapeaki were stable mutation and can be isolated for further research.

Metabolic regulation as a consequence of anaerobic 5-methylthioadenosine recycling in Rhodospirillum rubrum

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

North, Justin A.; Sriram, Jaya; Chourey, Karuna

Rhodospirillum rubrum possesses a novel oxygen-independent, aerobic methionine salvage pathway (MSP) for recycling methionine from 5-methylthioadenosine (MTA), the MTA-isoprenoid shunt. This organism can also metabolize MTA as a sulfur source under anaerobic conditions, suggesting that the MTA-isoprenoid shunt may also function anaerobically as well. In this study, deep proteomics profiling, directed metabolite analysis, and reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) revealed metabolic changes in response to anaerobic growth on MTA versus sulfate as sole sulfur source. The abundance of protein levels associated with methionine transport, cell motility, and chemotaxis increased in the presence of MTA over that in the presence ofmore » sulfate. Purine salvage from MTA resulted primarily in hypoxanthine accumulation and a decrease in protein levels involved in GMP-to-AMP conversion to balance purine pools. Acyl coenzyme A (acyl-CoA) metabolic protein levels for lipid metabolism were lower in abundance, whereas poly-β-hydroxybutyrate synthesis and storage were increased nearly 10-fold. The known R. rubrum aerobic MSP was also shown to be upregulated, to function anaerobically, and to recycle MTA. This suggested that other organisms with gene homologues for the MTA-isoprenoid shunt may also possess a functioning anaerobic MSP. In support of our previous findings that ribulose-1,5-carboxylase/oxygenase (RubisCO) is required for an apparently purely anaerobic MSP, RubisCO transcript and protein levels both increased in abundance by over 10-fold in cells grown anaerobically on MTA over those in cells grown on sulfate, resulting in increased intracellular RubisCO activity. Lastly, these results reveal for the first time global metabolic responses as a consequence of anaerobic MTA metabolism compared to using sulfate as the sulfur source.« less

Muscular strength profile in Tunisian male national judo team

PubMed Central

Ghrairi, Mourad; Hammouda, Omar; Malliaropoulos, Nikos

2014-01-01

Summary Background: it is well established that muscle strength is a determinant factor in judo. However, little data are available for African athletes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to provide reference data of the muscular strength profile (MSP) for an African team, Tunisian judo team. Methods: the study was conducted among ten international judo athletes from Tunisia. To determine their MSP, we used an isokinetic dynamometer to assess Hamstrings, Quadriceps of both knees and external, internal rotators of both shoulders. The angular velocities of the assessments were; 90, 180, 240°/s for the knees and 60, 120°/s for the shoulders. Results: MSP was determined based on two parameters; the maximum peak torque (PT) of each muscle and the ratio agonistic/antagonistic muscles (R). The knee extensors and flexors in the “supporting leg” had higher PT than in the “attacking leg”; respectively, 245N.m versus 237 (p<0.05) and 147 N.m versus 145 (p>0.05). R was normal for both legs. Furthermore, both rotators of the dominant shoulder had higher PT; 84 N.m versus 71 for the internal rotators (p<0.05) and 34,7 N.m versus 29,0 for the lateral rotators (p<0.05). Inversely, R was higher in the non-dominant side; 45% versus 35, p<0.05). Conclusion: the MSP of the selected elites Tunisian judo athletes was characterized by 3 major features; a strength of the quadriceps in the standing leg significantly higher than in the attacking leg, a normal muscular balance Hamstrings/quadriceps in both legs and a strength of the shoulder’ rotators higher in the dominant side. PMID:25332926

UV-Vis microspectrophotometry as a method of differentiation between cotton fibre evidence coloured with reactive dyes.

PubMed

Was-Gubala, Jolanta; Starczak, Roza

2015-05-05

The main purposes of this study was to assess the usefulness of microspectrophotometry (MSP), both in the ultraviolet (UV) and visible (Vis) range for discriminating single cotton fibres dyed with reactive dyes coming from the same manufacturer, as well as the possibility of evaluation of the concentration of dye in an examine fibre. This study utilised woven cotton fabrics dyed with different concentrations of one-compound reactive dyes with the commercial name Cibacron® (at present Novacron®) as the focus of the MSP analysis. The spectra were recorded in the UV-Vis range between 200 and 800nm, in transmission mode. The results from this study illustrated that all of the analysed cotton samples dyed with reactive dyes were distinguishable between each other with the use of MSP, mostly in the visible, and also in ultraviolet range. The limit for applied MSP techniques was 0.18% of the concentration of a dye in the textile sample. The results indicate that based on the absorbance measurements for fibres constituting e.g. forensic traces it was not possible to estimate the concentration of the dye in the fibre because Beer's law did not obey. The intra-sample, and inter- sample variation, as well as dichroism effect in a case of a cotton fibres dyed with reactive dye were observed. On the basis of the results obtained for each analysed cotton sample, it was concluded that there was no correlation between colour uniformity in cotton fabric (changes in lightness, red/green and yellow/blue colour) and concentration of the reactive dye. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dose-response relationship between sports activity and musculoskeletal pain in adolescents.

PubMed

Kamada, Masamitsu; Abe, Takafumi; Kitayuguchi, Jun; Imamura, Fumiaki; Lee, I-Min; Kadowaki, Masaru; Sawada, Susumu S; Miyachi, Motohiko; Matsui, Yuzuru; Uchio, Yuji

2016-06-01

Physical activity has multiple health benefits but may also increase the risk of developing musculoskeletal pain (MSP). However, the relationship between physical activity and MSP has not been well characterized. This study examined the dose-response relationship between sports activity and MSP among adolescents. Two school-based serial surveys were conducted 1 year apart in adolescents aged 12 to 18 years in Unnan, Japan. Self-administered questionnaires were completed by 2403 students. Associations between time spent in organized sports activity and MSP were analyzed cross-sectionally (n = 2403) and longitudinally (n = 374, students free of pain and in seventh or 10th grade at baseline) with repeated-measures Poisson regression and restricted cubic splines, with adjustment for potential confounders. The prevalence of overall pain, defined as having pain recently at least several times a week in at least one part of the body, was 27.4%. In the cross-sectional analysis, sports activity was significantly associated with pain prevalence. Each additional 1 h/wk of sports activity was associated with a 3% higher probability of having pain (prevalence ratio = 1.03, 95% confidence interval = 1.02-1.04). Similar trends were found across causes (traumatic and nontraumatic pain) and anatomic locations (upper limbs, lower back, and lower limbs). In longitudinal analysis, the risk ratio for developing pain at 1-year follow-up per 1 h/wk increase in baseline sports activity was 1.03 (95% confidence interval = 1.02-1.05). Spline models indicated a linear association (P < 0.001) but not a nonlinear association (P ≥ 0.45). The more the adolescents played sports, the more likely they were to have and develop pain.

Dose–response relationship between sports activity and musculoskeletal pain in adolescents

PubMed Central

Kamada, Masamitsu; Abe, Takafumi; Kitayuguchi, Jun; Imamura, Fumiaki; Lee, I-Min; Kadowaki, Masaru; Sawada, Susumu S.; Miyachi, Motohiko; Matsui, Yuzuru; Uchio, Yuji

2016-01-01

Abstract Physical activity has multiple health benefits but may also increase the risk of developing musculoskeletal pain (MSP). However, the relationship between physical activity and MSP has not been well characterized. This study examined the dose–response relationship between sports activity and MSP among adolescents. Two school-based serial surveys were conducted 1 year apart in adolescents aged 12 to 18 years in Unnan, Japan. Self-administered questionnaires were completed by 2403 students. Associations between time spent in organized sports activity and MSP were analyzed cross-sectionally (n = 2403) and longitudinally (n = 374, students free of pain and in seventh or 10th grade at baseline) with repeated-measures Poisson regression and restricted cubic splines, with adjustment for potential confounders. The prevalence of overall pain, defined as having pain recently at least several times a week in at least one part of the body, was 27.4%. In the cross-sectional analysis, sports activity was significantly associated with pain prevalence. Each additional 1 h/wk of sports activity was associated with a 3% higher probability of having pain (prevalence ratio = 1.03, 95% confidence interval = 1.02-1.04). Similar trends were found across causes (traumatic and nontraumatic pain) and anatomic locations (upper limbs, lower back, and lower limbs). In longitudinal analysis, the risk ratio for developing pain at 1-year follow-up per 1 h/wk increase in baseline sports activity was 1.03 (95% confidence interval = 1.02-1.05). Spline models indicated a linear association (P < 0.001) but not a nonlinear association (P ≥ 0.45). The more the adolescents played sports, the more likely they were to have and develop pain. PMID:26894915

Inquiry in conversation: Exploring the multiple solution pathway (MSP) lesson structure as a means to progressive discourse in the science classroom

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Criswell, Brett A.

This exploratory, descriptive study examined the way five chemistry teachers from four different schools enacted their visions of an activity labeled as the multiple solution pathway (MSP) lesson structure -- one in which students were given a relevant problem to solve and the opportunity to propose and explore several solutions to the problem. A theoretical and analytical framework for characterizing what transpired within these enactments was developed mainly out of Bereiter's principle of progressive discourse and its accompanying commitments, but also by drawing on Peirce's fallibilist epistemology, Gal'perin's notion of the orienting basis of an action, and Davydov's distinction between empirical and theoretical generalizations. Data from utterance-level discourse analysis of the videotaped lessons, supplemented by pre- and post-lesson interviews with both students and teachers was used to answer the research question: What is the nature of the interactions that occur during Multiple Solution Pathway (MSP) lessons and how are those interactions related to the structure of activity and the way in which ideas are explored within those lessons? The data showed that there were two general structures of activity utilized by the five teachers and that these different structures impacted the extent to which two of the progressive discourse commitments (expansion and openness) were supported. It also indicated that the teachers likely operated off a 'teacher as evaluator' metaphor and a discrepant event vision of the way the lesson should unfold, both features of which limited the extent to which progressive discourse was maintained in these lessons. Pedagogical implications for more fully realizing the potential of the MSP structure are presented.

First molecular detection and phylogenetic analysis of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in shelter dogs in Seoul, Korea.

PubMed

Lee, Sukyee; Lee, Seung-Hun; VanBik, Dorene; Kim, Neung-Hee; Kim, Kyoo-Tae; Goo, Youn-Kyoung; Rhee, Man Hee; Kwon, Oh-Deog; Kwak, Dongmi

2016-07-01

In this study, the status of Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection was assessed in shelter dogs in Seoul, Korea, with PCR and phylogenetic analyses. Nested PCR on 1058 collected blood samples revealed only one A. phagocytophilum positive sample (female, age <1year, mixed breed, collected from the north of the Han River). The genetic variability of A. phagocytophilum was evaluated by genotyping, using the 16S rRNA, groEL, and msp2 gene sequences of the positive sample. BLASTn analysis revealed that the 16S rRNA, groEL, and msp2 genes had 99.6%, 99.9%, and 100% identity with the following sequences deposited in GenBank: a cat 16S rRNA sequence from Korea (KR021166), a rat groEL sequence from Korea (KT220194), and a water deer msp2 sequence from Korea (HM752099), respectively. Phylogenetic analyses classified the groEL gene into two distinct groups (serine and alanine), whereas the msp2 gene showed a general classification into two groups (USA and Europe) that were further subgrouped according to region. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to describe the molecular diagnosis of A. phagocytophilum in dogs reared in Korea. In addition, the high genetic identity of the 16S rRNA and groEL sequences between humans and dogs from the same region suggests a possible epidemiological relation. Given the conditions of climate change, tick ecology, and recent incidence of human granulocytic anaplasmosis in Korea, the findings of this study underscore the need to establish appropriate control programs for tick-borne diseases in Korea. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Teratology study of amide derivatives of branched aliphatic carboxylic acids with 4-aminobenzensulfonamide in NMRI mice.

PubMed

Onishi, Yuko; Okada, Akinobu; Noyori, Hiroko; Okamura, Ai; Hen, Naama; Yagen, Boris; Bialer, Meir; Fujiwara, Michio

2013-08-01

Valproic acid (VPA), widely used to treat epilepsy, bipolar disorders, and migraine prophylaxis, is known to cause neural tube and skeletal defects in humans and animals. Aminobenzensulfonamide derivatives of VPA with branched aliphatic carboxylic acids, namely 2-methyl-N-(4-sulfamoyl-phenyl)-pentanamide (MSP), 2-ethyl-N-(4-sulfamoyl-phenyl)-butyramide (ESB), 2-ethyl-4-methyl-N-(4-sulfamoyl-phenyl)-pentanamide (EMSP), and 2-ethyl-N-(4-sulfamoyl-benzyl)-butyramide (ESBB), have shown more potent anticonvulsant activity than VPA in preclinical testing. Here, we investigated the teratogenic effects of these analogous compounds of VPA in NMRI mice. Pregnant NMRI mice were given a single subcutaneous injection of either VPA at 1.8 or 3.6 mmol/kg, or MSP, ESB, EMSP, or ESBB at 1.8, 3.6, or 4.8 mmol/kg on gestation day (GD) 8. Cesarean section was performed on GD 18, and the live fetuses were examined for external and skeletal malformations. Compared with VPA, which induced neural tube defects (NTDs) in fetuses at 1.8 and 3.6 mmol/kg, the analog derivatives induced no NTDs at dose levels up to 4.8 mmol/kg (except for a single case of exencephaly at 4.8 mmol/kg MSP). Skeletal examination showed several abnormalities mainly at the axial skeletal level with VPA at 1.8 mmol/kg. Fused vertebrae and/or fused ribs were also observed with MSP, ESB, EMSP, and ESBB, they were less severe and seen at a lower incidence that those induced by VPA at the same dose level. In addition to exerting more potent preclinical antiepileptic activity, teratology comparison indicates that aminobenzensulfonamide analogs are generally more weakly teratogenic than VPA. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The precipitation of magnesium potassium phosphate hexahydrate for P and K recovery from synthetic urine.

PubMed

Xu, Kangning; Li, Jiyun; Zheng, Min; Zhang, Chi; Xie, Tao; Wang, Chengwen

2015-09-01

Nutrients recovery from urine to close the nutrient loop is one of the most attractive benefits of source separation in wastewater management. The current study presents an investigation of the thermodynamic modeling of the recovery of P and K from synthetic urine via the precipitation of magnesium potassium phosphate hexahydrate (MPP). Experimental results show that maximum recovery efficiencies of P and K reached 99% and 33%, respectively, when the precipitation process was initiated only through adding dissolvable Mg compound source. pH level and molar ratio of Mg:P were key factors determining the nutrient recovery efficiencies. Precipitation equilibrium of MPP and magnesium sodium phosphate heptahydrate (MSP) was confirmed via precipitates analysis using a Scanning Electron Microscope/Energy Dispersive Spectrometer and an X-ray Diffractometer. Then, the standard solubility products of MPP and MSP in the synthetic urine were estimated to be 10(-12.2 ± 0.0.253) and 10(-11.6 ± 0.253), respectively. The thermodynamic model formulated on chemical software PHREEQC could well fit the experimental results via comparing the simulated and measured concentrations of K and P in equilibrium. Precipitation potentials of three struvite-type compounds were calculated through thermodynamic modeling. Magnesium ammonium phosphate hexahydrate (MAP) has a much higher tendency to precipitate than MPP and MSP in normal urine while MSP was the main inhibitor of MPP in ammonium-removed urine. To optimize the K recovery, ammonium should be removed prior as much as possible and an alternative alkaline compound should be explored for pH adjustment rather than NaOH. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

O6-Methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase protein expression by immunohistochemistry in brain and non-brain systemic tumours: systematic review and meta-analysis of correlation with methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction.

PubMed

Brell, Marta; Ibáñez, Javier; Tortosa, Avelina

2011-01-26

The DNA repair protein O6-Methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) confers resistance to alkylating agents. Several methods have been applied to its analysis, with methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP) the most commonly used for promoter methylation study, while immunohistochemistry (IHC) has become the most frequently used for the detection of MGMT protein expression. Agreement on the best and most reliable technique for evaluating MGMT status remains unsettled. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the correlation between IHC and MSP. A computer-aided search of MEDLINE (1950-October 2009), EBSCO (1966-October 2009) and EMBASE (1974-October 2009) was performed for relevant publications. Studies meeting inclusion criteria were those comparing MGMT protein expression by IHC with MGMT promoter methylation by MSP in the same cohort of patients. Methodological quality was assessed by using the QUADAS and STARD instruments. Previously published guidelines were followed for meta-analysis performance. Of 254 studies identified as eligible for full-text review, 52 (20.5%) met the inclusion criteria. The review showed that results of MGMT protein expression by IHC are not in close agreement with those obtained with MSP. Moreover, type of tumour (primary brain tumour vs others) was an independent covariate of accuracy estimates in the meta-regression analysis beyond the cut-off value. Protein expression assessed by IHC alone fails to reflect the promoter methylation status of MGMT. Thus, in attempts at clinical diagnosis the two methods seem to select different groups of patients and should not be used interchangeably.

Objective measurement of motor speech characteristics in the healthy pediatric population.

PubMed

Wong, A W; Allegro, J; Tirado, Y; Chadha, N; Campisi, P

2011-12-01

To obtain objective measurements of motor speech characteristics in normal children, using a computer-based motor speech software program. Cross-sectional, observational design in a university-based ambulatory pediatric otolaryngology clinic. Participants included 112 subjects (54 females and 58 males) aged 4-18 years. Participants with previously diagnosed hearing loss, voice and motor disorders, and children unable to repeat a passage in English were excluded. Voice samples were recorded and analysed using the Motor Speech Profile (MSP) software (KayPENTAX, Lincoln Park, NJ). The MSP produced measures of diadochokinetics, second formant transition, intonation, and syllabic rates. Demographic data, including sex, age, and cigarette smoke exposure were obtained. Normative data for several motor speech characteristics were derived for children ranging from age 4 to 18 years. A number of age-dependent changes were indentified, including an increase in average diadochokinetic rate (p<0.001) and standard syllabic duration (p<0.001) with age. There were no identified differences in motor speech characteristics between males and females across the measured age range. Variations in fundamental frequency (Fo) during speech did not change significantly with age for both males and females. To our knowledge, this is the first pediatric normative database for the MSP progam. The MSP is suitable for testing children and can be used to study developmental changes in motor speech. The analysis demonstrated that males and females behave similarly and show the same relationship with age for the motor speech characteristics studied. This normative database will provide essential comparative data for future studies exploring alterations in motor speech that may occur with hearing, voice, and motor disorders and to assess the results of targeted therapies. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Metabolic Regulation as a Consequence of Anaerobic 5-Methylthioadenosine Recycling in Rhodospirillum rubrum

PubMed Central

North, Justin A.; Sriram, Jaya; Chourey, Karuna; Ecker, Christopher D.; Sharma, Ritin; Wildenthal, John A.; Hettich, Robert L.

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Rhodospirillum rubrum possesses a novel oxygen-independent, aerobic methionine salvage pathway (MSP) for recycling methionine from 5-methylthioadenosine (MTA), the MTA-isoprenoid shunt. This organism can also metabolize MTA as a sulfur source under anaerobic conditions, suggesting that the MTA-isoprenoid shunt may also function anaerobically as well. In this study, deep proteomics profiling, directed metabolite analysis, and reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) revealed metabolic changes in response to anaerobic growth on MTA versus sulfate as sole sulfur source. The abundance of protein levels associated with methionine transport, cell motility, and chemotaxis increased in the presence of MTA over that in the presence of sulfate. Purine salvage from MTA resulted primarily in hypoxanthine accumulation and a decrease in protein levels involved in GMP-to-AMP conversion to balance purine pools. Acyl coenzyme A (acyl-CoA) metabolic protein levels for lipid metabolism were lower in abundance, whereas poly-β-hydroxybutyrate synthesis and storage were increased nearly 10-fold. The known R. rubrum aerobic MSP was also shown to be upregulated, to function anaerobically, and to recycle MTA. This suggested that other organisms with gene homologues for the MTA-isoprenoid shunt may also possess a functioning anaerobic MSP. In support of our previous findings that ribulose-1,5-carboxylase/oxygenase (RubisCO) is required for an apparently purely anaerobic MSP, RubisCO transcript and protein levels both increased in abundance by over 10-fold in cells grown anaerobically on MTA over those in cells grown on sulfate, resulting in increased intracellular RubisCO activity. These results reveal for the first time global metabolic responses as a consequence of anaerobic MTA metabolism compared to using sulfate as the sulfur source. PMID:27406564

Transitions de phase dans le oxyde de yttrium vanadium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roberge, Benoit

Dans le mémoire qui suit, les ordres structural, magnétiques et orbital dans le YVO3 sont étudiés avec l'aide de la diffraction des rayons X,de la spectroscopie Raman et de la technique de la cavité résonnante hyperfréquence. L'objectif premier consiste à observer l'évolution de ces ordres en fonction de la température. Le mémoire met ensuite en évidence le couplage entre les différents ordres cohabitants dans le YVO3 . Les mesures effectuées par la diffraction des rayons X permettent de mesurer le caractère polycrystallin des échantillons du YVO 3. Une comparaison de nos mesures avec des mesures de diffraction des rayons X faites sur la poudre de YVO3 indique la faible présence de maclage. Les mesures effectuées avec la technique de résonnance hyperfréquence permettent de suivre l'évolution de la constante diélectrique en fonction de la température. Les changements impliquant l'ordre orbital se manifestent de manière évidente dans la constante diélectrique à 200 K et à 77 K. La transition diélectrique détectée à 77 K est une transition de premier ordre. Un couplage entre les propriétés diélectriques et magnétiques est observable à la température de Néel à 114 K. L'effet d'un champ magnétique fixe sur la température de transition de l'ordre orbital survenant à 77 K est également remarquable. Cela indique un couplage magnétodiélectrique démontrant ainsi le caractère multiferroïque du YVO 3. Finalement, l'observation d'un mécanisme de relaxation pouvant être modélisé par le modèle d'Havriliak-Negami est observé en dessous de 77 K. En utilisant le modèle d'Arrhénius et le modèle d'Havriliak-Negami, on peut caractériser le mécanisme avec son énergie d'activation et son temps de relaxation. Les mesures effectuées en spectroscopie Raman permettent de suivre l'évolution de la structure du YVO3 en fonction de la température. Les deux changements structuraux survenant à 200 K et 77 K sont observés. Le couplage entre le réseau et l'ordre orbital se manifeste par une augmentation de l'anharmonicité qui se traduit par une augmentation de l'intensité des processus de deuxième et troisième ordres. Les différentes théories expliquant comment l'ordre orbital interagit avec le réseau cristallin seront abordées en mettant l'accent sur la théorie de Van den Brink ['] qui réflète le mieux la réalité. Une comparaison de nos mesures avec d'autres travaux en spectroscopie Raman effectués sur le YVO3 sera également effectuée. Le couplage entre le réseau et l'ordre magnétique s'observe par la présence d'excitations magnétiques dans les spectres Raman et par la présence d'un ramollissement/durcissement survenant à la température de Néel. La théorie de Granado expliquant le phénomène de durcissement/ramollissement sera discutée.

LigaSure vessel sealing system in laparoscopic Palomo varicocele ligation in children and adolescents.

PubMed

Marte, Antonio; Sabatino, Maria Domenica; Borrelli, Micaela; Cautiero, Pasquale; Romano, Mercedes; Vessella, Antonio; Parmeggiani, Pio

2007-04-01

We review our experience with laparoscopic Palomo varicocele ligation using the LigaSure device in children and adolescents. Between June 2003 and December 2004, 25 varicoceles were treated by laparoscopic Palomo varicocele ligation using LigaSure vascular sealing. Patient ages ranged from 10 to 19 years (mean, 14.5 years). Indications for surgery included grade II-III varicocele or ipsilateral testicular hypotrophy. One patient was affected by recurrent contralateral inguinal hernia and 2 presented with an ipsilateral patent processus vaginalis. We placed a 5-mm umbilical port for access, and kept pneumoperitoneum below 15 mm Hg. Under laparoscopic guidance, two additional ports of 3 and 5 mm were inserted in the lower right and left quadrants, respectively. Once the vessels were isolated, the vascular sealant was applied 3-4 times to ensure coagulation of the spermatic vessels; the vessels were then divided with laparoscopic 5-mm scissors. Inguinal hernia and patent processus vaginalis were treated according to Schier's technique. All procedures were performed in our day surgery facility. Mean operative time was 18 minutes, which is significantly less than the time required in a similar group of 12 patients who underwent laparoscopic clip ligation. There were no perioperative complications. Eleven of 16 patients recovered testicular size. Two patients had postoperative hydrocele: the first was treated successfully with scrotal aspiration, while the other patient required scrotal hydrocelectomy. Laparoscopic Palomo varicocele sealing can be performed safely and rapidly and is highly successful in correcting varicoceles in young males. We also found it to be the ideal technique to correct the associated inguinal hernia or patent processus vaginalis.

New frontiers in H-Beta auroral photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Unick, C.; Donovan, E.; Connors, M. G.; Spanswick, E.; Jackel, B. J.; Greffen, M. J.; Wilson, C.; Little, J.; Chaddock, D.; Schofield, I.; MacRae, A.; Chen, S.; Crowther, A.; James, S.; Read, A.; Willis, T.

2013-12-01

The proton aurora provides valuable information about magnetotail structure and dynamics. For example, the location of the equatorward boundary of the proton aurora is a robust indicator of magnetotail stretching. Also, proton auroral luminosities combined with in situ ion measurements provide important information about magnetic mapping between the inner CPS and the auroral ionosphere. In this paper, we present a new and innovative proton-auroral (H-Beta) meridian-scanning photometer (MSP) capable of higher spatial and temporal resolution than has been achieved in the past. This H-Beta MSP is the first of a new dual-wavelength (signal/background) MSP design with a single scanning mirror and no other moving parts. The novel filtering architecture allows for a near 100% duty cycle with a 30-second meridian scan and configurable operating modes. The new design is significantly more sensitive than the legacy CANOPUS MSPs. The increased SNR can be employed in a variety of ways, such as to achieve significantly higher time resolution. Here, we present the new instrument design, test data from a commissioning campaign in Athabasca, and some thoughts on how the enhance proton auroral capability can increase the science value of these measurements.

Effect of CoFeB electrode compositions on low frequency magnetic noise in tunneling magnetoresistance sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wisniowski, P.; Dabek, M.; Wrona, J.; Cardoso, S.; Freitas, P. P.

2017-12-01

We study the effect of CoFeB electrode compositions on frequency dependent magnetic noise in tunneling magnetoresistance sensors with variable field sensitivity. We use the relationship between the normalized 1/f noise parameter (αt) and the magnetoresistance sensitivity product (MSP) to compare the magnetic noise of sensors with Co40Fe40B20, Co60Fe20B20, and Co20Fe60B20 electrodes. We observed the lowest slope of the αt vs. MSP curve of 9.1 × 10-13 μm3 T and a 1/f noise corner as low as 300 Hz for the sensors with Co60Fe20B20 electrodes. Furthermore, all sensors at a specific value of the magnetoresistance sensitivity product showed a deviation from the linear relationship between αt and MSP. The results show that in the design of high sensitivity CoFeB-MgO-CoFeB based tunneling magnetoresistance sensors for low field detection, selection of CoFeB electrodes is important and can be used to significantly improve the low frequency field detection limit.

Physics of systems containing neutron stars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ruderman, Malvin

1996-01-01

This grant dealt with several topics related to the dynamics of systems containing a compact object. Most of the research dealt with systems containing Neutron Stars (NS's), but a Black Hole (BH) or a White Dwarf (WD) in situations relevant to NS systems were also addressed. Among the systems were isolated regular pulsars, Millisecond Pulsars (MSP's) that are either Single (SMP's) or in a binary (BMP's), Low Mass X-Ray Binaries (LMXB's) and Cataclysmic Variables (CV's). Also dealt with was one aspect of NS structure, namely NS superfluidity. A large fraction of the research dealt with irradiation-driven winds from companions which turned out to be of importance in the evolution of LMXB's and MSP's, be they SMP's or BMP's. While their role during LMXB evolution (i.e. during the accretion phase) is not yet clear, they may play an important role in turning BMP's into SMP's and also in bringing about the formation of planets around MSP's. Work was concentrated on the following four problems: The Windy Pulsar B197+20 and its Evolution; Wind 'Echoes' in Tight Binaries; Post Nova X-ray Emission in CV's; and Dynamics of Pinned Superfluids in Neutron Stars.

Integration at the round table: marine spatial planning in multi-stakeholder settings.

PubMed

Olsen, Erik; Fluharty, David; Hoel, Alf Håkon; Hostens, Kristian; Maes, Frank; Pecceu, Ellen

2014-01-01

Marine spatial planning (MSP) is often considered as a pragmatic approach to implement an ecosystem based management in order to manage marine space in a sustainable way. This requires the involvement of multiple actors and stakeholders at various governmental and societal levels. Several factors affect how well the integrated management of marine waters will be achieved, such as different governance settings (division of power between central and local governments), economic activities (and related priorities), external drivers, spatial scales, incentives and objectives, varying approaches to legislation and political will. We compared MSP in Belgium, Norway and the US to illustrate how the integration of stakeholders and governmental levels differs among these countries along the factors mentioned above. Horizontal integration (between sectors) is successful in all three countries, achieved through the use of neutral 'round-table' meeting places for all actors. Vertical integration between government levels varies, with Belgium and Norway having achieved full integration while the US lacks integration of the legislature due to sharp disagreements among stakeholders and unsuccessful partisan leadership. Success factors include political will and leadership, process transparency and stakeholder participation, and should be considered in all MSP development processes.

The genetic polymorphism of merozoite surface protein-1 in Plasmodium falciparum isolates from Aceh province, Indonesia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jamil, K. F.; Supargiyono, S.; Syafruddin, D.; Pratama, N.; Silvy, S.

2018-03-01

An estimated of 3.3 million Indonesian population were infected with malaria. However, extensive genetic polymorphism of the field isolates msp-1 of P. falciparum represents a major obstacle for the development of malaria treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic diversity of msp-1 genotype in field isolates of P. falciparum collected in Aceh Province. A total of 90 patients with malaria (+) were selected from eleven district hospitals in Aceh from 2013-2015. Data were collected by anamnesis, complete physical examination and laboratory tests for msp-1. All protocols to diagnose malaria followed the WHO 2010 guideline. All samples were stored in Eijkman Biology Molecular Institute, Jakarta. Among 90 samples, 57.7% were male, and 42.3% were female with the most cases found between 21-30 years old. From the allele typing analysis of P. falciparum from Aceh; K1, MAD20, and RO33 allele types were identified. MAD20 type was the highest allele found in this study (57.9%). It was found in single and mixed infection. A moderate level of the mixed allele was also observed.

The Tubular Sheaths Encasing Methanosaeta thermophila Filaments Are Functional Amyloids*

PubMed Central

Dueholm, Morten S.; Larsen, Poul; Finster, Kai; Stenvang, Marcel R.; Christiansen, Gunna; Vad, Brian S.; Bøggild, Andreas; Otzen, Daniel E.; Nielsen, Per Halkjær

2015-01-01

Archaea are renowned for their ability to thrive in extreme environments, although they can be found in virtually all habitats. Their adaptive success is linked to their unique cell envelopes that are extremely resistant to chemical and thermal denaturation and that resist proteolysis by common proteases. Here we employ amyloid-specific conformation antibodies and biophysical techniques to show that the extracellular cell wall sheaths encasing the methanogenic archaea Methanosaeta thermophila PT are functional amyloids. Depolymerization of sheaths and subsequent MS/MS analyses revealed that the sheaths are composed of a single major sheath protein (MspA). The amyloidogenic nature of MspA was confirmed by in vitro amyloid formation of recombinant MspA under a wide range of environmental conditions. This is the first report of a functional amyloid from the archaeal domain of life. The amyloid nature explains the extreme resistance of the sheath, the elastic properties that allow diffusible substrates to penetrate through expandable hoop boundaries, and how the sheaths are able to split and elongate outside the cell. The archaeal sheath amyloids do not share homology with any of the currently known functional amyloids and clearly represent a new function of the amyloid protein fold. PMID:26109065

Passive smoking, Cyp1A1 gene polymorphism and dysmenorrhea

PubMed Central

Liu, Hong; Yang, Fan; Li, Zhiping; Chen, Changzhong; Fang, Zhian; Wang, Lihua; Hu, Yonghua; Chen, Dafang

2007-01-01

Objective This study investigated whether the association between passive smoking exposure and dysmenorrhea is modified by two susceptibility genes, CYP1A1MspI and CYP1A1HincII. Methods This report includes 1645 (1124 no dysmenorrhea, 521 dysmenorrhea) nonsmoking and nondrinking newly wed female workers at Anqing, China between June 1997 and June 2000. Multiple logistic regression models were used to estimate the associations of passive smoking exposure and genetic susceptibility with dysmenorrhea, adjusting for perceived stress. Results When stratified by women genotype, the adjusted OR of dysmenorrhea was 1.6 (95%CI=1.3-2.1) for passive smoking group with Ile/Ile462 genotype, and 1.5 (95%CI=1.1-2.1) with C/C6235 genotype, compared to non passive smoking group, respectively. The data further showed that there was a significant combined effect between passive smoking and the CYP1A1 Msp1 C/C6235 and HincII Ile/Ile462 genotype (OR=2.6, 95%CI=1.3-5.2). Conclusion CYP1A1 MspI and HincII genotypes modified the association between passive smoking and dysmenorrhea. PMID:17566695

Integration at the Round Table: Marine Spatial Planning in Multi-Stakeholder Settings

PubMed Central

Olsen, Erik; Fluharty, David; Hoel, Alf Håkon; Hostens, Kristian; Maes, Frank; Pecceu, Ellen

2014-01-01

Marine spatial planning (MSP) is often considered as a pragmatic approach to implement an ecosystem based management in order to manage marine space in a sustainable way. This requires the involvement of multiple actors and stakeholders at various governmental and societal levels. Several factors affect how well the integrated management of marine waters will be achieved, such as different governance settings (division of power between central and local governments), economic activities (and related priorities), external drivers, spatial scales, incentives and objectives, varying approaches to legislation and political will. We compared MSP in Belgium, Norway and the US to illustrate how the integration of stakeholders and governmental levels differs among these countries along the factors mentioned above. Horizontal integration (between sectors) is successful in all three countries, achieved through the use of neutral ‘round-table’ meeting places for all actors. Vertical integration between government levels varies, with Belgium and Norway having achieved full integration while the US lacks integration of the legislature due to sharp disagreements among stakeholders and unsuccessful partisan leadership. Success factors include political will and leadership, process transparency and stakeholder participation, and should be considered in all MSP development processes. PMID:25299595

α-Thalassaemia trait is associated with antibody prevalence against malaria antigens AMA-1 and MSP-1.

PubMed

Daou, Modibo; Kituma, Elimsaada; Kavishe, Reginald; Chilongola, Jaffu; Mosha, Frank; van der Ven, André; Kouriba, Bourema; Bousema, Teun; Sauerwein, Robert; Doumbo, Ogobaro

2015-04-01

A longitudinal study was conducted in a low endemic area in northern Tanzania to examine the influence of the α-thalassaemia trait on malaria incidence and antibody responses to malaria apical membrane antigen-1 (AMA-1) and merozoite surface protein1-19 (MSP-119). Out of 394 children genotyped for α-thalassaemia trait, 4.1% (16 of 394) and 30.7% (121 of 394) were homozygous and heterozygous, respectively. During the 1 year follow-up, four incidents of malaria cases were detected without an evident association with α-thalassaemia. Being heterozygous or homozygous for α-thalassaemia was associated with an increased prevalence of antibodies to AMA-1 [odds ratio (OR): 1.83, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.07-3.12, p = 0.027] and MSP-1 (OR: 2.04, 95% CI: 1.16-3.60, p = 0.013) after adjustment for age and reported bednet use. The observed association between α-thalassaemia and malaria antibody responses may reflect longer-term differences in antigen exposure or differences in antibody acquisition upon exposure in this low endemic setting. © The Author [2015]. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

A Qualitative Study of a Maintenance Support Program for Women at Risk of Homelessness: Part 2: Situational Factors.

PubMed

McMaster, Rose; Lopez, Violeta; Kornhaber, Rachel; Cleary, Michelle

2017-06-01

People who are homeless tend to have a number of complex needs. A housing maintenance support program (MSP) for women from the perspectives of clients, case managers and health professionals within the program was explored in this qualitative descriptive study. Interviews were conducted, and data were analysed using thematic analysis. The overarching theme that emerged from the data was "A life-changing event: I have the power to change." This theme was supported by three sub-themes: personal, situational and societal dimensions. In this article, the sub-theme - situational factors, is presented and refers to poverty, resources and services, as well as social support systems. These aspects all impinged on the client's ability to face life changes with optimism towards a better future. Their experiences of disconnection with the community changed for the clients after being part of the MSP. The MSP enabled the clients to feel part of society again, and empowered them to participate in the world around them. Key aspects of inclusion in the world are relationships based on acceptance, connecting with others, being involved and creating a sense of home/community.

Drivers of redistribution of fishing and non-fishing effort after the implementation of a marine protected area network.

PubMed

Cabral, Reniel B; Gaines, Steven D; Johnson, Brett A; Bell, Tom W; White, Crow

2017-03-01

Marine spatial planning (MSP) is increasingly utilized to sustainably manage ocean uses. Marine protected areas (MPAs), a form of spatial management in which parts of the ocean are regulated to fishing, are now a common tool in MSP for conserving marine biodiversity and managing fisheries. However, the use of MPAs in MSP often neglects, or simplifies, the redistribution of fishing and non-fishing activities inside and outside of MPAs following their implementation. This redistribution of effort can have important implications for effective MSP. Using long-term (14 yr) aerial surveys of boats at the California Channel Islands, we examined the spatial redistribution of fishing and non-fishing activities and their drivers following MPA establishment. Our data represent 6 yr of information before the implementation of an MPA network and 8 yr after implementation. Different types of boats responded in different ways to the closures, ranging from behaviors by commercial dive boats that support the hypothesis of fishing-the-line, to behaviors by urchin, sport fishing, and recreational boats that support the theory of ideal free distribution. Additionally, we found that boats engaged in recreational activities targeted areas that are sheltered from large waves and located near their home ports, while boats engaged in fishing activities also avoided high wave areas but were not constrained by the distance to their home ports. We did not observe the expected pattern of effort concentration near MPA borders for some boat types; this can be explained by the habitat preference of certain activities (for some activities, the desired habitat attributes are not inside the MPAs), species' biology (species such as urchins where the MPA benefit would likely come from larval export rather than adult spillover), or policy-infraction avoidance. The diversity of boat responses reveals variance from the usual simplified assumption that all extractive boats respond similarly to MPA establishment. Our work is the first empirical study to analyze the response of both commercial and recreational boats to closure. Our results will inform MSP in better accounting for effort redistribution by ocean users in response to the implementation of MPAs and other closures. © 2016 by the Ecological Society of America.

Control of tick infestations and pathogen prevalence in cattle and sheep farms vaccinated with the recombinant Subolesin-Major Surface Protein 1a chimeric antigen

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Despite the use of chemical acaricides, tick infestations continue to affect animal health and production worldwide. Tick vaccines have been proposed as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative for tick control. Vaccination with the candidate tick protective antigen, Subolesin (SUB), has been shown experimentally to be effective in controlling vector infestations and pathogen infection. Furthermore, Escherichia coli membranes containing the chimeric antigen composed of SUB fused to Anaplasma marginale Major Surface Protein 1a (MSP1a) (SUB-MSP1a) were produced using a simple low-cost process and proved to be effective for the control of cattle tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus and R. annulatus infestations in pen trials. In this research, field trials were conducted to characterize the effect of vaccination with SUB-MSP1a on tick infestations and the prevalence of tick-borne pathogens in a randomized controlled prospective study. Methods Two cattle and two sheep farms with similar geographical locations and production characteristics were randomly assigned to control and vaccinated groups. Ticks were collected, counted, weighed and classified and the prevalence of tick-borne pathogens at the DNA and serological levels were followed for one year prior to and 9 months after vaccination. Results Both cattle and sheep developed antibodies against SUB in response to vaccination. The main effect of the vaccine in cattle was the 8-fold reduction in the percent of infested animals while vaccination in sheep reduced tick infestations by 63%. Female tick weight was 32-55% lower in ticks collected from both vaccinated cattle and sheep when compared to controls. The seroprevalence of Babesia bigemina was lower by 30% in vaccinated cattle, suggesting a possible role for the vaccine in decreasing the prevalence of this tick-borne pathogen. The effect of the vaccine in reducing the frequency of one A. marginale msp4 genotype probably reflected the reduction in the prevalence of a tick-transmitted strain as a result of the reduction in the percent of tick-infested cattle. Conclusions These data provide evidence of the dual effect of a SUB-based vaccine for controlling tick infestations and pathogen infection/transmission and provide additional support for the use of the SUB-MSP1a vaccine for tick control in cattle and sheep. PMID:24398155

Control of tick infestations and pathogen prevalence in cattle and sheep farms vaccinated with the recombinant Subolesin-Major Surface Protein 1a chimeric antigen.

PubMed

Torina, Alessandra; Moreno-Cid, Juan A; Blanda, Valeria; Fernández de Mera, Isabel G; de la Lastra, José M Pérez; Scimeca, Salvatore; Blanda, Marcellocalogero; Scariano, Maria Elena; Briganò, Salvatore; Disclafani, Rosaria; Piazza, Antonio; Vicente, Joaquín; Gortázar, Christian; Caracappa, Santo; Lelli, Rossella Colomba; de la Fuente, José

2014-01-08

Despite the use of chemical acaricides, tick infestations continue to affect animal health and production worldwide. Tick vaccines have been proposed as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative for tick control. Vaccination with the candidate tick protective antigen, Subolesin (SUB), has been shown experimentally to be effective in controlling vector infestations and pathogen infection. Furthermore, Escherichia coli membranes containing the chimeric antigen composed of SUB fused to Anaplasma marginale Major Surface Protein 1a (MSP1a) (SUB-MSP1a) were produced using a simple low-cost process and proved to be effective for the control of cattle tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus and R. annulatus infestations in pen trials. In this research, field trials were conducted to characterize the effect of vaccination with SUB-MSP1a on tick infestations and the prevalence of tick-borne pathogens in a randomized controlled prospective study. Two cattle and two sheep farms with similar geographical locations and production characteristics were randomly assigned to control and vaccinated groups. Ticks were collected, counted, weighed and classified and the prevalence of tick-borne pathogens at the DNA and serological levels were followed for one year prior to and 9 months after vaccination. Both cattle and sheep developed antibodies against SUB in response to vaccination. The main effect of the vaccine in cattle was the 8-fold reduction in the percent of infested animals while vaccination in sheep reduced tick infestations by 63%. Female tick weight was 32-55% lower in ticks collected from both vaccinated cattle and sheep when compared to controls. The seroprevalence of Babesia bigemina was lower by 30% in vaccinated cattle, suggesting a possible role for the vaccine in decreasing the prevalence of this tick-borne pathogen. The effect of the vaccine in reducing the frequency of one A. marginale msp4 genotype probably reflected the reduction in the prevalence of a tick-transmitted strain as a result of the reduction in the percent of tick-infested cattle. These data provide evidence of the dual effect of a SUB-based vaccine for controlling tick infestations and pathogen infection/transmission and provide additional support for the use of the SUB-MSP1a vaccine for tick control in cattle and sheep.

Geostatistical mapping of leakance in a regional aquitard, Oak Ridges Moraine area, Ontario, Canada

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Desbarats, A. J.; Hinton, M. J.; Logan, C. E.; Sharpe, D. R.

2001-01-01

The Newmarket Till forms a regionally extensive aquitard separating two major aquifer systems in the Greater Toronto area, Canada. The till is incised, and sometimes eroded entirely, by a network of sand- and gravel-filled channels forming productive aquifers and, locally, high-conductivity windows between aquifer systems. Leakage through the till may also be substantial in places. This study investigates the spatial variability of aquitard leakance in order to assess the relative importance of recharge processes to the lower aquifers. With a large database derived from water-well records and containing both hard and soft information, the Sequential Indicator Simulation method is used to generate maps of aquitard thickness and window probability. These can be used for targeting channel aquifers and for identifying potential areas of recharge to the lower aquifers. Conductivities are modeled from sparse data assuming that their correlation range is much smaller than the grid spacing. Block-scale leakances are obtained by upscaling nodal values based on simulated conductivity and thickness fields. Under the "aquifer-flow'' assumption, upscaling is performed by arithmetic spatial averaging. Histograms and maps of upscaled leakances show that heterogeneities associated with aquitard windows have the largest effect on regional groundwater flow patterns. Résumé. La moraine glaciaire de Newmarket constitue un imperméable d'extension régionale séparant deux systèmes aquifères dans la région du Grand Toronto (Canada). La moraine est entaillée, et parfois entièrement érodée, par un réseau de chenaux comblés de sables et de graviers formant des aquifères productifs et, localement, des «fenêtres», zones à forte conductivité hydraulique reliant les systèmes aquifères. Une drainance au travers de la moraine peut également être significative par endroits. Cette étude s'intéresse à la variabilité spatiale de la drainance au travers de l'imperméable, dans le but d'évaluer l'importance relative des processus d'alimentation des aquifères inférieurs. À partir d'une vaste base de données constituée par les mesures faites dans les puits et contenant des informations à la fois certaines et incertaines, la méthode de simulation par indicateur séquentiel est utilisée pour créer des cartes d'épaisseur de l'imperméable et de probabilité d'existence des fenêtres. Ces cartes peuvent être utilisées pour mettre en évidence les aquifères de chenaux et pour identifier les zones potentielles de recharge des aquifères inférieurs. Les conductivités hydrauliques sont modélisées à partir de données clairsemées en supposant que leur gamme de corrélation est beaucoup plus faible que le pas de la grille. La drainance à l'échelle des blocs est obtenue par accroissement du niveau d'échelle des valeurs nodales basé sur les champs de conductivité simulée et des épaisseurs. À partir de l'hypothèse d'écoulement dans l'aquifère, l'accroissement d'échelle est réalisé en faisant une moyenne arithmétique spatiale. Des histogrammes et des cartes de drainance avec accroissement d'échelle montrent que les hétérogénéités associées aux fenêtres dans l'imperméable constituent l'effet le plus important dans l'organisation des écoulements souterrains régionaux. Resumen. El Till de Newmarket forma un acuitardo de extensión regional que separa dos sistemas acuíferos principales en la zona de Greater Toronto (Canadá). El till está horadado, y a veces completamente erosionado, por una red de canales rellenos de arena y grava. Estos constituyen acuíferos productivos y, localmente, conexiones de alta permeabilidad entre sistemas acuíferos. El goteo a través del till puede ser fundamental en ciertos lugares. Este estudio investiga la variabilidad espacial del goteo desde el acuitardo con el fin de establecer la importancia relativa de los procesos de recarga hacia los acuíferos inferiores. Se ha utilizado el método de la Simulación Indicadora Secuencial, soportado por una gran base de datos que contiene registros de sondeos e incluye información blanda y dura, para generar mapas de espesor del acuitardo y mapas de probabilidad de discontinuidades laterales en el acuitardo. Estos resultados se pueden emplear para identificar canales y las zonas de recarga potencial a los acuíferos inferiores. Se han modelado las conductividades a partir de datos dispersos, suponiendo que la distancia de correlación es mucho menor que el espaciado de la malla. Se han calculado valores de goteo a escala de bloque por medio del escalado de los valores nodales, basándose en los campos simulados de conductividad y espesor. El escalado se calcula mediante un promedio aritmético espacial, bajo la hipótesis de "flujo en el acuífero". Los histogramas y mapas de goteos escalados muestran que las heterogeneidades asociadas a las discontinuidades en el acuitardo producen el efecto más notable en la distribución regional del flujo de aguas subterráneas.

Paragangliome malin orbitaire, à propos d’un cas

PubMed Central

Andaloussi, Idriss Benatiya; Maaroufi, Mustapha; Benzagmout, Mohammed; Harmouch, Taoufiq; Abdellaoui, Meryem; Bhallil, Salima; Tizniti, Siham; Elfaiz, Mohammed Chaoui; Amarti, Afaf; Tahri, Hicham

2012-01-01

Les paragangliomes sont des tumeurs neuroendocrines développées aux dépens du système nerveux parasympathique. Ils peuvent se localiser n’ importe où dans l’organisme depuis la tète et cou jusqu’au pelvis. La localisation orbitaire de cette tumeur est très rare. Nous présentons le cas d’un patient âgé de 37 ans qui présente depuis 4 mois une exophtalmie unilatérale droite, d’installation progressive, sans douleur ni baisse de l’acuité visuelle associés. L’examen général montre une tuméfaction sous le cuire chevelu, sans adénopathies locorégionales ni hépato ou splénomégalie. La tomodensitométrie retrouve un processus tumoral occupant le cadran supéro-externe de l’orbite droite, mesurant 38 mm de grand axe, envahissant la paroi supérieure et externe de l’orbite avec une importante ostéolyse. Un body scan révèle alors une métastase pulmonaire. L’examen histopathologique complétés par l’immunohistochimie, réalisé après biopsie, révèle un marquage cytoplasmique par l’anticorps anti-chromogranin, l’anticorps anti-synaptophysine et un marquage des vaisseaux par l’anticorps anti-CD31 soulignant l’architecture en zellbalen des nids tumoraux. Cet aspect est en faveur d’un paragangliome malin. Une exérèse chirurgicale incomplète suivie d’une radiothérapie adjuvante, sont alors réalisés. L’origine exacte de cette tumeur au sein de l’orbite reste très controversée. L’exophtalmie reste le principal signe révélateur. La tomodensitométrie, l’imagerie par résonnance magnétique et la scintigraphie au Metaiodobenzylguanidine radioinonisée à l’iode (MIBG-I131) permettent d’orienter le diagnostic et faire un bilan d’extension de la tumeur. Le diagnostic de certitude repose sur l’histopathologie et l’immunohistochimie. L’excision totale de la lésion est le traitement de choix pour les lésions bien délimitées. Dans les formes plus étendues le traitement repose sur l’excision incomplète associée à une radiothérapie adjuvante ou au MIBG I 131. La localisation orbitaire du paragangliome reste très rare. Son diagnostic est difficile et repose essentiellement sur l’immunohistochimie. Son pronostic dépend essentiellement de l’extension locale et de la présence de métastases à distance qui signe le caractère malin du paragangliome. PMID:22891095

Study of 0.9PMN 0.1PT Dielectric Behaviour in Relation to the Nanostructure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lattard, E.; Lejeune, M.; Imhoff, D.; Guinebretière, R.; Elissalde, C.; Abelard, P.

1997-06-01

(1 - x)PbMg{1/3}Nb{2/3}O{3-x}PbTiO3 ceramics with x = 0, 0.1 were prepared with a 12 mol% MgO excess to obtain dense and perovskite phase materials after sintering. The dielectric characterization has revealed that a local polarization appears at a T_d temperature largely above the temperature of the maximum of permittivity (T_m, respectively -13 ^{circ}C and +36 ^{circ}C for x = 0 and 0.1). This phenomena is consistent with the nucleation of polar clusters. Moreover, a dielectric relaxation is observed for 0.9PMN-0.1PT-0.12MgO, in a large frequency range (100 Hz 1 GHz), which corresponds to a multi-Debye process with broadening of the relaxation time distribution as the temperature decreases. This suggests a nucleation and growth mechanism of polar clusters with decreasing temperature, which can result from the successive transitions of different compositions. This hypothesis was confirmed by the identification of large chemical heterogeneities on a nanometric scale by TEM using two spectroscopy techniques (EDXS and EELS), because of the association of low and high atomic number elements in the materials, different types of equipment and also the simulation of the patterns with standards. In fact, these quantitative analyses have revealed large fluctuations of the local composition around the nominal one: lead and magnesium deficient areas enriched in niobium coexist with nanodomains largely enriched in lead and slightly in magnesium, which the size depends on the titanium content. The origin of these heterogeneities in correlation with the reactions sequences during calcination and sintering is discussed: in particular the addition of titanium contributes, by stabilizing the perovskite phase, to limit the diffusion of lead oxide, which consequently increases the homogeneity of the ceramics. Due to such heterogeneities, the material remains mainly paraelectric up to very low temperatures. This effect can be balanced by the application of a high electric field which induces the growth of the polar clusters by displacement of their interface with the paraelectric matrix and orientation of their polarization in the direction of the electric field which can lead to a macroscopic ferroelectric transition in specific conditions of temperature and electric field intensity. These different mechanisms relax in a frequency range which depends on the temperature and on the amplitude of the electric field. Des céramiques polycristallines du type (1 - x)PbMg{1/3}Nb{2/3}O{3-x}PbTiO3 avec x = 0 et 10 % molaires ont été élaborées avec un excès de MgO (12 % molaires) permettant d'obtenir des matériaux denses de structure pérovskite. Des mesures de permittivité diélectrique ont montré qu'une polarisation locale apparaît dans ces matériaux à des températures (T_d) largement supérieures à celles correspondant au maximum de permittivité (T_m respectivement égale à -13 ^{circ}C et +36 ^{circ}C pour x = 0 et 0,10). Ceci est cohérent avec la formation de nanodomaines polaires au sein du matériau. Par ailleurs, une étude des caractéristiques diélectriques sur une large gamme de fréquence (100 Hz 10^9 Hz) fait apparaître une relaxation de type multi-Debye, la distribution des temps de relaxation correspondants s'élargissant vers les basses fréquences lorsque la température diminue. Ce phénomène peut être relié à un processus de nucléation-croissance des clusters polaires sur une large gamme de température, résultant des fluctuations de composition chimique au sein du matériau identifiées à l'échelle nanométrique par deux techniques de spectroscopie (EDX et EELS) en microscopie électronique en transmission. En effet, ces analyses ont mis en évidence de larges fluctuations de composition autour de la composition nominale du matériau : des zones appauvries en plomb et en magnésium et enrichies en niobium coexistent avec des nanodomaines fortement enrichis en plomb et légérement en magnésium dont la taille varie avec la teneur en titane. Nous avons cherché à corréler ces hétérogénéités aux mécanismes réactionnels intervenant au cours des traitements thermiques nécessaires à l'élaboration de ces céramiques, en particulier, il apparaît que le titane en stabilisant la phase pérovskite contribue à limiter la diffusion de l'oxyde de plomb et à augmenter ainsi le degré d'homogénéité du matériau. Du fait de ces fortes hétérogénéités chimiques, le matériau reste globalement paraélectrique jusqu'à basse température mais le mécanisme de nucléation-croissance est accéléré par application d'un champ électrique de forte amplitude de telle sorte qu'en dessous d'une température T_t le matériau devient majoritairement ferroélectrique. Ces mécanismes correspondant à un déplacement de l'interface des domaines polaires avec la matrice paraélectrique et à une orientation des vecteurs polarisation dans la direction du champ électrique relaxent dans une gamme de fréquence fonction de la température et de l'amplitude du champ électrique.

A Rare Reason of Hyperinsulinism: Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy.

PubMed

Akın, Onur; Yeşilkaya, Ediz; Sari, Erkan; Akar, Çağdaş; Başbozkurt, Gökalp; Macit, Enis; Aydin, Ibrahim; Taşlipinar, Abdullah; Gül, Hüsamettin

2016-01-01

Hyperinsulinism, one of the most important causes of hypoglycaemia, can be congenital or acquired. Rarely, drug toxicity can be a reason for hyperinsulinism. In the context of Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSP), toxicity usually occurs in children due to drug administration by a parent or caregiver. A 7-year-old girl was referred to our department due to a hyperglycaemic period and hypoglycaemic episodes. On admission, gliclazide was initiated due to her hyperglycaemia, which we attributed to maturity onset diabetes of the young. However, during follow-up, hypoglycaemic levels were detected. Despite cessation of gliclazide, hypoglycaemic seizures occurred. Even with the medications administered, hypoglycaemia could not be prevented. During follow-up, the mother's affect, characterized by anxiety and interest in her daughter's medical care, appeared discordant with the situation. Due to our suspicion of MSP, we discovered toxic levels of gliclazide in the blood and urine samples which had been sent to the toxicology laboratory to search for hypoglycaemic agents. The patient was isolated, and all medications were stopped. After isolation, her hypoglycaemia disappeared, and she became hyperglycaemic (250 mg/dl). Physicians should consider the possibility of MSP in hyperinsulinaemic patients with discordant laboratory results and clinical symptoms, even if the child's parents display great concern. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy: two case reports and an update of the literature.

PubMed

Moldavsky, Maria; Stein, Daniel

2003-01-01

Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy (MSP) may significantly hamper the normal development of children. Our aim was to describe the first two Israeli children who fit this diagnosis. Case #1 was diagnosed at the age of seven months with failure to thrive, severe recurrent vomiting, and recurrent unexplained fever. Medical tests performed were normal. No improvement was noted following prolonged treatment, which included several surgical interventions. Case #2 was hospitalized at the age of four years because of recurrent convulsive episodes. Medical examinations performed were normal, and there was no improvement in the reported seizure disorder despite continuous treatment. In both cases, MSP was suspected because of a persistent illness that could not be explained by adequate medical basis, and because the symptoms and signs occurred only in the mother's presence. A confrontation was made, leading to rapid deterioration of the hitherto devoted relationship of the mother of case #1 with her child, and of the previous cooperative relationship of both mothers with the medical staff. Removal of both children from their families ensued, with considerable improvement within a brief period, which continued in a one- to two-year follow-up period. The study reviews the required diagnostic criteria for MSP and possible treatment options.

Antibodies to Plasmodium falciparum antigens predict a higher risk of malaria but protection from symptoms once parasitemic.

PubMed

Greenhouse, Bryan; Ho, Benjamin; Hubbard, Alan; Njama-Meya, Denise; Narum, David L; Lanar, David E; Dutta, Sheetij; Rosenthal, Philip J; Dorsey, Grant; John, Chandy C

2011-07-01

Associations between antibody responses to Plasmodium falciparum antigens and protection against symptomatic malaria have been difficult to ascertain, in part because antibodies are potential markers of both exposure to P. falciparum and protection against disease. We measured IgG responses to P. falciparum circumsporozoite protein, liver-stage antigen 1, apical-membrane antigen 1 (AMA-1), and merozoite surface proteins (MSP) 1 and 3, in children in Kampala, Uganda, and measured incidence of malaria before and after antibody measurement. Stronger responses to all 5 antigens were associated with an increased risk of clinical malaria (P < .01) because of confounding with prior exposure to P. falciparum. However, with use of another assessment, risk of clinical malaria once parasitemic, stronger responses to AMA-1, MSP-1, and MSP-3 were associated with protection (odds ratios, 0.34, 0.36, and 0.31, respectively, per 10-fold increase; P < .01). Analyses assessing antibodies in combination suggested that any protective effect of antibodies was overestimated by associations between individual responses and protection. Using the risk of symptomatic malaria once parasitemic as an outcome may improve detection of associations between immune responses and protection from disease. Immunoepidemiology studies designed to detect mechanisms of immune protection should integrate prior exposure into the analysis and evaluate multiple immune responses.

Frequent MGMT (06-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase) hypermethylation in long-term survivors of glioblastoma: a single institution experience

PubMed Central

Baur, Martina; Preusser, Matthias; Piribauer, Maria; Elandt, Katarzyna; Hassler, Marco; Hudec, Marcus; Dittrich, Christian; Marosi, Christine

2010-01-01

Background The aim of this retrospective study was to analyse the MGMT (06-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase) promoter methylation status in long-term surviving (≥ 3 years) patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Methods The methylation status of the MGMT promoter was determined by bisulfite modification of the DNA and subsequent methylation-specific polymerase-chain-reaction (MSP). DNA was extracted from routinely formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tumour tissue samples. Results MSP yielded interpretable results in only 14 of 33 (42%) long-term surviving patients with GBM. A methylated band was seen in 3 of 14, methylated as well as unmethylated bands in 8 of 14 and an only unmethylated band in 3 of 14 patients, thus, yielding MGMT promoter methylation in 11 of 14 patients. The two groups of patients with methylated and unmethylated MGMT promoter status were too small to draw any firm statistical conclusions. Conclusions Long-term surviving patients with GBM have very frequently intratumoural MGMT promoter methylation. This phenomenon discriminates long-term survivors from a non-selected group of patients with GBM. The standardization of the MSP for the determination of the MGMT promoter methylation status seems to be necessary in order to make this methodology a more reliable one. PMID:22933901

Genetic diversity of major surface protein 1a of Anaplasma marginale in beef cattle.

PubMed

Molad, T; Fleidrovich, L; Mazuz, M; Fish, L; Leibovitz, B; Krigel, Y; Shkap, V

2009-04-14

The present study was aimed to demonstrate genotypic diversity of Anaplama marginale in infected beef herds grazing within anaplasmosis endemic regions. The genotypic diversity was identified among different herds, within each herd, and also within single animals. The Israeli strains revealed unique characteristics of MSP1a repeats and, in addition to the published repeats, six new tandem repeats designated Is1-5, and Is9 were identified. The superinfections of individual Anaplama centrale vaccinated animals with two genotypically different A. marginale strains were detected. Six out of 43 vaccinated animals in the G herd were each infected with two A. marginale strains carrying two distinct genotypes; in this herd the follow-up during years 2003-2007 demonstrated that several animals carried different msp1a genotypes at different time points. Coinfection with two different genotypes of A. marginale in A. centrale vaccinated cattle was observed in another herd, as well. It appears that A. marginale is composed of a heterogeneous changing bacterial population that evolves in the host or, the genotypic diversity implies high transmission intensity by the vector, or both. Learning how this diversity is generated and identification of distinct A. marginale strains coupled with high sequence variation of MSP1a will aid in understanding Anaplasma transmission and disease development.

Utilization of unconventional lignocellulosic waste biomass for the biosorption of toxic triphenylmethane dye malachite green from aqueous solution.

PubMed

Selvasembian, Rangabhashiyam; P, Balasubramanian

2018-05-12

Biosorption potential of novel lignocellulosic biosorbents Musa sp. peel (MSP) and Aegle marmelos shell (AMS) was investigated for the removal of toxic triphenylmethane dye malachite green (MG), from aqueous solution. Batch experiments were performed to study the biosorption characteristics of malachite green onto lignocellulosic biosorbents as a function of initial solution pH, initial malachite green concentration, biosorbents dosage, and temperature. Biosorption equilibrium data were fitted to two and three parameters isotherm models. Three-parameter isotherm models better described the equilibrium data. The maximum monolayer biosorption capacities obtained using the Langmuir model for MG removal using MSP and AMS was 47.61 and 18.86 mg/g, respectively. The biosorption kinetic data were analyzed using pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, Elovich and intraparticle diffusion models. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model best fitted the experimental data, indicated the MG biosorption using MSP and AMS as chemisorption process. The removal of MG using AMS was found as highly dependent on the process temperature. The removal efficiency of MG showed declined effect at the higher concentrations of NaCl and CaCl 2 . The regeneration test of the biosorbents toward MG removal was successful up to three cycles.

Comparison of saddle, lumbar epidural and caudal blocks on anal sphincter tone: A prospective, randomized study.

PubMed

Shon, Yoon-Jung; Huh, Jin; Kang, Sung-Sik; Bae, Seung-Kil; Kang, Ryeong-Ah; Kim, Duk-Kyung

2016-10-01

Objective To compare the effects of saddle, lumbar epidural and caudal blocks on anal sphincter tone using anorectal manometry. Methods Patients undergoing elective anorectal surgery with regional anaesthesia were divided randomly into three groups and received a saddle (SD), lumbar epidural (LE), or caudal (CD) block. Anorectal manometry was performed before and 30 min after each regional block. The degree of motor blockade of the anal sphincter was compared using the maximal resting pressure (MRP) and the maximal squeezing pressure (MSP). Results The study analysis population consisted of 49 patients (SD group, n = 18; LE group, n = 16; CD group, n = 15). No significant differences were observed in the percentage inhibition of the MRP among the three regional anaesthetic groups. However, percentage inhibition of the MSP was significantly greater in the SD group (83.6 ± 13.7%) compared with the LE group (58.4 ± 19.8%) and the CD group (47.8 ± 16.9%). In all groups, MSP was reduced significantly more than MRP after each regional block. Conclusions Saddle block was more effective than lumbar epidural or caudal block for depressing anal sphincter tone. No differences were detected between lumbar epidural and caudal blocks.

The Tubular Sheaths Encasing Methanosaeta thermophila Filaments Are Functional Amyloids.

PubMed

Dueholm, Morten S; Larsen, Poul; Finster, Kai; Stenvang, Marcel R; Christiansen, Gunna; Vad, Brian S; Bøggild, Andreas; Otzen, Daniel E; Nielsen, Per Halkjær

2015-08-14

Archaea are renowned for their ability to thrive in extreme environments, although they can be found in virtually all habitats. Their adaptive success is linked to their unique cell envelopes that are extremely resistant to chemical and thermal denaturation and that resist proteolysis by common proteases. Here we employ amyloid-specific conformation antibodies and biophysical techniques to show that the extracellular cell wall sheaths encasing the methanogenic archaea Methanosaeta thermophila PT are functional amyloids. Depolymerization of sheaths and subsequent MS/MS analyses revealed that the sheaths are composed of a single major sheath protein (MspA). The amyloidogenic nature of MspA was confirmed by in vitro amyloid formation of recombinant MspA under a wide range of environmental conditions. This is the first report of a functional amyloid from the archaeal domain of life. The amyloid nature explains the extreme resistance of the sheath, the elastic properties that allow diffusible substrates to penetrate through expandable hoop boundaries, and how the sheaths are able to split and elongate outside the cell. The archaeal sheath amyloids do not share homology with any of the currently known functional amyloids and clearly represent a new function of the amyloid protein fold. © 2015 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Isolation and Characterization of Vaccine Candidate Genes Including CSP and MSP1 in Plasmodium yoelii.

PubMed

Kim, Seon-Hee; Bae, Young-An; Seoh, Ju-Young; Yang, Hyun-Jong

2017-06-01

Malaria is an infectious disease affecting humans, which is transmitted by the bite of Anopheles mosquitoes harboring sporozoites of parasitic protozoans belonging to the genus Plasmodium . Despite past achievements to control the protozoan disease, malaria still remains a significant health threat up to now. In this study, we cloned and characterized the full-unit Plasmodium yoelii genes encoding merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1), circumsporozoite protein (CSP), and Duffy-binding protein (DBP), each of which can be applied for investigations to obtain potent protective vaccines in the rodent malaria model, due to their specific expression patterns during the parasite life cycle. Recombinant fragments corresponding to the middle and C-terminal regions of PyMSP1 and PyCSP, respectively, displayed strong reactivity against P. yoelii -infected mice sera. Specific native antigens invoking strong humoral immune response during the primary and secondary infections of P. yoelii were also abundantly detected in experimental ICR mice. The low or negligible parasitemia observed in the secondary infected mice was likely to result from the neutralizing action of the protective antibodies. Identification of these antigenic proteins might provide the necessary information and means to characterize additional vaccine candidate antigens, selected solely on their ability to produce the protective antibodies.

Identification d’une Classe de Processus de Poisson Filtres (Identification of a Class of Filtered Poisson Processes).

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-05-20

Poisson processes is introduced: the amplitude has a law which is spherically invariant and the filter is real, linear and causal. It is shown how such a model can be identified from experimental data. (Author)

Effects of seasonal change and parity on raw milk composition and related indices in Chinese Holstein cows in northern China.

PubMed

Yang, L; Yang, Q; Yi, M; Pang, Z H; Xiong, B H

2013-01-01

This study was to investigate the effects of seasonal change and parity on milk composition and related indices, and to analyze the relationships among milk indices in Chinese Holstein cows from an intensive dairy farm in northern China. The 6,520 sets of complete Dairy Herd Improvement data were obtained and grouped by natural month and parity. The data included daily milk yield (DMY), milk solids percentage (MSP), milk fat percentage (MFP), milk protein percentage (MPP), milk lactose percentage (MLP), somatic cell count (SCC), somatic cell score (SCS), milk production loss (MPL), and fat-to-protein ratio (FPR). Data analysis showed that the above 9 indices were affected by both seasonal change and parity. However, the interaction between parity and seasonal change showed effects on MLP, SCS, MPL, and DMY, but no effects on MFP, MPP, MSP, and FPR. Duncan's multiple comparison on seasonal change showed that DMY (23.58 kg/d), MSP (12.35%), MPP (3.02%), and MFP (3.81%) were the lowest in June, but SCC (288.7 × 10(3)/mL) and MPL (0.69 kg/d) were the lowest in January; FPR (1.32) was the highest in February. Meanwhile, Duncan's multiple comparison on parities showed that MSP, MPP, and MLP were reduced rapidly in the fourth lactation, but SCC and MPL increased with increasing parities. The canonical correlation analysis for indices showed that SCS had high positive correlation with MPL (0.8360). Therefore, a few models were developed to quantify the effects of seasonal change and parity on raw milk composition using the Wood model. The changing patterns of milk composition and related indices in different months and parities could provide scientific evidence for improving feeding management and nutritional supplementation of Chinese Holstein cows. Copyright © 2013 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Anna Hamilton (1864-1935), the excellence of nursing.

PubMed

Diebolt, Évelyne

2017-12-01

A Frenchwoman, Anna Hamilton (1864-1935), daughter of a Franco-English couple, reads with passion the works of Florence Nightingale and takes an interest in nursing. In order to practice it, she first passes the equivalent of a bachelor’s degree in self-education and registers at the Marseille medical school. She wants to prepare a medical thesis on the nursing staff in the hospitals in Europe and is conducting an investigation throughout Europe. She passed her thesis on June 15, 1900 entitled “Considerations on hospital nurses”. This work is immediately published. That same year, she took up a post at the “Maison de santé protestante” in Bordeaux (MSP), founded in 1863. Without managerial staff, she is forced to recruit them abroad. She publishes a professional journal : “La Garde-Malade hospitalière” (1906-1914). Then the war turned the MSP into a military hospital, but the institution continued to receive local paying patients. She was given permission to call the school of nurses : Florence Nightingale School. Anna Hamilton is working with American women to create a medical and social service in Aisne. A graduate, Antoinette Hervey, then opened a medical-social service in Rouen, which would employ up to 30 visiting nurses. In 1916, the MSP received a donation from the domain of Bagatelle. The board of directors wants to sell it, but Anna Hamilton manages to finance a hospital-school thanks to families bereaved by the war and a subscription announced in the “Journal of Nursing”. Other establishments created by former students of the MSP opened : the School-hospital Ambroise Paré in Lille, a nursing home for nurses in Chambon-sur-Lignon in 1927 (the Edith-Seltzer foundation) and a sanatorium in Briançon. After a busy life, Anna Hamilton died of cancer in 1935 and is buried in Bordeaux.

A Plasmodium vivax Plasmid DNA- and Adenovirus-Vectored Malaria Vaccine Encoding Blood-Stage Antigens AMA1 and MSP142 in a Prime/Boost Heterologous Immunization Regimen Partially Protects Aotus Monkeys against Blood-Stage Challenge.

PubMed

Obaldia, Nicanor; Stockelman, Michael G; Otero, William; Cockrill, Jennifer A; Ganeshan, Harini; Abot, Esteban N; Zhang, Jianfeng; Limbach, Keith; Charoenvit, Yupin; Doolan, Denise L; Tang, De-Chu C; Richie, Thomas L

2017-04-01

Malaria is caused by parasites of the genus Plasmodium , which are transmitted to humans by the bites of Anopheles mosquitoes. After the elimination of Plasmodium falciparum , it is predicted that Plasmodium vivax will remain an important cause of morbidity and mortality outside Africa, stressing the importance of developing a vaccine against P. vivax malaria. In this study, we assessed the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of two P. vivax antigens, apical membrane antigen 1 (AMA1) and the 42-kDa C-terminal fragment of merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1 42 ) in a plasmid recombinant DNA prime/adenoviral (Ad) vector boost regimen in Aotus monkeys. Groups of 4 to 5 monkeys were immunized with plasmid DNA alone, Ad alone, prime/boost regimens with each antigen, prime/boost regimens with both antigens, and empty vector controls and then subjected to blood-stage challenge. The heterologous immunization regimen with the antigen pair was more protective than either antigen alone or both antigens delivered with a single vaccine platform, on the basis of their ability to induce the longest prepatent period and the longest time to the peak level of parasitemia, the lowest peak and mean levels of parasitemia, the smallest area under the parasitemia curve, and the highest self-cure rate. Overall, prechallenge MSP1 42 antibody titers strongly correlated with a decreased parasite burden. Nevertheless, a significant proportion of immunized animals developed anemia. In conclusion, the P. vivax plasmid DNA/Ad serotype 5 vaccine encoding blood-stage parasite antigens AMA1 and MSP1 42 in a heterologous prime/boost immunization regimen provided significant protection against blood-stage challenge in Aotus monkeys, indicating the suitability of these antigens and this regimen for further development. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Microbiology.

PCDD/F adsorption and destruction in the flue gas streams of MWI and MSP via Cu and Fe catalysts supported on carbon.

PubMed

Chang, Shu Hao; Yeh, Jhy Wei; Chein, Hung Min; Hsu, Li Yeh; Chi, Kai Hsien; Chang, Moo Been

2008-08-01

Catalytic destruction has been applied to control polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin and dibenzofuran (PCDD/Fs) emissions from different facilities. The cost of carbon-based catalysts is considerably lower than that of the metal oxide or zeolite-based catalysts used in the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system. In this study, destruction and adsorption efficiencies of PCDD/Fs achieved with Cu/C and Fe/C catalysts from flue gas streams of a metal smelting plant (MSP) and a large-scale municipal waste incinerator (MWI), respectively, are evaluated via the pilot-scale catalytic reactor system (PCRS). The results indicate that Cu and Fe catalysts supported on carbon surface are capable of decomposing and adsorbing PCDD/ Fs from gas streams. In the testing sources of MSP and MWI, the PCDD/F removal efficiencies achieved with Cu/C catalyst at 250 degrees C reach 96%, however, the destruction efficiencies are negative (-1,390% and -112%, respectively) due to significant PCDD/F formation on catalyst promoted by copper. In addition, Fe/C catalyst is of higher removal and destruction efficiencies compared with Cu/C catalyst in both testing sources. The removal efficiencies of PCDD/Fs achieved with Fe/C catalyst are 97 and 94% for MSP and MWI, respectively, whereas the destruction efficiencies are both higher than 70%. Decrease of PCDD/F destruction efficiency and increase of adsorption efficiency with increasing chlorination of dioxin congeners is also observed in the test via three-layer Fe/C catalyst. Furthermore, the mass of 2,3,7,8-PCDD/Fs retained on catalyst decreases on the order of first to third layer of catalyst. Each gram Fe/C catalyst in first layer adsorbs 10.9, 6.91, and 3.04 ng 2,3,7,8-PCDD/Fs in 100 min testing duration as the operating temperature is controlled at 150, 200, and 250 degrees C, respectively.

Microbial communities in the deep subsurface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krumholz, Lee R.

The diversity of microbial populations and microbial communities within the earth's subsurface is summarized in this review. Scientists are currently exploring the subsurface and addressing questions of microbial diversity, the interactions among microorganisms, and mechanisms for maintenance of subsurface microbial communities. Heterotrophic anaerobic microbial communities exist in relatively permeable sandstone or sandy sediments, located adjacent to organic-rich deposits. These microorganisms appear to be maintained by the consumption of organic compounds derived from adjacent deposits. Sources of organic material serving as electron donors include lignite-rich Eocene sediments beneath the Texas coastal plain, organic-rich Cretaceous shales from the southwestern US, as well as Cretaceous clays containing organic materials and fermentative bacteria from the Atlantic Coastal Plain. Additionally, highly diverse microbial communities occur in regions where a source of organic matter is not apparent but where igneous rock is present. Examples include the basalt-rich subsurface of the Columbia River valley and the granitic subsurface regions of Sweden and Canada. These subsurface microbial communities appear to be maintained by the action of lithotrophic bacteria growing on H2 that is chemically generated within the subsurface. Other deep-dwelling microbial communities exist within the deep sediments of oceans. These systems often rely on anaerobic metabolism and sulfate reduction. Microbial colonization extends to the depths below which high temperatures limit the ability of microbes to survive. Energy sources for the organisms living in the oceanic subsurface may originate as oceanic sedimentary deposits. In this review, each of these microbial communities is discussed in detail with specific reference to their energy sources, their observed growth patterns, and their diverse composition. This information is critical to develop further understanding of subsurface geochemical processes and to develop new approaches to subsurface remediation. Résumé La diversité des populations et des communautés microbiennes dans le sol et le sous-sol est présentée dans cet article. Les chercheurs s'interrogent fréquemment sur la diversité microbienne du sous-sol, sur les interactions entre organismes et sur les mécanismes qui permettent le maintien des communautés microbiennes souterraines. Il existe des communautés microbiennes anérobies hétérotrophes dans des grès ou dans des sédiments sableux relativement perméables, à proximité de dépôts riches en matières organiques. Ces micro-organismes semblent se maintenir grâce à la consommation de composés organiques provenant des dépôts organiques voisins. Les sources de matériel organique jouant le rôle de donneur d'électrons sont constituées par des sédiments éocènes riches en lignite situés sous la plaine littorale du Texas, les schistes riches en matières organiques du Crétacé du sud-ouest des États-Unis, ainsi que les argiles contenant des matériaux organiques et des bactéries de fermentation de la plaine littorale atlantique. En outre, il existe des communautés fortement diversifiées dans des régions où aucune source de matière organique n'existe, mais où sont présentes des roches ignées. Le sous-sol riche en basalte de la vallée de la Columbia au Canada et les régions granitiques de Suède en sont des exemples. Ces communautés microbiennes souterraines semblent se maintenir par l'action de bactéries lithotrophes se développant grâce à l'hydrogène qui est produit par réactions chimiques dans le sous-sol. Il existe d'autres communautés microbiennes de profondeur dans les sédiments profonds des océans. Ces systèmes sont souvent associés à un métabolisme anérobie et à une réduction des sulfates. La colonisation microbienne s'étend jusqu'à des profondeurs où les températures élevées limitent leur capacité de survie. Les sources d'énergie pour ces organismes vivant dans les fonds des océans peuvent être les dépôts sédimentaires océaniques. Dans cette revue, chacune des communautés microbiennes est discutée en détail en se référant spécifiquement à leurs sources d'énergie, au schéma observé de leur développement et à leur composition diversifiée. Cette information est donnée de façon critique dans le but d'améliorer la compréhension des processus géochimiques intervenant dans le sous-sol et de développer de nouvelles approches pour la dépollution souterraine. Resumen En este artículo se resume la diversidad de las poblaciones y comunidades microbianas en el subsuelo. A partir de exploraciones realizadas en el subsuelo, los científicos se están cuestionando en la actualidad aspectos relativos a la diversidad microbiana, las interacciones entre los distintos microorganismos y los mecanismos para el mantenimiento de las comunidades de microbios. Se ha comprobado la presencia de comunidades microbianas anaerobias y heterótrofas en areniscas relativamente permeables y en sedimentos arenosos ubicados cerca de depósitos ricos en materia orgánica, de la cual se alimentan. Algunas fuentes de material orgánico, que actúan como donantes de electrones, son: sedimentos del Eoceno ricos en lignito, bajo la planicie costera de Texas; pizarras del Cretácico ricas en materia orgánica, al sudoeste del país y arcillas cretácicas con materia orgánica y bacterias fermentativas, en la llanura Atlántica. También existen comunidades microbianas de gran diversidad en rocas ígneas, aunque la fuente de materia orgánica no es tan evidente. Algunos ejemplos son la subsuperficie del valle del Río Columbia, rico en basaltos, y las regiones graníticas de Suecia y Canadá. Estas comunidades microbianas subsuperficiales se mantienen por la acción de bacterias litotrópicas, que crecen en ambiente de H2, generado en la subsuperficie. También existen comunidades microbianas a gran profundidad, como por ejemplo en los sedimentos oceánicos. Estos sistemas subsisten con un metabolismo anaerobio en un ambiente sulfato-reductor. La colonización microbiana se extiende hasta profundidades tales que las altas temperaturas limitan su supervivencia. Las fuentes de energía para estos organismos pueden ser los depósitos sedimentarios oceánicos. En este artículo se discute cada una de estas comunidades en detalle, en particular sus fuentes de energía, su esquema de crecimiento y la diversidad de su composición. Esta información es de gran interés para permitir un mayor entendimiento de los procesos geoquímicos en profundidad y para desarrollar nuevos métodos de rehabilitación.

Biotransformation of pesticides in saturated-zone materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoyle, Blythe L.; Arthur, Ellen L.

Many studies have been conducted to evaluate pesticide contamination of groundwater in the United States, but investigations of pesticide biotransformation in saturated zones are much less numerous than in surface soils. Because results of studies using soils are not directly applicable to the subsurface, the purpose of this paper is to illustrate examples of pesticide biotransformation in saturated-zone materials. Although it must be considered with caution, the US Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) "Pesticides in Ground Water Database" was used to focus the discussion on the biotransformation potential of dibromoethane (EDB), atrazine, acetanilide herbicides, and aldicarb, all of which have been detected in groundwater in the United States. Results of more than two dozen studies indicate that a biotransformation potential for these pesticides exists in saturated-zone materials, although for any given pesticide substantial differences in biotransformation occurred. These variations were due both to differences in experimental methods and to heterogeneities in the subsurface materials under investigation. However, because biotransformation mechanisms were not well investigated, it is generally not possible to extrapolate predictions of biotransformation potential beyond the specific sites investigated. These results highlight the need to better understand microbial genetic regulation of biotransformation processes so that genetic information may be effectively incorporated into future investigations of biotransformation potential in the subsurface. Résumé De nombreuses études ont été réalisées pour évaluer le degré de pollution des aquifères par les pesticides aux États-Unis, mais les recherches concernant la biotransformation des pesticides dans les eaux souterraines sont beaucoup moins nombreuses que dans les sols. Du fait que les résultats des études concernant les sols ne sont pas directement applicables au milieu souterrain, le propos de cet article est d'illustrer par des exemples la biotransformation des pesticides dans les nappes. Bien qu'il faille la considérer avec précaution, la base de données sur les pesticides dans les eaux souterraines de l'Agence américaine pour la protection de l'environnement a été utilisée pour centrer la discussion sur le potentiel de biotransformation du dibromoéthane (EDB), de l'atrazine, des désherbants acétanildés et de l'aldicarb, qui tous ont été détectés dans les nappes des États-Unis. Les résultats de plus de deux douzaines d'études indiquent qu'il existe un potentiel de biotransformation de ces pesticides dans les nappes, bien qu'entre chacun de ces pesticides il existe des différences très nettes dans la biotransformation. Ces variations sont en fait dues à la fois à des différences dans les méthodes expérimentales et dans les hétérogénéités dans les matériaux étudiés. Cependant, parce que les mécanismes de la biotransformation ne sont pas bien étudiés, il est en général impossible d'extrapoler les prédictions du potentiel de biotransformation à des sites d'étude spécifiques. Ces résultats soulignent la nécessité de mieux comprendre la régulation génétique microbienne des processus de biotransformation, pour que l'information génétique puisse être efficacement prise en compte dans les futures recherches sur le potentiel de biotransformation dans le sous-sol. Resumen Se han llevado a cabo un gran número de estudios para evaluar la contaminación por pesticidas en los acuíferos de los Estados Unidos de América. Sin embargo, las investigaciones sobre biotransformación de pesticidas en la zona saturada son mucho menos numerosas que en suelos. Como los resultados obtenidos en suelos no son directamente transladables a la zona saturada, el objetivo de este artículo es mostrar ejemplos de biotransformación de pesticidas en la zona saturada. Aunque debe tomarse con cautela, la base de datos "Pesticides in Ground Water Database (Base de Datos de Pesticidas en Aguas Subterráneas)" perteneciente a la US EPA (Agencia de Protección Ambiental de los EEUU) se usó para centrar la discusión en la biotransformación potencial de diversos compuestos orgánicos detectados en diversos acuíferos de los EEUU. Los resultados de más de dos docenas de estudios indican que la biotransformación potencial de estos pesticidas en la zona saturada es posible, aunque para un pesticida dado pueden presentarse grandes diferencias, debidas tanto a diferencias en los métodos experimentales como a la heterogeneidad de los materiales. Sin embargo, no es posible en general extrapolar las predicciones de biotransformación potencial más allá de las zonas específicas estudiadas, al no haberse investigado en detalle sus mecanismos. Los resultados del estudio indican la necesidad de entender mejor la regulación genética de los procesos de biotransformación, para que la información genética pueda incorporarse de manera efectiva en las investigaciones futuras de biotransformación potencial en acuíferos.

Growth performance of calves fed microbially enhanced soy protein in pelleted starters.

PubMed

Senevirathne, N D; Anderson, J L; Gibbons, W R; Clapper, J A

2017-01-01

Our objective was to determine effects of feeding calves pelleted starters with microbially enhanced (fungi-treated) soy protein (MSP) in replacement of soybean meal (SBM) with different milk replacers (MR). Thirty-six Holstein calves (2 d old; 24 females, 12 males) in individual hutches were used in a 12-wk randomized complete block design study. Treatments were (1) MSP pellets with MR formulated for accelerated growth (28% crude protein, 18% fat; MSPA), (2) SBM pellets with MR formulated for accelerated growth (SBMA), and (3) MSP pellets with conventional MR (20% crude protein, 20% fat; MSPC). Pellets were similar except for 23% MSP or 23% SBM (dry matter basis). Pellets and water were fed ad libitum throughout the study. Feeding rates of MR on a dry matter basis were 0.37kg twice daily during wk 1, 0.45kg twice daily during wk 2 to 5, and 0.45kg once daily during wk 6. Intakes were recorded daily. Body weights, frame size measurements, and jugular blood samples were collected 2 d every 2 wk at 3 h after the morning feeding. Fecal grab samples were collected 5 times per d for 3 d during wk 12 and then composited by calf for analysis of apparent total-tract digestibility of nutrients using acid detergent insoluble ash as an internal marker. Total and starter pellet dry matter intake were greatest for calves fed SBMA and least for MSPC. Calves had similar average daily gain among treatments, but there was a treatment by week interaction and during the last few weeks of the study calves on MSPC had less body weight compared with MSPA or SBMA. Gain-to-feed ratio was similar among treatments; however, there was a treatment by week interaction. Serum glucose was similar among treatments. Plasma urea nitrogen was greatest for calves fed MSPA and least for MSPC. Plasma concentrations of IGF-1 were greatest for calves fed SBMA. Plasma concentrations of triglycerides were greatest for calves fed MSPC. Plasma concentrations of β-hydroxybutyrate had a treatment by time interaction. Treatments had similar total-tract dry matter digestibility, but calves fed MSPC had greater crude protein digestibility than SBMA, with MSPA similar to both. Results demonstrated calves fed pelleted starters with MSP had maintained growth performance with less starter intake compared with SBM. Copyright © 2017 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Philippogalla, a new genus for Philipposcopus modestus (Baker) from Philippines, and a new species of Philiposcopus (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Idiocerinae) from China

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A new genus of Idiocerinae, Philippogalla gen. nov., is described and illustrated based on Philipposcopus modestus from Philippines. In addition, a new species Philipposcopus processus sp. nov. is described and illustrated from China....

Maritime transport in the Gulf of Bothnia 2030.

PubMed

Pekkarinen, Annukka; Repka, Sari

2014-10-01

Scenarios for shipping traffic in the Gulf of Bothnia (GoB) by 2030 are described in order to identify the main factors that should be taken into account when preparing a Maritime Spatial Plan (MSP) for the area. The application of future research methodology to planning of marine areas was also assessed. The methods include applying existing large scale quantitative scenarios for maritime traffic in the GoB and using real-time Delphi in which an expert group discussed different factors contributing to future maritime traffic in the GoB to find out the probability and significance of the factors having an impact on maritime traffic. MSP was tested on transnational scale in the Bothnian sea area as a pilot project.

Genetic characterization of an epidemic of Plasmodium falciparum malaria among Yanomami Amerindians.

PubMed

Laserson, K F; Petralanda, I; Almera, R; Barker, R H; Spielman, A; Maguire, J H; Wirth, D F

1999-12-01

Malaria parasites are genetically diverse at all levels of endemicity. In contrast, the merozoite surface protein (MSP) alleles in samples from 2 isolated populations of Yanomami Amerindians during an epidemic of Plasmodium falciparum were identical. The nonvariable restriction fragment length polymorphism patterns further suggested that the sequential outbreak comprised only a single P. falciparum genotype. By examination of serial samples from single human infections, the MSP characteristics were found to remain constant throughout the course of infection. An apparent clonal population structure of parasites seemed to cause outbreaks in small isolated villages. The use of standard molecular epidemiologic methods to measure genetic diversity in malaria revealed the occurrence of a genetically monomorphic population of P. falciparum within a human community.

New Neighbours: Modelling the Growing Population of gamma-ray Millisecond Pulsars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Venter, C.; Harding, A. K.; Johnson, T. J.

2010-01-01

The Fermi Large Area Telescope, in collaboration with several groups from the radio community. have had marvelous success at uncovering new gamma-ray millisecond pulsars (MSPs). In fact, MSPs now make up a sizable fraction of the total number of known gamma-ray pulsars. The MSP population is characterized by a variety of pulse profile shapes, peak separations, and radio-to-gamma phase lags, with some members exhibiting nearly phase-aligned radio and gamma-ray light curves (LCs). The MSPs' short spin periods underline the importance of including special relativistic effects in LC calculations, even for emission originating from near the stellar surface. We present results on modelling and classification of MSP LCs using standard pulsar model geometries.