Sustainable Development under Population Pressure: Lessons from Developed Land Consumption in the Conterminous U.S.

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

Population growth will result in a significant anthropogenic environmental change worldwide through increases in developed land (DL) consumption. DL consumption is an important environmental and socioeconomic process affecting humans and ecosystems. Attention has been given to DL modeling inside highly populated cities. However, modeling DL consumption should expand to non-metropolitan areas where arguably the environmental consequences are more significant. Here, we study all counties within the conterminous U.S. and based on satellite-derived product (National Land Cover Dataset 2001) we calculate the associated DL for each county. By using county population data from the 2000 census we present a comparative study on DL consumption and we propose a model linking population with expected DL consumption. Results indicate distinct geographic patterns of comparatively low and high consuming counties moving from east to west. We also demonstrate that the relationship of DL consumption with population is mostly linear, altering the notion that expected population growth will have lower DL consumption if added in counties with larger population. Added DL consumption is independent of a county’s starting population and only dependent on whether the county belongs to a Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). In the overlapping MSA and non-MSA population range there is also a constant DL efficiency gain of approximately 20km2 for a given population for MSA counties which suggests that transitioning from rural to urban counties has significantly higher benefits in lower populations. In addition, we analyze the socioeconomic composition of counties with extremely high or low DL consumption. High DL consumption counties have statistically lower Black/African American population, higher poverty rate and lower income per capita than average in both NMSA and MSA counties. Our analysis offers a baseline to investigate further land consumption strategies in anticipation of growing population pressures. PMID:25806525

Validated chiral high performance liquid chromatography separation method and simulation studies of dipeptides on amylose chiral column.

PubMed

Ali, Imran; Sahoo, Dibya Ranjan; ALOthman, Zeid A; Alwarthan, Abdulrahman A; Asnin, Leonid; Larsson, Bernt

2015-08-07

Chiral resolution of dl-alanine-dl-tyrosine and dl-leucine-dl-phenylalanine dipeptides was achieved on AmyCoat-RP column. The mobile phase used for dl-alanine-dl-tyrosine was acetonitrile-ammonium acetate (10mM, pH 6.0) [50:50, v/v]. It was acetonitrile-methanol-ammonium acetate (10mM; pH adjusted to 4.5 with glacial acetic acid) [50:20:30, v/v] for dl-leucine-dl-phenylalanine. The flow rate of the mobile phases was 0.8mL/min with UV detection at 275nm. The values of retention factors for ll-, dd-, dl- and ld-stereomers of dl-alanine-dl-tyrosine were 1.71, 2.86, 5.43 and 9.42, respectively. The values of separation and resolution factors were 1.67, 1.90 and 1.73 and 2.88, 6.43 and 7.90, respectively. Similarly, these values for dl-leucine-dl-phenylalanine stereomers were 1.50, 2.88, 3.50 and 4.07 (retention factors), 1.92, 1.22 and 1.62 (separation factors) and 2.67, 1.55 and 2.30 (resolution factors). The limits of detections and quantitation were ranged from 2.03 to 6.40 and 6.79 to 21.30μg/mL, respectively. The modeling studies were in agreement with the elution orders. The mechanism of chiral recognition was established by modeling and chromatographic studies. It was observed that hydrogen bondings and π-π interactions are the major forces for chiral separation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Descriptions and Implementations of DL_F Notation: A Natural Chemical Expression System of Atom Types for Molecular Simulations.

PubMed

Yong, Chin W

2016-08-22

DL_F Notation is an easy-to-understand, standardized atom typesetting expression for molecular simulations for a range of organic force field (FF) schemes such as OPLSAA, PCFF, and CVFF. It is implemented within DL_FIELD, a software program that facilitates the setting up of molecular FF models for DL_POLY molecular dynamics simulation software. By making use of the Notation, a single core conversion module (the DL_F conversion Engine) implemented within DL_FIELD can be used to analyze a molecular structure and determine the types of atoms for a given FF scheme. Users only need to provide the molecular input structure in a simple xyz format and DL_FIELD can produce the necessary force field file for DL_POLY automatically. In commensurate with the development concept of DL_FIELD, which placed emphasis on robustness and user friendliness, the Engine provides a single-step solution to setup complex FF models. This allows users to switch from one of the above-mentioned FF seamlessly to another while at the same time provides a consistent atom typing that is expressed in a natural chemical sense.

Model-Based Closed-Loop Glucose Control in Type 1 Diabetes: The DiaCon Experience

PubMed Central

Schmidt, Signe; Boiroux, Dimitri; Duun-Henriksen, Anne Katrine; Frøssing, Laurits; Skyggebjerg, Ole; Jørgensen, John Bagterp; Poulsen, Niels Kjølstad; Madsen, Henrik; Madsbad, Sten; Nørgaard, Kirsten

2013-01-01

Background To improve type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) management, we developed a model predictive control (MPC) algorithm for closed-loop (CL) glucose control based on a linear second-order deterministic-stochastic model. The deterministic part of the model is specified by three patient-specific parameters: insulin sensitivity factor, insulin action time, and basal insulin infusion rate. The stochastic part is identical for all patients but identified from data from a single patient. Results of the first clinical feasibility test of the algorithm are presented. Methods We conducted two randomized crossover studies. Study 1 compared CL with open-loop (OL) control. Study 2 compared glucose control after CL initiation in the euglycemic (CL-Eu) and hyperglycemic (CL-Hyper) ranges, respectively. Patients were studied from 22:00–07:00 on two separate nights. Results Each study included six T1DM patients (hemoglobin A1c 7.2% ± 0.4%). In study 1, hypoglycemic events (plasma glucose < 54 mg/dl) occurred on two OL and one CL nights. Average glucose from 22:00–07:00 was 90 mg/dl [74–146 mg/dl; median (interquartile range)] during OL and 108 mg/dl (101–128 mg/dl) during CL (determined by continuous glucose monitoring). However, median time spent in the range 70–144 mg/dl was 67.9% (3.0–73.3%) during OL and 80.8% (70.5–89.7%) during CL. In study 2, there was one episode of hypoglycemia with plasma glucose <54 mg/dl in a CL-Eu night. Mean glucose from 22:00–07:00 and time spent in the range 70–144 mg/dl were 121 mg/dl (117–133 mg/dl) and 69.0% (30.7–77.9%) in CL-Eu and 149 mg/dl (140–193 mg/dl) and 48.2% (34.9–72.5%) in CL-Hyper, respectively. Conclusions This study suggests that our novel MPC algorithm can safely and effectively control glucose overnight, also when CL control is initiated during hyperglycemia. PMID:24124952

A comparison of direct versus indirect laryngoscopic visualization during endotracheal intubation of lightly embalmed cadavers utilizing the GlideScope®, Storz Medi Pack Mobile Imaging System™ and the New Storz CMAC™ videolaryngoscope.

PubMed

Boedeker, Ben H; Nicholsal, Thomas A; Carpenter, Jennifer; Singh, Leighton; Bernhagen, Mary A; Murray, W Bosseau; Wadman, Michael C

2011-01-01

Studies indicate that the skills needed to use video laryngoscope systems are easily learned by healthcare providers. This study compared several video laryngoscopic (VL) systems and a direct laryngoscope (DL) view when used by medical residents practicing intubation on cadavers. The video devices used included the Storz Medi Pack Mobile Imaging System™, the Storz CMAC® VL System and the GlideScope®. After Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine (UNMC EM) residents were recruited and given a brief pre-study informational period. The cadavers were lightly embalmed. The study subjects were asked to perform intubations on two cadavers using both DL and VL while using the three different VL systems. Procedural data was recorded for each attempt and pre and post experience perceptions were collected. N=14. All subjects reported their varied previous intubation experience. The average airway score using DL: for the Storz VL was 1.54 (SD = 0.576) and for the C-MAC was 1.46 (SD = 0.637). Success in intubation of the standard airway using DL was 93% versus a 100% success rate when intubating with indirect VL visualization. Based on our data, we believe that the incorporation of VL into cadaver airway management training provided an improved learning environment for the study residents. In our study, the resident subjects were 93% successful with DL intubation even though 50% had less than 30 intubations. As well, there was a 100% success rate when intubating with indirect VL visualization. In conclusion, the researchers believe this cadaver model incorporated with VL is a powerful tool which may help improve the overall learning curve for orotracheal intubation. 2011.

New Tools and Metrics for Evaluating Army Distributed Learning

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-01-01

courseware. Designing DL to provide for more opportunities for interaction with instructors and peers is likely to increase student engagement in IMI...toward blended learning may achieve these goals. Student engagement may also be fostered to the extent that the course pro- vides sufficient numbers of... student engagement . • Design and implement DL in ways that provide greater opportunities to interact with instructors and peers. • Enforce policy of

Assessing the performance of dispersionless and dispersion-accounting methods: helium interaction with cluster models of the TiO2(110) surface.

PubMed

de Lara-Castells, María Pilar; Stoll, Hermann; Mitrushchenkov, Alexander O

2014-08-21

As a prototypical dispersion-dominated physisorption problem, we analyze here the performance of dispersionless and dispersion-accounting methodologies on the helium interaction with cluster models of the TiO2(110) surface. A special focus has been given to the dispersionless density functional dlDF and the dlDF+Das construction for the total interaction energy (K. Pernal, R. Podeswa, K. Patkowski, and K. Szalewicz, Phys. Rev. Lett. 2009, 109, 263201), where Das is an effective interatomic pairwise functional form for the dispersion. Likewise, the performance of symmetry-adapted perturbation theory (SAPT) method is evaluated, where the interacting monomers are described by density functional theory (DFT) with the dlDF, PBE, and PBE0 functionals. Our benchmarks include CCSD(T)-F12b calculations and comparative analysis on the nuclear bound states supported by the He-cluster potentials. Moreover, intra- and intermonomer correlation contributions to the physisorption interaction are analyzed through the method of increments (H. Stoll, J. Chem. Phys. 1992, 97, 8449) at the CCSD(T) level of theory. This method is further applied in conjunction with a partitioning of the Hartree-Fock interaction energy to estimate individual interaction energy components, comparing them with those obtained using the different SAPT(DFT) approaches. The cluster size evolution of dispersionless and dispersion-accounting energy components is then discussed, revealing the reduced role of the dispersionless interaction and intramonomer correlation when the extended nature of the surface is better accounted for. On the contrary, both post-Hartree-Fock and SAPT(DFT) results clearly demonstrate the high-transferability character of the effective pairwise dispersion interaction whatever the cluster model is. Our contribution also illustrates how the method of increments can be used as a valuable tool not only to achieve the accuracy of CCSD(T) calculations using large cluster models but also to evaluate the performance of SAPT(DFT) methods for the physically well-defined contributions to the total interaction energy. Overall, our work indicates the excellent performance of a dlDF+Das approach in which the parameters are optimized using the smallest cluster model of the target surface to treat van der Waals adsorbate-surface interactions.

The use of laparoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of blunt and penetrating abdominal injuries: 10-year experience at a level 1 trauma center.

PubMed

Johnson, Jeremy J; Garwe, Tabitha; Raines, Alexander R; Thurman, Joseph B; Carter, Sandra; Bender, Jeffrey S; Albrecht, Roxie M

2013-03-01

Diagnostic laparoscopy (DL) has decreased the rate of nontherapeutic laparotomy for patients suffering from penetrating injuries. We evaluated whether DL similarly lowers the rate of nontherapeutic laparotomy for patients with blunt injuries. All patients undergoing DL over a 10-year period (ie, 2001-2010) in a single level 1 trauma center were classified by the mechanism of injury. Demographic and perioperative data were compared using the Student t and Fisher exact tests. There were 131 patients included, 22 of whom sustained blunt injuries. Patients suffering from blunt injuries were more severely injured (Injury Severity Score 18.0 vs 7.3, P = .0001). The most common indication for DL after blunt injury was a computed tomographic scan concerning for bowel injury (59.1%). The rate of nontherapeutic laparotomy for patients sustaining penetrating vs blunt injury was 1.8% and nil, respectively. DL, when coupled with computed tomographic findings, is an effective tool for the initial management of patients with blunt injuries. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Atmospheric concentrations and gas-particle partitioning of PCDD/Fs and dioxin-like PCBs around Hochiminh city.

PubMed

Trinh, Minh Man; Tsai, Ching Lan; Hien, To Thi; Thuan, Ngo Thi; Chi, Kai Hsien; Lien, Chien Guo; Chang, Moo Been

2018-07-01

Atmospheric PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs samples were collected in Hochiminh city, Vietnam to address the effect of meteorological parameters, especially rainfall, on the occurrence and gas/particle partitioning of these persistent organic pollutants. The results indicate that PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs concentrations in industrial site are higher than those measured in commercial and rural sites during both rainy and dry seasons. In terms of mass concentration, ambient PCDD/F levels measured in dry season are significantly higher than those measured in rainy season while dl-PCB levels do not vary significantly between rainy and dry seasons. The difference could be attributed to different gas/particle partitioning characteristics between PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs. PCDD/Fs are found to be mainly distributed in particle phase while dl- PCBs are predominantly distributed in gas phase in both rainy and dry seasons. Additionally, Junge-Pankow and Harner-Bidleman models are applied to better understand the gas/particle partitioning of these pollutants in atmosphere. As a results, both PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs are under non-equilibrium gas/particle partitioning condition, and PCDD/Fs tend to reach equilibrium easier in rainy season while there are no clear trend for dl-PCBs. Harner-Bidleman model performs better in evaluating the gas/particle partitioning of PCDD/Fs while Junge-Pankow model results in better prediction for dl-PCBs. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Use of Multichannel Near Infrared Spectroscopy to Study Relationships Between Brain Regions and Neurocognitive Tasks of Selective/Divided Attention and 2-Back Working Memory.

PubMed

Tomita, Nozomi; Imai, Shoji; Kanayama, Yusuke; Kawashima, Issaku; Kumano, Hiroaki

2017-06-01

While dichotic listening (DL) was originally intended to measure bottom-up selective attention, it has also become a tool for measuring top-down selective attention. This study investigated the brain regions related to top-down selective and divided attention DL tasks and a 2-back task using alphanumeric and Japanese numeric sounds. Thirty-six healthy participants underwent near-infrared spectroscopy scanning while performing a top-down selective attentional DL task, a top-down divided attentional DL task, and a 2-back task. Pearson's correlations were calculated to show relationships between oxy-Hb concentration in each brain region and the score of each cognitive task. Different brain regions were activated during the DL and 2-back tasks. Brain regions activated in the top-down selective attention DL task were the left inferior prefrontal gyrus and left pars opercularis. The left temporopolar area was activated in the top-down divided attention DL task, and the left frontopolar area and left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex were activated in the 2-back task. As further evidence for the finding that each task measured different cognitive and brain area functions, neither the percentages of correct answers for the three tasks nor the response times for the selective attentional task and the divided attentional task were correlated to one another. Thus, the DL and 2-back tasks used in this study can assess multiple areas of cognitive, brain-related dysfunction to explore their relationship to different psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Comparing CMIP-3 and CMIP-5 climate projections on flooding estimation of Devils Lake of North Dakota, USA.

PubMed

Kharel, Gehendra; Kirilenko, Andrei

2018-01-01

Water level fluctuations in endorheic lakes are highly susceptible to even slight changes in climate and land use. Devils Lake (DL) in North Dakota, USA is an endorheic system that has undergone multi-decade flooding driven by changes in regional climate. Flooding mitigation strategies have centered on the release of lake water to a nearby river system through artificial outlets, resulting in legal challenges and environmental concerns related to water quality, downstream flooding, species migration, stakeholder opposition, and transboundary water conflicts between the US and Canada. Despite these drawbacks, running outlets would result in low overspill risks in the next 30 years. In this study we evaluated the efficacy of this outlet-based mitigation strategy under scenarios based on the latest IPCC future climate projections. We used the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project CMIP-5 weather patterns from 17 general circulation models (GCMs) obtained under four representative concentration pathways (RCP) scenarios and downscaled to the DL region. Then, we simulated the changes in lake water levels using the soil and water assessment tool based hydrological model of the watershed. We estimated the probability of future flood risks under those scenarios and compared those with previously estimated overspill risks under the CMIP-3 climate. The CMIP-5 ensemble projected a mean annual temperature of 5.78 °C and mean daily precipitation of 1.42 mm/day; both are higher than the existing CMIP-3 future estimates of 4.98 °C and 1.40 mm/day, respectively. The increased precipitation and higher temperature resulted in a significant increase of DL's overspill risks: 24.4-47.1% without release from outlets and 3.5-14.4% even if the outlets are operated at their combined full 17 m 3 /s capacity. The modeled increases in overspill risks indicate a greater frequency of water releases through the artificial outlets. Future risk mitigation management should include providing a flood warning signal to local resource managers, and tasking policy makers to identify additional solution measures such as land use management in the upper watershed to mitigate DL's flooding.

Differential Transcription Factor Use by the KIR2DL4 Promoter Under Constitutive and IL-2/15-Treated Conditions

PubMed Central

Presnell, Steven R.; Zhang, Lei; Chlebowy, Corrin N.; Al-Attar, Ahmad; Lutz, Charles T.

2012-01-01

KIR2DL4 is unique among human KIR genes in expression, cellular localization, structure, and function, yet the transcription factors required for its expression have not been identified. Using mutagenesis, electrophoretic mobility shift assay, and co-transfection assays, we identified two redundant Runx binding sites in the 2DL4 promoter as essential for constitutive 2DL4 transcription, with contributions by a CRE site and initiator elements. IL-2-and IL-15-stimulated human NK cell lines increased 2DL4 promoter activity, which required functional Runx, CRE, and Ets sites. Chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments show that Runx3 and Ets1 bind the 2DL4 promoter in situ. 2DL4 promoter activity had similar transcription factor requirements in T cells. Runx, CRE, and Ets binding motifs are present in 2DL4 promoters from across primate species, but other postulated transcription factor binding sites are not preserved. Differences between 2DL4 and clonally-restricted KIR promoters suggest a model that explains the unique 2DL4 expression pattern in human NK cells. PMID:22467658

Marginal Shape Deep Learning: Applications to Pediatric Lung Field Segmentation.

PubMed

Mansoor, Awais; Cerrolaza, Juan J; Perez, Geovanny; Biggs, Elijah; Nino, Gustavo; Linguraru, Marius George

2017-02-11

Representation learning through deep learning (DL) architecture has shown tremendous potential for identification, localization, and texture classification in various medical imaging modalities. However, DL applications to segmentation of objects especially to deformable objects are rather limited and mostly restricted to pixel classification. In this work, we propose marginal shape deep learning (MaShDL), a framework that extends the application of DL to deformable shape segmentation by using deep classifiers to estimate the shape parameters. MaShDL combines the strength of statistical shape models with the automated feature learning architecture of DL. Unlike the iterative shape parameters estimation approach of classical shape models that often leads to a local minima, the proposed framework is robust to local minima optimization and illumination changes. Furthermore, since the direct application of DL framework to a multi-parameter estimation problem results in a very high complexity, our framework provides an excellent run-time performance solution by independently learning shape parameter classifiers in marginal eigenspaces in the decreasing order of variation. We evaluated MaShDL for segmenting the lung field from 314 normal and abnormal pediatric chest radiographs and obtained a mean Dice similarity coefficient of 0.927 using only the four highest modes of variation (compared to 0.888 with classical ASM 1 (p-value=0.01) using same configuration). To the best of our knowledge this is the first demonstration of using DL framework for parametrized shape learning for the delineation of deformable objects.

What does fault tolerant Deep Learning need from MPI?

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

Amatya, Vinay C.; Vishnu, Abhinav; Siegel, Charles M.

Deep Learning (DL) algorithms have become the {\\em de facto} Machine Learning (ML) algorithm for large scale data analysis. DL algorithms are computationally expensive -- even distributed DL implementations which use MPI require days of training (model learning) time on commonly studied datasets. Long running DL applications become susceptible to faults -- requiring development of a fault tolerant system infrastructure, in addition to fault tolerant DL algorithms. This raises an important question: {\\em What is needed from MPI for designing fault tolerant DL implementations?} In this paper, we address this problem for permanent faults. We motivate the need for amore » fault tolerant MPI specification by an in-depth consideration of recent innovations in DL algorithms and their properties, which drive the need for specific fault tolerance features. We present an in-depth discussion on the suitability of different parallelism types (model, data and hybrid); a need (or lack thereof) for check-pointing of any critical data structures; and most importantly, consideration for several fault tolerance proposals (user-level fault mitigation (ULFM), Reinit) in MPI and their applicability to fault tolerant DL implementations. We leverage a distributed memory implementation of Caffe, currently available under the Machine Learning Toolkit for Extreme Scale (MaTEx). We implement our approaches by extending MaTEx-Caffe for using ULFM-based implementation. Our evaluation using the ImageNet dataset and AlexNet neural network topology demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed fault tolerant DL implementation using OpenMPI based ULFM.« less

Marginal shape deep learning: applications to pediatric lung field segmentation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mansoor, Awais; Cerrolaza, Juan J.; Perez, Geovany; Biggs, Elijah; Nino, Gustavo; Linguraru, Marius George

2017-02-01

Representation learning through deep learning (DL) architecture has shown tremendous potential for identification, local- ization, and texture classification in various medical imaging modalities. However, DL applications to segmentation of objects especially to deformable objects are rather limited and mostly restricted to pixel classification. In this work, we propose marginal shape deep learning (MaShDL), a framework that extends the application of DL to deformable shape segmentation by using deep classifiers to estimate the shape parameters. MaShDL combines the strength of statistical shape models with the automated feature learning architecture of DL. Unlike the iterative shape parameters estimation approach of classical shape models that often leads to a local minima, the proposed framework is robust to local minima optimization and illumination changes. Furthermore, since the direct application of DL framework to a multi-parameter estimation problem results in a very high complexity, our framework provides an excellent run-time performance solution by independently learning shape parameter classifiers in marginal eigenspaces in the decreasing order of variation. We evaluated MaShDL for segmenting the lung field from 314 normal and abnormal pediatric chest radiographs and obtained a mean Dice similarity coefficient of 0:927 using only the four highest modes of variation (compared to 0:888 with classical ASM1 (p-value=0:01) using same configuration). To the best of our knowledge this is the first demonstration of using DL framework for parametrized shape learning for the delineation of deformable objects.

Marginal Shape Deep Learning: Applications to Pediatric Lung Field Segmentation

PubMed Central

Mansoor, Awais; Cerrolaza, Juan J.; Perez, Geovanny; Biggs, Elijah; Nino, Gustavo; Linguraru, Marius George

2017-01-01

Representation learning through deep learning (DL) architecture has shown tremendous potential for identification, localization, and texture classification in various medical imaging modalities. However, DL applications to segmentation of objects especially to deformable objects are rather limited and mostly restricted to pixel classification. In this work, we propose marginal shape deep learning (MaShDL), a framework that extends the application of DL to deformable shape segmentation by using deep classifiers to estimate the shape parameters. MaShDL combines the strength of statistical shape models with the automated feature learning architecture of DL. Unlike the iterative shape parameters estimation approach of classical shape models that often leads to a local minima, the proposed framework is robust to local minima optimization and illumination changes. Furthermore, since the direct application of DL framework to a multi-parameter estimation problem results in a very high complexity, our framework provides an excellent run-time performance solution by independently learning shape parameter classifiers in marginal eigenspaces in the decreasing order of variation. We evaluated MaShDL for segmenting the lung field from 314 normal and abnormal pediatric chest radiographs and obtained a mean Dice similarity coefficient of 0.927 using only the four highest modes of variation (compared to 0.888 with classical ASM1 (p-value=0.01) using same configuration). To the best of our knowledge this is the first demonstration of using DL framework for parametrized shape learning for the delineation of deformable objects. PMID:28592911

The Accuracy of Preoperative Rigid Stroboscopy in the Evaluation of Voice Disorders in Children.

PubMed

Mansour, Jobran; Amir, Ofer; Sagiv, Doron; Alon, Eran E; Wolf, Michael; Primov-Fever, Adi

2017-07-01

Stroboscopy is considered the most appropriate tool for evaluating the function of the vocal folds but may harbor significant limitations in children. Still, direct laryngoscopy (DL), under general anesthesia, is regarded the "gold standard" for establishing a diagnosis of vocal fold pathology. The aim of the study is to examine the accuracy of preoperative rigid stroboscopy in children with voice disorders. This is a retrospective study. A retrospective study was conducted on a cohort of 39 children with dysphonia, aged 4 to 18 years, who underwent DL. Twenty-six children underwent rigid stroboscopy (RS) prior to surgery and 13 children underwent fiber-optic laryngoscopy. The preoperative diagnoses were matched with intraoperative (DL) findings. DL was found to contradict preoperative evaluations in 20 out of 39 children (51%) and in 26 out of 53 of the findings (49%). Overdiagnosis of cysts and underdiagnosis of sulci were noted in RS compared to DL. The overall rate of accuracy for RS was 64%. The accuracy of rigid stroboscopy in the evaluation of children with voice disorders was found to be similar with previous reports in adults. Copyright © 2017 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Plasma iron levels appraised 15 days after spinal cord injury in a limb movement animal model.

PubMed

Reis, F M; Esteves, A M; Tufik, S; de Mello, M T

2011-03-01

Experimental, controlled trial. The purpose of this study was to evaluate plasma iron and transferrin levels in a limb movement animal model with spinal cord injury (SCI). Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Departamento de Psicobiologia. In all, 72 male Wistar rats aged 90 days were divided into four groups: (1) acute SCI (1 day, SCI1), (2) 3 days post-SCI (SCI3), (3) 7 days post-SCI (SCI7) and (4) 15 days post-SCI (SCI15). Each of these groups had corresponding control (CTRL) and SHAM groups. Plasma iron and transferrin levels of the different groups were analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey's test. We found a significant reduction in iron plasma levels after SCI compared with the CTRL group: SCI1 (CTRL: 175±10.58 μg dl(-1); SCI: 108.28±11.7 μg dl(-1)), SCI3 (CTRL: 195.5±11.00 μg dl(-1); SCI: 127.88±12.63 μg dl(-1)), SCI7 (CTRL: 186±2.97 μg dl(-1); SCI: 89.2±15.39 μg dl(-1)) and SCI15 (CTRL: 163±5.48 μg dl(-1); SCI: 124.44±10.30 μg dl(-1)) (P<0.05; ANOVA). The SHAM1 group demonstrated a reduction in iron plasma after acute SCI (CTRL: 175±10.58 μg dl(-1); SHAM: 114.60±7.81 μg dl(-1)) (P<0.05; ANOVA). Reduced iron metabolism after SCI may be one of the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of sleep-related movement disorders.

The D0 immunoglobulin-like domain plays a central role for the stronger binding of KIR3DL2 to B27 free heavy chain dimers

PubMed Central

Hatano, Hiroko; Shaw, Jacqueline; Marquardt, Kaitlin; Zhang, Zhiyong; Gauthier, Laurent; Chanteux, Stephanie; Rossi, Benjamin; Li, Demin; Mitchell, Julie; Kollnberger, Simon

2015-01-01

We have proposed that the killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor KIR3DL2 binding more strongly to HLA-B27 (B27) β2m-free heavy chain (FHC) dimers regulates lymphocyte function in arthritis and infection. We compared the function of B27 FHC dimers with other class I heavy chains and identified contact residues in KIR3DL2. B27 FHC dimers interacted functionally with KIR3DL2 on NK and reporter cells more strongly than other class I FHC. Mutagenesis identified key residues in the D0 and other immunoglobulin-like domains which were shared and distinct from KIR3DL1, for KIR3DL2 binding to B27 and other class I FHC. We modeled B27 dimer binding to KIR3DL2 and compared experimental mutagenesis data with computational “hot spot” predictions. Modelling predicts the stronger binding of B27 dimers to KIR3DL2 is mediated by non-symmetrical complementary contacts of the D0 and D1 domains with the α1, α2 and α3 domains of both B27 heavy chains. By contrast, the D2 domain primarily contacts residues in the α2 domain of one B27 heavy chain. These findings both provide novel insights about the molecular basis of KIR3DL2 binding to HLA-B27 and other ligands and suggest an important role for KIR3DL2 HLA-B27 interactions in controlling the function of NK cells in HLA-B27+ individuals. PMID:25582852

A unified model of density limit in fusion plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zanca, P.; Sattin, F.; Escande, D. F.; Pucella, G.; Tudisco, O.

2017-05-01

In this work we identify by analytical and numerical means the conditions for the existence of a magnetic and thermal equilibrium of a cylindrical plasma, in the presence of Ohmic and/or additional power sources, heat conduction and radiation losses by light impurities. The boundary defining the solutions’ space having realistic temperature profile with small edge value takes mathematically the form of a density limit (DL). Compared to previous similar analyses the present work benefits from dealing with a more accurate set of equations. This refinement is elementary, but decisive, since it discloses a tenuous dependence of the DL on the thermal transport for configurations with an applied electric field. Thanks to this property, the DL scaling law is recovered almost identical for two largely different devices such as the ohmic tokamak and the reversed field pinch. In particular, they have in common a Greenwald scaling, linearly depending on the plasma current, quantitatively consistent with experimental results. In the tokamak case the DL dependence on any additional heating approximately follows a 0.5 power law, which is compatible with L-mode experiments. For a purely externally heated configuration, taken as a cylindrical approximation of the stellarator, the DL dependence on transport is found stronger. By adopting suitable transport models, DL takes on a Sudo-like form, in fair agreement with LHD experiments. Overall, the model provides a good zeroth-order quantitative description of the DL, applicable to widely different configurations.

Therapeutic effects of dl-3-n-butylphthalide in a transgenic mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

PubMed

Feng, Xin-Hong; Yuan, Wei; Peng, Ying; Liu, Ming-Sheng; Cui, Li-Ying

2012-05-01

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive death of the upper and lower motor neurons. Transgenic mice over-expressing a mutant form of the human SOD1 gene develop an ALS-like phenotype. Currently, there is no effective treatment or drug for the fatal disease. Previous studies reported potent efficacy of dl-3-n-butylphthalide (DL-NBP) for several neurodegenerative disorders and cerebral ischemia. SOD1-G93A mice are a mouse model of ALS. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of DL-NBP on this ALS mouse model. Sixty SOD1-G93A female mice were divided into four groups. The vehicle control group received 0 mg×kg(-1)×d(-1) DL-NBP. The experimental groups received DL-NBP with doses of 30, 60 or 120 mg×kg(-1)×d(-1), respectively. For measurement of motor activity, the hanging wire test and rotarod test were performed. Survival statistics were analyzed by Kaplan-Meier survival curves. The body weight of each mouse was recorded twice per week. The statistical motor unit number estimation (MUNE) technique was used to estimate the number of functioning motor units in gastrocnemius muscle. Muscle morphology was evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Motor neuron quantitation was performed by Nissl staining and microglia activation was observed by immunohistochemistry. Oral administration of 60 mg×kg(-1)×d(-1)1 DL-NBP significantly prolonged survival ((164.78 ± 16.67) days) of SOD1-G93A mice compared with vehicle control ((140.00 ± 16.89) days). Treating mice with DL-NBP (60 mg×kg(-1)×d(-1)) significantly decreased the progression rate of motor deficits and suppressed body weight reduction. Furthermore, we found that treating SOD1-G93A mice with DL-NBP (60 mg×kg(-1)×d(-1)) slowed the rate of MUNE reduction (P < 0.01). Motor neurons were remarkably preserved in the anterior horns in mice treated with DL-NBP (60 mg×kg(-1)×d(-1)) at the stage of 19 weeks (P < 0.01). Treating mice with DL-NBP (60 mg×kg(-1)×d(-1)) significantly reduced CD11b immunoreactivity compared with vehicle control mice (P < 0.05). No significant effect was observed in mice treated with DL-NBP of 30 or 120 mg×kg(-1)×d(-1). The post-disease-onset administration of DL-NBP significantly prolonged survival and improved motor performance in SOD1-G93A mice. DL-NBP may be a potential therapeutic agent for ALS.

Low survivorship of dauer larva in the nematode Caenorhabditis japonica, a potential comparative system for a model organism, C. elegans.

PubMed

Tanaka, Ryusei; Okumura, Etsuko; Kanzaki, Natsumi; Yoshiga, Toyoshi

2012-05-01

The nematode dauer larva (DL) is a non-aging diapause stage. The DL of the model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has been studied as a model system for aging and longevity. However, information on DL in other nematode species is limited. In this study, the survivorship, storage, energy consumption, and oxidative stress tolerance of Caenorhabditis japonica DL were examined. C. japonica is a close relative of C. elegans, but has species-specific phoretic associations with the shield bug Parastrachia japonensis. Also, its DL has a much longer lifespan than C. elegans in a biological setting. However, when C. japonica DLs were detached from their phoretic host, they did not survive more than 10 days while more than 80% of C. elegans survived under the same conditions. Also, C. japonica DL showed more active movement (swimming) and lower tolerance to oxidative stress than C. elegans DL. Because the concentration of triacylglycerol (TAG), the energy source of nematodes, did not decrease significantly during the experiment, exhaustion of the energy reservoir did not cause the low survivorship of C. japonica. Instead, low tolerance to oxidizing stress and increased production of reactive oxygen species in C. japonica were the main causes of the reduced survivorship. The fact that C. japonica DL cannot survive away from its insect host indicates that its longevity is increased by unknown factors derived from the host. Despite these significant differences between C. japonica and C. elegans, these two species are phylogenetically closely related (they are derived from a common ancestor). Therefore, C. japonica could be a good comparative system for C. elegans, and further physiological and molecular analyses of C. japonica DL may provide important information about the internal and external factors affecting the longevity of nematodes in general. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Hyperbilirubinemia as a Diagnostic Tool for the Prediction of Appendicular Perforation: A Prospective Study.

PubMed

Saxena, Divish; Tandon, Mrinal; Shah, Yunus; Gedam, B S

2015-01-01

The certainty of diagnosing acute appendicitis in patients presenting with right iliac fossa pain still remains a mystery though acute appendicitis being the commonest surgical procedure done in emergency. In acute appendicitis, serum bilirubin levels are raised due to hepatocellular damage as a result of direct insult caused by Gram-negative bacterial endotoxemia. The need for the study is to conclude whether the serum bilirubin can be considered as a new laboratory marker to aid in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis and if so, does it have the predictive capacity to warn us about appendicular perforation. This is a prospective study carried out at rural tertiary healthcare center and includes 213 patients clinically diagnosed as acute appendicitis. Out of 213 patients, raised serum bilirubin ≥1.2 mg/dl was present in 195 (91.5%) patients, out of which 194 (99.4%) patients had histopathologically inflamed appendix and this difference was statistically highly significant with p-value < 0.0001. In this study, 32 patients had perforated appendix. Out of those, 30 patients had bilirubin ≥ 4 mg/dl and 2 patients had bilirubin level between 1.2 and < 4 mg/dl. Raised serum bilirubin (≥4 mg/dl) was present in 35 (17.9%) patients, out of which 30 (87.7%) patients had perforated appendix. Saxena D, Tandon M, Shah Y, Gedam BS. Hyperbilirubinemia as a Diagnostic Tool for the Prediction of Appendicular Perforation: A Prospective Study. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2015;5(2):87-89.

Seasonal variations in atmospheric concentrations and gas-particle partitioning of PCDD/Fs and dioxin-like PCBs around industrial sites in Shanghai, China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Die, Qingqi; Nie, Zhiqiang; Liu, Feng; Tian, Yajun; Fang, Yanyan; Gao, Hefeng; Tian, Shulei; He, Jie; Huang, Qifei

2015-10-01

Gas and particle phase air samples were collected in summer and winter around industrial sites in Shanghai, China, to allow the concentrations, profiles, and gas-particle partitioning of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dl-PCBs) to be determined. The total 2,3,7,8-substituted PCDD/F and dl-PCB toxic equivalent (TEQ) concentrations were 14.2-182 fg TEQ/m3 (mean 56.8 fg TEQ/m3) in summer and 21.9-479 fg TEQ/m3 (mean 145 fg TEQ/m3) in winter. The PCDD/Fs tended to be predominantly in the particulate phase, while the dl-PCBs were predominantly found in the gas phase, and the proportions of all of the PCDD/F and dl-PCB congeners in the particle phase increased as the temperature decreased. The logarithms of the gas-particle partition coefficients correlated well with the subcooled liquid vapor pressures of the PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs for most of the samples. Gas-particle partitioning of the PCDD/Fs deviated from equilibrium either in summer or winter close to local sources, and the Junge-Pankow model and predictions made using a model based on the octanol-air partition coefficient fitted the measured particulate PCDD/F fractions well, indicating that absorption and adsorption mechanism both contributed to the partitioning process. However, gas-particle equilibrium of the dl-PCBs was reached more easily in winter than in summer. The Junge-Pankow model predictions fitted the dl-PCB data better than did the predictions made using the model based on the octanol-air partition coefficient, indicating that adsorption mechanism made dominated contribution to the partitioning process.

Reagent- and separation-free measurements of urine creatinine concentration using stamping surface enhanced Raman scattering (S-SERS)

PubMed Central

Li, Ming; Du, Yong; Zhao, Fusheng; Zeng, Jianbo; Mohan, Chandra; Shih, Wei-Chuan

2015-01-01

We report a novel reagent- and separation-free method for urine creatinine concentration measurement using stamping surface enhanced Raman scattering (S-SERS) technique with nanoporous gold disk (NPGD) plasmonic substrates, a label-free, multiplexed molecular sensing and imaging technique recently developed by us. The performance of this new technology is evaluated by the detection and quantification of creatinine spiked in three different liquids: creatinine in water, mixture of creatinine and urea in water, and creatinine in artificial urine within physiologically relevant concentration ranges. Moreover, the potential application of our method is demonstrated by creatinine concentration measurements in urine samples collected from a mouse model of nephritis. The limit of detection of creatinine was 13.2 nM (0.15 µg/dl) and 0.68 mg/dl in water and urine, respectively. Our method would provide an alternative tool for rapid, cost-effective, and reliable urine analysis for non-invasive diagnosis and monitoring of renal function. PMID:25798309

Effect of ketogenic Mediterranean diet with phytoextracts and low carbohydrates/high-protein meals on weight, cardiovascular risk factors, body composition and diet compliance in Italian council employees.

PubMed

Paoli, Antonio; Cenci, Lorenzo; Grimaldi, Keith A

2011-10-12

There has been increased interest in recent years in very low carbohydrate ketogenic diets (VLCKD) that, even though they are much discussed and often opposed, have undoubtedly been shown to be effective, at least in the short to medium term, as a tool to tackle obesity, hyperlipidemia and some cardiovascular risk factors. For this reason the ketogenic diet represents an interesting option but unfortunately suffers from a low compliance. The aim of this pilot study is to ascertain the safety and effects of a modified ketogenic diet that utilizes ingredients which are low in carbohydrates but are formulated to simulate its aspect and taste and also contain phytoextracts to add beneficial effects of important vegetable components. The study group consisted of 106 Rome council employees with a body mass index of ≥ 25, age between 18 and 65 years (19 male and 87 female; mean age 48.49 ± 10.3). We investigated the effects of a modified ketogenic diet based on green vegetables, olive oil, fish and meat plus dishes composed of high quality protein and virtually zero carbohydrate but which mimic their taste, with the addition of some herbal extracts (KEMEPHY ketogenic Mediterranean with phytoextracts). Calories in the diet were unlimited. Measurements were taken before and after 6 weeks of diet. There were no significant changes in BUN, ALT, AST, GGT and blood creatinine. We detected a significant (p < 0.0001) reduction in BMI (31.45 Kg/m2 to 29.01 Kg/m2), body weight (86.15 kg to 79.43 Kg), percentage of fat mass (41.24% to 34.99%), waist circumference (106.56 cm to 97.10 cm), total cholesterol (204 mg/dl to 181 mg/dl), LDLc (150 mg/dl to 136 mg/dl), triglycerides (119 mg/dl to 93 mg/dl) and blood glucose (96 mg/dl to 91 mg/dl). There was a significant (p < 0.0001) increase in HDLc (46 mg/dl to 52 mg/dl). The KEMEPHY diet lead to weight reduction, improvements in cardiovascular risk markers, reduction in waist circumference and showed good compliance.

Influence of highly distinctive structural properties on the excitability of pyramidal neurons in monkey visual and prefrontal cortices

PubMed Central

Amatrudo, Joseph M.; Weaver, Christina M.; Crimins, Johanna L.; Hof, Patrick R.; Rosene, Douglas L.; Luebke, Jennifer I.

2012-01-01

Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings and high-resolution 3D morphometric analyses of layer 3 pyramidal neurons in in vitro slices of monkey primary visual cortex (V1) and dorsolateral granular prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) revealed that neurons in these two brain areas possess highly distinctive structural and functional properties. Area V1 pyramidal neurons are much smaller than dlPFC neurons, with significantly less extensive dendritic arbors and far fewer dendritic spines. Relative to dlPFC neurons, V1 neurons have a significantly higher input resistance, depolarized resting membrane potential and higher action potential (AP) firing rates. Most V1 neurons exhibit both phasic and regular-spiking tonic AP firing patterns, while dlPFC neurons exhibit only tonic firing. Spontaneous postsynaptic currents are lower in amplitude and have faster kinetics in V1 than in dlPFC neurons, but are no different in frequency. Three-dimensional reconstructions of V1 and dlPFC neurons were incorporated into computational models containing Hodgkin-Huxley and AMPA- and GABAA-receptor gated channels. Morphology alone largely accounted for observed passive physiological properties, but led to AP firing rates that differed more than observed empirically, and to synaptic responses that opposed empirical results. Accordingly, modeling predicts that active channel conductances differ between V1 and dlPFC neurons. The unique features of V1 and dlPFC neurons are likely fundamental determinants of area-specific network behavior. The compact electrotonic arbor and increased excitability of V1 neurons support the rapid signal integration required for early processing of visual information. The greater connectivity and dendritic complexity of dlPFC neurons likely support higher level cognitive functions including working memory and planning. PMID:23035077

Definitions (and Current Controversies) of Diabetes and Prediabetes.

PubMed

Buysschaert, Martin; Medina, Jose-Luis; Buysschaert, Benoit; Bergman, Michael

2016-01-01

Diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and prediabetes is mandatory. Chronic hyperglycemia in diabetes is associated with long-term micro- and macrovascular as well as with neurological complications. Prediabetes predisposes patients to develop diabetes and macrovascular disease. Diagnosis of diabetes is established on (at least) one of the following criteria: a fasting plasma glucose ≥ 126 mg/dl (7.0 mmol/l), a casual plasma glucose ≥ 200 mg/dl (11.1 mmol/l) in the presence of symptoms, a 2-h plasma glucose during the 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) ≥ 200 mg/dl (11.1 mmol/l) and/or an HbA1c ≥ 6.5%. Prediabetes is defined by the Position Statement of the American Diabetes Association as a fasting plasma glucose between 100 and 125 mg/dl (5.6 - 6.9 mmol/l) [a condition called Impaired Fasting Glucose] and/or by a 2-h plasma glucose during OGTT 140 - 199 mg/dl (7.8 - 11.0 mmol) [Impaired Glucose Tolerance] and/or a HbA1c level 5.7 - 6.4%, with however some potential discordance between tests. The threshold of fasting plasma glucose defining Impaired Fasting Glucose as well as the adequacy of HbA1c as a correct diagnostic tool for prediabetes is still debated.

Deep Learning and Image Processing for Automated Crack Detection and Defect Measurement in Underground Structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panella, F.; Boehm, J.; Loo, Y.; Kaushik, A.; Gonzalez, D.

2018-05-01

This work presents the combination of Deep-Learning (DL) and image processing to produce an automated cracks recognition and defect measurement tool for civil structures. The authors focus on tunnel civil structures and survey and have developed an end to end tool for asset management of underground structures. In order to maintain the serviceability of tunnels, regular inspection is needed to assess their structural status. The traditional method of carrying out the survey is the visual inspection: simple, but slow and relatively expensive and the quality of the output depends on the ability and experience of the engineer as well as on the total workload (stress and tiredness may influence the ability to observe and record information). As a result of these issues, in the last decade there is the desire to automate the monitoring using new methods of inspection. The present paper has the goal of combining DL with traditional image processing to create a tool able to detect, locate and measure the structural defect.

Discover the pythagorean theorem using interactive multimedia learning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adhitama, I.; Sujadi, I.; Pramudya, I.

2018-04-01

In learning process students are required to play an active role in learning. They do not just accept the concept directly from teachers, but also build their own knowledge so that the learning process becomes more meaningful. Based on the observation, when learning Pythagorean theorem, students got difficulty on determining hypotenuse. One of the solution to solve this problem is using an interactive multimedia learning. This article aims to discuss the interactive multimedia as learning media for students. This was a Research and Development (R&D) by using ADDIE model of development. The results obtained was multimedia which was developed proper for students as learning media. Besides, on Phytagorian theorem learning activity we also compare Discovery Learning (DL) model with interactive multimedia and DL without interactive multimedia, and obtained that DL with interactive gave positive effect better than DL without interactive multimedia. It was also obtainde that interactive multimedia can attract and increase the interest ot the students on learning math. Therefore, the use of interactive multimedia on DL procees can improve student learning achievement.

Delayed luminescence: an experimental protocol for Chinese herbal medicines.

PubMed

Sun, Mengmeng; van Wijk, Roeland; van Wijk, Eduard; Wang, Mei; van Wietmarschen, Herman; Hankemeier, Thomas; van der Greef, Jan

2016-09-01

In Chinese medicine, raw herbal materials are used in processed and unprocessed forms aiming to meet the different requirements of clinical practice. To assure the chemical quality and therapeutic properties of the herbs, fast and integrated systematic assays are required. So far, such assays have not been established. Delayed luminescence (DL) refers to a decaying long-term ultraweak photon emission after exposure to light. Its decay kinetics under certain conditions may be a sensitive indicator reflecting the internal structural and chemical/physiological state of a biological system. DL measurements have been used in many applications for quality control. However, relatively little research has been reported on dried plant material such as Chinese herbs. The objective of the present study is to establish a protocol for direct and rapid DL measurements of dried Chinese herbal materials, including the determination of the dependence on: (a) the optimal excitation time utilizing a white light source; (b) the optimal size of the grinded herbal particle; and (c) the humidity conditions before and during measurement. Results indicate that stable and reproducible curves of DL photon emission depend mainly on the water content of herbal materials. To investigate the application of the established DL measurement protocol, non-processed and processed Aconitum (Aconitum carmichaelii Debx.), wild and cultivated rhubarb (Rheum palmatum L.) and ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A.Mey) of different ages were measured using DL. The results suggest that DL technology is a potential tool for assessment of dried Chinese herb qualities. The results warrant a further exploration of this technique in relation to therapeutic properties of the herbs. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Deep learning for digital pathology image analysis: A comprehensive tutorial with selected use cases

PubMed Central

Janowczyk, Andrew; Madabhushi, Anant

2016-01-01

Background: Deep learning (DL) is a representation learning approach ideally suited for image analysis challenges in digital pathology (DP). The variety of image analysis tasks in the context of DP includes detection and counting (e.g., mitotic events), segmentation (e.g., nuclei), and tissue classification (e.g., cancerous vs. non-cancerous). Unfortunately, issues with slide preparation, variations in staining and scanning across sites, and vendor platforms, as well as biological variance, such as the presentation of different grades of disease, make these image analysis tasks particularly challenging. Traditional approaches, wherein domain-specific cues are manually identified and developed into task-specific “handcrafted” features, can require extensive tuning to accommodate these variances. However, DL takes a more domain agnostic approach combining both feature discovery and implementation to maximally discriminate between the classes of interest. While DL approaches have performed well in a few DP related image analysis tasks, such as detection and tissue classification, the currently available open source tools and tutorials do not provide guidance on challenges such as (a) selecting appropriate magnification, (b) managing errors in annotations in the training (or learning) dataset, and (c) identifying a suitable training set containing information rich exemplars. These foundational concepts, which are needed to successfully translate the DL paradigm to DP tasks, are non-trivial for (i) DL experts with minimal digital histology experience, and (ii) DP and image processing experts with minimal DL experience, to derive on their own, thus meriting a dedicated tutorial. Aims: This paper investigates these concepts through seven unique DP tasks as use cases to elucidate techniques needed to produce comparable, and in many cases, superior to results from the state-of-the-art hand-crafted feature-based classification approaches. Results: Specifically, in this tutorial on DL for DP image analysis, we show how an open source framework (Caffe), with a singular network architecture, can be used to address: (a) nuclei segmentation (F-score of 0.83 across 12,000 nuclei), (b) epithelium segmentation (F-score of 0.84 across 1735 regions), (c) tubule segmentation (F-score of 0.83 from 795 tubules), (d) lymphocyte detection (F-score of 0.90 across 3064 lymphocytes), (e) mitosis detection (F-score of 0.53 across 550 mitotic events), (f) invasive ductal carcinoma detection (F-score of 0.7648 on 50 k testing patches), and (g) lymphoma classification (classification accuracy of 0.97 across 374 images). Conclusion: This paper represents the largest comprehensive study of DL approaches in DP to date, with over 1200 DP images used during evaluation. The supplemental online material that accompanies this paper consists of step-by-step instructions for the usage of the supplied source code, trained models, and input data. PMID:27563488

Deep learning for digital pathology image analysis: A comprehensive tutorial with selected use cases.

PubMed

Janowczyk, Andrew; Madabhushi, Anant

2016-01-01

Deep learning (DL) is a representation learning approach ideally suited for image analysis challenges in digital pathology (DP). The variety of image analysis tasks in the context of DP includes detection and counting (e.g., mitotic events), segmentation (e.g., nuclei), and tissue classification (e.g., cancerous vs. non-cancerous). Unfortunately, issues with slide preparation, variations in staining and scanning across sites, and vendor platforms, as well as biological variance, such as the presentation of different grades of disease, make these image analysis tasks particularly challenging. Traditional approaches, wherein domain-specific cues are manually identified and developed into task-specific "handcrafted" features, can require extensive tuning to accommodate these variances. However, DL takes a more domain agnostic approach combining both feature discovery and implementation to maximally discriminate between the classes of interest. While DL approaches have performed well in a few DP related image analysis tasks, such as detection and tissue classification, the currently available open source tools and tutorials do not provide guidance on challenges such as (a) selecting appropriate magnification, (b) managing errors in annotations in the training (or learning) dataset, and (c) identifying a suitable training set containing information rich exemplars. These foundational concepts, which are needed to successfully translate the DL paradigm to DP tasks, are non-trivial for (i) DL experts with minimal digital histology experience, and (ii) DP and image processing experts with minimal DL experience, to derive on their own, thus meriting a dedicated tutorial. This paper investigates these concepts through seven unique DP tasks as use cases to elucidate techniques needed to produce comparable, and in many cases, superior to results from the state-of-the-art hand-crafted feature-based classification approaches. Specifically, in this tutorial on DL for DP image analysis, we show how an open source framework (Caffe), with a singular network architecture, can be used to address: (a) nuclei segmentation (F-score of 0.83 across 12,000 nuclei), (b) epithelium segmentation (F-score of 0.84 across 1735 regions), (c) tubule segmentation (F-score of 0.83 from 795 tubules), (d) lymphocyte detection (F-score of 0.90 across 3064 lymphocytes), (e) mitosis detection (F-score of 0.53 across 550 mitotic events), (f) invasive ductal carcinoma detection (F-score of 0.7648 on 50 k testing patches), and (g) lymphoma classification (classification accuracy of 0.97 across 374 images). This paper represents the largest comprehensive study of DL approaches in DP to date, with over 1200 DP images used during evaluation. The supplemental online material that accompanies this paper consists of step-by-step instructions for the usage of the supplied source code, trained models, and input data.

KIR2DL2/2DL3-E35 alleles are functionally stronger than -Q35 alleles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bari, Rafijul; Thapa, Rajoo; Bao, Ju; Li, Ying; Zheng, Jie; Leung, Wing

2016-03-01

KIR2DL2 and KIR2DL3 segregate as alleles of a single locus in the centromeric motif of the killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) gene family. Although KIR2DL2/L3 polymorphism is known to be associated with many human diseases and is an important factor for donor selection in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, the molecular determinant of functional diversity among various alleles is unclear. In this study we found that KIR2DL2/L3 with glutamic acid at position 35 (E35) are functionally stronger than those with glutamine at the same position (Q35). Cytotoxicity assay showed that NK cells from HLA-C1 positive donors with KIR2DL2/L3-E35 could kill more target cells lacking their ligands than NK cells with the weaker -Q35 alleles, indicating better licensing of KIR2DL2/L3+ NK cells with the stronger alleles. Molecular modeling analysis reveals that the glutamic acid, which is negatively charged, interacts with positively charged histidine located at position 55, thereby stabilizing KIR2DL2/L3 dimer and reducing entropy loss when KIR2DL2/3 binds to HLA-C ligand. The results of this study will be important for future studies of KIR2DL2/L3-associated diseases as well as for donor selection in allogeneic stem cell transplantation.

The silent burden of anaemia in Tanzanian children: a community-based study.

PubMed Central

Schellenberg, D.; Schellenberg, J. R. M. Armstrong; Mushi, A.; Savigny, D. de; Mgalula, L.; Mbuya, C.; Victora, C. G.

2003-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To document the prevalence, age-distribution, and risk factors for anaemia in Tanzanian children less than 5 years old, thereby assisting in the development of effective strategies for controlling anaemia. METHODS: Cluster sampling was used to identify 2417 households at random from four contiguous districts in south-eastern United Republic of Tanzania in mid-1999. Data on various social and medical parameters were collected and analysed. FINDINGS: Blood haemoglobin concentrations (Hb) were available for 1979 of the 2131 (93%) children identified and ranged from 1.7 to 18.6 g/dl. Overall, 87% (1722) of children had an Hb <11 g/dl, 39% (775) had an Hb <8 g/dl and 3% (65) had an Hb <5 g/dl. The highest prevalence of anaemia of all three levels was in children aged 6-11 months, of whom 10% (22/226) had an Hb <5 g/dl. However, the prevalence of anaemia was already high in children aged 1-5 months (85% had an Hb <11 g/dl, 42% had an Hb <8 g/dl, and 6% had an Hb <5 g/dl). Anaemia was usually asymptomatic and when symptoms arose they were nonspecific and rarely identified as a serious illness by the care provider. A recent history of treatment with antimalarials and iron was rare. Compliance with vaccinations delivered through the Expanded Programme of Immunization (EPI) was 82% and was not associated with risk of anaemia. CONCLUSION: Anaemia is extremely common in south-eastern United Republic of Tanzania, even in very young infants. Further implementation of the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness algorithm should improve the case management of anaemia. However, the asymptomatic nature of most episodes of anaemia highlights the need for preventive strategies. The EPI has good coverage of the target population and it may be an appropriate channel for delivering tools for controlling anaemia and malaria. PMID:14576890

Modeling of the Dorsal Gradient across Species Reveals Interaction between Embryo Morphology and Toll Signaling Pathway during Evolution

PubMed Central

Koslen, Hannah R.; Chiel, Hillel J.; Mizutani, Claudia Mieko

2014-01-01

Morphogenetic gradients are essential to allocate cell fates in embryos of varying sizes within and across closely related species. We previously showed that the maternal NF-κB/Dorsal (Dl) gradient has acquired different shapes in Drosophila species, which result in unequally scaled germ layers along the dorso-ventral axis and the repositioning of the neuroectodermal borders. Here we combined experimentation and mathematical modeling to investigate which factors might have contributed to the fast evolutionary changes of this gradient. To this end, we modified a previously developed model that employs differential equations of the main biochemical interactions of the Toll (Tl) signaling pathway, which regulates Dl nuclear transport. The original model simulations fit well the D. melanogaster wild type, but not mutant conditions. To broaden the applicability of this model and probe evolutionary changes in gradient distributions, we adjusted a set of 19 independent parameters to reproduce three quantified experimental conditions (i.e. Dl levels lowered, nuclear size and density increased or decreased). We next searched for the most relevant parameters that reproduce the species-specific Dl gradients. We show that adjusting parameters relative to morphological traits (i.e. embryo diameter, nuclear size and density) alone is not sufficient to reproduce the species Dl gradients. Since components of the Tl pathway simulated by the model are fast-evolving, we next asked which parameters related to Tl would most effectively reproduce these gradients and identified a particular subset. A sensitivity analysis reveals the existence of nonlinear interactions between the two fast-evolving traits tested above, namely the embryonic morphological changes and Tl pathway components. Our modeling further suggests that distinct Dl gradient shapes observed in closely related melanogaster sub-group lineages may be caused by similar sequence modifications in Tl pathway components, which are in agreement with their phylogenetic relationships. PMID:25165818

Tumor-specific cytolysis caused by an E1B55K-attenuated adenovirus in nasopharyngeal carcinoma is augmented by cisplatin.

PubMed

Liu, Ran-Yi; Peng, Ji-Lin; Li, Yong-Qiang; Huang, Bi-Jun; Lin, Huan-Xin; Zhou, Ling; Luo, Hui-Ling; Huang, Wenlin

2013-12-01

An E1B55K-attenuated adenovirus, dl1520, has been shown to replicate selectively in and lyse tumor cells. In this study, the antitumor activities of dl1520, alone or in combination with the chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin, were investigated in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cells. The results demonstrated that dl1520 replicated in and destroyed NPC cells, and induced apoptosis in vitro. In a nude mouse xenograft model, dl1520 significantly inhibited the growth of NPC cell xenografts, and the viral replication was associated with tumor regression. Importantly, the antitumor activity of dl1520 was augmented by the addition of cisplatin both in vitro and in vivo, showing that dl1520 and cisplatin have a synergistic anti-NPC effect. These data suggest that dl1520 exerts an efficient anti-NPC activity through oncolysis and the induction of apoptosis, which is enhanced synergistically by cisplatin. These findings indicate that oncolytic viral therapeutics using the E1B55K-attenuated adenovirus dl1520 could be promising in the comprehensive treatment of NPC, especially in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

SODA: Smart Objects, Dumb Archives

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nelson, Michael L.; Maly, Kurt; Zubair, Mohammad; Shen, Stewart N. T.

2004-01-01

We present the Smart Object, Dumb Archive (SODA) model for digital libraries (DLs). The SODA model transfers functionality traditionally associated with archives to the archived objects themselves. We are exploiting this shift of responsibility to facilitate other DL goals, such as interoperability, object intelligence and mobility, and heterogeneity. Objects in a SODA DL negotiate presentation of content and handle their own terms and conditions. In this paper we present implementations of our smart objects, buckets, and our dumb archive (DA). We discuss the status of buckets and DA and how they are used in a variety of DL projects.

Allelic variation in KIR2DL3 generates a KIR2DL2-like receptor with increased binding to its HLA-C ligand.

PubMed

Frazier, William R; Steiner, Noriko; Hou, Lihua; Dakshanamurthy, Sivanesan; Hurley, Carolyn Katovich

2013-06-15

Although extensive homology exists between their extracellular domains, NK cell inhibitory receptors killer Ig-like receptor (KIR) 2DL2*001 and KIR2DL3*001 have previously been shown to differ substantially in their HLA-C binding avidity. To explore the largely uncharacterized impact of allelic diversity, the most common KIR2DL2/3 allelic products in European American and African American populations were evaluated for surface expression and binding affinity to their HLA-C group 1 and 2 ligands. Although no significant differences in the degree of cell membrane localization were detected in a transfected human NKL cell line by flow cytometry, surface plasmon resonance and KIR binding to a panel of HLA allotypes demonstrated that KIR2DL3*005 differed significantly from other KIR2DL3 allelic products in its ability to bind HLA-C. The increased affinity and avidity of KIR2DL3*005 for its ligand was also demonstrated to have a larger impact on the inhibition of IFN-γ production by the human KHYG-1 NK cell line compared with KIR2DL3*001, a low-affinity allelic product. Site-directed mutagenesis established that the combination of arginine at residue 11 and glutamic acid at residue 35 in KIR2DL3*005 were critical to the observed phenotype. Although these residues are distal to the KIR/HLA-C interface, molecular modeling suggests that alteration in the interdomain hinge angle of KIR2DL3*005 toward that found in KIR2DL2*001, another strong receptor of the KIR2DL2/3 family, may be the cause of this increased affinity. The regain of inhibitory capacity by KIR2DL3*005 suggests that the rapidly evolving KIR locus may be responding to relatively recent selective pressures placed upon certain human populations.

Allelic Variation in KIR2DL3 Generates a KIR2DL2-like Receptor with Increased Binding to Its HLA-C Ligand12

PubMed Central

Frazier, William R.; Steiner, Noriko; Hou, Lihua; Dakshanamurthy, Sivanesan; Hurley, Carolyn Katovich

2013-01-01

Although extensive homology exists between their extracellular domains, natural killer cell inhibitory receptors KIR2DL2*001 and KIR2DL3*001 have previously been shown to differ substantially in their HLA-C binding avidity. To explore the largely uncharacterized impact of allelic diversity, the most common KIR2DL2/3 allelic products in European American and African American populations were evaluated for surface expression and binding affinity to their HLA-C group 1 and 2 ligands. Although no significant differences in the degree of cell membrane localization were detected in a transfected human NKL cell line by flow cytometry, surface plasmon resonance and KIR binding to a panel of HLA allotypes demonstrated that KIR2DL3*005 differed significantly from other KIR2DL3 allelic products in its ability to bind HLA-C. The increased affinity and avidity of KIR2DL3*005 for its ligand was also demonstrated to have a larger impact on the inhibition of IFN-γ production by the human KHYG-1 NK cell line compared to KIR2DL3*001, a low affinity allelic product. Site-directed mutagenesis established that the combination of arginine at residue 11 and glutamic acid at residue 35 in KIR2DL3*005 were critical to the observed phenotype. Although these residues are distal to the KIR/HLA-C interface, molecular modeling suggests that alteration in the interdomain hinge angle of KIR2DL3*005 towards that found in KIR2DL2*001, another strong receptor of the KIR2DL2/3 family, may be the cause of this increased affinity. The regain of inhibitory capacity by KIR2DL3*005 suggests that the rapidly evolving KIR locus may be responding to relatively recent selective pressures placed upon certain human populations. PMID:23686481

DL-2-amino-3-phosphonopropionic acid protects primary neurons from oxygen-glucose deprivation induced injury.

PubMed

Cui, Di; Xu, Jun; Xu, Quanyi; Zuo, Guokun

2017-02-21

Cerebral infarction is a type of ischemic stroke and is one of the main causes of irreversible brain damage. Although multiple neuroprotective agents have been investigated recently, the potential of DL-2-amino-3-phosphonopropionic acid (DL-AP3) in treating oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD)-induced neuronal injury, has not been clarified yet. This study was aimed to explore the role of DL-AP3 in primary neuronal cell cultures. Primary neurons were divided into four groups: (1) a control group that was not treated; (2) DL-AP3 group treated with 10 μM of DL-AP3; (3) OGD group, in which neurons were cultured under OGD conditions; and (4) OGD + DL-AP3 group, in which OGD model was first established and then the cells were treated with 10 μM of DL-AP3. Neuronal viability and apoptosis were measured using Cell Counting Kit-8 and flow cytometry. Expressions of phospho-Akt1 (p-Akt1) and cytochrome c were detected using Western blot. The results showed that DL-AP3 did not affect neuronal viability and apoptosis in DL-AP3 group, nor it changed p-Akt1 and cytochrome c expression (p > 0.05). In OGD + DL-AP3 group, DL-AP3 significantly attenuated the inhibitory effects of OGD on neuronal viability (p < 0.001), and reduced OGD induced apoptosis (p < 0.01). Additionally, the down-regulation of p-Akt1 and up-regulation of cytochrome c, induced by OGD, were recovered to some extent after DL-AP3 treatment (p < 0.05 or p < 0.001). Overall, DL-AP3 could protect primary neurons from OGD-induced injury by affecting the viability and apoptosis of neurons, and by regulating the expressions of p-Akt1 and cytochrome c.

A deep learning approach to estimate stress distribution: a fast and accurate surrogate of finite-element analysis.

PubMed

Liang, Liang; Liu, Minliang; Martin, Caitlin; Sun, Wei

2018-01-01

Structural finite-element analysis (FEA) has been widely used to study the biomechanics of human tissues and organs, as well as tissue-medical device interactions, and treatment strategies. However, patient-specific FEA models usually require complex procedures to set up and long computing times to obtain final simulation results, preventing prompt feedback to clinicians in time-sensitive clinical applications. In this study, by using machine learning techniques, we developed a deep learning (DL) model to directly estimate the stress distributions of the aorta. The DL model was designed and trained to take the input of FEA and directly output the aortic wall stress distributions, bypassing the FEA calculation process. The trained DL model is capable of predicting the stress distributions with average errors of 0.492% and 0.891% in the Von Mises stress distribution and peak Von Mises stress, respectively. This study marks, to our knowledge, the first study that demonstrates the feasibility and great potential of using the DL technique as a fast and accurate surrogate of FEA for stress analysis. © 2018 The Author(s).

Predicting failure of glyburide therapy in gestational diabetes.

PubMed

Harper, L M; Glover, A V; Biggio, J R; Tita, A

2016-05-01

We sought to develop a prediction model to identify women with gestational diabetes (GDM) who require insulin to achieve glycemic control. Retrospective cohort of all singletons with GDM treated with glyburide from 2007 to 2013. Glyburide failure was defined as reaching glyburide 20 mg day(-1) and receiving insulin. Glyburide success was defined as any glyburide dose without insulin and >70% of visits with glycemic control. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to create a prediction model. Of the 360 women, 63 (17.5%) qualified as glyburide failure and 157 (43.6%) as glyburide success. The final prediction model for glyburide failure included prior GDM, GDM diagnosis ⩽26 weeks, 1-h glucose challenge test ⩾228 mg dl(-1), 3-h glucose tolerance test 1-h value ⩾221 mg dl(-1), ⩾7 postprandial blood sugars >120 mg dl(-1) in the week glyburide started and ⩾1 blood sugar >200 mg dl(-1). The model accurately classified 81% of subjects. Women with GDM who will require insulin can be identified at the initiation of pharmacological therapy.

Exposure to long-term air pollution and road traffic noise in relation to cholesterol: A cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Sørensen, Mette; Hjortebjerg, Dorrit; Eriksen, Kirsten T; Ketzel, Matthias; Tjønneland, Anne; Overvad, Kim; Raaschou-Nielsen, Ole

2015-12-01

Exposure to traffic noise and air pollution have both been associated with cardiovascular disease, though the mechanisms behind are not yet clear. We aimed to investigate whether the two exposures were associated with levels of cholesterol in a cross-sectional design. In 1993–1997, 39,863 participants aged 50–64 year and living in the Greater Copenhagen area were enrolled in a population-based cohort study. For each participant, non-fasting total cholesterol was determined in whole blood samples on the day of enrolment. Residential addresses 5-years preceding enrolment were identified in a national register and road traffic noise (Lden) were modeled for all addresses. For air pollution, nitrogen dioxide (NO2) was modeled at all addresses using a dispersion model and PM2.5 was modeled at all enrolment addresses using a land-use regression model. Analyses were done using linear regression with adjustment for potential confounders as well as mutual adjustment for the three exposures. Baseline residential exposure to the interquartile range of road traffic noise,NO2 and PM2.5 was associated with a 0.58 mg/dl (95% confidence interval: −0.09; 1.25), a 0.68 mg/dl (0.22; 1.16) and a 0.78 mg/dl (0.22; 1.34) higher level of total cholesterol in single pollutant models, respectively. In two pollutant models with adjustment for noise in air pollution models and vice versa, the association between air pollution and cholesterol remained for both air pollution variables (NO2: 0.72 (0.11; 1.34); PM2.5: 0.70 (0.12; 1.28) mg/dl), whereas there was no association for noise (−0.08mg/dl). In three-pollutant models (NO2, PM2.5 and road traffic noise), estimates for NO2 and PM2.5 were slightly diminished (NO2: 0.58 (−0.05; 1.22); PM2.5: 0.57 (−0.02; 1.17) mg/dl). Air pollution and possibly also road traffic noise may be associated with slightly higher levels of cholesterol, though associations for the two exposures were difficult to separate.

[Genotyping and evaluation of infection dynamics in a Colombian isolate of Leptospira santarosai in hamster as an experimental model].

PubMed

Agudelo-Flórez, Piedad; Durango, Harold; Aranzazu, Diego; Rodas, Juan David; Travi, Bruno

2014-01-01

Is necessary to develop models for the study of leptospirosis. To genotype a Colombian strain of Leptospira isolated from a human with Weil´s syndrome and to evaluate its infection dynamics in the hamster experimental model. Genotyping was performed by amplification and sequence analysis of the rrs 16S and lipL32 genes. The median lethal dose was determined in intraperitoneally inoculated hamsters. The patterns of clinical chemistry, the duration of leptospiremia, leptospiruria and pathological findings were studied and compared in the same animal model infected with L. interrogans (Fiocruz L1-130). Molecular typing revealed that the isolate corresponded to the pathogenic species L. santarosai, which was recovered from hamsters´ kidneys and lungs and detected by lipL32 PCR from day 3 post-infection in these organs. There was a marked increase of C-reactive protein in animals at day 5 post-infection (3.25 mg/dl; normal value: 0.3 mg/dl) with decreases by day 18 (2.60 mg/dl: normal value: 0.8 mg/dl). Biomarkers of urea showed changes consistent with possible renal acute failure (day 5 post-infection: 49.01 mg/dl and day 18 post-infection: 53.71 mg/dl). Histopathological changes included interstitial pneumonia with varying degrees of hemorrhage and interstitial nephritis. The pathogenic species L. santarosai was identified in Colombia. Its pathogenicity as determined by tropism to lung and kidney was comparable to that of L. interrogans Fiocruz L1-130, well known for its virulence and pulmonar tropism. The biological aspects studied here had never before been evaluated in an autochthonous isolate.

Oral and transdermal DL-methylphenidate-ethanol interactions in C57BL/6J mice: potentiation of locomotor activity with oral delivery.

PubMed

Bell, Guinevere H; Griffin, William C; Patrick, Kennerly S

2011-12-01

Many abusers of dl-methylphenidate co-abuse ethanol. The present animal study examined behavioral effects of oral or transdermal DL-methylphenidate in combination with a high, depressive dose of ethanol to model co-abuse. Locomotor activity of C57BL/6J mice was recorded for 3 h following dosing with either oral DL-methylphenidate (7.5 mg/kg) or transdermal DL-methylphenidate (Daytrana®;1/4 of a 12.5 cm(2) patch; mean dose 7.5 mg/kg), with or without oral ethanol (3 g/kg). Brains were enantiospecifically analyzed for the isomers of methylphenidate and the transesterification metabolite ethylphenidate. An otherwise depressive dose of ethanol significantly potentiated oral DL-methylphenidate induced increases in total distance traveled for the first 100 min (p<0.05). Transdermal DL-methylphenidate increased total distance traveled after a latency of 80 min, though this effect was not potentiated by concomitant ethanol. Mean 3 h brain D-methylphenidate concentrations were significantly elevated by ethanol in both the oral (65% increase) and transdermal (88% increase) groups. The corresponding L-ethylphenidate concentrations were 10 ng/g and 130 ng/g. Stimulant induced motor activity in rodents may correlate with abuse liability. Potentiation of DL-methylphenidate motor effects by concomitant ethanol carries implications regarding increased abuse potential of DL-methylphenidate when combined with ethanol. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Pitfalls of Thesaurus Ontologization – the Case of the NCI Thesaurus

PubMed Central

Schulz, Stefan; Schober, Daniel; Tudose, Ilinca; Stenzhorn, Holger

2010-01-01

Thesauri that are “ontologized” into OWL-DL semantics are highly amenable to modeling errors resulting from falsely interpreting existential restrictions. We investigated the OWL-DL representation of the NCI Thesaurus (NCIT) in order to assess the correctness of existential restrictions. A random sample of 354 axioms using the someValuesFrom operator was taken. According to a rating performed by two domain experts, roughly half of these examples, and in consequence more than 76,000 axioms in the OWL-DL version, make incorrect assertions if interpreted according to description logics semantics. These axioms therefore constitute a huge source for unintended models, rendering most logic-based reasoning unreliable. After identifying typical error patterns we discuss some possible improvements. Our recommendation is to either amend the problematic axioms in the OWL-DL formalization or to consider some less strict representational format. PMID:21347074

Properties of biophotons and their theoretical implications.

PubMed

Popp, Fritz-Albert

2003-05-01

The word "biophotons" is used to denote a permanent spontaneous photon emission from all living systems. It displays a few up to some hundred photons/(s x cm2) within the spectral range from at least 260 to 800 nm. It is closely linked to delayed luminescence (DL) of biological tissues which describes the long term and ultra weak reemission of photons after exposure to light illumination. During relaxation DL turns continuously into the steady state biophoton emission, where both, DL and biophoton emission exhibit mode coupling over the entire spectrum and a Poissonian photo count distribution. DL is representing excited states of the biophoton field. The physical properties indicate that biophotons originate from fully coherent and sometimes even squeezed states. The physical analysis provides thermodynamic and quantum optical interpretation, in order to understand the biological impacts of biophotons. Biological phenomena like intracellular and intercellular communication, cell growth and differentiation, interactions among biological systems (like "Gestaltbildung" or swarming), and microbial infections can be understood in terms of biophotons. "Biophotonics", the corresponding field of applications, provide a new powerful tool for assessing the quality of food (like freshness and shelf life), microbial infections, environmental influences and for substantiating medical diagnosis and therapy.

Optimal Repair And Replacement Policy For A System With Multiple Components

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-17

Numerical Demonstration To implement the linear program, we use the Python Programming Language (PSF 2016) with the Pyomo optimization modeling language...opre.1040.0133. Hart, W.E., C. Laird, J. Watson, D.L. Woodruff. 2012. Pyomo–optimization modeling in python , vol. 67. Springer Science & Business...Media. Hart, W.E., J. Watson, D.L. Woodruff. 2011. Pyomo: modeling and solving mathematical programs in python . Mathematical Programming Computation 3(3

Exposure assessment of dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs in pasteurised bovine milk using probabilistic modelling.

PubMed

Adekunte, Adefunke O; Tiwari, Brijesh K; O'Donnell, Colm P

2010-09-01

Quantitative exposure assessment is a useful technique to investigate the risk from contaminants in the food chain. The objective of this study was to develop a probabilistic exposure assessment model for dioxins (PCDD/Fs) and dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs) in pasteurised bovine milk. Mean dioxins and DL-PCBs (non-ortho and mono-ortho PCBs) concentrations (pg WHO-TEQ g(-1)) in bovine milk were estimated as 0.06 ± 0.07 pg WHO-TEQ g(-1) for dioxins and 0.08 ± 0.07 pg WHO-TEQ g(-1) for DL-PCBs using Monte Carlo simulation. The simulated model estimated mean exposure for dioxins was 0.19 ± 0.29 pg WHO-TEQ kg(-1)bw d(-1) and 0.14 ± 0.22 pg WHO-TEQ kg(-1) bw d(-1) and for DL-PCBs was 0.25 ± 0.30 pg WHO-TEQ kg(-1) bw d(-1) and 0.19 ± 0.22 pg WHO-TEQ kg(-1) bw d(-1) for men and women, respectively. This study showed that the mean dioxins and DL-PCBs exposure from consumption of pasteurised bovine milk is below the provisional maximum tolerable monthly intake of 70 pg TEQ kg(-1) bw month(-1) (equivalent of 2.3 pg TEQ kg(-1) bw d(-1)) recommended by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants (JECFA). Results from this study also showed that the estimated dioxins and DL-PCBs concentration in pasteurised bovine milk is comparable to those reported in previous studies. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A survey of tools and resources for the next generation analyst

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hall, David L.; Graham, Jake; Catherman, Emily

2015-05-01

We have previously argued that a combination of trends in information technology (IT) and changing habits of people using IT provide opportunities for the emergence of a new generation of analysts that can perform effective intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) on a "do it yourself" (DIY) or "armchair" approach (see D.L. Hall and J. Llinas (2014)). Key technology advances include: i) new sensing capabilities including the use of micro-scale sensors and ad hoc deployment platforms such as commercial drones, ii) advanced computing capabilities in mobile devices that allow advanced signal and image processing and modeling, iii) intelligent interconnections due to advances in "web N" capabilities, and iv) global interconnectivity and increasing bandwidth. In addition, the changing habits of the digital natives reflect new ways of collecting and reporting information, sharing information, and collaborating in dynamic teams. This paper provides a survey and assessment of tools and resources to support this emerging analysis approach. The tools range from large-scale commercial tools such as IBM i2 Analyst Notebook, Palantir, and GeoSuite to emerging open source tools such as GeoViz and DECIDE from university research centers. The tools include geospatial visualization tools, social network analysis tools and decision aids. A summary of tools is provided along with links to web sites for tool access.

Review on occurrence and behavior of PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs in atmosphere of East Asia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trinh, Minh Man; Chang, Moo Been

2018-05-01

This paper reviews the data from studies mainly published after 2000 to provide the current understanding of the physicochemical properties, atmospheric occurrence, gas/particle partitioning, fate and temporal trends in atmospheric matrix of PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs of East Asia. Ambient PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs concentrations in East Asia are found to be tens to hundreds times higher than that measured in Europe and North America. After strict regulations on PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs emissions are enacted, the concentrations of these compounds decrease dramatically in Eastern Asian countries. In general, most of PCDD/Fs distribute in particle phase while dl-PCBs majorly exist in gas phase. Three main factors including physicochemical properties of the compounds, properties of particle and atmospheric condition affect the gas/particle partitioning of PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs. The accuracy of absorption and adsorption models on predicting gas/particle partitioning of PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs is evaluated. Gas-phase compounds are mostly removed from the atmosphere via reactions with OH radicals while those in particle phase are majorly removed by wet/dry deposition processes. The effects of removing processes and long-range transport on gas/particle partitioning are also discussed.

Postoperative B-Type Natriuretic Peptide as Predictor for Postoperative Outcomes in Patients Implanted With Left Ventricular Assist Devices.

PubMed

Yost, Gardner; Bhat, Geetha; Pappas, Patroklos; Tatooles, Antone

2018-04-18

Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a cardiac neurohormone known to correlate with left ventricular (LV) dilation, decreased contractility, and increased stiffness. Consequently, BNP has been used as a prognostic tool to assess the degree of LV unloading for patients supported by continuous-flow LV assist devices (LVADs). We assessed the prognostic value of changes in BNP in the 2 weeks after LVAD implantation. This retrospective study analyzed laboratory findings and outcomes of 189 LVAD patients. Patients were separated into two groups based on whether serum BNP levels had improved from preoperative levels by postoperative day 14. Group 1 had improvement in BNP levels, whereas group 2 had no improvement or worsening in BNP. There were no significant differences between the groups in age, gender, race, body mass index, or comorbidities. Group 1 had preoperative BNP 1,125 ± 1,078.3 pg/dl and postoperative BNP 440.2 ± 267.7 pg/dl (ΔBNP = -693.09 ± 942.4 pg/dl), whereas group 2 had preoperative BNP 346.0 ± 309.1 pg/dl and postoperative BNP 631.57 ± 483.4 pg/dl (ΔBNP = 289.32 ± 329.7 pg/dl). Postoperative survival in group 2 was significantly worse than in group 1. Rates of right ventricular failure (RVF) were significantly higher in group 2 (group 1: 39%, group 2: 52.7%; p = 0.01). In most patients implanted with a LVAD, BNP improves significantly in the postoperative period as the LV is unloaded. Our results indicate that lack of improvement in postoperative BNP is associated with longer length of stay, increased rates of RVF, and is an independent risk factor for reduced postoperative survival.

Ultrafiltration membrane reactors for enzymatic resolution of amino acids: design model and optimization.

PubMed

Bódalo, A; Gómez, J L.; Gómez, E; Bastida, J; Máximo, M F.; Montiel, M C.

2001-03-08

In this paper the possibility of continuous resolution of DL-phenylalanine, catalyzed by L-aminoacylase in a ultrafiltration membrane reactor (UFMR) is presented. A simple design model, based on previous kinetic studies, has been demonstrated to be capable of describing the behavior of the experimental system. The model has been used to determine the optimal experimental conditions to carry out the asymmetrical hydrolysis of N-acetyl-DL-phenylalanine.

The significance of heterogeneity of evolving scales to transport in porous formations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dagan, Gedeon

1994-12-01

Flow takes place in a heterogeneous formation of spatially variable conductivity, which is modeled as a stationary space random function. To model the variability at the regional scale, the formation is viewed as one of a two-dimensional, horizontal structure. A constant head gradient is applied on the formation boundary such that the flow is uniform in the mean. A plume of inert solute is injected at t = 0 in a volume V0. Under ergodic conditions the plume centroid moves with the constant, mean flow velocity U, and a longitudinal macrodispersion coefficient dL may be defined as half of the time rate of change of the plume second spatial moment with respect to the centroid. For a log-conductivity covariance CY of finite integral scale I, at first order in the variance σY2 and for a travel distance L = Ut ≫ I, dL → σY2UI and transport is coined as Fickian. Ergodicity of the moments is ensured if l ≫ I, where l is the initial plume scale. Some field observations have suggested that heterogeneity may be of evolving scales and that the macrodispersion coefficient may grow with L without reaching a constant limit (anomalous diffusion). To model such a behavior, previous studies have assumed that CY is stationary but of unbounded integral scale with CY ˜ arβ (-1 < β < 0) for large lag r. Under ergodic conditions, it was found that asymptotically dL ˜ aUL1+β, i.e., non-Fickian behavior and anomalous dispersion. The present study claims that an ergodic behavior is not possible for a given finite plume of initial size l, since the basic requirement that l ≫ I cannot be satisfied for CY of unbounded scale. For instance, the centroid does not move any more with U but is random (Figure 1), owing to the large-scale heterogeneity. In such a situation the actual effective dispersion coefficient DL is defined as half the rate of change of the mean second spatial moment with respect to the plume centroid in each realization. This is the accessible entity in a given experiment. We show that in contrast with dL, the behavior of DL is controlled by l and it has the Fickian limit DL ˜ aUl1+β (Figure 3). We also discuss the case in which Y is of stationary increments and is characterized by its variogram γy. Then U and dL can be defined only if γY is truncated (equivalently, an "infrared cutoff" is carried out in the spectrum of Y). However, for a bounded U it is shown that DL depends only on γY. Furthermore, for γY = arβ, DL ˜ aUl2Lβ-1; i.e., dispersion is Fickian for 0 < β < 1, whereas for 1 < β < 2, transport is non-Fickian. Since β < 2, DL cannot grow faster than L = Ut. This is in contrast with a recently proposed model (Neuman, 1990) in which the dispersion coefficient is independent of the plume size and it grows approximately like L1.5.

Differences in metabolic parameters and cardiovascular risk between American Diabetes Association and World Health Organization definition of impaired fasting glucose in European Caucasian subjects: a cross-sectional study

PubMed Central

Filippatos, Theodosios D.; Rizos, Evangelos C.; Gazi, Irene F.; Lagos, Konstantinos; Agouridis, Dimitrios; Mikhailidis, Dimitri P.

2013-01-01

Introduction The American Diabetes Association (ADA) defines impaired fasting glucose (IFG) as fasting plasma glucose concentration of 100–125 mg/dl, whereas the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) define IFG as fasting plasma glucose levels of 110–125 mg/dl. We identified differences in metabolic parameters and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk according to the ADA or WHO/IDF definition of IFG. Material and methods Healthy drug-naive Caucasian (Greek) subjects (n = 396; age 55 ±12 years) participated in this cross-sectional study. Results Diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and uric acid levels were higher in the subjects with glucose 100–109 mg/dl compared with those with glucose < 100 mg/dl (87 ±9 mm Hg vs. 84 ±11 mm Hg, p = 0.004 for DBP, 5.6 ±1.5 mg/dl vs. 5.0 ±1.0 mg/dl, p = 0.002 for uric acid), whereas triglyceride levels were lower in subjects with glucose 100–109 mg/dl compared with those with glucose ≥ 110 mg/dl (169 mg/dl (interquartile range (IQR) = 102–186) vs. 186 mg/dl (IQR = 115–242), p = 0.002). Only the ADA definition recognized subjects with significantly increased 10-year CVD risk estimation (SCORE risk calculation) compared with their respective controls (5.4% (IQR = 0.9–7.3) vs. 4.1% (IQR = 0.7–5.8), p = 0.002). Conclusions The ADA IFG definition recognized more subjects with significantly increased CVD risk (SCORE model) compared with the WHO/IDF definition. PMID:24273558

Methionine as a safe and effective novel biorational mosquito larvicide.

PubMed

Weeks, Emma N I; Baniszewski, Julie; Gezan, Salvador A; Allan, Sandra A; Cuda, James P; Stevens, Bruce R

2018-06-11

Mosquito larvicides provide a source-reduction strategy to diminish adult females that bite and potentially spread pathogens. Demands are mounting for new and innovative effective biorational larvicides, due to the development of resistance to some currently utilized mosquito larvicides, undesirable non-target effects, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) restrictions. Methionine is a human nutrient essential amino acid that unexpectedly has been shown to be a valuable safe pest management tool against select insect pests that possess alkaline gut physiology. The present study evaluated larvicidal toxicity of methionine in several pestiferous mosquito (Diptera: Culicidae) genera. Concentration-dependent DL-methionine kinetics assays of survival and pupation were conducted in larvae of Aedes albopictus Skuse, Anopheles quadrimaculatus Say, and Culex tarsalis Coquillett in glass jars. Higher concentrations of DL-methionine yielded 100% mortality for all test species and prevented pupation at a rate equivalent to Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) treatments. Concentration kinetics indicated that An. quadrimaculatus was 10-fold more sensitive to DL-methionine than Ae. albopictus and Cx. tarsalis. EPA regulations currently exempt methionine in pesticide formulations applied to agricultural crops. This study demonstrates that methionine is a highly effective mosquito larvicide that can provide a beneficial new biorational, environmentally sustainable tool to control pestiferous mosquitoes. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Quantitative Structure – Property Relationship Modeling of Remote Liposome Loading Of Drugs

PubMed Central

Cern, Ahuva; Golbraikh, Alexander; Sedykh, Aleck; Tropsha, Alexander; Barenholz, Yechezkel; Goldblum, Amiram

2012-01-01

Remote loading of liposomes by trans-membrane gradients is used to achieve therapeutically efficacious intra-liposome concentrations of drugs. We have developed Quantitative Structure Property Relationship (QSPR) models of remote liposome loading for a dataset including 60 drugs studied in 366 loading experiments internally or elsewhere. Both experimental conditions and computed chemical descriptors were employed as independent variables to predict the initial drug/lipid ratio (D/L) required to achieve high loading efficiency. Both binary (to distinguish high vs. low initial D/L) and continuous (to predict real D/L values) models were generated using advanced machine learning approaches and five-fold external validation. The external prediction accuracy for binary models was as high as 91–96%; for continuous models the mean coefficient R2 for regression between predicted versus observed values was 0.76–0.79. We conclude that QSPR models can be used to identify candidate drugs expected to have high remote loading capacity while simultaneously optimizing the design of formulation experiments. PMID:22154932

Computer aided design of architecture of degradable tissue engineering scaffolds.

PubMed

Heljak, M K; Kurzydlowski, K J; Swieszkowski, W

2017-11-01

One important factor affecting the process of tissue regeneration is scaffold stiffness loss, which should be properly balanced with the rate of tissue regeneration. The aim of the research reported here was to develop a computer tool for designing the architecture of biodegradable scaffolds fabricated by melt-dissolution deposition systems (e.g. Fused Deposition Modeling) to provide the required scaffold stiffness at each stage of degradation/regeneration. The original idea presented in the paper is that the stiffness of a tissue engineering scaffold can be controlled during degradation by means of a proper selection of the diameter of the constituent fibers and the distances between them. This idea is based on the size-effect on degradation of aliphatic polyesters. The presented computer tool combines a genetic algorithm and a diffusion-reaction model of polymer hydrolytic degradation. In particular, we show how to design the architecture of scaffolds made of poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) with the required Young's modulus change during hydrolytic degradation.

Darrieus-Landau instability of premixed flames enhanced by fuel droplets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nicoli, Colette; Haldenwang, Pierre; Denet, Bruno

2017-07-01

Recent experiments on spray flames propagating in a Wilson cloud chamber have established that spray flames are much more sensitive to wrinkles or corrugations than single-phase flames. To propose certain elements of explanation, we numerically study the Darrieus-Landau (or hydrodynamic) instability (DL-instability) developing in premixtures that contain an array of fuel droplets. Two approaches are compared: numerical simulation starting from the general conservation laws in reactive media, and the numerical computation of Sivashinsky-type model equations for DL-instability. Both approaches provide us with results in deep agreement. It is first shown that the presence of droplets in fuel-air premixtures induces initial perturbations which are large enough to trigger the DL-instability. Second, the droplets are responsible for additional wrinkles when the DL-instability is developed. The latter wrinkles are of length scales shorter than those of the DL-instability, in such a way that the DL-unstable spray flames have a larger front surface and therefore propagate faster than the single-phase ones when subjected to the same instability.

The NAFLD Index: A Simple and Accurate Screening Tool for the Prediction of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.

PubMed

Ichino, Naohiro; Osakabe, Keisuke; Sugimoto, Keiko; Suzuki, Koji; Yamada, Hiroya; Takai, Hiroji; Sugiyama, Hiroko; Yukitake, Jun; Inoue, Takashi; Ohashi, Koji; Hata, Tadayoshi; Hamajima, Nobuyuki; Nishikawa, Toru; Hashimoto, Senju; Kawabe, Naoto; Yoshioka, Kentaro

2015-01-01

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common debilitating condition in many industrialized countries that increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to derive a simple and accurate screening tool for the prediction of NAFLD in the Japanese population. A total of 945 participants, 279 men and 666 women living in Hokkaido, Japan, were enrolled among residents who attended a health check-up program from 2010 to 2014. Participants with an alcohol consumption > 20 g/day and/or a chronic liver disease, such as chronic hepatitis B, chronic hepatitis C or autoimmune hepatitis, were excluded from this study. Clinical and laboratory data were examined to identify predictive markers of NAFLD. A new predictive index for NAFLD, the NAFLD index, was constructed for men and for women. The NAFLD index for men = -15.5693+0.3264 [BMI] +0.0134 [triglycerides (mg/dl)], and for women = -31.4686+0.3683 [BMI] +2.5699 [albumin (g/dl)] +4.6740[ALT/AST] -0.0379 [HDL cholesterol (mg/dl)]. The AUROC of the NAFLD index for men and for women was 0.87(95% CI 0.88-1.60) and 0.90 (95% CI 0.66-1.02), respectively. The cut-off point of -5.28 for men predicted NAFLD with an accuracy of 82.8%. For women, the cut-off point of -7.65 predicted NAFLD with an accuracy of 87.7%. A new index for the non-invasive prediction of NAFLD, the NAFLD index, was constructed using available clinical and laboratory data. This index is a simple screening tool to predict the presence of NAFLD.

Comparison of alternative designs for reducing complex neurons to equivalent cables.

PubMed

Burke, R E

2000-01-01

Reduction of the morphological complexity of actual neurons into accurate, computationally efficient surrogate models is an important problem in computational neuroscience. The present work explores the use of two morphoelectrotonic transformations, somatofugal voltage attenuation (AT cables) and signal propagation delay (DL cables), as bases for construction of electrotonically equivalent cable models of neurons. In theory, the AT and DL cables should provide more accurate lumping of membrane regions that have the same transmembrane potential than the familiar equivalent cables that are based only on somatofugal electrotonic distance (LM cables). In practice, AT and DL cables indeed provided more accurate simulations of the somatic transient responses produced by fully branched neuron models than LM cables. This was the case in the presence of a somatic shunt as well as when membrane resistivity was uniform.

Addition of Epidermal Growth Factor Improves the Rate of Sulfur Mustard Wound Healing in an In Vitro Model

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-03-26

the wound site.1 Inflammation begins within minutes after the injury. Neutrophils clear out contami- nating bacteria and release cytokines to activate...of an in vitro wound healing model for periodontal cells. J Periodontol. 2000;71:226–37. 27. Oates TW, Mumford JH, Carnes DL, Cochran DL...Characterization of proliferation and cellular wound fill in periodontal cells using an in vitro wound model. J Periodontol. 2001;72:324–30. 28. Chuang AH

The Ptch1DL mouse: a new model to study lambdoid craniosynostosis and basal cell nevus syndrome associated skeletal defects

PubMed Central

Feng, Weiguo; Choi, Irene; Clouthier, David E.; Niswander, Lee; Williams, Trevor

2013-01-01

Mouse models provide valuable opportunities for probing the underlying pathology of human birth defects. Employing an ENU-based screen for recessive mutations affecting craniofacial anatomy we isolated a mouse strain, Dogface-like (DL), with abnormal skull and snout morphology. Examination of the skull indicated that these mice developed craniosynostosis of the lambdoid suture. Further analysis revealed skeletal defects related to the pathology of basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS) including defects in development of the limbs, scapula, ribcage, secondary palate, cranial base, and cranial vault. In humans, BCNS is often associated with mutations in the Hedgehog receptor PTCH1 and genetic mapping in DL identified a point mutation at a splice donor site in Ptch1. Using genetic complementation analysis we determined that DL is a hypomorphic allele of Ptch1, leading to increased Hedgehog signaling. Two aberrant transcripts are generated by the mutated Ptch1DL gene, which would be predicted to reduce significantly the levels of functional Patched1 protein. This new Ptch1 allele broadens the mouse genetic reagents available to study the Hedgehog pathway and provides a valuable means to study the underlying skeletal abnormalities in BCNS. In addition, these results strengthen the connection between elevated Hedgehog signaling and craniosynostosis. PMID:23897749

Optimization of Culture Conditions for Enrichment of Saccharomyces cerevisiae with Dl-α-Tocopherol by Response Surface Methodology.

PubMed

Mohajeri Amiri, Morteza; Fazeli, Mohammad Reza; Amini, Mohsen; Hayati Roodbari, Nasim; Samadi, Nasrin

2017-01-01

Designing enriched probiotic supplements may have some advantages including protection of probiotic microorganism from oxidative destruction, improving enzyme activity of the gastrointestinal tract, and probably increasing half-life of micronutrient. In this study Saccharomyces cerevisiae enriched with dl-α-tocopherol was produced as an accumulator and transporter of a lipid soluble vitamin for the first time. By using one variable at the time screening studies, three independent variables were selected. Optimization of the level of dl-α-tocopherol entrapment in S. cerevisiae cells was performed by using Box-Behnken design via design expert software. A modified quadratic polynomial model appropriately fit the data. The convex shape of three-dimensional plots reveal that we could calculate the optimal point of the response in the range of parameters. The optimum points of independent parameters to maximize the response were dl-α-tocopherol initial concentration of 7625.82 µg/mL, sucrose concentration of 6.86 % w/v, and shaking speed of 137.70 rpm. Under these conditions, the maximum level of dl-α-tocopherol in dry cell weight of S. cerevisiae was 5.74 µg/g. The resemblance between the R-squared and adjusted R-squared and acceptable value of C.V% revealed acceptability and accuracy of the model.

Potential challenges facing distributed leadership in health care: evidence from the UK National Health Service.

PubMed

Martin, Graeme; Beech, Nic; MacIntosh, Robert; Bushfield, Stacey

2015-01-01

The discourse of leaderism in health care has been a subject of much academic and practical debate. Recently, distributed leadership (DL) has been adopted as a key strand of policy in the UK National Health Service (NHS). However, there is some confusion over the meaning of DL and uncertainty over its application to clinical and non-clinical staff. This article examines the potential for DL in the NHS by drawing on qualitative data from three co-located health-care organisations that embraced DL as part of their organisational strategy. Recent theorising positions DL as a hybrid model combining focused and dispersed leadership; however, our data raise important challenges for policymakers and senior managers who are implementing such a leadership policy. We show that there are three distinct forms of disconnect and that these pose a significant problem for DL. However, we argue that instead of these disconnects posing a significant problem for the discourse of leaderism, they enable a fantasy of leadership that draws on and supports the discourse. © 2014 The Authors. Sociology of Health & Illness © 2014 Foundation for the Sociology of Health & Illness/John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

The effect of a multidisciplinary care clinic on the outcomes in pediatric chronic kidney disease.

PubMed

Ajarmeh, Salma; Er, Lee; Brin, Genevieve; Djurdjev, Ognjenka; Dionne, Janis M

2012-10-01

Current best evidence-based practice for children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) attempts to achieve good clinical outcomes through careful management of comorbidities and is likely best achieved with a multidisciplinary care (MDC) CKD clinic. In this retrospective study of children with CKD in British Columbia, Canada, we analyzed clinical outcomes in a cohort of 73 CKD patients from 2003 under a standard care model and a second cohort of 125 CKD patients from 2009 under a MDC clinic model. Patient demographics were similar, but there was a decrease in the percentage of patients with CKD stage 3-5 in 2009 (59 vs. 75 %; p = 0.002), although the absolute number increased. After adjustment for severity of CKD, hemoglobin was significantly higher (13.0 g/dl vs. 12.2 g/dl, p < 0.03), calcium was significantly higher (9.6 mg/dl vs. 9.1 mg/dl, p < 0.001), and albumin was significantly higher (4.4 g/dl vs. 3.8 g/dl, p < 0.001) in the 2009 MDC cohort. The rate of disease progression, assessed by annualized estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) slope, improved from -4.0 ml/min/1.73 m(2) in the 2003 cohort to 0.5 ml/min/1.73 m(2) in the 2009 cohort (p < 0.01). Blood pressure control was better in 2009 although not statistically significant. Multidisciplinary care improved the outcomes of children with CKD especially in anemia management, bone mineral metabolism, nutrition, and renal disease progression.

Performance analysis of model based iterative reconstruction with dictionary learning in transportation security CT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haneda, Eri; Luo, Jiajia; Can, Ali; Ramani, Sathish; Fu, Lin; De Man, Bruno

2016-05-01

In this study, we implement and compare model based iterative reconstruction (MBIR) with dictionary learning (DL) over MBIR with pairwise pixel-difference regularization, in the context of transportation security. DL is a technique of sparse signal representation using an over complete dictionary which has provided promising results in image processing applications including denoising,1 as well as medical CT reconstruction.2 It has been previously reported that DL produces promising results in terms of noise reduction and preservation of structural details, especially for low dose and few-view CT acquisitions.2 A distinguishing feature of transportation security CT is that scanned baggage may contain items with a wide range of material densities. While medical CT typically scans soft tissues, blood with and without contrast agents, and bones, luggage typically contains more high density materials (i.e. metals and glass), which can produce severe distortions such as metal streaking artifacts. Important factors of security CT are the emphasis on image quality such as resolution, contrast, noise level, and CT number accuracy for target detection. While MBIR has shown exemplary performance in the trade-off of noise reduction and resolution preservation, we demonstrate that DL may further improve this trade-off. In this study, we used the KSVD-based DL3 combined with the MBIR cost-minimization framework and compared results to Filtered Back Projection (FBP) and MBIR with pairwise pixel-difference regularization. We performed a parameter analysis to show the image quality impact of each parameter. We also investigated few-view CT acquisitions where DL can show an additional advantage relative to pairwise pixel difference regularization.

Graft function assessment in mouse models of single- and dual- kidney transplantation.

PubMed

Wang, Lei; Wang, Ximing; Jiang, Shan; Wei, Jin; Buggs, Jacentha; Fu, Liying; Zhang, Jie; Liu, Ruisheng

2018-05-23

Animal models of kidney transplantation (KTX) are widely used in studying immune response of hosts to implanted grafts. Additionally, KTX can be used in generating kidney-specific knockout animal models by transplantation of kidneys from donors with global knockout of a gene to wild type recipients or vise verse. Dual kidney transplantation (DKT) provides a more physiological environment for recipients than single kidney transplantation (SKT). However, DKT in mice is rare due to technical challenges. In this study, we successfully performed DKT in mice and compared the hemodynamic response and graft function with SKT. The surgical time, complications and survival rate of DKT were not significantly different from SKT, where survival rates were above 85%. Mice with DKT showed less injury and quicker recovery with lower plasma creatinine (Pcr) and higher GFR than SKT mice (Pcr = 0.34 and 0.17 mg/dl in DKT vs. 0.50 and 0.36 mg/dl in SKT at 1 and 3 days, respectively; GFR = 215 and 131 µl/min for DKT and SKT, respectively). In addition, the DKT exhibited better renal functional reserve and long-term outcome of renal graft function than SKT based on the response to acute volume expansion. In conclusion, we have successfully generated a mouse DKT model. The hemodynamic responses of DKT better mimic physiological situations with less kidney injury and better recovery than SKT because of reduced confounding factors such as single nephron hyperfiltration. We anticipate DKT in mice will provide an additional tool for evaluation of renal significance in physiology and disease.

SatelliteDL: a Toolkit for Analysis of Heterogeneous Satellite Datasets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galloy, M. D.; Fillmore, D.

2014-12-01

SatelliteDL is an IDL toolkit for the analysis of satellite Earth observations from a diverse set of platforms and sensors. The core function of the toolkit is the spatial and temporal alignment of satellite swath and geostationary data. The design features an abstraction layer that allows for easy inclusion of new datasets in a modular way. Our overarching objective is to create utilities that automate the mundane aspects of satellite data analysis, are extensible and maintainable, and do not place limitations on the analysis itself. IDL has a powerful suite of statistical and visualization tools that can be used in conjunction with SatelliteDL. Toward this end we have constructed SatelliteDL to include (1) HTML and LaTeX API document generation,(2) a unit test framework,(3) automatic message and error logs,(4) HTML and LaTeX plot and table generation, and(5) several real world examples with bundled datasets available for download. For ease of use, datasets, variables and optional workflows may be specified in a flexible format configuration file. Configuration statements may specify, for example, a region and date range, and the creation of images, plots and statistical summary tables for a long list of variables. SatelliteDL enforces data provenance; all data should be traceable and reproducible. The output NetCDF file metadata holds a complete history of the original datasets and their transformations, and a method exists to reconstruct a configuration file from this information. Release 0.1.0 distributes with ingest methods for GOES, MODIS, VIIRS and CERES radiance data (L1) as well as select 2D atmosphere products (L2) such as aerosol and cloud (MODIS and VIIRS) and radiant flux (CERES). Future releases will provide ingest methods for ocean and land surface products, gridded and time averaged datasets (L3 Daily, Monthly and Yearly), and support for 3D products such as temperature and water vapor profiles. Emphasis will be on NPP Sensor, Environmental and Climate Data Records as they become available. To obtain SatelliteDL, please visit the project website at http://www.txcorp.com/SatelliteDL

Quantifying the activity of adenoviral E1A CR2 deletion mutants using renilla luciferase bioluminescence and 3'-deoxy-3'-[18F]fluorothymidine positron emission tomography imaging.

PubMed

Leyton, Julius; Lockley, Michelle; Aerts, Joeri L; Baird, Sarah K; Aboagye, Eric O; Lemoine, Nicholas R; McNeish, Iain A

2006-09-15

The adenoviral E1A CR2 mutant dl922-947 has potent activity in ovarian cancer. We have used Renilla luciferase bioluminescence imaging to monitor viral E1A expression and replication and [18F]fluorothymidine positron emission tomography ([18F]FLT-PET) to quantify the activity of dl922-947 in vivo. We created dlCR2 Ren, with the same E1A CR2 deletion as dl922-947 and the luciferase gene from Renilla reniformis downstream of E1. Light emitted from s.c. and i.p. IGROV1 ovarian carcinoma xenografts was measured following treatment with dlCR2 Ren. Mice bearing s.c. IGROV1 xenografts were injected with 2.96 to 3.7 MBq of [18F]FLT 48 and 168 hours following i.t. injection of dl922-947 or control virus Ad LM-X. The presence of Renilla luciferase in dlCR2 Ren did not reduce in vitro nor in vivo potency compared with dl922-947. Light emission correlated closely with E1A expression in vitro and peaked 48 hours after dlCR2 Ren injection in both s.c. and i.p. IGROV1 xenografts. It diminished by 168 hours in s.c. tumors but persisted for at least 2 weeks in i.p. models. Normalized tumor [18F]FLT uptake at 60 minutes (NUV60), fractional retention, and area under radioactivity curve all decreased marginally 48 hours after dl922-947 treatment and significantly at 168 hours compared with controls. There was a close linear correlation between NUV60 and both tumor proliferation (Ki67 labeling index) and thymidine kinase 1 expression. Renilla luciferase bioluminescence and [18F]FLT-PET imaging are capable of quantifying the activity and effectiveness of E1A CR2-deleted adenoviral mutants in ovarian cancer.

Quantitative structure-property relationship modeling of remote liposome loading of drugs.

PubMed

Cern, Ahuva; Golbraikh, Alexander; Sedykh, Aleck; Tropsha, Alexander; Barenholz, Yechezkel; Goldblum, Amiram

2012-06-10

Remote loading of liposomes by trans-membrane gradients is used to achieve therapeutically efficacious intra-liposome concentrations of drugs. We have developed Quantitative Structure Property Relationship (QSPR) models of remote liposome loading for a data set including 60 drugs studied in 366 loading experiments internally or elsewhere. Both experimental conditions and computed chemical descriptors were employed as independent variables to predict the initial drug/lipid ratio (D/L) required to achieve high loading efficiency. Both binary (to distinguish high vs. low initial D/L) and continuous (to predict real D/L values) models were generated using advanced machine learning approaches and 5-fold external validation. The external prediction accuracy for binary models was as high as 91-96%; for continuous models the mean coefficient R(2) for regression between predicted versus observed values was 0.76-0.79. We conclude that QSPR models can be used to identify candidate drugs expected to have high remote loading capacity while simultaneously optimizing the design of formulation experiments. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Lipid levels among African and Middle-Eastern Bedouin populations.

PubMed

Dreiher, Jacob; Cohen, Arnon D; Weitzman, Shimon; Sharf, Amir; Shvartzman, Pesach

2008-06-01

Previous studies observed higher high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels and lower triglycerides levels among people of African ancestry. The goal of this study was to characterize lipid levels in Bedouins of African vs. Middle-Eastern ethnicity. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a Bedouin primary care clinic in southern Israel, with 4470 listed individuals over the age of 21, of whom 402 (9%) were of African origin. A stratified random sample was included in the analysis. Associations between ethnicity, age, gender and lipid levels were assessed. Multiple linear regression and logistic regression models were used for multivariate analysis. The study included 261 African Bedouins and 406 Middle-Eastern Bedouins. (median age: 37 years, 58.6% females). The average total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels were 10 mg/dl lower among African Bedouins as compared to Middle-Eastern Bedouins (total cholesterol: 168.6 vs. 179.6 mg/dl, p<0.001; LDL: 99.5 vs. 109.0 mg/dl, respectively, p<0.001). Average triglycerides levels were 36 mg/dl lower among African Bedouins as compared to Middle-Eastern Bedouins (102.8 vs. 138.9 mg/dl, respectively, p<0.001). Average HDL levels were 3 mg/dl higher among African Bedouins as compared to Middle-Eastern Bedouins (48.3 vs. 44.6 mg/dl, respectively, p<0.001). A lower prevalence of dyslipidemia was found in African Bedouins, as compared with Middle-Eastern Bedouins.

Determinants of blood-lead levels in children in Callao and Lima metropolitan area.

PubMed

Espinoza, Rocío; Hernández-Avila, Mauricio; Narciso, Juan; Castañaga, Carmen; Moscoso, Shirley; Ortiz, Georgina; Carbajal, Luz; Wegner, Steve; Noonan, Gary

2003-01-01

To determine blood lead levels in urban populations of children (n = 2,510) and women (n = 874) in the early postpartum in certain districts of Lima and Callao, and to correlate those levels with particular exposures. Between July 1998 and January 1999 cross sectional study was conducted. The study population was selected using three sampling strategies in the government operated school system and from public pediatric and maternity hospitals at Lima and Callao, Peru. Study personnel were trained to collect finger stick blood samples with a protocol that minimizes external lead contamination. Lead determinations in blood and environmental samples were performed at the study site using portable anodic striping voltamenters. To determine the simultaneous effects of different predictors on blood lead levels, multivariate regression models were used to estimate adjusted mean differences. The mean blood lead level in the children studied was 9.9 micrograms/dl ranging from 1 microgram/dl to 64 micrograms/dl with 29% of the children displaying values greater than 10 micrograms/dl and 9.4% at levels greater than 20 micrograms/dl. Among the women, the mean was 3.5 micrograms/dl (SD = 2.4 micrograms/dl), and 2.4% (n = 21) displayed levels greater than 10 micrograms/dl. Important differences were observed between the sample locations, and the highest levels were documented in the port region near Callao. The mean level of blood lead in this group was 25.6 micrograms/dl (SD = 4.6 micrograms/dl), while among the rest of the sample it was 7.1 micrograms/dl (SD = 5.1 micrograms/dl). The presence of a mineral storage area signified a difference in exposure in excess of 13 micrograms/dl for children living near the port area in contrast to the other children who were not as close to such fixed sources of lead exposure. For the participants in Lima, the risk of showing levels above 10 micrograms/dl was associated with exposure to high vehicular traffic. In metropolitan Lima, we conclude that the mean blood lead levels of the populations studied were not alarming and that a positive health impact can be made by a reduction of lead in gasoline. With regard to the port area, the study demonstrates that the presence of mineral storage areas pose a detrimental risk factor for the health of the children living in this area. The English version of this paper is available too at: http://www.insp.mx/salud/index.html.

Anomalous transport in discrete arcs and simulation of double layers in a model auroral circuit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Robert A.

1987-01-01

The evolution and long-time stability of a double layer (DL) in a discrete auroral arc requires that the parallel current in the arc, which may be considered uniform at the source, be diverted within the arc to charge the flanks of the U-shaped double layer potential structure. A simple model is presented in which this current redistribution is effected by anomalous transport based on electrostatic lower hybrid waves driven by the flank structure itself. This process provides the limiting constraint on the double layer potential. The flank charging may be represented as that of a nonlinear transmission line. A simplified model circuit, in which the transmission line is represented by a nonlinear impedance in parallel with a variable resistor, is incorporated in a one-dimensional simulation model to give the current density at the DL boundaries. Results are presented for the scaling of the DL potential as a function of the width of the arc and the saturation efficiency of the lower hybrid instability mechanism.

THE AP-2 CLATHRIN ADAPTOR MEDIATES ENDOCYTOSIS OF AN INHIBITORY KILLER CELL Ig-LIKE RECEPTOR (KIR) IN HUMAN NK CELLS1

PubMed Central

Purdy, Amanda K.; Alvarez-Arias, Diana A.; Oshinsky, Jennifer; James, Ashley M.; Serebriiskii, Ilya; Campbell, Kerry S.

2014-01-01

Stable surface expression of human inhibitory killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) is critical for controlling NK cell function and maintaining NK cell tolerance toward normal MHC-I+ cells. Our recent experiments, however, have found that antibody-bound KIR3DL1 (3DL1) readily leaves the cell surface and undergoes endocytosis to early/recycling endosomes and subsequently to late endosomes. We found that 3DL1 internalization is at least partially mediated by an interaction between the μ2 subunit of the AP-2 clathrin adaptor complex and ITIM tyrosine residues in the cytoplasmic domain of 3DL1. Disruption of the 3DL1/μ2 interaction, either by mutation of the ITIM tyrosines in 3DL1 or mutation of μ2, significantly diminished endocytosis and increased surface expression of 3DL1 in human primary NK cells and cell lines. Furthermore, we found that the 3DL1/AP-2 interaction is diminished upon antibody engagement with the receptor, as compared to untreated cells. Thus, we have identified AP-2-mediated endocytosis as a mechanism regulating the surface levels of inhibitory KIR though their ITIM domains. Based upon our results, we propose a model in which non-engaged KIR are internalized by this mechanism, whereas engagement with MHC-I ligand would diminish AP-2 binding, thereby prolonging stable receptor surface expression and promoting inhibitory function. Furthermore, this ITIM-mediated mechanism may similarly regulate the surface expression of other inhibitory immune receptors. PMID:25238755

Pharmacokinetics of orally administered DL-α-lipoic acid in dogs.

PubMed

Zicker, Steven C; Avila, Albert; Joshi, Dinesh K; Gross, Kathy L

2010-11-01

To determine the pharmacokinetics of DL-α-lipoic acid in dogs when administered at 3 dosages via 3 methods of delivery. 27 clinically normal Beagles. In a 3 × 3 factorial Latin square design, 3 dosages (2.5, 12.5, and 25 mg/kg) of DL-α-lipoic acid were administered orally in a capsule form and provided without a meal, in a capsule form and provided with a meal, and as an ingredient included in an extruded dog food. Food was withheld for 12 hours prior to DL-α-lipoic acid administration. Blood samples were collected before (0 minutes) and at 15, 30, 45, 60, and 120 minutes after administration. Plasma concentrations of DL-α-lipoic acid were determined via high-performance liquid chromatography. A generalized linear models procedure was used to evaluate the effects of method of delivery and dosage. Noncompartmental analysis was used to determine pharmacokinetic parameters of DL-α-lipoic acid. Nonparametric tests were used to detect significant differences between pharmacokinetic parameters among treatment groups. A significant effect of dosage was observed regardless of delivery method. Method of delivery also significantly affected plasma concentrations of DL-α-lipoic acid, with extruded foods resulting in lowest concentration for each dosage administered. Maximum plasma concentration was significantly affected by method of delivery at each dosage administered. Other significant changes in pharmacokinetic parameters were variable and dependent on dosage and method of delivery. Values for pharmacokinetic parameters of orally administered DL-α-lipoic acid may differ significantly when there are changes in dosage, method of administration, and fed status.

Antidiabetic activity of Pongamia pinnata leaf extracts in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

PubMed Central

Sikarwar, Mukesh S.; Patil, M.B.

2010-01-01

The antidiabetic activity of Pongamia pinnata ( Family: Leguminosae) leaf extracts was investigated in alloxan-induced diabetic albino rats. A comparison was made between the action of different extracts of P. pinnata and a known antidiabetic drug glibenclamide (600 μg/kg b. wt.). An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was also performed in experimental diabetic rats. The petroleum ether, chloroform, alcohol and aqueous extracts of P. pinnata were obtained by simple maceration method and were subjected to standardization using pharmacognostical and phytochemical screening methods. Dose selection was made on the basis of acute oral toxicity study (50-5000 mg/kg b. w.) as per OECD guidelines. P. pinnata ethanolic extract (PPEE) and aqueous extract (PPAE) showed significant (P < 0.001) antidiabetic activity. In alloxan-induced model, blood glucose levels of these extracts on 7th day of the study were 155.83 ± 11.211mg/dl (PPEE) and 132.00 ± 4.955mg/dl (PPAE) in comparison of diabetic control (413.50 ± 4.752mg/dl) and chloroform extract (210.83 ± 14.912mg/dl). In glucose loaded rats, PPEE exhibited glucose level of 164.50 ± 6.350mg/dl after 30 min and 156.50 ± 4.089mg/dl after 90 min, whereas the levels in PPAE treated animals were 176 ± 3.724mg/dl after 30 min and 110.33 ± 6.687mg/dl after 90 min. These extracts also prevented body weight loss in diabetic rats. The drug has the potential to act as an antidiabetic drug. PMID:21455444

Amino Acid Enantiomeric Ratios in Biogeochemistry: Complications and Opportunities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McDonald, G. D.; Sun, H. J.; Tsapin, A. I.

2003-12-01

Amino acid enantiomeric ratios have been used for many years as an indicator of the process of racemization, and thus as a method to determine the age of biological samples such as bones, shells, and teeth. Dating biological samples by this method relies on an accurate knowledge of the environmental temperatures the sample has experienced, and the racemization kinetic parameters in the sample matrix. In some environments, where an independent dating method such as radiocarbon is available, the observed amino acid D/L ratios are found to be either higher or lower than those expected due to racemization alone. The observed D/L ratios in these cases can be clues to biogeochemical processes operating in addition to, or in place of, chemical racemization. In Siberian permafrost (Brinton et al. 2002, Astrobiology 2, 77) we have found D/L ratios lower than expected, which we have interpreted as evidence for low-level D-amino acid metabolism and recycling in microorganisms previously thought to be metabolically dormant. In microbially-colonized Antarctic Dry Valley sandstones (McDonald and Sun 2002, Eos Trans. AGU 83, Fall Meet. Suppl., Abstract B11A-0720) we have found D/L ratios higher than can be accounted for by racemization alone, most likely due to the accumulation of D-amino-acid-containing peptidoglycan material from multiple bacterial generations. D/L profiles in polar ices and in ice-covered lakes (Tsapin et al. 2002, Astrobiology 2, 632) can be used to indicate the sources and histories of water or ice samples. Multiple biological and biogeochemical processes may complicate the interpretation of amino acid enantiomeric excesses in both terrestrial and extraterrestrial samples; however, amino acid racemization remains a useful tool in biogeochemistry and astrobiology. With a good knowledge of the environmental history of samples, amino acid D/L profiles can be used as a window into processes such as molecular repair and biomass turnover that are difficult to detect by other means, particularly over geological time scales.

Rain/No-Rain Identification from Bispectral Satellite Information using Deep Neural Networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tao, Y.

2016-12-01

Satellite-based precipitation estimation products have the advantage of high resolution and global coverage. However, they still suffer from insufficient accuracy. To accurately estimate precipitation from satellite data, there are two most important aspects: sufficient precipitation information in the satellite information and proper methodologies to extract such information effectively. This study applies the state-of-the-art machine learning methodologies to bispectral satellite information for Rain/No-Rain detection. Specifically, we use deep neural networks to extract features from infrared and water vapor channels and connect it to precipitation identification. To evaluate the effectiveness of the methodology, we first applies it to the infrared data only (Model DL-IR only), the most commonly used inputs for satellite-based precipitation estimation. Then we incorporates water vapor data (Model DL-IR + WV) to further improve the prediction performance. Radar stage IV dataset is used as ground measurement for parameter calibration. The operational product, Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information Using Artificial Neural Networks Cloud Classification System (PERSIANN-CCS), is used as a reference to compare the performance of both models in both winter and summer seasons.The experiments show significant improvement for both models in precipitation identification. The overall performance gains in the Critical Success Index (CSI) are 21.60% and 43.66% over the verification periods for Model DL-IR only and Model DL-IR+WV model compared to PERSIANN-CCS, respectively. Moreover, specific case studies show that the water vapor channel information and the deep neural networks effectively help recover a large number of missing precipitation pixels under warm clouds while reducing false alarms under cold clouds.

Considering body mass differences, who are the world's strongest women?

PubMed

Vanderburgh, P M; Dooman, C

2000-01-01

Allometric modeling (AM) has been used to determine the world's strongest body mass-adjusted man. Recently, however, AM was shown to demonstrate body mass bias in elite Olympic weightlifting performance. A second order polynomial (2OP) provided a better fit than AM with no body mass bias for men and women. The purpose of this study was to apply both AM and 2OP models to women's world powerlifting records (more a function of pure strength and less power than Olympic lifts) to determine the optimal model approach as well as the strongest body mass-adjusted woman in each event. Subjects were the 36 (9 per event) current women world record holders (as of Nov., 1997) for bench press (BP), deadlift (DL), squat (SQ), and total (TOT) lift (BP + DL + SQ) according to the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF). The 2OP model demonstrated the superior fit and no body mass bias as indicated by the coefficient of variation and residuals scatterplot inspection, respectively, for DL, SQ, and TOT. The AM for these three lifts, however, showed favorable bias toward the middle weight classes. The 2OP and AM yielded an essentially identical fit for BP. Although body mass-adjusted world records were dependent on the model used, Carrie Boudreau (U.S., 56-kg weight class), who received top scores in TOT and DL with both models, is arguably the world's strongest woman overall. Furthermore, although the 2OP model provides a better fit than AM for this elite population, a case can still be made for AM use, particularly in light of theoretical superiority.

The Effect of a Bio-Behavioral Intervention on the Release of Cytokines

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-04-04

Mechelle USU Project Number: N09-C07 References Cited 1. Tusek DL. Guided imagery: a powerful tool to decrease length of stay, pain...Cystectomy 4 ( 5.9 %) 6 Davinci 7 (10.3 %) Note: Missing data for 1 subject 17 Principal Investigator: Burge, Donna

Development of high-power dye laser chain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Konagai, Chikara; Kimura, Hironobu; Fukasawa, Teruichiro; Seki, Eiji; Abe, Motohisa; Mori, Hideo

2000-01-01

Copper vapor laser (CVL) pumped dye laser (DL) system, both in a master oscillator power amplifier (MOPA) configuration, has been developed for Atomic Vapor Isotope Separation program in Japan. Dye laser output power of about 500 W has been proved in long-term operations over 200 hours. High power fiber optic delivery system is utilized in order to efficiently transport kilowatt level CVL beams to the DL MOPA. Single model CVL pumped DL oscillator has been developed and worked for 200 hours within +/- 0.1 pm wavelength stability. Phase modulator for spreading spectrum to the linewidth of hyperfine structure has been developed and demonstrated.

Lead exposure and early child neurodevelopment among children 12-24 months in Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo.

PubMed

Kashala-Abotnes, Espérance; Mumbere, Pépé Penghele; Mishika, Jeannette Mukanya; Ndjukendi, Ally Omba; Mpaka, Davin Beya; Bumoko, Makila-Mabe Guy; Kayembe, Tharcisse Kalula; Tshala-Katumbay, Désiré; Kazadi, Théodore Kayembe; Okitundu, Daniel Luwa E-Andjafono

2016-12-01

Childhood lead exposure remains a problem in developing countries, and little is known about its effects on early child neurodevelopment and temperament in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). We, therefore, conducted this study to determine the association between lead exposure and the neurodevelopment and behaviour of children aged 12-24 months in Kinshasa, DRC. A cross-sectional study was conducted between February and June 2012, and parents of 104 children were invited to participate. Blood lead levels (BLLs) of each child were tested using the flame atomic spectrophotometry method. All children were subject to a clinical examination and assessed with two selected early child neurodevelopmental tools, the Gensini-Gavito and the baby characteristics questionnaire, to measure their neurodevelopment and temperament. Detectable BLLs ranged from 1 to 30 μg/dl with a geometric mean of 6.9 (SD 4.8) μg/dl. BLLs at 5-9 and ≥10 μg/dl were significantly associated with the child temperament (p <0.05). Perinatal and maternal factors did not seem to affect early child neurodevelopment and temperament. Children exposed to lead were reported with more temperament difficulties at even blood lead levels <10 μg/dl, suggesting the need for preventive and intervention measures to reduce lead exposure among children in Kinshasa, DRC.

Follow-up of intracranial aneurysms treated by a WEB flow disrupter: a comparative study of DSA and contrast-enhanced MR angiography.

PubMed

Mine, Benjamin; Tancredi, Illario; Aljishi, Ali; Alghamdi, Faisal; Beltran, Margarita; Herchuelz, Maxime; Lubicz, Boris

2016-06-01

To compare contrast-enhanced MR angiography (CE-MRA) and DSA for the follow-up of intracranial aneurysms (IAs) treated with the Woven EndoBridge embolization system DL (WEB DL; Sequent Medical, Aliso Viejo, California, USA). We retrospectively identified all patients treated with a WEB DL between November 2010 and February 2013 in 2 hospitals. The IA occlusion was graded on follow-up CE-MRA and DSA by 4 independent readers and by 2 readers reaching a consensus, respectively. Interobserver agreement for MRA and intertechnique agreement was evaluated by calculating linear weighted κ. Fifteen patients with 16 IAs were included. Mean delay between MRA and DSA was 2 months (range 0-16 months). Interobserver agreement for MRA was substantial to almost perfect (κ=0.686-0.921; mean κ=0.809). Intertechnique agreement was moderate to substantial (κ=0.579-0.724; mean κ=0.669). Only three out of five inadequately occluded IAs were detected by MRA. CE-MRA is a useful tool for the follow-up of IAs treated with a WEB DL. However, early follow-up with DSA remains mandatory to detect inadequately occluded IAs. 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 influence of maternal dietary exposure to dioxins and PCBs during pregnancy on ADHD symptoms and cognitive functions in Norwegian preschool children.

PubMed

Caspersen, Ida Henriette; Aase, Heidi; Biele, Guido; Brantsæter, Anne Lise; Haugen, Margaretha; Kvalem, Helen Engelstad; Skogan, Annette Holth; Zeiner, Pål; Alexander, Jan; Meltzer, Helle Margrete; Knutsen, Helle K

2016-09-01

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/dibenzofurans (dioxins) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants (POPs) with potentially adverse impact on child neurodevelopment. Whether the potential detrimental effects of dioxins and PCBs on neurodevelopment are of specific or unspecific character is not clear. The purpose of the current study was to examine the influence of maternal dietary exposure to dioxins and PCBs on ADHD symptoms and cognitive functioning in preschoolers. We aimed to investigate a range of functions, in particular IQ, expressive language, and executive functions. This study includes n=1024 children enrolled in a longitudinal prospective study of ADHD (the ADHD Study), with participants recruited from The Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study (MoBa). Boys and girls aged 3.5years participated in extensive clinical assessments using well-validated tools; The Preschool Age Psychiatric Assessment interview (PAPA), Stanford-Binet 5th revision (SB-5), Child Development Inventory (CDI), and Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function, Preschool version (BRIEF-P). Maternal dietary exposure to dioxins and PCBs was estimated based on a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) answered mid-pregnancy and a database of dioxin and PCB concentrations in Norwegian foods. Exposure to dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs (dl-compounds) was expressed in total toxic equivalents (TEQ), and PCB-153 was used as marker for non-dioxin-like PCBs (ndl-PCBs). Generalized linear and additive models adjusted for confounders were used to examine exposure-outcome associations. Exposure to PCB-153 or dl-compound was not significantly associated with any of the outcome measures when analyses were performed for boys and girls together. After stratifying by sex, adjusted analyses indicated a small inverse association with language in girls. An increase in the exposure variables of 1 SD was associated with a reduction in language score of -0.2 [CI -0.4, -0.1] for PCB-153 and -0.2 [CI -0.5, -0.1] for dl-compounds in girls. For boys, exposure to PCB-153 or dl-compounds was not associated with language skills. The difference between sex-specific associations was not statistically significant (p-value=0.13). No sex-specific effects were observed for ADHD-symptoms, IQ scores, or executive functions. We found no indications that variation in current low-level exposure to PCB-153 or dl-compounds in Norway is associated with variation ADHD-symptoms, verbal/non-verbal IQ, or executive functions including working memory in preschoolers. However, our findings indicated that maternal dietary exposure to PCB-153 or dl-compounds during pregnancy was significantly associated with poorer expressive language skills in preschool girls, although the sex-specific associations were not significantly different. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Diagnostic laparoscopy should be performed before definitive resection for pancreatic cancer: a financial argument.

PubMed

Jayakrishnan, Thejus T; Nadeem, Hasan; Groeschl, Ryan T; George, Ben; Thomas, James P; Ritch, Paul S; Christians, Kathleen K; Tsai, Susan; Evans, Douglas B; Pappas, Sam G; Gamblin, T Clark; Turaga, Kiran K

2015-02-01

Laparoscopy is recommended to detect radiographically occult metastases in patients with pancreatic cancer before curative resection. This study was conducted to test the hypothesis that diagnostic laparoscopy (DL) is cost-effective in patients undergoing curative resection with or without neoadjuvant therapy (NAT). Decision tree modelling compared routine DL with exploratory laparotomy (ExLap) at the time of curative resection in resectable cancer treated with surgery first, (SF) and borderline resectable cancer treated with NAT. Costs (US$) from the payer's perspective, quality-adjusted life months (QALMs) and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were calculated. Base case estimates and multi-way sensitivity analyses were performed. Willingness to pay (WtP) was US$4166/QALM (or US$50,000/quality-adjusted life year). Base case costs were US$34,921 for ExLap and US$33,442 for DL in SF patients, and US$39,633 for ExLap and US$39,713 for DL in NAT patients. Routine DL is the dominant (preferred) strategy in both treatment types: it allows for cost reductions of US$10,695/QALM in SF and US$4158/QALM in NAT patients. The present analysis supports the cost-effectiveness of routine DL before curative resection in pancreatic cancer patients treated with either SF or NAT. © 2014 International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association.

Stability of maxillary position after Le Fort I osteotomy using self-reinforced biodegradable poly-70L/30DL-lactide miniplates and screws.

PubMed

Kim, Bong Chul; Padwa, Bonnie L; Park, Hyung-Sik; Jung, Young-Soo

2011-05-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the stability of Le Fort I osteotomy using self-reinforced biodegradable poly-70L/30DL-lactide miniplates and screws. Nineteen patients who had Le Fort I osteotomy and internal fixation using self-reinforced biodegradable poly-70L/30DL-lactide miniplates and screws were evaluated both radiographically and clinically. Changes in maxillary position after operation were documented 1 week, 1, 3, 6 mo, and/or 1-yr postoperatively with lateral cephalometric tracings. Complications of the self-reinforced biodegradable poly-70L/30DL-lactide miniplates and screws were evaluated by follow-up roentgenograms and clinical observation. A mixed model analysis for repeated measures was used for statistical analysis. Maxillary position was stable after operation with no change between time points (P > .05). There were no complications with the self-reinforced biodegradable poly-70L/30DL-lactide miniplates and screws. Internal fixation of the maxilla after Le Fort I osteotomy with self-reinforced biodegradable poly-70L/30DL-lactide miniplates and screws is a reliable method for maintaining the postoperative maxillary position after Le Fort I osteotomy. Copyright © 2011 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Towards a Semantically-Enabled Control Strategy for Building Simulations: Integration of Semantic Technologies and Model Predictive Control

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

Delgoshaei, Parastoo; Austin, Mark A.; Pertzborn, Amanda J.

State-of-the-art building simulation control methods incorporate physical constraints into their mathematical models, but omit implicit constraints associated with policies of operation and dependency relationships among rules representing those constraints. To overcome these shortcomings, there is a recent trend in enabling the control strategies with inference-based rule checking capabilities. One solution is to exploit semantic web technologies in building simulation control. Such approaches provide the tools for semantic modeling of domains, and the ability to deduce new information based on the models through use of Description Logic (DL). In a step toward enabling this capability, this paper presents a cross-disciplinary data-drivenmore » control strategy for building energy management simulation that integrates semantic modeling and formal rule checking mechanisms into a Model Predictive Control (MPC) formulation. The results show that MPC provides superior levels of performance when initial conditions and inputs are derived from inference-based rules.« less

Effect of double layers on magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lysak, Robert L.; Hudson, Mary K.

1987-01-01

The dynamic aspects of auroral current structures are reviewed with emphasis on consequences for models of microscopic turbulence (MT). A number of models of MT are introduced into a large-scale model of Alfven wave propagation to determine the effect of various models on the overall structure of auroral currents. The effect of a double layer (DL) electric field which scales with the plasma temperature and the Debye length is compared with the effect of anomalous resistivity due to electrostatic ion cyclotron turbulence in which the electric field scales with the magnetic field strength. It is shown that the DL model is less diffusive than the resistive model, indicating the possibility of narrow intense current structures.

Impact of radiation therapy on the oncolytic adenovirus dl520: implications on the treatment of glioblastoma.

PubMed

Bieler, Alexa; Mantwill, Klaus; Holzmüller, Regina; Jürchott, Karsten; Kaszubiak, Alexander; Stärk, Sybille; Glockzin, Gabriel; Lage, Hermann; Grosu, Anca-Ligia; Gansbacher, Bernd; Holm, Per Sonne

2008-03-01

Viral oncolytic therapy is emerging as a new form of anticancer therapy and has shown promising preclinical results, especially in combination with radio- and chemotherapy. We recently reported that nuclear localization of the human transcription factor YB-1 in multidrug-resistant cells facilitates E1-independent adenoviral replication. The aim of this study was to evaluate the combined treatment of the conditionally-replicating adenovirus dl520 and radiotherapy in glioma cell lines in vitro and in human tumor xenografts. Furthermore, the dependency of YB-1 on dl520 replication was verified by shRNA directed down regulation of YB-1. Localization of YB-1 was determined by immunostaining. Glioma cell lines LN-18, U373 and U87 were infected with dl520. Induction of cytopathic effect (CPE), viral replication, viral yield and viral release were determined after viral infection, radiation therapy and the combination of both treatment modalities. The capacity of treatments alone or combined to induce tumor growth inhibition of subcutaneous U373 tumors was tested also in nude mice. Quantitative real-time PCR demonstrated that the shRNA-mediated down regulation of YB-1 is leading to a dramatic decrease in adenoviral replication of dl520. Immunostaining analysis showed that the YB-1 protein was predominantly located in the cytoplasm in the perinuclear space and less abundant in the nucleus. After irradiation we found an increase of nuclear YB-1. The addition of radiotherapy increased the oncolytic effect of dl520 with enhanced viral replication, viral yield and viral release. The oncolytic activity of dl520 plus radiation inhibited the growth of subcutaneous U373 tumors in a xenograft mouse model. Radiation mediated increase of nuclear YB-1 in glioma cells enhanced the oncolytic potential of adenovirus dl520.

Activities of dl-α-Difluoromethylarginine and Polyamine Analogues against Cryptosporidium parvum Infection in a T-Cell Receptor Alpha-Deficient Mouse Model▿

PubMed Central

Yarlett, Nigel; Waters, W. Ray; Harp, James A.; Wannemuehler, Michael J.; Morada, Mary; Bellcastro, Josephine; Upton, Steve J.; Marton, Laurence J.; Frydman, Benjamin J.

2007-01-01

The in vivo effectiveness of a series of conformationally restricted polyamine analogues alone and selected members in combination with dl-α-difluoromethylarginine against Cryptosporidium parvum infection in a T-cell receptor alpha-deficient mouse model was tested. Polyamine analogues were selected from the extended bis(ethyl)-sym-homospermidine or bis(ethyl)-spermine backbone having cis or trans double bonds at the center of the molecule. The cis isomers were found to have significantly greater efficacy in both preventing and curing infection in a mouse model than the trans polyamine analogues when tested in a T-cell receptor alpha-deficient mouse model. When tested in combination with dl-α-difluoromethylarginine, the cis-restricted analogues were found to be more effective in preventing oocyst shedding. This study demonstrates the potential of polyamine analogues as anticryptosporidial agents and highlights the presence of multiple points in polyamine synthesis by this parasite that are susceptible to inhibition resulting in growth inhibition. PMID:17242149

STOCK: Structure mapper and online coarse-graining kit for molecular simulations

DOE PAGES

Bevc, Staš; Junghans, Christoph; Praprotnik, Matej

2015-03-15

We present a web toolkit STructure mapper and Online Coarse-graining Kit for setting up coarse-grained molecular simulations. The kit consists of two tools: structure mapping and Boltzmann inversion tools. The aim of the first tool is to define a molecular mapping from high, e.g. all-atom, to low, i.e. coarse-grained, resolution. Using a graphical user interface it generates input files, which are compatible with standard coarse-graining packages, e.g. VOTCA and DL_CGMAP. Our second tool generates effective potentials for coarse-grained simulations preserving the structural properties, e.g. radial distribution functions, of the underlying higher resolution model. The required distribution functions can be providedmore » by any simulation package. Simulations are performed on a local machine and only the distributions are uploaded to the server. The applicability of the toolkit is validated by mapping atomistic pentane and polyalanine molecules to a coarse-grained representation. Effective potentials are derived for systems of TIP3P (transferable intermolecular potential 3 point) water molecules and salt solution. The presented coarse-graining web toolkit is available at http://stock.cmm.ki.si.« less

Portable visible and near-infrared spectrophotometer for triglyceride measurements.

PubMed

Kobayashi, Takanori; Kato, Yukiko Hakariya; Tsukamoto, Megumi; Ikuta, Kazuyoshi; Sakudo, Akikazu

2009-01-01

An affordable and portable machine is required for the practical use of visible and near-infrared (Vis-NIR) spectroscopy. A portable fruit tester comprising a Vis-NIR spectrophotometer was modified for use in the transmittance mode and employed to quantify triglyceride levels in serum in combination with a chemometric analysis. Transmittance spectra collected in the 600- to 1100-nm region were subjected to a partial least-squares regression analysis and leave-out cross-validation to develop a chemometrics model for predicting triglyceride concentrations in serum. The model yielded a coefficient of determination in cross-validation (R2VAL) of 0.7831 with a standard error of cross-validation (SECV) of 43.68 mg/dl. The detection limit of the model was 148.79 mg/dl. Furthermore, masked samples predicted by the model yielded a coefficient of determination in prediction (R2PRED) of 0.6856 with a standard error of prediction (SEP) and detection limit of 61.54 and 159.38 mg/dl, respectively. The portable Vis-NIR spectrophotometer may prove convenient for the measurement of triglyceride concentrations in serum, although before practical use there remain obstacles, which are discussed.

Antitumor effect of culinary-medicinal oyster mushroom, Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq.: Fr.) P. Kumm., derived protein fraction on tumor-bearing mice models.

PubMed

Maiti, Swatilekha; Mallick, Sanjaya Kumar; Bhutia, Sujit Kumar; Behera, Birendra; Mandal, Mohitosh; Maiti, Tapas K

2011-01-01

Previously, we reported the in vitro anticancer and immunomodulatory effect of a protein fraction designated as Cibacron blue affinity purified protein (CBAEP) obtained from the culinary-medicinal oyster mushroom, Pleurotus ostreatus. In the present study, we investigated the in vivo antitumor potential of CBAEP in different tumor-bearing mice models and studied the detailed mechanism of tumor regression in Dalton lymphoma (DL)-bearing mice. The lethal dose (LD50) of CBAEP was found to be 55 mg/kg body weight and sublethal doses (5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg body weight) showed a prolonged tumor survival time in DL, Sarcoma-180, and B16F0 melanoma tumor-bearing mice. Further, CBAEP reduced about 35.68 and 51.43% DL cell growth in 5 and 10 mg/kg body weight, respectively. The in vivo CBAEP treatment showed an apoptotic feature as demonstrated in morphological study and sub-G0/G1 population in cell cycle and Western blot of DL cells. CBAEP also activated immunosuppression condition in DL tumor-bearing host. It also stimulated immune cells in the presence of nonspecific immunostunulator (LPS and ConA) ex vivo as well as enhanced Th1 response with production of TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-2. Moreover, it activated tumor-associated macrophages and NK cells. The present findings revealed the potent antitumor property of CBAEP, which might help in developing a new anticancer drug.

Lister vaccine strain of vaccinia virus armed with the endostatin-angiostatin fusion gene: an oncolytic virus superior to dl1520 (ONYX-015) for human head and neck cancer.

PubMed

Tysome, James R; Wang, Pengju; Alusi, Ghassan; Briat, Arnaud; Gangeswaran, Rathi; Wang, Jiwei; Bhakta, Vipul; Fodor, Istvan; Lemoine, Nick R; Wang, Yaohe

2011-09-01

Oncolytic viral therapy represents a promising strategy for the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), with dl1520 (ONYX-015) the most widely used oncolytic adenovirus in clinical trials. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the Lister vaccine strain of vaccinia virus as well as a vaccinia virus armed with the endostatin-angiostatin fusion gene (VVhEA) as a novel therapy for HNSCC and to compare them with dl1520. The potency and replication of the Lister strain and VVhEA and the expression and function of the fusion protein were determined in human HNSCC cells in vitro and in vivo. Finally, the efficacy of VVhEA was compared with dl1520 in vivo in a human HNSCC model. The Lister vaccine strain of vaccinia virus was more effective than the adenovirus against all HNSCC cell lines tested in vitro. Although the potency of VVhEA was attenuated in vitro, the expression and function of the endostatin-angiostatin fusion protein was confirmed in HNSCC models both in vitro and in vivo. This novel vaccinia virus (VVhEA) demonstrated superior antitumor potency in vivo compared with both dl1520 and the control vaccinia virus. This study suggests that the Lister strain vaccinia virus armed with an endostatin-angiostatin fusion gene may be a potential therapeutic agent for HNSCC.

A Computational Model of Major Depression: the Role of Glutamate Dysfunction on Cingulo-Frontal Network Dynamics

PubMed Central

Ramirez-Mahaluf, Juan P.; Roxin, Alexander; Mayberg, Helen S.; Compte, Albert

2017-01-01

Abstract Major depression disease (MDD) is associated with the dysfunction of multinode brain networks. However, converging evidence implicates the reciprocal interaction between midline limbic regions (typified by the ventral anterior cingulate cortex, vACC) and the dorso-lateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC), reflecting interactions between emotions and cognition. Furthermore, growing evidence suggests a role for abnormal glutamate metabolism in the vACC, while serotonergic treatments (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, SSRI) effective for many patients implicate the serotonin system. Currently, no mechanistic framework describes how network dynamics, glutamate, and serotonin interact to explain MDD symptoms and treatments. Here, we built a biophysical computational model of 2 areas (vACC and dlPFC) that can switch between emotional and cognitive processing. MDD networks were simulated by slowing glutamate decay in vACC and demonstrated sustained vACC activation. This hyperactivity was not suppressed by concurrent dlPFC activation and interfered with expected dlPFC responses to cognitive signals, mimicking cognitive dysfunction seen in MDD. Simulation of clinical treatments (SSRI or deep brain stimulation) counteracted this aberrant vACC activity. Theta and beta/gamma oscillations correlated with network function, representing markers of switch-like operation in the network. The model shows how glutamate dysregulation can cause aberrant brain dynamics, respond to treatments, and be reflected in EEG rhythms as biomarkers of MDD. PMID:26514163

Triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry: A real alternative to high resolution magnetic sector instrument for the analysis of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, furans and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls.

PubMed

García-Bermejo, Ángel; Ábalos, Manuela; Sauló, Jordi; Abad, Esteban; González, María José; Gómara, Belén

2015-08-19

This paper reports on the optimisation, characterisation, validation and applicability of gas chromatography coupled to triple quadrupole mass spectrometry in its tandem operation mode (GC-QqQ(MS/MS) for the quantification of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans (PCDD/Fs, dioxins) and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (DL-PCBs) in environmental and food matrices. MS/MS parameters were selected to achieve the high sensitivity and selectivity required for the analysis of this type of compounds and samples. Good repeatability for areas (RSD = 1-10%, for PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs) and for ion transition ratios (RSD = 0.3-10%, for PCDD/Fs, and 0.2-15%, for DL-PCBs) and low instrumental limits of detection, 0.07-0.75 pg μL(-1) (for dioxins) and 0.05-0.63 pg μL(-1) (for DL-PCBs), were obtained. A comparative study of the congener specific determination using both GC-QqQ(MS/MS) and gas chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (GC-HRMS) was also performed by analysing several fortified samples and certified reference materials (CRMs) with low (feed and foodstuffs), median (sewage sludge) and high (fly ash) toxic equivalency (TEQ) concentration levels, i.e. 0.60, 1.83, 72.9 and 3609 pg WHO-TEQ(PCDD/Fs) g(-1). The agreement between the results obtained for the total TEQs (dioxins) on GC-QqQ(MS/MS) and GC-HRMS in all the investigated samples were within the range of ±4%, and that of DL-PCBs at concentration levels of 0.84 pg WHO-TEQs (DL-PCBs) g(-1), in the case of feedstuffs, was 0.11%. Both instrumental methods have similar and comparable linearity, precision and accuracy. The GC-QqQ(MS/MS) sensitivity, lower than that of GC-HRMS, is good enough (iLODs in the down to low pg levels) to detect the normal concentrations of these compounds in food and environmental samples. These results make GC-QqQ(MS/MS) suitable for the quantitative analysis of dioxins and DL-PCBs and a real alternative tool to the reference sector HRMS instruments. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Exercise decreases the risk of metabolic syndrome in elderly females.

PubMed

Kemmler, Wolfgang; Von Stengel, Simon; Engelke, Klaus; Kalender, Willi A

2009-02-01

To determine the effect of exercise based on a multiple purpose, high-intensity philosophy on parameters of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in older females with the MetS. Thirty-two women (68.7 +/- 3.4 yr) with the MetS according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) took part in the exercise training (EG), and 33 females (69.5 +/- 4.3 yr) also with MetS served as control group (CG). Beside the diagnostic tools of the MetS (waist circumference, triglycerides, HDL-C, blood pressure, and glucose), corresponding anthropometric parameters, total cholesterol, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were determined. After 12 months of exercise, significant effects were observed for total body fat [EG: -1287 g vs CG: +484 g; P = 0.001; confidence interval (CI) = -2787 to -744 g], trunk fat (-1070 vs -203 g; P = 0.005; CI = -1460 to -274 g), hip circumference (-2.1 vs +1.0 cm; P = 0.001; CI = -4.8 to -1.3 cm), triglycerides: (-24.1 vs -0.3 mg dL(-1); P = 0.021; CI = -43.9 to -3.7 mg dL(-1)), total cholesterol: (-19.8 vs +0.2 mg dL(-1); P = 0.008; CI = -34.6 to -5.5 mg dL(-1)), and HDL-C: (+3.8 vs -0.2 mg dL(-1); P = 0.036; CI = 0.3 to 7.6 mg dL(-1)). Waist circumference slightly decreased in both groups (EG: -0.7% vs CG: -0.6%; P = 0.94). Resting systolic (-7.1 vs -6.4 mm Hg; P = 0.84) and diastolic (-8.0 vs -+9.8 mm Hg; P = 0.39) blood pressure significantly decreased in both groups. Changes of glucose and hsCRP did not significantly vary between groups (glucose: +0.7 vs +1.0 mg dL(-1), P = 0.88; hsCRP: -0.68 vs -0.50 mg L(-1), P = 0.36). The number of criteria of the MetS significantly decreased in the EG (4.13-3.66) and slightly decreased in the CG (4.12-3.97); however, significant time group interactions were not observed (P = 0.15; CI = -0.74 to 0.12). Our multipurpose exercise program significantly affects most parameters of the MetS in elderly women.

Excellent amino acid racemization results from Holocene sand dollars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kosnik, M.; Kaufman, D. S.; Kowalewski, M.; Whitacre, K.

2015-12-01

Amino acid racemization (AAR) is widely used as a cost-effective method to date molluscs in time-averaging and taphonomic studies, but it has not been attempted for echinoderms despite their paleobiological importance. Here we demonstrate the feasibility of AAR geochronology in Holocene aged Peronella peronii (Echinodermata: Echinoidea) collected from Sydney Harbour (Australia). Using standard HPLC methods we determined the extent of AAR in 74 Peronella tests and performed replicate analyses on 18 tests. We sampled multiple areas of two individuals and identified the outer edge as a good sampling location. Multiple replicate analyses from the outer edge of 18 tests spanning the observed range of D/Ls yielded median coefficients of variation < 4% for Asp, Phe, Ala, and Glu D/L values, which overlaps with the analytical precision. Correlations between D/L values across 155 HPLC injections sampled from 74 individuals are also very high (pearson r2 > 0.95) for these four amino acids. The ages of 11 individuals spanning the observed range of D/L values were determined using 14C analyses, and Bayesian model averaging was used to determine the best AAR age model. The averaged age model was mainly composed of time-dependent reaction kinetics models (TDK, 71%) based on phenylalanine (Phe, 94%). Modelled ages ranged from 14 to 5539 yrs, and the median 95% confidence interval for the 74 analysed individuals is ±28% of the modelled age. In comparison, the median 95% confidence interval for the 11 calibrated 14C ages was ±9% of the median age estimate. Overall Peronella yields exceptionally high-quality AAR D/L values and appears to be an excellent substrate for AAR geochronology. This work opens the way for time-averaging and taphonomic studies of echinoderms similar to those in molluscs.

Diagnostic laparoscopy should be performed before definitive resection for pancreatic cancer: a financial argument

PubMed Central

Jayakrishnan, Thejus T; Nadeem, Hasan; Groeschl, Ryan T; George, Ben; Thomas, James P; Ritch, Paul S; Christians, Kathleen K; Tsai, Susan; Evans, Douglas B; Pappas, Sam G; Gamblin, T Clark; Turaga, Kiran K

2015-01-01

Objectives Laparoscopy is recommended to detect radiographically occult metastases in patients with pancreatic cancer before curative resection. This study was conducted to test the hypothesis that diagnostic laparoscopy (DL) is cost-effective in patients undergoing curative resection with or without neoadjuvant therapy (NAT). Methods Decision tree modelling compared routine DL with exploratory laparotomy (ExLap) at the time of curative resection in resectable cancer treated with surgery first, (SF) and borderline resectable cancer treated with NAT. Costs (US$) from the payer's perspective, quality-adjusted life months (QALMs) and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were calculated. Base case estimates and multi-way sensitivity analyses were performed. Willingness to pay (WtP) was US$4166/QALM (or US$50 000/quality-adjusted life year). Results Base case costs were US$34 921 for ExLap and US$33 442 for DL in SF patients, and US$39 633 for ExLap and US$39 713 for DL in NAT patients. Routine DL is the dominant (preferred) strategy in both treatment types: it allows for cost reductions of US$10 695/QALM in SF and US$4158/QALM in NAT patients. Conclusions The present analysis supports the cost-effectiveness of routine DL before curative resection in pancreatic cancer patients treated with either SF or NAT. PMID:25123702

Ethylphenidate as a selective dopaminergic agonist and methylphenidate-ethanol transesterification biomarker

PubMed Central

Patrick, Kennerly S.; Corbin, Timothy R.; Murphy, Cristina E.

2014-01-01

We review the pharmaceutical science of ethylphenidate (EPH) in the contexts of drug discovery; drug interactions; biomarker for dl-methylphenidate (MPH)-ethanol exposure; potentiation of dl-MPH abuse liability; contemporary “designer drug”; pertinence to the newer transdermal and chiral switch MPH formulations; as well as problematic internal standard. d-EPH selectively targets the dopamine transporter while d-MPH exhibits equipotent actions at dopamine and norepinephrine transporters. This selectivity carries implications for the advancement of tailored attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) pharmacotherapy in the era of genome-based diagnostics. Abuse of dl-MPH often involves ethanol co-abuse. Carboxylesterase 1 enantioselectively transesterifies l-MPH with ethanol to yield l-EPH accompanied by significantly increased early exposure to d-MPH and rapid potentiation of euphoria. The pharmacokinetic component of this drug interaction can largely be avoided using dexmethylphenidate (dexMPH). This notwithstanding, maximal potentiated euphoria occurs following dexMPH-ethanol. C57BL/6 mice model dl-MPH-ethanol interactions: An otherwise depressive dose of ethanol synergistically increases dl-MPH stimulation; A sub-stimulatory dose of dl-MPH potentiates a low, stimulatory dose of ethanol; Ethanol elevates blood, brain and urinary d-MPH concentrations while forming l-EPH. Integration of EPH preclinical neuropharmacology with clinical studies of MPH-ethanol interactions provides a translational approach toward advancement of ADHD personalized medicine and management of comorbid alcohol use disorder. PMID:25303048

Ethylphenidate as a selective dopaminergic agonist and methylphenidate-ethanol transesterification biomarker.

PubMed

Patrick, Kennerly S; Corbin, Timothy R; Murphy, Cristina E

2014-12-01

We review the pharmaceutical science of ethylphenidate (EPH) in the contexts of drug discovery, drug interactions, biomarker for dl-methylphenidate (MPH)-ethanol exposure, potentiation of dl-MPH abuse liability, contemporary "designer drug," pertinence to the newer transdermal and chiral switch MPH formulations, as well as problematic internal standard. d-EPH selectively targets the dopamine transporter, whereas d-MPH exhibits equipotent actions at dopamine and norepinephrine transporters. This selectivity carries implications for the advancement of tailored attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) pharmacotherapy in the era of genome-based diagnostics. Abuse of dl-MPH often involves ethanol coabuse. Carboxylesterase 1 enantioselectively transesterifies l-MPH with ethanol to yield l-EPH accompanied by significantly increased early exposure to d-MPH and rapid potentiation of euphoria. The pharmacokinetic component of this drug interaction can largely be avoided using dexmethylphenidate (dexMPH). This notwithstanding, maximal potentiated euphoria occurs following dexMPH-ethanol. C57BL/6 mice model dl-MPH-ethanol interactions: an otherwise depressive dose of ethanol synergistically increases dl-MPH stimulation; a substimulatory dose of dl-MPH potentiates a low, stimulatory dose of ethanol; ethanol elevates blood, brain, and urinary d-MPH concentrations while forming l-EPH. Integration of EPH preclinical neuropharmacology with clinical studies of MPH-ethanol interactions provides a translational approach toward advancement of ADHD personalized medicine and management of comorbid alcohol use disorder. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.

A sensitive, rapid, and simple DR-EcoScreen bioassay for the determination of PCDD/Fs and dioxin-like PCBs in environmental and food samples.

PubMed

Kojima, Hiroyuki; Takeuchi, Shinji; Iida, Mitsuru; Nakayama, Shoji F; Shiozaki, Takuya

2018-03-01

In developing countries in Asia, such as China, Vietnam, and Thailand, there is a strong need for the development of relatively rapid and low-cost bioassays for the determination of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (DL-PCBs) in environmental and food samples. These compounds are known to induce a variety of toxic and biological effects through their ligand-specific binding of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Indeed, several AhR-mediated reporter gene assays are widely used as prescreening tools for high-resolution gas chromatography/high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRGC-HRMS) analysis, which individually measures 17 PCDD/Fs and 12 DL-PCBs. In 2008, we have developed a new sensitive and rapid reporter gene assay using a genetically engineered stable cell line, designated DR-EcoScreen cells. The DR-EcoScreen assay using these cells has a number of great advantages of its sensitivity to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin and its simple procedure, which shows little variance in the data (within CV 10 %) compared to other reporter gene assays. In this review, we summarize the application of the DR-EcoScreen assay to the determination of PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs in ambient air samples, in fish and shellfish samples, and in flue gas samples from incinerators and provide potential usefulness of this bioassay for the determination of PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs in various matrices.

Modeling the Wake as a Continuous Vortex Sheet in a Potential-Flow Solution Using Vortex Panels

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-12-01

Continuous Vortex Sheet ........ 30 0 Redistributing the Vorticity Over anlIncreasing Area ............... 31 System of Linear Equations inG-Primes...i)* 9 ~=- r(x) L~~3 (29) 4v ji -i13 where dl is a differential length along the filament dl = dx 1 ( 30 ) when expressed in the local coordinate frame...which 30 models the wing serves as a pattern for this effort, but modifications must be made since the wake is continually growing and distorting. In

Floc size distributions of suspended kaolinite in an advection transport dominated tank: measurements and modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Xiaoteng; Maa, Jerome P.-Y.

2017-11-01

In estuaries and coastal waters, floc size and its statistical distributions of cohesive sediments are of primary importance, due to their effects on the settling velocity and thus deposition rates of cohesive aggregates. The development of a robust flocculation model that includes the predictions of floc size distributions (FSDs), however, is still in a research stage. In this study, a one-dimensional longitudinal (1-DL) flocculation model along a streamtube is developed. This model is based on solving the population balance equation to find the FSDs by using the quadrature method of moments. To validate this model, a laboratory experiment is carried out to produce an advection transport-dominant environment in a cylindrical tank. The flow field is generated by a marine pump mounted at the bottom center, with its outlet facing upward. This setup generates an axially symmetric flow which is measured by an acoustic Doppler velocimeter (ADV). The measurement results provide the hydrodynamic input data required for this 1-DL model. The other measurement results, the FSDs, are acquired by using an automatic underwater camera system and the resulting images are analyzed to validate the predicted FSDs. This study shows that the FSDs as well as their representative sizes can be efficiently and reasonably simulated by this 1-DL model.

Comparison of immunogenicity and protective efficacy of genital herpes vaccine candidates herpes simplex virus 2 dl5-29 and dl5-29-41L in mice and guinea pigs.

PubMed

Hoshino, Yo; Pesnicak, Lesley; Dowdell, Kennichi C; Lacayo, Juan; Dudek, Timothy; Knipe, David M; Straus, Stephen E; Cohen, Jeffrey I

2008-07-29

A replication-defective herpes simplex virus (HSV)-2 vaccine, dl5-29, which is deleted for two essential early genes, UL5 and UL29, is highly immunogenic and protective in mice and guinea pigs. In a prior study, a derivative of HSV-2 dl5-29 termed dl5-29-41L, which has an additional deletion in UL41 (that encodes the virion-host shut-off protein), was more immunogenic and protective against challenge with wild-type HSV-2 in mice when compared with dl5-29. To determine if deletion of UL41 improves the efficacy of dl5-29 in protecting guinea pigs from HSV-2, animals were immunized with dl5-29, dl5-29-41L, or PBS. The geometric mean neutralizing antibody titers from the dl5-29 and dl5-29-41L recipients were comparable (10(1.97) and 10(2.19), respectively, p=0.15). After intravaginal challenge with wild-type HSV-2, the dl5-29-41L and dl5-29 recipients shed similar titers of HSV-2 from the vagina. Mean acute disease severity scores, numbers of recurrences during 3 months after infection, and latent viral loads in sacral ganglia were similar for dl5-29 and dl5-29-41L (all p values >0.05). dl5-29 and dl5-29-41L completely protected mice from lethal challenge with HSV-2 and induced virus-specific CD8(+) T cells in the spleens of the animals. Thus, dl5-29 was as immunogenic and protective as dl5-29-41L under these conditions. dl5-29 was at least 250,000-fold less virulent than parental virus by intracranial inoculation in healthy mice, and caused no disease in SCID mice. Both dl5-29-41L and dl5-29 are equally effective and immunogenic in guinea pigs, and dl5-29 is very safe in immunocompromised animals.

Poly(dl)lactic acid/polyglycolic acid/iron and poly(dl)lactic acid/polyglycolic acid/samarium cobalt composites for use as a delivery mechanism for magnetically directed chondrogenesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oppermann, Dean Alan

Magnetically directed chondrogenesis (MDC) is a fundamental approach to articular cartilage repair. In MDC a magnet is implanted into the subchondral trabecular bone underlying a cartilage defect and used to attract chondrocytes, magnetically tagged with Fe nanoparticles, to the defect site. Pilot studies by Halpern, Crimp and Grande, using solid neodymium (Nd) magnets, indicated optimistic results by producing a hyaline-like articular cartilage after 8 weeks implantation. Since solid Nd magnets introduce long-term biocompatibility issues, the focus of this dissertation was to develop P(dl)A/PGA/Fe and P(dl)A/PGA/SmCo 5 implants for use in MDC. The effect of implant porosity, implant composition and magnetic material (Fe or SmCo5) on the initial and degraded magnetic properties were evaluated. The biocompatibility of P(dl)A/PGA/Fe implants were investigated by implantation into New Zealand white rabbits for 8 weeks. The effect of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and ethylene oxide (EO) sterilization techniques on the molecular weight and chemical structure of P(dl)A/PGA polymers were evaluated using gel permeation chromatography and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The effect of implant morphology, size and number on the von Mises stress in the trabecular bone surrounding the implant was evaluated using a finite element model. In general, SmCo5 implants resulted in higher magnetic fields initially and after 8 weeks of degradation than comparable Fe implants. Increases in magnetic field strength were achieved by increasing the volume fraction of magnetic material and by increasing the PGA concentration. The magnetic field strength degradation rate decreased with increases in volume fraction of magnetic material and increases in PLA concentration. Implantation studies indicated that 50/50 P(dl)A/PGA were more bioactive than 75/25 P(dl)A/PGA with an increased cellular response that is specific to bone growth. The compressive strength and elastic modulus of porous implants were comparable to trabecular bone, and the compressive strength and elastic modulus of solid implants was higher than trabecular bone but less than cortical bone. Finite element modeling showed that the implantation of solid and porous P(dl)A/PGA/Fe implants did not significantly increase the von Mises stress concentration adjacent to the implant. The von Mises stress surrounding porous implants was higher than the solid implants which predicts faster bone remodeling. Comparing single implants to multiple implants indicated a significant decrease in von Mises stress between the implants. This would predict bone resorption in that area. H2O2 sterilization resulted in a gradual decrease in the molecular weight of P(dl)A/PGA polymers that was a result of hydrolytic scission of the ester bonds present between the individual monomers. The polymers were less affected by EO sterilization with only the 75/25 P(dl)A/PGA, indicating a decrease in molecular weight. From these results, it was concluded that solid 50/50 P(dl)A/PGA/SmCo 5 implants that span the entire width of the cartilage defect should be used to optimize the attraction potential and bioactivity of the implant. Also ethylene oxide, which caused less premature implant degradation, should be used for sterilization.

Interictal and Postictal Performances on Dichotic Listening Test in Children with Focal Epilepsy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carlsson, G.; Wiegand, G.; Stephani, U.

2011-01-01

Dichotic listening test (DL) is an important tool to disclose speech dominance in healthy subjects and in clinical cases. The aim of this study was to probe if focal epilepsy in children reveals a corresponding suppression of the ear reports contralateral to seizure onset site. Thus, 15 children and adolescents with clinically and…

AVIATION COMPETITION: Regional Jet Service Yet to Reach Many Small Communities

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-02-01

1997), AA (2000), NW (2000) Colorado Springs CO DL (1997), CO (1999), HP (1999) Columbia SC DL (1997), CO (1998), UA (1999), US (1999) Corpus...DL (1999) Small cities Bangor ME DL (1999) Bozeman MT DL (1997), UA (2000) Butte MT DL (1997) Casper WY DL (1997) Durango CO HP (1999) Grand Forks ND

Dose-Escalated Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy Is Feasible and May Improve Locoregional Control and Laryngeal Preservation in Laryngo-Hypopharyngeal Cancers

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

Miah, Aisha B.; Bhide, Shreerang A.; Guerrero-Urbano, M. Teresa

2012-02-01

Purpose: To determine the safety and outcomes of induction chemotherapy followed by dose-escalated intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) with concomitant chemotherapy in locally advanced squamous cell cancer of the larynx and hypopharynx (LA-SCCL/H). Methods and Materials: A sequential cohort Phase I/II trial design was used to evaluate moderate acceleration and dose escalation. Patients with LA-SCCL/H received IMRT at two dose levels (DL): DL1, 63 Gy/28 fractions (Fx) to planning target volume 1 (PTV1) and 51.8 Gy/28 Fx to PTV2; DL2, 67.2 Gy/28 Fx and 56 Gy/28 Fx to PTV1 and PTV2, respectively. Patients received induction cisplatin/5-fluorouracil and concomitant cisplatin. Acute and latemore » toxicities and tumor control rates were recorded. Results: Between September 2002 and January 2008, 60 patients (29 DL1, 31 DL2) with Stage III (41% DL1, 52% DL2) and Stage IV (52% DL1, 48% DL2) disease were recruited. Median (range) follow-up for DL1 was 51.2 (12.1-77.3) months and for DL2 was 36.2 (4.2-63.3) months. Acute Grade 3 (G3) dysphagia was higher in DL2 (87% DL2 vs. 59% DL1), but other toxicities were equivalent. One patient in DL1 required dilatation of a pharyngeal stricture (G3 dysphagia). In DL2, 2 patients developed benign pharyngeal strictures at 1 year. One underwent a laryngo-pharyngectomy and the other a dilatation. No other G3/G4 toxicities were reported. Overall complete response was 79% (DL1) and 84% (DL2). Two-year locoregional progression-free survival rates were 64.2% (95% confidence interval, 43.5-78.9%) in DL1 and 78.4% (58.1-89.7%) in DL2. Two-year laryngeal preservation rates were 88.7% (68.5-96.3%) in DL1 and 96.4% (77.7-99.5%) in DL2. Conclusions: At a mean follow-up of 36 months, dose-escalated chemotherapy-IMRT at DL2 has so far been safe to deliver. In this study, DL2 delivered high rates of locoregional control, progression-free survival, and organ preservation and has been selected as the experimental arm in a Cancer Research UK Phase III study.« less

HIV neuropathy in pre-HAART patients and it's correlation with risk factors in Central India.

PubMed

Dubey, Tribhuvan Nath; Raghuvanshi, Somnath Singh; Sharma, Himanshu; Saxena, Rita

2013-01-01

Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is the most common neurological complication of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and often goes unrecognized. This ailment has a significant debilitating impact on the quality of life of HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients. HIV-associated sensory neuropathy (HIV-SN) is the most common PN in HIV infected patients. In India, although HIV has emerged as a public health menace, the burden of HIV-SN has not yet been well-defined. We used the Brief Peripheral Neuropathy Screening (BPNS) tool, validated by the AIDS Clinical Trial Group (ACTG) and carried out a cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence of HIV-SN and its associated factors among highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) naive HIV patients. HIV-SN is defined as the presence of neuropathic symptoms and at least an abnormal perception of vibrations of a 128 Hz tuning fork on the great toe or abnormal ankle reflexes or both. Out of 75 patients studied, 40% had clinical HIV-SN and nerve conduction study (NCS) confirmed its presence in all of them. In patients with neuropathy, the mean hemoglobin was 10.76 g/dl (P < 0.0001), mean serum albumin 2.7 g/dl (P < 0.001), mean body mass index (BMI) 17.18 kg/m 2 (P < 0.0001), and mean CD4 T-cell count was 497/μl; whereas, in patients not having neuropathy the same values were 12.81 g/dl, 3.64 g/dl, 20.22 kg/m 2 , and 678/μl, respectively. Patients recall and clinical chart review showed that, 40% had symptoms even prior to HAART initiation. HIV-SN is more common among pre-HAART patients with low level of hemoglobin, serum albumin, BMI, and CD4 T-cell count. Hence, it is found that neuropathy can be prevented by improving immune as well as nutritional status of HIV infected patients. So, BPNS, being a simple diagnostic tool should therefore be routinely applied to screen the neuropathy, to minimize the negative impact it has on the quality of life in patients with HIV infection.

Evaluation of a Silicone Membrane as an Alternative to Human Skin for Determining Skin Permeation Parameters of Chemical Compounds.

PubMed

Uchida, Takashi; Yakumaru, Masafumi; Nishioka, Keisuke; Higashi, Yoshihiro; Sano, Tomohiko; Todo, Hiroaki; Sugibayashi, Kenji

2016-01-01

We evaluated the effectiveness of a silicone membrane as an alternative to human skin using the skin permeation parameters of chemical compounds. An in vitro permeation study using 15 model compounds was conducted, and permeation parameters comprising permeability coefficient (P), diffusion parameter (DL(-2)), and partition parameter (KL) were calculated from each permeation profile. Significant correlations were obtained in log P, log DL(-2), and log KL values between the silicone membrane and human skin. DL(-2) values of model compounds, except flurbiprofen, in the silicone membrane were independent of the lipophilicity of the model compounds and were 100-fold higher than those in human skin. For antipyrine and caffeine, which are hydrophilic, KL values in the silicone membrane were 100-fold lower than those in human skin, and P values, calculated as the product of a DL(-2) and KL, were similar. For lipophilic compounds, such as n-butyl paraben and flurbiprofen, KL values for silicone were similar to or 10-fold higher than those in human skin, and P values for silicone were 100-fold higher than those in human skin. Furthermore, for amphiphilic compounds with log Ko/w values from 0.5 to 3.5, KL values in the silicone membrane were 10-fold lower than those in human skin, and P values for silicone were 10-fold higher than those in human skin. The silicone membrane was useful as a human skin alternative in an in vitro skin permeation study. However, depending on the lipophilicity of the model compounds, some parameters may be over- or underestimated.

Transcutaneous bilirubin levels in newborns <35 weeks' gestation.

PubMed

Maisels, M J; Coffey, M P; Kring, E

2015-09-01

In infants <35 weeks' gestation, we sought to define the transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) levels at which a total serum bilirubin (TSB) level suggesting the need for phototherapy is unlikely to occur and a TSB measurement can, therefore, be avoided. Nursing staff performed 896 TcB measurements within 1 h of a TSB on 225 neonates 26 0/7-34 6/7 weeks' postmenstrual age (PMA). Generalized linear models were fit with generalized estimating equations (GEEs) to model the probability of having a TSB level at or above the phototherapy initiation cutpoint as a function of the TcB; these methods allow for multiple tests per infant. The mean difference between TcB and TSB measurements was <1 mg dl(-1) for each PMA category. When the TcB was at least 3 mg dl(-1) below the TSB cutpoint for phototherapy, there was a ⩾98% probability that the TSB was not at, or above, the recommended phototherapy level. The single exception to this was a phototherapy level of 6 mg dl(-1) for infants of 28 0/7-29 6/7 weeks' PMA, where a TcB of 4 mg dl(-1) below the phototherapy level (ie a TcB ⩽2 mg dl(-1)) was necessary to achieve ⩾98% probability. Our data support the use of routine TcB screening for infants 28-34 6/7 weeks' gestation. TcB screening in the neonatal intensive care unit can identify infants who require a TSB to confirm or exclude the need for phototherapy.

Genomic instability related to zinc deficiency and excess in an in vitro model: is the upper estimate of the physiological requirements recommended for children safe?

PubMed

Padula, Gisel; Ponzinibbio, María Virginia; Gambaro, Rocío Celeste; Seoane, Analía Isabel

2017-08-01

Micronutrients are important for the prevention of degenerative diseases due to their role in maintaining genomic stability. Therefore, there is international concern about the need to redefine the optimal mineral and vitamin requirements to prevent DNA damage. We analyzed the cytostatic, cytotoxic, and genotoxic effect of in vitro zinc supplementation to determine the effects of zinc deficiency and excess and whether the upper estimate of the physiological requirement recommended for children is safe. To achieve zinc deficiency, DMEM/Ham's F12 medium (HF12) was chelated (HF12Q). Lymphocytes were isolated from healthy female donors (age range, 5-10 yr) and cultured for 7 d as follows: negative control (HF12, 60 μg/dl ZnSO 4 ); deficient (HF12Q, 12 μg/dl ZnSO 4 ); lower level (HF12Q + 80 μg/dl ZnSO 4 ); average level (HF12Q + 180 μg/dl ZnSO 4 ); upper limit (HF12Q + 280 μg/dl ZnSO 4 ); and excess (HF12Q + 380 μg/dl ZnSO 4 ). The comet (quantitative analysis) and cytokinesis-block micronucleus cytome assays were used. Differences were evaluated with Kruskal-Wallis and ANOVA (p < 0.05). Olive tail moment, tail length, micronuclei frequency, and apoptotic and necrotic percentages were significantly higher in the deficient, upper limit, and excess cultures compared with the negative control, lower, and average limit ones. In vitro zinc supplementation at the lower and average limit (80 and 180 μg/dl ZnSO 4 ) of the physiological requirement recommended for children proved to be the most beneficial in avoiding genomic instability, whereas the deficient, upper limit, and excess (12, 280, and 380 μg/dl) cultures increased DNA and chromosomal damage and apoptotic and necrotic frequencies.

Concurrence of Serum Creatinine and Albumin with Lower Risk for Death in Twice-Weekly Hemodialysis Patients

PubMed Central

Wang, Jialin; Streja, Elani; Soohoo, Melissa; Chen, Joline L.T.; Rhee, Connie M.; Kim, Taehee; Molnar, Miklos Z.; Kovesdy, Csaba P.; Mehrotra, Rajnish; Kalantar-Zadeh, Kamyar

2016-01-01

Objective Markers of better nutritional status including both higher levels of serum albumin (as a measure of visceral proteins) and creatinine (as a measure of the muscle mass) are associated with lower mortality in conventional (thrice-weekly) hemodialysis patients. However, data for these associations in twice-weekly hemodialysis patients, in whom less frequent hemodialysis may confound nutritional predictors, are lacking. Design, Settings and Subjects We identified 1,113 twice-weekly and matched 4,448 thrice-weekly hemodialysis patients from a large national dialysis cohort of incident hemodialysis patients over 5 years (2007-2011). Mortality risk, adjusted for potential confounders, was examined across two-by-two combinations of serum creatinine (<6 mg/dl vs. ≥6 mg/dl) and albumin (<3.5 g/dl vs. ≥3.5 g/dl) for each treatment frequency yielding a total of eight groups. Results Patients were 70±14 years old and included 48% women, and 55% diabetics. Using the thrice-weekly hemodialysis patients with creatinine≥6mg/dl and albumin≥3.5g/dl as reference, patients with creatinine<6mg/dl and albumin<3.5g/dl had a 1.8-fold higher risk of mortality (HR: 1.75, 95%CI: 1.33-2.30) in twice-weekly and 2.2-fold increased risk of mortality (HR: 2.21, 95%CI: 1.81-2.70) in thrice-weekly hemodialysis patients, respectively in fully adjusted models adjusted for demographics, comorbidities and markers of malnutrition and inflammation. A test for interaction showed there was no significant difference in albumin creatinine mortality associations between twice-weekly and thrice-weekly hemodialysis patients (p-for-interaction 0.7667). Conclusions Surrogate markers of higher visceral protein and muscle mass combined may confer greatest survival in both twice-weekly and thrice-weekly hemodialysis patients. PMID:27528412

Genetic Interaction of OsMADS3, DROOPING LEAF, and OsMADS13 in Specifying Rice Floral Organ Identities and Meristem Determinacy1[W][OA

PubMed Central

Li, Haifeng; Liang, Wanqi; Yin, Changsong; Zhu, Lu; Zhang, Dabing

2011-01-01

Grass plants develop unique floral patterns that determine grain production. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the specification of floral organ identities and meristem determinacy, including the interaction among floral homeotic genes, remains largely unknown in grasses. Here, we report the interactions of rice (Oryza sativa) floral homeotic genes, OsMADS3 (a C-class gene), OsMADS13 (a D-class gene), and DROOPING LEAF (DL), in specifying floral organ identities and floral meristem determinacy. The interaction among these genes was revealed through the analysis of double mutants. osmads13-3 osmads3-4 displayed a loss of floral meristem determinacy and generated abundant carpelloid structures containing severe defective ovules in the flower center, which were not detectable in the single mutant. In addition, in situ hybridization and yeast two-hybrid analyses revealed that OsMADS13 and OsMADS3 did not regulate each other’s transcription or interact at the protein level. This indicates that OsMADS3 plays a synergistic role with OsMADS13 in both ovule development and floral meristem termination. Strikingly, osmads3-4 dl-sup6 displayed a severe loss of floral meristem determinacy and produced supernumerary whorls of lodicule-like organs at the forth whorl, suggesting that OsMADS3 and DL synergistically terminate the floral meristem. Furthermore, the defects of osmads13-3 dl-sup6 flowers appeared identical to those of dl-sup6, and the OsMADS13 expression was undetectable in dl-sup6 flowers. These observations suggest that DL and OsMADS13 may function in the same pathway specifying the identity of carpel/ovule and floral meristem. Collectively, we propose a model to illustrate the role of OsMADS3, DL, and OsMADS13 in the specification of flower organ identity and meristem determinacy in rice. PMID:21444646

Aerobic Exercise and Lipids and Lipoproteins in Women: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

PubMed Central

Kelley, George A.; Kelley, Kristi S.; Tran, Zung VU

2007-01-01

Background Cardiovascular disease (CVD) in women is the leading cause of mortality in the United States, and less than optimal lipid and lipoprotein levels are major risk factors for CVD. The purpose of this study was to use the meta-analytic approach to examine the effects of aerobic exercise on lipids and lipoproteins in women. Methods Studies were retrieved via computerized literature searches, review of reference lists, hand searching selected journals, and expert review of our reference list. The inclusion of studies was limited to randomized controlled trials published in the English language literature between January 1955 and January 2003 in which aerobic exercise was used as the primary intervention in adult women aged ≥18 years. One or more of the following lipids and lipoproteins were assessed: total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglycerides (TG). Results Using a random effects model, statistically significant improvements were observed for all lipids and lipoproteins (TC, X̄ ± SEM, −4.3 ± 1.3 mg/dl, 95% CI −6.9 to −1.7 mg/dl; HDL-C, X̄± SEM, 1.8 ± 0.9 mg/dl, 95% CI 0.1 to 3.5 mg/dl; LDL-C, X̄ ± SEM, −4.4 ± 1.1 mg/dl, 95% CI −6.5 to −2.2 mg/dl; TG, X̄ ± SEM, −4.2 ± 2.1 mg/dl, 95% CI −8.4 to −0.1 mg/dl). Reductions of approximately 2%, 3%, and 5%, respectively, were observed for TC, LDL-C, and TG, whereas an increase of 3% was observed for HDL-C. Conclusions Aerobic exercise is efficacious for increasing HDL-C and decreasing TC, LDL-C, and TG in women. PMID:15650348

New aspects of the pathogenesis of canine distemper leukoencephalitis.

PubMed

Lempp, Charlotte; Spitzbarth, Ingo; Puff, Christina; Cana, Armend; Kegler, Kristel; Techangamsuwan, Somporn; Baumgärtner, Wolfgang; Seehusen, Frauke

2014-07-02

Canine distemper virus (CDV) is a member of the genus morbillivirus, which is known to cause a variety of disorders in dogs including demyelinating leukoencephalitis (CDV-DL). In recent years, substantial progress in understanding the pathogenetic mechanisms of CDV-DL has been made. In vivo and in vitro investigations provided new insights into its pathogenesis with special emphasis on axon-myelin-glia interaction, potential endogenous mechanisms of regeneration, and astroglial plasticity. CDV-DL is characterized by lesions with a variable degree of demyelination and mononuclear inflammation accompanied by a dysregulated orchestration of cytokines as well as matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors. Despite decades of research, several new aspects of the neuropathogenesis of CDV-DL have been described only recently. Early axonal damage seems to represent an initial and progressive lesion in CDV-DL, which interestingly precedes demyelination. Axonopathy may, thus, function as a potential trigger for subsequent disturbed axon-myelin-glia interactions. In particular, the detection of early axonal damage suggests that demyelination is at least in part a secondary event in CDV-DL, thus challenging the dogma of CDV as a purely primary demyelinating disease. Another unexpected finding refers to the appearance of p75 neurotrophin (NTR)-positive bipolar cells during CDV-DL. As p75NTR is a prototype marker for immature Schwann cells, this finding suggests that Schwann cell remyelination might represent a so far underestimated endogenous mechanism of regeneration, though this hypothesis still remains to be proven. Although it is well known that astrocytes represent the major target of CDV infection in CDV-DL, the detection of infected vimentin-positive astrocytes in chronic lesions indicates a crucial role of this cell population in nervous distemper. While glial fibrillary acidic protein represents the characteristic intermediate filament of mature astrocytes, expression of vimentin is generally restricted to immature or reactive astrocytes. Thus, vimentin-positive astrocytes might constitute an important cell population for CDV persistence and spread, as well as lesion progression. In vitro models, such as dissociated glial cell cultures, as well as organotypic brain slice cultures have contributed to a better insight into mechanisms of infection and certain morphological and molecular aspects of CDV-DL. Summarized, recent in vivo and in vitro studies revealed remarkable new aspects of nervous distemper. These new perceptions substantially improved our understanding of the pathogenesis of CDV-DL and might represent new starting points to develop novel treatment strategies.

Crystal structures of resorcin[4]arene and pyrogallol[4]arene complexes with DL-pipecolinic acid. Model compounds for the recognition of the pipecolinyl ring, a key fragment of FK506, through C-H⋯π interaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fujisawa, Ikuhide; Kitamura, Yuji; Kato, Ryo; Murayama, Kazutaka; Aoki, Katsuyuki

2014-01-01

Resorcin[4]arene (resorcinol cyclic tetramer, abbreviated as RCT) or pyrogallol[4]arene (pyrogallol cyclic tetramer, PCT) form host-guest 1:1 complexes with DL-pipecolinic acid (DL-pipeH), RCT·DL-pipeH·EtOH·8H2O (1), PCT DL-pipeH·EtOH·4H2O (2), and PCT·DL-pipeH·3H2O (3), whose crystal structures have been determined. In each complex, the pipeH ligand is incorporated into the bowl-shaped cavity of the RCT or PCT host molecules through C-H⋯π interactions between alkyl protons of the piperidine ring of pipeH and π-rings of RCT or PCT, forming an [(RCT/PCT)·pipeH] structural fragment. In 1 and 3, two [(RCT/PCT) pipeH] fragments self-associate across an inversion center to form a guest-mediated, obliquely declined dimeric structure [(RCT/PCT)·L-pipeH·D-pipeH (RCT/PCT)]. In 2, each PCT-capped pipeH ligand bridges to two adjacent PCT molecules to form guest-mediated, optically-discrete helical polymers [PCT·L-pipeH]n or [PCT·D-pipeH]n. An 1H NMR experiment shows that the complexation through C-H⋯π interaction between the piperidine ring of pipeH and π-rings of RCT or PCT occurs also in solution, with the binding constants of 9.7 ± 0.6 M-1 for RCT and 26.5 ± 1.5 M-1 for PCT. These complexes provide a synthetic model for the recognition of the pipecolinyl-ring moiety, a key constituent of immunosuppressant drugs such as FK506, FK520 or rapamycin, by their binding proteins through C-H⋯π interaction.

The influence of the side-chain sequence on the structure-activity correlations of immunomodulatory branched polypeptides. Synthesis and conformational analysis of new model polypeptides.

PubMed

Mezö, G; Hudecz, F; Kajtár, J; Szókán, G; Szekerke, M

1989-10-01

New branched polypeptides were synthesized for a detailed study of the influence of the side-chain structure on the conformation and biological properties. The first subset of polypeptides were prepared by coupling of tetrapeptides to poly[L-Lys]. These polymers contain either DL-Ala3-X [poly[Lys-(X-DL-Ala3)n

Association of anaemia in primary care patients with chronic kidney disease: cross sectional study of quality improvement in chronic kidney disease (QICKD) trial data

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Anaemia is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease and treating anaemia in chronic kidney disease (CKD) may improve outcomes. However, little is known about the scope to improve primary care management of anaemia in CKD. Methods An observational study (N = 1,099,292) with a nationally representative sample using anonymised routine primary care data from 127 Quality Improvement in CKD trial practices (ISRCTN5631023731). We explored variables associated with anaemia in CKD: eGFR, haemoglobin (Hb), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), iron status, cardiovascular comorbidities, and use of therapy which associated with gastrointestinal bleeding, oral iron and deprivation score. We developed a linear regression model to identify variables amenable to improved primary care management. Results The prevalence of Stage 3–5 CKD was 6.76%. Hb was lower in CKD (13.2 g/dl) than without (13.7 g/dl). 22.2% of people with CKD had World Health Organization defined anaemia; 8.6% had Hb ≤ 11 g/dl; 3% Hb ≤ 10 g/dl; and 1% Hb ≤ 9 g/dl. Normocytic anaemia was present in 80.5% with Hb ≤ 11; 72.7% with Hb ≤ 10 g/dl; and 67.6% with Hb ≤ 9 g/dl; microcytic anaemia in 13.4% with Hb ≤ 11 g/dl; 20.8% with Hb ≤ 10 g/dl; and 24.9% where Hb ≤ 9 g/dl. 82.7% of people with microcytic and 58.8% with normocytic anaemia (Hb ≤ 11 g/dl) had a low ferritin (<100ug/mL). Hypertension (67.2% vs. 54%) and diabetes (30.7% vs. 15.4%) were more prevalent in CKD and anaemia; 61% had been prescribed aspirin; 73% non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); 14.1% warfarin 12.4% clopidogrel; and 53.1% aspirin and NSAID. 56.3% of people with CKD and anaemia had been prescribed oral iron. The main limitations of the study are that routine data are inevitably incomplete and definitions of anaemia have not been standardised. Conclusions Medication review is needed in people with CKD and anaemia prior to considering erythropoietin or parenteral iron. Iron stores may be depleted in over >60% of people with normocytic anaemia. Prescribing oral iron has not corrected anaemia. PMID:23351270

Effects of removal of different chemical components on moisture sorption property of Populus euramericana Cv. under dynamic hygrothermal conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Tiantian; Zhou, Haizhen; Ma, Erni; Wang, Jiamin

2018-09-01

Effects of chemical components on wood sorption property under dynamic condition were investigated for the first time. Hemicellulose, lignin and extractive (denoted as DHC, DL and DE, respectively) were removed from Populus euramericana Cv., 20 mm in radial (R) and tangential (T) directions with thickness of 4 mm along the grain, then the wood was subjected to cyclic tests where relative humidity (RH) varied from 45% to 75% sinusoidally at 25 °C. Based on measured data automatically, the results showed that, various chemical components had different effects on dynamic sorption behaviors of wood. The DL exhibited the largest moisture content and diffusion coefficient, followed by the DE, Control and DHC. This indicated lignin or extractive removal accelerated the dynamic sorption process and improved hygroscopicity of wood, while hemicellulose removal caused opposite effects. Theoretical sorption model was further applied and the modeled curves fitted satisfactorily with experimental data. Dynamic moisture gradient distribution inside the different treated wood was investigated and amplitude of moisture showed negative relation with wood element depth, while phase lag presented an opposite trend. Amplitude of DL was the largest while its phase lag was the least. Conditioning thickness for RH was greatest for DHC, about twice as much as the minimum of DL.

Comparative Efficacy and Immunogenicity of Replication-Defective, Recombinant Glycoprotein, and DNA Vaccines for Herpes Simplex Virus 2 Infections in Mice and Guinea Pigs

PubMed Central

Hoshino, Yo; Dalai, Sarat K.; Wang, Kening; Pesnicak, Lesley; Lau, Tsz Y.; Knipe, David M.; Cohen, Jeffrey I.; Straus, Stephen E.

2005-01-01

Many candidate vaccines are effective in animal models of genital herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection. Among them, clinical trials showed moderate protection from genital disease with recombinant HSV-2 glycoprotein D (gD2) in alum-monophosphoryl lipid A adjuvant only in HSV women seronegative for both HSV-1 and HSV-2, encouraging development of additional vaccine options. Therefore, we undertook direct comparative studies of the prophylactic and therapeutic efficacies and immunogenicities of three different classes of candidate vaccines given in four regimens to two species of animals: recombinant gD2, a plasmid expressing gD2, and dl5-29, a replication-defective strain of HSV-2 with the essential genes UL5 and UL29 deleted. Both dl5-29 and gD2 were highly effective in attenuating acute and recurrent disease and reducing latent viral load, and both were superior to the plasmid vaccine alone or the plasmid vaccine followed by one dose of dl5-29. dl5-29 was also effective in treating established infections. Moreover, latent dl5-29 virus could not be detected by PCR in sacral ganglia from guinea pigs vaccinated intravaginally. Finally, dl5-29 was superior to gD2 in inducing higher neutralizing antibody titers and the more rapid accumulation of HSV-2-specific CD8+ T cells in trigeminal ganglia after challenge with wild-type virus. Given its efficacy, its defectiveness for latency, and its ability to induce rapid, virus-specific CD8+-T-cell responses, the dl5-29 vaccine may be a good candidate for early-phase human trials. PMID:15596834

Comparative efficacy and immunogenicity of replication-defective, recombinant glycoprotein, and DNA vaccines for herpes simplex virus 2 infections in mice and guinea pigs.

PubMed

Hoshino, Yo; Dalai, Sarat K; Wang, Kening; Pesnicak, Lesley; Lau, Tsz Y; Knipe, David M; Cohen, Jeffrey I; Straus, Stephen E

2005-01-01

Many candidate vaccines are effective in animal models of genital herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection. Among them, clinical trials showed moderate protection from genital disease with recombinant HSV-2 glycoprotein D (gD2) in alum-monophosphoryl lipid A adjuvant only in HSV women seronegative for both HSV-1 and HSV-2, encouraging development of additional vaccine options. Therefore, we undertook direct comparative studies of the prophylactic and therapeutic efficacies and immunogenicities of three different classes of candidate vaccines given in four regimens to two species of animals: recombinant gD2, a plasmid expressing gD2, and dl5-29, a replication-defective strain of HSV-2 with the essential genes UL5 and UL29 deleted. Both dl5-29 and gD2 were highly effective in attenuating acute and recurrent disease and reducing latent viral load, and both were superior to the plasmid vaccine alone or the plasmid vaccine followed by one dose of dl5-29. dl5-29 was also effective in treating established infections. Moreover, latent dl5-29 virus could not be detected by PCR in sacral ganglia from guinea pigs vaccinated intravaginally. Finally, dl5-29 was superior to gD2 in inducing higher neutralizing antibody titers and the more rapid accumulation of HSV-2-specific CD8+ T cells in trigeminal ganglia after challenge with wild-type virus. Given its efficacy, its defectiveness for latency, and its ability to induce rapid, virus-specific CD8(+)-T-cell responses, the dl5-29 vaccine may be a good candidate for early-phase human trials.

DL-ReSuMe: A Delay Learning-Based Remote Supervised Method for Spiking Neurons.

PubMed

Taherkhani, Aboozar; Belatreche, Ammar; Li, Yuhua; Maguire, Liam P

2015-12-01

Recent research has shown the potential capability of spiking neural networks (SNNs) to model complex information processing in the brain. There is biological evidence to prove the use of the precise timing of spikes for information coding. However, the exact learning mechanism in which the neuron is trained to fire at precise times remains an open problem. The majority of the existing learning methods for SNNs are based on weight adjustment. However, there is also biological evidence that the synaptic delay is not constant. In this paper, a learning method for spiking neurons, called delay learning remote supervised method (DL-ReSuMe), is proposed to merge the delay shift approach and ReSuMe-based weight adjustment to enhance the learning performance. DL-ReSuMe uses more biologically plausible properties, such as delay learning, and needs less weight adjustment than ReSuMe. Simulation results have shown that the proposed DL-ReSuMe approach achieves learning accuracy and learning speed improvements compared with ReSuMe.

The fast debris evolution model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lewis, H. G.; Swinerd, G. G.; Newland, R. J.; Saunders, A.

2009-09-01

The 'particles-in-a-box' (PIB) model introduced by Talent [Talent, D.L. Analytic model for orbital debris environmental management. J. Spacecraft Rocket, 29 (4), 508-513, 1992.] removed the need for computer-intensive Monte Carlo simulation to predict the gross characteristics of an evolving debris environment. The PIB model was described using a differential equation that allows the stability of the low Earth orbit (LEO) environment to be tested by a straightforward analysis of the equation's coefficients. As part of an ongoing research effort to investigate more efficient approaches to evolutionary modelling and to develop a suite of educational tools, a new PIB model has been developed. The model, entitled Fast Debris Evolution (FADE), employs a first-order differential equation to describe the rate at which new objects ⩾10 cm are added and removed from the environment. Whilst Talent [Talent, D.L. Analytic model for orbital debris environmental management. J. Spacecraft Rocket, 29 (4), 508-513, 1992.] based the collision theory for the PIB approach on collisions between gas particles and adopted specific values for the parameters of the model from a number of references, the form and coefficients of the FADE model equations can be inferred from the outputs of future projections produced by high-fidelity models, such as the DAMAGE model. The FADE model has been implemented as a client-side, web-based service using JavaScript embedded within a HTML document. Due to the simple nature of the algorithm, FADE can deliver the results of future projections immediately in a graphical format, with complete user-control over key simulation parameters. Historical and future projections for the ⩾10 cm LEO debris environment under a variety of different scenarios are possible, including business as usual, no future launches, post-mission disposal and remediation. A selection of results is presented with comparisons with predictions made using the DAMAGE environment model. The results demonstrate that the FADE model is able to capture comparable time-series of collisions and number of objects as predicted by DAMAGE in several scenarios. Further, and perhaps more importantly, its speed and flexibility allows the user to explore and understand the evolution of the space debris environment.

Bolus Guide: A Novel Insulin Bolus Dosing Decision Support Tool Based on Selection of Carbohydrate Ranges

PubMed Central

Shapira, Gali; Yodfat, Ofer; HaCohen, Arava; Feigin, Paul; Rubin, Richard

2010-01-01

Background Optimal continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) therapy emphasizes the relationship between insulin dose and carbohydrate consumption. One widely used tool (bolus calculator) requires the user to enter discrete carbohydrate values; however, many patients might not estimate carbohydrates accurately. This study assessed carbohydrate estimation accuracy in type 1 diabetes CSII users and compared simulated blood glucose (BG) outcomes using the bolus calculator and the “bolus guide,” an alternative system based on ranges of carbohydrate load. Methods Patients (n = 60) estimated the carbohydrate load of a representative sample of meals of known carbohydrate value. The estimated error distribution [coefficient of variation (CV)] was the basis for a computer simulation (n = 1.6 million observations) of insulin recommendations for the bolus guide and bolus calculator, translated into outcome blood glucose (OBG) ranges (≤60, 61–200, >201 mg/dl). Patients (n = 30) completed questionnaires assessing satisfaction with the bolus guide. Results The CV of typical meals ranged from 27.9% to 44.5%. The percentage of simulated OBG for the calculator and the bolus guide in the <60 mg/dl range were 20.8% and 17.2%, respectively, and 13.8% and 15.8%, respectively, in the >200 mg/dl range. The mean and median scores of all bolus guide satisfaction items and ease of learning and use were 4.17 and 4.2, respectively (of 5.0). Conclusion The bolus guide recommendation based on carbohydrate range selection is substantially similar to the calculator based on carbohydrate point estimation and appears to be highly accepted by type 1 diabetes insulin pump users. PMID:20663453

SatelliteDL - An IDL Toolkit for the Analysis of Satellite Earth Observations - GOES, MODIS, VIIRS and CERES

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fillmore, D. W.; Galloy, M. D.; Kindig, D.

2013-12-01

SatelliteDL is an IDL toolkit for the analysis of satellite Earth observations from a diverse set of platforms and sensors. The design features an abstraction layer that allows for easy inclusion of new datasets in a modular way. The core function of the toolkit is the spatial and temporal alignment of satellite swath and geostationary data. IDL has a powerful suite of statistical and visualization tools that can be used in conjunction with SatelliteDL. Our overarching objective is to create utilities that automate the mundane aspects of satellite data analysis, are extensible and maintainable, and do not place limitations on the analysis itself. Toward this end we have constructed SatelliteDL to include (1) HTML and LaTeX API document generation, (2) a unit test framework, (3) automatic message and error logs, (4) HTML and LaTeX plot and table generation, and (5) several real world examples with bundled datasets available for download. For ease of use, datasets, variables and optional workflows may be specified in a flexible format configuration file. Configuration statements may specify, for example, a region and date range, and the creation of images, plots and statistical summary tables for a long list of variables. SatelliteDL enforces data provenance; all data should be traceable and reproducible. The output NetCDF file metadata holds a complete history of the original datasets and their transformations, and a method exists to reconstruct a configuration file from this information. Release 0.1.0 of SatelliteDL is anticipated for the 2013 Fall AGU conference. It will distribute with ingest methods for GOES, MODIS, VIIRS and CERES radiance data (L1) as well as select 2D atmosphere products (L2) such as aerosol and cloud (MODIS and VIIRS) and radiant flux (CERES). Future releases will provide ingest methods for ocean and land surface products, gridded and time averaged datasets (L3 Daily, Monthly and Yearly), and support for 3D products such as temperature and water vapor profiles. Emphasis will be on NPP Sensor, Environmental and Climate Data Records as they become available. To obtain SatelliteDL (from 2013 December onward) please visit the project website at the indicated URL. Our poster exhibits three regional weather examples of SatelliteDL in action: (1) a mesoscale convective complex over the Great Plains (GOES, MODIS, VIIRS and CERES), (2) a dust storm over Arabia (MODIS, VIIRS and CERES) and (3) a volcanic ash plume over Patagonia and the South Atlantic (GOES, MODIS and CERES). In these examples the GOES radiances are cross-calibrated with MODIS. Cloud products are shown in examples (1) and (3) and aerosol products in examples (2) and (3).

Two GH3 genes from longan are differentially regulated during fruit growth and development.

PubMed

Kuang, Jian-Fei; Zhang, Yu; Chen, Jian-ye; Chen, Qiu-Jin; Jiang, Yue-Ming; Lin, He-Tong; Xu, Shi-Juan; Lu, Wang-Jin

2011-10-01

In the present work, two full length cDNAs of GH3 genes, named DlGH3.1 and DlGH3.2 were cloned from pericarp and aril tissues of the longan fruit, respectively. Three conserved motifs, SSGTSAGERK, YASSE and YRVGD, as a characteristic of the acyladenylate/thioester forming enzyme superfamily were observed in DlGH3.1 and DlGH3.2 proteins. DlGH3.1 mainly expressed in pericarp tissues while DlGH3.2 accumulated in both the pericarp and aril tissues during fruit growth and development. In addition, NAA treatment induced the expression of DlGH3.1 and DlGH3.2 in the pericarp tissues at 21 and 77days after anthesis (DAA), while only DlGH3.2 in the aril tissues could be induced by NAA at 77DAA. More importantly, ABA and ethrel treatments suppressed the accumulations of DlGH3.1 and DlGH3.2 in the pericarp tissues of longan fruit at 21DAA (a rapid growth stage of pericarp), but enhanced DlGH3.2 expression in the aril tissues at 77DAA (a fruit ripening stage). Furthermore, the expression patterns of DlGH3.1 and DlGH3.2 showed different tissue specificity. Thus, our results suggest that DlGH3.1 gene expression might be associated with pericarp growth, while DlGH3.2 accumulation is likely to be related to both pericarp growth and fruit ripening, and the responses of DlGH3s to plant growth hormones are different and dependent on fruit development stage and fruit tissue. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Structure of dysprosium(111) dl-tartrate dimer in aqueous solution

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

Chevela, V.V.; Vulfson, S.G.; Salnikov, Y.I.

1994-10-01

The paramagnetic birefringence method was supplemented by numerical simulation to determine the molar paramagnetic-birefringence constant of the dysprosium dl-tartrate dimer Dy{sub 2}(d-L)(l-L){sup 2-} (I), where d-L{sup 4-} and l-L{sup 4-} are the deprotonated d- and l-tartaric acid molecules, respectively. The structure of the ligand and hydration surroundings of I was modeled by molecular mechanic calculations (the Dashevskii-Pylamovatyi model). It is shown that adequate results can be obtained only if one takes into account the coordination of I to the Na{sup +} ion.

Evaluating the clinical accuracy of two continuous glucose sensors using continuous glucose-error grid analysis.

PubMed

Clarke, William L; Anderson, Stacey; Farhy, Leon; Breton, Marc; Gonder-Frederick, Linda; Cox, Daniel; Kovatchev, Boris

2005-10-01

To compare the clinical accuracy of two different continuous glucose sensors (CGS) during euglycemia and hypoglycemia using continuous glucose-error grid analysis (CG-EGA). FreeStyle Navigator (Abbott Laboratories, Alameda, CA) and MiniMed CGMS (Medtronic, Northridge, CA) CGSs were applied to the abdomens of 16 type 1 diabetic subjects (age 42 +/- 3 years) 12 h before the initiation of the study. Each system was calibrated according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Each subject underwent a hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp (blood glucose goal 110 mg/dl) for 70-210 min followed by a 1-mg.dl(-1).min(-1) controlled reduction in blood glucose toward a nadir of 40 mg/dl. Arterialized blood glucose was determined every 5 min using a Beckman Glucose Analyzer (Fullerton, CA). CGS glucose recordings were matched to the reference blood glucose with 30-s precision, and rates of glucose change were calculated for 5-min intervals. CG-EGA was used to quantify the clinical accuracy of both systems by estimating combined point and rate accuracy of each system in the euglycemic (70-180 mg/dl) and hypoglycemic (<70 mg/dl) ranges. A total of 1,104 data pairs were recorded in the euglycemic range and 250 data pairs in the hypoglycemic range. Overall correlation between CGS and reference glucose was similar for both systems (Navigator, r = 0.84; CGMS, r = 0.79, NS). During euglycemia, both CGS systems had similar clinical accuracy (Navigator zones A + B, 88.8%; CGMS zones A + B, 89.3%, NS). However, during hypoglycemia, the Navigator was significantly more clinically accurate than the CGMS (zones A + B = 82.4 vs. 61.6%, Navigator and CGMS, respectively, P < 0.0005). CG-EGA is a helpful tool for evaluating and comparing the clinical accuracy of CGS systems in different blood glucose ranges. CG-EGA provides accuracy details beyond other methods of evaluation, including correlational analysis and the original EGA.

A multifaceted computational report on the variants effect on KIR2DL3 and IFNL3 candidate gene in HCV clearance.

PubMed

Singh, Pratichi; Dass, J Febin Prabhu

2016-10-01

HCV infection causes acute and chronic liver diseases including, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Following HCV infection, spontaneous clearance occurs in approximately 20 % of the population dependant upon HCV genotype. In this study, functional and non-functional variant analysis was executed for the classical and the latest HCV clearance candidate genes namely, KIR2DL3 and IFNL3. Initially, the functional effects of non-synonymous SNPs were assigned on exposing to homology based tools, SIFT, PolyPhen-2 and PROVEAN. Further, UTR and splice sites variants were scanned for the gene expression and regulation changes. Subsequently, the haplotype and CNV were also identified. The mutation H77Y of KIR2DL3 and R157Q, H156Y, S63L, R157W, F179V, H128R, T101M, R180C, and F176I of IFNL3 results in conservation, RMSD, total energy, stability, and secondary structures revealed a negative impact on the structural fitness. UTRscan and the splice site result indicate functional change, which may affect gene regulation and expression. The graphical display of selected population shows alleles like rs270779, rs2296370, rs10423751, rs12982559, rs9797797, and rs35987710 of KIR2DL3 and rs12972991, rs12980275, rs4803217, rs8109886, and rs8099917 of IFNL3 are in high LD with a measure of [Formula: see text] broadcasting its protective effect in HCV clearance. Similarly, CNV report suggests major DNA fragment loss that could have a profound impact on the gene expression affecting the overall phenotype. This roundup report specifies the effect of NK cell receptor, KIR2DL3 and IFNL3 variants that can have a better prospect in GWAS and immunogenetic studies leading to better understanding of HCV clearance and progression.

Dielectric constant extraction of graphene nanostructured on SiC substrates from spectroscopy ellipsometry measurement using Gauss–Newton inversion method

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

Maulina, Hervin; Santoso, Iman, E-mail: iman.santoso@ugm.ac.id; Subama, Emmistasega

2016-04-19

The extraction of the dielectric constant of nanostructured graphene on SiC substrates from spectroscopy ellipsometry measurement using the Gauss-Newton inversion (GNI) method has been done. This study aims to calculate the dielectric constant and refractive index of graphene by extracting the value of ψ and Δ from the spectroscopy ellipsometry measurement using GNI method and comparing them with previous result which was extracted using Drude-Lorentz (DL) model. The results show that GNI method can be used to calculate the dielectric constant and refractive index of nanostructured graphene on SiC substratesmore faster as compared to DL model. Moreover, the imaginary partmore » of the dielectric constant values and coefficient of extinction drastically increases at 4.5 eV similar to that of extracted using known DL fitting. The increase is known due to the process of interband transition and the interaction between the electrons and electron-hole at M-points in the Brillouin zone of graphene.« less

Deep learning for single-molecule science

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Albrecht, Tim; Slabaugh, Gregory; Alonso, Eduardo; Al-Arif, SM Masudur R.

2017-10-01

Exploring and making predictions based on single-molecule data can be challenging, not only due to the sheer size of the datasets, but also because a priori knowledge about the signal characteristics is typically limited and poor signal-to-noise ratio. For example, hypothesis-driven data exploration, informed by an expectation of the signal characteristics, can lead to interpretation bias or loss of information. Equally, even when the different data categories are known, e.g., the four bases in DNA sequencing, it is often difficult to know how to make best use of the available information content. The latest developments in machine learning (ML), so-called deep learning (DL) offer interesting, new avenues to address such challenges. In some applications, such as speech and image recognition, DL has been able to outperform conventional ML strategies and even human performance. However, to date DL has not been applied much in single-molecule science, presumably in part because relatively little is known about the ‘internal workings’ of such DL tools within single-molecule science as a field. In this Tutorial, we make an attempt to illustrate in a step-by-step guide how one of those, a convolutional neural network (CNN), may be used for base calling in DNA sequencing applications. We compare it with a SVM as a more conventional ML method, and discuss some of the strengths and weaknesses of the approach. In particular, a ‘deep’ neural network has many features of a ‘black box’, which has important implications on how we look at and interpret data.

A comparative study of deep learning models for medical image classification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dutta, Suvajit; Manideep, B. C. S.; Rai, Shalva; Vijayarajan, V.

2017-11-01

Deep Learning(DL) techniques are conquering over the prevailing traditional approaches of neural network, when it comes to the huge amount of dataset, applications requiring complex functions demanding increase accuracy with lower time complexities. Neurosciences has already exploited DL techniques, thus portrayed itself as an inspirational source for researchers exploring the domain of Machine learning. DL enthusiasts cover the areas of vision, speech recognition, motion planning and NLP as well, moving back and forth among fields. This concerns with building models that can successfully solve variety of tasks requiring intelligence and distributed representation. The accessibility to faster CPUs, introduction of GPUs-performing complex vector and matrix computations, supported agile connectivity to network. Enhanced software infrastructures for distributed computing worked in strengthening the thought that made researchers suffice DL methodologies. The paper emphases on the following DL procedures to traditional approaches which are performed manually for classifying medical images. The medical images are used for the study Diabetic Retinopathy(DR) and computed tomography (CT) emphysema data. Both DR and CT data diagnosis is difficult task for normal image classification methods. The initial work was carried out with basic image processing along with K-means clustering for identification of image severity levels. After determining image severity levels ANN has been applied on the data to get the basic classification result, then it is compared with the result of DNNs (Deep Neural Networks), which performed efficiently because of its multiple hidden layer features basically which increases accuracy factors, but the problem of vanishing gradient in DNNs made to consider Convolution Neural Networks (CNNs) as well for better results. The CNNs are found to be providing better outcomes when compared to other learning models aimed at classification of images. CNNs are favoured as they provide better visual processing models successfully classifying the noisy data as well. The work centres on the detection on Diabetic Retinopathy-loss in vision and recognition of computed tomography (CT) emphysema data measuring the severity levels for both cases. The paper discovers how various Machine Learning algorithms can be implemented ensuing a supervised approach, so as to get accurate results with less complexity possible.

ZIP2DL: An Elastic-Plastic, Large-Rotation Finite-Element Stress Analysis and Crack-Growth Simulation Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Deng, Xiaomin; Newman, James C., Jr.

1997-01-01

ZIP2DL is a two-dimensional, elastic-plastic finte element program for stress analysis and crack growth simulations, developed for the NASA Langley Research Center. It has many of the salient features of the ZIP2D program. For example, ZIP2DL contains five material models (linearly elastic, elastic-perfectly plastic, power-law hardening, linear hardening, and multi-linear hardening models), and it can simulate mixed-mode crack growth for prescribed crack growth paths under plane stress, plane strain and mixed state of stress conditions. Further, as an extension of ZIP2D, it also includes a number of new capabilities. The large-deformation kinematics in ZIP2DL will allow it to handle elastic problems with large strains and large rotations, and elastic-plastic problems with small strains and large rotations. Loading conditions in terms of surface traction, concentrated load, and nodal displacement can be applied with a default linear time dependence or they can be programmed according to a user-defined time dependence through a user subroutine. The restart capability of ZIP2DL will make it possible to stop the execution of the program at any time, analyze the results and/or modify execution options and resume and continue the execution of the program. This report includes three sectons: a theoretical manual section, a user manual section, and an example manual secton. In the theoretical secton, the mathematics behind the various aspects of the program are concisely outlined. In the user manual section, a line-by-line explanation of the input data is given. In the example manual secton, three types of examples are presented to demonstrate the accuracy and illustrate the use of this program.

A General Model of Dioxin Contamination in Breast Milk: Results from a Study on 94 Women from the Caserta and Naples Areas in Italy

PubMed Central

Rivezzi, Gaetano; Piscitelli, Prisco; Scortichini, Giampiero; Giovannini, Armando; Diletti, Gianfranco; Migliorati, Giacomo; Ceci, Roberta; Rivezzi, Giulia; Cirasino, Lorenzo; Carideo, Pietro; Black, Dennis M.; Garzillo, Carmine; Giani, Umberto

2013-01-01

Background: The Caserta and Naples areas in Campania Region experience heavy environmental contamination due to illegal waste disposal and burns, thus representing a valuable setting to develop a general model of human contamination with dioxins (PCDDs-PCDFs) and dioxin-like-PCBs (dl-PCBs). Methods: 94 breastfeeding women (aged 19–32 years; mean age 27.9 ± 3.0) were recruited to determine concentrations of PCDDs-PCDFs and dl-PCBs in their milk. Individual milk samples were collected and analyzed according to standard international procedures. A generalized linear model was used to test potential predictors of pollutant concentration in breast milk: age, exposure to waste fires, cigarette smoking, diet, and residence in high/low risk area (defined at high/low environmental pressure by a specific 2007 WHO report). A Structural Equation Model (SEM) analysis was carried out by taking into account PCDDs-PCDFs and dl-PCBs as endogenous variables and age, waste fires, risk area and smoking as exogenous variables. Results: All milk samples were contaminated by PCDDs-PCDFs (8.6 pg WHO-TEQ/98g fat ± 2.7; range 3.8–19) and dl-PCBs (8.0 pg WHO-TEQ/98g fat ± 3.7; range 2.5–24), with their concentrations being associated with age and exposure to waste fires (p < 0.01). Exposure to fires resulted in larger increases of dioxins concentrations in people living in low risk areas than those from high risk areas (p < 0.01). Conclusions: A diffuse human exposure to persistent organic pollutants was observed in the Caserta and Naples areas. Dioxins concentration in women living in areas classified at low environmental pressure in 2007 WHO report was significantly influenced by exposure to burns. PMID:24217180

Carob pod insoluble fiber exerts anti-atherosclerotic effects in rabbits through sirtuin-1 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α.

PubMed

Valero-Muñoz, María; Martín-Fernández, Beatriz; Ballesteros, Sandra; Lahera, Vicente; de las Heras, Natalia

2014-09-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential effects of an insoluble dietary fiber from carob pod (IFC) (1 g ⋅ kg(-1) ⋅ d(-1) in the diet) on alterations associated with atherosclerosis in rabbits with dyslipidemia. Male New Zealand rabbits (n = 30) were fed the following diets for 8 wk: 1) a control diet (SF412; Panlab) as a control group representing normal conditions; 2) a control supplemented with 0.5% cholesterol + 14% coconut oil (DL) (SF302; Panlab) for 8 wk as a dyslipidemic group; and 3) a control containing 0.5% cholesterol + 14% coconut oil plus IFC (1 g ⋅ kg(-1) ⋅ d(-1)) (DL+IFC) for 8 wk. IFC was administered in a pellet mixed with the DL diet. The DL-fed group developed mixed dyslipidemia and atherosclerotic lesions, which were associated with endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and fibrosis. Furthermore, sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) protein expression in the aorta were reduced to 77% and 63% of the control group, respectively (P < 0.05), in these rabbits. Administration of IFC to DL-fed rabbits reduced the size of the aortic lesion significantly (DL, 15.2% and DL+IFC, 2.6%) and normalized acetylcholine-induced relaxation (maximal response: control, 89.3%; DL, 61.6%; DL+IFC, 87.1%; P < 0.05) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression (DL, 52% and DL+IFC, 104% of the control group). IFC administration to DL-fed rabbits also reduced cluster of differentiation 36 (DL, 148% and DL+IFC, 104% of the control group; P < 0.05), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (DL, 141% and DL+IFC, 107% of the control group), tumor necrosis factor-α (DL, 166% and DL+IFC, 120% of the control group), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (DL, 153% and DL+IFC, 110% of the control group), transforming growth factor-β (DL, 173% and DL+IFC, 99% of the control group), and collagen I (DL, 157% and DL+IFC, 112% of the control group) in the aorta. These effects were accompanied by an enhancement of SIRT1 and PGC-1α (160% and 121% of the control group, respectively; P < 0.05) vascular expression. In summary, we demonstrated for the first time, to our knowledge, that administration of IFC reduces the development of atherosclerosis in rabbits. This effect seems to be related to an improvement in endothelial function and a reduction of inflammation and fibrosis, most probably as a consequence of the reduction of serum concentrations of cholesterol and triglycerides. Increased expression of aortic SIRT1 and PGC-1α could play an important role in the observed effects of IFC in rabbits with dyslipidemia. © 2014 American Society for Nutrition.

A novel model of persistent retinal neovascularization for the development of sustained anti-VEGF therapies.

PubMed

Li, Yong; Busoy, Joanna Marie; Zaman, Ben Alfyan Achirn; Tan, Queenie Shu Woon; Tan, Gavin Siew Wei; Barathi, Veluchamy Amutha; Cheung, Ning; Wei, Jay Ji-Ye; Hunziker, Walter; Hong, Wanjin; Wong, Tien Yin; Cheung, Chui Ming Gemmy

2018-05-28

Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapies lead to a major breakthrough in treatment of neovascular retinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy. Current management of these conditions require regular and frequent intravitreal injections to prevent disease recurrence once the effect of the injected drug wears off. This has led to a pressing clinical need of developing sustained release formulations or therapies with longer duration. A major drawback in developing such therapies is that the currently available animal models show spontaneous regression of vascular leakage. They therefore not only fail to recapitulate retinal vascular disease in humans, but also prevent to discern if regression is due to prolonged therapeutic effect or simply reflects spontaneous healing. Here, we described the development of a novel rabbit model of persistent retinal neovascularization (PRNV). Retinal Müller glial are essential for maintaining the integrity of the blood-retinal barrier. Intravitreal injection of DL-alpha-aminoadipic acid (DL-AAA), a selective retinal glial (Müller) cell toxin, results in persistent vascular leakage for up to 48 weeks. We demonstrated that VEGF concentrations were significantly increased in vitreous suggesting VEGF plays a significant role in mediating the leakage observed. Intravitreal administration of anti-VEGF drugs (e.g. bevacizumab, ranibizumab and aflibercept) suppresses vascular leakage for 8-10 weeks, before recurrence of leakage to pre-treatment levels. All three anti-VEGF drugs are very effective in re-ducing angiographic leakage in PRNV model, and aflibercept demonstrated a longer duration of action compared with the others, reminiscent of what is observed with these drugs in human in the clinical setting. Therefore, this model provides a unique tool to evaluate novel anti-VEGF formulations and therapies with respect to their duration of action in comparison to the currently used drugs. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

New Aspects of the Pathogenesis of Canine Distemper Leukoencephalitis

PubMed Central

Lempp, Charlotte; Spitzbarth, Ingo; Puff, Christina; Cana, Armend; Kegler, Kristel; Techangamsuwan, Somporn; Baumgärtner, Wolfgang; Seehusen, Frauke

2014-01-01

Canine distemper virus (CDV) is a member of the genus morbillivirus, which is known to cause a variety of disorders in dogs including demyelinating leukoencephalitis (CDV-DL). In recent years, substantial progress in understanding the pathogenetic mechanisms of CDV-DL has been made. In vivo and in vitro investigations provided new insights into its pathogenesis with special emphasis on axon-myelin-glia interaction, potential endogenous mechanisms of regeneration, and astroglial plasticity. CDV-DL is characterized by lesions with a variable degree of demyelination and mononuclear inflammation accompanied by a dysregulated orchestration of cytokines as well as matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors. Despite decades of research, several new aspects of the neuropathogenesis of CDV-DL have been described only recently. Early axonal damage seems to represent an initial and progressive lesion in CDV-DL, which interestingly precedes demyelination. Axonopathy may, thus, function as a potential trigger for subsequent disturbed axon-myelin-glia interactions. In particular, the detection of early axonal damage suggests that demyelination is at least in part a secondary event in CDV-DL, thus challenging the dogma of CDV as a purely primary demyelinating disease. Another unexpected finding refers to the appearance of p75 neurotrophin (NTR)-positive bipolar cells during CDV-DL. As p75NTR is a prototype marker for immature Schwann cells, this finding suggests that Schwann cell remyelination might represent a so far underestimated endogenous mechanism of regeneration, though this hypothesis still remains to be proven. Although it is well known that astrocytes represent the major target of CDV infection in CDV-DL, the detection of infected vimentin-positive astrocytes in chronic lesions indicates a crucial role of this cell population in nervous distemper. While glial fibrillary acidic protein represents the characteristic intermediate filament of mature astrocytes, expression of vimentin is generally restricted to immature or reactive astrocytes. Thus, vimentin-positive astrocytes might constitute an important cell population for CDV persistence and spread, as well as lesion progression. In vitro models, such as dissociated glial cell cultures, as well as organotypic brain slice cultures have contributed to a better insight into mechanisms of infection and certain morphological and molecular aspects of CDV-DL. Summarized, recent in vivo and in vitro studies revealed remarkable new aspects of nervous distemper. These new perceptions substantially improved our understanding of the pathogenesis of CDV-DL and might represent new starting points to develop novel treatment strategies. PMID:24992230

A reusable robust radio frequency biosensor using microwave resonator by integrated passive device technology for quantitative detection of glucose level.

PubMed

Kim, N Y; Dhakal, R; Adhikari, K K; Kim, E S; Wang, C

2015-05-15

A reusable robust radio frequency (RF) biosensor with a rectangular meandered line (RML) resonator on a gallium arsenide substrate by integrated passive device (IPD) technology was designed, fabricated and tested to enable the real-time identification of the glucose level in human serum. The air-bridge structure fabricated by an IPD technology was applied to the RML resonator to improve its sensitivity by increasing the magnitude of the return loss (S21). The resonance behaviour, based on S21 characteristics of the biosensor, was analysed at 9.20 GHz with human serum containing different glucose concentration ranging from 148-268 mg dl(-1), 105-225 mg dl(-1) and at a deionised (D) water glucose concentration in the range of 25- 500 mg dl(-1) for seven different samples. A calibration analysis was performed for the human serum from two different subjects and for D-glucose at a response time of 60 s; the reproducibility, the minimum shift in resonance frequency and the long-term stability of the signal were investigated. The feature characteristics based on the resonance concept after the use of serum as an analyte are modelled as an inductor, capacitor and resistor. The findings support the development of resonance-based sensing with an excellent sensitivity of 1.08 MHz per 1 mg dl(-1), a detection limit of 8.01 mg dl(-1), and a limit of quantisation of 24.30 mg dl(-1). Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Lead-induced anemia: Dose-response relationships and evidence for a threshold

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

Schwartz, J.; Landrigan, P.J.; Baker, E.L. Jr.

1990-02-01

We conducted a cross-sectional epidemiologic study to assess the association between blood lead level and hematocrit in 579 one to five year-old children living near a primary lead smelter in 1974. Blood lead levels ranged from 0.53 to 7.91 mumol/L (11 to 164 micrograms/dl). To predict hematocrit as a function of blood lead level and age, we derived non-linear regression models and fit percentile curves. We used logistic regression to predict the probability of hematocrit values less than 35 per cent. We found a strong non-linear, dose-response relationship between blood lead level and hematocrit. This relationship was influenced by age,more » but (in this age group) not by sex; the effect was strongest in youngest children. In one year-olds, the age group most severely affected, the risk of an hematocrit value below 35 percent was 2 percent above background at blood lead levels between 0.97 and 1.88 mumol/L (20 and 39 micrograms/dl), 18 percent above background at lead levels of 1.93 to 2.85 mumol/L (40 to 59 micrograms/dl), and 40 percent above background at lead levels of 2.9 mumol/L (60 micrograms/dl) and greater; background was defined as a blood lead level below 1.88 mumol/L (20 micrograms/dl). This effect appeared independent of iron deficiency. These findings suggest that blood lead levels close to the currently recommended limit value of 1.21 mumol/L (25 micrograms/dl) are associated with dose-related depression of hematocrit in young children.« less

Building the Knowledge Base to Support the Automatic Animation Generation of Chinese Traditional Architecture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Gongjin; Bai, Weijing; Yin, Meifang; Zhang, Songmao

We present a practice of applying the Semantic Web technologies in the domain of Chinese traditional architecture. A knowledge base consisting of one ontology and four rule bases is built to support the automatic generation of animations that demonstrate the construction of various Chinese timber structures based on the user's input. Different Semantic Web formalisms are used, e.g., OWL DL, SWRL and Jess, to capture the domain knowledge, including the wooden components needed for a given building, construction sequence, and the 3D size and position of every piece of wood. Our experience in exploiting the current Semantic Web technologies in real-world application systems indicates their prominent advantages (such as the reasoning facilities and modeling tools) as well as the limitations (such as low efficiency).

Maternal nutritional status during pregnancy and surma use determine cord lead levels in Karachi, Pakistan

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

Janjua, Naveed Zafar; Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi; Delzell, Elizabeth

Objectives: To estimate the umbilical cord blood lead levels (BLLs) of Pakistani neonates and to identify determinants for umbilical BLLs. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of mothers and infants at one of the two obstetric units of two tertiary care hospitals in Karachi during January-August 2005. Information from 540 mothers selected randomly from those registered for delivery was obtained about their pregnancy, diet, and current and past lead exposures. We collected umbilical cord blood for lead levels analyzed using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry. We computed geometric and arithmetic means. We performed multiple linear regression analysis to identify factorsmore » associated with log-transformed umbilical cord BLLs. We also performed logistic regression analysis to identify determinants of high lead cord BLLs ({>=}10 {mu}g/dl). Results: The geometric mean cord BLL of the neonates was 9.6 {mu}g/dl; arithmetic mean (S.D.) was 10.8 {mu}g/dl (5.7) with a median of 9.7 {mu}g/dl and a range of 1.8-48.9 {mu}g/dl. Women who reported intake of less than 58.5 mg of elemental iron supplement per day during pregnancy had cord BLL of 10.0 {mu}g/dl; in comparison those women who had higher iron intake had lower cord BLL (8.4 {mu}g/dl). Those who used surma (an eye cosmetic) daily had higher cord BLL (11.5 {mu}g/dl) as compared to those who used it less frequently (9.4 {mu}g/dl). In multivariable linear regression model, higher iron intake, owning a car, and being in 2nd quartile of mid-arm circumference were associated with low lead levels while father's occupation in lead-based industry was associated with significantly higher umbilical cord BLLs. There was interaction of daily surma use and ethnicity. Geometric mean BLLs were varied among surma users by ethnicity. Conclusions: Umbilical cord BLLs are high in Karachi, Pakistan, in comparison to those in developed countries such as United States. Measures are needed to reduce fetal lead exposure to prevent adverse affect on neurocognitive development. Association of low iron (below RDA of 60 mg per day) with high umbilical cord has implications for strengthening iron supplement intake during pregnancy. Umbilical cord BLLs differed among surma users by ethnicity.« less

General deterrence effects of U.S. statutory DUI fine and jail penalties: long-term follow-up in 32 states.

PubMed

Wagenaar, Alexander C; Maldonado-Molina, Mildred M; Erickson, Darin J; Ma, Linan; Tobler, Amy L; Komro, Kelli A

2007-09-01

We examined effects of state statutory changes in DUI fine or jail penalties for firsttime offenders from 1976 to 2002. A quasi-experimental time-series design was used (n=324 monthly observations). Four outcome measures of drivers involved in alcohol-related fatal crashes are: single-vehicle nighttime, low BAC (0.01-0.07g/dl), medium BAC (0.08-0.14g/dl), high BAC (>/=0.15g/dl). All analyses of BAC outcomes included multiple imputation procedures for cases with missing data. Comparison series of non-alcohol-related crashes were included to efficiently control for effects of other factors. Statistical models include state-specific Box-Jenkins ARIMA models, and pooled general linear mixed models. Twenty-six states implemented mandatory minimum fine policies and 18 states implemented mandatory minimum jail penalties. Estimated effects varied widely from state to state. Using variance weighted meta-analysis methods to aggregate results across states, mandatory fine policies are associated with an average reduction in fatal crash involvement by drivers with BAC>/=0.08g/dl of 8% (averaging 13 per state per year). Mandatory minimum jail policies are associated with a decline in single-vehicle nighttime fatal crash involvement of 6% (averaging 5 per state per year), and a decline in low-BAC cases of 9% (averaging 3 per state per year). No significant effects were observed for the other outcome measures. The overall pattern of results suggests a possible effect of mandatory fine policies in some states, but little effect of mandatory jail policies.

A 2-D numerical simulation study on longitudinal solute transport and longitudinal dispersion coefficient

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Wei

2011-07-01

The longitudinal dispersion coefficient, DL, is a fundamental parameter of longitudinal solute transport models: the advection-dispersion (AD) model and various deadzone models. Since DL cannot be measured directly, and since its calibration using tracer test data is quite expensive and not always available, researchers have developed various methods, theoretical or empirical, for estimating DL by easier available cross-sectional hydraulic measurements (i.e., the transverse velocity profile, etc.). However, for known and unknown reasons, DL cannot be satisfactorily predicted using these theoretical/empirical formulae. Either there is very large prediction error for theoretical methods, or there is a lack of generality for the empirical formulae. Here, numerical experiments using Mike21, a software package that implements one of the most rigorous two-dimensional hydrodynamic and solute transport equations, for longitudinal solute transport in hypothetical streams, are presented. An analysis of the evolution of simulated solute clouds indicates that the two fundamental assumptions in Fischer's longitudinal transport analysis may be not reasonable. The transverse solute concentration distribution, and hence the longitudinal transport appears to be controlled by a dimensionless number ?, where Q is the average volumetric flowrate, Dt is a cross-sectional average transverse dispersion coefficient, and W is channel flow width. A simple empirical ? relationship may be established. Analysis and a revision of Fischer's theoretical formula suggest that ɛ influences the efficiency of transverse mixing and hence has restraining effect on longitudinal spreading. The findings presented here would improve and expand our understanding of longitudinal solute transport in open channel flow.

[Nephrocalcinosis associated with the use of anabolic steroid].

PubMed

Luchi, Weverton Machado; Ricarte, Rodrigo Nasser; Roitman, Luciana Fernandes; Santos, Omar da Rosa

2015-01-01

The anabolic steroid have been used as a therapeutic tool in various clinical conditions. However, indiscriminate use associated with other nutritional supplements has generated serious adverse effects. Male, 21 years old, admitted with nausea, fatigue, appetite loss, headache and hypertension. Blood tests showed Cr: 3.9 mg% U: 100 mg% and Total Calcium 14 mg/dl. Ultrasonography and renal biopsy were consistent with nephrocalcinosis. There has been gradual improvement in renal function and calcium levels after vigorous hydration and furosemide. However, after 1 year, renal calcium deposits persist, corticomedullary ratio reduced in ultrasound and stable creatinine of 1.4 mg/dl. Previous cases showed acute tubular necrosis and interstitial nephritis with little calcium deposits in the renal interstitium. In this case we found severe nephrocalcinosis associated with nephrosclerosis. Our objective is to report the occurrence of acute kidney Injury with nephrocalcinosis associated with use of anabolic steroid and provide a review of the matter.

Ontology-based approach for in vivo human connectomics: the medial Brodmann area 6 case study

PubMed Central

Moreau, Tristan; Gibaud, Bernard

2015-01-01

Different non-invasive neuroimaging modalities and multi-level analysis of human connectomics datasets yield a great amount of heterogeneous data which are hard to integrate into an unified representation. Biomedical ontologies can provide a suitable integrative framework for domain knowledge as well as a tool to facilitate information retrieval, data sharing and data comparisons across scales, modalities and species. Especially, it is urgently needed to fill the gap between neurobiology and in vivo human connectomics in order to better take into account the reality highlighted in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and relate it to existing brain knowledge. The aim of this study was to create a neuroanatomical ontology, called “Human Connectomics Ontology” (HCO), in order to represent macroscopic gray matter regions connected with fiber bundles assessed by diffusion tractography and to annotate MRI connectomics datasets acquired in the living human brain. First a neuroanatomical “view” called NEURO-DL-FMA was extracted from the reference ontology Foundational Model of Anatomy (FMA) in order to construct a gross anatomy ontology of the brain. HCO extends NEURO-DL-FMA by introducing entities (such as “MR_Node” and “MR_Route”) and object properties (such as “tracto_connects”) pertaining to MR connectivity. The Web Ontology Language Description Logics (OWL DL) formalism was used in order to enable reasoning with common reasoning engines. Moreover, an experimental work was achieved in order to demonstrate how the HCO could be effectively used to address complex queries concerning in vivo MRI connectomics datasets. Indeed, neuroimaging datasets of five healthy subjects were annotated with terms of the HCO and a multi-level analysis of the connectivity patterns assessed by diffusion tractography of the right medial Brodmann Area 6 was achieved using a set of queries. This approach can facilitate comparison of data across scales, modalities and species. PMID:25914640

Solubility calculations of branched and linear amino acids using lattice cluster theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fischlschweiger, Michael; Enders, Sabine; Zeiner, Tim

2014-09-01

In this work, the activity coefficients and the solubility of amino acids in water were calculated using the lattice cluster theory (LCT) combined with the extended chemical association lattice model allowing self-association as well as cross-association. This permits the study of the influence of the amino acids structure on the thermodynamic properties for the first time. By the used model, the activity coefficient and solubilities of the investigated fourteen amino acids (glycine, alanine, γ-aminobutyric acid, dl-valine, dl-threonine, dl-methionine, l-leucine, l-glutamic acid, l-proline, hydroxyproline, histidine, l-arginine, α-amino valeric acid) could be described in good accordance with experimental data. In the case of different α-amino acids, but different hydrocarbon chains, the same interaction energy parameter can be used within the LCT. All studied amino acids could be modelled using the same parameter for the description of the amino acid association properties. The formed cross-associates contain more amino acids than expressed by the overall mole fraction of the solution. Moreover, the composition of the cross-associates depends on temperature, where the amount of amino acids increases with increasing temperature.

Pharmacodynamic action and mechanism of Du Liang soft capsule, a traditional Chinese medicine capsule, on treating nitroglycerin-induced migraine.

PubMed

Hou, Min; Tang, Qing; Xue, Qiang; Zhang, Xiaona; Liu, Yang; Yang, Sheng; Chen, Liechun; Xu, Xiaoyu

2017-01-04

Du Liang soft capsule (DL) is a traditional Chinese medicine for treating migraines; it is made from two Chinese herbs, including LigusticumstriatumDC., root; Angelica dahurica (Hoffm.) Benth. & Hook.f. ex Franch. & Sav., root. In the present study, we aimed to elucidate the pharmacodynamic action of DL and its mechanism in an animal model of migraines induced by glyceryl trinitrate (GTN). Sixty rats were randomly divided into six groups, including a normal control group, model control group, positive group (Sumatriptan 0.006gkg -1 ), and three DL groups (0.44, 1.31 and 3.93gkg -1 ). All rats were intragastrically treated with the corresponding treatment for 7 consecutive days, and they were subcutaneously injected with GTN (10mgkg -1 ) 30min after the last treatment, except in the normal control group. After model establishment, the behaviors of all rats, including head scratching, cage climbing, and the development of red ears were observed continuously by digital camera every 30min for 3h. Four hours after GTN treatment, all rats were anaesthetized and the blood and tissue samples were collected. Plasma calcitonin gene related to peptide (CGRP) and endothelin (ET) levels were measured using the radioimmunoassay method, and serum NO was determined by the colorimetric method. Afterwards, the brainstem tissues were dissected and washed with physiological saline, and divided evenly into two parts. One part was used to test the monoamine levels, including levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA), by the fluorometric method, and the other part was used to determine the nuclear factor kappaB (NF-κB) p65, nuclear c-fos, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), interleukin (IL)-1β (IL-1β), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) levels by Western blot analysis. In the pharmacodynamic action assay, DL (1.31 and 3.93gkg -1 ) greatly improved the abnormal behaviors of migraine rats, including head scratching and cage climbing, and the development of red ears. In the mechanism assay, compared with the control group, the plasma CGRP and serum NO levels and the brainstem 5-HT, NE and DA levels in the DL administration groups were significantly decreased; and the plasma ET levels were remarkably increased. Moreover, down-regulation of NF-κB p65, c-fos and pro-inflammatory cytokines, including iNOS, IL-1β and COX-2 in the brainstem in the DL administration groups were observed by Western blot analysis. The above results suggested that DL has a therapeutic effect on migraines, and its mechanism may be related to adjusting the level of neurotransmitters and vasoactive substances, consequently relieving neurogenic inflammation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cocrystallization out of the blue: DL-mandelic acid/ethyl-DL-mandelate cocrystal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tumanova, Natalia; Payen, Ricky; Springuel, Géraldine; Norberg, Bernadette; Robeyns, Koen; Le Duff, Cécile; Wouters, Johan; Leyssens, Tom

2017-01-01

This work focuses on a peculiar behavior of racemic mandelic acid in ethanol solution. Dissolution of racemic mandelic acid in ethanol followed by evaporation to dryness results in a DL-mandelic acid/ethyl-DL-mandelate cocrystal. This behavior indicates that racemic mandelic acid tends not only to transform into an ester in ethanol, but also to cocrystallize with untransformed acid molecules. Cocrystal formation for mandelic acid in ethanol was found to be reproducible under various conditions. DL-tropic acid and DL-phenyllactic acid that contain similar functional groups and that were tested as well, on the other hand, showed no cocrystal formation: DL-phenyllactic acid partly converted into an ester, whereas DL-tropic acid mostly recrystallized.

Racemic resolution of some DL-amino acids using Aspergillus fumigatus L-amino acid oxidase.

PubMed

Singh, Susmita; Gogoi, Binod K; Bezbaruah, Rajib L

2011-07-01

The ability of Aspergillus fumigatus L-amino acid oxidase (L-aao) to cause the resolution of racemic mixtures of DL-amino acids was investigated with DL-alanine, DL-phenylalanine, DL-tyrosine, and DL-aspartic acid. A chiral column, Crownpak CR+ was used for the analysis of the amino acids. The enzyme was able to cause the resolution of the three DL-amino acids resulting in the production of optically pure D-alanine (100% resolution), D-phenylalanine (80.2%), and D-tyrosine (84.1%), respectively. The optically pure D-amino acids have many uses and thus can be exploited industrially. This is the first report of the use of A. fumigatus L: -amino acid oxidase for racemic resolution of DL-amino acids.

Diabetes care may be improved with Steno Quality Assurance Tool--a self-assessment tool in diabetes management.

PubMed

Bjerre-Christensen, Ulla; Nielsen, Annemette Anker; Binder, Christian; Hansen, Jes B; Eldrup, Ebbe

2014-08-01

To evaluate if improvements in the quality of diabetes care in Indian clinics can be obtained by simple self-surveillance PC-based software. Nineteen Indian diabetes clinics were introduced to the principles of quality assurance (QA), and to a software program, the Steno Quality Assurance Tool (SQAT). Data was entered for an initial 3 months period. Subsequently data were analyzed by the users, who designed plans to improve indicator status and set goals for the upcoming period. A second data entry period followed after 7-9 months. QA data was analyzed from 4487 T2DM patients (baseline) and 4440 (follow-up). The average examination frequency per clinic of the following indicators increased significantly: lipid examination (72-87%) (p=0.007), foot examination (80-94%) (p=0.02), HbA1c investigation (59-77%) (p=0.006), and urine albumin excretion investigation (72-87%) (p=0.006). Outcome parameters also improved significantly: mean (SD) fasting and post prandial BG reduced from 144(16) to 132(16)mg/dl (p=0.02) and 212(24)-195(29)mg/dl (p=0.03), respectively. Systolic BP reduced from 139(6) to 133(4) (p=0.0008)mmHg and diastolic BP from 83(3) to 81(3)mmHg (p=0.002). Quality of diabetes care can be improved by applying SQAT, a QA self-surveillance software that enables documentation of changes in process and outcome indicators. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

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

PubMed Central

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

2018-01-01

A large body of research has shown superior learning rates in variable practice compared to repetitive practice. More specifically, this has been demonstrated in the contextual interference (CI) and in the differential learning (DL) approach that are both representatives of variable practice. Behavioral studies have indicate different learning processes in CI and DL. Aim of the present study was to examine immediate post-task effects on electroencephalographic (EEG) brain activation patterns after CI and DL protocols that reveal underlying neural processes at the early stage of motor consolidation. Additionally, we tested two DL protocols (gradual DL, chaotic DL) to examine the effect of different degrees of stochastic fluctuations within the DL approach with a low degree of fluctuations in gradual DL and a high degree of fluctuations in chaotic DL. Twenty-two subjects performed badminton serves according to three variable practice protocols (CI, gradual DL, chaotic DL), and a repetitive learning protocol in a within-subjects design. Spontaneous EEG activity was measured before, and immediately after each 20-min practice session from 19 electrodes. Results showed distinguishable neural processes after CI, DL, and repetitive learning. Increases in EEG theta and alpha power were obtained in somatosensory regions (electrodes P3, P7, Pz, P4, P8) in both DL conditions compared to CI, and repetitive learning. Increases in theta and alpha activity in motor areas (electrodes C3, Cz, C4) were found after chaotic DL compared to gradual DL, and CI. Anterior areas (electrodes F3, F7, Fz, F4, F8) showed increased activity in the beta and gamma bands after CI. Alpha activity was increased in occipital areas (electrodes O1, O2) after repetitive learning. Post-task EEG brain activation patterns suggest that DL stimulates the somatosensory and motor system, and engages more regions of the cortex than repetitive learning due to a tighter stimulation of the motor and somatosensory system during DL practice. CI seems to activate specifically executively controlled processing in anterior brain areas. We discuss the obtained patterns of post-training EEG traces as evidence for different underlying neural processes in CI, DL, and repetitive learning at the early stage of motor learning. PMID:29445334

Dl-3-n-Butylphthalide Inhibits NLRP3 Inflammasome and Mitigates Alzheimer's-Like Pathology via Nrf2-TXNIP-TrX Axis.

PubMed

Wang, Chun-Yan; Xu, Ye; Wang, Xu; Guo, Chuang; Wang, Tao; Wang, Zhan-You

2018-04-25

Oxidative stress and neuroinflammation play important roles in the pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), an endogenous inhibitor of antioxidant thioredoxin, is suspected to be an important modulator of oxidative stress and inflammation. However, the underlying mechanism involved in the abnormal homeostasis of TXNIP-thioredoxin (TrX) in AD pathogenesis remains unclear. Using the Swedish mutant form of APP (APPswe)/PSEN1dE9 transgenic mouse (APP/PS1) and human-derived neuronal cells as model systems, we disclosed the impairment of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-TXNIP-TrX signaling in Alzheimer's-like pathology. We observed that the immune staining of TXNIP was increased in postmortem AD brain. The chronic accumulation of inflammatory mediator in neuronal cells facilitates interactions of TXNIP-nucleotide binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family, pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) and NLRP3-ASC, which increases β-amyloid (Aβ) secretion. The antioxidant Dl-3-n-butylphthalide (Dl-NBP) is commonly used for cerebral ischemia treatment. In our study, we elucidated for new mechanisms by which Dl-NBP enhanced TrX activity, suppressed TXNIP, and ameliorated neuronal apoptosis in the APP/PS1 mouse brains. In human glioblastoma A172 cells and neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells, we delineated the Dl-NBP-mediated signaling pathways by which Dl-NBP-dependent upregulation of Nrf2 mediated the reciprocal regulation of reducing proinflammatory cytokine and inhibiting Aβ production in the glial and neuronal cells overexpressing APPswe. Our data provide a novel insight into the molecular mechanism that impairments of Nrf2-TXNIP-TrX system may be involved in the imbalance of cellular redox homeostasis and inflammatory damage in the AD brain. Dl-NBP treatment could suppress TXNIP-NLRP3 interaction and inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome activation via upregulating Nrf2. These findings may provide an instrumental therapeutic approach for AD. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 00, 000-000.

Comparison of intubation modalities in a simulated cardiac arrest with uninterrupted chest compressions.

PubMed

Tandon, Navin; McCarthy, Matthew; Forehand, Brett; Carlson, Jestin N

2014-10-01

Interruptions in chest compressions during cardiopulmonary resuscitation can negatively impact survival. Several new endotracheal intubation (ETI) techniques including video laryngoscopy may allow for ETI with minimal or no interruptions in chest compressions. We sought to determine the impact of three different ETI techniques upon time to intubation (TTI) in a simulated cardiac arrest during uninterrupted chest compression. We performed a randomised crossover study with a convenience sample of emergency physicians using three different ETI techniques: direct laryngoscopy (DL), GlideScope video laryngoscopy (GVL) and GlideScope video laryngoscopy with bougie (GVL-B). Providers performed ETI on a manikin on a hospital bed with concurrent chest compressions. Our primary outcome, TTI, was defined as the time from insertion of the laryngoscope blade until first breath. Given the correlated nature of the data, we used the paired t test to assess the differences in mean TTIs between GVL minus DL and GVL-B minus DL. We also ran the analysis stratified by provider experience. We enrolled 20 providers with a median TTI (IQR) by device of: DL 27 s (20.3, 35.4), GVL 20.6 s (17.7, 27.1) and GVL-B 60.1 s (39.1, 99). The mean GVL-DL difference was -10.1 s (-17.9-2.3) while the mean GVL-B-DL difference was 45.6 s (19.8-71.4) (p<0.001). The GVL-B required the greatest TTI across providers of varying experience levels. In this simulated model of cardiac arrest with uninterrupted chest compressions, TTI was shorter for GVL than DL while use of the GVL with bougie resulted in longer TTI. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Scaling Deep Learning workloads: NVIDIA DGX-1/Pascal and Intel Knights Landing

DOE PAGES

Gawande, Nitin A.; Daily, Jeff A.; Siegel, Charles; ...

2018-05-05

Deep Learning (DL) algorithms have become ubiquitous in data analytics. As a result, major computing vendors—including NVIDIA, Intel, AMD, and IBM—have architectural road maps influenced by DL workloads. Furthermore, several vendors have recently advertised new computing products as accelerating large DL workloads. Unfortunately, it is difficult for data scientists to quantify the potential of these different products. Here, this article provides a performance and power analysis of important DL workloads on two major parallel architectures: NVIDIA DGX-1 (eight Pascal P100 GPUs interconnected with NVLink) and Intel Knights Landing (KNL) CPUs interconnected with Intel Omni-Path or Cray Aries. Our evaluation consistsmore » of a cross section of convolutional neural net workloads: CifarNet, AlexNet, GoogLeNet, and ResNet50 topologies using the Cifar10 and ImageNet datasets. The workloads are vendor-optimized for each architecture. We use sequentially equivalent implementations to maintain iso-accuracy between parallel and sequential DL models. Our analysis indicates that although GPUs provide the highest overall performance, the gap can close for some convolutional networks; and the KNL can be competitive in performance/watt. We find that NVLink facilitates scaling efficiency on GPUs. However, its importance is heavily dependent on neural network architecture. Furthermore, for weak-scaling—sometimes encouraged by restricted GPU memory—NVLink is less important.« less

Sources and risk factors for lead exposure in indigenous children of the Peruvian Amazon, disentangling connections with oil activity.

PubMed

Anticona, Cynthia; Bergdahl, Ingvar A; San Sebastian, Miguel

2012-01-01

In the Corrientes river basin, Peruvian Amazon, lead exposure among indigenous communities was first reported in 2006. To address controversy regarding the main source of exposure, this study aimed to identify the sources and risk factors for lead exposure among children from the communities in question, and to clarify the potential relationship with oil activity. This cross-sectional study was conducted in six communities. Participants were children aged 0-17 years and their mothers. Data collection included blood lead levels (BLLs) and hemoglobin determination, a questionnaire on risk factors and environmental sampling. We used age-stratified multivariate regression models, with generalized estimating equation to account for correlation within households. Twenty-seven percent of the children had BLLs ≥10 μg/dl. Mother's BLLs ≥10 μg/dl, playing and chewing lead scraps, fishing ≥three times/week, and living in highly oil-exposed communities increased the risk of having BLLs ≥10 μg/dl. Lead concentrations in sediment, soil, dust, and fish samples were below reference values. Mother's BLLs ≥10 μg/dl, playing and chewing lead scraps to manufacture fishing sinkers were the most important risk factors for children's BLLs ≥10 μg/dl. The connection with oil activity appears to be through access to metal lead from the industry's wastes.

Scaling Deep Learning workloads: NVIDIA DGX-1/Pascal and Intel Knights Landing

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

Gawande, Nitin A.; Daily, Jeff A.; Siegel, Charles

Deep Learning (DL) algorithms have become ubiquitous in data analytics. As a result, major computing vendors—including NVIDIA, Intel, AMD, and IBM—have architectural road maps influenced by DL workloads. Furthermore, several vendors have recently advertised new computing products as accelerating large DL workloads. Unfortunately, it is difficult for data scientists to quantify the potential of these different products. Here, this article provides a performance and power analysis of important DL workloads on two major parallel architectures: NVIDIA DGX-1 (eight Pascal P100 GPUs interconnected with NVLink) and Intel Knights Landing (KNL) CPUs interconnected with Intel Omni-Path or Cray Aries. Our evaluation consistsmore » of a cross section of convolutional neural net workloads: CifarNet, AlexNet, GoogLeNet, and ResNet50 topologies using the Cifar10 and ImageNet datasets. The workloads are vendor-optimized for each architecture. We use sequentially equivalent implementations to maintain iso-accuracy between parallel and sequential DL models. Our analysis indicates that although GPUs provide the highest overall performance, the gap can close for some convolutional networks; and the KNL can be competitive in performance/watt. We find that NVLink facilitates scaling efficiency on GPUs. However, its importance is heavily dependent on neural network architecture. Furthermore, for weak-scaling—sometimes encouraged by restricted GPU memory—NVLink is less important.« less

The smooth-hound lipolytic system: Biochemical characterization of a purified digestive lipase, lipid profile and in vitro oil digestibility.

PubMed

Achouri, Neila; Smichi, Nabil; Gargouri, Youssef; Miled, Nabil; Fendri, Ahmed

2017-09-01

In order to identify fish enzymes displaying novel biochemical properties, we choose the common smooth-hound (Mustelus mustelus) as a starting biological material to characterize the digestive lipid hydrolyzing enzyme. A smooth-hound digestive lipase (SmDL) was purified from a delipidated pancreatic powder. The SmDL molecular weight was around 50kDa. Specific activities of 2200 and 500U/mg were measured at pH 9 and 40°C using tributyrin and olive oil emulsion as substrates, respectively. Unlike known mammal pancreatic lipases, the SmDL was stable at 50°C and it retained 90% of its initial activity after 15min of incubation at 60°C. Interestingly, bile salts act as an activator of the SmDL. It's worth to notice that the SmDL was also salt-tolerant since it was active in the presence of high salt concentrations reaching 0.8M. Fatty acid (FA) analysis of oil from the smooth-hound viscera showed a dominance of unsaturated ones (UFAs). Interestingly, the major n-3 fatty acids were DHA and EPA with contents of 18.07% and 6.14%, respectively. In vitro digestibility model showed that the smooth hound oil was efficiently hydrolyzed by pancreatic lipases, which suggests the higher assimilation of fish oils by consumers. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Hepatic insulin sensitivity in healthy and prediabetic subjects: from a dual- to a single-tracer oral minimal model.

PubMed

Visentin, Roberto; Dalla Man, Chiara; Basu, Rita; Basu, Ananda; Rizza, Robert A; Cobelli, Claudio

2015-07-15

Recently, a model was proposed to assess hepatic insulin sensitivity during a meal, i.e., the ability of insulin to suppress glucose production (EGP), SI (P). The model was developed on EGP data obtained from a triple-tracer meal and the tracer-to-tracee clamp technique and validated against the euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp. The aim of this study was to assess whether SI (P) can be obtained from plasma concentrations measured after a single-tracer meal by incorporating the above EGP model into the oral glucose minimal model by describing both glucose production and disposal (OMM(PD)). Triple-tracer meal data of two databases (20 healthy and 60 healthy and prediabetic subjects) were used. Virtually model-independent EGP estimates were calculated. OMM(PD) was identified on exogenous and endogenous glucose concentrations, providing indices of SI (P), disposal insulin sensitivity (SI (D)), and EGP. The model fitted the data well, and SI (P) and SI (D) were estimated with precision in both databases (SI (P) = 5.48 ± 0.54 10(-4) dl·kg(-1)·min(-1) per μU/ml and SI (D) = 9.93 ± 2.18 10(-4) dl·kg(-1)·min(-1) per μU/ml in healthy; SI (P) = 5.41 ± 3.55 10(-4) dl·kg(-1)·min(-1) per μU/ml and SI (D) = 5.34 ± 6.17 10(-4) dl·kg(-1)·min(-1) per μU/ml, in healthy and prediabetic subjects). Estimated SI (P) and that derived from the triple-tracer EGP model were very similar on average. Moreover, the time course of EGP normalized to basal EGP (EGPb), and EGP/EGPb agreed with the results obtained using the triple-tracer method. In this study, we have demonstrated that SI (P), SI (D), and EGP/EGPb time course can be estimated reliably from a single-tracer meal protocol in both healthy and prediabetic subjects. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

Dioxins, DL-PCB and NDL-PCB accumulation profiles in livers from sheep and cattle reared in North-western Italy.

PubMed

Benedetto, A; Brizio, P; Guaraldo, P; Stella, C; Cappa, C; Baioni, E; Spalenza, V; Nebbia, C; Abete, M C

2016-06-01

Products of animal origin represent the main route of human exposure to dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs (DL-compounds). Recently, concerns have been raised about ovine products, particularly the liver, in which relatively high levels of DL-compounds have been reported. We surveyed ovine and bovine livers in areas with no known sources of dioxin or DL-PCB contamination, in order to assess accumulation patterns for both DL-compounds and non-DL (NDL-) PCBs. None of the ovine and bovine samples exceeded the current Maximum Limits (MLs) for DL-compounds. Liver DL-compound TEQ concentrations were up to 5-fold higher in sheep than in cows. No statistically significant differences in total NDL-PCBs levels were found. The main contributors to TEQ levels were the Penta- and Hexa-chlorinated PCDFs and PCB 126. The results confirm the increased bioaccumulation in ovine liver towards specific DL-compounds even in ewes reared in areas with no known sources of PCDD/Fs or DL-PCBs contamination. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Modelling scenarios on feed-to-fillet transfer of dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs in future feeds to farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar).

PubMed

Berntssen, Marc H G; Sanden, Monica; Hove, Helge; Lie, Øyvind

2016-11-01

The salmon feed composition has changed the last decade with a replacement of traditionally use of fish oil and fishmeal diets with vegetable ingredients and the use decontaminated fish oils, causing reduced concentrations of dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs in farmed Norwegian Atlantic salmon. The development of novel salmon feeds has prompted the need for prediction on dioxins and dl-PCB concentrations in future farmed salmon. Prediction on fillet dioxins and dl-PCB concentrations from different feed composition scenarios are made using a simple one-compartmental transfer model based on earlier established dioxin and dl-PCB congener specific uptake and elimination kinetics rates. The model is validated with two independent feeding trials, with a significant linear correlation (r(2) = 0.96, y = 1.0x, p < 0.0001, n = 116) between observed and predicted values. Model fillet predictions are made for the following four scenarios; (1) general feed composition of 1999, (2) feed composition of 2013, (3) future feed composition with high fish oil and meal replacement, (4) future feed composition with high fish oil and meal replacement and decontaminated fish oil. Model predictions of fillet dioxin and dl-PCB concentrations from 1999 (1.05 ng WHO2005-TEQs kg(-1)ww) and 2013 (0.57 ng WHO2005-TEQs kg(-1)ww) are in line with the data observed in national surveillance programs of those years (1.1 and 0.52 ng WHO2005-TEQs kg(-1)ww, respectively). Future use of high replacement and decontaminated oils feeds gave predicted fillet concentrations of 0.27 ng WHO2005-TEQs kg(-1)ww, which is near the limit of quantification. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Is Cerebrospinal Fluid C-reactive Protein a Better Tool than Blood C-reactive Protein in Laboratory Diagnosis of Meningitis in Children?

PubMed Central

Malla, Kalpana K.; Malla, Tejesh; Rao, K. Seshagiri; Basnet, Sahisnuta; Shah, Ravi

2013-01-01

Objectives: This study aimed to test whether C-reactive protein (CRP) measurement could differentiate between different types of meningitis and become a routine test. Methods: A prospective study included 140 children admitted to Manipal Teaching Hospital, Pokhara, Nepal, between July 2009 and June 2011. The subjects had a blood test and detailed cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, including blood and CSF CRP levels. Results: Of those admitted, 31.1% had pyogenic meningitis (PM), 26.2% partially treated meningitis (PPM), 33% viral meningitis (VM), and 9.7% tubercular meningitis (TBM), with 26.4% controls. Organisms were isolated in 12.5% of the cases by blood culture and 25% of cases through CSF culture. Blood CRP was positive in all groups, with the highest values in PM (53.12 ± 28.88 mg/dl) and PPM (47.55 ± 34.34 mg/dl); this was not statistically significant (P = 0.08). The CSF CRP levels were significantly higher (P <0.001) in PM (45.75 ± 28.50 mg/dl) and PPM (23.11 ± 23.98 mg/dl). The sensitivity and specificity of blood CRP was 90.62%, 88.88%, 64.7%, 70% and 32.4%, 30.97%, 24.52%, 26.12% and that of CSF CRP was 96.87%, 66.66%, 20.58%, 10% and 74.73%, 63.71%, 50.94%, 55.35% for PM, PPM, VM and TBM, respectively. Conclusion: Because of its high sensitivity, both CSF CRP and blood CRP can be used to screen for bacterial meningitis (both PM and PPM). CSF CRP screening yielded results with a higher specificity than blood CRP; hence, it can be a supportive test along with CSF cytology, biochemistry, and microbiology for diagnosing meningitis. PMID:23573388

Differential Training Facilitates Early Consolidation in Motor Learning

PubMed Central

Henz, Diana; Schöllhorn, Wolfgang I.

2016-01-01

Current research demonstrates increased learning rates in differential learning (DL) compared to repetitive training. To date, little is known on the underlying neurophysiological processes in DL that contribute to superior performance over repetitive practice. In the present study, we measured electroencephalographic (EEG) brain activation patterns after DL and repetitive badminton serve training. Twenty-four semi-professional badminton players performed badminton serves in a DL and repetitive training schedule in a within-subjects design. EEG activity was recorded from 19 electrodes according to the 10–20 system before and immediately after each 20-min exercise. Increased theta activity was obtained in contralateral parieto-occipital regions after DL. Further, increased posterior alpha activity was obtained in DL compared to repetitive training. Results indicate different underlying neuronal processes in DL and repetitive training with a higher involvement of parieto-occipital areas in DL. We argue that DL facilitates early consolidation in motor learning indicated by post-training increases in theta and alpha activity. Further, brain activation patterns indicate somatosensory working memory processes where attentional resources are allocated in processing of somatosensory information in DL. Reinforcing a somatosensory memory trace might explain increased motor learning rates in DL. Finally, this memory trace is more stable against interference from internal and external disturbances that afford executively controlled processing such as attentional processes. PMID:27818627

A Limited Access Mouse Model of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure that Produces Long-Lasting Deficits in Hippocampal-Dependent Learning and Memory

PubMed Central

Brady, Megan L.; Allan, Andrea M.; Caldwell, Kevin K.

2013-01-01

Background It has been estimated that approximately 12% of women consume alcohol at some time during their pregnancy, and as many as 5% of children born in the United States are impacted by prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE). The range of physical, behavioral, emotional, and social dysfunctions that are associated with PAE are collectively termed fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). Methods Using a saccharin-sweetened ethanol solution, we developed a limited access model of PAE. C57BL/6J mice were provided access to a solution of either 10% (w/v) ethanol and 0.066% (w/v) saccharin or 0.066% (w/v) saccharin (control) for 4 h/d. After establishing consistent drinking, mice were mated and continued drinking during gestation. Following parturition, solutions were decreased to 0% in a stepwise fashion over a period of 6 days. Characterization of the model included measurements of maternal consumption patterns, blood ethanol levels, litter size, pup weight, maternal care, and the effects of PAE on fear-conditioned and spatial learning, and locomotor activity. Results Mothers had mean daily ethanol intake of 7.17 ± 0.17 g ethanol/kg body weight per day, with average blood ethanol concentrations of 68.5 ± 9.2 mg/dl after 2 hours of drinking and 88.3 ± 11.5 mg/dl after 4 hours of drinking. Food and water consumption, maternal weight gain, litter size, pup weight, pup retrieval times, and time on nest did not differ between the alcohol-exposed and control animals. Compared with control offspring, mice that were exposed to ethanol prenatally displayed no difference in spontaneous locomotor activity but demonstrated learning deficits in 3 hippocampal-dependent tasks: delay fear conditioning, trace fear conditioning, and the delay nonmatch to place radial-arm maze task. Conclusions These results indicate that this model appropriately mimics the human condition of PAE and will be a useful tool in studying the learning deficits seen in FASD. PMID:21933200

Evaluating the Generalization Value of Process-based Models in a Deep-in-time Machine Learning framework

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, C.; Fang, K.

2017-12-01

Deep Learning (DL) methods have made revolutionary strides in recent years. A core value proposition of DL is that abstract notions and patterns can be extracted purely from data, without the need for domain expertise. Process-based models (PBM), on the other hand, can be regarded as repositories of human knowledge or hypotheses about how systems function. Here, through computational examples, we argue that there is merit in integrating PBMs with DL due to the imbalance and lack of data in many situations, especially in hydrology. We trained a deep-in-time neural network, the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), to learn soil moisture dynamics from Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) Level 3 product. We show that when PBM solutions are integrated into LSTM, the network is able to better generalize across regions. LSTM is able to better utilize PBM solutions than simpler statistical methods. Our results suggest PBMs have generalization value which should be carefully assessed and utilized. We also emphasize that when properly regularized, the deep network is robust and is of superior testing performance compared to simpler methods.

Dictionary Learning for Data Recovery in Positron Emission Tomography

PubMed Central

Valiollahzadeh, SeyyedMajid; Clark, John W.; Mawlawi, Osama

2015-01-01

Compressed sensing (CS) aims to recover images from fewer measurements than that governed by the Nyquist sampling theorem. Most CS methods use analytical predefined sparsifying domains such as Total variation (TV), wavelets, curvelets, and finite transforms to perform this task. In this study, we evaluated the use of dictionary learning (DL) as a sparsifying domain to reconstruct PET images from partially sampled data, and compared the results to the partially and fully sampled image (baseline). A CS model based on learning an adaptive dictionary over image patches was developed to recover missing observations in PET data acquisition. The recovery was done iteratively in two steps: a dictionary learning step and an image reconstruction step. Two experiments were performed to evaluate the proposed CS recovery algorithm: an IEC phantom study and five patient studies. In each case, 11% of the detectors of a GE PET/CT system were removed and the acquired sinogram data were recovered using the proposed DL algorithm. The recovered images (DL) as well as the partially sampled images (with detector gaps) for both experiments were then compared to the baseline. Comparisons were done by calculating RMSE, contrast recovery and SNR in ROIs drawn in the background, and spheres of the phantom as well as patient lesions. For the phantom experiment, the RMSE for the DL recovered images were 5.8% when compared with the baseline images while it was 17.5% for the partially sampled images. In the patients’ studies, RMSE for the DL recovered images were 3.8%, while it was 11.3% for the partially sampled images. Our proposed CS with DL is a good approach to recover partially sampled PET data. This approach has implications towards reducing scanner cost while maintaining accurate PET image quantification. PMID:26161630

Impact of Partial-Mouth Periodontal Examination Protocols on the Association Between Gingival Bleeding and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Adolescents.

PubMed

Ediani Machado, Michely; Tomazoni, Fernanda; Ruffo Ortiz, Fernanda; Ardenghi, Thiago Machado; Zanatta, Fabricio Batistin

2017-07-01

It is not clear how using partial-mouth periodontal examination (PMPE) protocols affects estimates of the association between gingival bleeding (GB) and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). The aim of the present study is to assess impact of different PMPEs on the association between GB and OHRQoL in 12-year-old adolescents. A total of 1,134 adolescents were evaluated for clinical and subjective variables. GB was determined by full-mouth examination (FME) of six sites (disto-buccal [DB], mid-buccal [B], mesio-buccal [MB], disto-lingual [DL], mid-lingual, and mesio-lingual [ML]) and different PMPEs were calculated using a 15% cut-off point: 1) full-mouth (MB-B-DB/MB-B-DL); 2) two diagonal quadrants (six sites/MB-B-DB/MB-B-DL); 3) two randomly selected half-mouth quadrants (six sites/MB-B-DB/ MB-B-DL/MB-DB-ML-DL); and 4) the community periodontal index. OHRQoL was assessed using the Child Perceptions Questionnaire (CPQ 11-14 ). Adjusted negative binomial regression models were used to calculate the rate ratio of CPQ 11-14 scores for each PMPE. Adolescents with GB showed significantly poorer OHRQoL than their counterparts when FME was used. In contrast, more than half of PMPE protocols did not detect significant associations between GB and CPQ 11-14 scores in the adjusted analysis. Using PMPE to assess GB in adolescents significantly affects associations with OHRQoL outcomes, depending on the protocol used. PMPEs that evaluated MB-B-DL sites of randomly selected half-mouth quadrants (1 or 2 and 3 or 4) achieved results closer to those obtained with FME.

Dictionary learning for data recovery in positron emission tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valiollahzadeh, SeyyedMajid; Clark, John W., Jr.; Mawlawi, Osama

2015-08-01

Compressed sensing (CS) aims to recover images from fewer measurements than that governed by the Nyquist sampling theorem. Most CS methods use analytical predefined sparsifying domains such as total variation, wavelets, curvelets, and finite transforms to perform this task. In this study, we evaluated the use of dictionary learning (DL) as a sparsifying domain to reconstruct PET images from partially sampled data, and compared the results to the partially and fully sampled image (baseline). A CS model based on learning an adaptive dictionary over image patches was developed to recover missing observations in PET data acquisition. The recovery was done iteratively in two steps: a dictionary learning step and an image reconstruction step. Two experiments were performed to evaluate the proposed CS recovery algorithm: an IEC phantom study and five patient studies. In each case, 11% of the detectors of a GE PET/CT system were removed and the acquired sinogram data were recovered using the proposed DL algorithm. The recovered images (DL) as well as the partially sampled images (with detector gaps) for both experiments were then compared to the baseline. Comparisons were done by calculating RMSE, contrast recovery and SNR in ROIs drawn in the background, and spheres of the phantom as well as patient lesions. For the phantom experiment, the RMSE for the DL recovered images were 5.8% when compared with the baseline images while it was 17.5% for the partially sampled images. In the patients’ studies, RMSE for the DL recovered images were 3.8%, while it was 11.3% for the partially sampled images. Our proposed CS with DL is a good approach to recover partially sampled PET data. This approach has implications toward reducing scanner cost while maintaining accurate PET image quantification.

Hydration status affects urea transport across rat urothelia.

PubMed

Spector, David A; Deng, Jie; Stewart, Kerry J

2011-12-01

Although mammalian urinary tract epithelium (urothelium) is generally considered impermeable to water and solutes, recent data suggest that urine constituents may be reabsorbed during urinary tract transit and storage. To study water and solute transport across the urothelium in an in vivo rat model, we instilled urine (obtained during various rat hydration conditions) into isolated in situ rat bladders and, after a 1-h dwell, retrieved the urine and measured the differences in urine volume and concentration and total quantity of urine urea nitrogen and creatinine between instilled and retrieved urine in rat groups differing by hydration status. Although urine volume did not change >1.9% in any group, concentration (and quantity) of urine urea nitrogen in retrieved urine fell significantly (indicating reabsorption of urea across bladder urothelia), by a mean of 18% (489 mg/dl, from an instilled 2,658 mg/dl) in rats receiving ad libitum water and by a mean of 39% (2,544 mg/dl, from an instilled 6,204 mg/dl) in water-deprived rats, but did not change (an increase of 15 mg/dl, P = not significant, from an instilled 300 mg/dl) in a water-loaded rat group. Two separate factors affected urea nitrogen reabsorption rates, a urinary factor related to hydration status, likely the concentration of urea nitrogen in the instilled urine, and a bladder factor(s), also dependent on the animal's state of hydration. Urine creatinine was also absorbed during the bladder dwell, and hydration group effects on the concentration and quantity of creatinine reabsorbed were qualitatively similar to the hydration group effect on urea transport. These findings support the notion(s) that urinary constituents may undergo transport across urinary tract epithelia, that such transport may be physiologically regulated, and that urine is modified during transit and storage through the urinary tract.

Effectiveness of Learning with 3D-Lab on Omani Basic Education Students' Achievement, Attitudes and Scientific Thinking

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Musawi, Ali Al; Ambusaidi, Abdullah; Al-Balushi, Sulaiman; Al-Sinani, Mohamed; Al-Balushi, Kholoud

2017-01-01

This paper aims to measure the effectiveness of the 3DL on Omani students' acquisition of practical abilities and skills. It examines the effectiveness of the 3D-lab in science education and scientific thinking acquisition as part of a national project funded by The Research Council. Four research tools in a Pre-Post Test Control Group Design,…

A Study of Cumulative Fatigue Damage in 2011-T3 Aluminum Alloy.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-08-01

isecuippd’i one horse ow’ur %-.3riable 1ce dl r , c oW s... 21 th, a cvcltc (2aunter, ana a varialhV- eccoi., crank Lind Ollv Th dnaic oain .’S tern... iud under a microscope for circu::&rential tool m-irks and stress risers. ? he specimen was then placed In the m’nachine grips by’ positioning t

Genome-wide siRNA screen reveals a new cellular partner of NK cell receptor KIR2DL4: heparan sulfate directly modulates KIR2DL4-mediated responses

PubMed Central

Brusilovsky, Michael; Cordoba, Moti; Rosental, Benyamin; Hershkovitz, Oren; Andrake, Mark D.; Pecherskaya, Anna; Einarson, Margret B.; Zhou, Yan; Braiman, Alex

2013-01-01

KIR2DL4 (CD158d) is a distinct member of the killer cell Ig-like receptor (KIR) family in human NK cells that can induce cytokine production and cytolytic activity in resting NK cells. Soluble HLA-G, normally expressed only by fetal-derived trophoblast cells, was reported to be a ligand for KIR2DL4; however, KIR2DL4 expression is not restricted to the placenta and can be found in CD56high subset of peripheral blood NK cells. We demonstrated that KIR2DL4 can interact with alternative ligand(s), expressed by cells of epithelial or fibroblast origin. A genome-wide high-throughput siRNA screen revealed that KIR2DL4 recognition of cells surface ligand(s) is directly regulated by heparan sulfate (HS) glucosamine 3-O-sulfotransferase 3B1 (HS3ST3B1). KIR2DL4 was found to directly interact with HS/heparin, and the D0-domain of KIR2DL4 was essential for this interaction. Accordingly, exogenous HS/heparin can regulate cytokine production by KIR2DL4-expressing NK cells and HEK293T cells (HEK293T-2DL4) and induces differential localization of KIR2DL4 to rab5+ and rab7+ endosomes, thus leading to down-regulation of cytokine production and degradation of the receptor. Furthermore, we showed that intimate interaction of syndecan-4 (SDC4) HS Proteo-Glycan (HSPG) and KIR2DL4 directly affects receptor endocytosis and membrane trafficking. PMID:24127555

[Cloning and sequencing of KIR2DL1 framework gene cDNA and identification of a novel allele].

PubMed

Sun, Ge; Wang, Chang; Zhen, Jianxin; Zhang, Guobin; Xu, Yunping; Deng, Zhihui

2016-10-01

To develop an assay for cDNA cloning and haplotype sequencing of KIR2DL1 framework gene and determine the genotype of an ethnic Han from southern China. Total RNA was isolated from peripheral blood sample, and complementary DNA (cDNA) transcript was synthesized by RT-PCR. The entire coding sequence of the KIR2DL1 framework gene was amplified with a pair of KIR2DL1-specific PCR primers. The PCR products with a length of approximately 1.2 kb were then subjected to cloning and haplotype sequencing. A specific target fragment of the KIR2DL1 framework gene was obtained. Following allele separation, a wild-type KIR2DL1*00302 allele and a novel variant allele, KIR2DL1*031, were identified. Sequence alignment with KIR2DL1 alleles from the IPD-KIR Database showed that the novel allele KIR2DL1*031 has differed from the closest allele KIR2DL1*00302 by a non-synonymous mutation at CDS nt 188A>G (codon 42 GAG>GGG) in exon 4, which has caused an amino acid change Glu42Gly. The sequence of the novel allele KIR2DL1*031 was submitted to GenBank under the accession number KP025960 and to the IPD-KIR Database under the submission number IWS40001982. A name KIR2DL1*031 has been officially assigned by the World Health Organization (WHO) Nomenclature Committee. An assay for cDNA cloning and haplotype sequencing of KIR2DL1 has been established, which has a broad applications in KIR studies at allelic level.

Stochastic targeted (STAR) glycemic control: design, safety, and performance.

PubMed

Evans, Alicia; Le Compte, Aaron; Tan, Chia-Siong; Ward, Logan; Steel, James; Pretty, Christopher G; Penning, Sophie; Suhaimi, Fatanah; Shaw, Geoffrey M; Desaive, Thomas; Chase, J Geoffrey

2012-01-01

Tight glycemic control (TGC) has shown benefits but has been difficult to achieve consistently. STAR (Stochastic TARgeted) is a flexible, model-based TGC approach that directly accounts for intra- and interpatient variability with a stochastically derived maximum 5% risk of blood glucose (BG) below 72 mg/dl. This research assesses the safety, efficacy, and clinical burden of a STAR TGC controller modulating both insulin and nutrition inputs in virtual and clinical pilot trials. Clinically validated virtual trials using data from 370 patients in the SPRINT (Specialized Relative Insulin and Nutrition Titration) study were used to design the STAR protocol and test its safety, performance, and required clinical effort prior to clinical pilot trials. Insulin and nutrition interventions were given every 1-3 h as chosen by the nurse to allow them to manage workload. Interventions were designed to maximize the overlap of the model-predicted (5-95(th) percentile) range of BG outcomes with the 72-117 mg/dl band and thus provide a maximum 5% risk of BG <72 mg/dl. Interventions were calculated using clinically validated computer models of human metabolism and its variability in critical illness. Carbohydrate intake (all sources) was selected to maximize intake up to 100% of the American College of Chest Physicians/Society of Critical Care Medicine (ACCP/SCCM) goal (25 kg/kcal/h). Insulin doses were limited (8 U/h maximum), with limited increases based on current rate (0.5-2.0 U/h). Initial clinical pilot trials involved 3 patients covering ~450 h. Approval was granted by the Upper South A Regional Ethics Committee. Virtual trials indicate that STAR provides similar glycemic control performance to SPRINT with 2-3 h (maximum) measurement intervals. Time in the 72-126 mg/dl and 72-145 mg/dl bands was equivalent for all controllers, indicating that glycemic outcome differences between protocols were only shifted in this range. Safety from hypoglycemia was improved. Importantly, STAR using 2-3 h (maximum) intervention intervals reduced clinical burden up to 30%, which is clinically very significant. Initial clinical trials showed glycemic performance, safety, and management of inter- and intrapatient variability that matched or exceeded the virtual trial results. In virtual trials, STAR TGC provided tight control that maximized the likelihood of BG in a clinically specified glycemic band and reduced hypoglycemia with a maximum 5% (or lower) expected risk of light hypoglycemia (BG <72 mg/dl) via model-based management of intra- and interpatient variability. Clinical workload was self-managed and reduced up to 30% compared with SPRINT. Initial pilot clinical trials matched or exceeded these virtual results. © 2012 Diabetes Technology Society.

HLA and killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIRs) genotyping in patients with acute viral encephalitis

PubMed Central

Tuttolomondo, Antonino; Colomba, Claudia; Di Bona, Danilo; Casuccio, Alessandra; Di Raimondo, Domenico; Clemente, Giuseppe; Arnao, Valentina; Pecoraro, Rosaria; Ragonese, Paolo; Aiello, Anna; Accardi, Giulia; Maugeri, Rosario; Maida, Carlo; Simonetta, Irene; Della Corte, Vittoriano; Iacopino, Domenico Gerardo; Caruso, Calogero; Cascio, Antonio; Pinto, Antonio

2018-01-01

Introduction The HLA genes, as well as the innate immune KIR genes, are considered relevant determinants of viral outcomes but no study, to our knowledge, has evaluated their role in the clinical setting of acute viral encephalitis. Results Subjects with acute viral encephalitis in comparison to subjects without acute viral encephalitis showed a significantly higher frequency of 2DL1 KIR gene and AA KIR haplotypes and of HLA-C2 and HLA-A-Bw4 alleles. Subjects without acute viral encephalitis showed a higher frequency of interaction between KIR2DL2 and HLAC1. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed the detrimental effect of HLA-A haplotype and HLA-C1, HLA-A-BW4 HLA-B-BW4T alleles, whereas multiple logistic regression showed a protective effect of AB+BB KIR haplotype and a detrimental effect of interaction between KIR3DL1 and HLA-A-Bw4. Discussion Our findings of a lower frequency of activating receptors in patients with acute encephalitis compared to controls could result in a less efficient response of NK cells. This finding could represent a possible pathogenetic explanation of susceptibility to acute symptomatic encephalitis in patients with viral infection from potentially responsible viruses such as Herpes virus. Materials and Methods 30 Consecutive patients with symptomatic acute viral encephalitis and as controls, 36 consecutive subjects without acute encephalitis were analyzed. The following KIR genes were analyzed, KIR2DL1, 2DL2, 2DL3, 2DL5, 3DL1, 3DL2, 3DL3, 2DL4, 2DS1, 2DS2, 2DS3, 2DS4, 2DS5, 3DS1, 2 pseudogenes (2DP1 and 3DP1) and the common variants of KIR2DL5 (KIR2DL5A, KIR2DL5B). PMID:29707126

Regularized spherical polar fourier diffusion MRI with optimal dictionary learning.

PubMed

Cheng, Jian; Jiang, Tianzi; Deriche, Rachid; Shen, Dinggang; Yap, Pew-Thian

2013-01-01

Compressed Sensing (CS) takes advantage of signal sparsity or compressibility and allows superb signal reconstruction from relatively few measurements. Based on CS theory, a suitable dictionary for sparse representation of the signal is required. In diffusion MRI (dMRI), CS methods proposed for reconstruction of diffusion-weighted signal and the Ensemble Average Propagator (EAP) utilize two kinds of Dictionary Learning (DL) methods: 1) Discrete Representation DL (DR-DL), and 2) Continuous Representation DL (CR-DL). DR-DL is susceptible to numerical inaccuracy owing to interpolation and regridding errors in a discretized q-space. In this paper, we propose a novel CR-DL approach, called Dictionary Learning - Spherical Polar Fourier Imaging (DL-SPFI) for effective compressed-sensing reconstruction of the q-space diffusion-weighted signal and the EAP. In DL-SPFI, a dictionary that sparsifies the signal is learned from the space of continuous Gaussian diffusion signals. The learned dictionary is then adaptively applied to different voxels using a weighted LASSO framework for robust signal reconstruction. Compared with the start-of-the-art CR-DL and DR-DL methods proposed by Merlet et al. and Bilgic et al., respectively, our work offers the following advantages. First, the learned dictionary is proved to be optimal for Gaussian diffusion signals. Second, to our knowledge, this is the first work to learn a voxel-adaptive dictionary. The importance of the adaptive dictionary in EAP reconstruction will be demonstrated theoretically and empirically. Third, optimization in DL-SPFI is only performed in a small subspace resided by the SPF coefficients, as opposed to the q-space approach utilized by Merlet et al. We experimentally evaluated DL-SPFI with respect to L1-norm regularized SPFI (L1-SPFI), which uses the original SPF basis, and the DR-DL method proposed by Bilgic et al. The experiment results on synthetic and real data indicate that the learned dictionary produces sparser coefficients than the original SPF basis and results in significantly lower reconstruction error than Bilgic et al.'s method.

Translating effective web-based self-help for problem drinking into the real world.

PubMed

Riper, Heleen; Kramer, Jeannet; Conijn, Barbara; Smit, Filip; Schippers, Gerard; Cuijpers, Pim

2009-08-01

Drinking Less (DL) is a 24/7 free-access anonymous interactive web-based self-help intervention without therapeutic guidance for adult problem drinkers in the community. In a randomized controlled trial (referred to here as DL-RCT), DL has been shown effective in reducing risky alcohol consumption. To assess whether the findings of DL-RCT are generalizable to a naturalistic setting (DL-RW) in terms of ability to reach the target group and alcohol treatment response. Pretest-posttest study with 6-month follow-up. An online survey was conducted of 378 of the 1,625 people who used DL-RW from May to November 2007. Primary outcome measures were (1) problem drinking, defined as alcohol consumption in the previous 4 weeks averaging >21 or >14 standard units (male/female) per week or >or=6 or >or=4 units (m/f) on 1 or more days per week; and (2) mean weekly alcohol consumption. DL-RW and DL-RCT data were compared and pooled. Intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis was performed to analyze and compare changes in drinking from baseline to follow-up. In the DL-RW group, 18.8% (n = 71) were drinking successfully within the limits of the Dutch guideline for low-risk drinking (p < 0.001) 6 months after baseline (ITT). The DL-RW group also decreased its mean weekly alcohol intake by 7.4 units, t(377) = 6.67, p < 0.001, d = 0.29. Drinking reduction in DL-RW was of a similar magnitude to that in the DL-RCT condition in terms of drinking within the guideline [chi(2)(1) = 1.83, CI: 0.82-3.00, p = 0.18, RD = 0.05, OR = 1.55] and mean weekly consumption (a negligible difference of d = 0.03 in favor of DL-RW group). The results from DL-RCT and DL-RW were similar, and they demonstrate that web-based self-help without therapeutic guidance is feasible, well accepted, and effective for curbing adult problem drinking in the community.

Spontaneous resolution of binary copper(II) complexes with racemic dipeptides: crystal structures of glycyl-L-alpha-amino-n-butyrato copper(II) monohydrate, glycyl-D-valinato copper(II) hemihydrate, and glycyl-L-valinato copper(II) hemihydrate.

PubMed

Inomata, Yoshie; Yamaguchi, Takeshi; Tomita, Airi; Yamada, Dai; Howell, F Scott

2005-08-01

Copper(II) complexes with glycyl-DL-alpha-amino-n-butyric acid (H2gly-DL-but), glycyl-DL-valine (H2gly-DL-val), glycyl-DL-norleucine (H2gly-DL-norleu), glycyl-DL-threonine (H2gly-DL-thr), glycyl-DL-serine (H2gly-DL-ser), glycyl-DL-phenylalanine (H2gly-DL-phe), and glycyl-L-valine (H2gly-L-val), have been prepared and characterized by IR, powder diffuse reflection, CD and ORD spectra, and magnetic susceptibility measurements, and by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The crystal structures of the copper complex with H2gly-DL-but, the copper complex with H2gly-DL-val, and [Cu(gly-L-val)]n.0.5nH2O have been determined by a single-crystal X-ray diffraction method. As for the structure of the copper complex with H2gly-DL-but, the configuration around the asymmetric carbon atom is similar to that of [Cu(gly-L-val)]n.0.5nH2O. Therefore it is concluded that the copper complex with H2gly-DL-but is [Cu(gly-L-but)]n.nH2O. On the contrary, as for the structure of the copper complex with H2gly-DL-val, the configuration around the asymmetric carbon atom is different from that of [Cu(gly-L-val)]n.0.5nH2O. Therefore it is concluded that the copper complex with H2gly-dl-val is [Cu(gly-D-val)]n.0.5nH2O. So during the crystallization of the copper(II) complexes with H2gly-DL-but and H2gly-DL-val, spontaneous resolution has been observed; the four complexes have separated as [Cu(gly-D-but)]n.nH2O, [Cu(gly-L-but)]n.nH2O, [Cu(gly-D-val)]n.0.5nH2O, and [Cu(gly-L-val)]n.0.5nH2O, respectively. [Cu(gly-L-but)]n.nH2O is orthorhombic with the space group P2(1)2(1)2(1). [Cu(gly-D-val)]n.0.5nH2O and [Cu(gly-L-val)]n.0.5nH2O are monoclinic with the space group C2. In these complexes, the copper atom is in a square-pyramidal geometry, ligated by a peptide nitrogen atom, an amino nitrogen atom, a carboxyl oxygen atom, and a carboxyl oxygen atom and a peptide oxygen atom from neighboring molecules. So these complexes consist of a two-dimensional polymer chain bridged by a carboxyl oxygen atom and a peptide oxygen atom from neighboring molecules. The axial oxygen atom is located above the basal plane and the side chain of an amino acid is located below it. These polymer chains consist of only one or the other type of optical isomers; no racemic dipeptides are found. Therefore, spontaneous resolution has been observed in the crystallization of copper(II) complexes with H2gly-DL-but and H2gly-DL-val. The crystal structure of [Cu(gly-D-val)]n.0.5nH2O agrees almost completely with that of [Cu(gly-L-val)]n.0.5nH2O, except for the configuration around the asymmetric carbon atom.

Does Aspartic Acid Racemization Constrain the Depth Limit of the Subsurface Biosphere?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Onstott, T C.; Magnabosco, C.; Aubrey, A. D.; Burton, A. S.; Dworkin, J. P.; Elsila, J. E.; Grunsfeld, S.; Cao, B. H.; Hein, J. E.; Glavin, D. P.;

Does aspartic acid racemization constrain the depth limit of the subsurface biosphere?

PubMed

Onstott, T C; Magnabosco, C; Aubrey, A D; Burton, A S; Dworkin, J P; Elsila, J E; Grunsfeld, S; Cao, B H; Hein, J E; Glavin, D P; Kieft, T L; Silver, B J; Phelps, T J; van Heerden, E; Opperman, D J; Bada, J L

2014-01-01

Previous studies of the subsurface biosphere have deduced average cellular doubling times of hundreds to thousands of years based upon geochemical models. We have directly constrained the in situ average cellular protein turnover or doubling times for metabolically active micro-organisms based on cellular amino acid abundances, D/L values of cellular aspartic acid, and the in vivo aspartic acid racemization rate. Application of this method to planktonic microbial communities collected from deep fractures in South Africa yielded maximum cellular amino acid turnover times of ~89 years for 1 km depth and 27 °C and 1-2 years for 3 km depth and 54 °C. The latter turnover times are much shorter than previously estimated cellular turnover times based upon geochemical arguments. The aspartic acid racemization rate at higher temperatures yields cellular protein doubling times that are consistent with the survival times of hyperthermophilic strains and predicts that at temperatures of 85 °C, cells must replace proteins every couple of days to maintain enzymatic activity. Such a high maintenance requirement may be the principal limit on the abundance of living micro-organisms in the deep, hot subsurface biosphere, as well as a potential limit on their activity. The measurement of the D/L of aspartic acid in biological samples is a potentially powerful tool for deep, fractured continental and oceanic crustal settings where geochemical models of carbon turnover times are poorly constrained. Experimental observations on the racemization rates of aspartic acid in living thermophiles and hyperthermophiles could test this hypothesis. The development of corrections for cell wall peptides and spores will be required, however, to improve the accuracy of these estimates for environmental samples. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Deep learning strategy for accurate carotid intima-media thickness measurement: An ultrasound study on Japanese diabetic cohort.

PubMed

Biswas, Mainak; Kuppili, Venkatanareshbabu; Araki, Tadashi; Edla, Damodar Reddy; Godia, Elisa Cuadrado; Saba, Luca; Suri, Harman S; Omerzu, Tomaž; Laird, John R; Khanna, Narendra N; Nicolaides, Andrew; Suri, Jasjit S

2018-07-01

The carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) is an important biomarker for cardiovascular diseases and stroke monitoring. This study presents an intelligence-based, novel, robust, and clinically-strong strategy that uses a combination of deep-learning (DL) and machine-learning (ML) paradigms. A two-stage DL-based system (a class of AtheroEdge™ systems) was proposed for cIMT measurements. Stage I consisted of a convolution layer-based encoder for feature extraction and a fully convolutional network-based decoder for image segmentation. This stage generated the raw inner lumen borders and raw outer interadventitial borders. To smooth these borders, the DL system used a cascaded stage II that consisted of ML-based regression. The final outputs were the far wall lumen-intima (LI) and media-adventitia (MA) borders which were used for cIMT measurements. There were two sets of gold standards during the DL design, therefore two sets of DL systems (DL1 and DL2) were derived. A total of 396 B-mode ultrasound images of the right and left common carotid artery were used from 203 patients (Institutional Review Board approved, Toho University, Japan). For the test set, the cIMT error for the DL1 and DL2 systems with respect to the gold standard was 0.126 ± 0.134 and 0.124 ± 0.100 mm, respectively. The corresponding LI error for the DL1 and DL2 systems was 0.077 ± 0.057 and 0.077 ± 0.049 mm, respectively, while the corresponding MA error for DL1 and DL2 was 0.113 ± 0.105 and 0.109 ± 0.088 mm, respectively. The results showed up to 20% improvement in cIMT readings for the DL system compared to the sonographer's readings. Four statistical tests were conducted to evaluate reliability, stability, and statistical significance. The results showed that the performance of the DL-based approach was superior to the nonintelligence-based conventional methods that use spatial intensities alone. The DL system can be used for stroke risk assessment during routine or clinical trial modes. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Emergency department blood alcohol level associates with injury factors and six-month outcome after uncomplicated mild traumatic brain injury.

PubMed

Yue, John K; Ngwenya, Laura B; Upadhyayula, Pavan S; Deng, Hansen; Winkler, Ethan A; Burke, John F; Lee, Young M; Robinson, Caitlin K; Ferguson, Adam R; Lingsma, Hester F; Cnossen, Maryse C; Pirracchio, Romain; Korley, Frederick K; Vassar, Mary J; Yuh, Esther L; Mukherjee, Pratik; Gordon, Wayne A; Valadka, Alex B; Okonkwo, David O; Manley, Geoffrey T

2017-11-01

The relationship between blood alcohol level (BAL) and mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) remains in need of improved characterization. Adult patients suffering mTBI without intracranial pathology on computed tomography (CT) from the prospective Transforming Research and Clinical Knowledge in Traumatic Brain Injury Pilot study with emergency department (ED) Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) 13-15 and recorded blood alcohol level (BAL) were extracted. BAL≥80-mg/dl was set as proxy for excessive use. Multivariable regression was performed for patients with six-month Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended (GOSE; functional recovery) and Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale Processing Speed Index Composite Score (WAIS-PSI; nonverbal processing speed), using BAL≥80-mg/dl and <80-mg/dl cohorts, adjusting for demographic/injury factors. Overall, 107 patients were aged 42.7±16.8-years, 67.3%-male, and 80.4%-Caucasian; 65.4% had BAL=0-mg/dl, 4.6% BAL<80-mg/dl, and 30.0% BAL≥80-mg/dl (range 100-440-mg/dl). BAL differed across loss of consciousness (LOC; none: median 0-mg/dl [interquartile range (IQR) 0-0], <30-min: 0-mg/dl [0-43], ≥30-min: 224-mg/dl [50-269], unknown: 108-mg/dl [0-232]; p=0.002). GCS<15 associated with higher BAL (19-mg/dl [0-204] vs. 0-mg/dl [0-20]; p=0.013). On univariate analysis, BAL≥80-mg/dl associated with less-than-full functional recovery (GOSE≤7; 38.1% vs. 11.5%; p=0.025) and lower WAIS-PSI (92.4±12.7, 30th-percentile vs. 105.1±11.7, 63rd-percentile; p<0.001). On multivariable regression BAL≥80-mg/dl demonstrated an odds ratio of 8.05 (95% CI [1.35-47.92]; p=0.022) for GOSE≤7 and an adjusted mean decrease of 8.88-points (95% CI [0.67-17.09]; p=0.035) on WAIS-PSI. Day-of-injury BAL>80-mg/dl after uncomplicated mTBI was associated with decreased GCS score and prolongation of reported LOC. BAL may be a biomarker for impaired return to baseline function and decreased nonverbal processing speed at six-months postinjury. Future confirmatory studies are needed. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Crystal structure of the human natural killer cell inhibitory receptor KIR2DL1-HLA-Cw4 complex.

PubMed

Fan, Q R; Long, E O; Wiley, D C

2001-05-01

Inhibitory natural killer (NK) cell receptors down-regulate the cytotoxicity of NK cells upon recognition of specific class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules on target cells. We report here the crystal structure of the inhibitory human killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor 2DL1 (KIR2DL1) bound to its class I MHC ligand, HLA-Cw4. The KIR2DL1-HLA-Cw4 interface exhibits charge and shape complementarity. Specificity is mediated by a pocket in KIR2DL1 that hosts the Lys80 residue of HLA-Cw4. Many residues conserved in HLA-C and in KIR2DL receptors make different interactions in KIR2DL1-HLA-Cw4 and in a previously reported KIR2DL2-HLA-Cw3 complex. A dimeric aggregate of KIR-HLA-C complexes was observed in one KIR2DL1-HLA-Cw4 crystal. Most of the amino acids that differ between human and chimpanzee KIRs with HLA-C specificities form solvent-accessible clusters outside the KIR-HLA interface, which suggests undiscovered interactions by KIRs.

The experiment of cooperative learning model type team assisted individualization (TAI) on three-dimensional space subject viewed from spatial intelligence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manapa, I. Y. H.; Budiyono; Subanti, S.

2018-03-01

The aim of this research is to determine the effect of TAI or direct learning (DL) on student’s mathematics achievement viewed from spatial intelligence. This research was quasi experiment. The population was 10th grade senior high school students in Alor Regency on academic year of 2015/2016 chosen by stratified cluster random sampling. The data were collected through achievement and spatial intelligence test. The data were analyzed by two ways, ANOVA with unequal cell and scheffe test. This research showed that student’s mathematics achievement used in TAI had better results than DL models one. In spatial intelligence category, student’s mathematics achievement with high spatial intelligence has better result than the other spatial intelligence category and students with high spatial intelligence have better results than those with middle spatial intelligence category. At TAI, student’s mathematics achievement with high spatial intelligence has better result than those with the other spatial intelligence category and students with middle spatial intelligence have better results than students with low spatial intelligence. In DL model, student’s mathematics achievement with high and middle spatial intelligence has better result than those with low spatial intelligence, but students with high spatial intelligence and middle spatial intelligence have no significant difference. In each category of spatial intelligence and learning model, mathematics achievement has no significant difference.

Glucose determination with fiber optic spectrometers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Starke, Eva; Kemper, Ulf; Barschdorff, Dieter

1999-05-01

Noninvasive blood glucose monitoring is the aim of research activities concerning the detection of small glucose concentrations dissolved in water and blood plasma. One approach for these measurements is the exploitation of absorption bands in the near infrared. However, the strong absorption of water represents a major difficulty. Transmission measurements of glucose dissolved in water and in blood plasma in the spectral region around 1600 nm with one- beam spectrometers and a FT-IR spectrometer are discussed. The evaluation of the data is carried out using a two-layer Lambert-Beer model and neural networks. In order to reduce the dimensions of a potential measuring device, an integrated acousto-optic tunable filter (AOTF) with an Erbium doped fiber amplifier as a radiation source is used. The fiber optic components are examined concerning their suitability. The smallest concentrations of glucose dissolved in water that can be separated are approximately 50 mg/dl. In the range of 50 mg/dl to 1000 mg/dl a correlation coefficient of 0.98 between real and estimated glucose concentrations is achieved using neural networks. In blood plasma so far glucose concentrations of about 100 mg/dl can be distinguished with good accuracy.

On the optimal degree of fluctuations in practice for motor learning.

PubMed

Hossner, Ernst-Joachim; Käch, Boris; Enz, Jonas

2016-06-01

In human movement science, it is widely accepted that random practice generally enhances complex motor-skill learning compared to repetitive practice. In two experiments, a particular variability-related concept is put to empirical test, namely the concept of differencial learning (DL), which assumes (i) that learners should not be distracted from task-space exploration by corrections, and (ii) that learning is facilitated by large inter-trial fluctuations. In both experiments, the advantage of DL over repetitive learning was not statistically significant. Moreover, learning was more pronounced when participants either received corrections in addition to DL (Exp. 1) or practiced in an order in which differences between consecutive trials were relatively small (Exp. 2). These findings suggest that the positive DL effects reported in literature cannot be attributed to the reduction of feedback or to the increase of inter-trial fluctuations. These results are discussed in the light of the structural-learning approach and the two-state model of motor learning in which structure-related learning effects are distinguished from the capability to adapt to current changes. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor gene diversity in the Tibetan ethnic minority group of China.

PubMed

Zhu, Bo-feng; Wang, Hong-dan; Shen, Chun-mei; Deng, Ya-jun; Yang, Guang; Wu, Qing-ju; Xu, Peng; Qin, Hai-xia; Fan, Shuan-liang; Huang, Ping; Deng, Li-bin; Lucas, Rudolf; Wang, Zhen-Yuan

2010-11-01

The aim of this study was to analyze killer immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) gene polymorphisms in the Tibetan ethnic minority of China. To that purpose, we have studied KIR gene frequencies and genotype diversities of 16 KIR genes and three pseudogenes (2DL1, 2DL2, 2DL3, 2DL4, 2DL5A, 2DL5B, 2DS1, 2DS2, 2DS3, 2DS4*001/002, 2DS4*003-007, 2DS5, 3DL1, 3DL2, 3DL3, 3DS1, 2DP1, 3DP1*001/002/004, and 3DP1*003) in a population sample of 102 unrelated healthy individuals of the Tibetan population living in Lhasa city, Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Tibetans mainly live in "the roof of the world," the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau of China and surrounding areas stretching from central Asia in the North and West to Myanmar and mainland China in the East, and India, Nepal, and Bhutan to the south. KIR gene frequencies and statistical parameters of Tibetan ethnic minority were calculated. Fifteen KIR genes were observed in the 102 tested Tibetan individuals with different frequencies. The allelic frequencies of the 15 KIR genes ranged from 0.06 to 0.86. In addition, KIR 2DL1, 2DL4, 3DL2, and 3DL3 were found to be present in every individual. Variable gene content, together with allelic polymorphisms, can result in individualized human KIR genotypes and haplotypes, with the A haplotypes being predominantly observed. The results of tested linkage disequilibrium (LD) among KIR genes demonstrated that KIR genes present a wide range of linkage disequilibrium. Moreover, a comparison of the population data of our study with previously published population data of other ethnic groups or areas was performed. The differences of allelic frequency distribution in KIR2DL2, 2DL3, 2DL5, 3DL1, 2DS1, 2DS2, 2DS3, 3DS1, and 2DP1 were statistically significant among different populations using the statistical method of the standard χ(2) test. In conclusion, the results of the present study can be valuable for enriching the Chinese ethnical gene information resources of the KIR gene pool and for anthological studies, as well as for KIR-related disease research. Copyright © 2010. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Improved Understanding of Sources of Variability in Groundwater Sampling for Long-Term Monitoring Programs

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-02-01

20000 18200 ug/L 91 60 - 140 Styrene - DL 70 10000 10900 ug/L 109 60 - 140 1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane - DL 220 10000 12600 ug/L 126 60 - 140...L 110 60 - 140 Trichloroethene - DL2 180 10000 12600 F ug/L 126 56 - 118 Vinyl acetate - DL2 210 10000 4630 F ug/L 46 60 - 140 Vinyl chloride - DL2

The morphologic characteristics of the distolingual roots of mandibular first molars in a Taiwanese population.

PubMed

Chen, Yi-Chen; Lee, Ya-Yun; Pai, Sheng-Fang; Yang, Shue-Fen

2009-05-01

The prevalence of extra distolingual (DL) roots in mandibular first molars in Chinese population is about 20%. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the difference of root length and root curvatures between distobuccal (DB) and DL roots of three-rooted mandibular first molars in a Taiwanese (Chinese) population. Of the 293 extracted mandibular first molars, DL roots were present in 29 (9.9%) teeth. Excluding teeth with fractured DB or DL roots, 21 mandibular first molars were further investigated. DB and DL root lengths were measured from the lower level of furcation at the distal surface to the root apex. The curvature of the DL root was measured on mesial-distal and buccal-lingual radiographs by Schneider's technique. The DL roots were significantly (p < 0.001) shorter than the DB roots with an average of 1.48 +/- 0.81 mm. Most DL roots had a greater curvature in a buccal-lingual orientation (36.35 degrees +/- 9.38 degrees ) than a mesial-distal orientation (9.24 degrees +/- 6.10 degrees ) and 28.57% of the curved DL roots had the curvature at the apical one third (p < 0.001). The results of this study verified the characteristics of shorter root length and severe buccal-lingual inclination of DL roots in three-rooted mandibular first molars.

In Vivo Efficacy of Latex from Calotropis procera in Ameliorating Fever-Biochemical Characteristics and Plausible Mechanism.

PubMed

Kumar, Vijay L; Guruprasad, B; Fatmi, Syed Meraj A; Chaudhary, Priyanka; Alencar, Nylane Maria Nunes; Lima-Filho, José Vitor Moreira; Ramos, Márcio Viana

2017-07-01

Calotropis procera latex fractions possessing anti-inflammatory property were characterized for their biochemical properties, compared for their efficacy in ameliorating fever in rats and their mechanism of action was elucidated. Aqueous fraction and methanol extract (AqDL and MeDL) were derived from the dried latex (DL) and proteins were separated from the fresh latex (LP). Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis carried out under denaturing conditions showed the presence of proteins with some similarity in LP and AqDL and both of these fractions exhibited proteinase activity by gelatin zymography. A further analysis revealed that only the LP fraction possesses cysteine proteinase activity. Oral administration of both AqDL and MeDL produced a dose-dependent reduction in body temperature in rats where fever was induced by yeast and their effect was comparable to that of standard drug paracetamol while intravenous administration of LP was not so effective. Both AqDL and MeDL produced a significant reduction in the levels of TNF-α, PGE 2 , and immunoreactivity of COX-2 in the hypothalamus as compared to yeast control group. This study shows that both AqDL and MeDL, the orally effective anti-inflammatory fractions of latex, have therapeutic potential in treating various febrile conditions.

Amino Acid and Vitamin Requirements of Several Bacteroides Strains

PubMed Central

Quinto, Grace

1966-01-01

Nutritional studies were performed on nine Bacteroides strains, by use of the methodology and media of anaerobic rumen microbiology. Ristella perfoetens CCI required l-arginine hydrochloride, l-tryptophan, l-leucine, l-histidine hydrochloride, l-cysteine hydrochloride, dl-valine, dl-tyrosine, and the vitamin calcium-d-pantothenate, since scant turbidity developed in media without these nutrients. R. perfoetens was stimulated by glycine, dl-lysine hydrochloride, dl-isoleucine, l-proline, l-glutamic acid, dl-alanine, dl-phenylalanine, dl-methionine, and the vitamins nicotinamide and p-aminobenzoic acid, since maximal turbidity developed more slowly in media without these nutrients than in complete medium. Medium A-23, which was devised for R. perfoetens, contained salts, 0.0002% nicotinamide and calcium d-pantothenate, 0.00001% p-aminobenzoic acid, 0.044% l-tryptophan, 0.09% l-glutamic acid, and 0.1% of the other 13 amino acids listed above. Zuberella clostridiformis and seven strains of R. pseudoinsolita did not require vitamins, and showed no absolute requirement for any one amino acid. Various strains produced maximal turbidity more slowly in media deficient in l-proline, glycine, l-glutamic acid, dl-serine, l-histidine hydrochloride, dl-alanine, or l-cysteine hydrochloride, than in complete medium. These eight strains grew optimally in medium A-23 plus 0.1% dl-serine but without vitamins. PMID:16349673

Deep learning architectures for multi-label classification of intelligent health risk prediction.

PubMed

Maxwell, Andrew; Li, Runzhi; Yang, Bei; Weng, Heng; Ou, Aihua; Hong, Huixiao; Zhou, Zhaoxian; Gong, Ping; Zhang, Chaoyang

2017-12-28

Multi-label classification of data remains to be a challenging problem. Because of the complexity of the data, it is sometimes difficult to infer information about classes that are not mutually exclusive. For medical data, patients could have symptoms of multiple different diseases at the same time and it is important to develop tools that help to identify problems early. Intelligent health risk prediction models built with deep learning architectures offer a powerful tool for physicians to identify patterns in patient data that indicate risks associated with certain types of chronic diseases. Physical examination records of 110,300 anonymous patients were used to predict diabetes, hypertension, fatty liver, a combination of these three chronic diseases, and the absence of disease (8 classes in total). The dataset was split into training (90%) and testing (10%) sub-datasets. Ten-fold cross validation was used to evaluate prediction accuracy with metrics such as precision, recall, and F-score. Deep Learning (DL) architectures were compared with standard and state-of-the-art multi-label classification methods. Preliminary results suggest that Deep Neural Networks (DNN), a DL architecture, when applied to multi-label classification of chronic diseases, produced accuracy that was comparable to that of common methods such as Support Vector Machines. We have implemented DNNs to handle both problem transformation and algorithm adaption type multi-label methods and compare both to see which is preferable. Deep Learning architectures have the potential of inferring more information about the patterns of physical examination data than common classification methods. The advanced techniques of Deep Learning can be used to identify the significance of different features from physical examination data as well as to learn the contributions of each feature that impact a patient's risk for chronic diseases. However, accurate prediction of chronic disease risks remains a challenging problem that warrants further studies.

Analytical Performance Evaluation of Infopia Element™ Auto-coding Blood Glucose Monitoring System for Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose.

PubMed

Park, Hae-Il; Lee, Seong-Su; Son, Jang-Won; Kwon, Hee-Sun; Kim, Sung Rae; Chae, Hyojin; Kim, Myungshin; Kim, Yonggoo; Yoo, Soonjib

2016-11-01

Element™ Auto-coding Blood Glucose Monitoring System (BGMS; Infopia Co., Ltd., Anyang-si, Korea) was developed for self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG). Precision, linearity, and interference were tested. Eighty-four capillary blood samples measured by Element™ BGMS were compared with central laboratory method (CLM) results in venous serum. Accuracy was evaluated using ISO 15197:2013 criteria. Coefficients of variation (CVs; mean) were 2.4% (44.2 mg/dl), 3.7% (100.6 mg/dl), and 2.1% (259.8 mg/dl). Linearity was shown at concentrations 39.25-456.25 mg/l (y = 0.989 + 0.984x, SE = 17.63). Up to 15 mg/dl of galactose, ascorbic acid, and acetaminophen, interference > 10.4% was not observed. Element™ BGMS glucose was higher than CLM levels by 3.2 mg/dl (at 200 mg/dl) to 8.2 mg/dl (at 100 mg/dl). The minimum specification for bias (3.3%) was met at 140 and 200 mg/l glucose. In the Clarke and consensus error grids, 100% of specimens were within zone A and B. For Element™ BGMS values, 92.9% (78/84) to 94.0% (79/84) were within a 15 mg/dl (< 100 mg/dl) or 15% (> 100 mg/dl) of the average CLM value. Element™ BGMS was considered an appropriate SMBG for home use; however, the positive bias at low-to-mid glucose levels requires further improvement. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Micro-Fluidic Diffusion Coefficient Measurement

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

Forster, F.K.; Galambos, P.

1998-10-06

A new method for diffusion coefficient measurement applicable to micro-fluidics is pre- sented. The method Iltilizes an analytical model describing laminar dispersion in rect- anglllar ~llicro_channe]s. The Illethod ~vas verified throllgh measllremen~ of fllloresceill diffusivity in water and aqueolls polymer solutions of differing concentration. The diffll- sivity of flllorescein was measlmed as 0.64 x 10-gm2/s in water, 0.49 x 10-gm2/s in the 4 gm/dl dextran solution and 0.38 x 10-9n12/s in the 8 gnl/dl dextran solution.

Transport Properties of Water and Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-08-01

and dihedrals, while the intermolecular interac- tions are modeled by the long-range Lennard-Jones and Coulomb interactions. At each simulation step...in the same periodic water box, then the de - pendence of DL on the length L is given by DL ¼ D0 2:837kBT 6pgL (2) In Eq. (2), g is the shear...Renewable Sustainable Energy Rev., 16(6), pp. 3917–3938. [27] Mingzheng, Z., Guodong, X., Jian, L., Lei , C., and Lijun, Z., 2012, “Analysis of Factors

Breast Cancer Center Support Grant

DTIC Science & Technology

1999-09-01

indicator for the disease. Am J Epidemiol 1980 ; 111:301-8. (42) Dupont WD, Page DL. Breast cancer risk associated with proliferative disease, age...1993;187:75-9. (52) Burhenne HJ, Burhenne LW, Goldberg F, Hislop TG, Worth AJ, Rebbeck PM, et al. Interval breast cancers in the Screening Mammography...Basier, Ian M. Thompson Until the mid- 1980s , early detection for prostate cancer had only one tool—digital rectal examination (DRE). The tool is

Whole-proteome phylogeny of large dsDNA viruses and parvoviruses through a composition vector method related to dynamical language model

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background The vast sequence divergence among different virus groups has presented a great challenge to alignment-based analysis of virus phylogeny. Due to the problems caused by the uncertainty in alignment, existing tools for phylogenetic analysis based on multiple alignment could not be directly applied to the whole-genome comparison and phylogenomic studies of viruses. There has been a growing interest in alignment-free methods for phylogenetic analysis using complete genome data. Among the alignment-free methods, a dynamical language (DL) method proposed by our group has successfully been applied to the phylogenetic analysis of bacteria and chloroplast genomes. Results In this paper, the DL method is used to analyze the whole-proteome phylogeny of 124 large dsDNA viruses and 30 parvoviruses, two data sets with large difference in genome size. The trees from our analyses are in good agreement to the latest classification of large dsDNA viruses and parvoviruses by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV). Conclusions The present method provides a new way for recovering the phylogeny of large dsDNA viruses and parvoviruses, and also some insights on the affiliation of a number of unclassified viruses. In comparison, some alignment-free methods such as the CV Tree method can be used for recovering the phylogeny of large dsDNA viruses, but they are not suitable for resolving the phylogeny of parvoviruses with a much smaller genome size. PMID:20565983

Forecasting influenza in Hong Kong with Google search queries and statistical model fusion.

PubMed

Xu, Qinneng; Gel, Yulia R; Ramirez Ramirez, L Leticia; Nezafati, Kusha; Zhang, Qingpeng; Tsui, Kwok-Leung

2017-01-01

The objective of this study is to investigate predictive utility of online social media and web search queries, particularly, Google search data, to forecast new cases of influenza-like-illness (ILI) in general outpatient clinics (GOPC) in Hong Kong. To mitigate the impact of sensitivity to self-excitement (i.e., fickle media interest) and other artifacts of online social media data, in our approach we fuse multiple offline and online data sources. Four individual models: generalized linear model (GLM), least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA), and deep learning (DL) with Feedforward Neural Networks (FNN) are employed to forecast ILI-GOPC both one week and two weeks in advance. The covariates include Google search queries, meteorological data, and previously recorded offline ILI. To our knowledge, this is the first study that introduces deep learning methodology into surveillance of infectious diseases and investigates its predictive utility. Furthermore, to exploit the strength from each individual forecasting models, we use statistical model fusion, using Bayesian model averaging (BMA), which allows a systematic integration of multiple forecast scenarios. For each model, an adaptive approach is used to capture the recent relationship between ILI and covariates. DL with FNN appears to deliver the most competitive predictive performance among the four considered individual models. Combing all four models in a comprehensive BMA framework allows to further improve such predictive evaluation metrics as root mean squared error (RMSE) and mean absolute predictive error (MAPE). Nevertheless, DL with FNN remains the preferred method for predicting locations of influenza peaks. The proposed approach can be viewed a feasible alternative to forecast ILI in Hong Kong or other countries where ILI has no constant seasonal trend and influenza data resources are limited. The proposed methodology is easily tractable and computationally efficient.

Deep learning and model predictive control for self-tuning mode-locked lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baumeister, Thomas; Brunton, Steven L.; Nathan Kutz, J.

2018-03-01

Self-tuning optical systems are of growing importance in technological applications such as mode-locked fiber lasers. Such self-tuning paradigms require {\\em intelligent} algorithms capable of inferring approximate models of the underlying physics and discovering appropriate control laws in order to maintain robust performance for a given objective. In this work, we demonstrate the first integration of a {\\em deep learning} (DL) architecture with {\\em model predictive control} (MPC) in order to self-tune a mode-locked fiber laser. Not only can our DL-MPC algorithmic architecture approximate the unknown fiber birefringence, it also builds a dynamical model of the laser and appropriate control law for maintaining robust, high-energy pulses despite a stochastically drifting birefringence. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this method on a fiber laser which is mode-locked by nonlinear polarization rotation. The method advocated can be broadly applied to a variety of optical systems that require robust controllers.

Asian population frequencies and haplotype distribution of killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) genes among Chinese, Malay, and Indian in Singapore.

PubMed

Lee, Yi Chuan; Chan, Soh Ha; Ren, Ee Chee

2008-11-01

Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) gene frequencies have been shown to be distinctly different between populations and contribute to functional variation in the immune response. We have investigated KIR gene frequencies in 370 individuals representing three Asian populations in Singapore and report here the distribution of 14 KIR genes (2DL1, 2DL2, 2DL3, 2DL4, 2DL5, 2DS1, 2DS2, 2DS3, 2DS4, 2DS5, 3DL1, 3DL2, 3DL3, 3DS1) with two pseudogenes (2DP1, 3DP1) among Singapore Chinese (n = 210); Singapore Malay (n = 80), and Singapore Indian (n = 80). Four framework genes (KIR3DL3, 3DP1, 2DL4, 3DL2) and a nonframework pseudogene 2DP1 were detected in all samples while KIR2DS2, 2DL2, 2DL5, and 2DS5 had the greatest significant variation across the three populations. Fifteen significant linkage patterns, consistent with associations between genes of A and B haplotypes, were observed. Eighty-four distinct KIR profiles were determined in our populations, 38 of which had not been described in other populations. KIR haplotype studies were performed using nine Singapore Chinese families comprising 34 individuals. All genotypes could be resolved into corresponding pairs of existing haplotypes with eight distinct KIR genotypes and eight different haplotypes. The haplotype A2 with frequency of 63.9% was dominant in Singapore Chinese, comparable to that reported in Korean and Chinese Han. The A haplotypes predominate in Singapore Chinese, with ratio of A to B haplotypes of approximately 3:1. Comparison with KIR frequencies in other populations showed that Singapore Chinese shared similar distributions with Chinese Han, Japanese, and Korean; Singapore Indian was found to be comparable with North Indian Hindus while Singapore Malay resembled the Thai.

KIR3DL2 binds to HLA-B27 dimers and free heavy chains more strongly than other HLA class I and promotes the expansion of T cells in ankylosing spondylitis

PubMed Central

Wong-Baeza, Isabel; Ridley, Anna; Shaw, Jackie; Hatano, Hiroko; Rysnik, Oliwia; McHugh, Kirsty; Piper, Christopher; Brackenbridge, Simon; Fernandes, Ricardo; Chan, Anthoni; Bowness, Paul; Kollnberger, Simon

2013-01-01

1Abstract The Human Leukocyte Antigen HLA-B27(B27) is strongly associated with the spondyloarthritides. B27 can be expressed at the cell surface of antigen presenting cells (APC) as both classical β2m-associated B27 and as B27 free heavy chain forms (FHC) including disulphide-bonded heavy chain homodimers (termed B272). B27 FHC forms but not classical B27 bind to KIR3DL2. HLA-A3 which is not associated with spondyloarthritis (SpA) is also a ligand for KIR3DL2. Here we show that B272 and B27 FHC bind more strongly to KIR3DL2 than other HLA-class I, including HLA-A3. B272 tetramers bound KIR3DL2 transfected cells more strongly than HLA-A3. KIR3DL2Fc bound to HLA-B27-transfected cells more strongly than to cells transfected with other HLA-class I. KIR3DL2Fc pulled down multimeric, dimeric and monomeric free heavy chains from HLA-B27 expressing cell lines. Binding to B272 and B27 FHC stimulated greater KIR3DL2 phosphorylation than HLA-A3. B272 and B27 FHC stimulated KIR3DL2CD3ε–transduced T cell IL-2 production to a greater extent than control HLA-class I. KIR3DL2 binding to B27 inhibited NK IFNγ secretion and promoted greater survival of KIR3DL2+CD4 T and NK cells than binding to other HLA-class I. KIR3DL2+ T cells from B27+SpA patients proliferated more in response to antigen presented by syngeneic APC than the same T cell subset from healthy and disease controls. Our results suggest that expansion of KIR3DL2-expressing leukocytes observed in B27+ SpA may be explained by the stronger interaction of KIR3DL2 with B27 FHC. PMID:23440420

Activation‐Induced Killer Cell Immunoglobulin‐like Receptor 3DL2 Binding to HLA–B27 Licenses Pathogenic T Cell Differentiation in Spondyloarthritis

PubMed Central

Ridley, Anna; Hatano, Hiroko; Wong‐Baeza, Isabel; Shaw, Jacqueline; Matthews, Katherine K.; Al‐Mossawi, Hussein; Ladell, Kristin; Price, David A.; Bowness, Paul

2016-01-01

Objective In the spondyloarthritides (SpA), increased numbers of CD4+ T cells express killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptor 3DL2 (KIR‐3DL2). The aim of this study was to determine the factors that induce KIR‐3DL2 expression, and to characterize the relationship between HLA–B27 and the phenotype and function of KIR‐3DL2–expressing CD4+ T cells in SpA. Methods In total, 34 B27+ patients with SpA, 28 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls (20 B27− and 8 B27+), and 9 patients with rheumatoid arthritis were studied. KIR-3DL2 expression and other phenotypic characteristics of peripheral blood and synovial fluid CD4+ T cells were studied by flow cytometry, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and Western blotting. T cell receptor clonality was determined by template‐switch anchored reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and sequencing analysis. Cytokines were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Results Cellular activation induced KIR‐3DL2 expression on both naive and effector CD4+ T cells. KIR‐3DL2 binding to B27+ cells promoted expression of KIR‐3DL2, the Th17‐specific transcription factor retinoic acid receptor–related orphan nuclear receptor γt, and the antiapoptotic factor B cell lymphoma 2. KIR‐3DL2+CD4+ T cells in patients with ankylosing spondylitis were oligoclonal and enriched for markers of T cell activation and for the gut homing receptor CCR9. In the presence of B27+ antigen‐presenting cells, KIR‐3DL2+CD4+ T cells produced less interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) but more IL‐17. This effect was blocked by HC10, an antibody that inhibits the binding of KIR‐3DL2 to B27 heavy chains. Conclusion KIR‐3DL2 binding to HLA–B27 licenses Th17 cell differentiation in SpA. These findings raise the therapeutic potential of targeting HLA–B27–KIR‐3DL2 interactions for the treatment of B27+ patients with SpA. PMID:26841353

KIR3DL2 binds to HLA-B27 dimers and free H chains more strongly than other HLA class I and promotes the expansion of T cells in ankylosing spondylitis.

PubMed

Wong-Baeza, Isabel; Ridley, Anna; Shaw, Jackie; Hatano, Hiroko; Rysnik, Oliwia; McHugh, Kirsty; Piper, Christopher; Brackenbridge, Simon; Fernandes, Ricardo; Chan, Anthoni; Bowness, Paul; Kollnberger, Simon

2013-04-01

The human leukocyte Ag HLA-B27 (B27) is strongly associated with the spondyloarthritides. B27 can be expressed at the cell surface of APC as both classical β2-microglobulin-associated B27 and B27 free H chain forms (FHC), including disulfide-bonded H chain homodimers (termed B27(2)). B27 FHC forms, but not classical B27, bind to KIR3DL2. HLA-A3, which is not associated with spondyloarthritis (SpA), is also a ligand for KIR3DL2. In this study, we show that B27(2) and B27 FHC bind more strongly to KIR3DL2 than other HLA-class I, including HLA-A3. B27(2) tetramers bound KIR3DL2-transfected cells more strongly than HLA-A3. KIR3DL2Fc bound to HLA-B27-transfected cells more strongly than to cells transfected with other HLA-class I. KIR3DL2Fc pulled down multimeric, dimeric, and monomeric FHC from HLA-B27-expressing cell lines. Binding to B27(2) and B27 FHC stimulated greater KIR3DL2 phosphorylation than HLA-A3. B27(2) and B27 FHC stimulated KIR3DL2CD3ε-transduced T cell IL-2 production to a greater extent than control HLA-class I. KIR3DL2 binding to B27 inhibited NK IFN-γ secretion and promoted greater survival of KIR3DL2(+) CD4 T and NK cells than binding to other HLA-class I. KIR3DL2(+) T cells from B27(+) SpA patients proliferated more in response to Ag presented by syngeneic APC than the same T cell subset from healthy and disease controls. Our results suggest that expansion of KIR3DL2-expressing leukocytes observed in B27(+) SpA may be explained by the stronger interaction of KIR3DL2 with B27 FHC.

The Gamma Gap and All-Cause Mortality

PubMed Central

Juraschek, Stephen P.; Moliterno, Alison R.; Checkley, William; Miller, Edgar R.

2015-01-01

Background The difference between total serum protein and albumin, i.e. the gamma gap, is a frequently used clinical screening measure for both latent infection and malignancy. However, there are no studies defining a positive gamma gap. Further, whether it is an independent risk factor of mortality is unknown. Methods and Findings This study examined the association between gamma gap, all-cause mortality, and specific causes of death (cardiovascular, cancer, pulmonary, or other) in 12,260 participants of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 1999–2004. Participants had a comprehensive metabolic panel measured, which was linked with vital status data from the National Death Index. Cause of death was based on ICD10 codes from death certificates. Analyses were performed with Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for mortality risk factors. The mean (SE) age was 46 (0.3) years and the mean gamma gap was 3.0 (0.01) g/dl. The population was 52% women and 10% black. During a median follow-up period of 4.8 years (IQR: 3.3 to 6.2 years), there were 723 deaths. The unadjusted 5-year cumulative incidences across quartiles of the gamma gap (1.7–2.7, 2.8–3.0, 3.1–3.2, and 3.3–7.9 g/dl) were 5.7%, 4.2%, 5.5%, and 7.8%. After adjustment for risk factors, participants with a gamma gap of ≥3.1 g/dl had a 30% higher risk of death compared to participants with a gamma gap <3.1 g/dl (HR: 1.30; 95%CI: 1.08, 1.55; P = 0.006). Gamma gap (per 1.0 g/dl) was most strongly associated with death from pulmonary causes (HR 2.22; 95%CI: 1.19, 4.17; P = 0.01). Conclusions The gamma gap is an independent risk factor for all-cause mortality at values as low as 3.1 g/dl (in contrast to the traditional definition of 4.0 g/dl), and is strongly associated with death from pulmonary causes. Future studies should examine the biologic pathways underlying these associations. PMID:26629820

A monoclonal antibody, DL10, which recognizes a sugar moiety of MHC class I antigens expressed on NK cells, NK+ T cells, and granulocytes in humans.

PubMed

Shirai, K; Watanabe, H; Weerasinghe, A; Sakai, T; Sekikawa, H; Abo, T

1997-11-01

One mAb, DL10, was established from mice injected with dolphin lymphocytes. In addition to its reactivity against all dolphin lymphocytes, it reacted with some human leukocytes, including NK cells, NK+ T cells, and granulocytes. When its reactivity was examined in various animals, bovine, ovine, and equine leukocytes were DL10+. Murine, rat, and canine leukocytes were DL10-. Although the reactivity of DL10+ was similar to those of CD56 and CD57 antigens in humans, the actual molecules it recognized were different. Thus, all reactivity of DL10 disappeared after treatment of cells with glycopeptidase or after culture of cells with tunicamycin. Furthermore, the immunoprecipitation method revealed that DL10 indirectly recognized the heavy chain (45kD) of MHC class I antigen in humans and animals. Considering data from analysis of the N-terminal amino acid sequence of the DL10 molecule and the HLA typing of reactive cells, DL10 recognized a sugar moiety of some monomorphic MHC antigens and polymorphic MHC antigens such as HLA-B60 and -B61. If the donors are HLA-B60- and -B61 (> 80% in Japan and > 95% in the United States), DL10 would appear to be a very useful agent for the detection of pan-NK+ T cells.

Protective effect of latex of Calotropis procera in Freund's Complete Adjuvant induced monoarthritis.

PubMed

Kumar, V L; Roy, S

2009-01-01

The protective effect of latex of Calotropis procera in Freund's Complete Adjuvant (FCA) induced monoarticular arthritis was evaluated in rats. Arthritis was induced by a single intra-articular injection of 0.1 mL of 0.1% FCA in the right ankle joint. The effect of dried latex (DL, 200 and 400 mg/kg) and its methanol extract (MeDL, 50 and 500 mg/kg) following oral administration was evaluated on joint inflammation, hyperalgesia, locomotor function and histology at the time of peak inflammation. The effects of DL and MeDL were compared with antiinflammatory drugs phenylbutazone (100 mg/kg), prednisolone (20 mg/kg), rofecoxib (20 and 100 mg/kg) and immuno-suppressant methotrexate (0.3 mg/kg). Daily oral administration of DL and its methanol extract (MeDL) produced a significant reduction in joint inflammation (about 50% and 80% inhibition) and associated hyperalgesia. The antihyperalgesic effect of MeDL was comparable to that of rofecoxib. Both DL and MeDL produced a marked improvement in the motility and stair climbing ability of the rats. The histological analysis of the arthritic joint also revealed significant reduction in oedema and cellular infiltration by MeDL that was comparable to that of rofecoxib. Thus, our study suggests that the latex of C. procera has the potential to be used as an antiarthritic agent. Copyright 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The potential use of novel chitosan-coated deformable liposomes in an ocular drug delivery system.

PubMed

Chen, Hongdan; Pan, Hao; Li, Panpan; Wang, Hui; Wang, Xin; Pan, Weisan; Yuan, Yue

2016-07-01

In this study, novel chitosan-coated deformable liposomes (DL-CS) were proposed as an ocular drug delivery system to prolong pre-corneal retention, and improve transcorneal penetration and absorption. Flurbiprofen-loaded deformable liposomes (FP-DL) were prepared by a modified ethanol injection method and then coated with chitosan. Both DL and DL-CS exhibited a homogeneous particle size distribution, high encapsulation efficiency and good stability. After coating with 0.1% CS, the zeta potential was shifted from negative to positive. The apparent permeability coefficient of FP-DL-0.1% CS evaluated using isolated rabbit corneas was 1.29-, 1.95- and 4.59- fold greater than that of uncoated FP-DL, conventional liposomes and FP solution (P<0.01), respectively. The in vivo pre-corneal retention time and elimination dynamics were assessed using gamma scintigraphy technology. The area under the remaining activity-time of FP-DL-0.1% CS was prolonged 2.84- and 1.53-fold compared with that of the FP solution and FP-DL groups, respectively. Moreover, the ocular irritation test in vivo revealed that DL-0.1% CS produced no ocular damage or abnormal clinical signs. These results indicate that DL-CS appears to be a novel ophthalmic drug delivery strategy with the potential to overcome the limitations of conventional eye drops. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison between McMaster and Mini-FLOTAC methods for the enumeration of Eimeria maxima oocysts in poultry excreta.

PubMed

Bortoluzzi, C; Paras, K L; Applegate, T J; Verocai, G G

2018-04-30

Monitoring Eimeria shedding has become more important due to the recent restrictions to the use of antibiotics within the poultry industry. Therefore, there is a need for the implementation of more precise and accurate quantitative diagnostic techniques. The objective of this study was to compare the precision and accuracy between the Mini-FLOTAC and the McMaster techniques for quantitative diagnosis of Eimeria maxima oocyst in poultry. Twelve pools of excreta samples of broiler chickens experimentally infected with E. maxima were analyzed for the comparison between Mini-FLOTAC and McMaster technique using, the detection limits (dl) of 23 and 25, respectively. Additionally, six excreta samples were used to compare the precision of different dl (5, 10, 23, and 46) using the Mini-FLOTAC technique. For precision comparisons, five technical replicates of each sample (five replicate slides on one excreta slurry) were read for calculating the mean oocyst per gram of excreta (OPG) count, standard deviation (SD), coefficient of variation (CV), and precision of both aforementioned comparisons. To compare accuracy between the methods (McMaster, and Mini-FLOTAC dl 5 and 23), excreta from uninfected chickens was spiked with 100, 500, 1,000, 5,000, or 10,000 OPG; additional samples remained unspiked (negative control). For each spiking level, three samples were read in triplicate, totaling nine reads per spiking level per technique. Data were transformed using log10 to obtain normality and homogeneity of variances. A significant correlation (R = 0.74; p = 0.006) was observed between the mean OPG of the McMaster dl 25 and the Mini-FLOTAC dl 23. Mean OPG, CV, SD, and precision were not statistically different between the McMaster dl 25 and Mini-FLOTAC dl 23. Despite the absence of statistical difference (p > 0.05), Mini-FLOTAC dl 5 showed a numerically lower SD and CV than Mini-FLOTAC dl 23. The Pearson correlation coefficient revealed significant and positive correlation among the four dl (p ≤ 0.05). In the accuracy study, it was observed that the Mini-FLOTAC dl 5 and 23 were more accurate than the McMaster for 100 OPG, and the Mini-FLOTAC dl 23 had the highest accuracy for 500 OPG. The McMaster and Mini-FLOTAC dl 23 techniques were more accurate than the Mini-FLOTAC dl 5 for 5,000 OPG, and both dl of the Mini-FLOTAC were less accurate for 10,000 OPG counts than the McMaster technique. However, the overall accuracy of the Mini-FLOTAC dl 23 was higher than the McMaster and Mini-FLOTAC dl 5 techniques. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Patient-Specific Deep Architectural Model for ECG Classification

PubMed Central

Luo, Kan; Cuschieri, Alfred

2017-01-01

Heartbeat classification is a crucial step for arrhythmia diagnosis during electrocardiographic (ECG) analysis. The new scenario of wireless body sensor network- (WBSN-) enabled ECG monitoring puts forward a higher-level demand for this traditional ECG analysis task. Previously reported methods mainly addressed this requirement with the applications of a shallow structured classifier and expert-designed features. In this study, modified frequency slice wavelet transform (MFSWT) was firstly employed to produce the time-frequency image for heartbeat signal. Then the deep learning (DL) method was performed for the heartbeat classification. Here, we proposed a novel model incorporating automatic feature abstraction and a deep neural network (DNN) classifier. Features were automatically abstracted by the stacked denoising auto-encoder (SDA) from the transferred time-frequency image. DNN classifier was constructed by an encoder layer of SDA and a softmax layer. In addition, a deterministic patient-specific heartbeat classifier was achieved by fine-tuning on heartbeat samples, which included a small subset of individual samples. The performance of the proposed model was evaluated on the MIT-BIH arrhythmia database. Results showed that an overall accuracy of 97.5% was achieved using the proposed model, confirming that the proposed DNN model is a powerful tool for heartbeat pattern recognition. PMID:29065597

Model-Based Sensor-Augmented Pump Therapy

PubMed Central

Grosman, Benyamin; Voskanyan, Gayane; Loutseiko, Mikhail; Roy, Anirban; Mehta, Aloke; Kurtz, Natalie; Parikh, Neha; Kaufman, Francine R.; Mastrototaro, John J.; Keenan, Barry

2013-01-01

Background In insulin pump therapy, optimization of bolus and basal insulin dose settings is a challenge. We introduce a new algorithm that provides individualized basal rates and new carbohydrate ratio and correction factor recommendations. The algorithm utilizes a mathematical model of blood glucose (BG) as a function of carbohydrate intake and delivered insulin, which includes individualized parameters derived from sensor BG and insulin delivery data downloaded from a patient’s pump. Methods A mathematical model of BG as a function of carbohydrate intake and delivered insulin was developed. The model includes fixed parameters and several individualized parameters derived from the subject’s BG measurements and pump data. Performance of the new algorithm was assessed using n = 4 diabetic canine experiments over a 32 h duration. In addition, 10 in silico adults from the University of Virginia/Padova type 1 diabetes mellitus metabolic simulator were tested. Results The percentage of time in glucose range 80–180 mg/dl was 86%, 85%, 61%, and 30% using model-based therapy and [78%, 100%] (brackets denote multiple experiments conducted under the same therapy and animal model), [75%, 67%], 47%, and 86% for the control experiments for dogs 1 to 4, respectively. The BG measurements obtained in the simulation using our individualized algorithm were in 61–231 mg/dl min–max envelope, whereas use of the simulator’s default treatment resulted in BG measurements 90–210 mg/dl min–max envelope. Conclusions The study results demonstrate the potential of this method, which could serve as a platform for improving, facilitating, and standardizing insulin pump therapy based on a single download of data. PMID:23567006

A closed-loop artificial pancreas using a proportional integral derivative with double phase lead controller based on a new nonlinear model of glucose metabolism.

PubMed

Abbes, Ilham Ben; Richard, Pierre-Yves; Lefebvre, Marie-Anne; Guilhem, Isabelle; Poirier, Jean-Yves

2013-05-01

Most closed-loop insulin delivery systems rely on model-based controllers to control the blood glucose (BG) level. Simple models of glucose metabolism, which allow easy design of the control law, are limited in their parametric identification from raw data. New control models and controllers issued from them are needed. A proportional integral derivative with double phase lead controller was proposed. Its design was based on a linearization of a new nonlinear control model of the glucose-insulin system in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients validated with the University of Virginia/Padova T1DM metabolic simulator. A 36 h scenario, including six unannounced meals, was tested in nine virtual adults. A previous trial database has been used to compare the performance of our controller with their previous results. The scenario was repeated 25 times for each adult in order to take continuous glucose monitoring noise into account. The primary outcome was the time BG levels were in target (70-180 mg/dl). Blood glucose values were in the target range for 77% of the time and below 50 mg/dl and above 250 mg/dl for 0.8% and 0.3% of the time, respectively. The low blood glucose index and high blood glucose index were 1.65 and 3.33, respectively. The linear controller presented, based on the linearization of a new easily identifiable nonlinear model, achieves good glucose control with low exposure to hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. © 2013 Diabetes Technology Society.

HIV-1 Control by NK Cells via Reduced Interaction between KIR2DL2 and HLA-C∗12:02/C∗14:03.

PubMed

Lin, Zhansong; Kuroki, Kimiko; Kuse, Nozomi; Sun, Xiaoming; Akahoshi, Tomohiro; Qi, Ying; Chikata, Takayuki; Naruto, Takuya; Koyanagi, Madoka; Murakoshi, Hayato; Gatanaga, Hiroyuki; Oka, Shinichi; Carrington, Mary; Maenaka, Katsumi; Takiguchi, Masafumi

2016-11-22

Natural killer (NK) cells control viral infection in part through the interaction between killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) and their human leukocyte antigen (HLA) ligands. We investigated 504 anti-retroviral (ART)-free Japanese patients chronically infected with HIV-1 and identified two KIR/HLA combinations, KIR2DL2/HLA-C ∗ 12:02 and KIR2DL2/HLA-C ∗ 14:03, that impact suppression of HIV-1 replication. KIR2DL2 + NK cells suppressed viral replication in HLA-C ∗ 14:03 + or HLA-C ∗ 12:02 + cells to a significantly greater extent than did KIR2DL2 - NK cells in vitro. Functional analysis showed that the binding between HIV-1-derived peptide and HLA-C ∗ 14:03 or HLA-C ∗ 12:02 influenced KIR2DL2 + NK cell activity through reduced expression of the peptide-HLA (pHLA) complex on the cell surface (i.e., reduced KIR2DL2 ligand expression), rather than through reduced binding affinity of KIR2DL2 to the respective pHLA complexes. Thus, KIR2DL2/HLA-C ∗ 12:02 and KIR2DL2/HLA-C ∗ 14:03 compound genotypes have protective effects on control of HIV-1 through a mechanism involving KIR2DL2-mediated NK cell recognition of virus-infected cells, providing additional understanding of NK cells in HIV-1 infection. Copyright © 2016 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Synthesis and Hydrolytic Degradation of Substituted Poly(DL-Lactic Acid)s

PubMed Central

Tsuji, Hideto; Eto, Takehiko; Sakamoto, Yuzuru

2011-01-01

Non-substituted racemic poly(DL-lactic acid) (PLA) and substituted racemic poly(DL-lactic acid)s or poly(DL-2-hydroxyalkanoic acid)s with different side-chain lengths, i.e., poly(DL-2-hydroxybutanoic acid) (PBA), poly(DL-2-hydroxyhexanoic acid) (PHA), and poly(DL-2-hydroxydecanoic acid) (PDA) were synthesized by acid-catalyzed polycondensation of DL-lactic acid (LA), DL-2-hydroxybutanoic acid (BA), DL-2-hydroxyhexanoic acid (HA), and DL-2-hydroxydecanoic acid (DA), respectively. The hydrolytic degradation behavior was investigated in phosphate-buffered solution at 80 and 37 °C by gravimetry and gel permeation chromatography. It was found that the reactivity of monomers during polycondensation as monitored by the degree of polymerization (DP) decreased in the following order: LA > DA > BA > HA. The hydrolytic degradation rate traced by DP and weight loss at 80 °C decreased in the following order: PLA > PDA > PHA > PBA and that monitored by DP at 37 °C decreased in the following order: PLA > PDA > PBA > PHA. LA and PLA had the highest reactivity during polymerization and hydrolytic degradation rate, respectively, and were followed by DA and PDA. BA, HA, PBA, and PHA had the lowest reactivity during polymerization and hydrolytic degradation rate. The findings of the present study strongly suggest that inter-chain interactions play a major role in the reactivity of non-substituted and substituted LA monomers and degradation rate of the non-substituted and substituted PLA, along with steric hindrance of the side chains as can be expected. PMID:28824149

Physics of the current injection process during localized helicity injection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hinson, Edward Thomas

An impedance model has been developed for the arc-plasma cathode electron current source used in localized helicity injection tokamak startup. According to this model, a potential double layer (DL) is established between the high-density arc plasma (narc ˜ 1021 m-3) in the electron source, and the less-dense external tokamak edge plasma (nedge ˜ 10 18 m-3) into which current is injected. The DL launches an electron beam at the applied voltage with cross-sectional area close to that of the source aperture: Ainj ≈ 2 cm 2. The injected current, Iinj, increases with applied voltage, Vinj, according to the standard DL scaling, Iinj ˜ V(3/2/ inj), until the more restrictive of two limits to beam density nb arises, producing Iinj ˜ V(1/2/inj), a scaling with beam drift velocity. For low external tokamak edge density nedge, space-charge neutralization of the intense electron beam restricts the injected beam density to nb ˜ nedge. At high Jinj and sufficient edge density, the injected current is limited by expansion of the DL sheath, which leads to nb ˜ narc. Measurements of narc, Iinj , nedge, Vinj, support these predicted scalings, and suggest narc as a viable control actuator for the source impedance. Magnetic probe signals ≈ 300 degrees toroidally from the injection location are consistent with expectations for a gyrating, coherent electron beam with a compact areal cross-section. Technological development of the source has allowed an extension of the favorable Iinj ˜ V(1/2/inj) to higher power without electrical breakdown.

Investigation of the influence of the composition on mechanical properties poly(glycolide-DL-lactide)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baikin, A. S.; Sevostyanov, M. A.; Nasakina, E. O.; Sergienko, K. V.; Kaplan, M. A.; Konushkin, S. V.; Kolmakova, A. A.; Yakubov, A. D.; Kolmakov, A. G.

2018-04-01

In this paper we describe the creation of films from poly (glycolide-DL-lactide). Studied the mechanical properties of developed polymer films of poly (glycolide-DL-lactide). The effect of the molecular weight of poly (glycolide-DL-lactide) on the mechanical properties of the resulting polymer films is shown. The dependence of the mechanical properties of poly (glycolide-DL-lactide) films on the polymer concentration in chloroform was studied. The possibility of creating biodegradable films with specified mechanical properties is shown.

Direct Loan Update, 2002-2003. EDExpress Training. Participant Guide.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Office of Student Financial Assistance (ED), Washington, DC.

This participant guide is an update to basic training in the Direct Loan (DL) portion of the EDExpress system designed for financial aid professionals who have already participated in the basic training. The first session considers new aspects of DL processing, focusing on DL process changes and EDExpress DL changes. Session 2 contains three…

Thermochemistry of the Dissolution of Dipeptides Containing DL-α-Alanine in Aqueous Solutions of Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate at 298.15 K

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smirnov, V. I.; Badelin, V. G.

2018-05-01

Enthalpies of the dissolution of DL-α-alanylglycine (AlaGly), DL-α-alanyl-DL-α-alanine (AlaAla), DL-α-alanyl-DL-α-valine (AlaVal), and DL-α-alanyl-DL-norleucine (AlaNln) in an aqueous solution of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) at SDS concentration of m = 0-0.07 mol kg-1 and temperature T = 298.15 K are measured via calorimetry. The standard values of the enthalpy of dissolution (Δsol H m ) and the transfer of dipeptides (Δtr H m ) from water to aqueous SDS solutions are calculated using the experimental data. The dependences of Δsol H m and Δtr H m the SDS concentration at a constant concentration of dipeptide are established. Thermochemical characteristics of the transfer of AlaGly, AlaAla, AlaVal, and AlaNln in the investigated range of SDS concentrations are compared. The results are interpreted by considering ion-ion, ion-polar, and hydrophobic-hydrophobic interactions between SDS and dipeptide molecules.

Stereospecificity of mushroom tyrosinase immobilized on a chiral and a nonchiral support.

PubMed

Marín-Zamora, María Elisa; Rojas-Melgarejo, Francisco; García-Canovas, Francisco; García-Ruiz, Pedro Antonio

2007-05-30

Mushroom tyrosinase was immobilized from an extract onto glass beads covered with the cross-linked totally cinnamoylated derivates of d-sorbitol (sorbitol cinnamate) and glycerine (glycerine cinnamate). The enzyme was immobilized onto the support by direct adsorption, and the quantity of immobilized tyrosinase was higher for sorbitol cinnamate, the support with the higher number of esterified hydroxyls per unit of monosacharide, than for glycerine cinnamate. The results obtained from the stereospecificity study of the monophenolase and diphenolase activity of immobilized mushroom tyrosinase are reported. The enantiomers L-tyrosine, DL-tyrosine, D-tyrosine, L-dopa, DL-dopa, D-dopa, L-alpha-methyldopa, DL-alpha-methyldopa, L-isoprenaline, DL-isoprenaline, L-adrenaline, DL-adrenaline, L-noradrenaline, and D-noradrenaline were assayed with tyrosinase immobilized on a chiral support (sorbitol cinnamate), whereas L-tyrosine, DL-tyrosine, D-tyrosine, L-dopa, DL-dopa, D-dopa, L-alpha-methyldopa, and DL-alpha-methyldopa were assayed with tyrosinase immobilized on a nonchiral support (glycerine cinnamate). The same Vmax(app) values for each series of enantiomers were obtained. However, the Km(app) values were different, the l isomers showing lower values than the dl isomers, whereas the highest Km(app) value was obtained with d isomers. No difference was observed in the stereospecificity of tyrosinase immobilized on a chiral (sorbitol cinnamate) or nonchiral (glycerine cinnamate) support.

Can PEP-3 Provide a Cognitive Profile in Children with ASD? A Comparison Between the Developmental Ages of PEP-3 and IQ of Leiter-R.

PubMed

De Giacomo, Andrea; Craig, Francesco; Cristella, Arcangelo; Terenzio, Vanessa; Buttiglione, Maura; Margari, Lucia

2016-11-01

The assessment of the intelligence quotient (IQ) in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is important to plan a detailed therapeutic-educative programme. The aim of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of the Psychoeducational Profile-third edition (PEP-3) to estimate the general cognitive development of children with ASD. We recruited 30 children with ASD assessed with the Leiter International Performance Scale-Revised (Leiter-R) and the PEP-3. We compared the IQ of the Leiter-R with the developmental level (DL) of PEP-3. The findings showed a significant positive correlation between IQ with DL of the cognitive verbal/pre-verbal (P = 0.0005), DL of the area of expressive language (P = 0.0004), DL of the area of receptive language (P = 0.0001), DL of fine motor (P = 0.0066), DL of gross motor (P = 0.0217), DL of visuo-motor imitation (P = 0.02), DL of communication (P = 0.0001) and DL of motor (P = 0.0063). These findings show that the DLs could be considered as indicators of cognitive functioning in ASD. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Development of Long-Circulating pH-Sensitive Liposomes to Circumvent Gemcitabine Resistance in Pancreatic Cancer Cells.

PubMed

Xu, Hongtao; Paxton, James W; Wu, Zimei

2016-07-01

To develop pH-sensitive liposomes (PSL) containing a high content of gemcitabine; and to investigate whether drug loading (DL) would alter the in vitro and pharmacokinetic properties. PSL with a high DL were obtained using a modified small-volume incubation method. The DL effects on drug release rate and in vitro cytotoxicity of PSL were evaluated using MIA PaCa-2 pancreatic cancer cells and their pharmacokinetics investigated in rats. The highest DL of 4.5 ± 0.1% was achieved for gemcitabine in PSL with 145 ± 5 nm diameter. DL did not alter the in vitro release rate from PSL. The IC50 (48 h) of PSL (DL 0.5 and 4.5%) and non pH-sensitive liposomes (NPSL, DL 4.2%) were 1.1 ± 0.1, 0.7 ± 0.1 and 37.0 ± 7.5 μM, respectively. The PSL resulted in a 4.2-fold increase in its elimination half-life (6.2 h) compared to gemcitabine solution (1.4 h) in rats. No significant difference in pharmacokinetic parameters was observed between the two PSL (DL 0.5 and 4.5%). The PSL offered advantages over NPSL in restoring the sensitivity of pancreatic cancer cells to gemcitabine without requiring a high DL. DL in the PSL did not alter release rate, cytotoxicity or their long-circulating properties. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

Hematologic and serum biochemical reference intervals for Florida panthers.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dunbar, M.R.; Nol, P.; Linda, S.B.

1997-01-01

Ninety-four blood samples were collected from 48 (29 males and 19 females) free-ranging Florida panthers (Felis concolor coryi) captured in southern Florida (USA) from 1983 to 1994 for routine hematological and serum biochemical analysis. Florida panthers in the northern portion of their range had significantly higher red blood cell (mean +/- SD = 7.923 x 10(6) +/- 0.854 x 10(6)/microliter), hemoglobin (12.53 +/- 1.66 g/dl), and packed cell volume (36.97 +/- 4.27%) values compared to those of panthers localized in more southern parts of Florida (7.148 x 10(6) +/- 1.045 x 10(6)/microliter, 11.60 +/- 1.62 g/dl, and 34.82 +/- 5.99%, respectively). Adults had significantly higher mean serum total protein (7.50 +/- 0.59 g/dl) and packed cell volume (36.90 +/- 4.97%) values than juveniles (6.88 +/- 0.49 g/dl and 34.54 +/- 5.30%). However, mean serum albumin concentrations were significantly higher in juveniles (3.80 +/- 0.26 g/dl) when compared to adult values (3.58 +/- 0.26 g/dl). Mean serum calcium concentrations were significantly higher in juveniles (10.33 +/- 0.39 mg/dl) than in adults (9.66 +/- 0.45 mg/dl). Additionally, mean serum iron concentrations were significantly higher in those panthers of intergrade genetic stock compared to values in those of authentic genetic stock (105.6 +/- 72.1 micrograms/dl versus 59.3 +/- 19.7 micrograms/dl, respectively).

Management of anaemia in haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients (chapter 8).

PubMed

Richardson, Donald; Hodsman, Alex; van Schalkwyk, Dirk; Tomson, Charlie; Warwick, Graham

2007-08-01

Forty-one percent of UK patients commence RRT with an Hb < 10.0 g/dl. The mean Hb at commencement of RRT is 10.3 g/dl. Eighty-five percent of patients on dialysis in the UK have an Hb > or = 10.0 g/dl by 6 months after commencement of RRT. The median Hb on haemodialysis in the UK is 11.8 g/dl with an IQR of 10.7-12.8 g/dl. Eighty-six percent of haemodialysis patients in the UK have a Hb > or = 10.0 g/dl. The median Hb on peritoneal dialysis in the UK is 12.0 g/dl with an IQR of 11.0-12.9 g/dl. Ninety percent of peritoneal dialysis patients in the UK have an Hb > or = 10.0 g/dl. In the UK, 49% of patients on PD and 48% of patients on haemodialysis have an Hb between 10.5-12.5 g/dl. The median ferritin in UK haemodialysis patients is 413 microg/l (IQR 262-623), 95% of UK haemodialysis patients have a ferritin > or =100 microg/l. The median ferritin in UK PD patients is 256 microg/l (IQR 147-421), 86% of UK peritoneal dialysis patients have a ferritin > or = 100 microg/l. A higher proportion of HD patients than PD patients receive ESA therapy (88% vs 76%). The ESA dose is higher for HD than PD patients (9204 vs 6080 IU/week).

Transmission of the Diachasmimorpha longicaudata rhabdovirus (DlRhV) to wasp offspring: an ultrastructural analysis.

PubMed

Lawrence, Pauline O; Matos, Luis F

2005-02-01

During oviposition, the parasitic wasp Diachasmimorpha longicaudata introduces an entomopoxvirus (DlEPV) and a rhabdovirus (DlRhV) into larvae of its tephritid fruit fly host Anastrepha suspensa. DlEPV and DlRhV replicate, respectively, in host hemocytes and epidermal cells. Both viruses, like many beneficial viruses of parasitic wasps, are retained in all wasp generations but their avenue(s) of transmission are unknown. This study tests the hypothesis that DlRhV is transmitted transovarially or through larval feeding on infected host hemolymph. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed no virions in pre-vitellogenic or vitellogenic ova, or in the lateral oviduct of D. longicaudata females. However, numerous virions occurred in subchorionic regions of 33-36-h-old oviposited eggs. This suggests that DlRhV is introduced into the egg either as (a) intact virions after chorionogenesis but prior to oviposition and/or as (b) unencapsidated RNA molecules, undetectable by TEM in pre-vitellogenic ova, that subsequently replicate and assemble into mature virions. DlRhV particles also occurred in the midgut lumen of 20-24-h-old wasp first instars, suggesting that they were ingested. These virions may have been released from the egg into the hemolymph during hatching or may have come from virions introduced by the female wasp directly into the host, separate from the egg. DlRhV particles were also evident in the intracellular vesicles and intercellular spaces of the larval midgut. Taken together, these data support the hypothesis that DlRhV is transovarially transmitted as virions and/or as unencapsidated RNA. Further studies are needed to determine whether the DlRhV that ultimately resides within the female wasp's accessory gland filaments is the progeny of the virus from the egg and/or larval midgut cells.

Serum 3,3'-L-diiodothyronine, a direct radioimmunoassay in human serum: method and clinical results. [/sup 125/I tracer technique

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

Burger, A.; Sakoloff, C.

1977-09-01

A specific radioimmunoassay for 3,3'-diiodothyronine (T/sub 2/) is described which is capable of detecting as little as 1.3 ng/dl. The antiserum recognizes mainly T/sub 2/; biliary conjugates of T/sub 2/ bind slightly to the antibody. The intraassay and interassay coefficients of variation were, respectively, 5.7% and 13.1%. T/sub 2/ was detected in the serum of hypothyroid patients treated with triiodothyronine (T/sub 3/) and in euthyroid subjects treated with reverse triiodothyronine (rT/sub 3/). These results suggest that both T/sub 3/ and rT/sub 3/ are deiodinated to T/sub 2/. Serum concentrations of T/sub 2/ in normal subjects decreased with age. Between 20more » and 40 years the mean concentration was 4.3 +- 2.0 ng/dl (2 SD), between 41 and 60 years it varied from 1.9 to 5.8 ng/dl (3.8 +- 0.3 ng/dl, SE) and in elderly subjects have 60 years concentrations varied from unmeasurable to 4 ng/dl (2.9 +- 0.4 ng/dl, SE). Low serum T/sub 2/ concentrations were found in anorexia nervosa (2.5 +- 0.3 ng/dl, SE). In hypothyroidism the serum concentrations were low or unmeasurable. As most of the hypothyroid subjects were elderly their serum T/sub 2/ concentrations overlapped with the low values found in the elderly euthyroid subjects. In classical hyperthyroidism serum T/sub 2/ concentrations were greatly increased (3.3 to 31 ng/dl (11.8 +- 2.7 ng/dl, SE) but in ''T/sub 3/ toxicosis'' the concentrations were only modestly increased (2.4 to 8.8 ng/dl, 5.2 +- 0.8 ng/dl, SE).« less

HISTOCOMPATIBILITY STUDIES IN A CLOSELY BRED COLONY OF DOGS

PubMed Central

Dausset, Jean; Rapaport, Felix T.; Cannon, Frances D.; Ferrebee, Joseph W.

1971-01-01

The segregation of the canine DL-A leukocyte group antigen(s) b, c, d, e, f, g, h, k, l, and m has been traced in 141 consecutive matings in the Cooperstown Colony of beagles. All of the leukocyte antigen(s) were regularly transmitted en bloc from parent to offspring, with no instance of independent segregation. A total of 23 haplotypes, including six different DL-A antigen patterns (gl, bkhfm, bkcd, e, be, fgl) was observed. 31 different DL-A phenotypes were observed in a population of 100 mongrel dogs. A number of statistically significant positive and negative associations between individual DL-A antigenic components occurred in this population. The results support the concept of the DL-A system as a complex immunogenetic system governed by a single region (or locus) of an autosomal pair of chromosomes. Studies of skin, kidney, heart, and liver allografts in the Cooperstown Colony indicated that the longest allograft survivals occur under genetically and serologically defined conditions of donor-recipient DL-A compatibility. Skin and renal allografts generally behaved in parallel fashion, while cardiac allografts survived for longer periods of time (MST = 47.1 days) than kidneys (MST = 28.1 days) or skin (MST = 25.1 days) under conditions of DL-A identity. Heart transplants were rejected at a more rapid rate than kidney, however, in DL-A-incompatible donor-recipient combinations. Liver transplants were accorded the longest survival time (MST = 76.2 days) under conditions of DL-A identity, but were rejected at a rapid rate (MST = 5 days) in DL-A-incompatible nonlittermate donor-recipient pairs. The results provide further evidence that the DL-A system is the principal system of histocompatibility in the canine species. The differences in survival of different organs under similar conditions of donor-recipient DL-A compatibility suggest, however, the existence of a number of unknown variables which may also be capable of significantly affecting allograft behavior. PMID:4939370

Influence of biological factors on lipid and fibrinogen measurements in young men. An epidemiological study in 2009 recruits.

PubMed

Pitsavos, C; Skoumas, J; Dernellis, J; Toutouza, M; Doulalas, A; Stefanadis, C; Toutouzas, P

1998-11-01

The aim of the present study was to detect significant relationships between lipid and fibrinogen measurements and several biological factors in young men. Medical history was obtained, and plasma lipids, lipoprotein (a) and fibrinogen levels were measured in 2009 male Greek army recruits (mean age 22.37+/-3.03 years) not taking any drugs. Plasma levels were as follows: total cholesterol, 171+/-34 mg x dl(-1), low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, 111+/-34 mg x dl(-1), high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, 45+/-10 mg x dl(1), and triglycerides, 74+/-32 mg x dl(-1). Lipoprotein (a) and fibrinogen were 18+/-13 and 278+/-67 mg x dl(-1). The atherosclerotic index, calculated as the ratio of total cholesterol/HDL, was 4+/-1. Analysis of multivariate models that included potentially confounding factors revealed the following: body mass index, season of year during which blood examinations were performed, alcohol consumption, and place of residence were found to be significantly associated with plasma levels of total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, fibrinogen and the atherosclerotic index in the pooled population. Season and physical activity were significantly associated with HDL-cholesterol, whereas season and family history of acute myocardial infarction were associated with triglycerides levels. Body mass index, family history of myocardial infarction and physical activity were associated with lipoprotein (a). Body mass index, season, alcohol consumption and place of residence are markers of plasma lipid profile and fibrinogen in young men. A family history of acute myocardial infarction and physical activity are related to lipoprotein (a).

Activation-Induced Killer Cell Immunoglobulin-like Receptor 3DL2 Binding to HLA-B27 Licenses Pathogenic T Cell Differentiation in Spondyloarthritis.

PubMed

Ridley, Anna; Hatano, Hiroko; Wong-Baeza, Isabel; Shaw, Jacqueline; Matthews, Katherine K; Al-Mossawi, Hussein; Ladell, Kristin; Price, David A; Bowness, Paul; Kollnberger, Simon

2016-04-01

In the spondyloarthritides (SpA), increased numbers of CD4+ T cells express killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor 3DL2 (KIR-3DL2). The aim of this study was to determine the factors that induce KIR-3DL2 expression, and to characterize the relationship between HLA-B27 and the phenotype and function of KIR-3DL2-expressing CD4+ T cells in SpA. In total, 34 B27+ patients with SpA, 28 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (20 B27- and 8 B27+), and 9 patients with rheumatoid arthritis were studied. KIR-3DL2 expression and other phenotypic characteristics of peripheral blood and synovial fluid CD4+ T cells were studied by flow cytometry, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and Western blotting. T cell receptor clonality was determined by template-switch anchored reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and sequencing analysis. Cytokines were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cellular activation induced KIR-3DL2 expression on both naive and effector CD4+ T cells. KIR-3DL2 binding to B27+ cells promoted expression of KIR-3DL2, the Th17-specific transcription factor retinoic acid receptor-related orphan nuclear receptor γt, and the antiapoptotic factor B cell lymphoma 2. KIR-3DL2+CD4+ T cells in patients with ankylosing spondylitis were oligoclonal and enriched for markers of T cell activation and for the gut homing receptor CCR9. In the presence of B27+ antigen-presenting cells, KIR-3DL2+CD4+ T cells produced less interleukin-2 (IL-2) but more IL-17. This effect was blocked by HC10, an antibody that inhibits the binding of KIR-3DL2 to B27 heavy chains. KIR-3DL2 binding to HLA-B27 licenses Th17 cell differentiation in SpA. These findings raise the therapeutic potential of targeting HLA-B27-KIR-3DL2 interactions for the treatment of B27+ patients with SpA. © 2016 The Authors. Arthritis & Rheumatology published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the American College of Rheumatology.

Effects of homocysteine and its related compounds on oxygen consumption of the rat heart tissue homogenate: the role of different gasotransmitters.

PubMed

Uzelac, Jovana Jakovljević; Stanić, Marina; Krstić, Danijela; Čolović, Mirjana; Djurić, Dragan

2017-11-29

The objective of this study was to investigate in vitro effects of 10 µM DL-homocysteine (DL-Hcy), DL-homocysteine thiolactone-hydrochloride (DL-Hcy TLHC), and L-homocysteine thiolactone-hydrochloride (L-Hcy TLHC) on the oxygen consumption of rat heart tissue homogenate, as well as the involvement of the gasotransmitters NO, H 2 S and CO in the effects of the most toxic homocysteine compound, DL-Hcy TLHC. The possible contribution of the gasotransmitters in these effects was estimated by using the appropriate inhibitors of their synthesis (N ω -nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), DL-propargylglycine (DL-PAG), and zinc protoporphyrin IX (ZnPPR IX), respectively). The oxygen consumption of rat heart tissue homogenate was measured by Clark/type oxygen electrode in the absence and presence of the investigated compounds. All three homocysteine-based compounds caused a similar decrease in the oxygen consumption rate compared to control: 15.19 ± 4.01%, 12.42 ± 1.01%, and 16.43 ± 4.52% for DL-Hcy, DL-Hcy TLHC, or L-Hcy TLHC, respectively. All applied inhibitors of gasotransmitter synthesis also decreased the oxygen consumption rate of tissue homogenate related to control: 13.53 ± 1.35% for L-NAME (30 µM), 5.32 ± 1.23% for DL-PAG (10 µM), and 5.56 ± 1.39% for ZnPPR IX (10 µM). Simultaneous effect of L-NAME (30 µM) or ZnPPR IX (10 µM) with DL-Hcy TLHC (10 µM) caused a larger decrease of oxygen consumption compared to each of the substances individually. However, when DL-PAG (10 µM) was applied together with DL-Hcy TLHC (10 µM), it attenuated the effect of DL-Hcy TLHC from 12.42 ± 1.01 to 9.22 ± 1.58%. In conclusion, cardiotoxicity induced by Hcy-related compounds, which was shown in our previous research, could result from the inhibition of the oxygen consumption, and might be mediated by the certain gasotransmitters.

Are there sex differences in the capillary blood volume and diffusing capacity response to exercise?

PubMed

Bouwsema, Melissa M; Tedjasaputra, Vincent; Stickland, Michael K

2017-03-01

Previous work suggests that women may exhibit a greater respiratory limitation in exercise compared with height-matched men. Diffusion capacity (Dl CO ) increases with incremental exercise, and the smaller lungs of women may limit membrane diffusing capacity (Dm) and pulmonary capillary blood volume (Vc) in response to the increased oxygen demand. We hypothesized that women would have lower Dl CO , Dl CO relative to cardiac output (Dl CO /Q̇), Dm, Vc, and pulmonary transit time, secondary to lower Vc at peak exercise. Sixteen women (112 ± 12% predicted relative V̇o 2peak ) and sixteen men (118 ± 22% predicted relative V̇o 2peak ) were matched for height and weight. Hemoglobin-corrected diffusing capacity (Dl CO ), Vc, and Dm were determined via the multiple-[Formula: see text] Dl CO technique at rest and during incremental exercise up to 90% of V̇o 2peak Both groups increased Dl CO , Vc, and Dm with exercise intensity, but women had 20% lower Dl CO ( P < 0.001), 18% lower Vc ( P = 0.002), and 22% lower Dm ( P < 0.001) compared with men across all workloads, and neither group exhibited a plateau in Vc. When expressed relative to alveolar volume (Va), the between-sex difference was eliminated. The drop in Dl CO /Q̇ was proportionally less in women than men, and mean pulmonary transit time did not drop below 0.3 s in either group. Women demonstrate consistently lower Dl CO , Vc, and Dm compared with height-matched men during exercise; however, these differences disappear with correction for lung size. These results suggest that after differences in lung volume are accounted for there is no intrinsic sex difference in the Dl CO , Vc, or Dm response to exercise. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Women demonstrate lower diffusing capacity-to-cardiac output ratio (Dl CO /Q̇), pulmonary capillary blood volume (Vc), and membrane diffusing capacity (Dm) compared with height-matched men during exercise. However, these differences disappear after correction for lung size. The drop in Dl CO /Q̇ was proportionally less in women, and pulmonary transit time did not drop below 0.3 s in either group. After differences in lung volume are accounted for, there is no intrinsic sex difference in Dl CO , Vc, or Dm response to exercise. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

A Deep Learning Algorithm of Neural Network for the Parameterization of Typhoon-Ocean Feedback in Typhoon Forecast Models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Guo-Qing; Xu, Jing; Wei, Jun

2018-04-01

Two algorithms based on machine learning neural networks are proposed—the shallow learning (S-L) and deep learning (D-L) algorithms—that can potentially be used in atmosphere-only typhoon forecast models to provide flow-dependent typhoon-induced sea surface temperature cooling (SSTC) for improving typhoon predictions. The major challenge of existing SSTC algorithms in forecast models is how to accurately predict SSTC induced by an upcoming typhoon, which requires information not only from historical data but more importantly also from the target typhoon itself. The S-L algorithm composes of a single layer of neurons with mixed atmospheric and oceanic factors. Such a structure is found to be unable to represent correctly the physical typhoon-ocean interaction. It tends to produce an unstable SSTC distribution, for which any perturbations may lead to changes in both SSTC pattern and strength. The D-L algorithm extends the neural network to a 4 × 5 neuron matrix with atmospheric and oceanic factors being separated in different layers of neurons, so that the machine learning can determine the roles of atmospheric and oceanic factors in shaping the SSTC. Therefore, it produces a stable crescent-shaped SSTC distribution, with its large-scale pattern determined mainly by atmospheric factors (e.g., winds) and small-scale features by oceanic factors (e.g., eddies). Sensitivity experiments reveal that the D-L algorithms improve maximum wind intensity errors by 60-70% for four case study simulations, compared to their atmosphere-only model runs.

Asymptotic tracking and disturbance rejection of the blood glucose regulation system.

PubMed

Ashley, Brandon; Liu, Weijiu

2017-07-01

Type 1 diabetes patients need external insulin to maintain blood glucose within a narrow range from 65 to 108 mg/dl (3.6 to 6.0 mmol/l). A mathematical model for the blood glucose regulation is required for integrating a glucose monitoring system into insulin pump technology to form a closed-loop insulin delivery system on the feedback of the blood glucose, the so-called "artificial pancreas". The objective of this paper is to treat the exogenous glucose from food as a glucose disturbance and then develop a closed-loop feedback and feedforward control system for the blood glucose regulation system subject to the exogenous glucose disturbance. For this, a mathematical model for the glucose disturbance is proposed on the basis of experimental data, and then incorporated into an existing blood glucose regulation model. Because all the eigenvalues of the disturbance model have zero real parts, the center manifold theory is used to establish blood glucose regulator equations. We then use their solutions to synthesize a required feedback and feedforward controller to reject the disturbance and asymptotically track a constant glucose reference of 90  mg/dl. Since the regulator equations are nonlinear partial differential equations and usually impossible to solve analytically, a linear approximation solution is obtained. Our numerical simulations show that, under the linear approximate feedback and feedforward controller, the blood glucose asymptotically tracks its desired level of 90 mg/dl approximately. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Early Glucose Derangement Detected by Continuous Glucose Monitoring and Progression of Liver Fibrosis in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: An Independent Predictive Factor?

PubMed

Schiaffini, Riccardo; Liccardo, Daniela; Alisi, Anna; Benevento, Danila; Cappa, Marco; Cianfarani, Stefano; Nobili, Valerio

2016-01-01

Glucose derangement has been reported to increase oxidative stress, one of the most important factors underlying the progression of hepatic fibrosis in adults with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). To date, careful evaluation of the glucose profile in pediatric NAFLD has not been performed. A total of 30 severely obese children (15 males; mean age 12.87 ± 2.19 years) with biopsy-proven NAFLD were enrolled in this study from September to December 2013. All patients underwent anthropometric and laboratory evaluation, including the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Our study reveals some differences between OGTT and CGM in detecting NAFLD children with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). OGTT showed 2 (6.67%) patients with IFG and 1 (3.34%) with IGT, while CGM showed 5 (16.67%) patients with IFG and 6 (20%) with IGT. The daily blood glucose profile positively correlated with the baseline blood glucose (r = 0.39, p = 0.04) and the homeostatic model assessment (r = 0.56, p = 0.05). A positive correlation between hyperglycemia and liver fibrosis was found (r = 0.65, p < 0.05). Mean glucose values (F3-F4 group: 163.2 ± 35.92 mg/dl vs. F1 group: 136.58 ± 46.83 mg/dl and F2 group: 154.12 ± 22.51 mg/dl) and the difference between the minimum and maximum blood glucose levels (F3-F4 group: 110.21 ± 25.26 mg/dl vs. F1 group: 91.67 ± 15.97 mg/dl and F2 group: 92 ± 15.48 mg/dl) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the F3-F4 group compared to the F1 and F2 groups. Glucose profile derangement as detected by CGM is associated with the severity of hepatic fibrosis in children with NAFLD. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Association between serum levels of high sensitive C-reactive protein and inflammation activity in chronic gastritis patients.

PubMed

Rahmani, Asghar; Moradkhani, Atefeh; Hafezi Ahmadi, Mohammad Reza; Jafari Heirdarlo, Ali; Abangah, Ghobad; Asadollahi, Khairollah; Sayehmiri, Kourosh

2016-01-01

Gastritis is an important premalignant lesion and recent studies suggested a production of inflammatory cytokine-like C-reactive protein during gastritis. This study aimed to determine any relationship between high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and inflammation activity among patients with gastritis. Demographic and clinical variables of participants were collected by a validated questionnaire. Using histology of the gastric mucosa, Helicobacter pylori status was investigated and serum concentrations of hs-CRP were measured among dyspeptic patients. Correlation between hs-CRP serum levels and inflammation activities was evaluated by logistic regression analysis. The relation between active inflammation and other variables was evaluated by logic link function model. Totally 239 patients (56.6% female) were analysed. The prevalence of mild, moderate and severe inflammation activities was 66.5%, 23.8% and 9.6% respectively. Mean ± SD of hs-CRP among men and women were 2.85 ± 2.84 mg/dl and 2.80 ± 4.80 mg/dl (p = 0.047) respectively. Mean ± SD of hs-CRP among patients with H. pylori infection, gland atrophy, metaplasia and dysplasia were 2.83 ± 3.80 mg/dl, 3.52 ± 5.1 mg/dl, 2.22 ± 2.3 mg/dl and 5.3 ± 5.04 mg/dl respectively. Relationship between hs-CRP and inflammation activities (p < 0.01) was significant. A significant relationship between dysplasia and hs-CRP (p < 0.04) was revealed. A significant relationship between age and hs-CRP was detected (p < 0.05). Although serum hs-CRP is not a specific biomarker for gastritis, elevated hs-CRP levels may be considered as a predictive marker of changes in gastric mucosa and a promising therapeutic target for patients with gastritis.

Levels of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, dibenzofurans and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls in placentas from the Spanish INMA birth cohort study.

PubMed

Fernandez, Mariana F; Parera, Jordi; Arrebola, Juan P; Marina, Loreto Santa; Vrijheid, Martine; Llop, Sabrina; Abalos, Manoli; Tardon, Adonina; Castaño, Argelia; Abad, Esteban; Olea, Nicolas

2012-12-15

Because fetuses are considered significantly more sensitive to various environment toxicants, there is a need for continuous biomonitoring of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls PCBs (DL-PCBs) to assess their impact on this susceptible population. The aim of this study was to assess the concentration of PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs in placenta samples from women participating in the Spanish Environment and Childhood (INMA) birth cohort study and to evaluate whether maternal and child characteristics predict placenta concentrations of these pollutants. The presence of PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs was investigated in 50 placenta samples selected at random in the recruitment period 2000-2008. Multivariable regression models were constructed. Mothers had a mean age at delivery of 30.7 years (18.0-38.0 years), pre-pregnancy BMI of 23.3 kg/m² (18.0-40.2 kg/m²), and 31% were smokers. Median total concentrations of PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs were 6.9 pg WHO-TEQ/g lipid and 2.1 pg WHO-TEQ/g lipid, respectively. In comparison to the few previous studies in placenta, total TEQ levels were among the lowest recorded in comparable general populations. The congener distribution pattern and the frequencies and concentrations of PCDD/F and DL-PCB congeners were similar to previous reports in placenta. PCDD/F and DL-PCB exposure was related to the age of the mother and the year of the delivery. Although placental concentrations cannot be considered wholly appropriate predictors for evaluating fetal exposure to these contaminants, they can provide a good indication of both maternal and infant prenatal and postnatal exposure and can be used as a proxy for fetal exposure. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A laboratory study for assessing speech privacy in a simulated open-plan office.

PubMed

Lee, P J; Jeon, J Y

2014-06-01

The aim of this study is to assess speech privacy in open-plan office using two recently introduced single-number quantities: the spatial decay rate of speech, DL(2,S) [dB], and the A-weighted sound pressure level of speech at a distance of 4 m, L(p,A,S,4) m [dB]. Open-plan offices were modeled using a DL(2,S) of 4, 8, and 12 dB, and L(p,A,S,4) m was changed in three steps, from 43 to 57 dB.Auditory experiments were conducted at three locations with source–receiver distances of 8, 16, and 24 m, while background noise level was fixed at 30 dBA.A total of 20 subjects were asked to rate the speech intelligibility and listening difficulty of 240 Korean sentences in such surroundings. The speech intelligibility scores were not affected by DL(2,S) or L(p,A,S,4) m at a source–receiver distance of 8 m; however, listening difficulty ratings were significantly changed with increasing DL(2,S) and L(p,A,S,4) m values. At other locations, the influences of DL(2,S) and L(p,A,S,4) m on speech intelligibility and listening difficulty ratings were significant. It was also found that the speech intelligibility scores and listening difficulty ratings were considerably changed with increasing the distraction distance (r(D)). Furthermore, listening difficulty is more sensitive to variations in DL(2,S) and L(p,A,S,4) m than intelligibility scores for sound fields with high speech transmission performances. The recently introduced single-number quantities in the ISO standard, based on the spatial distribution of sound pressure level, were associated with speech privacy in an open-plan office. The results support single-number quantities being suitable to assess speech privacy, mainly at large distances. This new information can be considered when designing open-plan offices and making acoustic guidelines of open-plan offices.

Performance Analysis of Digital Los Link, Manila Embassy - Santa Rita, Philippines.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-12-01

Rate = 26 Mbs 17 17 • I, 102 99 PEETANT. HEIGHT AT SNART 505 103 99.99 RECEIVE EN ANTENN HEIGHT AT NL MAS MLMTR w I ,H IHT9 .9 the ratio of the...PF3DB COSGAM 0003031 loop 4O ?SP’ = ’,2 4.?D3F = ’,E12., 000001 C 000001 Dl = Dl /29;) . 0 01 D-7 = 𔃼 52q0.00000 ?STC OSIC* 18. ?1000001 FEE FEE_...and Level II, QPR, transmission and receiving can be accomplished with this model. Design parameters for filters, data rates, phase lock loops (PPL

ΔΔPT: a comprehensive toolbox for the analysis of protein motion

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Normal Mode Analysis is one of the most successful techniques for studying motions in proteins and macromolecules. It can provide information on the mechanism of protein functions, used to aid crystallography and NMR data reconstruction, and calculate protein free energies. Results ΔΔPT is a toolbox allowing calculation of elastic network models and principle component analysis. It allows the analysis of pdb files or trajectories taken from; Gromacs, Amber, and DL_POLY. As well as calculation of the normal modes it also allows comparison of the modes with experimental protein motion, variation of modes with mutation or ligand binding, and calculation of molecular dynamic entropies. Conclusions This toolbox makes the respective tools available to a wide community of potential NMA users, and allows them unrivalled ability to analyse normal modes using a variety of techniques and current software. PMID:23758746

A double-layer based model of ion confinement in electron cyclotron resonance ion source.

PubMed

Mascali, D; Neri, L; Celona, L; Castro, G; Torrisi, G; Gammino, S; Sorbello, G; Ciavola, G

2014-02-01

The paper proposes a new model of ion confinement in ECRIS, which can be easily generalized to any magnetic configuration characterized by closed magnetic surfaces. Traditionally, ion confinement in B-min configurations is ascribed to a negative potential dip due to superhot electrons, adiabatically confined by the magneto-static field. However, kinetic simulations including RF heating affected by cavity modes structures indicate that high energy electrons populate just a thin slab overlapping the ECR layer, while their density drops down of more than one order of magnitude outside. Ions, instead, diffuse across the electron layer due to their high collisionality. This is the proper physical condition to establish a double-layer (DL) configuration which self-consistently originates a potential barrier; this "barrier" confines the ions inside the plasma core surrounded by the ECR surface. The paper will describe a simplified ion confinement model based on plasma density non-homogeneity and DL formation.

A relationship between a level of hemoglobin after delivery and exclusive breastfeeding initiation at a baby friendly hospital in Japan.

PubMed

Horie, Saki; Nomura, Kyoko; Takenoshita, Shinichi; Nakagawa, Junko; Kido, Michiko; Sugimoto, Mitsuhiro

2017-04-20

The recent National Nutrition Survey of 2013 demonstrated that 16.7% of women in childbearing age are underweight, and 5.0-10.0% of these women manifested a Hemoglobin (Hb) level less than 11.0 g/dl. The purpose of this study was to investigate if such maternal nutritional status affects success of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) practice. This cross-sectional study investigated 1532 dyads of mothers and infants with full-term singleton pregnancies delivered during 2011 at a perinatal center in Tokyo. Outcome is EBF initiation defined as the successful practice at discharge and 1 month after discharge. A logistic regression model was applied to investigate the impact of Hb levels (<9.0, 9.0-10.9, and ≥11.0 g/dl) measured within 2-3 days after delivery on successful EBF initiation adjusting for covariates including bleeding at delivery. Mean age was 34 years, 23.0% were underweight and 63.0% were nulliparous. The success rate for EBF initiation at discharge and at 1 month after discharge was 72.7 and 63.0% for a Hb level <9.0 g/dl, 81.9 and 68.9% for a Hb level of 9.0-10.9 g/dl, and 85.7 and 75.9% for a Hb level ≥11.0 g/dl, respectively. A logistic regression model showed that risk factors of unsuccessful EBF practice at discharge and 1 month after discharge included lower level Hb categories (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001), postpartum hemorrhage > 500 ml (P = 0.089 and P = 0.011), maternal age (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001), nulliparity (P < 0.0001 and P < 0.001), pregnancy-induced hypertension (P = 0.002 and P = 0.012), gestational week (P = 0.006 and P = 0.002), Low Birth Weight (LBW) (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001), and immediate separation (P < 0.001 and P = 0.020). After adjusting for the covariates, compared with a Hb level ≥11.0 g/dl, a Hb level <9.0 g/dl was significantly associated with unsuccessful EBF initiation at discharge [odds ratio (OR): 2.15; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.37-3.39] and at 1 month after discharge (OR: 1.63; 95% CI: 1.10-2.42), and a Hb level of 9.0-10.9 g/dl also was significant at 1 month after discharge (OR: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.04-1.75). Pre-pregnancy underweight was not associated with success of EBF practice both at hospital discharge and 1 month after discharge. Maternal severe anemia after delivery was associated with the risk of unsuccessful initiation of EBF even after adjusting for bleeding at delivery, suggesting the importance of dietary management especially in the later trimester.

Effects of a Structured Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose Method on Patient Self-Management Behavior and Metabolic Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

PubMed Central

Khamseh, Mohammad E; Ansari, Majid; Malek, Mojtaba; Shafiee, Gita; Baradaran, Hamid

2011-01-01

Background The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of structured self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) on patient self-management behavior and metabolic outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods From January to June 2009, 30 patients with basic diabetes education were followed for a period of 90 days. To provide assessment of glycemic control and frequency of dysglycemia, patients, underwent 3 consecutive days of seven-point SMBG during each month for 3 consecutive months, using the ACCU-CHEK 360° View tool. Glucose profiles of the first and third month were used for comparison. Results Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) improved significantly during the 90-day period in all patients [confidence interval (CI) 95%, 0.32–1.64%, p < .05] and those with poor metabolic control (group B; CI 95%, 0.86–2.64%, p < .05). Mean blood glucose (MBG) values decreased significantly in group B (CI 95%, 0.56–24.78 mg/dl, p < .05) and all cases (CI 95%, 1.61–19.73 mg/dl, p < .05). Meanwhile, there was an average decrease of 15.7 mg/dl in fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels in the whole subjects. Mean postprandial blood glucose levels (MPP) decreased by 19.3 and 11.3 mg/dl in group B and in all cases, respectively. However, there were no significant changes in HbA1c, MBG, FBS, and MPP in people with good metabolic control. Conclusion A structured SMBG program improves HbA1c, FBS, MPP, and MBG in people with poorly controlled diabetes. This improvement shows the importance of patient self-management behavior on metabolic outcomes in T2DM. PMID:21527110

Coordinated Basal–Bolus Infusion for Tighter Postprandial Glucose Control in Insulin Pump Therapy

PubMed Central

Bondia, Jorge; Dassau, Eyal; Zisser, Howard; Calm, Remei; Vehí, Josep; Jovanovič, Lois; Doyle, Francis J.

2009-01-01

Background Basal and bolus insulin determination in intensive insulin therapy for type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) are currently considered independently of each other. A new strategy that coordinates basal and bolus insulin infusion to cope with postprandial glycemia in pump therapy is proposed. Superior performance of this new strategy is demonstrated through a formal analysis of attainable performances in an in silico study. Methods The set inversion via interval analysis algorithm has been applied to obtain the feasible set of basal and bolus doses that, for a given meal, mathematically guarantee a postprandial response fulfilling the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) guidelines (i.e., no hypoglycemia and 2 h postprandial glucose below 140 mg/dl). Hypoglycemia has been defined as a glucose value below 70 mg/dl. A 5 h time horizon has been considered for a 70 kg in silico T1DM subject consuming meals in the range of 30 to 80 g of carbohydrates. Results The computed feasible sets demonstrate that current separated basal/bolus strategy dramatically limits the attainable performance. For a nominal basal of 0.8 IU/h leading to a basal glucose of approximately 100 mg/dl, IDF guidelines cannot be fulfilled for meals greater than 50 g of carbohydrates, independent of the bolus insulin computed. However, coordinating the basal and bolus insulin delivery can achieve this. A decrement of basal insulin during the postprandial period is required together with an increase in bolus insulin, in appropriate percentages, which is meal dependent. After 3 h, basal insulin can be restored to its nominal value. Conclusions The new strategy meets IDF guidelines in a typical day, contrary to the standard basal/bolus strategy, yielding a mean 2 h postprandial glucose reduction of 36.4 mg/dl without late hypoglycemia. The application of interval analysis for the computation of feasible sets is demonstrated to be a powerful tool for the analysis of attainable performance in glucose control. PMID:20046653

HISTOCOMPATIBILITY STUDIES IN A CLOSELY BRED COLONY OF DOGS

PubMed Central

Rapaport, Felix T.; Boyd, Arthur D.; Spencer, Frank C.; Lower, Richard R.; Dausset, Jean; Cannon, Florence D.; Ferrebee, Joseph W.

1971-01-01

The DL-A system of histocompatibility plays an important role in conditioning the survival of cardiac allografts in the unmodified canine host. The mean survival time of six cardiac allografts performed in DL-A-compatible littermate dogs obtained from a closely bred colony of beagles was 53.2 days, while the MST of transplants performed in seven DL-A-incompatible animals was 7.3 days. The MST of cardiac allografts performed in nine DL-A-compatible nonlittermate beagles was 26.3 days, as compared with 6.3 days in six DL-A-incompatible nonlittermate transplants. The results did not appear to be affected by Swisher erythrocyte-group incompatibilities. The MST of 28 cardiac allografts performed in randomly selected mongrel dogs was 10.0 days. Incompatibilities for DL-A antigens e, f, g, l, and m may constitute major barriers to transplantation, but antigens b, c, d, and k appeared to act as weak histocompatibility antigens. Under controlled conditions of donor-recipient DL-A compatibility, cardiac allografts may be less immunogenic than renal transplants. Heart transplants performed across major donor-recipient DL-A incompatibilities appeared, however, to be more vulnerable to the events of allograft rejection than renal allografts performed under similar conditions. The selection of optimally compatible donor-recipient combinations for organ transplantation may be aided materially by genetic studies of the transmission of DL-A antigens to the animals under consideration. PMID:4943931

[Effect of smoke water and distillation liquid on the seed germination and seedling growth of Trichosathes kirilowii].

PubMed

Zhou, Jie; Bian, Li-hua; Zou, Lin; Zhou, Bin-qian; Liu, Wei; Wang, Xiao

2015-10-01

Smoke water and distillation liquid were used to treat the seeds of Trichosathes kirilowii and to study the effects of smoke water and distillation liquid on the seed germination and seedling growth of T. kirilowii. The results showed that germination rate, germination index and germination vigor of T. kirilowii all were significantly improved with the treatment of SW and DL treatment. The activity of α-amylase were significantly increased with the treatment of SW and DL at 1:2,000. SW and DL treatment showed no significant effects on the activity of SOD. The activity of POD were markedly enhanced under the treatment of SW (1:000) and DL (1:2,000). CAT activity were increased with the treatment of SW and DL at 1:2,000 while were inhibited by SW and DL at 1:500. Seedling height and root length were increased with the treatment of SW and DL (1:1,000, 1:2,000). SW and DL treaments improved the content of chlorophyll, and moreover with the concentration of SW and DL, the stimulatory were also increased. This work demonstrated that smoke water and diatillation liquid at 1:2,000 could stimulate the seed germination and seedling growth of T. kirilowii, and it provided the references for the study of seed germination technology.

Amino acid ionic liquids as chiral ligands in ligand-exchange chiral separations.

PubMed

Liu, Qian; Wu, Kangkang; Tang, Fei; Yao, Lihua; Yang, Fei; Nie, Zhou; Yao, Shouzhuo

2009-09-28

Recently, amino acid ionic liquids (AAILs) have attracted much research interest. In this paper, we present the first application of AAILs in chiral separation based on the chiral ligand exchange principle. By using 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium L-proline (L-Pro) as a chiral ligand coordinated with copper(II), four pairs of underivatized amino acid enantiomers-dl-phenylalanine (dl-Phe), dl-histidine (dl-His), dl-tryptophane (dl-Trp), and dl-tyrosine (dl-Tyr)-were successfully separated in two major chiral separation techniques, HPLC and capillary electrophoresis (CE), with higher enantioselectivity than conventionally used amino acid ligands (resolution (R(s))=3.26-10.81 for HPLC; R(s)=1.34-4.27 for CE). Interestingly, increasing the alkyl chain length of the AAIL cation remarkably enhanced the enantioselectivity. It was inferred that the alkylmethylimidazolium cations and L-Pro form ion pairs on the surface of the stationary phase or on the inner surface of the capillary. The ternary copper complexes with L-Pro are consequently attached to the support surface, thus inducing an ion-exchange type of retention for the dl-enantiomers. Therefore, the AAIL cation plays an essential role in the separation. This work demonstrates that AAILs are good alternatives to conventional amino acid ligands for ligand-exchange-based chiral separation. It also reveals the tremendous application potential of this new type of task-specific ILs.

Enantioselective separation of chiral aromatic amino acids with surface functionalized magnetic nanoparticles.

PubMed

Ghosh, Sudipa; Fang, Tan Hui; Uddin, M S; Hidajat, K

2013-05-01

Chiral resolution aromatic amino acids, DL-tryptophan (DL-Trp), DL-phenylalanine (DL-Phe), DL-tyrosine (DL-Tyr) from phosphate buffer solution was achieved in present study employing the concept of selective adsorption by surface functionalized magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs). Surfaces of magnetic nanoparticles were functionalized with silica and carboxymethyl-β-cyclodextrin (CMCD) to investigate their adsorption resolution characteristics. Resolution of enantiomers from racemic mixture was quantified in terms of enantiomeric excess using chromatographic method. The MNPs selectively adsorbed L-enantiomers of DL-Trp, DL-Phe, and DL-Tyr from racemic mixture and enantiomeric excesses (e.e.) were determined as 94%, 73% and 58%, respectively. FTIR studies demonstrated that hydrophobic portion of enantiomer penetrated into hydrophobic cavity of cyclodextrin molecules to form inclusion complex. Furthermore, adsorption site was explored using XPS and it was revealed that amino group at chiral center of the amino acid molecule formed hydrogen bond with secondary hydroxyl group of CMCD molecule and favorability of hydrogen bond formation resulted in selective adsorption of L-enantiomer. Finally, stability constant (K) and Gibbs free energy change (-ΔG°) for inclusion complexation of CMCD with L-/D-enantiomers of amino acids were determined using spectroflurometry in aqueous buffer solution. Higher binding constants were obtained for inclusion complexation of CMCD with L-enantiomers compared to D-enantiomers which stimulated enantioselective properties of CMCD functionalized magnetite silica nanoparticles. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

ForConX: A forcefield conversion tool based on XML.

PubMed

Lesch, Volker; Diddens, Diddo; Bernardes, Carlos E S; Golub, Benjamin; Dequidt, Alain; Zeindlhofer, Veronika; Sega, Marcello; Schröder, Christian

2017-04-05

The force field conversion from one MD program to another one is exhausting and error-prone. Although single conversion tools from one MD program to another exist not every combination and both directions of conversion are available for the favorite MD programs Amber, Charmm, Dl-Poly, Gromacs, and Lammps. We present here a general tool for the force field conversion on the basis of an XML document. The force field is converted to and from this XML structure facilitating the implementation of new MD programs for the conversion. Furthermore, the XML structure is human readable and can be manipulated before continuing the conversion. We report, as testcases, the conversions of topologies for acetonitrile, dimethylformamide, and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate comprising also Urey-Bradley and Ryckaert-Bellemans potentials. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

[Risk management of cardiovascular disease through milk enriched with sterols in a young-adult population; randomized controlled clinical trial].

PubMed

San Mauro Martín, Ismael; Collado Yurrita, Luis; Ciudad Cabañas, María José; Cuadrado Cenzual, María Ángeles; Hernández Cabria, Marta; Calle Purón, María Elisa

2014-10-01

Hypercholesterolemia is one of the most relevant risk factors in cardiovascular disease, where use of plant sterols one strategy evident. To determine the effectiveness of a rich in phytosterols for reducing markers of cardiovascular disease in young adult population milk. A randomized, clinical controlled trial, double-blind crossover study. Sterols (2.24 g per day) were ingested through commercial milk, with two phases and three weeks respectively separated by a washout period of 2 weeks, for those subjects during the "milk of study", and the same amount of skim milk, sterols, for placebo. At the beginning and end of each phase blood draws were performed.. Lipid profile, hematology, inflammation, etc; anthropometric data, health habits and blood laboratory markers were collected. Nineteen people completed the study of 34.68 years (± 6.91). Difference between baseline and final scores were 19.47 (± 29.10) mg/dl, 24.47 (± 30.68) mg/dl, 14.36 (± 44.16) mg/dl for LDL-cholesterol, total Cholesterol and Triglycerides, respectively. Without considerable changes in HDLc. There are significant differences between placebo and milk with sterols for LDL (p=0.009) and total Cholesterol (p=0.003). Sterols supplied in a functional food, such as milk, can be a strategy for non- pharmacological treatment of hypercholesterolemia and therefore a tool for cardiovascular risk reduction globally. Copyright AULA MEDICA EDICIONES 2014. Published by AULA MEDICA. All rights reserved.

Estimation and Comparison of Salivary Calcium, Phosphorous, Alkaline Phosphatase and pH Levels in Periodontal Health and Disease: A Cross-sectional Biochemical Study.

PubMed

Patel, Rufi Murad; Varma, Siddhartha; Suragimath, Girish; Zope, Sameer

2016-07-01

In oral diagnostics there is a great challenge to determine biomarkers for screening and evaluating the disease activity. Biomarkers can also serve as a useful tool to measure the efficacy of the therapy. To evaluate and compare the levels of salivary calcium, phosphorous, alkaline phosphatase and pH levels in periodontally healthy subjects and patients with gingivitis and periodontitis. The present study consisted of 150 subjects aged between 20-45 years who were divided into three groups; periodontally healthy, gingivitis and chronic periodontitis. Prior to the clinical examination the demographic details, relevant information of the subject, gingival index, plaque index, Oral Hygiene Index (OHI) and pH were recorded. Biochemical assay of saliva i.e., inorganic calcium, phosphorous and alkaline phosphatase were estimated by colorimetric method. ANOVA and Tukey's test were applied for statistical analysis. The mean levels of biomarkers studied were; inorganic calcium (12.55μg/dl), phosphorous (14.50μg/dl), alkaline phosphatase (49.62μg/dl) and pH (11.65). There was a gradual increase in these levels as the condition progressed from health to gingivitis or periodontitis which was statistically significant at p<0.001. Based on these results, it can be concluded that, the biomarkers like salivary calcium, phosphorous, alkaline phosphatase and pH can be considered for evaluating the diagnosis and prognosis of periodontal tissues in disease and health.

Volitional regulation of brain responses to food stimuli in overweight and obese subjects: A real-time fMRI feedback study.

PubMed

Spetter, Maartje S; Malekshahi, Rahim; Birbaumer, Niels; Lührs, Michael; van der Veer, Albert H; Scheffler, Klaus; Spuckti, Sophia; Preissl, Hubert; Veit, Ralf; Hallschmid, Manfred

2017-05-01

Obese subjects who achieve weight loss show increased functional connectivity between dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) and ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), key areas of executive control and reward processing. We investigated the potential of real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging (rt-fMRI) neurofeedback training to achieve healthier food choices by enhancing self-control of the interplay between these brain areas. We trained eight male individuals with overweight or obesity (age: 31.8 ± 4.4 years, BMI: 29.4 ± 1.4 kg/m 2 ) to up-regulate functional connectivity between the dlPFC and the vmPFC by means of a four-day rt-fMRI neurofeedback protocol including, on each day, three training runs comprised of six up-regulation and six passive viewing trials. During the up-regulation runs of the four training days, participants successfully learned to increase functional connectivity between dlPFC and vmPFC. In addition, a trend towards less high-calorie food choices emerged from before to after training, which however was associated with a trend towards increased covertly assessed snack intake. Findings of this proof-of-concept study indicate that overweight and obese participants can increase functional connectivity between brain areas that orchestrate the top-down control of appetite for high-calorie foods. Neurofeedback training might therefore be a useful tool in achieving and maintaining weight loss. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Negative gravitactic behavior of Caenorhabditis japonica dauer larvae.

PubMed

Okumura, Etsuko; Tanaka, Ryusei; Yoshiga, Toyoshi

2013-04-15

Gravity on Earth is a constant stimulus and many organisms are able to perceive and respond to it. However, there is no clear evidence that nematodes respond to gravity. In this study, we demonstrated negative gravitaxis in a nematode using dauer larvae (DL) of Caenorhabditis japonica, which form an association with their carrier insect Parastrachia japonensis. Caenorhabditis japonica DL demonstrating nictation, a typical host-finding behavior, had a negative gravitactic behavior, whereas non-nictating C. japonica and C. elegans DL did not. The negative gravitactic index of nictating DL collected from younger nematode cultures was higher than that from older cultures. After a 24 h incubation in M9 buffer, nictating DL did not alter their negative gravitactic behavior, but a longer incubation resulted in less pronounced negative gravitaxis. These results are indicative of negative gravitaxis in nictating C. japonica DL, which is maintained once initiated, seems to be affected by the age of DL and does not appear to be a simple passive mechanism.

MO-G-17A-05: PET Image Deblurring Using Adaptive Dictionary Learning

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

Valiollahzadeh, S; Clark, J; Mawlawi, O

2014-06-15

Purpose: The aim of this work is to deblur PET images while suppressing Poisson noise effects using adaptive dictionary learning (DL) techniques. Methods: The model that relates a blurred and noisy PET image to the desired image is described as a linear transform y=Hm+n where m is the desired image, H is a blur kernel, n is Poisson noise and y is the blurred image. The approach we follow to recover m involves the sparse representation of y over a learned dictionary, since the image has lots of repeated patterns, edges, textures and smooth regions. The recovery is based onmore » an optimization of a cost function having four major terms: adaptive dictionary learning term, sparsity term, regularization term, and MLEM Poisson noise estimation term. The optimization is solved by a variable splitting method that introduces additional variables. We simulated a 128×128 Hoffman brain PET image (baseline) with varying kernel types and sizes (Gaussian 9×9, σ=5.4mm; Uniform 5×5, σ=2.9mm) with additive Poisson noise (Blurred). Image recovery was performed once when the kernel type was included in the model optimization and once with the model blinded to kernel type. The recovered image was compared to the baseline as well as another recovery algorithm PIDSPLIT+ (Setzer et. al.) by calculating PSNR (Peak SNR) and normalized average differences in pixel intensities (NADPI) of line profiles across the images. Results: For known kernel types, the PSNR of the Gaussian (Uniform) was 28.73 (25.1) and 25.18 (23.4) for DL and PIDSPLIT+ respectively. For blinded deblurring the PSNRs were 25.32 and 22.86 for DL and PIDSPLIT+ respectively. NADPI between baseline and DL, and baseline and blurred for the Gaussian kernel was 2.5 and 10.8 respectively. Conclusion: PET image deblurring using dictionary learning seems to be a good approach to restore image resolution in presence of Poisson noise. GE Health Care.« less

Associations of obesity with triglycerides and C-reactive protein are attenuated in adults with high red blood cell eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids

PubMed Central

Makhoul, Zeina; Kristal, Alan R.; Gulati, Roman; Luick, Bret; Bersamin, Andrea; O'Brien, Diane; Hopkins, Scarlett E.; Stephensen, Charles B.; Stanhope, Kimber L.; Havel, Peter J.; Boyer, Bert

2011-01-01

Background N-3 fatty acids are associated with favorable, and obesity with unfavorable, concentrations of chronic disease risk biomarkers. Objective We examined whether high eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acid intakes, measured as percentages of total red blood cell (RBC) fatty acids, modify associations of obesity with chronic disease risk biomarkers. Methods In a cross-sectional study of 330 Yup'ik Eskimos, generalized additive models (GAM) and linear and quadratic regression models were used to examine associations of BMI with biomarkers across RBC EPA and DHA categories. Results Median (5th–95th percentile) RBC EPA and DHA were 2.6% (0.5–5.9%) and 7.3% (3.3–8.9%), respectively. In regression models, associations of BMI with triglycerides, glucose, insulin, C-reactive protein (CRP) and leptin differed significantly by RBC EPA and DHA. The GAM confirmed regression results for triglycerides and CRP: At low RBC EPA and RBC DHA, the predicted increases in triglycerides and CRP concentrations associated with a BMI increase from 25 to 35 were 99.5±45.3 mg/dl (106%) and 137.8±71.0 mg/dl (156%), respectively, for triglycerides and 1.2±0.7 mg/l (61%) and 0.8±1.0 mg/l (35%), respectively, for CRP. At high RBC EPA and RBC DHA, these predicted increases were 13.9±8.1 mg/dl (23%) and 12.0±12.3 mg/dl (18%), respectively, for triglycerides and 0.5±0.5 mg/l (50%) and −0.5±0.6 mg/l (−34%), respectively, for CRP. Conclusions In this population, high RBC EPA and DHA were associated with attenuated dyslipidemia and low-grade systemic inflammation among overweight and obese persons. This may help inform recommendations for n-3 fatty acid intakes in the reduction of obesity-related disease risk. PMID:21427737

A clinical-molecular prognostic model to predict survival in patients with post polycythemia vera and post essential thrombocythemia myelofibrosis.

PubMed

Passamonti, F; Giorgino, T; Mora, B; Guglielmelli, P; Rumi, E; Maffioli, M; Rambaldi, A; Caramella, M; Komrokji, R; Gotlib, J; Kiladjian, J J; Cervantes, F; Devos, T; Palandri, F; De Stefano, V; Ruggeri, M; Silver, R T; Benevolo, G; Albano, F; Caramazza, D; Merli, M; Pietra, D; Casalone, R; Rotunno, G; Barbui, T; Cazzola, M; Vannucchi, A M

2017-12-01

Polycythemia vera (PV) and essential thrombocythemia (ET) are myeloproliferative neoplasms with variable risk of evolution into post-PV and post-ET myelofibrosis, from now on referred to as secondary myelofibrosis (SMF). No specific tools have been defined for risk stratification in SMF. To develop a prognostic model for predicting survival, we studied 685 JAK2, CALR, and MPL annotated patients with SMF. Median survival of the whole cohort was 9.3 years (95% CI: 8-not reached-NR-). Through penalized Cox regressions we identified negative predictors of survival and according to beta risk coefficients we assigned 2 points to hemoglobin level <11 g/dl, to circulating blasts ⩾3%, and to CALR-unmutated genotype, 1 point to platelet count <150 × 10 9 /l and to constitutional symptoms, and 0.15 points to any year of age. Myelofibrosis Secondary to PV and ET-Prognostic Model (MYSEC-PM) allocated SMF patients into four risk categories with different survival (P<0.0001): low (median survival NR; 133 patients), intermediate-1 (9.3 years, 95% CI: 8.1-NR; 245 patients), intermediate-2 (4.4 years, 95% CI: 3.2-7.9; 126 patients), and high risk (2 years, 95% CI: 1.7-3.9; 75 patients). Finally, we found that the MYSEC-PM represents the most appropriate tool for SMF decision-making to be used in clinical and trial settings.

[The effects of the short-term regular exercise-diet program on lipid profile in sedentary subjects].

PubMed

Yalin, S; Gök, H; Toksöz, R

2001-09-01

Regular aerobic exercise leads to changes in plasma lipids, lipoprotein and apoprotein levels. The aim of this study was to examine the training effects of the intervention program consisted of regular exercise and low fat diet on plasma lipid profile. The effects of the four weeks intervention programme which consisted of walking and dietary restriction on lipid profile in sedentary subjects were investigated. Subjects, who had dyslipidemia or obesity, were instructed to walk (consecutive 60 minutes, one times daily) and to consume no more than 20% total fat and 300 mg/d of cholesterol for four weeks. At the end of fourth week, 41 subjects who had implemented exercise-diet programme, were assigned to study (intervention) group; 21 subjects who had remained sedentary, nondieting, were included into the control group. Total-C, triglycerides, LDL-C, HDL-C, Lp (a), apo A1 and apo B100 were measured in fasting blood samples before and after 4 weeks of intervention programme. At the end of four weeks, subjects in the exercise-diet group, as compared with the control group, showed a significant reduction in body weight (respectively 1.67 +/- 2.36 kg versus -0.21 +/- 1.36 kg, p = 0.001), total cholesterol (35 +/- 37 mg/dl vs -20 +/- 25 mg/dl, p < 0.001), triglycerides (30 +/- 68 mg/dl vs -10 +/- 52 mg/dl, p = 0.024) and LDL-C (29 +/- 41 mg/dl vs -18 +/- 25 mg/dl, p < 0.001) levels. However, at the end of programme, in the exercise-diet group, as compared with the control group, the changes in HDL-C (respectively -0.85 +/- 7.30 mg/dl vs 1.05 +/- 5.64 mg/dl, p = 0.302), Lp (a) (1.59 +/- 3.06 mg/dl vs -0.09 +/- 3.96 mg/dl, p = 0.069), apo A1 (0.61 +/- 22.69 mg/dl vs -0.66 +/- 17.27 mg/dl, p = 0.822) and apo B100 (5.41 +/- 19.33 mg/dl vs -4.00 +/- 20.51 mg/dl, p = 0.080) were not significant. The data of this study demonstrate that the four weeks programme based on regular daily aerobic exercise and low fat diet is capable of decreasing total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL-C levels and that this short-term intervention is insufficient in increasing HDL-C, in decreasing Lp (a) and improving apoprotein levels.

Efficacy of DL-methionine hydroxy analogue-free acid in comparison to DL-methionine in growing male white Pekin ducks.

PubMed

Kluge, H; Gessner, D K; Herzog, E; Eder, K

2016-03-01

The present study was performed to assess the bioefficacy of DL-methionine hydroxy analogue-free acid (MHA) in comparison to DL-methionine (DLM) as sources of methionine for growing male white Pekin ducks in the first 3 wk of life. For this aim, 580 1-day-old male ducks were allocated into 12 treatment groups and received a basal diet that contained 0.29% of methionine, 0.34% of cysteine and 0.63% of total sulphur containing amino acids or the same diet supplemented with either DLM or MHA in amounts to supply 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, and 0.25% of methionine equivalents. Ducks fed the control diet without methionine supplement had the lowest final body weights, daily body weight gains and feed intake among all groups. Supplementation of methionine improved final body weights and daily body weight gains in a dose dependent-manner. There was, however, no significant effect of the source of methionine on all of the performance responses. Evaluation of the data of daily body weight gains with an exponential model of regression revealed a nearly identical efficacy (slope of the curves) of both compounds for growth (DLM = 100%, MHA = 101%). According to the exponential model of regression, 95% of the maximum values of daily body weight gain were reached at methionine supplementary levels of 0.080% and 0.079% for DLM and MHA, respectively. Overall, the present study indicates that MHA and DLM have a similar efficacy as sources of methionine for growing ducks. It is moreover shown that dietary methionine concentrations of 0.37% are required to reach 95% of the maximum of daily body weight gains in ducks during the first 3 wk of life. © 2015 Poultry Science Association Inc.

Crystal structures of resorcin[4]arene and pyrogallol[4]arene complexes with proline: A model for proline recognition through Csbnd H···π interaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fujisawa, Ikuhide; Kitamura, Yuji; Kato, Ryo; Aoki, Katsuyuki

2018-07-01

Resorcin[4]arene (resorcinol cyclic tetramer, abbreviated as RCT) or pyrogallol[4]arene (pyrogallol cyclic tetramer, PCT) form host-guest 1:1 complexes with DL-proline (DL-Pro) or L-proline (L-Pro), [RCT·DL-Pro]·2MeOH·3.5H2O (1) and 2[PCT·L-Pro]·2EtOH·10H2O (2), whose crystal structures have been determined. In each complex, the proline ligand is incorporated into the bowl-shaped cavity of RCT or PCT host molecules through Csbnd H … π interactions between alkyl protons of the pyrrolidine ring of proline and π-rings of RCT or PCT, forming an [RCT/PCT·Pro] structural fragment. In the crystal lattice, two [RCT/PCT·Pro] fragments self-associate to form a ligand-mediated dimeric structure, [RCT·D-Pro·L-Pro·RCT] in 1 or [PCT·L-Pro·L-Pro·PCT] in 2. A 1H NMR solution study gave the host‒ligand binding constants of 10.0 ± 1.1 M-1 for the RCT-DL-Pro system and 17.3 ± 1.3 M-1 for the PCT-L-Pro system. These complexes provide a synthetic model for the recognition of the proline residue in proline-containing substrates or inhibitors by enzymes through Csbnd H … π interaction. The CSD survey revealed that the absolute value of the torsion angle N-Cα-Csbnd O1 (O1 is cis to N) about the carboxyl Cα-C bond of proline is significantly smaller than that of the Cβ-Cα-Csbnd O2 (O2 is cis to Cβ) torsion angle.

Untangling the complex relationships between incident gout risk, serum urate, and its comorbidities.

PubMed

Sun, Mengying; Vazquez, Ana I; Reynolds, Richard J; Singh, Jasvinder A; Reeves, Mathew; Merriman, Tony R; Gaffo, Angelo L; Los Campos, Gustavo de

2018-05-03

Many gout comorbidities (e.g., hypertension) are correlated with serum urate. In this investigation, we identified risk factors (e.g., systolic blood pressure [SBP]), that (1) are associated with incident gout, (2) have effects on gout risk that cannot be fully explained by correlated differences in serum urate, and (3) may modulate the relationship between gout and serum urate. Using data from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, we estimated the unadjusted associations between gout and risk factors by calculating ORs and using chi-square tests. The adjusted associations were analyzed using logistic regression by sequentially adding (1) one risk factor at a time or (2) all risk factors, to a baseline model that includes serum urate only. Stepwise selection was used to select main effects. Two-way interactions of variables from the main effects model were also analyzed. Average gout incidence was 2.7 per 1000 people per year. Serum urate was highly associated with incident gout, with odd ratios of 3.16 [95% CI 2.11, 4.76] and 25.9 [95% CI 17.2, 38.4] for moderately high (6-8 mg/dl) and high serum urate (> 8 mg/dl), relative to normal serum urate (< 6 mg/dl), respectively. Ethnicity and SBP were independently and additively associated with gout after accounting for serum urate levels. No significant interactions were found between serum urate and ethnicity or SBP. Ethnicity and hypertension are predictive of gout risk, and the associations cannot be fully explained by serum urate. For serum urate levels near the crystallization threshold (6-8 mg/dl) African Americans and people with hypertension are at two to three times greater risk for developing gout. The gout risk for this group appears to increase before the onset of severe hyperuricemia.

Severe anemia in pregnancy in rural Ghana: a case-control study of causes and management.

PubMed

Geelhoed, Diederike; Agadzi, Florence; Visser, Lucia; Ablordeppey, Emelia; Asare, Kofi; O'Rourke, Peter; van Leeuwen, Jules Schagen; van Roosmalen, Jos

2006-01-01

Various factors contribute to severe anemia in pregnancy in low-income countries. This study assesses which of these are of importance in rural Ghana, and evaluates management. Prospective case-control study in two (sub)district hospitals in rural Ghana among 175 severely anemic pregnant women (Hb < 8.0 g/dl), receiving a comprehensive treatment package; and 152 non-anemic pregnant women (Hb > or = 10.9 g/dl), giving birth at the study hospitals, matched for age and parity. Evaluated characteristics were need for treatment for urinary tract infection and schistosomiasis; sickle cell and HIV status; antenatal care characteristics; and Hb increase after treatment. Statistical analysis included Chi square test and general linear modeling. Associated with severe anemia were multiple pregnancy (OR 8.9; 95%CI 1.1-71.0), urinary tract infection (OR 6.2; 95%CI 3.5-11.0), residence outside study (sub)district (OR 2.7; 95%CI 1.7-4.3), body mass index < 20.0 (OR 2.0; 95%CI 1.2-3.4), and less than 4 antenatal clinic visits (OR 1.9; 95%CI 1.2-3.0). No association was found with sickle cell or HIV status, schistosomiasis treatment, blood loss in pregnancy, or gestational age at antenatal care registration. After treatment, mean Hb in the severe anemia group increased by 3.2 g/dl, significantly more than in the control group (0.2 g/dl; p<0.001). Modeling showed that the number of antenatal visits and the lowest Hb together explained approximately 25% of the variability in Hb prior to childbirth among women with severe anemia. Treatable causes contribute considerably to severe anemia in pregnancy in low-income countries. Even with limited resources, a substantial increase of Hb can be achieved.

Systematic investigation on the validity of partition model dosimetry for 90Y radioembolization using Monte Carlo simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aziz Hashikin, Nurul Ab; Yeong, Chai-Hong; Guatelli, Susanna; Jeet Abdullah, Basri Johan; Ng, Kwan-Hoong; Malaroda, Alessandra; Rosenfeld, Anatoly; Perkins, Alan Christopher

2017-09-01

We aimed to investigate the validity of the partition model (PM) in estimating the absorbed doses to liver tumour ({{D}T} ), normal liver tissue ({{D}NL} ) and lungs ({{D}L} ), when cross-fire irradiations between these compartments are being considered. MIRD-5 phantom incorporated with various treatment parameters, i.e. tumour involvement (TI), tumour-to-normal liver uptake ratio (T/N) and lung shunting (LS), were simulated using the Geant4 Monte Carlo (MC) toolkit. 108 track histories were generated for each combination of the three parameters to obtain the absorbed dose per activity uptake in each compartment (DT{{AT}} , DNL{{ANL}} , and DL{{AL}} ). The administered activities, A were estimated using PM, so as to achieve either limiting doses to normal liver, DNLlim or lungs, ~DLlim (70 or 30 Gy, respectively). Using these administered activities, the activity uptake in each compartment ({{A}T} , {{A}NL} , and {{A}L} ) was estimated and multiplied with the absorbed dose per activity uptake attained using the MC simulations, to obtain the actual dose received by each compartment. PM overestimated {{D}L} by 11.7% in all cases, due to the escaped particles from the lungs. {{D}T} and {{D}NL} by MC were largely affected by T/N, which were not considered by PM due to cross-fire exclusion at the tumour-normal liver boundary. These have resulted in the overestimation of {{D}T} by up to 8% and underestimation of {{D}NL} by as high as  -78%, by PM. When DNLlim was estimated via PM, the MC simulations showed significantly higher {{D}NL} for cases with higher T/N, and LS  ⩽  10%. All {{D}L} and {{D}T} by MC were overestimated by PM, thus DLlim were never exceeded. PM leads to inaccurate dose estimations due to the exclusion of cross-fire irradiation, i.e. between the tumour and normal liver tissue. Caution should be taken for cases with higher TI and T/N, and lower LS, as they contribute to major underestimation of {{D}NL} . For {{D}L} , a different correction factor for dose calculation may be used for improved accuracy.

CSA/AZA, in the absence of prednisone, improves linear growth in renal transplanted children.

PubMed

David-Neto, E; Nahas, W; Sampaio, E C; Ianhez, L E; Sabbaga, E; Arap, S

1992-01-01

We compared the results of 44 renal transplants in children, of whom 24 were treated with CSA/AZA and 20 with prednisone in combination with AZA and/or CSA. There were no differences in age distribution or mean ages at transplant between the two treatment groups. The CSA/AZA group had a longer follow-up (29 +/- 33 vs 17 +/- 18 months). At the last follow-up, five children in the CSA/AZA and none in the prednisone group had lost their grafts. Serum creatinine increased in both groups from 0.7 +/- 0.1 mg/dl and 0.9 +/- 0.1 mg/dl at the end of the first month to 1.1 +/- 0.2 mg/dl in the 36th month (CSA/AZA group) (P < 0.0001) and to 1.5 +/- 0.6 mg/dl in the 18th month (prednisone group) (P < 0.05), respectively. Total cholesterol level was 189 +/- 52 mg/dl and 178 +/- 60 mg/dl and LDL level was 117 +/- 48 mg/dl and 115 +/- 51 mg/dl for the prednisone and CSA/AZA groups, respectively. HDL was greater in the CSA/AZA group (50 +/- 10 vs 41 +/- 10 mg/dl) (P < 0.03), and VLDL was greater in the prednisone group (31 +/- 13 vs 22 +/- 8 mg/dl) (P < 0.05). Serum triglyceride was greater in the prednisone group (174 +/- 93 vs 112 +/- 50 mg/dl) (P < 0.03). The standard deviation score for height of the children in the prednisone group did not change (-2.4 +/- 1.4 vs -2.1 +/- 1.4 SDS), whereas the SDS height score for the CSA/AZA children increased from -3.1 +/- 1.7 to -2.6 +/- 1.5, -1.9 +/- 1.4 and -1.7 +/- 1.4, at 12, 24 and 36 months, respectively (P < 0.001). CSA/AZA is a good immunosuppressive regime for the first renal transplant in children, but only 75% tolerated AZA/CSA without same damage to their grafts.

A comparison of the enzymatic properties of three recombinant isoforms of thrombolytic and antibacterial protein--Destabilase-Lysozyme from medicinal leech.

PubMed

Kurdyumov, Alexey S; Manuvera, Valentin A; Baskova, Isolda P; Lazarev, Vassili N

2015-11-21

Destabilase-Lysozyme (mlDL) is a multifunctional i-type enzyme that has been found in the secretions from the salivary glands of medicinal leeches. mlDL has been shown to exhibit isopeptidase, muramidase and antibacterial activity. This enzyme attracts interest because it expresses thrombolytic activity through isopeptidolysis of the ε-(γ-Glu)-Lys bonds that cross-link polypeptide chains in stabilised fibrin. To date, three isoforms of mlDL have been identified. The enzymatic properties of pure mlDL isoforms have not yet been described because only destabilase complexes containing other proteins could be isolated from the salivary gland secretion and because low product yield from the generation of recombinant proteins has made comprehensive testing difficult. In the present study, we optimised the procedures related to the expression, isolation and purification of active mlDL isoforms (mlDL-Ds1, mlDL-Ds2, mlDL-Ds3) using an Escherichia coli expression system, and we detected and compared their muramidase, lytic, isopeptidase and antimicrobial activities. After optimisation, the product yield was 30 mg per litre of culture. The data obtained in our study led to the suggestion that the recombinant mlDL isoforms isolated from inclusion bodies form stable oligomeric complexes. Analyses of the tested activities revealed that all isoforms exhibited almost identical patterns of pH and ionic strength effects on the activities. We determined that mlDL-Ds1, 2, 3 possessed non-enzymatic antibacterial activity independent of their muramidase activity. For the first time, we demonstrated the fibrinolytic activity of the recombinant mlDL and showed that only intact proteins possessed this activity, suggesting their enzymatic nature. The recombinant Destabilase-Lysozyme isoforms obtained in our study may be considered potential thrombolytic agents that act through a mechanism different from that of common thrombolytics.

Methionine metabolism in piglets Fed DL-methionine or its hydroxy analogue was affected by distribution of enzymes oxidizing these sources to keto-methionine.

PubMed

Fang, Zhengfeng; Luo, Hefeng; Wei, Hongkui; Huang, Feiruo; Qi, Zhili; Jiang, Siwen; Peng, Jian

2010-02-10

Previous evidence shows that the extensive catabolism of dietary essential amino acids (AA) by the intestine results in decreased availability of these AA for protein synthesis in extraintestinal tissues. This raises the possibility that extraintestinal availability of AA may be improved by supplying the animal with an AA source more of which can bypass the intestine. To test this hypothesis, six barrows (35-day-old, 8.6 +/- 1.4 kg), implanted with arterial, portal, and mesenteric catheters, were fed a DL-methionine (DL-MET) or DL-2-hydroxy-4-methylthiobutyrate (DL-HMTB) diet once hourly and infused intramesenterically with 1% p-amino hippurate. Although the directly available L-MET in DL-MET diet was about 1.2-fold that in DL-HMTB diet, the net portal appearance of L-MET was not different between the two diets. Compared with the low mRNA abundance and low activity of D-2-hydroxy acid dehydrogenase (D-HADH) and l-2-hydroxy acid oxidase (L-HAOX) in the intestine, the high mRNA abundance and high activity of D-AA oxidase (D-AAOX) indicated that the intestine had a relatively higher capacity of D-MET utilization than of dl-HMTB utilization to L-MET synthesis and its subsequent metabolism. However, in contrast to the much lower D-AAOX activity (nmol/g tissue) in the stomach than in the liver and kidney, both d-HADH and L-HAOX activity in the stomach was comparable with those in the liver and/or kidney, indicating the substantial capacity of the stomach to convert DL-HMTB to L-MET. Collectively, the difference in distribution of activity and mRNA abundance of D-AAOX, D-HADH, and L-HAOX in the piglets may offer a biological basis for the similar portal appearance of L-MET between DL-MET and DL-HMTB diets, and thus may provide new important insights into nutritional efficiency of different L-MET sources.

KIR2DL4 differentially signals downstream functions in human NK cells through distinct structural modules.

PubMed

Miah, S M Shahjahan; Hughes, Tracey L; Campbell, Kerry S

2008-03-01

KIR2DL4 (2DL4) is a member of the killer cell Ig-like receptor (KIR) family in human NK cells. It can stimulate potent cytokine production and weak cytolytic activity in resting NK cells, but the mechanism for 2DL4-mediated signaling remains unclear. In this study we characterized the signaling pathways stimulated by 2DL4 engagement. In a human NK-like cell line, KHYG-1, cross-linking of 2DL4 activated MAPKs including JNK, ERK, and p38. Furthermore, 2DL4 cross-linking resulted in phosphorylation of IkappaB kinase beta (IKKbeta) and the phosphorylation and degradation of IkappaBalpha, which indicate activation of the classical NF-kappaB pathway. Engagement of 2DL4 was also shown to activate the transcription and translation of a variety of cytokine genes, including TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma, MIP1alpha, MIP1beta, and IL-8. Pharmacological inhibitors of JNK, MEK1/2 and p38, blocked IFN-gamma, IL-8, and MIP1alpha production, suggesting that MAPKs are regulating 2DL4-mediated cytokine production in a nonredundant manner. Activation of both p38 and ERK appear to be upstream of the stimulation of NF-kappaB. Mutation of a transmembrane arginine in 2DL4 to glycine (R/G mutant) abrogated FcepsilonRI-gamma association, as well as receptor-mediated cytolytic activity and calcium responses. Surprisingly, the R/G mutant still activated MAPKs and the NF-kappaB pathway and selectively stimulated the production of MIP1alpha, but not that of IFN-gamma or IL-8. In conclusion, we provide evidence that the activating functions of 2DL4 can be compartmentalized into two distinct structural modules: 1) through transmembrane association with FcepsilonRI-gamma; and 2) through another receptor domain independent of the transmembrane arginine.

Response repetition biases in human perceptual decisions are explained by activity decay in competitive attractor models

PubMed Central

Bonaiuto, James J; de Berker, Archy; Bestmann, Sven

2016-01-01

Animals and humans have a tendency to repeat recent choices, a phenomenon known as choice hysteresis. The mechanism for this choice bias remains unclear. Using an established, biophysically informed model of a competitive attractor network for decision making, we found that decaying tail activity from the previous trial caused choice hysteresis, especially during difficult trials, and accurately predicted human perceptual choices. In the model, choice variability could be directionally altered through amplification or dampening of post-trial activity decay through simulated depolarizing or hyperpolarizing network stimulation. An analogous intervention using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) yielded a close match between model predictions and experimental results: net soma depolarizing currents increased choice hysteresis, while hyperpolarizing currents suppressed it. Residual activity in competitive attractor networks within dlPFC may thus give rise to biases in perceptual choices, which can be directionally controlled through non-invasive brain stimulation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.20047.001 PMID:28005007

Anomalous transport in discrete arcs and simulation of double layers in a model auroral circuit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Robert A.

1987-01-01

The evolution and long-time stability of a double layer in a discrete auroral arc requires that the parallel current in the arc, which may be considered uniform at the source, be diverted within the arc to charge the flanks of the U-shaped double-layer potential structure. A simple model is presented in which this current re-distribution is effected by anomalous transport based on electrostatic lower hybrid waves driven by the flank structure itself. This process provides the limiting constraint on the double-layer potential. The flank charging may be represented as that of a nonlinear transmission. A simplified model circuit, in which the transmission line is represented by a nonlinear impedance in parallel with a variable resistor, is incorporated in a 1-d simulation model to give the current density at the DL boundaries. Results are presented for the scaling of the DL potential as a function of the width of the arc and the saturation efficiency of the lower hybrid instability mechanism.

Mycobacterium sarraceniae sp. nov. and Mycobacterium helvum sp. nov., isolated from the pitcher plant Sarracenia purpurea.

PubMed

Tran, Phuong M; Dahl, John L

2016-11-01

Several fast- to intermediate-growing, acid-fast, scotochromogenic bacteria were isolated from Sarracenia purpurea pitcher waters in Minnesota sphagnum peat bogs. Two strains (DL734T and DL739T) were among these isolates. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequences, the phylogenetic positions of both strains is in the genus Mycobacterium with no obvious relation to any characterized type strains of mycobacteria. Phenotypic characterization revealed that neither strain was similar to the type strains of known species of the genus Mycobacterium in the collective properties of growth, pigmentation or fatty acid composition. Strain DL734T grew at temperatures between 28 and 32 °C, was positive for 3-day arylsulfatase production, and was negative for Tween 80 hydrolysis, urease and nitrate reduction. Strain DL739T grew at temperatures between 28 and 37 °C, and was positive for Tween 80 hydrolysis, urea, nitrate reduction and 3-day arylsulfatase production. Both strains were catalase-negative while only DL739T grew with 5 % NaCl. Fatty acid methyl ester profiles were unique for each strain. DL739T showed an ability to survive at 8 °C with little to no cellular replication and is thus considered to be psychrotolerant. Therefore, strains DL734T and DL739T represent two novel species of the genus Mycobacterium with the proposed names Mycobacterium sarraceniae sp. nov. and Mycobacterium helvum sp. nov., respectively. The type strains are DL734T (=JCM 30395T=NCCB 100519T) and DL739T (=JCM 30396T=NCCB 100520T), respectively.

A comparative evaluation to assess the efficacy of 5% sodium fluoride varnish and diode laser and their combined application in the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity

PubMed Central

Suri, Isha; Singh, Poonam; Shakir, Quaid Johar; Shetty, Arvind; Bapat, Ranjeet; Thakur, Roshani

2016-01-01

Background: Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) is an age old complaint with a great number of treatment modalities, but none of these are totally effective till date. Lasers being one of the latest treatment options in periodontics, a study was conducted to test the efficacy of diode laser (DL) in DH alone and in comparison with 5% sodium fluoride (NaF) varnish. Aim: The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of 5% topical NaF varnish and 980 nm gallium aluminum arsenide (GaAlAs) DL alone and combination of 5% NaF + 980 nm GaAlAs DL in the management of DH. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 120 teeth in thirty patients with DH assessed by tactile and air blast (AB) stimuli measured by visual analog scale (VAS). Teeth were randomly divided into Group 1 (P) placebo-treated control group, Group 2 (NaF) treated by 5% NaF varnish, Group 3 (DL) treated with 980 nm DL, and Group 4 (NaF + DL) treated with both 5% NaF varnish and 980 nm DL (combination group). Results: There was a significant reduction in DH. The VAS reduction percentages were calculated, and there was a significant decrease in DH above all in G4 (NaF + DL) than G3 (DL) and G2 (NaF). Conclusion: Even though all the three groups (2, 3, and 4) showed improvement in terms of DH reduction, 5% NaF varnish with DL showed the best results among all the groups. PMID:27563205

Seasonal trends in nesting leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) serum proteins further verify capital breeding hypothesis

PubMed Central

Perrault, Justin R.; Wyneken, Jeanette; Page-Karjian, Annie; Merrill, Anita; Miller, Debra L.

2014-01-01

Serum protein concentrations provide insight into the nutritional and immune status of organisms. It has been suggested that some marine turtles are capital breeders that fast during the nesting season. In this study, we documented serum proteins in neophyte and remigrant nesting leatherback sea turtles (Dermochelys coriacea). This allowed us to establish trends across the nesting season to determine whether these physiological parameters indicate if leatherbacks forage or fast while on nesting grounds. Using the biuret method and agarose gel electrophoresis, total serum protein (median = 5.0 g/dl) and protein fractions were quantified and include pre-albumin (median = 0.0 g/dl), albumin (median = 1.81 g/dl), α1-globulin (median = 0.90 g/dl), α2-globulin (median = 0.74 g/dl), total α-globulin (median = 1.64 g/dl), β-globulin (median = 0.56 g/dl), γ-globulin (median = 0.81 g/dl) and total globulin (median = 3.12 g/dl). The albumin:globulin ratio (median = 0.59) was also calculated. Confidence intervals (90%) were used to establish reference intervals. Total protein, albumin and total globulin concentrations declined in successive nesting events. Protein fractions declined at less significant rates or remained relatively constant during the nesting season. Here, we show that leatherbacks are most likely fasting during the nesting season. A minimal threshold of total serum protein concentrations of around 3.5–4.5 g/dl may physiologically signal the end of the season's nesting for individual leatherbacks. The results presented here lend further insight into the interaction between reproduction, fasting and energy reserves and will potentially improve the conservation and management of this imperiled species. PMID:27293623

Isolation and characterization of L-valine-degrading Candida maltosa DLPU-zpb for D-valine preparation from DL-valine.

PubMed

Zhang, C H; Xin, W T; Chen, M; Bi, Y; Gao, Z Q; Zhang, J

2015-11-01

To develop a practical process for D-valine preparation from DL-valine, L-valine was used as a sole source of carbon and nitrogen in basal minimal medium to isolate L-valine-degrading micro-organisms. A yeast strain DLPU-zpb was obtained, which showed asymmetric degrading activity against DL-valine. Based on the morphology, physiological and biochemical characteristics, and 26S rDNA D1/D2 domain sequence, strain DLPU-zpb was identified as Candida maltosa. The cells of this strain were used as a biocatalyst for eliminating the L-isomer from DL-valine. The L-isomer was completely degraded within 72 h under the conditions of 30°C, pH control at 6·0, 200 rev min(-1) and 50 g l(-1) DL-valine. The strain DLPU-zpb degraded L-valine effectively but not D-valine, and thus D-valine could be easily isolated from the resultant reaction mixture, which provides a new method for D-valine preparation from DL-valine. D-valine is an important raw material for medicines and its demand is increasing year by year. Several approaches for D-valine preparation have been reported, but none of them are likely to provide product at low cost. A newly isolated L-valine-degrading yeast strain Candida maltosa DLPU-zpb was described, which showed asymmetric degrading activity against DL-valine. Thus, a new and practical process for D-valine preparation from DL-valine could be developed. This is the first report of the asymmetric degrading ability of C. maltosa against DL-valine and D-valine preparation from DL-valine. © 2015 The Society for Applied Microbiology.

Chapter 8 Haemoglobin, ferritin and erythropoietin amongst UK adult dialysis patients in 2010: national and centre-specific analyses.

PubMed

Webb, Lynsey; Gilg, Julie; Wilkie, Martin

2012-01-01

The UK Renal Association (RA) and National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) have published clinical practice guidelines which include recommendations for management of anaemia in established renal failure. To determine the extent to which the guidelines for anaemia management are met in the UK. Quarterly data were obtained regarding haemoglobin (Hb) and factors that influence Hb from renal centres in England, Wales, Northern Ireland (EWNI) and the Scottish Renal Registry for the incident and prevalent renal replacement therapy (RRT) cohorts for 2010. In the UK, in 2010 53.6% of patients commenced dialysis therapy with Hb ≥ 10.0 g/dl (median Hb 10.1 g/dl). The median Hb of haemodialysis (HD) patients was 11.5 g/dl with an interquartile range (IQR) of 10.5-12.3 g/dl. Of HD patients 84.6% had Hb ≥ 10.0 g/dl. The median Hb of peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients in the UK was 11.6 g/dl (IQR 10.6-12.5 g/dl). Of UK PD patients, 87.2% had Hb ≥ 10.0 g/dl. The median ferritin in HD patients in EWNI was 444 µg/L (IQR 299-635) and 96% of HD patients had a ferritin ≥ 100 µg/L. The median ferritin in PD patients was 264 µg/L (IQR 148-426) with 86% of PD patients having a ferritin ≥ 100 µg/L. In EWNI the mean Erythropoietin Stimulating Agent (ESA) dose was higher for HD than PD patients (9,020 vs. 6,202 IU/week). Of prevalent HD patients, 52.7% had Hb ≥ 10 and ≤ 12 g/dl. Of prevalent PD patients, 54.3% had Hb 10.5-12.5 g/dl. Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Digital Competence Model of Distance Learning Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

da Silva, Ketia Kellen A.; Behar, Patricia A.

2017-01-01

This article presents the development of a digital competency model of Distance Learning (DL) students in Brazil called CompDigAl_EAD. The following topics were addressed in this study: Educational Competences, Digital Competences, and Distance Learning students. The model was developed between 2015 and 2016 and is being validated in 2017. It was…

The utility of ductal lavage in breast cancer detection and risk assessment

PubMed Central

Domchek, Susan M

2002-01-01

Ductal lavage (DL) permits noninvasive retrieval of epithelial cells from the breast. Clinical development of this technique has been fueled largely by its potential, as yet unproven, to improve detection of breast cancer and definition of individual risk for development of breast cancer. Early studies demonstrate the feasibility of performing this technique, provide data on cellular yield and findings, and demonstrate the ability to measure molecular markers in DL fluid. However, the sensitivity and specificity of DL for the detection of breast cancer remains unknown, as does the significance of atypia, particularly mild atypia, when found in DL fluid. Although DL appears safe and the device is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, DL is still best utilized in the setting of clinical trials designed to resolve issues of sensitivity, specificity, and localization. PMID:11879562

PLASMA ELECTROPHORETIC PROFILES IN THE EASTERN MASSASAUGA (SISTRURUS CATENATUS) AND INFLUENCES OF AGE, SEX, YEAR, LOCATION, AND SNAKE FUNGAL DISEASE.

PubMed

Allender, Matthew C; Junge, Randall E; Baker-Wylie, Sarah; Hileman, Eric T; Faust, Lisa J; Cray, Carolyn

2015-12-01

The purpose of this study was to establish reference intervals of the protein electrophoretic fractions and the acute-phase proteins hemoglobin binding protein (as determined by the haptoglobin assay) and C-reactive protein (CRP) and assess any possible correlations between varying age class, sex, location (Illinois or Michigan), year, or presence of snake fungal disease (SFD). Banked plasma samples were assayed from 130 eastern massasaugas from 2009 to 2014 in Illinois and Michigan. Snakes from Michigan had higher total protein (mean: 5.50 g/dl), albumin/globulin ratio (0.42), albumin (1.59 g/dl), and gamma globulins (0.55 g/dl) than from snakes in Illinois (4.72 g/dl, 0.29, 1.03 g/dl, 0.38 g/dl, respectively). Snakes in Illinois (22.19 g/ml) had higher CRP than snakes in Michigan (10.89 mg/ml). Adults had higher gamma globulins (0.47 g/dl) than juveniles (0.28 g/dl). Males had higher alpha-2 globulins (0.98 g/dl) and CRP (21.4 mg/ml) than females (0.85, 11.6, respectively). There were no significant differences in absolute plasma proteins in SFD-positive snakes, but the percentage of gamma globulins was significantly higher in positive snakes. Future research in this area can now build on this data to determine changes in population health over time or due to specific environmental or disease threats.

Toward an injectable continuous osmotic glucose sensor.

PubMed

Johannessen, Erik; Krushinitskaya, Olga; Sokolov, Andrey; Philipp, Häfliger; Hoogerwerf, Arno; Hinderling, Christian; Kautio, Kari; Lenkkeri, Jaakko; Strömmer, Esko; Kondratyev, Vasily; Tønnessen, Tor Inge; Mollnes, Tom Eirik; Jakobsen, Henrik; Zimmer, Even; Akselsen, Bengt

2010-07-01

The growing pandemic of diabetes mellitus places a stringent social and economic burden on the society. A tight glycemic control circumvents the detrimental effects, but the prerogative is the development of new more effective tools capable of longterm tracking of blood glucose (BG) in vivo. Such discontinuous sensor technologies will benefit from an unprecedented marked potential as well as reducing the current life expectancy gap of eight years as part of a therapeutic regime. A sensor technology based on osmotic pressure incorporates a reversible competitive affinity assay performing glucose-specific recognition. An absolute change in particles generates a pressure that is proportional to the glucose concentration. An integrated pressure transducer and components developed from the silicon micro- and nanofabrication industry translate this pressure into BG data. An in vitro model based on a 3.6 x 8.7 mm large pill-shaped implant is equipped with a nanoporous membrane holding 4-6 nm large pores. The affinity assay offers a dynamic range of 36-720 mg/dl with a resolution of +/-16 mg/dl. An integrated 1 x 1 mm(2) large control chip samples the sensor signals for data processing and transmission back to the reader at a total power consumption of 76 microW. Current studies have demonstrated the design, layout, and performance of a prototype osmotic sensor in vitro using an affinity assay solution for up to four weeks. The small physical size conforms to an injectable device, forming the basis of a conceptual monitor that offers a tight glycemic control of BG. 2010 Diabetes Technology Society.

Pulmonary function levels as predictors of mortality in a national sample of US adults.

PubMed

Neas, L M; Schwartz, J

1998-06-01

Single breath pulmonary diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DL(CO)) was examined as a predictor of all-cause mortality among 4,333 subjects who were aged 25-74 years at baseline in the First National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES I) conducted from 1971 to 1975. The relation of the percentage of predicted DL(CO) to all-cause mortality was examined in a Cox proportional hazard model that included age, sex, race, current smoking status, systolic blood pressure, serum cholesterol, alcohol consumption, body mass index, percentage of predicted forced vital capacity (FVC), and the ratio of forced expiratory volume at 1 second (FEV1) to FVC. Mortality had a linear association with the percentage of predicted FVC (rate ratio (RR) = 1.12, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08-1.17, for a 10% decrement) and a significantly nonlinear association with the percentage of predicted DL(CO) with an adverse effect that was clearly evident for levels below 85% of those predicted (RR = 1.24, 95% CI 1.12-1.37 for a 10% decrement). The relative hazard for the percentage of predicted DL(CO) below 85% was not modified by sex, smoking status, or exclusion of subjects with clinical respiratory disease on the initial examination. This association with the percentage of predicted DL(CO) was present among 3,005 subjects with FEV1 levels above 90% of those predicted. Thus, pulmonary diffusing capacity below 85% of predicted levels is a significant predictor of the all-cause mortality rate within the general US population independent of standard spirometry measures and even in the absence of apparent clinical respiratory disease.

DL_MG: A Parallel Multigrid Poisson and Poisson-Boltzmann Solver for Electronic Structure Calculations in Vacuum and Solution.

PubMed

Womack, James C; Anton, Lucian; Dziedzic, Jacek; Hasnip, Phil J; Probert, Matt I J; Skylaris, Chris-Kriton

2018-03-13

The solution of the Poisson equation is a crucial step in electronic structure calculations, yielding the electrostatic potential-a key component of the quantum mechanical Hamiltonian. In recent decades, theoretical advances and increases in computer performance have made it possible to simulate the electronic structure of extended systems in complex environments. This requires the solution of more complicated variants of the Poisson equation, featuring nonhomogeneous dielectric permittivities, ionic concentrations with nonlinear dependencies, and diverse boundary conditions. The analytic solutions generally used to solve the Poisson equation in vacuum (or with homogeneous permittivity) are not applicable in these circumstances, and numerical methods must be used. In this work, we present DL_MG, a flexible, scalable, and accurate solver library, developed specifically to tackle the challenges of solving the Poisson equation in modern large-scale electronic structure calculations on parallel computers. Our solver is based on the multigrid approach and uses an iterative high-order defect correction method to improve the accuracy of solutions. Using two chemically relevant model systems, we tested the accuracy and computational performance of DL_MG when solving the generalized Poisson and Poisson-Boltzmann equations, demonstrating excellent agreement with analytic solutions and efficient scaling to ∼10 9 unknowns and 100s of CPU cores. We also applied DL_MG in actual large-scale electronic structure calculations, using the ONETEP linear-scaling electronic structure package to study a 2615 atom protein-ligand complex with routinely available computational resources. In these calculations, the overall execution time with DL_MG was not significantly greater than the time required for calculations using a conventional FFT-based solver.

Association between oral nutritional supplementation and clinical outcomes among patients with ESRD.

PubMed

Cheu, Christine; Pearson, Jeffrey; Dahlerus, Claudia; Lantz, Brett; Chowdhury, Tania; Sauer, Peter F; Farrell, Robert E; Port, Friedrich K; Ramirez, Sylvia P B

2013-01-01

Oral nutritional supplementation (ONS) was provided to ESRD patients with hypoalbuminemia as part of Fresenius Medical Care Health Plan's (FMCHP) disease management. This study evaluated the association between FMCHP's ONS program and clinical outcomes. Analyses included FMCHP patients with ONS indication (n=470) defined as 2-month mean albumin <3.8 g/dl until reaching a 3-month mean ≥3.8 g/dl from February 1, 2006 to December 31, 2008. Patients did not receive ONS if deemed inappropriate or refused. Patients on ONS were compared with patients who were not, despite meeting ONS indication. Patients with ONS indication regardless of use were compared with Medicare patients with similar serum albumin levels from the 2007 Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Clinical Performance Measures Project (CPM). Cox models calculated adjusted hospitalization and mortality risks at 1 year. Among patients with indication for ONS, 276 received supplements and 194 did not. ONS use was associated with 0.058 g/dl higher serum albumin overall (P=0.02); this difference decreased by 0.001 g/dl each month (P=0.05) such that the difference was 0.052 g/dl (P=0.04) in month 6 and the difference was no longer significant in month 12 . In analyses based on ONS use, ONS patients had lower hospitalization at 1 year (68.4%; P<0.01) versus patients without ONS (88.7%), but there was no significant reduction in mortality risk (P=0.29). In analyses based on ONS indication, patients with indication had lower mortality at 1 year (16.2%) compared with CPM patients (23.4%; P<0.01). These findings suggest that ONS use was associated with significantly lower hospitalization rates but had no significant effect on mortality in a disease management setting.

Interruption of antiretroviral therapy is associated with increased plasma cystatin C.

PubMed

Mocroft, Amanda; Wyatt, Christina; Szczech, Lynda; Neuhaus, Jacquie; El-Sadr, Wafaa; Tracy, Russell; Kuller, Lewis; Shlipak, Michael; Angus, Brian; Klinker, Harting; Ross, Michael

2009-01-02

Cystatin C has been proposed as an alternative marker of renal function. We sought to determine whether participants randomized to episodic use of antiretroviral therapy guided by CD4 cell count (drug conservation) had altered cystatin C levels compared with those randomized to continuous antiretroviral therapy (viral suppression) in the Strategies for Management of Antiretroviral Therapy trial, and to identify factors associated with increased cystatin C. Cystatin C was measured in plasma collected at randomization, 1, 2, 4, 8 and 12 months after randomization in a random sample of 249 and 250 participants in the drug conservation and viral suppression groups, respectively. Logistic regression was used to model the odds of at least 0.15 mg/dl increase in cystatin C (1 SD) in the first month after randomization, adjusting for demographic and clinical characteristics. At randomization, mean (SD) cystatin C level was 0.99 (0.26 mg/dl) and 1.01 (0.28 mg/dl) in the drug conservation and viral suppression arms, respectively (P = 0.29). In the first month after randomization, 21.8 and 10.6% had at least 0.15 mg/dl increase in cystatin C in the drug conservation and viral suppression arms, respectively (P = 0.0008). The difference in cystatin C between the treatment arms was maintained through 1 year after randomization. After adjustment, participants in the viral suppression arm had significantly reduced odds of at least 0.15 mg/dl increase in cystatin C in the first month (odds ratio 0.42; 95% confidence interval 0.23-0.74, P = 0.0023). These results demonstrate that interruption of antiretroviral therapy is associated with an increase in cystatin C, which may reflect worsened renal function.

Lead exposure in Mexican radiator repair workers.

PubMed

Dykeman, Ronald; Aguilar-Madrid, Guadalupe; Smith, Tom; Juárez-Pérez, Cuauhtemoc Arturo; Piacitelli, Gregory M; Hu, Howard; Hernandez-Avila, Mauricio

2002-03-01

Lead exposure was investigated among 73 Mexican radiator repair workers (RRWs), 12 members of their family (4 children and 8 wives), and 36 working controls. RRWs were employed at 4 radiator repair shops in Mexico City and 27 shops in Cuernavaca and surrounding areas. Exposure was assessed directly through the use of personal air sampling and hand wipe samples. In addition, industrial hygiene inspections were performed and detailed questionnaires were administered. Blood lead levels were measured by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The mean (SD) values for blood lead of the RRWs, 35.5 (13.5) microg/dl, was significantly greater than the same values for the working controls, 13.6 (8.7) microg/dl; P < 001. After excluding a single outlier (247 microg/m(3)), air lead levels ranged from 0 to 99 microg/m(3) with a mean (SD) value of 19 (23) microg/m(3) (median = 7.9 microg/m(3)). In a final multivariate regression model of elevated blood lead levels, the strongest predictors were smoking (vs. non-smoking), the number of radiators repaired per day on average, and the use (vs. non-use) of a uniform while at work, which were associated with blood lead elevations of 11.4 microg/dl, 1.95 microg/dl/radiator/day, and 16.4 microg/dl, respectively (all P <.05). Uniform use was probably a risk factor because they were not laundered regularly and consequently served as reservoir of contamination on which RRWs frequently wiped their hands. Lead exposure is a significant problem of radiator repair work, a small industry that is abundant in Mexico and other developing countries. Copyright 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Length-displacement scaling of thrust faults on the Moon and the formation of uphill-facing scarps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roggon, Lars; Hetzel, Ralf; Hiesinger, Harald; Clark, Jaclyn D.; Hampel, Andrea; van der Bogert, Carolyn H.

2017-08-01

Fault populations on terrestrial planets exhibit a linear relationship between their length, L, and the maximum displacement, D, which implies a constant D/L ratio during fault growth. Although it is known that D/L ratios of faults are typically a few percent on Earth and 0.2-0.8% on Mars and Mercury, the D/L ratios of lunar faults are not well characterized. Quantifying the D/L ratios of faults on the Moon is, however, crucial for a better understanding of lunar tectonics, including for studies of the amount of global lunar contraction. Here, we use high-resolution digital terrain models to perform a topographic analysis of four lunar thrust faults - Simpelius-1, Morozov (S1), Fowler, and Racah X-1 - that range in length from 1.3 km to 15.4 km. First, we determine the along-strike variation of the vertical displacement from ≥ 20 topographic profiles across each fault. For measuring the vertical displacements, we use a method that is commonly applied to fault scarps on Earth and that does not require detrending of the profiles. The resulting profiles show that the displacement changes gradually along these faults' strike, with maximum vertical displacements ranging from 17 ± 2 m for Simpelius-1 to 192 ± 30 m for Racah X-1. Assuming a fault dip of 30° yields maximum total displacements (D) that are twice as large as the vertical displacements. The linear relationship between D and L supports the inference that lunar faults gradually accumulate displacement as they propagate laterally. For the faults we investigated, the D/L ratio is ∼2.3%, an order of magnitude higher than theoretical predictions for the Moon, but a value similar for faults on Earth. We also employ finite-element modeling and a Mohr circle stress analysis to investigate why many lunar thrust faults, including three of those studied here, form uphill-facing scarps. Our analysis shows that fault slip is preferentially initiated on planes that dip in the same direction as the topography, because the reduced overburden increases the differential stress on prospective fault planes, and hence, promotes failure. Our findings highlight the need for quantifying vertical displacements of more lunar thrust-fault scarps with the methodology employed in this study, rather than relying only on measurements of local relief, which result in D/L ratios that tend to be too low.

Germination of Phaseolus vulgaris. II. Stimulation of axis growth by dl-fluorophenylalanines

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

Walton, D.C.

p-, o- and m-fluoro-dl-phenylalanine have been found to stimulate the growth of excised axes of Phaseolus vulgaris. At 5 x 10/sup -4/ m p-fluoro-dl-phenylalanine stimulated growth by 20 to 40% and the other 2 isomers by 10 to 20%. L-Phenylalanine (10/sup -3/ M) essentially reversed the stimulation by 5 x 10/sup -4/ M p-fluoro-dl-phenylalanine.

Metabolic Derangement in Acute and Chronic Liver Disorders.

PubMed

Bajaj, Sarita; Kashyap, Richi; Srivastava, Anubha; Singh, Smriti

2017-01-01

This study aims to assess glycemic and lipid derangement in acute and chronic liver disorders. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 104 patients diagnosed with acute or chronic liver disorder. Acute liver disease (ALD) patients were 40 and chronic liver disease (CLD) patients were 64. The mean value of fasting plasma glucose (FPG) in patients with ALD was 91.8 ± 5.4 mg/dl and in CLD was 115.7 ± 17.9 mg/dl, the difference was significant. The mean value of A1c was 4.3 ± 0.6 in ALD and 6.1 ± 0.8 in CLD, the difference was significant. In patients with CLD mean cholesterol was higher 177.4 ± 28.8 mg/dl when compared to ALD 140 ± 35.1 mg/dl, but the difference was not significant. ALD patients' high-density lipoprotein (HDL) was 50.4 ± 5.1 mg/dl, and in CLD patients, HDL was 44.4 ± 6.1 mg/dl. In CLD mean triglyceride (T) was 148.9 ± 6.4 mg/dl while in ALD T was 134.8 ± 14.2 mg/dl, the difference was significant. CLD is associated with glycemic derangement demonstrated by deranged FPG and A1c. In patients of ALD, no metabolic derangement was observed.

High lead exposure and auditory sensory-neural function in Andean children.

PubMed Central

Counter, S A; Vahter, M; Laurell, G; Buchanan, L H; Ortega, F; Skerfving, S

1997-01-01

We investigated blood lead (B-Pb) and mercury (B-Hg) levels and auditory sensory-neural function in 62 Andean school children living in a Pb-contaminated area of Ecuador and 14 children in a neighboring gold mining area with no known Pb exposure. The median B-Pb level for 62 children in the Pb-exposed group was 52.6 micrograms/dl (range 9.9-110.0 micrograms/dl) compared with 6.4 micrograms/dl (range 3.9-12.0 micrograms/dl) for the children in the non-Pb exposed group; the differences were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Auditory thresholds for the Pb-exposed group were normal at the pure tone frequencies of 0.25-8 kHz over the entire range of B-Pb levels, Auditory brain stem response tests in seven children with high B-Pb levels showed normal absolute peak and interpeak latencies. The median B-Hg levels were 0.16 micrograms/dl (range 0.04-0.58 micrograms/dl) for children in the Pb-exposed group and 0.22 micrograms/dl (range 0.1-0.44 micrograms/dl) for children in the non-Pb exposed gold mining area, and showed no significant relationship to auditory function. Images Figure 1. Figure 3. A Figure 3. B PMID:9222138

A Scalable Framework for CSI Feedback in FDD Massive MIMO via DL Path Aligning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Xiliang; Cai, Penghao; Zhang, Xiaoyu; Hu, Die; Shen, Cong

2017-09-01

Unlike the time-division duplexing (TDD) systems, the downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) channels are not reciprocal anymore in the case of frequency-division duplexing (FDD). However, some long-term parameters, e.g. the time delays and angles of arrival (AoAs) of the channel paths, still enjoy reciprocity. In this paper, by efficiently exploiting the aforementioned limited reciprocity, we address the DL channel state information (CSI) feedback in a practical wideband massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) system operating in the FDD mode. With orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) waveform and assuming frequency-selective fading channels, we propose a scalable framework for the DL pilots design, DL CSI acquisition, and the corresponding CSI feedback in the UL. In particular, the base station (BS) can transmit the FFT-based pilots with the carefully-selected phase shifts. Then the user can rely on the so-called time-domain aggregate channel (TAC) to derive the feedback of reduced imensionality according to either its own knowledge about the statistics of the DL channels or the instruction from the serving BS. We demonstrate that each user can just feed back one scalar number per DL channel path for the BS to recover the DL CSIs. Comprehensive numerical results further corroborate our designs.

Comparing CMIP-3 and CMIP-5 climate projections on flooding estimation of Devils Lake of North Dakota, USA

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

Background Water level fluctuations in endorheic lakes are highly susceptible to even slight changes in climate and land use. Devils Lake (DL) in North Dakota, USA is an endorheic system that has undergone multi-decade flooding driven by changes in regional climate. Flooding mitigation strategies have centered on the release of lake water to a nearby river system through artificial outlets, resulting in legal challenges and environmental concerns related to water quality, downstream flooding, species migration, stakeholder opposition, and transboundary water conflicts between the US and Canada. Despite these drawbacks, running outlets would result in low overspill risks in the next 30 years. Methods In this study we evaluated the efficacy of this outlet-based mitigation strategy under scenarios based on the latest IPCC future climate projections. We used the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project CMIP-5 weather patterns from 17 general circulation models (GCMs) obtained under four representative concentration pathways (RCP) scenarios and downscaled to the DL region. Then, we simulated the changes in lake water levels using the soil and water assessment tool based hydrological model of the watershed. We estimated the probability of future flood risks under those scenarios and compared those with previously estimated overspill risks under the CMIP-3 climate. Results The CMIP-5 ensemble projected a mean annual temperature of 5.78 °C and mean daily precipitation of 1.42 mm/day; both are higher than the existing CMIP-3 future estimates of 4.98 °C and 1.40 mm/day, respectively. The increased precipitation and higher temperature resulted in a significant increase of DL’s overspill risks: 24.4–47.1% without release from outlets and 3.5–14.4% even if the outlets are operated at their combined full 17 m3/s capacity. Discussion The modeled increases in overspill risks indicate a greater frequency of water releases through the artificial outlets. Future risk mitigation management should include providing a flood warning signal to local resource managers, and tasking policy makers to identify additional solution measures such as land use management in the upper watershed to mitigate DL’s flooding. PMID:29736343

Integrative Cardiac Health Project (ICHP)

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-01

Body Mass Index 88 30.92 (6.1) 30.16 (6.0) -0.8 ɘ.00001 Total Cholesterol (mg/dl) 85 187.59 (39.4) 184.28 (37.5) -3.3 0.2845 High Density ...0.001 Total Cholesterol (mg/dl) 61 189.41 (42.4) 178.25 (38.1) -11.2 ɘ.05 High Density Lipids (mg/dl) 61 49.28 (13.7) 48.44 (12.8) -0.8 0.3427 Low...3.8) -1.1 ɘ.01 Total Cholesterol (mg/dl) 14 179.14 (46.2) 175.29 (43.6) -3.9 0.6836 High Density Lipids (mg/dl) 14 52.36 (10.8) 49.21 (7.2) -3.1

Forecasting influenza in Hong Kong with Google search queries and statistical model fusion

PubMed Central

Ramirez Ramirez, L. Leticia; Nezafati, Kusha; Zhang, Qingpeng; Tsui, Kwok-Leung

2017-01-01

Background The objective of this study is to investigate predictive utility of online social media and web search queries, particularly, Google search data, to forecast new cases of influenza-like-illness (ILI) in general outpatient clinics (GOPC) in Hong Kong. To mitigate the impact of sensitivity to self-excitement (i.e., fickle media interest) and other artifacts of online social media data, in our approach we fuse multiple offline and online data sources. Methods Four individual models: generalized linear model (GLM), least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA), and deep learning (DL) with Feedforward Neural Networks (FNN) are employed to forecast ILI-GOPC both one week and two weeks in advance. The covariates include Google search queries, meteorological data, and previously recorded offline ILI. To our knowledge, this is the first study that introduces deep learning methodology into surveillance of infectious diseases and investigates its predictive utility. Furthermore, to exploit the strength from each individual forecasting models, we use statistical model fusion, using Bayesian model averaging (BMA), which allows a systematic integration of multiple forecast scenarios. For each model, an adaptive approach is used to capture the recent relationship between ILI and covariates. Results DL with FNN appears to deliver the most competitive predictive performance among the four considered individual models. Combing all four models in a comprehensive BMA framework allows to further improve such predictive evaluation metrics as root mean squared error (RMSE) and mean absolute predictive error (MAPE). Nevertheless, DL with FNN remains the preferred method for predicting locations of influenza peaks. Conclusions The proposed approach can be viewed a feasible alternative to forecast ILI in Hong Kong or other countries where ILI has no constant seasonal trend and influenza data resources are limited. The proposed methodology is easily tractable and computationally efficient. PMID:28464015

[Obesity, high blood pressure, hypercholesterolaemia, and untreated diabetes in HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected Adults in Mbuji-Mayi (Democratic republic of congo)].

PubMed

Mukeba-Tshialala, D; Nachega, J B; Mutombo-Tshingwali, M; Arendt, V; Gilson, G; Moutschen, M

2017-12-01

Little is known about the major cardiovascular risk factors in HIV-infected as compared to the HIV-uninfected patients in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). We determined the prevalence of hypertension, obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m 2 ), total cholesterol > 200 mg/dl, HDLcholesterol &≤ 40 mg/dl, and glycemia > 126 mg/dl. We also calculated the average and/or median of total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, and glycemia among HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected patients.We conducted a cross-sectional study that enrolled 592 HIV-uninfected and 445 HIV-infected patients of whom 425 (95.5%) were on first-line antiretroviral therapy based on stavudine-lamivudine-nevirapine. Clinical and laboratory data of the patients were collected. The results were analyzed by chi-square, t-student, and Wilcoxon rank sum tests. 11.5% of HIV-infected patients had an average blood pressure suggesting hypertension versus 10.6% of HIV-uninfected (P = 0.751). But in absolute value, HIVinfected patients had a median of diastolic blood pressure of 90 mmHg versus 85 mmHg of HIV-uninfected (P < 0.001). 4.04% of HIV-infected patients had a BMI suggesting obesity versus 6.08% of HIV-uninfected patients (P = 0.187). For fasting glucose: 2.50% of HIV-infected patients versus 4.20% of HIV-uninfected patients had a serum fasting glucose suggesting diabetes (P<0.176). 11.9% of HIV-infected patients had a total cholesterol greater than 200 mg/dl versus 7.4% of HIVuninfected patients (P=0.019). For HDL-cholesterol: 36.40% of HIV-infected patients had a serum fasting ≤ 40 mg/dl versus 15.70% of HIV-uninfected patients (P < 0.001). HIV-infected patients had a median fasting total cholesterol higher (140 mg/ dl) thanHIV-uninfected patients (133mg/dl) [P=0.015].HIVuninfected patients had a median fasting HDL-cholesterol higher (58.5 mg/dl) than HIV-infected patients (49 mg/dl) [P < 0.001]. HIV-infected women were more likely to have a higher mean of total cholesterol: 147.70 #x00B1; 52.09 mg/dl versus 135.72 ± 48.23 mg/dl for the HIV-infected men (P = 0.014) and of HDL-cholesterol: 55.80 ± 30.77 mg/dl versus 48.24 ± 28.57mg/dl for the HIV-infected men (P = 0.008). In this study population, prevalence of hypertension was elevated in HIVinfected versus HIV-uninfected patients. Being HIV positive on first-line antiretroviral therapy based on stavudine-lamivudine-nevirapine was associated with high prevalence of total cholesterol > 200 mg/dl and HDL-cholesterol ≤ 40 mg/dl. Proactive screening and prompt management of dyslipidemia and hypertension in this population should be a priority.

Impact of transcranial direct current stimulation on attentional bias for threat: a proof-of-concept study among individuals with social anxiety disorder

PubMed Central

Billieux, Joël; Philippot, Pierre; De Raedt, Rudi; Baeken, Chris; de Timary, Philippe; Maurage, Pierre; Vanderhasselt, Marie-Anne

2017-01-01

Abstract Cognitive models posit that social anxiety disorder (SAD) is associated with and maintained by attentional bias (AB) for social threat. However, over the last years, it has been suggested that AB in SAD may result from a decreased activation of the left prefrontal cortex, and particularly of its dorsolateral part (dlPFC). Accordingly, a transient increase of neural activity within the left dlPFC via non-invasive brain stimulation decreases AB in non-anxious control participants. Yet, none of these studies focused on SAD. This is especially unfortunate as SAD constitutes the main target for which a genuine reduction of AB may be most appropriate. In this experiment, we sought to investigate the causal influence of left dlPFC neuromodulation on AB among 19 female individuals with a DSM-5 diagnosis of SAD. We adopted a double-blind within-subject protocol in which we delivered a single-session of anodal versus sham transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) over the left dlPFC during the completion of a probe discrimination task assessing AB. Consistent with our hypothesis, participants demonstrated a significant decrease in AB during the anodal tDCS over the left DLPFC relative to the sham stimulation. These findings value tDCS as an innovative procedure to gain new insight into the underlying mechanisms of SAD. PMID:27531388

Sparsity-constrained PET image reconstruction with learned dictionaries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Jing; Yang, Bao; Wang, Yanhua; Ying, Leslie

2016-09-01

PET imaging plays an important role in scientific and clinical measurement of biochemical and physiological processes. Model-based PET image reconstruction such as the iterative expectation maximization algorithm seeking the maximum likelihood solution leads to increased noise. The maximum a posteriori (MAP) estimate removes divergence at higher iterations. However, a conventional smoothing prior or a total-variation (TV) prior in a MAP reconstruction algorithm causes over smoothing or blocky artifacts in the reconstructed images. We propose to use dictionary learning (DL) based sparse signal representation in the formation of the prior for MAP PET image reconstruction. The dictionary to sparsify the PET images in the reconstruction process is learned from various training images including the corresponding MR structural image and a self-created hollow sphere. Using simulated and patient brain PET data with corresponding MR images, we study the performance of the DL-MAP algorithm and compare it quantitatively with a conventional MAP algorithm, a TV-MAP algorithm, and a patch-based algorithm. The DL-MAP algorithm achieves improved bias and contrast (or regional mean values) at comparable noise to what the other MAP algorithms acquire. The dictionary learned from the hollow sphere leads to similar results as the dictionary learned from the corresponding MR image. Achieving robust performance in various noise-level simulation and patient studies, the DL-MAP algorithm with a general dictionary demonstrates its potential in quantitative PET imaging.

Deep learning approaches for detection and removal of ghosting artifacts in MR spectroscopy.

PubMed

Kyathanahally, Sreenath P; Döring, André; Kreis, Roland

2018-09-01

To make use of deep learning (DL) methods to detect and remove ghosting artifacts in clinical magnetic resonance spectra of human brain. Deep learning algorithms, including fully connected neural networks, deep-convolutional neural networks, and stacked what-where auto encoders, were implemented to detect and correct MR spectra containing spurious echo ghost signals. The DL methods were trained on a huge database of simulated spectra with and without ghosting artifacts that represent complex variations of ghost-ridden spectra, transformed to time-frequency spectrograms. The trained model was tested on simulated and in vivo spectra. The preliminary results for ghost detection are very promising, reaching almost 100% accuracy, and the DL ghost removal methods show potential in simulated and in vivo spectra, but need further refinement and quantitative testing. Ghosting artifacts in spectroscopy are problematic, as they superimpose with metabolites and lead to inaccurate quantification. Detection and removal of ghosting artifacts using traditional machine learning approaches with feature extraction/selection is difficult, as ghosts appear at different frequencies. Here, we show that DL methods perform extremely well for ghost detection if the spectra are treated as images in the form of time-frequency representations. Further optimization for in vivo spectra will hopefully confirm their "ghostbusting" capacity. Magn Reson Med 80:851-863, 2018. © 2018 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2018 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Weight loss and jaundice in healthy term newborns in partial and full rooming-in.

PubMed

Zuppa, Antonio Alberto; Sindico, Paola; Antichi, Eleonora; Carducci, Chiara; Alighieri, Giovanni; Cardiello, Valentina; Cota, Francesco; Romagnoli, Costantino

2009-09-01

An inadequate start of breastfeeding has been associated with reduced caloric intake, excessive weight loss and high serum bilirubin levels in the first days of life. The rooming-in has been proposed as an optimal model for the promotion of breastfeeding. The aim of this study was to compare two different feeding models (partial and full rooming-in) to evaluate differences as regard to weight loss, hyperbilirubinemia and prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding at discharge. A total of 903 healthy term newborns have been evaluated; all the newborns were adequate for gestational age, with birth weight > or = 2800 g and gestational age > or = 37 weeks. The maximum weight loss (mean +/- SD), expressed as percent of birth weight, was not different in the two models (partial vs. full rooming-in 5.8% +/- 1.7%vs. 6% +/- 1.7%). A weight loss > or = 10% occurred in less than 1% in both groups. There were no statistical differences neither as mean of total serum bilirubin (partial vs. full rooming-in 10.5 +/- 3.3 vs. 10.1 +/- 2.9 mg/dl), nor as prevalence of hyperbilirubinemia (total serum bilirubin > or = 12 mg/dl). The prevalence of severe hyperbilirubinemia (total serum bilirubin > or = 18 mg/dl) and the use of phototherapy were not statistically different. Maximum weight loss was similar in the two models, even dividing by total serum bilirubin levels. At the discharge, exclusively breastfed newborns were 81% in full rooming-in and 42.9% in partial rooming-in. In conclusion, our results allow considering our assistance models similar as regards to severe hyperbilirubinemia and pathological weight loss in term healthy newborns even if full rooming-in is associated with higher prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding at the discharge.

David Young | NREL

Science.gov Websites

(HVPE) growth of III-V materials for high-efficiency 1-sun to low-concentration solar cell applications growth, 2011. Timothy, J.C., D.L. Young, and T.A. Gessert, Modeling, Characterization, and Properties of

Simulation of double layers in a model auroral circuit with nonlinear impedance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, R. A.

1986-01-01

A reduced circuit description of the U-shaped potential structure of a discrete auroral arc, consisting of the flank transmission line plus parallel-electric-field region, is used to provide the boundary condition for one-dimensional simulations of the double-layer evolution. The model yields asymptotic scalings of the double-layer potential, as a function of an anomalous transport coefficient alpha and of the perpendicular length scale l(a) of the arc. The arc potential phi(DL) scales approximately linearly with alpha, and for alpha fixed phi (DL) about l(a) to the z power. Using parameters appropriate to the auroral zone acceleration region, potentials of phi (DPL) 10 kV scale to projected ionospheric dimensions of about 1 km, with power flows of the order of magnitude of substorm dissipation rates.

The change of longitudinal relaxation rate in oxygen enhanced pulmonary MRI depends on age and BMI but not diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide in healthy never-smokers.

PubMed

Kindvall, Simon Sven Ivan; Diaz, Sandra; Svensson, Jonas; Wollmer, Per; Olsson, Lars E

2017-01-01

Oxygen enhanced pulmonary MRI is a promising modality for functional lung studies and has been applied to a wide range of pulmonary conditions. The purpose of this study was to characterize the oxygen enhancement effect in the lungs of healthy, never-smokers, in light of a previously established relationship between oxygen enhancement and diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide in the lung (DL,CO) in patients with lung disease. In 30 healthy never-smoking volunteers, an inversion recovery with gradient echo read-out (Snapshot-FLASH) was used to quantify the difference in longitudinal relaxation rate, while breathing air and 100% oxygen, ΔR1, at 1.5 Tesla. Measurements were performed under multiple tidal inspiration breath-holds. In single parameter linear models, ΔR1 exhibit a significant correlation with age (p = 0.003) and BMI (p = 0.0004), but not DL,CO (p = 0.33). Stepwise linear regression of ΔR1 yields an optimized model including an age-BMI interaction term. In this healthy, never-smoking cohort, age and BMI are both predictors of the change in MRI longitudinal relaxation rate when breathing oxygen. However, DL,CO does not show a significant correlation with the oxygen enhancement. This is possibly because oxygen transfer in the lung is not diffusion limited at rest in healthy individuals. This work stresses the importance of using a physiological model to understand results from oxygen enhanced MRI.

CIRCULATING CONCENTRATIONS OF THYROID HORMONE IN BELUGA WHALES (DELPHINAPTERUS LEUCAS): INFLUENCE OF AGE, SEX, AND SEASON.

PubMed

Flower, Jennifer E; Allender, Matthew C; Giovanelli, Richard P; Summers, Sandra D; Spoon, Tracey R; St Leger, Judy A; Goertz, Caroline E C; Dunn, J Lawrence; Romano, Tracy A; Hobbs, Roderick C; Tuttle, Allison D

2015-09-01

Thyroid hormones play a critical physiologic role in regulating protein synthesis, growth, and metabolism. To date, because no published compilation of baseline values for thyroid hormones in beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas) exists, assessment of thyroid hormone concentrations in this species has been underused in clinical settings. The purpose of this study was to document the concentrations of total thyroxine (tT4) and total triiodothyronine (tT3) in healthy aquarium-maintained and free-ranging beluga whales and to determine the influence of age, sex, and season on the thyroid hormone concentrations. Archived serum samples were collected from healthy aquarium-maintained (n=43) and free-ranging (n=39) belugas, and serum tT4 and tT3 were measured using chemiluminescence immunoassay. The mean tT4 concentration in aquarium-maintained belugas was 5.67±1.43 μg/dl and the mean tT3 concentration was 70.72±2.37 ng/dl. Sex comparisons showed that aquarium-maintained males had significantly greater tT4 and tT3 (9.70±4.48 μg/dl and 92.65±30.55 ng/dl, respectively) than females (7.18±2.82 μg/dl and 77.95±20.37 ng/dl) (P=0.004 and P=0.013). Age comparisons showed that aquarium-maintained whales aged 1-5 yr had the highest concentrations of tT4 and tT3 (8.17±0.17 μg/dl and 105.46±1.98 ng/dl, respectively) (P=0.002 and P<0.001). tT4 concentrations differed significantly between seasons, with concentrations in winter (4.59±1.09 μg/dl) being significantly decreased compared with spring (P=0.009), summer (P<0.0001), and fall (P<0.0001) concentrations. There was a significant difference in tT4 and tT3 concentrations between aquarium-maintained whales (5.67±1.43 μg/dl and 70.72±15.57 ng/dl, respectively) and free-ranging whales (11.71±3.36 μg/dl and 103.38±26.45 ng/dl) (P<0.0001 and P<0.001). Clinicians should consider biologic and environmental influences (age, sex, and season) for a more accurate interpretation of thyroid hormone concentrations in belugas. The findings of this study provide a baseline for thyroid health monitoring and comprehensive health assessments in both aquarium-maintained and free-ranging beluga whales.

Comparison of the DiversiLab Repetitive Element PCR System with spa Typing and Pulsed-Field Gel Electrophoresis for Clonal Characterization of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus▿

PubMed Central

Babouee, B.; Frei, R.; Schultheiss, E.; Widmer, A. F.; Goldenberger, D.

2011-01-01

The emergence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has become an increasing problem worldwide in recent decades. Molecular typing methods have been developed to identify clonality of strains and monitor spread of MRSA. We compared a new commercially available DiversiLab (DL) repetitive element PCR system with spa typing, spa clonal cluster analysis, and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) in terms of discriminatory power and concordance. A collection of 106 well-defined MRSA strains from our hospital was analyzed, isolated between 1994 and 2006. In addition, we analyzed 6 USA300 strains collected in our institution. DL typing separated the 106 MRSA isolates in 10 distinct clusters and 8 singleton patterns. Clustering analysis into spa clonal complexes resulted in 3 clusters: spa-CC 067/548, spa-CC 008, and spa-CC 012. The discriminatory powers (Simpson's index of diversity) were 0.982, 0.950, 0.846, and 0.757 for PFGE, spa typing, DL typing, and spa clonal clustering, respectively. DL typing and spa clonal clustering showed the highest concordance, calculated by adjusted Rand's coefficients. The 6 USA300 isolates grouped homogeneously into distinct PFGE and DL clusters, and all belonged to spa type t008 and spa-CC 008. Among the three methods, DL proved to be rapid and easy to perform. DL typing qualifies for initial screening during outbreak investigation. However, compared to PFGE and spa typing, DL typing has limited discriminatory power and therefore should be complemented by more discriminative methods in isolates that share identical DL patterns. PMID:21307215

Comparison of Olympic and Hexagonal Barbells With Midthigh Pull, Deadlift, and Countermovement Jump.

PubMed

Malyszek, Kylie K; Harmon, RoQue A; Dunnick, Dustin D; Costa, Pablo B; Coburn, Jared W; Brown, Lee E

2017-01-01

Malyszek, KK, Harmon, RA, Dunnick, DD, Costa, PB, Coburn, JW, and Brown, LE. Comparison of olympic and hexagonal barbells with midthigh pull, deadlift, and countermovement jump. J Strength Cond Res 31(1): 140-145, 2017-Those training for strength and power commonly use different bars and different lifts. The hexagonal barbell (HBar) and Olympic barbell (OBar) are frequently used training implements, and the midthigh pull (MTP) and deadlift (DL) are 2 popular exercises. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare force between an HBar and OBar for a MTP, DL, and countermovement jump (CMJ). Twenty resistance-trained men (age = 24.05 ± 2.09 years, ht = 178.07 ± 7.05 cm, mass = 91.42 ± 14.44 kg) volunteered to participate and performed MTP and DL using both bars and a CMJ. Joint angles were recorded for all pulls and the bottom position of the CMJ. Peak ground reaction force (PGRF) was greater in the MTP (3,186.88 ± 543.53 N) than DL (2,501.15 ± 404.04 N) but not different between bars. Midthigh pull joint angles were more extended than DL, and the strongest correlations between isometric and dynamic performance were seen between DL PGRF and CMJ impulse (OBar r = 0.85; HBar r = 0.84). These findings are likely because of the different anatomical characteristics between the MTP and DL and the similarity in joint angles between the DL and CMJ. Therefore, the DL may be an optimal choice for athletes in jump-dependent sports, regardless of bar.

The Effect of Cloud Ear Fungus (Auricularia polytricha) on Serum Total Cholesterol, LDL And HDL Levels on Wistar Rats Induced by Reused Cooking Oil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Budinastiti, Ratih; Sunoko, Henna Rya; Widiastiti, Nyoman Suci

2018-02-01

The usage of reused cooking oil affects the increase of serum total cholesterol (TC) and LDL, also the decrease of serum HDL. This condition escalates the risk of atherosclerosis, which could lead to the incidence of cardiovascular disease. Cloud ear fungus is a natural antioxidant that contains polysaccharides, flavonoids, niacin, and vitamin C, which can improve the lipid profiles. Objective of this research is to analyze the impact of water from boiled cloud ear fungus on total cholesterol, LDL, and HDL level of Wistar rats that have been given reused cooking oil. This study is a true experimental research with post test only control group design, using 12 weeks-aged male Wistar rats (n = 24) that were randomly divided into 4 groups. K1 as the negative control, K2 was given reused cooking oil and standard diet, K3 was given water from boiled cloud ear fungus and standard diet, and K4 was given reused cooking oil, water from boiled cloud ear fungus and standard diet. Serum total cholesterol, LDL, and HDL levels were measured by the CHOD-PAP method after 28 days treatment. The study showed that TC mean value of K1 (80.2217 ± 3.61 mg / dL), K2 (195.8483 ± 5.47 mg / dL), K3 (75.5800 ± 4.02 mg / dL), and K4 (110.8683 ± 5.82 mg / dL); p = 0.000. LDL mean value of K1 (29.9200 ± 1.53 mg / dL), K2 (78.4167 ± 1.77 mg / dL), K3 (24.3167 ± 1.77 mg / dL), and K4 (40, 1617 ± 2.84 mg / dL); p = 0.000. HDL mean value of K1 (65.8950 ± 1.99 mg / dL), K2 (24.3233 ± 1.44 mg / dL), K3 (73.2300 ± 1.92 mg / dL), and K4 (54, 9550 ± 2.04 mg / dL); p= 0.000. Conclusion: Water from boiled cloud ear fungus decreases the serum total cholesterol and LDL, 06006 increases serum HDL levels of Wistar rats that has been given reused cooking oil.

Long-term acceptability, durability and bio-efficacy of ZeroVector® durable lining for vector control in Papua New Guinea.

PubMed

Kuadima, Joseph J; Timinao, Lincoln; Naidi, Laura; Tandrapah, Anthony; Hetzel, Manuel W; Czeher, Cyrille; Pulford, Justin

2017-02-28

This study examined the acceptability, durability and bio-efficacy of pyrethroid-impregnated durable lining (DL) over a three-year period post-installation in residential homes across Papua New Guinea (PNG). ZeroVector ® ITPS had previously been installed in 40 homes across four study sites representing a cross section of malaria transmission risk and housing style. Structured questionnaires, DL visual inspections and group interviews (GIs) were completed with household heads at 12- and 36-months post-installation. Three DL samples were collected from all households in which it remained 36-months post-installation to evaluate the bio-efficacy of DL on Anopheles mosquitoes. Bio-efficacy testing followed WHO guidelines for the evaluation of indoor residual spraying. The DL was still intact in 86 and 39% of study homes at the two time periods, respectively. In homes in which the DL was still intact, 92% of household heads considered the appearance at 12-months post installation to be the same as, or better than, that at installation compared to 59% at 36-months post-installation. GIs at both time points confirmed continuing high acceptance of DL, based in large part of the perceived attractiveness and functionality of the material. However, participants frequently asserted that they, or their family members, had ceased or reduced their use of mosquito nets as a result of the DL installation. A total of 16 houses were sampled for bio-efficacy testing across the 4 study sites at 36-months post-installation. Overall, combining all sites and samples, both knock-down at 30 min and mortality at 24 h were 100%. The ZeroVector ® DL installation remained highly acceptable at 36-months post-installation, the material and fixtures proved durable and the efficacy against malaria vectors did not decrease. However, the DL material had been removed from over 50% of the original study homes 3 years post-installation, largely due to deteriorating housing infrastructure. Furthermore, the presence of the DL installation appeared to reduce ITN use among many participating householders. The study findings suggest DL may not be an appropriate vector control method for large-scale use in the contemporary PNG malaria control programme.

[Management control and operative budget at a radiology center].

PubMed

Ferrari, G; Musconi, V; Zappi, A; Cavina, A; Zanetti, M

1996-06-01

The laws reforming the National Health Service (SSN) (DL 30.12.92 n. 502 converted into DL 7.12.93 n.517) strongly modify the operation rules of the local sociosanitary units (USL) and imply that the rules themselves be reorganized with flexible and agile organization systems, introducing, in addition, a budget system as a tool for programming and checking the results. The essential elements for management evaluation are: -an accurate accounting system for every department, based on a detailed analysis of the productive factors directly used; -a survey of the activity data with uniform and established indices. This work deals with a radiology department as a responsible unit belonging to Imola State Administration. It is an intermediate service as its activity is for both in- and outpatients. To calculate the cost of the service provided to users and to define the use of resources, inpatients and outpatients costs were included. This involves adding the cost of the examinations requested of the intermediate service, that is, the radiology department. The operative tool used to ascribe the cost of these demands to the departments needs a transfer cost system showing the increasing value of the number of services that the intermediate service gives the final user. To evaluate the activity of the radiology department, we tried to identify an index of respective complexity for every examination: a figure which allows us to express the use of resources according to the complexity of the services given and to turn the number of examinations into significant activity.

Toward CMOS image sensor based glucose monitoring.

PubMed

Devadhasan, Jasmine Pramila; Kim, Sanghyo

2012-09-07

Complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor is a powerful tool for biosensing applications. In this present study, CMOS image sensor has been exploited for detecting glucose levels by simple photon count variation with high sensitivity. Various concentrations of glucose (100 mg dL(-1) to 1000 mg dL(-1)) were added onto a simple poly-dimethylsiloxane (PDMS) chip and the oxidation of glucose was catalyzed with the aid of an enzymatic reaction. Oxidized glucose produces a brown color with the help of chromogen during enzymatic reaction and the color density varies with the glucose concentration. Photons pass through the PDMS chip with varying color density and hit the sensor surface. Photon count was recognized by CMOS image sensor depending on the color density with respect to the glucose concentration and it was converted into digital form. By correlating the obtained digital results with glucose concentration it is possible to measure a wide range of blood glucose levels with great linearity based on CMOS image sensor and therefore this technique will promote a convenient point-of-care diagnosis.

Virtual Libraries: Interactive Support Software and an Application in Chaotic Models.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Katsirikou, Anthi; Skiadas, Christos; Apostolou, Apostolos; Rompogiannakis, Giannis

This paper begins with a discussion of the characteristics and the singularity of chaotic systems, including dynamic systems theory, chaotic orbit, fractals, chaotic attractors, and characteristics of chaotic systems. The second section addresses the digital libraries (DL) concept and the appropriateness of chaotic models, including definition and…

Replacement value of betaine for DL-methionine in male broiler chicks.

PubMed

Schutte, J B; De Jong, J; Smink, W; Pack, M

1997-02-01

The effect of DL-methionine and betaine supplementation on growth performance of 2,400 male broilers in the age period of 1 to 38 d, and on carcass composition of a subsample of 384 birds was examined. Three dose levels of DL-methionine (0, 0.05, and 0.10%) and two doses of betaine (0 and 0.04%) were supplemented in different combinations to methioninedeficient diets. Two types of diets were fed as starters and growers: either corn-soybean diets or practical diets typical for the Dutch broiler industry. All diets were fortified with 220 ppm choline in order to avoid a deficiency in methyl groups. Increasing DL-methionine supplementation significantly improved daily weight gain and feed conversion efficiency. Supplemental betaine did not affect bird growth. Betaine slightly improved feed conversion in diets without supplemental DL-methionine, but did not affect this parameter in diets with added DL-methionine. Breast meat yield was significantly increased by about 1.5 percentage points by the addition of 0.05% DL-methionine, whereas 0.04% betaine only tended to increase breast meat yield in the range of 0.3 to 0.6 percentage points. The type of diet did not have any effect on the responses obtained. In summary, there was no evidence for betaine to spare DL-methionine as an essential amino acid supplement in broiler diets.

UK Renal Registry 15th annual report: Chapter 6 haemoglobin, ferritin and erythropoietin amongst UK adult dialysis patients in 2011: national and centre-specific analyses.

PubMed

Rao, Anirudh; Gilg, Julie; Williams, Andrew

2013-01-01

The UK Renal Association (RA) and National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) have published Clinical Practice Guidelines which include recommendations for management of anaemia in established renal failure. To determine the extent to which the guidelines for anaemia management are met in the UK. Quarterly data were obtained for haemoglobin (Hb) and factors that influence Hb from renal centres in England, Wales, Northern Ireland (E, W, NI) and the Scottish Renal Registry for the incident and prevalent renal replacement therapy (RRT) cohorts for 2011. In the UK, in 2011 51% of patients commenced dialysis therapy with Hb ≥10.0 g/dl (median Hb 10 g/dl). Of patients in the early presentation group, 55% started dialysis with Hb ≥10.0 g/dl whilst 37% of patients presenting late started dialysis with Hb ≥10.0 g/dl. The UK median Hb of haemodialysis (HD) patients was 11.2 g/dl with an inter-quartile range (IQR) of 10.3-12.1 g/dl. Of UK HD patients, 82% had Hb ≥10.0 g/dl. The median Hb of peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients in the UK was 11.4 g/dl (IQR 10.5-12.3 g/dl). Of UK PD patients, 85% had Hb ≥10.0 g/dl. The median ferritin in HD patients in the UK was 436 mg/L (IQR 292-625) and 96% of HD patients had a ferritin ≥100 mg/ L. In EW&NI the median ferritin in PD patients was 273 mg/ L (IQR 153-446) with 86% of PD patients having a ferritin ≥100 mg/L. In EW&NI the mean erythropoietin stimulating agent (ESA) dose was higher for HD than PD patients (8,740 vs. 6,624 IU/week). Prevalent HD and PD patients had 56% and 53% respectively within the Hb ≥10 and ≤12 g/dl target. Copyright © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Response to fifty grams oral glucose challenge test and pattern of preceding fasting plasma glucose in normal pregnant Nigerians.

PubMed

Adegbola, Omololu; Ajayi, Godwin Olufemi

2014-03-01

Diabetes mellitus in pregnancy has profound implications for the baby and mother and thus active screening for this is desirable. Fifty grams oral glucose challenge test was administered after obtaining consent to 222 women in good health with singleton pregnancies without diabetes mellitus at 24 to 28 weeks gestation after an overnight fast. Venous blood sample was obtained before and 1 hour after the glucose load. A diagnostic 3-hour 100 g oral glucose tolerance test was subsequently performed in all. Two hundred and ten women had a normal response to oral glucose tolerance test i.e. venous plasma glucose below these cut-off levels: fasting 95 mg/dl (5.3 mmol/l), 1 hour 180 mg/dl (10.0 mmol/l), 2 hours 155 mg/dl (8.6 mmol/l) and 3 hours 140 mg/dl (7.8 mmol/l), while 12 were found to have gestational diabetes mellitus and were subsequently excluded from the study. They were appropriately managed. The mean maternal age was 30.9 ± 4.1 years (range 19 to 45 years) and the mean parity was 1.2 ± 1.1 (range 0 to 5). The mean fasting plasma glucose was 74.5 ± 11.5 mg/dl (range 42 to 117 mg/dl), while the mean plasma glucose 1 hour after 50 g glucose challenge test was 115.3 ± 19.1 mg/dl (range 56 to 180 mg/dl). The mean fasting plasma glucose in normal pregnant Nigerians was 74.5 ± 11.5 mg/dl (range 42 to 117 mg/dl). There is a need to re-appraise and possibly review downwards the World Health Organization fasting plasma glucose diagnostic criteria in pregnant Nigerians for better detection of gestational diabetes mellitus. Pregnant women with venous plasma glucose greater than 153.5 mg/dl (8.5 mmol/l) 1 hour after 50 g glucose challenge test are strongly recommended for diagnostic test of gestational diabetes mellitus.

Combination treatment of r-tPA and an optimized human apyrase reduces mortality rate and hemorrhagic transformation 6h after ischemic stroke in aged female rats.

PubMed

Tan, Zhenjun; Li, Xinlan; Turner, Ryan C; Logsdon, Aric F; Lucke-Wold, Brandon; DiPasquale, Kenneth; Jeong, Soon Soeg; Chen, Ridong; Huber, Jason D; Rosen, Charles L

2014-09-05

Recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (r-tPA) is the only FDA-approved drug treatment for ischemic stroke and must be used within 4.5h. Thrombolytic treatment with r-tPA has deleterious effects on the neurovascular unit that substantially increases the risk of intracerebral hemorrhage if administered too late. These therapeutic shortcomings necessitate additional investigation into agents that can extend the therapeutic window for safe use of thrombolytics. In this study, combination of r-tPA and APT102, a novel form of human apyrase/ADPase, was investigated in a clinically-relevant aged-female rat embolic ischemic stroke model. We propose that successfully extending the therapeutic window of r-tPA administration would represent a significant advance in the treatment of ischemic stroke due to a significant increase in the number of patients eligible for treatment. Results of our study showed significantly reduced mortality from 47% with r-tPA alone to 16% with co-administration of APT102 and r-tPA. Co-administration decreased cortical (47 ± 5% vs. 29 ± 5%), striatal (50 ± 2%, vs. 40 ± 3%) and total (48 ± 3%vs. 33 ± 4%) hemispheric infarct volume compared to r-tPA alone. APT102 improved neurological outcome (8.9±0.6, vs. 6.8 ± 0.8) and decreased hemoglobin extravasation in cortical tissue (1.9 ± 0.1mg/dl vs. 1.4 ± 0.1mg/dl) striatal tissue (2.1 ± 0.3mg/dl vs. 1.4 ± 0.1mg/dl) and whole brain tissue (2.0 ± 0.2mg/dl vs. 1.4 ± 0.1mg/dl). These data suggest that APT102 can safely extend the therapeutic window for r-tPA mediated reperfusion to 6h following experimental stroke without increased hemorrhagic transformation. APT102 offers to be a viable adjunct therapeutic option to increase the number of clinical patients eligible for thrombolytic treatment after ischemic stroke. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Serum Magnesium Levels and Hospitalization and Mortality in Incident Peritoneal Dialysis Patients: A Cohort Study

PubMed Central

Yang, Xiao; Soohoo, Melissa; Streja, Elani; Rivara, Matthew B.; Obi, Yoshitsugu; Adams, Scott V.; Kalantar-Zadeh, Kamyar; Mehrotra, Rajnish

2016-01-01

Background Prior studies have shown the association of low serum magnesium with adverse health outcomes in patients undergoing hemodialysis. There is a paucity of such studies in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD). Study Design Cohort Study. Setting & Participants 10,692 patients treated with PD January 1, 2007–December 31, 2011 in facilities operated by a single large dialysis organization in the United States. Predictor Baseline serum magnesium levels, examined as five categories (<1.8, 1.8–<2.0, 2.0–<2.2 [reference], 2.2–<2.4, and ≥2.4 mg/dL). Outcomes Time to first hospitalization and time to death using competing risks regression models. Results The distribution of baseline serum magnesium levels in the cohort were < 1.8 mg/dl: 1928 (18%); 1.8–<2.0 mg/dl: 2204 (21%); 2.0–<2.2 mg/dl: 2765 (26%); 2.2–<2.4 mg/dl: 1765 (16%); and ≥ 2.4 mg/dl: 2030 (19%). Of the 10,692 patients, 6465 (60%) were hospitalized at least once and 1392 (13%) died during follow-up (median, 13; IQR, 7–23 months). Baseline serum magnesium <1.8 mg/dL was associated with higher risk for hospitalization and all-cause mortality after adjustment for demographic and clinical characteristics (adjusted HRs of 1.23 [95% CI, 1.14–1.33] and 1.21 [95% CI, 1.03–1.42], respectively). The higher risk for hospitalization persisted upon adjustment for laboratory variables while that for all-cause mortality was attenuated to a non-significant level. The greatest risk for hospitalization was in patients with low serum albumin (< 3.5 g/dl; p for interaction < 0.001). Limitations Possibility of residual confounding by unmeasured variables cannot be excluded. Conclusions Lower serum magnesium levels may be associated with higher risk of hospitalization in incident PD patients, particularly among those with hypoalbuminemia. Additional studies are needed to confirm these findings and investigate whether correction of hypomagnesemia reduces these risks. PMID:27261330

UK Renal Registry 13th Annual Report (December 2010): Chapter 9: haemoglobin, ferritin and erythropoietin amongst UK adult dialysis patients in 2009: national and centre-specific analyses.

PubMed

Gilg, Julie; Webb, Lynsey; Feest, Terry; Fogarty, Damian

2011-01-01

The UK Renal Association (RA) and National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) have published Clinical Practice Guidelines which include recommendations for management of anaemia in established renal failure. To determine the extent to which the guidelines for anaemia management are met in the UK. Quarterly data were obtained regarding haemoglobin (Hb) and factors that influence Hb from renal centres in England, Wales, Northern Ireland (EWNI) and the Scottish Renal Registry for the incident and prevalent renal replacement therapy (RRT) cohorts for 2009. In the UK, in 2009 55% of patients commenced dialysis therapy with Hb x10.0 g/dl (median Hb 10.2 g/dl). The median Hb of haemodialysis (HD) patients was 11.6 g/dl with an interquartile range (IQR) of 10.6 - 12.4 g/dl. Of HD patients 85% had Hb ≥ 10.0 g/dl. The median Hb of peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients in the UK was 11.7 g/dl (IQR 10.7-12.6 g/dl). Of UK PD patients, 88% had Hb ≥ 10.0 g/dl. The median ferritin in HD patients in EWNI was 441 mg/L (IQR 289-629) and 96% of HD patients had a ferritin ≥ 100 mg/L. The median ferritin in PD patients was 249 mg/L (IQR 142-412) with 86% of PD patients having a ferritin 5100 mg/L. In EWNI the mean Erythropoietin Stimulating Agent (ESA) dose was higher for HD than PD patients (9,507 vs. 6,212 IU/week). In 2009, 56% of prevalent HD patients had a Hb ≥ 10.5 and ≤ 12.5 g/dl compared with 54% in 2008 and 53% in 2007. Fifty-four percent of prevalent PD patients had a Hb ≥10.5 and ≤12.5 g/dl compared to 55% in 2008. Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.

KIR3DL1 interaction with HLA-B27 is altered by ankylosing spondylitis associated ERAP1 and enhanced by MHC class I cross-linking.

PubMed

Abdullah, Hasan; Zhang, Zhenbo; Yee, Kirby; Haroon, Nigil

2015-01-01

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic, inflammatory arthritis of the spine and peripheral joints linked to the antigen presenting molecule HLA-B27. The risk of AS is increased in patients possessing endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase-1 (ERAP1) polymorphisms rs30187 and rs27044 encoding amino acid changes K528R and Q730E, respectively. Dysfunction of ERAP1 is hypothesized to cause changes in expression of HLA-B27 classical (pHLA) and non-classical (FHC) conformers on antigen presenting cells (APCs), which interact with the natural killer (NK) cell receptor KIR3DL1. Dysregulation of this pathway may be pathogenic in AS. APC cell lines expressing HLA-B27 were found to inhibit cytokine production in KIR3DL1+ NK cells due to decreased APC-NK cell adhesion, and possibly activation of receptor down-regulation. Blocking pHLA and FHC reveals that both conformers inhibit cytokine production through KIR3DL1. KIR3DL1 affinity and HLA-B27 surface expression studies suggest that ERAP1 R528 and E730 expression protects from AS by generating sub-optimal pHLA, causing reduced KIR3DL1 affinity and weaker cytokine inhibition. Secondarily we observed that KIR3DL1 binding to C1R-B27 APCs is enhanced by blocking pHLA, but not FHC, raising the possibility that antibody mediated HLA-B27 cross-linking may be important in enhancing KIR3DL1+ NK cell function. This study establishes the role of both FHC and pHLA in modulating NK cell cytokine secretion and adhesion functions by interacting with KIR3DL1. This interaction varies depending on the AS association status of the ERAP1 variant expressed in APCs. Additionally antibody cross-linking of HLA-B27 enhances KIR3DL1 binding and as such could be an important pathogenic mechanism in AS.

Effect of environmental lead pollution on blood lead levels in traffic police constables in Islamabad, Pakistan.

PubMed

Agha, Farida; Sadaruddin, Agha; Khatoon, Naz

2005-10-01

To determine the blood lead levels and trace elements (copper and manganese) in traffic police constables in Islamabad in order to assess the effects of environmental pollution on the levels of metals in body fluids. Blood samples were collected from 47 male traffic police constables, 21 to 45 years of age, posted in different areas of Islamabad and controlling traffic from 3 months to 18 years, 8 hours/day, 6 days/week. Adolescent males (13-19 years), residing in comparatively clean and very low traffic areas were included as controls. Blood lead, copper, and manganese concentrations were estimated by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The mean blood lead level among constables (27.27 microg/dl) was significantly (p<0.0001) high as compared to controls (3.22 microg/dl). Twenty one percent constables had elevated blood lead levels (over 25 microg/dl) and 13% had levels above the safety limit (40 microg/dl). No correlation was found between blood lead levels and length of service. No significant difference was found in the mean values for copper between traffic constables (93.49 microg/dl) and controls (71.15 microg/dl). The mean blood manganese levels in traffic constables (21.94 microg/dl) were significantly (p<0.0001) higher than in controls (1.70 microg/dl). The mean blood lead levels were significantly high in traffic constables of Karachi (47.7 microg/dl) as compared to Islamabad (27.2 microg/dl), which shows direct relation of rise in blood lead levels with vehicle exhaust. Environmental lead pollution is associated with an increased blood lead concentration in those who are regularly exposed to vehicle exhaust in high traffic areas. The degree of lead pollution arising from vehicle exhaust differs in Karachi and Islamabad. Exposure to air containing dust particles rich in manganese may affect blood manganese levels.

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, dibenzofurans, and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls in rice straw smoke and their origins in Japan.

PubMed

Minomo, Kotaro; Ohtsuka, Nobutoshi; Nojiri, Kiyoshi; Hosono, Shigeo; Kawamura, Kiyoshi

2011-08-01

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (DL-PCBs) contained in the smoke generated from rice straw burning in post-harvest paddy fields in Japan were analyzed to determine their congener profiles. Both the apportionment of toxic equivalent (TEQ) by using indicative congeners and the comparison of the homolog profiles showed that the PCDDs/PCDFs/DL-PCBs present in the rice-straw smoke were greatly influenced by those present as impurities in pentachlorophenol (PCP) and chlornitrofen (CNP, 4-nitrophenyl-2,4,6-trichlorophenyl ether) formulations that had been widely used as herbicides in paddy fields in Japan. Further, in order to investigate the effects of paddy-field soil on the PCDDs/PCDFs/DL-PCBs present in rice-straw smoke, PCDD/PCDF/DL-PCB homolog profiles of rice straw, rice-straw smoke and paddy-field soil were compared. Rice-straw smoke was generated by burning rice straw on a stainless-steel tray in a laboratory. The results suggested that the herbicides-originated PCDDs/PCDFs/DL-PCBs and the atmospheric PCDDs/PCDFs/DL-PCBs contributed predominantly to the presence of PCDDs/PCDFs/DL-PCBs in the rice-straw smoke while the contribution of PCDDs/PCDFs/DL-PCBs formed during rice straw burning was relatively minimal. The major sources of the PCDDs/PCDFs/DL-PCBs found in the rice-straw smoke were attributed primarily to the paddy-field soil adhered to the rice straw surface and secondarily to the air taken by the rice straw. The principal component analysis supported these conclusions. It is concluded that rice straw burning at paddy fields acts as a driving force in the transfer of PCDDs/PCDFs/DL-PCBs from paddy-field soil to the atmosphere. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Dendrimer-based Nanoparticle for Dye Sensitized Solar Cells with Improved Efficiency.

PubMed

Ghann, William; Kang, Hyeonggon; Uddin, Jamal; Gonawala, Sunalee J; Mahatabuddin, Sheikh; Ali, Meser M

2018-01-01

Dye sensitized solar cells were fabricated with DyLight680 (DL680) dye and its corresponding europium conjugated dendrimer, DL680-Eu-G5PAMAM, to study the effect of europium on the current and voltage characteristics of the DL680 dye sensitized solar cell. The dye samples were characterized by using Absorption Spectroscopy, Emission Spectroscopy, Fluorescence lifetime and Fourier Transform Infrared measurements. Transmission electron microscopy imaging was carried out on the DL680-Eu-G5PAMAM dye and DL680-Eu-G5PAMAM dye sensitized titanium dioxide nanoparticles to analyze the size of the dye molecules and examine the interaction of the dye with titanium dioxide nanoparticles. The DL680-Eu-G5PAMAM dye sensitized solar cells demonstrated an enhanced solar-to-electric energy conversion of 0.32% under full light illumination (100 mWcm -2 , AM 1.5 Global) in comparison with that of DL680 dye sensitized cells which recorded an average solar-to-electric energy conversion of only 0.19%. The improvement of the efficiency could be due to the presence of the europium that enhances the propensity of dye to absorb sunlight.

Photodynamic Therapy for Actinic Keratoses: A Randomized Prospective Non-sponsored Cost-effectiveness Study of Daylight-mediated Treatment Compared with Light-emitting Diode Treatment.

PubMed

Neittaanmäki-Perttu, Noora; Grönroos, Mari; Karppinen, Toni; Snellman, Erna; Rissanen, Pekka

2016-02-01

Daylight-mediated photodynamic therapy (DL-PDT) is considered as effective as conventional PDT using artificial light (light-emitting diode (LED)-PDT) for treatment of actinic keratoses (AK). This randomized prospective non-sponsored study assessed the cost-effectiveness of DL-PDT compared with LED-PDT. Seventy patients with 210 AKs were randomized to DL-PDT or LED-PDT groups. Effectiveness was assessed at 6 months. The costs included societal costs and private costs, including the time patients spent in treatment. Results are presented as incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). The total costs per patient were significantly lower for DL-PDT (€132) compared with LED-PDT (€170), giving a cost saving of €38 (p = 0.022). The estimated probabilities for patients' complete response were 0.429 for DL-PDT and 0.686 for LED-PDT; a difference in probability of being healed of 0.257. ICER showed a monetary gain of €147 per unit of effectiveness lost. DL-PDT is less costly and less effective than LED-PDT. In terms of cost-effectiveness analysis, DL-PDT provides lower value for money compared with LED-PDT.

Enhancement of bioavailability of cinnarizine from its beta-cyclodextrin complex on oral administration with DL-phenylalanine as a competing agent.

PubMed

Tokumura, T; Nanba, M; Tsushima, Y; Tatsuishi, K; Kayano, M; Machida, Y; Nagai, T

1986-04-01

The present investigation is concerned with an improvement of the bioavailability of cinnarizine by administering its beta-cyclodextrin complex together with another compound which competes with the beta-cyclodextrin molecule in complex formation in aqueous solution (competing agent). The bioavailability of cinnarizine on oral administration of the cinnarizine-beta-cyclodextrin inclusion complex was enhanced by the simultaneous administration of DL-phenylalanine as a competing agent, e.g., the AUC was 1.9 and 2.7 times as large as those of the cinnarizine-beta-cyclodextrin complex alone and cinnarizine alone, respectively. The enhancement of AUC and Cmax completely depended on the dose of DL-phenylalanine. It was found from these results that DL-phenylalanine acted as a competing agent in the GI tract and the minimum effective dose required of DL-phenylalanine might be 1 g for 50 mg of cinnarizine in the cinnarizine-beta-cyclodextrin complex. Evaluating the competing effect of DL-phenylalanine in vitro using an absorption simulator, it was found that the decreased penetration rate of cinnarizine through the artificial lipid barrier with addition of beta-cyclodextrin was restored with the addition of DL-phenylalanine.

A comparative biochemical profile of some cyprinids fish in Dukan Lake, Kurdistan-Iraq

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Azeez, Darya Mohammed; Mohammed, Sarbaz Ibrahim

2017-09-01

The present study was carried out to demonstrate the baseline values for some serum biochemical parameters for 64 adult freshwater fish including seven species belong to family Cyprinidae, have been collected in Dukan Lake, Kurdistan region-Iraq. Fishes were weighed, measured, and collect blood for blood chemistry. Serum biochemical analyses were determined using (Cobas C 311) full automatic chemical analyzer. The result of comparative study of serum biochemical parameters of all Cyprinidae species showed that serum glucose was (459.10±106.99 mg/dl) and direct bilirubin was (0.056±0.021mg/dl) in Barbus grypus, serum total protein (3.511± 0.0484gm/dl) and HDL (133.11±0.4231mg/dl) in Cyprinus carpio, serum cholesterol (338.33±43.923 mg/dl) and LDL (86.11±11.871mg/dl) in Carassius carassius, serum triglyceride (420.0±28.8mg/dl) and ALK (113.93±20.65U/L) in Chondrostoma regium, serum AST and serum ALT in Capoeta trutta, were significantly higher when compared to other species. In a conclusion there is variation in biochemical values among species of same family.

Thermal infrared sounding observations of lower atmospheric variances at Mars and their implications for gravity wave activity: a preliminary examination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heavens, N. G.

2017-12-01

It has been recognized for over two decades that the mesoscale statistical variance observed by Earth-observing satellites at temperature-sensitive frequencies above the instrumental noise floor is a measure of gravity wave activity. These types of observation have been made by a variety of satellite instruments have been an important validation tool for gravity wave parameterizations in global and mesoscale models. At Mars, the importance of topographic and non-topographic sources of gravity waves for the general circulation is now widely recognized and the target of recent modeling efforts. However, despite several ingenious studies, gravity wave activity near hypothetical lower atmospheric sources has been poorly and unsystematically characterized, partly because of the difficulty of separating the gravity wave activity from baroclinic wave activity and the thermal tides. Here will be presented a preliminary analysis of calibrated radiance variance at 15.4 microns (635-665 cm-1) from nadir, off-nadir, and limb observations by the Mars Climate Sounder on board Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. The overarching methodology follows Wu and Waters (1996, 1997). Nadir, off-nadir, and lowest detector limb observations should sample variability with vertical weighting functions centered high in the lower atmosphere (20-30 km altitude) and full width half maximum (FWHM) 20 km but be sensitive to gravity waves with different horizontal wavelengths and slightly different vertical wavelengths. This work is supported by NASA's Mars Data Analysis Program (NNX14AM32G). References Wu, D.L. and J.W. Waters, 1996, Satellite observations of atmospheric variances: A possible indication of gravity waves, GRL, 23, 3631-3634. Wu D.L. and J.W. Waters, 1997, Observations of Gravity Waves with the UARS Microwave Limb Sounder. In: Hamilton K. (eds) Gravity Wave Processes. NATO ASI Series (Series I: Environmental Change), vol 50. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg.

Predicting survival in patients receiving continuous flow left ventricular assist devices: the HeartMate II risk score.

PubMed

Cowger, Jennifer; Sundareswaran, Kartik; Rogers, Joseph G; Park, Soon J; Pagani, Francis D; Bhat, Geetha; Jaski, Brian; Farrar, David J; Slaughter, Mark S

2013-01-22

The aim of this study was to derive and validate a model to predict survival in candidates for HeartMate II (HMII) (Thoratec, Pleasanton, California) left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support. LVAD mortality risk prediction is important for candidate selection and communicating expectations to patients and clinicians. With the evolution of LVAD support, prior risk prediction models have become less valid. Patients enrolled into the HMII bridge to transplantation and destination therapy trials (N = 1,122) were randomly divided into derivation (DC) (n = 583) and validation cohorts (VC) (n = 539). Pre-operative candidate predictors of 90-day mortality were examined in the DC with logistic regression, from which the HMII Risk Score (HMRS) was derived. The HMRS was then applied to the VC. There were 149 (13%) deaths within 90 days. In the DC, mortality (n = 80) was higher in older patients (odds ratio [OR]: 1.3, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1 to 1.7 per 10 years), those with greater hypoalbuminemia (OR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.31 to 0.76 per mg/dl of albumin), renal dysfunction (OR: 2.1, 95% CI: 1.4 to 3.2 per mg/dl creatinine), coagulopathy (OR: 3.1, 95% CI: 1.7 to 5.8 per international normalized ratio unit), and in those receiving LVAD support at less experienced centers (OR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.2 to 4.4 for <15 trial patients). Mortality in the DC low, medium, and high HMRS groups was 4%, 16%, and 29%, respectively (p < 0.001). In the VC, corresponding mortality was 8%, 11%, and 25%, respectively (p < 0.001). HMRS discrimination was good (area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve: 0.71, 95% CI: 0.66 to 0.75). The HMRS might be useful for mortality risk stratification in HMII candidates and may serve as an additional tool in the patient selection process. Copyright © 2013 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Novel device-based acne treatments: comparison of a 1450-nm diode laser and microneedling radiofrequency on mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris and seborrhoea in Korean patients through a 20-week prospective, randomized, split-face study.

PubMed

Kwon, H H; Park, H Y; Choi, S C; Bae, Y; Jung, J Y; Park, G-H

2018-04-01

While device-based acne treatments are widely applied for patients not tolerating conventional medications, related controlled studies have been still limited. Recently, non-ablative 1450-nm diode laser (DL) and fractional microneedling radiofrequency (FMR) have been effectively used for acne, in addition to well-recognized dermal remodelling effects. To compare the clinical course of acne treatment between DL and FMR. Twenty-five Korean patients with mild-to-moderate facial acne completed treatments with DL and FMR through a 20-week, randomized split-face study. One randomly assigned half side of each patient's face received DL and the other side by FMR. Treatments were scheduled to receive three consecutive sessions at 4-week intervals. Objective assessments including revised Leeds grades, lesion counts, sebum output measurements, and patients' subjective satisfaction were investigated. Both DL and FMR demonstrated steady improvement of acne and seborrhoea during treatment sessions. While results between two devices were similar during treatment sessions, FMR was superior to DL in the 12-week follow-up. Patients' subjective assessments for seborrhoea improvement were similar between two devices, while those for acne, skin texture, and acne scars were more satisfactory for FMR. For safety profile, no significant difference was observed between two regimens, while mild postinflammatory hyperpigmentation was observed only in DL side. Both DL and FMR demonstrated efficacies for acne and seborrhoea, with reasonable safety profile. FMR was more effective than DL for the long-term maintenance, and subjective assessments for texture and scar improvements. Therefore, a few sessions of these devices would be a viable option for acne treatments. © 2017 European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.

Comparison of serum trace element levels in patients with or without pre-eclampsia.

PubMed

Farzin, Leila; Sajadi, Fattaneh

2012-10-01

In developing countries, nutritional deficiency of essential trace elements is a common health problem, particularly among pregnant women because of increased requirements of various nutrients. Accordingly, this study was initiated to compare trace elements status in women with or without pre-eclampsia. In this study, serum trace elements including zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), copper (Cu), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) were determined by using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) in 60 patients and 60 healthy subjects. There was no significant difference in the values of Cu between two groups (P > 0.05). A significant difference in Zn, Se, Ca and Mg levels were observed between patients with pre-eclampsia and control group (P < 0.001, P<0.01, P<0.01 and P<0.001, respectively). Zn, Se, Ca and Mg levels were found to be 76.49 ± 17.62 μg/ dl, 8.82 ± 2.10 μg/ dl, 8.65 ± 2.14 mg/dl and 1.51 ± 0.34 mg/dl in Pre-eclamptic cases, and these values were found statistically lower compared to the controls (100.61 ± 20.12 μg/dl, 10.47 ± 2.78 μg/dl, 9.77 ± 3.02 mg/dl and 1.78 ± 0.27 mg/dl, respectively). While Cu levels were 118.28 ± 16.92 and 116.55 ± 15.23 μg/dl in the patients and the healthy subjects, respectively. In addition, no significant difference was found between two groups with respect to Hemoglobin Concentration (HbC) and Total White Blood Cell Count (TWBC) (P>0.05). Our findings indicate that the levels of Zn, Se, Ca and Mg are significantly altered in pregnant women with pre-eclampsia. This research shows that these deficiencies can not due to hemodilution.

Study of axial double layer in helicon plasma by optical emission spectroscopy and simple probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, ZHAO; Wanying, ZHU; Huihui, WANG; Qiang, CHEN; Chang, TAN; Jiting, OUYANG

2018-07-01

In this work we used a passive measurement method based on a high-impedance electrostatic probe and an optical emission spectroscope (OES) to investigate the characteristics of the double layer (DL) in an argon helicon plasma. The DL can be confirmed by a rapid change in the plasma potential along the axis. The axial potential variation of the passive measurement shows that the DL forms near a region of strong magnetic field gradient when the plasma is operated in wave-coupled mode, and the DL strength increases at higher powers in this experiment. The emission intensity of the argon atom line, which is strongly dependent on the metastable atom concentration, shows a similar spatial distribution to the plasma potential along the axis. The emission intensity of the argon atom line and the argon ion line in the DL suggests the existence of an energetic electron population upstream of the DL. The electron density upstream is much higher than that downstream, which is mainly caused by these energetic electrons.

Geographical topic learning for social images with a deep neural network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Jiangfan; Xu, Xin

2017-03-01

The use of geographical tagging in social-media images is becoming a part of image metadata and a great interest for geographical information science. It is well recognized that geographical topic learning is crucial for geographical annotation. Existing methods usually exploit geographical characteristics using image preprocessing, pixel-based classification, and feature recognition. How to effectively exploit the high-level semantic feature and underlying correlation among different types of contents is a crucial task for geographical topic learning. Deep learning (DL) has recently demonstrated robust capabilities for image tagging and has been introduced into geoscience. It extracts high-level features computed from a whole image component, where the cluttered background may dominate spatial features in the deep representation. Therefore, a method of spatial-attentional DL for geographical topic learning is provided and we can regard it as a special case of DL combined with various deep networks and tuning tricks. Results demonstrated that the method is discriminative for different types of geographical topic learning. In addition, it outperforms other sequential processing models in a tagging task for a geographical image dataset.

Maternal dietary exposure to dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) is associated with language delay in 3year old Norwegian children.

PubMed

Caspersen, I H; Haugen, M; Schjølberg, S; Vejrup, K; Knutsen, H K; Brantsæter, A L; Meltzer, H M; Alexander, J; Magnus, P; Kvalem, H E

2016-05-01

Prenatal exposure to dioxins and PCBs is potentially harmful to the developing fetus and may increase the risk of delayed or impaired neurodevelopment. Several studies have reported negative associations between prenatal exposure to these compounds and aspects of cognition related to language in early childhood. The aim was to examine the association between maternal low level dietary exposure to dioxins and PCB during pregnancy and language development in 3year old children in a large group of mother-child pairs participating in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study (MoBa). This study includes 44,092 children of women who were recruited to the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study (MoBa) during the years 2002-2009. Maternal dietary exposure to dioxins and PCBs was estimated based on a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) answered mid-pregnancy and a database of dioxin and PCB concentrations in Norwegian foods. Exposure to dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs (dl-compounds) was expressed in total toxic equivalents (TEQ), and PCB-153 was used as marker for non-dioxin-like PCBs (ndlPCBs). Children's language skills at age 3 were assessed by parental report including a Dale and Bishop grammar rating and questions about communication skills from the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ). Logistic regression models adjusted for confounders were used to examine the association between maternal dietary exposure to dl-compounds or PCB-153 and language development in children. The maternal dietary exposure to dl-compounds and PCB-153 was generally low, and 98% of women had intakes of dl-compounds ≤14pg TEQ/kg bw/week, which is the tolerable weekly intake set by EU's Scientific Committee for Food (SCF). High maternal exposure (>14pg TEQ/kg bw/week of dl-compounds (median 2.6pg/kg bw/day, range 2-16) or >97.5-percentile intake of PCB-153 (median 11ng/kg bw/day, range 5-28) was associated with higher odds of incomplete grammar (in boys and girls, adjusted ORs 1.1 to 1.3) and severe language delay in girls, adjusted ORs 2.8 [95% CI 1.1, 7.1] for PCB-153 and 2.9 [95% CI 1.4, 5.9] for dl-compounds. Furthermore, high exposure to dl-compounds was associated with moderate language delay 1.4 [95% CI 1.0, 2.0] and lower communication score (ASQ), adjusted OR 1.4 [95% CI 1.1, 1.9] in girls. The main findings of this study were: 1) Girls born to mothers who exceeded the tolerable weekly intake for dl-compounds or had a PCB-153 intake above the 97.5 percentile in early pregnancy may have increased risk of language delay at age 3years. 2) Negative associations with maternal exposure to dl-compounds or PCB-153 were observed for both boys and girls having incomplete grammar, which is a subtle reduction in language skills. This interesting finding should not be considered as deviant at this age. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Assessment of the Thermodynamic Properties of DL-p-Mentha-1,8-diene, 4-Isopropyl-1-Methylcyclohexene (DL-limonene) by Inverse Gas Chromatography (IGC).

PubMed

Farshchi, Negin; Abbasian, Ali; Larijani, Kambiz

2018-05-10

Limonene is a colorless liquid hydrocarbon and had been investigated as a plasticizer for many plastics. Prediction of solubility between different materials is an advantage in many ways, one of the most convenient ways to know the compatibility of materials is to determine the degree of solubility of them in each other. The concept of "solubility parameter" can help practitioners in this way.In this study, inverse gas chromatography (IGC) method at infinite dilution was used for determination of the thermodynamic properties of DL-p-mentha-1,8-diene, 4-Isopropyl-1-methylcyclohexene (DL-limonene). The interaction between DL-limonene and 13 solvents were examined in the temperature range of 63-123°C through the assessment of the thermodynamic sorption parameters, the parameters of mixing at infinite dilution, the weight fraction activity coefficient and the Flory-Huggins interaction parameters. Additionally, the solubility parameter for DL-limonene and the temperature dependence of these parameters was investigated as well.Results show that there is a temperature dependence in solubility parameter, which increases by decreasing temperature. However, there were no specific dependence between interaction parameters and temperature, but chemical structure appeared to have a significant effect on them as well as on the type and strength of intermolecular interactions between DL-limonene and investigated solvents. The solubility parameter δ2 of DL-limonene determined to be 19.20 (J/cm3)0.5 at 25°C.

Impact of low level radiation on concentrations of some trace elements in radiation workers.

PubMed

Rostampour, Nima; Almasi, Tinoosh; Rostampour, Masoumeh; Sadeghi, Hamid Reza; Khodamoradi, Ehsan; Razi, Reyhaneh; Derakhsh, Zahra

2018-05-01

Small variations in trace element levels may cause important physiological changes in the human body. This study aims to evaluate five important trace elements in radiation workers. In this study, 44 radiation workers and an equal number of non-radiation workers were selected as the case and control group, respectively. The concentrations of iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, and selenium in the serum of the participants were measured using an Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). The mean concentrations of iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, and selenium for the case group were 107.3 µg/dl, 2.3 mg/dl, 80.9 µg/dl, 112.6 µg/dl and 216.7 ng/ml, respectively. The results for the control group were 121.9 µg/dl, 2.3 mg/dl, 82.3 µg/dl, 112.8 µg/dl and 225.2 ng/ml, respectively. The mean concentration of iron in the case group was significantly lower than the control group (p-value = 0.012), while the concentrations of other elements in both of the groups were not significantly different. In the case group, except magnesium (p-value = 0.021), no significant relationship was found between age and the elemental concentrations. According to Spearman's test, there was a meaningful statistical correlation between the sex and concentration of iron, Mg, Zn, and Se. Also, the correlation between the concentration of magnesium and the weights of radiation workers was significant (p-value =0.044). © 2018 Old City Publishing, Inc.

A phase I trial of imatinib in combination with mFOLFOX6-bevacizumab in patients with advanced colorectal cancer.

PubMed

Michael, M; Zalcberg, J; Gibbs, P; Lipton, L; Gouillou, M; Jefford, M; McArthur, G; Copeman, M; Lynch, K; Tebbutt, N C

2013-02-01

Platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) inhibition by reducing tumoral interstitial fluid pressure might increase the efficacy of chemotherapy. Imatinib inhibits PDGFR kinase activity at therapeutically relevant doses. This phase I study aimed to assess the maximal tolerated dose (MTD) of imatinib in combination with mFOLFOX6-bevacizumab in patients with advanced colorectal cancer and to identify pharmacokinetic (PK) interactions and toxicities. Eligible patients had measurable disease and adequate organ function. On day-14, patients commenced imatinib daily plus bevacizumab (5 mg/kg/2 weekly). Two weeks later (day 1), patients were also treated with full dose mFOLFOX6-bevacizumab for 12 cycles. Blood samples were taken for PK. DLTs defined in the first 6 weeks. Standard dose escalation of imatinib, with 3 patient cohorts: planned dose levels (DL): DL1; 400 mg, DL2; 600 mg, DL3; 800 mg daily. Ten patients enrolled. DL1 3 patients, DL2 7 patients. DLTs observed in 3 of 6 patients in DL2: febrile neutropenia (2); Grade 3 infection and Grade 4 neutropenia (1). Neutropenia was most frequent AEs: Grade 3/4 in >60 % of patients overall. In DL2 pts, imatinib clearance was reduced post-chemotherapy (P < 0.05). Oxaliplatin and 5FU PK unchanged by imatinib. MTD was imatinib 400 mg plus full dose mFOLFOX-bevacizumab. Dose escalation of imatinib limited by neutropenia. Further study is warranted as imatinib can be delivered at levels that inhibit PDGFR.

Possible Role of HLA-G, LILRB1 and KIR2DL4 Gene Polymorphisms in Spontaneous Miscarriage.

PubMed

Nowak, Izabela; Malinowski, Andrzej; Barcz, Ewa; Wilczyński, Jacek R; Wagner, Marta; Majorczyk, Edyta; Motak-Pochrzęst, Hanna; Banasik, Małgorzata; Kuśnierczyk, Piotr

2016-12-01

The KIR2DL4 receptor and its ligand HLA-G are considered important for fetal-maternal immune tolerance and successful pregnancy. The absence of a particular variant of KIR2DL4 might be a bad prognostic factor for pregnancy outcome. However, it could be compensated by the presence of the respective LILRB1 allele. Therefore, we investigated the KIR2DL4, LILRB1 and HLA-G polymorphisms in 277 couples with spontaneous abortion and 219 control couples by HRM, PCR-SSP and RFLP methods. We found a protective effect of women's heterozygosity in -716 HLA-G (p = 0.0206) and LILRB1 (p = 0.0131) against spontaneous abortion. Surprisingly, we observed more 9A/10A genotypes of KIR2DL4 gene carriers in the group of male partners from the miscarriage group in comparison to the men from the control group (p = 0.0288). Furthermore, there was no association of women's KIR2DL4 polymorphism with susceptibility to spontaneous abortion. Multivariate analysis indicated that women's -716 HLA-G and LILRB1 and men's KIR2DL4 9A/10A are important in terms of the protection or susceptibility to miscarriage, respectively (p = 0.00968). In conclusion, a woman's heterozygosity in HLA-G and LILRB1 might be an advantage for a success of reproduction, but the partner's heterozygosity in 9A/10A KIR2DL4 alleles might not.

OAI and NASA's Scientific and Technical Information

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nelson, Michael L.; Rocker, JoAnne; Harrison, Terry L.

2002-01-01

The Open Archives Initiative Protocol for Metadata Harvesting (OAI-PMH) is an evolving protocol and philosophy regarding interoperability for digital libraries (DLs). Previously, "distributed searching" models were popular for DL interoperability. However, experience has shown distributed searching systems across large numbers of DLs to be difficult to maintain in an Internet environment. The OAI-PMH is a move away from distributed searching, focusing on the arguably simpler model of "metadata harvesting". We detail NASA s involvement in defining and testing the OAI-PMH and experience to date with adapting existing NASA distributed searching DLs (such as the NASA Technical Report Server) to use the OAI-PMH and metadata harvesting. We discuss some of the entirely new DL projects that the OAI-PMH has made possible, such as the Technical Report Interchange project. We explain the strategic importance of the OAI-PMH to the mission of NASA s Scientific and Technical Information Program.

High serum total cholesterol is associated with suicide mortality in Japanese women.

PubMed

Svensson, T; Inoue, M; Sawada, N; Charvat, H; Mimura, M; Tsugane, S

2017-09-01

To investigate the association between serum total cholesterol (TC) and suicide using a large general population cohort with long follow-up times. Analyses included 16 341 men and 28 905 women aged 40-69 from the Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective Study followed from 1990 to 2012. TC levels were defined per clinical guidelines: low (<4.66 mmol/l [180 mg/dl]), normal (4.66-5.70 mmol/l [180-220 mg/dl]), and high (≥5.70 mmol/l [220 mg/dl]). Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to determine hazard ratios (HR) and confidence intervals (CI) for suicide according to TC level. Mean follow-up time was 19 years for men and 20 years for women. There were 185 suicides (men: 107; women: 78) during follow-up. Compared to women with normal TC, women with high TC had a significantly increased risk of suicide (HR = 1.90, 95% CI, 1.13-3.19). Incremental increases (0.26 mmol/l [10 mg/dl]) of low-density lipoprotein (HR = 1.11, 95% CI, 1.02-1.21) and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HR = 1.09, 95% CI, 1.01-1.18) were also associated with increased risk of suicide in women. There was no association between TC levels, or lipid fractions, and suicide in men. High TC levels may be associated with an increased risk of suicide in women. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

48 CFR 2953.102 - Quotation for Simplified Acquisitions DL 1-2078.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 7 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Quotation for Simplified Acquisitions DL 1-2078. 2953.102 Section 2953.102 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEPARTMENT OF LABOR CLAUSE AND FORMS FORMS General 2953.102 Quotation for Simplified Acquisitions DL 1-2078. The following...

Dichotic Listening and Left-Right Confusion

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hirnstein, Marco

2011-01-01

The present study examined the relationship between individual differences in dichotic listening (DL) and the susceptibility to left-right confusion (LRC). Thirty-six men and 59 women completed a consonant-vowel DL test, a behavioral LRC task, and an LRC self-rating questionnaire. Significant negative correlations between overall DL accuracy and…

7 CFR 205.603 - Synthetic substances allowed for use in organic livestock production.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... Water Act. (i) Calcium hypochlorite. (ii) Chlorine dioxide. (iii) Sodium hypochlorite. (8) Electrolytes... additives. (1) DL-Methionine, DL-Methionine—hydroxy analog, and DL-Methionine—hydroxy analog calcium (CAS... following maximum levels of synthetic methionine per ton of feed: laying chickens—4 pounds; broiler chickens...

7 CFR 205.603 - Synthetic substances allowed for use in organic livestock production.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... Water Act. (i) Calcium hypochlorite. (ii) Chlorine dioxide. (iii) Sodium hypochlorite. (8) Electrolytes... additives. (1) DL-Methionine, DL-Methionine—hydroxy analog, and DL-Methionine—hydroxy analog calcium (CAS... following maximum levels of synthetic methionine per ton of feed: laying chickens—4 pounds; broiler chickens...

7 CFR 205.603 - Synthetic substances allowed for use in organic livestock production.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... Water Act. (i) Calcium hypochlorite. (ii) Chlorine dioxide. (iii) Sodium hypochlorite. (8) Electrolytes.... (1) DL-Methionine, DL-Methionine-hydroxy analog, and DL-Methionine-hydroxy analog calcium (CAS #'s 59... maximum levels of synthetic methionine per ton of feed: Laying and broiler chickens—2 pounds; turkeys and...

7 CFR 205.603 - Synthetic substances allowed for use in organic livestock production.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... Water Act. (i) Calcium hypochlorite. (ii) Chlorine dioxide. (iii) Sodium hypochlorite. (8) Electrolytes.... (1) DL-Methionine, DL-Methionine-hydroxy analog, and DL-Methionine-hydroxy analog calcium (CAS #'s 59... maximum levels of synthetic methionine per ton of feed: Laying and broiler chickens—2 pounds; turkeys and...

Dorsolateral Prefrontal Contributions to Human Intelligence

PubMed Central

Barbey, Aron K.; Colom, Roberto; Grafman, Jordan

2012-01-01

Although cognitive neuroscience has made remarkable progress in understanding the involvement of the prefrontal cortex in executive control functions for human intelligence, the necessity of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) for key competencies of general intelligence and executive function remains to be well established. Here we studied human brain lesion patients with dlPFC lesions to investigate whether this region is computationally necessary for performance on neuropsychological tests of general intelligence and executive function, administering the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) and subtests of the Delis Kaplan Executive Function System (D-KEFS) to three groups: dlPFC lesions (n = 19), non-dlPFC lesions (n = 152), and no brain lesions (n = 55). The key results indicate that: (1) patients with focal dlPFC damage exhibit lower scores, at the latent variable level, than controls in general intelligence (g) and executive function; (2) dlPFC patients demonstrate lower scores than controls in several executive measures; and (3) these latter differences are no longer significant when the pervasive influence of the general factor of intelligence (g) is statistically removed. The observed findings support a central role for the dlPFC in general intelligence and make specific recommendations for the interpretation and application of the WAIS and D-KEFS to the study of high-level cognition in health and disease. PMID:22634247

Evaluation of a childhood lead questionnaire in predicting elevated blood lead levels in a rural community.

PubMed

Muñiz, Marco A; Dundas, Robert; Mahoney, Martin C

2003-01-01

The accuracy of a lead screening questionnaire in predicting elevated blood lead levels was examined in a pediatric practice in a rural part of New York state. A retrospective chart review was used to collect data on children ages 9 to 24 months who presented for well-child visits. Children with both questionnaire and lead level results available in the chart were included in the study (n = 171). The mean blood lead level among all children was 1.6 microg/dl (median = 2.0 microg/dl, range 0 to 24 microg/dl). Four children (2.3%) had elevated lead levels (greater than 10 microg/dl), with levels for two of these children being greater than 20 microg/dl. Although our lead screening questionnaire was expanded from the standard 1991 CDC questionnaire by the inclusion of six additional items, it was not especially useful in predicting elevated blood lead levels above 10 microg/dl. However, the questionnaire exhibited some utility in predicting marked elevations in blood lead levels (over 20 microg/dl). Although results in other geographic areas might differ, the lead questionnaire may have value by enhancing parents' awareness of potential lead hazards in their children's environment and may prove to be more useful in areas of high risk to lead exposure.

Internal coordination between hydraulics and stomatal control in leaves.

PubMed

Brodribb, Tim J; Jordan, Gregory J

2008-11-01

The stomatal response to changing leaf-atmospheric vapour pressure gradient (D(l)) is a crucial yet enigmatic process that defines the daily course of leaf gas exchange. Changes in the hydration of epidermal cells are thought to drive this response, mediated by the transpiration rate and hydraulic conductance of the leaf. Here, we examine whether species-specific variation in the sensitivity of leaves to perturbation of D(l) is related to the efficiency of water transport in the leaf (leaf hydraulic conductivity, K(leaf)). We found good correlation between maximum liquid (K(leaf)) and gas phase conductances (g(max)) in leaves, but there was no direct correlation between normalized D(l) sensitivity and K(leaf). The impact of K(leaf) on D(l) sensitivity in our diverse sample of eight species was important only after accounting for the strong relationship between K(leaf) and g(max). Thus, the ratio of g(max)/K(leaf) was strongly correlated with stomatal sensitivity to D(l). This ratio is an index of the degree of hydraulic buffering of the stomata against changes in D(l), and species with high g(max) relative to K(leaf) were the most sensitive to D(l) perturbation. Despite the potentially high adaptive significance of this phenomenon, we found no significant phylogenetic or ecological trend in our species.

Killer Immunoglobulin-Like Receptor Profiles Are not Associated with Risk of Amoxicillin-Clavulanate-Induced Liver Injury in Spanish Patients.

PubMed

Stephens, Camilla; Moreno-Casares, Antonia; López-Nevot, Miguel-Ángel; García-Cortés, Miren; Medina-Cáliz, Inmaculada; Hallal, Hacibe; Soriano, German; Roman, Eva; Ruiz-Cabello, Francisco; Romero-Gomez, Manuel; Lucena, M Isabel; Andrade, Raúl J

2016-01-01

Natural killer cells are an integral part of the immune system and represent a large proportion of the lymphocyte population in the liver. The activity of these cells is regulated by various cell surface receptors, such as killer Ig-like receptors (KIR) that bind to human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I ligands on the target cell. The composition of KIR receptors has been suggested to influence the development of specific diseases, in particularly autoimmune diseases, cancer and reproductive diseases. The role played in idiosyncratic drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is currently unknown. In this study, we examined KIR gene profiles and HLA class I polymorphisms in amoxicillin-clavulanate (AC) DILI patients in search for potential risk associations. One hundred and two AC DILI patients and 226 controls were genotyped for the presence or absence of 16 KIR loci, including the two pseudogenes 2DP1 and 3DP1. No significant differences were found in the distribution of individual KIRs between patients and controls, which were comparable to previously reported KIR data from ethnically similar cohorts. The 21.6 and 21.2% of the patients and controls, respectively, were homozygous haplotype A carriers, while 78.4 and 78.8%, respectively, contained at least one B haplotype (Bx). The genotypes translated into 27 (AC DILI) and 46 (controls) different gene profiles, with 19 being present in both groups. The most frequent Bx gene profile containing KIRs 2DS2, 2DL2, 2DL3, 2DP1, 2DL1, 3DL1, 2DS4, 3DL2, 3DL3, 2DL4, and 3PD1 was present in 16% of the DILI patients and 14% of the controls. The distribution of HLA class I epitopes did not differ significantly between AC DILI patients and controls. The most frequent receptor-ligand combinations in the DILI patients were 2DL3 + epitope C1 (67%) and 3DL1 + Bw4 motif (67%), while 2DL1 + epitope C2 (69%) and 3DL1 + Bw4 motif (69%) predominated in the controls. This is to our knowledge the first analysis of KIR receptor-HLA ligand associations in DILI, although our findings do not support evidence of these genetic variations playing a major role in AC DILI development.

Killer Immunoglobulin-Like Receptor Profiles Are not Associated with Risk of Amoxicillin-Clavulanate–Induced Liver Injury in Spanish Patients

PubMed Central

Stephens, Camilla; Moreno-Casares, Antonia; López-Nevot, Miguel-Ángel; García-Cortés, Miren; Medina-Cáliz, Inmaculada; Hallal, Hacibe; Soriano, German; Roman, Eva; Ruiz-Cabello, Francisco; Romero-Gomez, Manuel; Lucena, M. Isabel; Andrade, Raúl J.

2016-01-01

Natural killer cells are an integral part of the immune system and represent a large proportion of the lymphocyte population in the liver. The activity of these cells is regulated by various cell surface receptors, such as killer Ig-like receptors (KIR) that bind to human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I ligands on the target cell. The composition of KIR receptors has been suggested to influence the development of specific diseases, in particularly autoimmune diseases, cancer and reproductive diseases. The role played in idiosyncratic drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is currently unknown. In this study, we examined KIR gene profiles and HLA class I polymorphisms in amoxicillin-clavulanate (AC) DILI patients in search for potential risk associations. One hundred and two AC DILI patients and 226 controls were genotyped for the presence or absence of 16 KIR loci, including the two pseudogenes 2DP1 and 3DP1. No significant differences were found in the distribution of individual KIRs between patients and controls, which were comparable to previously reported KIR data from ethnically similar cohorts. The 21.6 and 21.2% of the patients and controls, respectively, were homozygous haplotype A carriers, while 78.4 and 78.8%, respectively, contained at least one B haplotype (Bx). The genotypes translated into 27 (AC DILI) and 46 (controls) different gene profiles, with 19 being present in both groups. The most frequent Bx gene profile containing KIRs 2DS2, 2DL2, 2DL3, 2DP1, 2DL1, 3DL1, 2DS4, 3DL2, 3DL3, 2DL4, and 3PD1 was present in 16% of the DILI patients and 14% of the controls. The distribution of HLA class I epitopes did not differ significantly between AC DILI patients and controls. The most frequent receptor-ligand combinations in the DILI patients were 2DL3 + epitope C1 (67%) and 3DL1 + Bw4 motif (67%), while 2DL1 + epitope C2 (69%) and 3DL1 + Bw4 motif (69%) predominated in the controls. This is to our knowledge the first analysis of KIR receptor-HLA ligand associations in DILI, although our findings do not support evidence of these genetic variations playing a major role in AC DILI development. PMID:27616993

The arthritis-associated HLA-B*27:05 allele forms more cell surface B27 dimer and free heavy chain ligands for KIR3DL2 than HLA-B*27:09

PubMed Central

Shaw, Jacqueline; Giles, Joanna; Hatano, Hiroko; Rysnik, Oliwia; Payeli, Sravan; McHugh, Kirsty; Dessole, Grazia; Porru, Giovanni; Desogus, Elisabetta; Fiedler, Sarah; Hölper, Soraya; Carette, Amanda; Blanco-Gelaz, Miguel Angel; Vacca, Alessandra; Piga, Matteo; Ibba, Valentina; Garau, Pietro; La Nasa, Giorgio; López-Larrea, Carlos; Mathieu, Alessandro; Renner, Christoph; Bowness, Paul; Kollnberger, Simon

2013-01-01

Objectives. HLA-B*27:05 is associated with AS whereas HLA-B*27:09 is not associated. We hypothesized that different interactions with KIR immune receptors could contribute to the difference in disease association between HLA-B*27:05 and HLAB*27:09. Thus, the objective of this study was to compare the formation of β2m-free heavy chain (FHC) including B27 dimers (B272) by HLA-B*27:05 and HLA-B*27:09 and their binding to KIR immunoreceptors. Methods. We studied the formation of HLA-B*27:05 and HLA-B*27:09 heterotrimers and FHC forms including dimers in vitro and in transfected cells. We investigated HLA-B*27:05 and HLA-B*27:09 binding to KIR3DL1, KIR3DL2 and LILRB2 by FACS staining with class I tetramers and by quantifying interactions with KIR3DL2CD3ε-reporter cells and KIR3DL2-expressing NK cells. We also measured KIR expression on peripheral blood NK and CD4 T cells from 18 HLA-B*27:05 AS patients, 8 HLA-B27 negative and 12 HLA-B*27:05+ and HLA-B*27:09+ healthy controls by FACS staining. Results. HLA-B*27:09 formed less B272 and FHC than HLA-B*27:05. HLA-B*27:05-expressing cells stimulated KIR3DL2CD3ε-reporter T cells more effectively. Cells expressing HLA-B*27:05 promoted KIR3DL2+ NK cell survival more strongly than HLA-B*27:09. HLA-B*27:05 and HLA-B*27:09 dimer tetramers stained KIR3DL1, KIR3DL2 and LILRB2 equivalently. Increased proportions of NK and CD4 T cells expressed KIR3DL2 in HLA-B*27:05+ AS patients compared with HLA-B*27:05+, HLA-B*27:09+ and HLA-B27− healthy controls. Conclusion. Differences in the formation of FHC ligands for KIR3DL2 by HLA-B*27:05 and HLA-B*27:09 could contribute to the differential association of these alleles with AS. PMID:23804219

Two-step grafting significantly enhances the survival of foetal dopaminergic transplants and induces graft-derived vascularisation in a 6-OHDA model of Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Büchele, Fabian; Döbrössy, Máté; Hackl, Christina; Jiang, Wei; Papazoglou, Anna; Nikkhah, Guido

2014-08-01

Following transplantation of foetal primary dopamine (DA)-rich tissue for neurorestaurative treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD), only 5-10% of the functionally relevant DAergic cells survive both in experimental models and in clinical studies. The current work tested how a two-step grafting protocol could have a positive impact on graft survival. DAergic tissue is divided in two portions and grafted in two separate sessions into the same target area within a defined time interval. We hypothesized that the first graft creates a "DAergic" microenvironment or "nest" similar to the perinatal substantia nigra that stimulates and protects the second graft. 6-OHDA-lesioned rats were sequentially transplanted with wild-type (GFP-, first graft) and transgenic (GFP+, second graft) DAergic cells in time interims of 2, 5 or 9days. Each group was further divided into two sub-groups receiving either 200k (low cell number groups: 2dL, 5dL, 9dL) or 400k cells (high cell number groups: 2dH, 5dH, 9dH) as first graft. During the second transplantation, all groups received the same amount of 200k GFP+ cells. Controls received either low or high cell numbers in one single session (standard protocol). Drug-induced rotations, at 2 and 6weeks after grafting, showed significant improvement compared to the baseline lesion levels without significant differences between the groups. Rats were sacrificed 8weeks after transplantation for post-mortem histological assessment. Both two-step groups with the time interval of 2days (2dL and 2dH) showed a significantly higher survival of DAergic cells compared to their respective standard control group (2dL, +137%; 2dH, +47%). Interposing longer intervals of 5 or 9days resulted in the loss of statistical significance, neutralising the beneficial two-step grafting effect. Furthermore, the transplants in the 2dL and 2dH groups had higher graft volume and DA-fibre-density values compared to all other two-step groups. They also showed intense growth of GFP+ vessels - completely absent in control grafts - in regions where the two grafts overlap, indicating second-graft derived angiogenesis. In summary, the study shows that two-step grafting with a 2days time interval significantly increases DAergic cell survival compared to the standard protocol. Furthermore, our results demonstrate, for the first time, a donor-derived neoangiogenesis, leading to a new understanding of graft survival and development in the field of cell-replacement therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Waist-to-height ratio and sedentary lifestyle as predictors of metabolic syndrome in children in Ecuador.

PubMed

Aguirre P, F; Coca, A; Aguirre, M F; Celis, G

2017-11-04

To determine the predictors and prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) and the presence of vascular inflammation in apparently-normal children (10-15 years) of both sexes in Guayaquil, Ecuador. We included 395 apparently-healthy students from a middle-income school in a cross-sectional survey. Informed consent was obtained from students and parents. Anthropometric measurements including blood pressure (BP), body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and blood tests were recorded. Vascular inflammation parameters were assessed. Percentiles of the different parameters were used, and MS was defined according to National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria (NCEP-ATPIII). Waist circumference>P 75, blood pressure>P 90, glucose>100mg/dl, triglycerides>100mg/dl, HDL<45mg/dl. If 3 of the 5 criteria were present, this was considered MS. The mean age was 12 years (186 boys, 209 girls). The overall prevalence of MS was 9.37% (6.33% in girls, 3.04% in boys). Sustained hypertension was detected in 6.6% of children and pre-hypertension in 7.1%. Obesity was found in 1.8% of subjects, and overweight in 15.2%. Triglycerides has a RR 2.34 (1.97-2.76); HOMA index has a RR 1.97(1.62-2.40); HDL cholesterol has a RR 1.84(1.58-2.13); Insulin level has a RR 1.53(1.40-1.67) and interleukin 6 has RR 1.83(1.20-2.79). Serum glucose, total cholesterol and LDL-Cholesterol had no association with the metabolic syndrome. HDL-Cholesterol<45mg/dl and triglyceride>100mg/dl were present in 70% of subjects with MS. The WHtR threshold≥0.5 was 100% sensitive in both sexes (67% specificity in boys and 69% in girls). There were significant associations between the WHtR and pre-hypertension and sedentary lifestyle (P<0.001 and P<0.003 respectively). A WHtR value of ≥0.50 indicated a 2.2-fold increased risk of MS compared with normal WHtR, and normal weight. A WHtR≥0.5 was 100% sensitive in detecting MS in 10-15 year-old boys and girls in the normal or overweight range of the BMI. This assessment is a simple and practical tool for use in population-based studies of cardiovascular risk. When combined with pre-hypertension and a sedentary lifestyle, the WHtR is highly sensitive in predicting MS. Copyright © 2017 SEH-LELHA. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Modeling of indoor radon concentration from radon exhalation rates of building materials and validation through measurements.

PubMed

Kumar, Amit; Chauhan, R P; Joshi, Manish; Sahoo, B K

2014-01-01

Building materials are the second major source of indoor radon after soil. The contribution of building materials towards indoor radon depends upon the radium content and exhalation rates and can be used as a primary index for radon levels in the dwellings. The radon flux data from the building materials was used for calculation of the indoor radon concentrations and doses by many researchers using one and two dimensional model suggested by various researchers. In addition to radium content, the radon wall flux from a surface strongly depends upon the radon diffusion length (L) and thickness of the wall (2d). In the present work the indoor radon concentrations from the measured radon exhalation rate of building materials calculated using different models available in literature and validation of models was made through measurement. The variation in the predicted radon flux from different models was compared with d/L value for wall and roofs of different dwellings. The results showed that the radon concentrations predicted by models agree with experimental value. The applicability of different model with d/L ratio was discussed. The work aims to select a more appropriate and general model among available models in literature for the prediction of indoor radon. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Pre-Treatment Anemia Is a Poor Prognostic Factor in Soft Tissue Sarcoma Patients

PubMed Central

Szkandera, Joanna; Gerger, Armin; Liegl-Atzwanger, Bernadette; Stotz, Michael; Samonigg, Hellmut; Ploner, Ferdinand; Stojakovic, Tatjana; Leithner, Andreas; Pichler, Martin

2014-01-01

Background Anemia refers to low hemoglobin (Hb) levels, represents a common symptom and complication in cancer patients and was reported to negatively influence survival in patients with various malignancies. In the present study, we aimed to explore the prognostic impact of pre-operative Hb levels on clinical outcome in a large cohort of soft tissue sarcoma (STS) patients after curative surgery. Methods Retrospective data from 367 STS patients, which were operated between 1998 and 2013, were included in the study. Cut-off levels for anemia were defined as Hb<13 g/dl in males and Hb<12 g/dl in females according to the current WHO guidelines. The impact of pre-operative Hb levels on cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS) was assessed using Kaplan-Meier curves. Additionally, Hb levels were compared for the prognostic influence on CSS and OS applying univariate and multivariate Cox proportional models. Results Hb level was associated with established prognostic factors, including age, tumor grade, size and depth (p<0.05). Kaplan-Meier curves showed that low Hb levels were significantly associated with decreased CSS and OS in STS patients (p<0.001 for both endpoints, log-rank test). In multivariate analysis, we found an independent association between low Hb levels and poor CSS and OS (HR = 0.46, Cl 95% = 0.25–0.85, p = 0.012; HR = 0.34, Cl 95% = 0.23–0.51, p<0.001). Conclusion The present data underline a negative prognostic impact of low pre-operative Hb levels on clinical outcome in STS patients. Thus, Hb levels may provide an additional and cost-effective tool to discriminate between STS patients that are at high risk of mortality. PMID:25207808

Desorption kinetics of ciprofloxacin in municipal biosolids determined by diffusion gradient in thin films.

PubMed

D'Angelo, E; Starnes, D

2016-12-01

Ciprofloxacin (CIP) is a commonly-prescribed antibiotic that is largely excreted by the body, and is often found at elevated concentrations in treated sewage sludge (biosolids) at municipal wastewater treatment plants. When biosolids are applied to soils, they could release CIP to surface runoff, which could adversely affect growth of aquatic organisms that inhabit receiving water bodies. The hazard risk largely depends on the amount of antibiotic in the solid phase that can be released to solution (labile CIP), its diffusion coefficient, and sorption/desorption exchange rates in biosolids particles. In this study, these processes were evaluated in a Class A Exceptional Quality Biosolids using a diffusion gradient in thin films (DGT) sampler that continuously removed CIP from solution, which induced desorption and diffusion in biosolids. Mass accumulation of antibiotic in the sampler over time was fit by a diffusion transport and exchange model available in the software tool 2D-DIFS to derive the distribution coefficient of labile CIP (K dl ) and sorption/desorption rate constants in the biosolids. The K dl was 13 mL g -1 , which equated to 16% of total CIP in the labile pool. Although the proportion of labile CIP was considerable, release rates to solution were constrained by slow desorption kinetics (desorption rate constant = 4 × 10 -6 s -1 ) and diffusion rate (effective diffusion coefficient = 6 × 10 -9  cm 2  s -1 . Studies are needed to investigate how changes in temperature, water content, pH and other physical and chemical characteristics can influence antibiotic release kinetics and availability and mobility in biosolid-amended soils. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of hyperglycemia on fluorine-18-fluorodeoxyglucose biodistribution in a large oncology clinical practice.

PubMed

Rosica, Dillenia; Cheng, Su-Chun; Hudson, Margo; Sakellis, Christopher; Van den Abbeele, Annick D; Kim, Chun K; Jacene, Heather A

2018-05-01

Suggested cutoff points of blood glucose levels (BGL) before F-FDG PET/CT scanning vary between 120 and 200 mg/dl in current guidelines. This study's purpose was to compare the frequency of abnormal fluorine-18-fluorodeoxyglucose (F-FDG) biodistribution on PET/CT scans of patients with various ranges of abnormal BGL and to determine the effect of BGL greater than 200 mg/dl on F-FDG uptake in various organs. F-FDG PET/CT scans were retrospectively reviewed for 325 patients with BGL greater than 120 mg/dl at the time of scan and 112 with BGL less than or equal to 120 mg/dl. F-FDG biodistribution was categorized as normal, mildly abnormal, or abnormal by visual analysis of brain, background soft tissue, and muscle. Mean standardized uptake values (SUVmean) in brain, liver, fat (flank), gluteal muscle, and blood pool (aorta) were recorded. F-FDG biodistribution frequencies were assessed using a nonparametric χ-test for trend. Normal organ SUVs were compared using Kruskal-Wallis tests using the following BGL groupings: ≤120, 121-150, 151-200, and ≥201 mg/dl. Although higher BGL were significantly associated with an increased proportion of abnormal biodistribution (P<0.001), most patients with BGL less than or equal to 200 mg/dl had normal or mildly abnormal biodistribution. Average brain SUVmean significantly decreased with higher BGL groupings (P<0.001). Average aorta, gluteal muscle, and liver SUVmean did not significantly differ among groups with BGL greater than 120 mg/dl (P=0.66, 0.84, and 0.39, respectively), but were significantly lower in those with BGL less than or equal to 120 mg/dl (P≤0.001). Flank fat SUVmean was not significantly different among BGL groups (P=0.67). Abnormal F-FDG biodistribution is associated with higher BGL at the time of scan, but the effects are negligible or mild in most patients with BGL less than 200 mg/dl. Although mildly increased soft tissue uptake is seen with BGL greater than 120 mg/dl, decline in brain metabolic activity correlated the most with various BGL.

The Hartung-Knapp-Sidik-Jonkman method for random effects meta-analysis is straightforward and considerably outperforms the standard DerSimonian-Laird method

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background The DerSimonian and Laird approach (DL) is widely used for random effects meta-analysis, but this often results in inappropriate type I error rates. The method described by Hartung, Knapp, Sidik and Jonkman (HKSJ) is known to perform better when trials of similar size are combined. However evidence in realistic situations, where one trial might be much larger than the other trials, is lacking. We aimed to evaluate the relative performance of the DL and HKSJ methods when studies of different sizes are combined and to develop a simple method to convert DL results to HKSJ results. Methods We evaluated the performance of the HKSJ versus DL approach in simulated meta-analyses of 2–20 trials with varying sample sizes and between-study heterogeneity, and allowing trials to have various sizes, e.g. 25% of the trials being 10-times larger than the smaller trials. We also compared the number of “positive” (statistically significant at p < 0.05) findings using empirical data of recent meta-analyses with > = 3 studies of interventions from the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Results The simulations showed that the HKSJ method consistently resulted in more adequate error rates than the DL method. When the significance level was 5%, the HKSJ error rates at most doubled, whereas for DL they could be over 30%. DL, and, far less so, HKSJ had more inflated error rates when the combined studies had unequal sizes and between-study heterogeneity. The empirical data from 689 meta-analyses showed that 25.1% of the significant findings for the DL method were non-significant with the HKSJ method. DL results can be easily converted into HKSJ results. Conclusions Our simulations showed that the HKSJ method consistently results in more adequate error rates than the DL method, especially when the number of studies is small, and can easily be applied routinely in meta-analyses. Even with the HKSJ method, extra caution is needed when there are = <5 studies of very unequal sizes. PMID:24548571

Entrococcus faecalis Elimination in Root Canals Using Silver Nanoparticles, Photodynamic Therapy, Diode Laser, or Laser-activated Nanoparticles: An In Vitro Study.

PubMed

Afkhami, Farzaneh; Akbari, Saba; Chiniforush, Nasim

2017-02-01

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), an 810-nm diode laser (DL), conventional photodynamic therapy (PDT) with the use of indocyanine green (ICG) photosensitizer, and modified PDT with the use of AgNPs for the disinfection of root canals inoculated with Enterococcus faecalis. The root canals of 65 extracted human single-rooted teeth were prepared, and E. faecalis was incubated in the root canals for 4 weeks. The teeth were then randomly divided into the following 4 experimental groups: the DL group: 810-nm DL irradiation (1 W, 4 times for 10 seconds), the AN group: 5 minutes of irrigation with 5 mL AgNPs (100 ppm), the ICG/DL group: conventional PDT with ICG (1 mg/mL)/810-nm DL (200 mW, 30 seconds), and the AN/ICG/DL group: modified PDT with AgNPs/ICG/810-nm DL (200 mW, 30 seconds). There was also a control group, which consisted of 5 minutes of irrigation with 5 mL 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (n = 9). Samples were obtained from dentin chips before and after the interventions. A reduction in colony count was assessed by counting the colony-forming units. Significant reductions were noted in E. faecalis colony counts in all groups (P < .05). The greatest reduction in colony count (99.12%) was noted in the AN/ICG/DL group (AgNPs/ICG/810-nm diode laser); however, the differences in this respect between the AN/ICG/DL group and the DL (97.41%), AN (94.42%), and control groups (94.61%) were not significant (P > .05). PDT with ICG, an 810-nm diode laser, and AgNPs has the potential to be used as an adjunct for disinfection of the root canal system. Copyright © 2016 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

TU-F-CAMPUS-J-03: Evaluation of a New GE Device-Less Cine 4D-CT

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

Martin, R; Pan, T; Chandler, A

2015-06-15

Purpose: Standard cine 4D-CT (S-4DCT) is the cine CT scan of the thorax followed by image sorting with the respiratory signal recorded by the RPM. Although the feasibility of cine 4D-CT without RPM or device-less 4DCT (DL-4DCT) has been reported in a laboratory setting, the only commercial implementation of DL-4DCT was made recently by GE based on the measurements of the lung, body and air area and density. We report the initial results of this new DL-4DCT on its determination of gross tumor volume (GTV). Methods: 30 stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) patients with NSCLC were included in the study.more » All patients received the S-4DCT for their treatment planning. Their cine CT data without the respiratory signal from RPM were submitted to the DL-4DCT. The DL-4DCT image quality was assessed in reference to S-4DCT. Using maximum intensity projection (MIP) images, the GTVs of the S-4DCT and DL-4DCT were compared on a subset of 9 patients whose tumors in the low density lung regions could be contoured using a region growing algorithm in MIM without contouring bias from the user. A lower threshold of −424 HU was used for all patients and other algorithm parameters were held constant for each patient. Results: The DL-4DCT was able to produce the 4DCT images on 29 out of the 30 SBRT cases. One case failed due to the enhanced calcification surrounding both the breast implants. The GTVs determined on the 9 patients with DL-4DCT were 4.2 ± 4.8% smaller than the GTVs with S-4DCT. However, this was statistically insignificant (p=0.15). The Dice similarity coefficients were 95.1 ± 1.8%. The image quality of DL-4DCT and S-4DCT was similar on the 29 cases. Conclusion: The first commercial DL-4DCT was promising in generating 4D-CT images without a respiratory monitoring device in this preliminary study of 30 patients.« less

Metabolic control and chronic complications during a 3-year follow-up period in a cohort of type 2 diabetic patients attended in primary care in the Community of Madrid (Spain).

PubMed

Arrieta, Francisco; Piñera, Marbella; Iglesias, Pedro; Nogales, Pedro; Salinero-Fort, Miguel Angel; Abanades, Juan Carlos; Botella-Carretero, José Ignacio; Calañas, Alfonso; Balsa, José Antonio; Zamarrón, Isabel; Rovira, Adela; Vázquez, Clotilde

2014-01-01

Our aim was to analyze both metabolic control and chronic complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) patients regularly attended in primary care during a 3 years of follow-up in the Community of Madrid (Spain). From 2007 to 2010 we prospectively included 3268 patients with T2D attended by 153 primary care physicians from 51 family health centers. An prospective cohort study with annual evaluation over 3 years to the same population was performed. We measured the goals of control in diabetic patients and the incidence of chronic complications of diabetes during the study period. A significant decrease in serum glucose levels (143±42mg/dl vs 137±43mg/dl, p<0.00), HbA1c (7.09±1.2% vs 7.02±1.2%, p<0.00), total cholesterol (191.4±38mg/dl vs 181.5±36mg/dl, p<0.00), LDL cholesterol (114.7±31mg/dl vs 105.5±30mg/dl, p<0.00) and triglyceride levels (144.5±93mg/dl vs 138±84mg/dl, p<0.00) during study period was documented. On the contrary, a significant elevation in HDL cholesterol levels was observed (49.2±14mg/dl vs 49.9±16mg/dl, p<0.00). The incidence of diabetic complications throughout the study period was low, with a incidence of coronary heart disease of 6.2%, peripheral arterial disease 3%, ischemic stroke 2.8%, diabetic foot 11.2%, nephropathy 5.9%, retinopathy 4.5%, and neuropathy 3%. Metabolic control in T2D patients attended in primary care in the Community of Madrid throughout 3 years is adequate and is accompanied by low percent of chronic diabetic complications during this period of follow-up. Copyright © 2013 SEEN. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

A variant of green fluorescent protein exclusively deposited to active intracellular inclusion bodies

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Inclusion bodies (IBs) were generally considered to be inactive protein deposits and did not hold any attractive values in biotechnological applications. Recently, some IBs of recombinant proteins were confirmed to show their functional properties such as enzyme activities, fluorescence, etc. Such biologically active IBs are not commonly formed, but they have great potentials in the fields of biocatalysis, material science and nanotechnology. Results In this study, we characterized the IBs of DL4, a deletion variant of green fluorescent protein which forms active intracellular aggregates. The DL4 proteins expressed in Escherichia coli were exclusively deposited to IBs, and the IBs were estimated to be mostly composed of active proteins. The spectral properties and quantum yield of the DL4 variant in the active IBs were almost same with those of its native protein. Refolding and stability studies revealed that the deletion mutation in DL4 didn’t affect the folding efficiency of the protein, but destabilized its structure. Analyses specific for amyloid-like structures informed that the inner architecture of DL4 IBs might be amorphous rather than well-organized. The diameter of fluorescent DL4 IBs could be decreased up to 100–200 nm by reducing the expression time of the protein in vivo. Conclusions To our knowledge, DL4 is the first GFP variant that folds correctly but aggregates exclusively in vivo without any self-aggregating/assembling tags. The fluorescent DL4 IBs have potentials to be used as fluorescent biomaterials. This study also suggests that biologically active IBs can be achieved through engineering a target protein itself. PMID:24885571

Blood lead survey of children, pregnant women, professional drivers, street workers, and office workers in Trujillo, Peru.

PubMed

Naeher, Luke P; Aguilar-Villalobos, Manuel; Miller, Todd

2004-07-01

In this pilot study, conducted in summer 2002, the authors measured blood lead levels (BLLs) for 118 subjects in the city of Trujillo, Peru, where leaded gasoline is in the process of being phased out. Subjects included bus drivers, combi (minivan) drivers, street vendors, newspaper vendors, traffic police, taxi drivers, gas station attendants, children living both near and distant from gas stations, pregnant women, and office workers (controls). The highest BLLs were 9.2 microg/dl and 9.3 microg/dl from a child who lived near a gas station and from a traffic policeman, respectively; however, all BLLs were below the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's advisory level of concern (10 microg/dl). Office workers (n = 8) and pregnant women (n = 36) had significantly lower BLLs (geometric mean +/- standard deviation = 2.1 +/- 0.7 microg/dl, p < 0.022; and 2.5 +/- 1.1 microg/dl, p < 0.008, respectively) than total traffic-exposed workers (n = 48; 3.2 +/- 1.8 microg/dl). BLLs of children living near gas stations (n = 17; 3.7 +/- 2.2 microg/dl) were marginally higher (p = 0.07) than for children not living near gas stations (n = 9; 2.9 +/- 1.1 microg/dl). The study was limited by small sample size and the fact that the data were based on a convenience sample not fully representative of the cohorts studied. Nevertheless, the authors' findings suggest that leaded gasoline use in Trujillo continues to affect BLLs in traffic-exposed populations.

Effects of cocoa products/dark chocolate on serum lipids: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Tokede, O A; Gaziano, J M; Djoussé, L

2011-08-01

Cocoa products, which are rich sources of flavonoids, have been shown to reduce blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular disease. Dark chocolate contains saturated fat and is a source of dietary calories; consequently, it is important to determine whether consumption of dark chocolate adversely affects the blood lipid profile. The objective was to examine the effects of dark chocolate/cocoa product consumption on the lipid profile using published trials. A detailed literature search was conducted via MEDLINE (from 1966 to May 2010), CENTRAL and ClinicalTrials.gov for randomized controlled clinical trials assessing the effects of flavanol-rich cocoa products or dark chocolate on lipid profile. The primary effect measure was the difference in means of the final measurements between the intervention and control groups. In all, 10 clinical trials consisting of 320 participants were included in the analysis. Treatment duration ranged from 2 to 12 weeks. Intervention with dark chocolate/cocoa products significantly reduced serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and total cholesterol (TC) levels (differences in means (95% CI) were -5.90 mg/dl (-10.47, -1.32 mg/dl) and -6.23 mg/dl (-11.60, -0.85 mg/dl), respectively). No statistically significant effects were observed for high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (difference in means (95% CI): -0.76 mg/dl (-3.02 to 1.51 mg/dl)) and triglyceride (TG) (-5.06 mg/dl (-13.45 to 3.32 mg/dl)). These data are consistent with beneficial effects of dark chocolate/cocoa products on total and LDL cholesterol and no major effects on HDL and TG in short-term intervention trials.

Influence of triglycerides on other plasma lipids in middle-aged men intended for hypolipidaemic treatment.

PubMed

Kolovou, Genovefa D; Anagnostopoulou, Katherine K; Salpea, Klelia D; Hoursalas, Ioannis S; Petropoulos, Ilias; Bilianou, Helen I; Damaskos, Dimitris S; Giannakopoulou, Vasiliki N; Cokkinos, Dennis V

2006-01-01

The present investigation aimed to evaluate the influence of serum triglycerides (TG) on other plasma lipids in male patients less than 65 years of age intended for hypolipidaemic treatment. Lipid profiles of a cohort of 412 dyslipidaemic male patients aged 53.4 +/- 7.7 years (mean +/- standard deviation) were evaluated. Patients were stratified in accordance with their fasting plasma lipid levels. They were divided into multiple groups on the basis of serum TG (> or = 150 or < 150 mg/dl) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C > or = 40 or < 40 mg/dl). Patients with TG > or = 150 mg/dl had higher total cholesterol and lower HDL-C levels compared with those with TG < 150 mg/dl (p = 0.005 and p < 0.001, respectively). Patients with HDL-C < 40 mg/dl had similar total cholesterol levels and higher TG levels compared to those with HDL-C > or = 40 mg/dl (p < 0.001). In all patients, an inverse correlation between TG and HDL-C was found (r = -0.286, p < 0.001). Additionally, HDL-C levels were inversely correlated with the TG concentration in patients with TG < 150 mg/dl (r = -0.135, p = 0.042) and TG > or = 150 mg/dl (r = -0.188, p = 0.002). An inverse correlation between TG and HDL-C levels seems to exist in the sampled population, revealing a close link between the metabolic pathways for TG and HDL-C. This inverse correlation appears to persist even in patients with low fasting TG levels.

Comparison of the effects of seleno-l-methionine, seleno-dl-methionine, and selenized yeast on reproduction of mallards

USGS Publications Warehouse

Heinz, G.H.; Hoffman, D.J.

1996-01-01

The toxicities of seleno-L-methionine, seleno-DL-methionine, and selenized yeast were compared. Ten pairs of mallards were fed a control diet and 15 pairs were fed diets containing 10 ppm selenium as seleno-DL-methionine, seleno-L-methionine, or selenized yeast. Hatching of fertile eggs was significantly lower for females fed 10 ppm selenium as seleno-DL-methionine (7.6%) and seleno-L-methionine (6.4%) than for controls (41.3%). Survival of ducklings was lower when their parents had been fed 10 ppm selenium as seleno-L-methionine (20.0%) than for controls (98.4%). The number of 6-day-old ducklings produced per female was significantly lower for mallards fed 10 ppm selenium as seleno-DL-methionine (0.47) or selenized yeast (2.67) than for controls (6.10), and was significantly lower for mallards fed seleno-L-methionine (0.13) than for mallards fed selenized yeast. The eighth eggs of females fed the DL or L forms of selenomethionine contained means of 9.2 and 8.9 ppm selenium, wet weight; these means were higher than the mean (6.6 ppm) for females fed selenized yeast. Among embryos that died at 7 days of age or older, the percentage of embryos that were deformed was 1.3% for controls, 24.6% for seleno-DL-methionine, 28.2% for seleno-L-methionine, and 11.0% for selenized yeast. The results suggested that seleno-DL-methionine and seleno-L-methionine were of similar toxicity and were both more toxic than selenium from selenized yeast.

Comparative analysis of salivary glucose and electrolytes in diabetic individuals with periodontitis.

PubMed

Lasisi, T J; Fasanmade, A A

2012-06-01

A high incidence of periodontal disease has been reported among diabetics, however the role of saliva in the occurrence of this oral disease in these patients is yet to be understood. To determine the effects of type-2 diabetes and periodontal disease on salivary flow rate and biochemical composition. A prospective study involving 40 adult human subjects divided equally into four groups of diabetics with periodontitis (group 1), diabetics without periodontitis (group 2), non diabetics with periodontitis (group 3) and non diabetics without periodontitis (group 4). Saliva samples were collected and analyzed for salivary glucose, total protein, calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride and bicarbonate. Salivary flow rates were also determined. Salivary glucose and potassium levels were significantly higher (P = 0.002 and 0.04 respectively) in diabetic patients regardless of periodontal disease (mean = 100.7 ± 9.33 mg/dl; 111.5 ± 32.85 mg/dl and 23.79 ± 5.19 mg/dl; 22.9 ± 6.25 mg/dl respectively) compared with non diabetic participants (mean = 80.5 ± 30.85 mg/ dl; 62.5 ± 31.89 mg/dl and 19.23 ± 5.04 mg/dl; 17.74 ± 4.68 mg/dl respectively). In contrast, there was no significant difference in saliva flow rates and levels of total protein, Na(+), Ca(++), Cl(-) and HCO3 (-)between the groups. Salivary glucose and potassium levels were significantly higher among diabetics with or without periodontitis compared with non-diabetics with or without periodontitis. However, biochemical composition of saliva in diabetic individuals has probably little role in their susceptibility to periodontitis.

Prevalence of atherogenic dyslipidemia: association with risk factors and cardiovascular risk in Spanish working population. "ICARIA" study.

PubMed

Cabrera, M; Sánchez-Chaparro, M A; Valdivielso, P; Quevedo-Aguado, L; Catalina-Romero, C; Fernández-Labandera, C; Ruiz-Moraga, M; González-Santos, P; Calvo-Bonacho, E

2014-08-01

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of atherogenic dyslipidemia (AD) and the lipid triad (LT) in the working population in Spain, their associated variables and how far they are linked to cardiovascular risk (CVR). Observational cross-sectional study of 70,609 workers (71.5% male (M), 28.5% female (F), mean age 39.2 ± 10), who attended medical checkups and agreed to participate. Plasma samples were analysed in a central laboratory. AD definition used was: triglycerides ≥150 mg/dl and HDL cholesterol <40 mg/dl (M)/<50 mg/dl (F) and LT when LDL cholesterol > 160 mg/dl is further added. Univariate comparisons in the absence and presence of AD and LT and the probability of AD according to different parameters and their possible association with CVR were assessed. CVR was stratified following the European SCORE model for low risk-population. 5.7% (95% CI 4.7-6.9) of the working population have AD and 1.1% (95% CI 1.0-1.2) LT. In univariate analysis, workers with AD and LT had a higher prevalence of obesity, hypertension, smoking and diabetes than those who had not (p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, BMI, sex, age 40-49, diabetes, tobacco, uric acid, LDL or blood pressure significantly influenced the risk of AD. AD was significantly associated with CVR after adjusting for alcohol and obesity. However, most of the AD subjects (91.8%) were classified as low risk. About 6% of the working population in Spain meets AD criteria. Assuming that these subjects have increased CVR, AD allows to identify additional 5% of subjects with increased CVR to that one the SCORE model detects, helping to improve cardiovascular risk stratification. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Analysis of Pharmacists' Attitudes toward a Distance Learning Initiative on Health Screening.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Whiteman, Jane; And Others

1994-01-01

A survey of 436 community pharmacists completing a distance learning (DL) course of continuing education (CE) in health screening, and 117 nonparticipants, found participants more positively disposed toward DL. Most found DL enjoyable and more suitable than other CE methods. More females and fewer males than expected requested and completed the…

Classification of Chinese herbs based on the cluster analysis of delayed luminescence.

PubMed

Pang, Jingxiang; Yang, Meina; Fu, Jialei; Zhao, Xiaolei; van Wijk, Eduard; Wang, Mei; Liu, Yanli; Zhou, Xiaoyan; Fan, Hua; Han, Jinxiang

2016-03-01

Traditional Chinese material medica are an important component of the Chinese pharmacopeia. According to the traditional Chinese medicinal concept, Chinese herbal medicines are classified into different categories based on their therapeutic effects, however, the bioactive principles cannot be solely explained by chemical analysis. The aim of this study is to classify different Chinese herbs based on their therapeutic effects by using delayed luminescence (DL). The DL of 56 Chinese herbs was measured using an ultra-sensitive luminescence detection system. The different DL parameters were used to classify Chinese herbs according to a hierarchical cluster analysis. The samples were divided into two groups based on their DL kinetic parameters. Interestingly, the DL classification results were quite consistent with classification according to the Chinese medicinal concepts of 'cold' and 'heat' properties. In this paper, we show for the first time that by using DL technology, it is possible to classify Chinese herbs according to the Chinese medicinal concept and it may even be possible to predict their therapeutic properties. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Effect of flaxseed gum on reduction of blood glucose and cholesterol in type 2 diabetic patients.

PubMed

Thakur, Goutam; Mitra, Analava; Pal, Kunal; Rousseau, Dérick

2009-01-01

The effects of ingestion of flaxseed gum on blood glucose and cholesterol, particularly low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, in type 2 diabetes were evaluated. Flaxseed gum was incorporated in wheat flour chapattis. Sixty patients of type 2 diabetes were fed a daily diet for 3 months, along with six wheat flour chapattis containing flaxseed gum (5 g), as per the recommendations of the American Diabetic Association. The control group (60 individuals) consumed an identical diet but the chapattis were without gum. The blood biochemistry profiles monitored before starting the study and at monthly intervals showed fasting blood sugar in the experimental group decreased from 154 ± 8 mg/dl to 136 ± 7 mg/dl (P=0.03) while the total cholesterol reduced from 182 ± 11 mg/dl to 163 ± 9 mg/dl (P=0.03). Results showed a decrease in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol from 110 ± 8 mg/dl to 92 ± 9 mg/dl (P=0.02). The study demonstrated the efficacy of flax gum in the blood biochemistry profiles of type 2 diabetes.

Glutathione and 2,3-diphosphoglycerate in the blood of hypoxic ruminants.

PubMed

O'Dea, J D; Agar, N S

1980-09-01

Two merino sheep and two angora goats were subjected to simulated altitudes of up to 5500 m for about 10 h per day for 38 days. Packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb) concentration and red blood cell (RBC) levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG) were measured at regular intervals. Mean PCV increased from 33 per cent to 60 per cent in the sheep and from 33 per cent to 45 per cent in the goats. Mean Hb concentration rose from 11.7 g/dl to 23.1 g/dl in the sheep, and from 11.4 g/dl to 16.0 g/dl in the goats. The level of GSH began to rise in the sheep only after the animals were no longer being subjected to the hypoxic stress, increasing by about 20 mg/dl RBC. In the goats, the levels of GSH rose during, as well as after, the period of hypoxic stress, also by about 20 mg/dl RBC. No change in 2,3-DPG levels was found in either species.

Coexposure of dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls and polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans in free-range hens and implications derived from congener profile analysis.

PubMed

Lin, Chingju; Hsu, Jing-Fang; Liao, Pao-Chi

2012-02-29

The consumption of free-range eggs is becoming more popular worldwide. We analyzed the levels of 12 dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dl-PCBs) and their congener profiles from 6 free-range and 12 caged egg samples. The mean levels of dl-PCBs in the free-range samples were 5.4 times higher than those in caged eggs. All egg samples exhibited at least two characteristic dl-PCB congener patterns, which reflected distinctive contamination sources. Additionally, for the first time, we demonstrated that the dl-PCB levels in the free-range eggs were highly correlated with elevated levels of 17 polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) (r = 0.986; p < 0.001), indicating a coexposure scenario in free-range hens. Cluster analysis of congener patterns implied that this coexposure scenario could be attributed to distinct dl-PCB and PCDD/F sources. This congener profile information provides insights from a different perspective for further identifying potential dl-PCB and PCDD/F sources in the polluted free-range eggs.

Association between Oral Nutritional Supplementation and Clinical Outcomes among Patients with ESRD

PubMed Central

Cheu, Christine; Pearson, Jeffrey; Dahlerus, Claudia; Lantz, Brett; Chowdhury, Tania; Sauer, Peter F.; Farrell, Robert E.; Port, Friedrich K.

2013-01-01

Summary Background and objectives Oral nutritional supplementation (ONS) was provided to ESRD patients with hypoalbuminemia as part of Fresenius Medical Care Health Plan’s (FMCHP) disease management. This study evaluated the association between FMCHP’s ONS program and clinical outcomes. Design, setting, participants, & measurements Analyses included FMCHP patients with ONS indication (n=470) defined as 2-month mean albumin <3.8 g/dl until reaching a 3-month mean ≥3.8 g/dl from February 1, 2006 to December 31, 2008. Patients did not receive ONS if deemed inappropriate or refused. Patients on ONS were compared with patients who were not, despite meeting ONS indication. Patients with ONS indication regardless of use were compared with Medicare patients with similar serum albumin levels from the 2007 Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Clinical Performance Measures Project (CPM). Cox models calculated adjusted hospitalization and mortality risks at 1 year. Results Among patients with indication for ONS, 276 received supplements and 194 did not. ONS use was associated with 0.058 g/dl higher serum albumin overall (P=0.02); this difference decreased by 0.001 g/dl each month (P=0.05) such that the difference was 0.052 g/dl (P=0.04) in month 6 and the difference was no longer significant in month 12 . In analyses based on ONS use, ONS patients had lower hospitalization at 1 year (68.4%; P<0.01) versus patients without ONS (88.7%), but there was no significant reduction in mortality risk (P=0.29). In analyses based on ONS indication, patients with indication had lower mortality at 1 year (16.2%) compared with CPM patients (23.4%; P<0.01). Conclusions These findings suggest that ONS use was associated with significantly lower hospitalization rates but had no significant effect on mortality in a disease management setting. PMID:23085729

A Review of the “Bolus Guide,” A New Insulin Bolus Dosing Support Tool Based on Selection of Carbohydrate Ranges

PubMed Central

Pańkowska, Ewa

2010-01-01

In this issue of Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, Shapira and colleagues present new concepts of carbohydrate load estimation in intensive insulin therapy. By using a mathematical model, they attempt to establish how accurately carbohydrate food content should be maintained in order to keep postprandial blood glucose levels in the recommended range. Their mathematical formula, the “bolus guide” (BG), is verified by simulating prandial insulin dosing and responding to proper blood glucose levels. Different variants such as insulin sensitivity factor, insulin-to-carbohydrate ratio, and target blood glucose were taken into this formula in establishing the calculated proper insulin dose. The new approach presented here estimates the carbohydrate content by rearranging the carbohydrate load instead of the simple point estimation that the current bolus calculators (BCs) use. Computerized estimations show that the BG directives, as compared to a BC, result in more glucose levels above 200 mg/dl and thus indicate less hypoglycemia readings. PMID:20663454

ER2OWL: Generating OWL Ontology from ER Diagram

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fahad, Muhammad

Ontology is the fundamental part of Semantic Web. The goal of W3C is to bring the web into (its full potential) a semantic web with reusing previous systems and artifacts. Most legacy systems have been documented in structural analysis and structured design (SASD), especially in simple or Extended ER Diagram (ERD). Such systems need up-gradation to become the part of semantic web. In this paper, we present ERD to OWL-DL ontology transformation rules at concrete level. These rules facilitate an easy and understandable transformation from ERD to OWL. The set of rules for transformation is tested on a structured analysis and design example. The framework provides OWL ontology for semantic web fundamental. This framework helps software engineers in upgrading the structured analysis and design artifact ERD, to components of semantic web. Moreover our transformation tool, ER2OWL, reduces the cost and time for building OWL ontologies with the reuse of existing entity relationship models.

Brain tumor image segmentation using kernel dictionary learning.

PubMed

Jeon Lee; Seung-Jun Kim; Rong Chen; Herskovits, Edward H

2015-08-01

Automated brain tumor image segmentation with high accuracy and reproducibility holds a big potential to enhance the current clinical practice. Dictionary learning (DL) techniques have been applied successfully to various image processing tasks recently. In this work, kernel extensions of the DL approach are adopted. Both reconstructive and discriminative versions of the kernel DL technique are considered, which can efficiently incorporate multi-modal nonlinear feature mappings based on the kernel trick. Our novel discriminative kernel DL formulation allows joint learning of a task-driven kernel-based dictionary and a linear classifier using a K-SVD-type algorithm. The proposed approaches were tested using real brain magnetic resonance (MR) images of patients with high-grade glioma. The obtained preliminary performances are competitive with the state of the art. The discriminative kernel DL approach is seen to reduce computational burden without much sacrifice in performance.

Experimental evidence of a double layer in a large volume helicon reactor.

PubMed

Sutherland, O; Charles, C; Plihon, N; Boswell, R W

2005-11-11

The self-consistently generated current-free electric double layer (DL) is shown to scale up with the source tube diameter and appears not to be affected by rf driving frequency and changes in reactor geometry. This Letter presents the first simultaneous measurements of local plasma potential and beam energy as a function of axial position. The DL is shown to be no more than 5 mm thick (20 D lengths) and positioned just downstream of the maximum in the magnetic field gradient. Furthermore, its position relative to the magnetic field is observed to be invariant as the magnetic field is translated axially. Measurements of the potential drop across the DL are presented for pressures down to 0.09 mTorr and the DL strength (phiDL/T(e)) is determined to be between 5 and 7.

Steady-state serum salicylate levels in hospitalized patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Comparison of two dosage schedules of choline magnesium trisalicylate.

PubMed

Cassell, S; Furst, D; Dromgoole, S; Paulus, H

1979-04-01

When the total daily drug dose was individualized to produce a steady-state serum salicylate concentration between 20 and 35 mg/dl, clinically acceptable fluctuations of serum concentrations occurred during both twice daily and three times daily administration. In 6 rheumatoid arthritis patients receiving choline magnesium trisalicylate, mean steady-state serum levels were the same, and the ranges of hourly mean concentrations during 8 and 12 hour dosage intervals were 19 to 27 mg/dl and 17 to 30 mg/dl, respectively. Changing the dosing interval from 8 to 12 hours required a 50% increase in the fractional doses, but resulted in an increase of only 3 mg/dl in mean peak concentration and a ddecrease of 1 mg/dl in mean minimum concentration.

The novel non-imidazole histamine H3 receptor antagonist DL77 reduces voluntary alcohol intake and ethanol-induced conditioned place preference in mice.

PubMed

Bahi, Amine; Sadek, Bassem; Nurulain, Syed M; Łażewska, Dorota; Kieć-Kononowicz, Katarzyna

2015-11-01

It has become clear that histamine H3 receptors (H3R) have been implicated in modulating ethanol intake and preference in laboratory animals. The novel non-imidazole H3R antagonist DL77 with excellent selectivity profile shows high in-vivo potency as well as in-vitro antagonist affinity with ED50 of 2.1 ± 0.2 mg/kg and pKi=8.08, respectively. In the present study, and applying an unlimited access two-bottle choice procedure, the anti-alcohol effects of the H3R antagonist, DL77 (0, 3, 10 and 30 mg/kg; i.p.), were investigated in adult mice. In this C57BL/6 line, effects of DL77 on voluntary alcohol intake and preference, as well as on total fluid intake were evaluated. Results have shown that DL77, dose-dependently, reduced both ethanol intake and preference. These effects were very selective as both saccharin and quinine, used to control for taste sensitivity, and intakes were not affected following DL77 pre-application. More importantly, systemic administration of DL77 (10 mg/kg) during acquisition inhibited ethanol-induced conditioned-place preference (EtOH-CPP) as measured using an unbiased protocol. The anti-alcohol activity observed for DL77 was abrogated when mice were pretreated with the selective H3R agonist R-(α)-methyl-histamine (RAMH) (10 mg/kg), or with the CNS penetrant H1R antagonist pyrilamine (PYR) (10mg/kg). These results suggest that DL77 has a predominant role in two in vivo effects of ethanol. Therefore, signaling via H3R is essential for ethanol-related consumption and conditioned reward and may represent a novel therapeutic pharmacological target to tackle ethanol abuse and alcoholism. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Acute administration of alprazolam, a benzodiazepine activating GABA receptors, inhibits cortisol secretion in patients with subclinical but not overt Cushing's syndrome.

PubMed

Giordano, Roberta; Berardelli, Rita; Karamouzis, Ioannis; D'Angelo, Valentina; Picu, Andreea; Zichi, Clizia; Fussotto, Beatrice; Manzo, Maria; Mengozzi, Giulio; Ghigo, Ezio; Arvat, Emanuela

2013-09-01

The purpose of this study is to verify whether acute pre-treatment with alprazolam (ALP), a benzodiazepine that inhibits HPA secretion in normal subjects, could better characterize patients with subclinical Cushing's syndrome (SCS) than the 1-mg dexamethasone test (DST). In 22 patients with SCS, 10 with overt Cushing's syndrome (CS), 11 with non-functioning adrenal incidentalomas (NF) and 14 normal subjects (NS) we studied the effect of ALP (1 mg, p.o. at 2300 hours) on cortisol levels after 1-mg DST. Cortisol levels (mean ± SEM) after DST were lower (P = 0.012) in SCS (3.9 ± 0.3 μg/dl) than in overt CS (10.4 ± 1.9 μg/dl), while they were higher (P = 0.0005) than in NF (1.1 ± 0.1 μg/dl) and NS (1.5 ± 0.1 μg/dl). After ALP pre-treatment, cortisol levels further decreased (P = 0.004) in SCS (3.0 ± 0.3 μg/dl), but neither in CS (9.3 ± 1.3 μg/dl) nor in NF (1.3 ± 0.1 μg/dl) and in NS (1.3 ± 0.1 μg/dl). In SCS, cortisol levels after ALP + 1-mg DST persisted lower (P = 0.0005) than those in CS, but higher (P = 0.0005) than those in NF and NS. Considering individual cases, ALP pre-treatment reduced cortisol levels < 3 and < 1.8 μg/dl in 50 and 23 % of SCS patients, respectively. ALP amplifies the cortisol inhibition exerted by 1-mg DST in patients with SCS but not in those with CS. The clinical usefulness of ALP to increase the sensitivity of 1-mg DST to identify true autonomous cortisol release in patients with adrenal incidentalomas as well as to predict different clinical outcomes remains to be clarified.

Stress-induced hyperglycemia on complications in non-critically elderly hospitalized patients.

PubMed

Carrasco-Sánchez, F J; Carretero-Gómez, J; Gómez-Huelgas, R; Garcia-Ordoñez, M A; Pardo-Ortega, M V; de Escalante-Yanguela, B; Mateos-Polo, L; Formiga, F; Ena, J

Hospital complications and hyperglycemia are common in elderly patients during hospitalization. Our aim was to analyze the relationship between hyperglycemia and hospital complications in an ageing population. We conducted an observational study to evaluate the association between maximum blood glucose (MBG) levels and hospital complications. Patients were stratified according to the quartiles of MBG levels. Diabetes mellitus (DM) was determined by patient history and/or admission glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level ≥6.5%. Hyperglycemia in patients without DM was defined as stress-induced hyperglycemia (SH). The composite primary end-point included frequent complications and/or all-cause hospital mortality. Among 461 patients, mean age 80±7.5years, 238 (51.6%) patients had DM, 20 had undiagnosed DM, and 162 (35.1%) developed hospital complications. Patients with complications had higher mean daily BG levels (215±84 vs 195±85mg/dl, P<.01). The incidence of complications was directly associated with severity of hyperglycemia according to the quartiles of MBG levels in patients without DM, namely SH (<140 mg/dl, 22.2%; 140-185mg/dl, 40%; 186-250mg/dl, 47%; >250mg/dl, 60%; P=.002), but not in patients with DM (<140mg/dl, 26.3%; 140-185mg/dl, 40.4%; 186-250mg/dl, 35.6%; >250mg/dl, 37.4%; P=.748). In the multivariate analyses, SH was independently associated with complications: OR 2.60 (CI95%: 1.2-5.6), 2.82 (CI95%: 1.2-6.5), 5.50 (CI95%: 1.4-20.8) for the second, third and fourth quartile respectively (P=.01), as compared to the first quartile. We found no association with readmissions and all-cause mortality. SH in elderly patients is associated with hospital complications, but not with all-cause mortality, compared to patients with diabetes or normoglycemia. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and Sociedad Española de Medicina Interna (SEMI). All rights reserved.

Role of dorsolateral periaqueductal grey in the coordinated regulation of cardiovascular and respiratory function.

PubMed

Dampney, Roger A L; Furlong, Teri M; Horiuchi, Jouji; Iigaya, Kamon

2013-04-01

The midbrain periaqueductal grey (PAG) contains four longitudinal columns, referred to as the dorsomedial (dmPAG), dorsolateral (dlPAG), lateral (lPAG) and ventrolateral (vlPAG) subdivisions, which collectively have a pivotal role in integrating behavioural and physiological responses to external stressors as well as other functions. This review is focussed on the dlPAG, which is believed to be an important component of the central mechanisms that generate the defensive response to acute psychological stressors, such as the presence of a predator or other immediate threat. The anatomical connections of the dlPAG are highly specific and distinctly different from those of the other PAG subregions. The chemical properties of the dlPAG are also distinctly different from the other PAG subregions (e.g. there is a very high density of neurons that synthesize nitric oxide in the dlPAG but very few such neurons in the other PAG subregions). Recent functional studies have demonstrated that neurons in the dlPAG exert a powerful control over both sympathetic and respiratory activity, and that the pattern of the evoked respiratory changes is also distinctly different from those evoked from other PAG subregions. These studies also showed that the sympathetic and respiratory changes evoked from the dlPAG are highly correlated, suggesting the possibility that a common population of "command neurons" within this region may generate the sympathetic and respiratory changes that accompany defensive behavioural responses to acute psychological stressors. Finally, although the anatomical connections and functional properties of the dlPAG are distinctly different from the other PAG subregions, they have many similarities with adjacent parts of the superior colliculus, suggesting that the dlPAG and deep layers of the superior colliculus may be part of a common defence system in the midbrain. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Analysis of the vp2 gene sequence of a new mutated mink enteritis parvovirus strain in PR China

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Mink enteritis virus (MEV) causes a highly contagious viral disease of mink with a worldwide distribution. MEV has a linear, single-stranded, negative-sense DNA with a genome length of approximately 5,000 bp. The VP2 protein is the major structural protein of the parvovirus encoded by the vp2 gene. VP2 is highly antigenic and plays important roles in determining viral host ranges and tissue tropisms. This study describes the bionomics and vp2 gene analysis of a mutated strain, MEV-DL, which was isolated recently in China and outlines its homologous relationships with other selected strains registered in Genbank. Results The MEV-DL strain can infect F81 cells with cytopathic effects. Pig erythrocytes were agglutinated by the MEV-DL strain. The generation of MEV-DL in F81 cells could infect mink within three months and cause a disease that was similar to that caused by wild-type MEV. A comparative analysis of the vp2 gene nucleotide (nt) sequence of MEV-DL showed that this was more than 99% homologous with other mink enteritis parvoviruses in Genbank. However, the nucleotide residues at positions 1,065 and 1,238 in the MEV-DL strain of the vp2 gene differed from those of all the other MEV strains described previously. It is noteworthy that the mutation at the nucleotide residues position 1,238 led to Asp/Gly replacement. This may lead to structural changes. A phylogenetic tree and sequence distance table were obtained, which showed that the MEV-DL and ZYL-1 strains had the closest inheritance distance. Conclusions A new variation of the vp2 gene exists in the MEV-DL strain, which may lead to structural changes of the VP2 protein. Phylogenetic analysis showed that MEV-DL may originate from the ZYL-1 strain in DaLian. PMID:20540765

Comparison of serum trace element levels in patients with or without pre-eclampsia

PubMed Central

Farzin, Leila; Sajadi, Fattaneh

2012-01-01

Objective: In developing countries, nutritional deficiency of essential trace elements is a common health problem, particularly among pregnant women because of increased requirements of various nutrients. Accordingly, this study was initiated to compare trace elements status in women with or without pre-eclampsia. Materials and Methods: In this study, serum trace elements including zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), copper (Cu), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) were determined by using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) in 60 patients and 60 healthy subjects. Results: There was no significant difference in the values of Cu between two groups (P > 0.05). A significant difference in Zn, Se, Ca and Mg levels were observed between patients with pre-eclampsia and control group (P < 0.001, P<0.01, P<0.01 and P<0.001, respectively). Zn, Se, Ca and Mg levels were found to be 76.49 ± 17.62 μg/ dl, 8.82 ± 2.10 μg/ dl, 8.65 ± 2.14 mg/dl and 1.51 ± 0.34 mg/dl in Pre-eclamptic cases, and these values were found statistically lower compared to the controls (100.61 ± 20.12 μg/dl, 10.47 ± 2.78 μg/dl, 9.77 ± 3.02 mg/dl and 1.78 ± 0.27 mg/dl, respectively). While Cu levels were 118.28 ± 16.92 and 116.55 ± 15.23 μg/dl in the patients and the healthy subjects, respectively. In addition, no significant difference was found between two groups with respect to Hemoglobin Concentration (HbC) and Total White Blood Cell Count (TWBC) (P>0.05). Conclusion: Our findings indicate that the levels of Zn, Se, Ca and Mg are significantly altered in pregnant women with pre-eclampsia. This research shows that these deficiencies can not due to hemodilution. PMID:23825993

Rotavirus-like particles primary recovery from insect cells in aqueous two-phase systems.

PubMed

Benavides, Jorge; Mena, Jimmy A; Cisneros-Ruiz, Mayra; Ramírez, Octavio T; Palomares, Laura A; Rito-Palomares, Marco

2006-09-14

Virus-like particles have a wide range of applications, including vaccination, gene therapy, and even as nanomaterials. Their successful utilization depends on the availability of selective and scalable methods of product recovery and purification that integrate effectively with upstream operations. In this work, a strategy based on aqueous two phase system (ATPS) was developed for the recovery of double-layered rotavirus-like particles (dlRLP) produced by the insect cell-baculovirus expression system. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecular mass, PEG and salt concentrations, and volume ratio (Vr, volume of top phase/volume of bottom phase) were evaluated in order to determine the conditions where dlRLP and contaminants concentrated to opposite phases. Two-stage ATPS consisting of PEG 400-phosphate with a Vr of 13.0 and a tie-line length (TLL) of 35% (w/w) at pH 7.0 provided the best conditions for processing highly concentrated crude extract from disrupted cells (dlRLP concentration of 5 microg/mL). In such conditions intracellular dlRLP accumulated in the top phase (recovery of 90%), whereas cell debris remained in the interface. Furthermore, dlRLP from culture supernatants accumulated preferentially in the interface (recovery of 82%) using ATPS with a Vr of 1.0, pH of 7.0, PEG 3350 (10.1%, w/w) and phosphate (10.9%, w/w). The purity of dlRLP from culture supernatant increased up to 55 times after ATPS. The use of ATPS resulted in a recovery process that produced dlRLP with a purity between 6 and 11% and an overall product yield of 85% (w/w), considering purification from intracellular and extracellular dlRLP. Overall, the strategy proposed in this study is simpler than traditional methods for recovering dlRLP, and represents a scalable and economically viable alternative for production processes of vaccines against rotavirus infection with significant scope for generic commercial application.

Possible selective adsorption of enantiomers by Na-montmorillonite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Friebele, E.; Shimoyama, A.; Ponnamperuma, C.

1981-01-01

Racemic amino acids including (D,L) alpha-alamine, (D,L) alpha-aminobutyric acid, (D,L) valine, and (D,L) norvaline were incubated with Na-montmorillonite at 100% CEC at three hydrogen ion concentrations, and amino acid adsorption was determined by ion exchange chromatography. Enantiomers were analyzed by gas chromatography. Differences in the quantities of D and L enantiomers in any of the fractions was no larger than a few percent. Although a large difference in the adsorption of the amino acid enantiomers was not observed, the analysis may indicate a small preferential adsorption (0.5-2%) of L-amino acids by Na-montmorillonite.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in Daily Life Training: A Feasibility Study of an mHealth Intervention

PubMed Central

Bakker, Jindra; Vaessen, Thomas; Kasanova, Zuzana; Collip, Dina; van Os, Jim; Wichers, Marieke; Germeys, Inez; Peeters, Frenk

2016-01-01

Background With the development of mHealth, it is possible to treat patients in their natural environment. Mobile technology helps to bridge the gap between the therapist’s office and the “real world.” The ACT in Daily Life training (ACT-DL) was designed as an add-on intervention to help patients practice with acceptance and commitment therapy in their daily lives. The ACT-DL consists of two main components: daily monitoring using experience sampling and ACT training in daily life. Objectives To assess the acceptability and feasibility of the ACT-DL in a general outpatient population. A secondary objective was to conduct a preliminary examination of the effectiveness of the ACT-DL. Methods An observational comparative study was conducted. The experimental group consisted of 49 patients who volunteered for ACT-DL, and the control group consisted of 112 patients who did not volunteer. As part of an inpatient treatment program, both groups received a 6-week ACT training. Participants went home to continue their treatment on an outpatient basis, during which time the experimental group received the 4-week add-on ACT-DL. Acceptability and feasibility of the ACT-DL was assessed weekly by telephone survey. Effectiveness of the ACT-DL was evaluated with several self-report questionnaires ( Flexibility Index Test (FIT-60): psychological flexibility, Brief Symptom Inventory: symptoms, Utrechtse Coping List: coping, and Quality of life visual analog scale (QoL-VAS): quality of life). Results More than three-quarters of the participants (76%) completed the full 4-week training. User evaluations showed that ACT-DL stimulated the use of ACT in daily life: participants practiced over an hour a week (mean 78.8 minutes, standard deviation 54.4), doing 10.4 exercises (standard deviation 6.0) on average. Both ACT exercises and metaphors were experienced as useful components of the training (rated 5 out of 7). Repeated measures ANCOVA did not show significant effects of the ACT-DL on psychological flexibility (P=.88), symptoms (P=.39), avoidant coping (P=.28), or quality of life (P=.15). Conclusions This is the first study that uses experience sampling to foster awareness in daily life in combination with acceptance and commitment therapy to foster skill building. Adherence to the ACT-DL was high for an intensive mHealth intervention. ACT-DL appears to be an acceptable and feasible mHealth intervention, suitable for a broad range of mental health problems. However, short-term effectiveness could not be demonstrated. Additional clinical trials are needed to examine both short-term and long-term effects. PMID:27634747

Assessing oral candidal carriage with mixed salivary glucose levels as non-invasive diagnostic tool in type-2 diabetics of davangere, karnataka, India.

PubMed

Naik, Rashmi; Mujib B R, Ahmed; Raaju, U R; Telagi, Neethu

2014-07-01

The health of oral tissues is known to be related to salivary flow and its composition which may be altered in diabetic patients. The purpose of this study is to correlate mixed salivary glucose levels and oral candidal carriage and to assess the prevalence of candidal carriage in diabetics and controls. Thirty adults with type-2 diabetes and 30 without diabetes (control subjects), aged 30-60 yr, participated in the study. Unstimulated saliva was collected and investigated for glucose levels (using glucose oxidase method) and colony-forming units (CFU) of Candida, this was stained with two stains, periodic acid-schiff stain and Grocott Gomori stain. In the present study mixed salivary glucose concentration in diabetics was significantly higher (p<0.01) compared to the controls. Diabetics with intraoral candidal carriage had higher salivary glucose levels (mean = 12.76±5.85 mg/dl) compared to cases where Candida was not isolated. The diabetics without intraoral candidal carriage had lower salivary glucose levels (mean = 5.36±2.24 mg/dl). This relationship could be seen in controls (non-diabetics) also. Diabetics showed an oral candidal carriage rate of 80% which was significantly higher compared to nondiabetics who showed an oral candidal carriage rate of 40%. Mixed salivary glucose levels were significantly higher in diabetics. The possible high salivary glucose level could predispose to oral candidal infection. So saliva can be used as a quick, non-invasive tool to assess the oral candidal status and possible infection.

Conversion from cyclosporine to tacrolimus improves renal function and lipid profile after cardiac transplantation.

PubMed

Garlicki, Mirosław; Czub, Paweł; Labuś, Krzysztof; Ehrlich, Marek P; Rdzanek, Hanna

2006-01-01

Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) have become the cornerstone of immunosuppressive regimens following heart transplantation, but their use is associated with nephrotoxicity. The impact on renal function after conversion from cyclosporine (CsA) to tacrolimus (TAC) is reported. Fifteen patients (men age 42 +/- 11 years) after cardiac transplantation (HTX) were switched from CsA to TAC (mean time after HTX 21 +/- 6 months). There were 13 male and 2 female patients. Mean cholesterol and LDL level at the time of conversion were 217 +/- 65 ml/dl and and 136 +/- 51 mg/100 ml respectively. Indication for HTX was ischemic cardiomyopathy (CMP) in 8, congenital in 3 and dilatative CMP in the remaining 4 patients. Mean tacrolimus level (microg/dl) at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months were 8.6 +/- 3.3, 8.6 +/- 1.4, 9.2 +/- 2.8 and 9.8 +/- 2.5 respectively. There was a statistically significant improvement in creatinine levels at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after conversion from baseline 1.9 +/- 0.7 mg/dl to 1.4 +/- 0.5 mg/dl, 1.4 +/- 0.4 mg/dl, 1.3 +/- 0.4 mg/dl and 1.2 +/- 0.4 mg/dl, respectively (p < 0.05). Furthermore, TAC decreased cholesterol as well as LDL-levels during this one-year time frame. This study shows that conversion from CsA to tacrolimus after orthotopic heart transplantation improves renal function.

Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation over right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex alters decision making during approach-avoidance conflict.

PubMed

Chrysikou, Evangelia G; Gorey, Claire; Aupperle, Robin L

2017-03-01

Approach-avoidance conflict (AAC) refers to situations associated with both rewarding and threatening outcomes. The AAC task was developed to measure AAC decision-making. Approach behavior during this task has been linked to self-reported anxiety sensitivity and has elicited anterior cingulate, insula, caudate and right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) activity, with right lateral PFC tracking the extent of approach behavior. Guided by these results, we used excitatory transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to demonstrate the causal involvement of right dlPFC in AAC decision-making. Participants received anodal tDCS at 1.5mA over either left or right dlPFC or sham stimulation, while performing the AAC task and a control short-term memory task. Analyses of variance (ANOVA) revealed that for individuals with high anxiety sensitivity excitatory right (but not left or sham) dlPFC stimulation elicited measurable decreases in approach behavior during conflict. Excitatory left (but not right or sham) dlPFC simulation improved performance on the control task. These results support a possible asymmetry between the contributions of right and left dlPFC to AAC resolution during emotional decision-making. Increased activity in right dlPFC may contribute to anxiety-related symptoms and, as such, serve as a neurobehavioral target of anxiolytic treatments aiming to decrease avoidance behavior. © The Author (2016). Published by Oxford University Press.

Four Families of Multi-Variant Issues in Graduate-Level Asynchronous Online Courses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gisburne, Jaclyn M.; Fairchild, Patricia J.

2004-01-01

This is the first of several papers developed from a faculty and student perspective describing a new distance learning (DL) model. Integral to the model are four interrelated families of multi-variant issues, referred to here as (a) the academic divide, (b) student misalignment, (c) administrative influences, and (d) the use of student…

Students' Perceived Service Quality of Distance Learning Courses in a Dual-Mode Education System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yener, Dursun

2013-01-01

Distance learning (DL) has become an important part of university education. In the past DL was applied in different universities with different forms. With rapid technological developments, DL gained a new format through the Internet. Students can take courses online wherever they are geographically. Therefore, working people and adults can…

Comparing the NPS MBA Resident and Distance Programs

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-01

17 D. ARTICLES ON HYBRID DELIVERY OF EDUCATION .................21 E. BENEFITS AND COSTS OF DL...isolation, potentially reducing the student stress reported by Ni (2013) that can occur in DL programs. E. BENEFITS AND COSTS OF DL Both tangible...PROGRAMS June 2017 By: Mara F. Rosenthal Advisors: Marigee Bacolod Latika Hartmann Approved for public release. Distribution

21 CFR 172.540 - DL-Alanine.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... Agents and Related Substances § 172.540 DL-Alanine. DL-Alanine (a racemic mixture of D- and L-alanine; CAS Reg. No. 302-72-7) may be safely used as a flavor enhancer for sweeteners in pickling mixtures at a level not to exceed 1 percent of the pickling spice that is added to the pickling brine. [56 FR...

Optical resolution of phenylthiohydantoin-amino acids by capillary electrophoresis and identification of the phenylthiohydantoin-D-amino acid residue of [D-Ala2]-methionine enkephalin.

PubMed

Kurosu, Y; Murayama, K; Shindo, N; Shisa, Y; Ishioka, N

1996-11-01

This is an initial report to propose a protein sequence analysis system with DL differentiation using capillary electrophoresis (CE). This system consists of a protein sequencer and a CE system. After fractionation of phenyl-thiohydantoin (PTH)-amino acids using a protein sequencer, optical resolution for each PTH-amino acid is performed by CE using some chiral selectors such as digitonin, beta-escin and others. As a model peptide, [D-Ala2]-methionine enkephalin (L-Tyr-D-Ala-Gly-L-Phe-L-Met), was used and the sequence with DL differentiation was determined, with the exception of the fourth amino acid, L-Phe, using our proposed system.

Morphology of mandibular first molars analyzed by cone-beam computed tomography in a Korean population: variations in the number of roots and canals.

PubMed

Kim, Sin-Young; Kim, Bom Sahn; Woo, Jein; Kim, Yemi

2013-12-01

The aim of this study was to determine the root and canal morphology of the mandibular first molars in a Korean population of Mongolian origin by retrospective analysis of a large number of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. A total of 976 subjects with bilateral mandibular first molars were examined by using in vivo CBCT methods. The number and configuration of roots, the number of root canals, and the canal configuration based on Vertucci's classification were determined. Overall, 25.82% of examined molars had 3 roots, 73.51% had 2 roots, and 0.67% had 1 root. The incidence of fourth canal was 50.36%. A right-sided predominance was noted for extra distal roots (P < .001), whereas a left-sided predominance was observed for extra distal canals (P < .001). No significant sex-related differences were shown for their prevalence. The bilateral prevalence rate was 69.13% for extra distal roots and 78.08% for extra distolingual (DL) canals. In the mesial roots, type IV canal was the most frequent (76.86% for 2-rooted molars and 72.96% for 3-rooted molars). In the distal roots, type l was the most common (66.62% for 2-rooted molars and 99.40%-100% for 3-rooted molars). The incidence of 2 canals in distobuccal roots, first reported in this study, was 0.15%. Among mandibular first molars, there is a high prevalence of a separate DL root and/or a separate DL canal, and such molars commonly have 4 canals in the Korean population. CBCT is a useful tool for determining root and canal morphology. Copyright © 2013 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The impact of clinical pharmacists in improving Jordanian patients’ health outcomes

PubMed Central

Hammad, Eman A.; Qudah, Rajaa A.; Akour, Amal A.

2017-01-01

Objectives: To assess the impacts of clinical pharmacists on Jordanian patients’ health outcomes. Methods: A systematic review was conducted until July 2016 within EBSCO, Pubmed, Cochrane database, and ISI Web of Knowledge. Published studies evaluating the benefit of clinical pharmacy services on therapeutic, safety, humanistic, and economic outcomes in hospital or community settings in Jordan were targeted. Two reviewers independently extracted and assessed risk of bias using a pre-published validated tool. The literature search identified 130 publications of which 21 full texts met predetermined inclusion criteria. Results: Studies were of moderate quality. Pharmacist interventions resulted in an average reduction (95% CI) in systolic blood pressure of 5.45 mm Hg (2.95-7.92) and diastolic blood pressure of 3.03 mm Hg (1.09-4.96). The mean reduction in glycosylated hemoglobin was 0.75% (-0.49-1.99) and fasting blood sugar was 36.73 mg/dl (-19.7-93.1). The average reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol was 2.36 (1.8-16.62) mg/dl and triglycerides was 20.16 (6.14-46.47). There was a minimal increase in the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol of 1.24 (1.64-4.11) mg/dl. Effects on safety along with humanistic and economic outcomes and long term effects remained unclear. Conclusion: Published evidence from Jordan highlights service opportunities for clinical pharmacists. Favorable but not always statistically significant impacts were found on therapeutic outcomes. More studies are needed to understand safety, humanistic, economic, and long-term outcomes. Therefore, the add-on benefits of this service to the health system are not well understood. Future studies of higher rigor and multi-perspective outcomes are mandated. PMID:29114694

Identification of mildly oxidized low-density lipoprotein (electronegative LDL) and its auto-antibodies IgG in children and adolescents hypercholesterolemic offsprings.

PubMed

Barros, Marcos Roberto Andrade Costa; Bertolami, Marcelo Chiara; Abdalla, Dulcinéia Saes Parra; Ferreira, Waldinai Pereira

2006-01-01

Oxidative modification of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) is an essential step in atherogenesis, generating minimally oxidized LDL, also called electronegative LDL [LDL(-)], which has chemotactic, cytotoxic and immunogenic properties. Serum LDL(-) and anti-LDL(-) auto-antibodies (IgG) were evaluated in 28 children and adolescents with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) antecedents, with or without early coronary artery disease in first-degree relatives (eCAD), hypercholesterolemic (hc) or normocholesterolemic (nc) versus a control group of normocholesterolemic children without pathologic antecedents (C). ELISA method was used for detection of LDL(-) and anti-LDL(-) IgG. LDL(-) serum levels did not differ among the four groups (FH-eCAD-hc 41.4 +/- 24.9 microg/dl; FH-hc 38.3 +/- 11.2 microg/dl; FH-nc 47.3 +/- 17.0 microg/dl and C 44.2 +/- 28.8 microg/dl, p = 0.659). However, IgG anti-LDL(-) auto-antibodies were significantly higher in the control group in comparison to the FH groups with or without eCAD, independent of hypercholesterolemia or normocholesterolemia (FH-eCAD-hc 0.825 +/- 0.289 microg/dl; FH-hc 0.667 +/- 0.307 microg/dl; FH-nc 0.763 +/- 0.204 microg/dl and C 1.105 +/- 0.233 microg/dl, p = 0.006). When the auto-antibodies of groups with FH, with or without eCAD and with or without hypercholesterolemia were compared, no differences were found (p = 0.509). These results showed that FH and/or eCAD children and adolescents have lower titers of auto-antibodies anti-LDL(-) than children from normal families, independent of serum LDL-cholesterol or serum LDL(-).

Maternal hemoglobin concentration and adverse pregnancy outcomes at low and moderate altitudes in Peru.

PubMed

Gonzales, Gustavo F; Tapia, Vilma; Gasco, Manuel; Carrillo, Carlos E

2012-07-01

To identify associations of maternal hemoglobin (Hb) with perinatal outcomes at low and moderate altitudes in Peru. Study of records with sequential information using perinatal database system. The study included 295 651 pregnant women with their products. Using multiple logistic regression analysis, we estimated the probability of stillbirths, preterm and small for gestational age (SGA) births associated with maternal Hb levels at low (0-1999 m) and moderate altitudes (2000-2999 m). Maternal Hb decreased as pregnancy progressed from first to third trimester at both altitudes. Hb was higher at moderate than at low altitude (p < 0.001). Risks for stillbirths increased with low maternal Hb (odds ratio [OR]: 1.39 for Hb 9-9.9; OR: 1.84 for Hb 8-8.9; OR: 3.25 for Hb 7-7.9; and OR: 7.8 for Hb <7 g/dl); with Hb higher than 14.5 g/dl (OR: 1.31) and with altitudes ≥ 2000 m (OR: 1.2). High preterm rates were also observed with low Hbs (OR: 1.16 for Hb 9-9.9; OR: 1.64 for Hb 8-8.9; OR: 2.25 for Hb 7-7.9; and OR:2.87 for Hb<7 g/dl) and with Hb higher than 14.5 g/dl (OR: 1.14). High SGA rates were observed in neonates with maternal Hb of 7-7.9 (OR: 1.35) and <7 g/dl (OR:1.57), and higher than 14.5 g/dl (OR: 1.33), and with moderate altitudes (OR: 1.12). The cut-off points for lower risks of stillbirth and preterm births was 10 g/dl, and for SGA 9 g/dl of hemoglobin. Low and high maternal Hb levels and moderate altitude were independent risk factors for adverse perinatal outcomes.

Efficacy and Safety of Risedronate in Osteoporosis Subjects with Comorbid Diabetes, Hypertension, and/or Dyslipidemia: A Post Hoc Analysis of Phase III Trials Conducted in Japan.

PubMed

Inoue, Daisuke; Muraoka, Ryoichi; Okazaki, Ryo; Nishizawa, Yoshiki; Sugimoto, Toshitsugu

2016-02-01

Many osteoporotics have comorbid diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HT), and dyslipidemia (DL). However, whether such comorbidities alter response to anti-osteoporotic treatment is unknown. We did post hoc analyses of combined data from three risedronate Japanese phase III trials to determine whether the presence of DM, HT, or DL affects its efficacy and safety. Data from 885 subjects who received 48-week treatment with risedronate were collected and combined from the three phase III trials. They were divided into two groups by the presence or absence of comorbidities: DM (n = 53) versus non-DM (n = 832); HT (n = 278) versus non-HT (n = 607); and DL (n = 292) versus non-DL (n = 593). Bone mineral density (BMD), urinary type 1 collagen N-telopeptide (uNTX), and serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP) were measured at baseline and sequentially until 48 weeks. BMD or bone markers were not different between any of the two groups. Overall, BMD was increased by 5.52%, and uNTX and BAP were decreased by 35.4 and 33.8%, respectively. Some bone markers were slightly lower in DM and DL subjects, but the responses to risedronate were not significantly different. Statin users had lower uNTX and BAP, but showed no difference in the treatment response. All the other medications had no apparent effect. Adverse event incidence was marginally higher in DL compared with non-DL (Relative risk 1.06; 95% confidence interval 1.01-1.11), but was not related to increase in any specific events. Risedronate shows consistent safety and efficacy in suppressing bone turnover and increasing BMD in osteoporosis patients with comorbid DM, HT, and/or DL.

Lower Glucose Target is Associated with Improved 30-Day Mortality in Cardiac and Cardiothoracic Patients.

PubMed

Hersh, Andrew M; Hirshberg, Eliotte L; Wilson, Emily L; Orme, James F; Morris, Alan H; Lanspa, Michael J

2018-04-26

Practice guidelines recommend against Intensive Insulin Therapy (IIT) in critically ill patients based on trials that had high rates of severe hypoglycemia. Intermountain Healthcare uses a computerized intravenous insulin protocol (eProtocol-insulin) that allows choice of blood glucose (BG) targets (80-110 mg/dl versus 90-140 mg/dl), and has low rates of severe hypoglycemia. We sought to study the effects of BG target on mortality in adult patients in cardiac intensive care units (ICUs) that have very low rates of severe hypoglycemia. Critically ill patients receiving intravenous insulin were treated with either of two BG targets (80-110 mg/dl versus 90-140 mg/dl). We created a propensity score for BG target using factors believed to have influenced clinicians' choice, and then performed a propensity-score-adjusted regression analysis for 30-day mortality. 1809 patients met inclusion criteria. Baseline patient characteristics were similar. Median glucose was lower in the 80-110 mg/dl group (104 mg/dl vs. 122 mg/dl, p<0.001). Severe hypoglycemia occurred at very low rates in both groups (1.16% vs. 0.35%, p=0.051). Unadjusted 30-day mortality was lower in the 80-110 mg/dl group (4.3% vs 9.2%, p<0.001). This remained after propensity-score-adjusted regression (OR 0.65; 95% CI, 0.43-0.98; p=0.04). Tight glucose control can be achieved with low rates of severe hypoglycemia, and is associated with decreased 30-day mortality in a cohort of largely cardiac patients. While such findings should not be used to guide clinical practice at present, the use of tight glucose control should be re-examined using a protocol that has low rates of severe hypoglycemia. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Bedside hemoglobinometry in hemodialysis patients: lessons from point-of-care testing.

PubMed

Agarwal, R; Heinz, T

2001-01-01

The HemoCue B-hemoglobin test system (HemoCue, Inc., Mission Viejo, CA) is a photometric method for rapid bedside determination of hemoglobin (Hb). We compared the performance of HemoCue measured Hb against Coulter STK-S (CSTK) measured Hb in chronic hemodialysis (HD) patients in two different settings. In the first setting, Hemocue analysis was performed by multiple HD technicians (n = 132). In the second setting, a nurse trained in proper specimen handling performed the HemoCue analysis (n = 74). Simultaneous measurement of Hb by the CSTK method was performed. First setting: Hb was 11.1+/-1.66 (SD) g/dl by CSTK and 11.7+/-2.29 g/dl by HemoCue. The HemoCue method consistently overestimated Hb by an average (SD) of 0.63 (1.267) g/dl (95% CI = 0.42 to 0.85). Hb was overestimated in 25.7% and underestimated in 2.3% of the patients by 1 g/dl or more. Thus, the HemoCue system was accurate within 1 g/dl only 72% of the time. Second setting: HemoCue overestimated Hb by an average (SD) of 0.29 (0.52) g/dl (95% CI, 0.17 to 0.41). Only 4% of all patients had errors in estimation of 1 g/dl or more. Thus, HemoCue was accurate in 96% of the patients within 1 g/dl. After reviewing the two protocols, the primary difference in the two studies was the technique used to obtain the specimens. When performed properly, Hb testing using the HemoCue testing system had a high level of agreement with CSTK. Appropriate training in specimen handling, as well as test performance, will increase accuracy and reliability of bedside hemoglobinometry.

Meiotic recombination generates rich diversity in NK cell receptor genes, alleles, and haplotypes

PubMed Central

Norman, Paul J.; Abi-Rached, Laurent; Gendzekhadze, Ketevan; Hammond, John A.; Moesta, Achim K.; Sharma, Deepti; Graef, Thorsten; McQueen, Karina L.; Guethlein, Lisbeth A.; Carrington, Christine V.F.; Chandanayingyong, Dasdayanee; Chang, Yih-Hsin; Crespí, Catalina; Saruhan-Direskeneli, Güher; Hameed, Kamran; Kamkamidze, Giorgi; Koram, Kwadwo A.; Layrisse, Zulay; Matamoros, Nuria; Milà, Joan; Park, Myoung Hee; Pitchappan, Ramasamy M.; Ramdath, D. Dan; Shiau, Ming-Yuh; Stephens, Henry A.F.; Struik, Siske; Tyan, Dolly; Verity, David H.; Vaughan, Robert W.; Davis, Ronald W.; Fraser, Patricia A.; Riley, Eleanor M.; Ronaghi, Mostafa; Parham, Peter

2009-01-01

Natural killer (NK) cells contribute to the essential functions of innate immunity and reproduction. Various genes encode NK cell receptors that recognize the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) Class I molecules expressed by other cells. For primate NK cells, the killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) are a variable and rapidly evolving family of MHC Class I receptors. Studied here is KIR3DL1/S1, which encodes receptors for highly polymorphic human HLA-A and -B and comprises three ancient allelic lineages that have been preserved by balancing selection throughout human evolution. While the 3DS1 lineage of activating receptors has been conserved, the two 3DL1 lineages of inhibitory receptors were diversified through inter-lineage recombination with each other and with 3DS1. Prominent targets for recombination were D0-domain polymorphisms, which modulate enhancer function, and dimorphism at position 283 in the D2 domain, which influences inhibitory function. In African populations, unequal crossing over between the 3DL1 and 3DL2 genes produced a deleted KIR haplotype in which the telomeric “half” was reduced to a single fusion gene with functional properties distinct from its 3DL1 and 3DL2 parents. Conversely, in Eurasian populations, duplication of the KIR3DL1/S1 locus by unequal crossing over has enabled individuals to carry and express alleles of all three KIR3DL1/S1 lineages. These results demonstrate how meiotic recombination combines with an ancient, preserved diversity to create new KIR phenotypes upon which natural selection acts. A consequence of such recombination is to blur the distinction between alleles and loci in the rapidly evolving human KIR gene family. PMID:19411600

A 1-year trial of repeated high-dose intravenous iron isomaltoside 1000 to maintain stable hemoglobin levels in inflammatory bowel disease.

PubMed

Reinisch, Walter; Altorjay, Istvan; Zsigmond, Ferenc; Primas, Christian; Vogelsang, Harald; Novacek, Gottfried; Reinisch, Sieglinde; Thomsen, Lars L

2015-01-01

Iron isomaltoside 1000 (Monofer®) is a high-dose intravenous (IV) iron, which in a recent 8 weeks trial in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) subjects with iron deficiency anemia (IDA) demonstrated good tolerability and efficacy. The present trial is an extension to this trial, which evaluates the need for additional high IV iron doses to maintain a stable hemoglobin (Hb) ≥12.0 g/dl. This was a prospective, open-label, 12 months trial of European IBD subjects willing to participate after completing the lead-in trial. Subjects were allowed re-dosing with 500-2000 mg single doses of iron isomaltoside 1000 infused over ∼15 min at 3 months intervals depending on a predefined algorithm. Outcome measures included Hb, safety parameters and need for additional iron dosing. A total of 39 subjects were enrolled of which 34 subjects required re-dosing with a median cumulative 1-year dose of 1.8 g (mean cumulative dose 2.2 g). The mean (SD) Hb was 12.3 (1.5) g/dl at baseline, 12.8 (1.6) g/dl at 3 months, 12.8 (1.6) g/dl at 6 months, 12.9 (1.4) g/dl at 9 months and 12.9 (1.6) g/dl at 12 months. Seventy-four percent of subjects who had an Hb ≥12.0 g/dl at baseline were able to maintain Hb ≥12.0 g/dl till the end of the trial at 12 months. Nonserious probably related hypersensitivity reactions without significant hypotension were reported at the beginning of the infusion in two subjects, who recovered without sequelae. Repeated treatment of iron deficiency with iron isomaltoside 1000 could avoid episodes of IDA without major safety issues.

Oligopeptides and copeptides of homochiral sequence, via beta-sheets, from mixtures of racemic alpha-amino acids, in a one-pot reaction in water; relevance to biochirogenesis.

PubMed

Illos, Roni A; Bisogno, Fabricio R; Clodic, Gilles; Bolbach, Gerard; Weissbuch, Isabelle; Lahav, Meir

2008-07-09

As part of our studies on the biochirogenesis of peptides of homochiral sequence during early evolution, the formation of oligopeptides composed of 14-24 residues of the same handedness in the polymerization of dl-leucine (Leu), dl-phenylalanine (Phe), and dl-valine (Val) in aqueous solutions, by activation with N, N'-carbonyldiimidazole and then initiation with a primary amine, in a one-pot reaction, was demonstrated by MALDI-TOF MS using deuterium enantio-labeled alpha-amino acids. The formation of long isotactic peptides is rationalized by the following steps occurring in tandem: (i) creation of a library of short diasteroisomeric oligopeptides containing isotactic peptides in excess in comparison to a binomial kinetics, as a result of an asymmetric induction exerted by the N-terminal residue of a given handedness; (ii) precipitation of the less soluble racemic isotactic penta- and hexapeptides in the form of beta-sheets that are delineated by homochiral rims; (iii) regio-enantiospecific chain elongation occurring heterogeneously at the beta-sheets/solution interface. Polymerization of l-Leu with l-isoleucine (Ile) or l-Phe with l- (1) N-Me-histidine yielded mixtures of copeptides containing both residues. In contrast, in the polymerization of the corresponding mixtures of l- + d-alpha-amino acids, the long oligopeptides were composed mainly from oligo- l-Leu and oligo- d-Ile in the first system and oligo- d-Phe in the second. Furthermore, in the polymerization of mixtures of hydrophobic racemic alpha-amino acids dl-Leu, dl-Val, and dl-Phe and with added racemic dl-alanine and dl-tyrosine, copeptides of homochiral sequences are most dominantly represented. Possible routes for a spontaneous "mirror-symmetry breaking" process of the racemic mixtures of homochiral peptides are presented.

TOLERANCE TO AMINO ACID MIXTURES AND CASEIN DIGESTS GIVEN INTRAVENOUSLY

PubMed Central

Madden, S. C.; Woods, R. R.; Shull, F. W.; Remington, J. H.; Whipple, G. H.

1945-01-01

Several synthetic mixtures of natural and racemic crystalline amino acids suitable for the daily nitrogen requirement are tested in dogs for their tolerance upon intravenous injection. Certain mixtures of the ten essential amino acids plus non-essential amino acids exclusive of glutamic acid are accepted without any obvious sign of disturbance even at rates above 10 mg. nitrogen per kilo per minute for quantities greater than 300 mg. per kilo. One such mixture consists in parts per 100 of dl-threonine 7, dl-valine 15, l(-)-leucine 10.9, dl-isoleucine 9.9, l(+)-lysine· HCl·H2O 10.9, dl-tryptophane 3, dl-phenylalanine 9.9, dl-methionine 6, l(+)-histidine·HCl·H2O 5, l(+)-arginine-HCl 5, glycine 9.9, dl-α-alanine 4, dl-serine 2, l(-)-cystine 0.5, and l(-)-tyrosine 1. In addition other well tolerated mixtures included the prolines. When glutamic acid, natural or racemic, is included in similar mixtures vomiting reactions frequently occur at nitrogen rates above 4 mg. per kilo per minute. Vomiting almost always occurs on the first daily injection containing glutamic acid and usually on any subsequent injection containing more than 100 mg. glutamic acid per kilo unless given very slowly. Upon the addition of glycine certain mixtures of the ten essential amino acids show an improved tolerance. Two casein digests tested usually produced vomiting at injection rates above 2 mg. nitrogen per kilo per minute, probably because of their glutamic acid content. No serious reaction has ever occurrred to any mixture of amino acids or casein digest tested. Elimination of minor reactions such as vomiting appears possible and desirable for greater usefulness of these solutions in parenteral feeding. PMID:19871468

Differential Functional Connectivity Alterations of Two Subdivisions within the Right dlPFC in Parkinson's Disease

PubMed Central

Caspers, Julian; Mathys, Christian; Hoffstaedter, Felix; Südmeyer, Martin; Cieslik, Edna C.; Rubbert, Christian; Hartmann, Christian J.; Eickhoff, Claudia R.; Reetz, Kathrin; Grefkes, Christian; Michely, Jochen; Turowski, Bernd; Schnitzler, Alfons; Eickhoff, Simon B.

2017-01-01

Patients suffering from Parkinson's disease (PD) often show impairments in executive function (EF) like decision-making and action control. The right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) has been strongly implicated in EF in healthy subjects and has repeatedly been reported to show alterations related to EF impairment in PD. Recently, two key regions for cognitive action control have been identified within the right dlPFC by co-activation based parcellation. While the posterior region is engaged in rather basal EF like stimulus integration and working memory, the anterior region has a more abstract, supervisory function. To investigate whether these functionally distinct subdivisions of right dlPFC are differentially affected in PD, we analyzed resting-state functional connectivity (FC) in 39 PD patients and 44 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. Patients were examined both after at least 12 h withdrawal of dopaminergic drugs (OFF) and under their regular dopaminergic medication (ON). We found that only the posterior right dlPFC subdivision shows FC alterations in PD, while the anterior part remains unaffected. PD-related decreased FC with posterior right dlPFC was found in the bilateral medial posterior parietal cortex (mPPC) and left dorsal premotor region (PMd) in the OFF state. In the medical ON, FC with left PMd normalized, while decoupling with bilateral mPPC remained. Furthermore, we observed increased FC between posterior right dlPFC and the bilateral dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC) in PD in the ON state. Our findings point to differential disturbances of right dlPFC connectivity in PD, which relate to its hierarchical organization of EF processing by stronger affecting the functionally basal posterior aspect than the hierarchically higher anterior part. PMID:28611616

Soluble NKG2D ligands: prevalence, release, and functional impact.

PubMed

Salih, Helmut Rainer; Holdenrieder, Stefan; Steinle, Alexander

2008-05-01

Natural Killer (NK) cells are capable to recognize and eliminate malignant cells. Anti-tumor responses of NK cells are promoted by the tumor-associated expression of cell stress-inducible ligands of the activating NK receptor NKG2D. Current evidence suggests that established tumors subvert NKG2D-mediated tumor immunosurveillance by releasing NKG2D ligands (NKG2DL). Release of NKG2DL has been observed in a broad variety of human tumor entities and is thought to interfere with NKG2D-mediated tumor immunity in several ways. Further, levels of soluble NKG2DL (sNKG2DL) were also found to be elevated under various non-malignant conditions, although the functional implications remain largely unclear. Here we review and discuss the available data on the prevalence, release, functional impact, and potential clinical value of sNKG2DL.

Influence of an oral contraceptive containing drospirenone on insulin sensitivity of healthy women.

PubMed

Cagnacci, Angelo; Piacenti, Ilaria; Zanin, Renata; Xholli, Anjeza; Tirelli, Alessandra

2014-07-01

Oral contraceptives (OCs) containing androgenic second and third generation progestins decrease insulin sensitivity (SI). In this study we investigated whether an oral contraceptive containing the anti-androgenic progestin drospirenone (DRSP) still alters SI. Lipid modifications were investigated as well. Eleven young healthy women were allocated to receive for 6 months ethinyl-estradiol (EE) 30μg plus DRSP (3mg). SI and glucose utilization independent of insulin (Sg) was investigated by the minimal model method. Lipid modifications were also analyzed. SI did not vary during EE/DRSP (from 3.72±2.62 to 3.29±2.93; p=0.73). Similarly, values of Sg did not vary (from 0.03±0.02 to 0.032±0.014; p=0.87). An increase was observed in HDL cholesterol (9.4±9.8mg/dl; p=0.05) and triglycerides (46.9±75.1mg/dl; p=0.046), with no modification in LDL cholesterol (-4.64±1.704mg/dl; p=0.6). EE/DRSP does not deteriorate SI. These results are reassuring for the long-term use of this association. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of passive transfer in captive greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros).

PubMed

Hammond, Elizabeth E; Fiorello, Christine V

2011-12-01

Failure of passive transfer (FPT) in captive greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) calves can lead to increased morbidity and mortality. In this retrospective study, serum samples from neonatal kudu calves were tested for immunoglobulin using different tests validated for domestic ruminants, including measurement of gamma globulin (GG) measured by protein electrophoresis, total solids (TS) measured by calibrated refractometry, total protein (TP) and globulins measured by colorimetry, gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT), and the zinc sulfate turbidity test (ZSTT). In a logistic regression model, TP, TS, globulins, and the natural log transform of GGT were the only significant parameters associated with FPT. Various historic parameters related to the dam, as well as calf weight, sex, glucose, and packed cell volume, were not significant. Based on the results, FPT in greater kudu is defined as GG of < 0.5 g/dl, a value lower than that in domestic cattle. TS measured by refractometry has an 80% sensitivity and a 100% specificity for FPT in greater kudu. With FPT defined as GG < 0.5 g/dl, kudu calves with a TS < 4.8 g/dl and a negative ZSTT have an increased probability of requiring medical intervention and additional diagnostics may be warranted.

Comparison of the Absorption of Calcium Carbonate and Calcium Citrate after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

PubMed Central

Tondapu, P.; Provost, D.; Adams-Huet, B.; Sims, T.; Chang, C.; Sakhaee, K.

2015-01-01

Introduction Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) restricts food intake. Consequently, patients consume less calcium. In addition, food no longer passes through the duodenum, the main site of calcium absorption. Therefore, calcium absorption is significantly impaired. The goal of this study is to compare two common calcium supplements in gastric bypass patients. Method Nineteen patients were enrolled in a randomized, double-blinded, crossover study comparing the absorption of calcium from calcium carbonate and calcium citrate salts. Serum and urine calcium levels were assessed for peak values (Cmax) and cumulative calcium increment (area under the curve [AUC]). Serum PTH was assessed for minimum values (PTHmin) and cumulative PTH decrement (AUC). Statistical analysis was performed using a repeated analysis of variance model. Results Eighteen subjects completed the study. Calcium citrate resulted in a significantly higher serum Cmax (9.4+0.4 mg/dl vs. 9.2+0.3 mg/dl, p=0.02) and serum AUC (55+2 mg/dl vs. 54+2 mg/dl, p=0.02). Calcium citrate resulted in a significantly lower PTHmin (24+11 pg/ml vs. 30+13 pg/ml, p=0.01) and a higher AUC (−32+51 pg/ml vs. −3+56 pg/ml, p=0.04). There was a non-significant trend for higher urinary AUC in the calcium citrate group (76.13+36.39 mg/6 h vs. 66.04+40.82, p=0.17). Conclusion Calcium citrate has superior bioavailability than calcium carbonate in RYGB patients. PMID:19437082

Dietary protein affects urea transport across rat urothelia.

PubMed

Spector, David A; Deng, Jie; Stewart, Kerry J

2012-10-01

Recent evidence suggests that regulated solute transport occurs across mammalian lower urinary tract epithelia (urothelia). To study the effects of dietary protein on net urothelial transport of urea, creatinine, and water, we used an in vivo rat bladder model designed to mimic physiological conditions. We placed groups of rats on 3-wk diets differing only by protein content (40, 18, 6, and 2%) and instilled 0.3 ml of collected urine in the isolated bladder of anesthetized rats. After 1 h dwell, retrieved urine volumes were unchanged, but mean urea nitrogen (UN) and creatinine concentrations fell 17 and 4%, respectively, indicating transurothelial urea and creatinine reabsorption. The fall in UN (but not creatinine) concentration was greatest in high protein (40%) rats, 584 mg/dl, and progressively less in rats receiving lower protein content: 18% diet, 224 mg/dl; 6% diet, 135 mg/dl; and 2% diet, 87 mg/dl. The quantity of urea reabsorbed was directly related to a urine factor, likely the concentration of urea in the instilled urine. In contrast, the percentage of instilled urea reabsorbed was greater in the two dietary groups receiving the lowest protein (26 and 23%) than in those receiving higher protein (11 and 9%), suggesting the possibility that a bladder/urothelial factor, also affected by dietary protein, may have altered bladder permeability. These findings demonstrate significant regulated urea transport across the urothelium, resulting in alteration of urine excreted by the kidneys, and add to the growing evidence that the lower urinary tract may play an unappreciated role in mammalian solute homeostasis.

Light propagation through black-hole lattices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bentivegna, Eloisa; Korzyński, Mikołaj; Hinder, Ian; Gerlicher, Daniel

2017-03-01

The apparent properties of distant objects encode information about the way the light they emit propagates to an observer, and therefore about the curvature of the underlying spacetime. Measuring the relationship between the redshift z and the luminosity distance DL of a standard candle, for example, yields information on the Universe's matter content. In practice, however, in order to decode this information the observer needs to make an assumption about the functional form of the DL(z) relation; in other words, a cosmological model needs to be assumed. In this work, we use numerical-relativity simulations, equipped with a new ray-tracing module, to numerically obtain this relation for a few black-hole-lattice cosmologies and compare it to the well-known Friedmann-Lema{ȋtre-Robertson-Walker case, as well as to other relevant cosmologies and to the Empty-Beam Approximation. We find that the latter provides the best estimate of the luminosity distance and formulate a simple argument to account for this agreement. We also find that a Friedmann-Lema{ȋtre-Robertson-Walker model can reproduce this observable exactly, as long as a time-dependent cosmological constant is included in the fit. Finally, the dependence of these results on the lattice mass-to-spacing ratio μ is discussed: we discover that, unlike the expansion rate, the DL(z) relation in a black-hole lattice does not tend to that measured in the corresponding continuum spacetime as 0μ → .

The ddY mouse: a model of postprandial hypertriglyceridemia in response to dietary fat

PubMed Central

Yamazaki, Tomomi; Kishimoto, Kyoko; Ezaki, Osamu

2012-01-01

Postprandial hyperlipidemia (lipemia) is a risk factor for atherosclerosis. However, mouse models of postprandial hyperlipidemia have not been reported. Here, we report that ddY mice display marked postprandial hypertriglyceridemia in response to dietary fat. In ddY mice, the fasting serum total triacylglyceride (TG) concentration was 134 mg/dl, which increased to 571 mg/dl after an intragastric safflower oil load (0.4 ml/mouse). In C57BL/6J mice, these concentrations were 57 and 106 mg/dl, respectively. By lipoprotein analysis, ddY mice showed increases in chylomicron- and VLDL-sized TG fractions (remnants and VLDL) after fat load. In C57BL/6J mice, post-heparin plasma LPL activity after fat load was increased 4.8-fold relative to fasting. However, in ddY mice, the increase of LPL activity after fat load was very small (1.2-fold) and not significant. High fat feeding for 10 weeks led to obesity in ddY mice. A difference in LPL amino acid composition between C57BL/6J and ddY mice was detected but was deemed unlikely to cause hypertriglyceridemia because hypertriglyceridemia was not evident in other strains harboring the ddY-type LPL sequence. These findings indicate that postprandial hypertriglyceridemia in ddY mice is induced by decreased LPL activity after fat load and is associated with obesity induced by a high-fat diet. PMID:22735545

Effect of amino acids and vitamins on laccase production by the bird's nest fungus Cyathus bulleri.

PubMed

Dhawan, Shikha; Kuhad, Ramesh Chander

2002-08-01

Various amino acids, their analogues and vitamins have shown stimulatory as well as inhibitory effects on laccase production by Cyathus bulleri. DL-methionine, DL-tryptophan, glycine and DL-valine stimulated laccase production, while L-cysteine monohydrochloride completely inhibited the enzyme production. Among vitamins tested biotin, riboflavin and pyridoxine hydrochloride were found to induce laccase production.

X-ray and conformational investigations of a 4:1 mixture of 6-(N-benzyl-N-tert-butoxycarbonylamino)-2,3,6,7-tetradeoxy-alpha- DL-ery thro- and -beta-DL-threo-hept-2-enopyranos-4-uloses.

PubMed

Krajewski, J W; Urbańczyk-Lipkowska, Z; Gluziński, P; Jurczak, J; Raczko, J; Gołebiowski, A

1990-07-01

The crystals of a 4:1 mixture of 6-(N-benzyl-N-tert-butoxycarbonylamino)-2,3,6,7-tetradeoxy-a-DL-er ythro- and -beta-DL-threo-hept-2-enopyranos-4-ulose were monoclinic, space group P2(1)/c, with cell dimensions: a = 9.490(2), b = 21.516(5), c = 10.279(2) A, beta = 115.31(1) degrees, Z = 4. The ulose ring had a half-chair conformation deformed towards the sofa (envelope) form.

Deep learning based classification of breast tumors with shear-wave elastography.

PubMed

Zhang, Qi; Xiao, Yang; Dai, Wei; Suo, Jingfeng; Wang, Congzhi; Shi, Jun; Zheng, Hairong

2016-12-01

This study aims to build a deep learning (DL) architecture for automated extraction of learned-from-data image features from the shear-wave elastography (SWE), and to evaluate the DL architecture in differentiation between benign and malignant breast tumors. We construct a two-layer DL architecture for SWE feature extraction, comprised of the point-wise gated Boltzmann machine (PGBM) and the restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM). The PGBM contains task-relevant and task-irrelevant hidden units, and the task-relevant units are connected to the RBM. Experimental evaluation was performed with five-fold cross validation on a set of 227 SWE images, 135 of benign tumors and 92 of malignant tumors, from 121 patients. The features learned with our DL architecture were compared with the statistical features quantifying image intensity and texture. Results showed that the DL features achieved better classification performance with an accuracy of 93.4%, a sensitivity of 88.6%, a specificity of 97.1%, and an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.947. The DL-based method integrates feature learning with feature selection on SWE. It may be potentially used in clinical computer-aided diagnosis of breast cancer. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Black sexuality, social construction, and research targeting 'The Down Low' ('The DL').

PubMed

Ford, Chandra L; Whetten, Kathryn D; Hall, Susan A; Kaufman, Jay S; Thrasher, Angela D

2007-03-01

The purpose of this commentary is to explain how social constructions of black sexuality are relevant to research targeting black sexual behavior and the ostensibly new and race-specific phenomenon known as "the Down Low" (the DL). The term "the DL" is widely used to refer to black men publicly presenting as heterosexual while secretly having sex with other men and presumably spreading human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) to unsuspecting women. We briefly review lay and public health literature from 1998 to 2004 about the DL, describe existing social constructions of black sexuality, discuss two implications for epidemiologic research, and offer recommendations to guide future research. The lifestyle referenced by the term the DL is neither new nor limited to blacks, and sufficient data linking it to HIV/AIDS disparities currently are lacking. Common perceptions about the DL reflect social constructions of black sexuality as generally excessive, deviant, diseased, and predatory. Research targeting black sexual behavior that ignores these constructions may unwittingly reinforce them. Unaddressed social constructions of black sexuality have implications for epidemiologic research targeting black sexual behavior. Explicit examination of these concerns is necessary to eliminate fundamental causes of health disparities.

Origins of hydration differences in homochiral and racemic crystals of aspartic acid.

PubMed

Juliano, Thomas R; Korter, Timothy M

2015-02-26

The propensity for crystalline hydrates of organic molecules to form is related to the strength of the interactions between molecules, including the chiral composition of the molecular solids. Specifically, homochiral versus racemic crystalline samples can exhibit distinct differences in their ability to form energetically stable hydrates. The focus of the current study is a comparison of the crystal structures and intermolecular forces found in solid-state L-aspartic acid, DL-aspartic acid, and L-aspartic acid monohydrate. The absence of experimental evidence for the DL-aspartic acid monohydrate is considered here in terms of the enhanced thermodynamic stability of the DL-aspartic acid anhydrate crystal as compared to the L-aspartic acid anhydrate as revealed through solid-state density functional theory calculations and terahertz spectroscopic measurements. The results indicate that anhydrous DL-aspartic acid is the more stable solid, not due to intermolecular forces alone but also due to the improved conformations of the molecules within the racemic solid. Hemihydrated and monohydrated forms of DL-aspartic acid have been computationally evaluated, and in each case, the hydrates produce destabilized aspartic acid conformations that prevent DL-aspartic acid hydrate formation from occurring.

Serum protein electrophoretic pattern in one-humped camels (Camelus dromedarius) in Tripoli, Libya.

PubMed

Abdoslam, Omran; Bayt-Almal, Mahmoud; Almghrbe, Abdullah; Algriany, Omran

2018-01-01

The aim of this study was to characterize serum protein capillary electrophoretic pattern in apparently healthy adult male (age: 3-7 years) dromedary camels and also evaluate total protein and albumin levels using automated analyzer. Blood samples were taken from 20 camels. 5ml of blood was collected from the jugular vein and serum was separated from samples by centrifugation. Capillary electrophoresis of serum proteins identified six protein fractions in adult camels, including albumin, alpha1, alpha2, beta1, beta2 and gamma globulins, serum levels of these parameters were 3.9±0.04 g/dl, 0.16±0.01 g/dl, 0.39±0.03 g/dl, 0.515±0.03 g/dl, 0.205±0.01 g/dl and 0.61±0.04 g/dl, and 65.42±0.62 g/l, respectively. The total protein concentration was 65.42±0.62 g/L, while, the albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio was 2.4±0.14. The present study indicates six peaks with minicapillary electrophoresis and the results obtained were compared and interpreted in the light of finding reported by other investigators in camels.

Caudal migration and proliferation of renal progenitors regulates early nephron segment size in zebrafish.

PubMed

Naylor, Richard W; Dodd, Rachel C; Davidson, Alan J

2016-10-19

The nephron is the functional unit of the kidney and is divided into distinct proximal and distal segments. The factors determining nephron segment size are not fully understood. In zebrafish, the embryonic kidney has long been thought to differentiate in situ into two proximal tubule segments and two distal tubule segments (distal early; DE, and distal late; DL) with little involvement of cell movement. Here, we overturn this notion by performing lineage-labelling experiments that reveal extensive caudal movement of the proximal and DE segments and a concomitant compaction of the DL segment as it fuses with the cloaca. Laser-mediated severing of the tubule, such that the DE and DL are disconnected or that the DL and cloaca do not fuse, results in a reduction in tubule cell proliferation and significantly shortens the DE segment while the caudal movement of the DL is unaffected. These results suggest that the DL mechanically pulls the more proximal segments, thereby driving both their caudal extension and their proliferation. Together, these data provide new insights into early nephron morphogenesis and demonstrate the importance of cell movement and proliferation in determining initial nephron segment size.

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

Pangaro, L.; Burman, K.D.; Wartofsky, L.

The present report describes a RIA for 3,5-diiodothyronine (3,5T/sub 2/) which uses inner ring-labeled 3,5-(/sup 125/I)T/sub 2/ as the ligand and has a lower limit of detectability of 0.5 ng/dl. Cross-reaction was 0.14% with T/sub 3/, less than 0.001% with T/sub 4/, 1.2% with 3,3',5-triiodothyroacetic acid, and 6.1% with 3,5-diiodothyroacetic acid. No cross-reaction was detectable for iodothyronines within their physiological ranges. Intraassay variation ranged from 2.2 to 7.8%, and interassay variation ranged from 12.7 to 14%. The mean (+-SE) serum 3.5T/sub 2/ concentration in 70 normal subjects was 4.3 +- 0.2 ng/dl. The mean (+-SE) 3.5T/sub 2/ in 14 hyperthyroidmore » patients was increased to 18.4 +- 2.3 ng/dl (P < 0.001), and all but 1 patient had an elevated level. In 10 hypothyroid patients the mean (+-SE) 3,5T/sub 2/ level was decreased to 1.4 +- 0.3 ng/dl (P < 0.001). In 4 patients, levels overlapped with the normal range. In 4 hypothyroid subjects treated with L-T/sub 1/, 3,5T/sub 2/ levels were normal, suggesting that the majority of 3,5T/sub 2/ originates from extrathyroidal conversion from T/sub 3/. Studies in fasting obese subjects demonstrated that serum 3,5T/sub 2/ (mean +- SE) levels fell from 3.4 +- 0.3 to 2.5 +- 0.7 ng/dl during fasting. This fall was significant (P < 0.001) and in parallel with the fall in T/sub 3/ levels of 182 +- 20 to 126 +- 12 ng/dl. In fasting subjects given 100 ..mu..g oral L-T/sub 3//day T/sub 3/ levels rose from 138 +- 11 to 362 +- 26 ng/dl. 3,5T/sub 2/ levels (corrected for cross-reaction and for contamination of oral T/sub 3/ with 3,5T/sub 2/) rose from 2.2 +- 0.7 to 6.4 +- 1.0 ng/dl. In fasting subjects given 25 ..mu..g oral L-T/sub 3//day, T/sub 3/ levels fell from 165 +- 5.1 to 139 +- 6.9 ng/dl. Corrected 3,5T/sub 2/ levels changed from 3.7 +- 0.4 to 2.5 +- 0.3 ng/dl. Neither change were significant.« less

Clinical experience with ferric carboxymaltose in the treatment of cancer- and chemotherapy-associated anaemia

PubMed Central

Steinmetz, T.; Tschechne, B.; Harlin, O.; Klement, B.; Franzem, M.; Wamhoff, J.; Tesch, H.; Rohrberg, R.; Marschner, N.

2013-01-01

Background Intravenous (i.v.) iron can improve anaemia of chronic disease and response to erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs), but data on its use in practice and without ESAs are limited. This study evaluated effectiveness and tolerability of ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) in routine treatment of anaemic cancer patients. Patients and methods Of 639 patients enrolled in 68 haematology/oncology practices in Germany, 619 received FCM at the oncologist's discretion, 420 had eligible baseline haemoglobin (Hb) measurements, and 364 at least one follow-up Hb measurement. Data of transfused patients were censored from analysis before transfusion. Results The median total iron dose was 1000 mg per patient (interquartile range 600–1500 mg). The median Hb increase was comparable in patients receiving FCM alone (1.4 g/dl [0.2–2.3 g/dl; N = 233]) or FCM + ESA (1.6 g/dl [0.7–2.4 g/dl; N = 46]). Patients with baseline Hb up to 11.0 g/dl and serum ferritin up to 500 ng/ml benefited from FCM treatment (stable Hb ≥11.0 g/dl). Also patients with ferritin >500 ng/ml but low transferrin saturation benefited from FCM treatment. FCM was well tolerated, 2.3% of patients reported putative drug-related adverse events. Conclusions The substantial Hb increase and stabilisation at 11–12 g/dl in FCM-treated patients suggest a role for i.v. iron alone in anaemia correction in cancer patients. PMID:23071262

Occupational lead exposure aboard a tall ship.

PubMed

Landrigan, P J; Straub, W E

1985-01-01

To evaluate occupational exposures to lead in shipfitters cutting and riveting lead-painted iron plates aboard an iron-hulled sailing vessel, we conducted an environmental and medical survey. Lead exposures in seven personal (breathing zone) air samples ranged from 108 to 500 micrograms/m3 (mean 257 micrograms/m3); all were above the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standard of 50 micrograms/m3. In two short-term air samples obtained while exhaust ventilation was temporarily disconnected, mean lead exposure rose to 547 micrograms/m3. Blood lead levels in ten shipfitters ranged from 25 to 53 micrograms/dl (mean, 37.8 micrograms/dl); levels in three of these workers exceeded the upper normal limit of 40 micrograms/dl. Blood lead levels in shipfitters were significantly higher than in other shipyard workers (mean 10.0 micrograms/dl; p less than 0.001). Smoking shipfitters (mean, 47 micrograms/dl) had significantly higher lead levels than nonsmokers (mean, 32 micrograms/dl; p = 0.03). Lead levels in shipfitters who wore respirators were not lower than in those who wore no protective gear (p = 0.68). Four shipfitters had erythrocyte protoporphyrin (EP) concentrations above the adult upper normal limit of 50 micrograms/dl. A close correlation was found between blood lead and EP levels (r = 0.70). Prevalence of lead-related symptoms was no higher in shipfitters than in other workers. No cases of symptomatic lead poisoning were noted. These data indicate that serious occupational exposure to lead can occur in a relatively small boatyard.

Predicting planning performance from structural connectivity between left and right mid-dorsolateral prefrontal cortex: moderating effects of age during postadolescence and midadulthood.

PubMed

Kaller, Christoph P; Reisert, Marco; Katzev, Michael; Umarova, Roza; Mader, Irina; Hennig, Jürgen; Weiller, Cornelius; Köstering, Lena

2015-04-01

Complex cognitive abilities such as planning are known to critically rely on activity of bilateral mid-dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (mid-dlPFC). However, the functional relevance of the structural connectivity between left and right mid-dlPFC is yet unknown. Here, we applied global tractography to derive streamline counts as estimates of the structural connectivity between mid-dlPFC homologs and related it to planning performance in the Tower of London task across early to midadulthood, assuming a moderating effect of age. Multiple regression analyses with interaction effects revealed that streamline counts between left and right mid-dlPFC were negatively associated with planning performance specifically in early postadolescence. From the fourth life decade on, there was a trend for a reversed, positive association. These differential findings were corroborated by converging results from fractional anisotropy and white-matter density estimates in the genu of the corpus callosum where fibers connecting mid-dlPFC homologs traversed. Moreover, the results for streamline counts were regionally specific, marking the strength of mid-dlPFC connectivity as critical in predicting interindividual differences in planning performance across different stages of adulthood. Taken together, present findings provide first evidence for nonadditive effects of age on the relation between complex cognitive abilities and the structural connectivity of mid-dlPFC homologs. © The Author 2013. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Species-specific recognition of the carrier insect by dauer larvae of the nematode Caenorhabditis japonica.

PubMed

Okumura, Etsuko; Tanaka, Ryusei; Yoshiga, Toyoshi

2013-02-15

Host recognition is crucial during the phoretic stage of nematodes because it facilitates their association with hosts. However, limited information is available on the direct cues used for host recognition and host specificity in nematodes. Caenorhabditis japonica forms an intimate association with the burrower bug Parastrachia japonensis. Caenorhabditis japonica dauer larvae (DL), the phoretic stage of the nematode, are mainly found on adult P. japonensis females but no other species. To understand the mechanisms of species-specific and female carrier-biased ectophoresy in C. japonica, we investigated whether C. japonica DL could recognize their hosts using nematode loading and chemoattraction experiments. During the loading experiments, up to 300 C. japonica DL embarked on male and female P. japonensis, whereas none or very few utilized the other shield bugs Erthesina fullo and Macroscytus japonensis or the terrestrial isopod Armadillidium vulgare. In the chemoattraction experiments, hexane extracts containing the body surface components of nymphs and both adult P. japonensis sexes attracted C. japonica DL, whereas those of other shield bugs did not. Parastrachia japonensis extracts also arrested the dispersal of C. japonica DL released at a site where hexane extracts were spotted on an agar plate; i.e. >50% of DL remained at the site even 60 min after nematode inoculation whereas M. japonensis extracts or hexane alone did not have the same effect. These results suggest that C. japonica DL recognize their host species using direct chemical attractants from their specific host to maintain their association.

Random Plasma Glucose Values Measured in Community Dental Practices: Findings from The Dental Practice-Based Research Network

PubMed Central

Barasch, Andrei; Gilbert, Gregg H; Spurlock, Noel; Funkhouser, Ellen; Persson, Lise-Lotte; Safford, Monika M

2012-01-01

Objectives To examine feasibility of testing and frequency of abnormal plasma glucose among dental patients in The Dental Practice-Based Research Network. Methods Eligible dental patients were >19 years old and had at least one American Diabetes Association-defined risk factor for diabetes mellitus, or an existing diagnosis of diabetes or pre-diabetes. Random (fasting not required) plasma glucose was measured in standardized fashion using a commercial glucometer. Readings <70 mg/dl or >300 mg/dl triggered re-testing. Patients with glucose >126 mg/dl were referred for medical follow up. Results Of 498 subjects in 28 dental practices, 491 (98%) consented and 418 (85.1%) qualified for testing. Fifty-one patients (12.2%) had diabetes; 24 (5.7%) had pre-diabetes. Glucose ranged from 50 – 465 mg/dl. 129 subjects (31%) had readings outside the normal range; of these, 28 (6.7%) had readings <80 mg/dl and 101 (24.2%) had readings >126 mg/dl; in 9 patients (7 with diabetes), glucose was >200 mg/dl. Conclusions A significant proportion of patients tested had abnormal blood glucose. Routine glucose testing in dental practice of populations at risk or diagnosed with diabetes may be beneficial and community dental practices hold promise as settings for diabetes and pre-diabetes screening and monitoring. Clinical Relevance Results suggest that implementation of glucose measurement in dental practice may provide important clinical and health information for both patients and practitioners. PMID:22903529

Evaluation of cell proliferation in malignant and potentially malignant oral lesions

PubMed Central

Madan, Mani; Chandra, Shaleen; Raj, Vineet; Madan, Rohit

2015-01-01

Aims: To evaluate the cell proliferation rate by the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and argyrophilic nucleolar organizing region (AgNOR) counts and to assess its usefulness as a marker for malignant potential in oral epithelial lesions. Materials and Methods: The study group included 30 cases of leukoplakia, 15 nondysplastic (NDL), 15 dysplastic (DL), 15 cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and 5 cases of normal oral mucosa. Formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissues were subjected to immunohistochemical staining for PCNA and AgNOR technique. The PCNA labeling index (LI) and the AgNOR dots were evaluated for the entire sample. Statistical Analysis Used: ANOVA, Tukey honestly significant difference, Pearson's correlation. Results: In this study, the AgNOR count of OSCC was lower than the DL lesions moreover the AgNOR counts were found to be higher in normal mucosa as compared to the DL and the NDL epithelium. The study results also showed that the mean AgNOR count failed to distinguish between DL and NDL lesions. Overall we observed increased PCNA expression from normal epithelium to NDL to DL lesion. Conclusions: Based on the findings of the present study on oral epithelial precancerous and cancerous lesions we conclude that mean AgNOR count alone cannot be a valuable parameter to distinguish between the normal, NDL, DL epithelium and OSCC but, on the other hand, we found out that PCNA can be a useful biomarker for delineating normal epithelium from DL epithelium and OSCC. PMID:26980956

Evaluation of cell proliferation in malignant and potentially malignant oral lesions.

PubMed

Madan, Mani; Chandra, Shaleen; Raj, Vineet; Madan, Rohit

2015-01-01

To evaluate the cell proliferation rate by the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and argyrophilic nucleolar organizing region (AgNOR) counts and to assess its usefulness as a marker for malignant potential in oral epithelial lesions. The study group included 30 cases of leukoplakia, 15 nondysplastic (NDL), 15 dysplastic (DL), 15 cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and 5 cases of normal oral mucosa. Formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissues were subjected to immunohistochemical staining for PCNA and AgNOR technique. The PCNA labeling index (LI) and the AgNOR dots were evaluated for the entire sample. ANOVA, Tukey honestly significant difference, Pearson's correlation. In this study, the AgNOR count of OSCC was lower than the DL lesions moreover the AgNOR counts were found to be higher in normal mucosa as compared to the DL and the NDL epithelium. The study results also showed that the mean AgNOR count failed to distinguish between DL and NDL lesions. Overall we observed increased PCNA expression from normal epithelium to NDL to DL lesion. Based on the findings of the present study on oral epithelial precancerous and cancerous lesions we conclude that mean AgNOR count alone cannot be a valuable parameter to distinguish between the normal, NDL, DL epithelium and OSCC but, on the other hand, we found out that PCNA can be a useful biomarker for delineating normal epithelium from DL epithelium and OSCC.

Comparative Ethanol-Induced Potentiation of Stimulatory Responses to Dexmethylphenidate Versus Methylphenidate.

PubMed

Patrick, Kennerly S; Straughn, Arthur B; Reeves, Owen T; Bernstein, Hilary; Malcolm, Robert

2015-08-01

The potentiation of positive subjective responses to immediate-release dexmethylphenidate (d-MPH) or dl-methylphenidate (dl-MPH) by ethanol was investigated over the time course of maximal drug exposure after a single dose. In a 4-way, randomized, crossover study design, 12 men and 12 women normal volunteers received d-MPH (0.15 mg/kg) or dl-MPH (0.3 mg/kg) with or without ethanol (0.6 g/kg). Serial visual analog scales were used as surrogates for drug abuse liability ("high," "good," "like," "stimulated," and "any drug effect"). Combining pure d-MPH with ethanol significantly (P < 0.005) increased the area under the effect curves (AUC(0-5.25h)) of all 5 subscales. The dl-MPH-ethanol combination significantly (P < 0.05) increased these AUCs with the exception of like (P = 0.08). Effects of the pure d-MPH-ethanol combination exhibited delayed potentiation relative to dl-MPH-ethanol. A pharmacokinetic interaction between the l-isomer of dl-MPH and ethanol has previously been shown to increase early exposure to d-MPH. Administration of the pure isomer d-MPH precludes this absorption phase pharmacokinetic interaction with ethanol. This notwithstanding, the pure d-MPH-ethanol combination resulted in comparable, if not greater, cumulative stimulant potentiation than the dl-MPH-ethanol combination. These findings provide evidence of a pharmacodynamic component to d-MPH-ethanol synergistic interactions and carry implications for the rational drug individualization in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Vibration exercise as a warm-up modality for deadlift power output.

PubMed

Cochrane, Darryl J; Coley, Karl W; Pritchard, Hayden J; Barnes, Matthew J

2015-04-01

Vibration exercise (VbX) has gained popularity as a warm-up modality to enhance performance in golf, baseball, and sprint cycling, but little is known about the efficacy of using VbX as a warm-up before resistance exercise, such as deadlifting. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of a deadlift (DL)-specific warm-up, VbX warm-up, and Control on DL power output (PO). The DL warm-up (DL-WU) included 10, 8, and 5 repetitions performed at 30, 40, and 50% 1-repetition maximum (1RM), respectively, where the number of repetitions was matched by body-weight squats performed with vibration and without vibration (Control). The warm-up conditions were randomized and performed at least 2 days apart. Peak power (PP), mean power, rate of force development (RFD), and electromyography (EMG) were measured during the concentric phase of 2 consecutive DLs (75% 1RM) at 30 seconds and 2:30 minutes after the warm-up conditions. There was no significant (p > 0.05) main effect or interaction effect between the DL-WU, VbX warm-up, and Control for PP, mean power, RFD, and EMG. Vibration exercise warm-up did not exhibit an ergogenic effect to potentiate muscle activity more than the specific DL-WU and Control. Therefore, DL PO is affected to a similar extent, irrespective of the type of stimuli, when the warm-up is not focused on raising muscle temperature.

Modified-release hydrocortisone to provide circadian cortisol profiles.

PubMed

Debono, Miguel; Ghobadi, Cyrus; Rostami-Hodjegan, Amin; Huatan, Hiep; Campbell, Michael J; Newell-Price, John; Darzy, Ken; Merke, Deborah P; Arlt, Wiebke; Ross, Richard J

2009-05-01

Cortisol has a distinct circadian rhythm regulated by the brain's central pacemaker. Loss of this rhythm is associated with metabolic abnormalities, fatigue, and poor quality of life. Conventional glucocorticoid replacement cannot replicate this rhythm. Our objectives were to define key variables of physiological cortisol rhythm, and by pharmacokinetic modeling test whether modified-release hydrocortisone (MR-HC) can provide circadian cortisol profiles. The study was performed at a Clinical Research Facility. Using data from a cross-sectional study in healthy reference subjects (n = 33), we defined parameters for the cortisol rhythm. We then tested MR-HC against immediate-release hydrocortisone in healthy volunteers (n = 28) in an open-label, randomized, single-dose, cross-over study. We compared profiles with physiological cortisol levels, and modeled an optimal treatment regimen. The key variables in the physiological cortisol profile included: peak 15.5 microg/dl (95% reference range 11.7-20.6), acrophase 0832 h (95% confidence interval 0759-0905), nadir less than 2 microg/dl (95% reference range 1.5-2.5), time of nadir 0018 h (95% confidence interval 2339-0058), and quiescent phase (below the mesor) 1943-0531 h. MR-HC 15 mg demonstrated delayed and sustained release with a mean (sem) maximum observed concentration of 16.6 (1.4) microg/dl at 7.41 (0.57) h after drug. Bioavailability of MR-HC 5, 10, and 15 mg was 100, 79, and 86% that of immediate-release hydrocortisone. Modeling suggested that MR-HC 15-20 mg at 2300 h and 10 mg at 0700 h could reproduce physiological cortisol levels. By defining circadian rhythms and using modern formulation technology, it is possible to allow a more physiological circadian replacement of cortisol.

Testing a dual-systems model of adolescent brain development using resting-state connectivity analyses.

PubMed

van Duijvenvoorde, A C K; Achterberg, M; Braams, B R; Peters, S; Crone, E A

2016-01-01

The current study aimed to test a dual-systems model of adolescent brain development by studying changes in intrinsic functional connectivity within and across networks typically associated with cognitive-control and affective-motivational processes. To this end, resting-state and task-related fMRI data were collected of 269 participants (ages 8-25). Resting-state analyses focused on seeds derived from task-related neural activation in the same participants: the dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) from a cognitive rule-learning paradigm and the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) from a reward-paradigm. Whole-brain seed-based resting-state analyses showed an age-related increase in dlPFC connectivity with the caudate and thalamus, and an age-related decrease in connectivity with the (pre)motor cortex. nAcc connectivity showed a strengthening of connectivity with the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and subcortical structures such as the hippocampus, and a specific age-related decrease in connectivity with the ventral medial PFC (vmPFC). Behavioral measures from both functional paradigms correlated with resting-state connectivity strength with their respective seed. That is, age-related change in learning performance was mediated by connectivity between the dlPFC and thalamus, and age-related change in winning pleasure was mediated by connectivity between the nAcc and vmPFC. These patterns indicate (i) strengthening of connectivity between regions that support control and learning, (ii) more independent functioning of regions that support motor and control networks, and (iii) more independent functioning of regions that support motivation and valuation networks with age. These results are interpreted vis-à-vis a dual-systems model of adolescent brain development. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Including operational data in QMRA model: development and impact of model inputs.

PubMed

Jaidi, Kenza; Barbeau, Benoit; Carrière, Annie; Desjardins, Raymond; Prévost, Michèle

2009-03-01

A Monte Carlo model, based on the Quantitative Microbial Risk Analysis approach (QMRA), has been developed to assess the relative risks of infection associated with the presence of Cryptosporidium and Giardia in drinking water. The impact of various approaches for modelling the initial parameters of the model on the final risk assessments is evaluated. The Monte Carlo simulations that we performed showed that the occurrence of parasites in raw water was best described by a mixed distribution: log-Normal for concentrations > detection limit (DL), and a uniform distribution for concentrations < DL. The selection of process performance distributions for modelling the performance of treatment (filtration and ozonation) influences the estimated risks significantly. The mean annual risks for conventional treatment are: 1.97E-03 (removal credit adjusted by log parasite = log spores), 1.58E-05 (log parasite = 1.7 x log spores) or 9.33E-03 (regulatory credits based on the turbidity measurement in filtered water). Using full scale validated SCADA data, the simplified calculation of CT performed at the plant was shown to largely underestimate the risk relative to a more detailed CT calculation, which takes into consideration the downtime and system failure events identified at the plant (1.46E-03 vs. 3.93E-02 for the mean risk).

The Florida Prostate Cancer Research Training Opportunities for Outstanding Leaders (ReTOOL (registered trademark)) Program: Creating Opportunities for Minority HBCU Students

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-01

850-599-3731 Email: ’z’edjna@roo uf! edu &nail: ,,..._IJ:IiUIJ5; filll!I~IDilil g;jtQl U:: Dii ::£: te:iln’K181fimu i::dl1 Program Hanager Shannon...requested on this card is confidential and for emergency use only. In the event of a medical emergency, this information will be used by authorized...released to emergency personnel. I also agree that any of my emergency contacts listed on this card may be notified in an emergency, as needed

Fasting glucose and cardiovascular risk factors in an urban population.

PubMed

Gupta, R; Sarna, M; Thanvi, Jyoti; Sharma, Vibha; Gupta, V P

2007-10-01

To test the hypothesis that blood glucose levels in the range of normoglycemia are associated with increased cardiovascular risk we performed an epidemiological study in an urban population. Randomly selected adults > or = 20 years were studied using stratified sampling. Target sample was 1800 (men 960, women 840) of which 1123 subjects participated. Blood samples were available in 1091 subjects (60.6%, men 532, women 559). Measurement of anthropometric variables, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose and lipids was performed. Cardiovascular risk factors were determined using US Adult Treatment Panel-3 guidelines. Pearson's correlation coefficients (r) of fasting glucose with various risk factors were determined. Fasting glucose levels were classified into various groups as < 75 mg/dl, 75-89 mg/dl, 90-109 mg/dl, 110-125 mg/dl and > 126 mg/dl or known diabetes. Prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors was determined in each group. There was a significant positive correlation of fasting glucose in men and women with body mass index (r = 0.20, 0.12), waist-hip ratio (0.17, 0.09), systolic blood pressure (0.07, 0.22), total cholesterol (0.21, 0.15) and triglycerides (0.21, 0.25). Prevalence (%) of cardiovascular risk factors in men and women was smoking/tobacco use in 37.6 and 11.6, hypertension in 37.0 and 37.6, overweight and obesity in 37.8 and 50.3, truncal obesity in 57.3 and 68.0, high cholesterol > or = 200 mg/dl in 37.4 and 45.8, high triglycerides > or = 150 mg/dl in 32.3 and 28.6 and metabolic syndrome in 22.9 and 31.6 percent. In various groups of fasting glucose there was an increasing trend in prevalence of overweight/obesity, hypertension, hypercholesterolaemia, hypertriglyceridaemia, and metabolic syndrome (Mantel-Haenzel X2 for trend, p < 0.05) and fasting glucose < 75 mg/dl was associated with the lowest prevalence of these risk factors. There is a continuous relationship of fasting glucose levels with many cardiovascular risk factors and level < 75 mg/dl is associated with the lowest prevalence.

Effect of Threat on Right dlPFC Activity during Behavioral Pattern Separation

PubMed Central

Hsiung, Abigail; Ernst, Monique; Grillon, Christian

2017-01-01

It has long been established that individuals with anxiety disorders tend to overgeneralize attributes of fearful stimuli to nonfearful stimuli, but there is little mechanistic understanding of the neural system that supports overgeneralization. To address this gap in our knowledge, this study examined effect of experimentally induced anxiety in humans on generalization using the behavioral pattern separation (BPS) paradigm. Healthy subjects of both sexes encoded and retrieved novel objects during periods of safety and threat of unpredictable shocks while we recorded brain activity with fMRI. During retrieval, subjects were instructed to differentiate among new, old, and altered images. We hypothesized that the hippocampus and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) would play a key role in the effect of anxiety on BPS. The dlPFC, but not the hippocampus, showed increased activity for altered images compared with old images when retrieval occurred during periods of threat compared with safety. In addition, accuracy for altered items retrieved during threat was correlated with dlPFC activity. Together, these results suggest that overgeneralization in anxiety patients may be mediated by an inability to recruit the dlPFC, which mediates the cognitive control needed to overcome anxiety and differentiate between old and altered items during periods of threat. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Anxiety and posttraumatic stress disorder patients generalize fear to nonfearful fear stimuli, making it difficult to regulate anxiety. Understanding how anxiety affects generalization is key to understanding the overgeneralization experienced by these patients. We examined this relationship in healthy subjects by studying how threat of shock affects neural responses to previously encountered stimuli. Although previous studies point to hippocampal involvement, we found that threat affected activity in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC), rather than the hippocampus, when subjects encountered slightly altered versions of the previously encountered items. Importantly, this dlPFC activity predicted performance for these items. Together, these results suggest that the dlPFC is important for discrimination during elevated anxiety and that overgeneralization may reflect a deficit in dlPFC-mediated cognitive control. PMID:28842415

Ubiquitylation of an internalized NK cell receptor by Triad3A disrupts sustained NF-κB signaling1

PubMed Central

Shahjahan Miah, S. M.; Purdy, Amanda K.; Rodin, Nicholas B.; MacFarlane, Alexander W.; Oshinsky, Jennifer; Alvarez-Arias, Diana A.; Campbell, Kerry S.

2011-01-01

KIR2DL4 (2DL4, CD158d) is a unique killer cell Ig-like receptor (KIR) expressed on human NK cells, which stimulates cytokine production, but mechanisms regulating its expression and function are poorly understood. By yeast two-hybrid screening, we identified the E3 ubiquitin ligase, Triad3A, as an interaction partner for the 2DL4 cytoplasmic domain. The protein interaction was confirmed in vivo, and Triad3A expression induced polyubiquitylation and degradation of 2DL4. Overexpression of Triad3A selectively abrogated cytokine-producing function of 2DL4, while Triad3A shRNA reversed ubiquitylation and restored cytokine production. Expression of Triad3A in an NK cell line did not affect receptor surface expression, internalization, or early signaling, but significantly reduced receptor turnover and suppressed sustained NF-κB activation. 2DL4 endocytosis was found to be vital to stimulate cytokine production, and Triad3A expression diminished localization of internalized receptor in early endosomes. Our results reveal a critical role for endocytosed 2DL4 receptor to generate sustained NF-κB signaling and drive cytokine production. We conclude that Triad3A is a key negative regulator of sustained 2DL4-mediated NF-κB signaling from internalized 2DL4, which functions by promoting ubiquitylation and degradation of endocytosed receptor from early endosomes. “This is an author-produced version of a manuscript accepted for publication in The Journal of Immunology (The JI). The American Association of Immunologists, Inc. (AAI), publisher of The JI, holds the copyright to this manuscript. This version of the manuscript has not yet been copyedited or subjected to editorial proofreading by The JI; hence, it may differ from the final version published in The JI (online and in print). AAI (The JI) is not liable for errors or omissions in this author-produced version of the manuscript or in any version derived from it by the U.S. National Institutes of Health or any other third party. The final, citable version of record can be found at www.jimmunol.org.” PMID:21270397

Comparison of the force applied on oral structures during intubation attempts by novice physicians between the Macintosh direct laryngoscope, Airway Scope and C-MAC PM: a high-fidelity simulator-based study.

PubMed

Nakanishi, Taizo; Shiga, Takashi; Homma, Yosuke; Koyama, Yasuaki; Goto, Tadahiro

2016-05-23

We examined whether the use of Airway Scope (AWS) and C-MAC PM (C-MAC) decreased the force applied on oral structures during intubation attempts as compared with the force applied with the use of Macintosh direct laryngoscope (DL). Prospective cross-over study. A total of 35 novice physicians participated. We used 6 simulation scenarios based on the difficulty of intubation and intubation devices. Our primary outcome measures were the maximum force applied on the maxillary incisors and tongue during intubation attempts, measured by a high-fidelity simulator. The maximum force applied on maxillary incisors was higher with the use of the C-MAC than with the DL and AWS in the normal airway scenario (DL, 26 Newton (N); AWS, 18 N; C-MAC, 52 N; p<0.01) and the difficult airway scenario (DL, 42 N; AWS, 24 N; C-MAC, 68 N; p<0.01). In contrast, the maximum force applied on the tongue was higher with the use of the DL than with the AWS and C-MAC in both airway scenarios (DL, 16 N; AWS, 1 N; C-MAC, 7 N; p<0.01 in the normal airway scenario; DL, 12 N; AWS, 4 N; C-MAC, 7 N; p<0.01 in the difficult airway scenario). The use of C-MAC, compared with the DL and AWS, was associated with the higher maximum force applied on maxillary incisors during intubation attempts. In contrast, the use of video laryngoscopes was associated with the lower force applied on the tongue in both airway scenarios, compared with the DL. Our study was a simulation-based study, and further research on living patients would be warranted. 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/

Differential Association of Gene Content Polymorphisms of Killer Cell Immunoglobulin-Like Receptors with Placental Malaria in HIV− and HIV+ Mothers

PubMed Central

Hightower, Allen; van Eijk, Anne Maria; Ayisi, John; Otieno, Juliana; Lal, Renu B.; Steketee, Richard; Nahlen, Bernard; ter Kuile, Feiko O.; Slutsker, Laurence; Shi, Ya Ping

2012-01-01

Pregnant women have abundant natural killer (NK) cells in their placenta, and NK cell function is regulated by polymorphisms of killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs). Previous studies report different roles of NK cells in the immune responses to placental malaria (PM) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) infections. Given these references, the aim of this study was to determine the association between KIR gene content polymorphism and PM infection in pregnant women of known HIV-1 status. Sixteen genes in the KIR family were analyzed in 688 pregnant Kenyan women. Gene content polymorphisms were assessed in relation to PM in HIV-1 negative and HIV-1 positive women, respectively. Results showed that in HIV-1 negative women, the presence of the individual genes KIR2DL1 and KIR2DL3 increased the odds of having PM, and the KIR2DL2/KIR2DL2 homozygotes were associated with protection from PM. However, the reverse relationship was observed in HIV-1 positive women, where the presence of individual KIR2DL3 was associated with protection from PM, and KIR2DL2/KIR2DL2 homozygotes increased the odds for susceptibility to PM. Further analysis of the HIV-1 positive women stratified by CD4 counts showed that this reverse association between KIR genes and PM remained only in the individuals with high CD4 cell counts but not in those with low CD4 cell counts. Collectively, these results suggest that inhibitory KIR2DL2 and KIR2DL3, which are alleles of the same locus, play a role in the inverse effects on PM and PM/HIV co-infection and the effect of KIR genes on PM in HIV positive women is dependent on high CD4 cell counts. In addition, analysis of linkage disequilibrium (LD) of the PM relevant KIR genes showed strong LD in women without PM regardless of their HIV status while LD was broken in those with PM, indicating possible selection pressure by malaria infection on the KIR genes. PMID:22715396

NMDA Receptors Subserve Persistent Neuronal Firing During Working Memory In Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex

PubMed Central

Wang, Min; Yang, Yang; Wang, Ching-Jung; Gamo, Nao J.; Jin, Lu E.; Mazer, James A.; Morrison, John H.; Wang, Xiao-Jing; Arnsten, Amy F.T.

2013-01-01

Summary Neurons in the primate dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) generate persistent firing in the absence of sensory stimulation, the foundation of mental representation. Persistent firing arises from recurrent excitation within a network of pyramidal Delay cells. Here, we examined glutamate receptor influences underlying persistent firing in primate dlPFC during a spatial working memory task. Computational models predicted dependence on NMDA receptor (NMDAR) NR2B stimulation, and Delay cell persistent firing was abolished by local NR2B NMDAR blockade or by systemic ketamine administration. AMPA receptors (AMPAR) contributed background depolarization to sustain network firing. In contrast, many Response cells -which likely predominate in rodent PFC- were sensitive to AMPAR blockade and increased firing following systemic ketamine, indicating that models of ketamine actions should be refined to reflect neuronal heterogeneity. The reliance of Delay cells on NMDAR may explain why insults to NMDARs in schizophrenia or Alzheimer’s Disease profoundly impair cognition. PMID:23439125

Superior short-term cholesterol control and achievement of the adult treatment panel III low-density lipoprotein goals with initiation of statin therapy by the time of hospital discharge following acute myocardial infarction.

PubMed

Bybee, Kevin A; Powell, Brian D; Williams, Brent A; Murphy, Joseph G; Kopecky, Stephen L; Wright, R Scott

2004-03-15

In a community-based population, we compared serum cholesterol concentrations following hospital discharge after acute myocardial infarction based on statin therapy at the time of hospital discharge. At the time of follow-up cholesterol measurement, patients discharged from the hospital on a statin had lower mean low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (106.4 vs 116.7 mg/dl, p <0.01) and total cholesterol (182.2 vs 193.6 mg/dl, p <0.01) concentrations, larger absolute reductions in LDL (-24.7 vs -4.7 mg/dl, p <0.01) and total cholesterol (-24.2 vs -0.1 mg/dl, p <0.01) from pre-myocardial infarction levels, and superior attainment of the Adult Treatment Panel III LDL goal of <100 mg/dl at the time of follow-up compared with patients who were discharged without a statin (49% vs 33%; adjusted odds ratio 2.56; p <0.01).

Stereoselective aminoacylation of a dinucleoside monophosphate by the imidazolides of DL-alanine and N-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-DL-alanine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Profy, A. T.; Usher, D. A.

1984-01-01

The aminoacylation of diinosine monophosphate was studied experimentally. When the acylating agent was the imidazolide of N-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-DL-alanine, a 40 percent enantiomeric excess of the isomer was incorporated at the 2' site and the positions of equilibrium for the reversible 2'-3' migration reaction differed for the D and L enantiomers. The reactivity of the nucleoside hydroxyl groups was found to decrease on the order 2'(3') less than internal 2' and less than 5', and the extent of the reaction was affected by the concentration of the imidazole buffer. Reaction of IpI with imidazolide of unprotected DL-alanine, by contrast, led to an excess of the D isomer at the internal 2' site. Finally, reaction with the N-carboxy anhydride of DL-alanine occurred without stereoselection. These results are found to be relevant to the study of the evolution of optical chemical activity and the origin of genetically directed protein synthesis.

Total staff costs to implement a decision support system in nursing.

PubMed

Castilho, Valéria; Lima, Antônio Fernandes Costa; Fugulin, Fernanda Maria Togeiro; Peres, Heloisa Helena Ciqueto; Gaidzinski, Raquel Rapone

2014-01-01

to identify the direct labor (DL) costs to put in practice a decision support system (DSS) in nursing at the University Hospital of the University of São Paulo (HU-USP). the development of the DSS was mapped in four sub-processes: Conception, Elaboration, Construction and Transition. To calculate the DL, the baseline salary per professional category was added to the five-year additional remuneration, representation fees and social charges, and then divided by the number of hours contracted, resulting in the hour wage/professional, which was multiplied by the time spend on each activity in the sub-processes. the DL cost corresponded to R$ 752,618.56 (100%), R$ 26,000.00 (3.45%) of which were funded by a funding agency, while R$ 726,618.56 (96,55%) came from Hospital and University resources. considering the total DL cost, 72.1% related to staff wages for the informatics consulting company and 27.9% to the DL of professionals at the HU and the School of Nursing.

Dairy fat blend improves brain DHA and neuroplasticity and regulates corticosterone in mice.

PubMed

Dinel, A L; Rey, C; Bonhomme, C; Le Ruyet, P; Joffre, C; Layé, S

2016-06-01

Mimicking the breast milk lipid composition appears to be necessary for infant formula to cover the brain's needs in n-3 PUFA. In this study, we evaluated the impact of partial replacement of vegetable oil (VL) in infant formula by dairy fat (DL) on docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) brain level, neuroplasticity and corticosterone in mice. Mice were fed with balanced VL or balanced DL diets enriched or not in DHA and arachidonic acid (ARA) from the first day of gestation. Brain DHA level, microglia number, neurogenesis, corticosterone and glucocorticoid receptor expression were measured in the offsprings. DL diet increased DHA and neuroplasticity in the brain of mice at postnatal day (PND) 14 and at adulthood compared to VL. At PND14, ARA and DHA supplementation increased DHA in VL but not in DL mice brain. Importantly, DHA and ARA supplementation further improved neurogenesis and decreased corticosterone level in DL mice at adulthood. In conclusion, dairy lipids improve brain DHA level and neuroplasticity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls in marine fish from Shandong, China, and human dietary exposure.

PubMed

Cao, Yanping; Jiang, Dafeng; Li, Fenghua; Chen, Jindong; Li, Wei; Jiao, Yanni; Li, Lu

2018-05-22

The occurrence and human dietary exposure of 12 dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (DL-PCBs) in 41 marine fish samples from Shandong Province of China were investigated. The DL-PCB congeners were extracted using automated Soxhlet extraction, purified via a composite column cleanup procedure and analyzed by gas chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. DL-PCB congeners were found in all analyzed samples, with a mean concentration of 0.887 ng/g ww (wet weight). The TEQ concentrations of DL-PCBs in individual fish samples ranged from 0.011 to 9.214 pg WHO TEQ/g ww. The mean dietary intake for all fish species was 36.5 pg TEQ/kg bw/month, which was lower than the provisional tolerable monthly intake of 70 pg TEQ/kg bw/month set by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives. To monitor the trend of DL-PCBs in fish for food safety control it is necessary to maintain a surveillance program.

Chemical composition, rheological, quality characteristics and storage stability of buns enriched with coriander and curry leaves.

PubMed

Sudha, M L; Rajeswari, G; Venkateswara Rao, G

2014-12-01

Effect of addition of normal (NL) and dehydrated (DL) curry leaves (Murraya koeniggi) and coriander leaves (Corinadrum sativum) in the ratio of 1:1 to refined wheat flour (WF) or a blend of refined wheat flour-whole wheat flour (WF-WWF, 1:1) on the rheological, nutritional, storage and quality characteristics of the buns were studied. Water absorption increased on addition of increasing levels of DL from 0 to 7.5 % to WF-WWF when compared to WF. Dough weakening was greater when DL was added to WF-WWF as seen in decrease in dough stability and abscissa at rupture values. Addition of gluten and emulsifiers improved the quality characteristics of buns prepared using either 25 % NL or 5 % DL. Storage stability of buns with DL was better. The protein, dietary fiber, iron and carotenoids in buns prepared from WF-WWF were higher. The results indicate the utilization of leaves in dehydrated form in the preparation of nutritionally improved buns.

Hepatic and pulmonary apoptosis after hemorrhagic shock in swine can be reduced through modifications of conventional Ringer's solution.

PubMed

Ayuste, Eduardo C; Chen, Huazhen; Koustova, Elena; Rhee, Peter; Ahuja, Naresh; Chen, Zhang; Valeri, C Robert; Spaniolas, Konstantinos; Mehrani, Tina; Alam, Hasan B

2006-01-01

Cytotoxic properties of racemic (D-,L-isomers) lactated Ringer's solution detected in vitro and in small animal experiments, have not been confirmed in large animal models. Our hypothesis was that in a clinically relevant large animal model of hemorrhage, resuscitation with racemic lactated Ringer's solution would induce cellular apoptosis, which can be attenuated by elimination of d-lactate. Yorkshire swine (n = 49, weight 40-58 kg) were subjected to uncontrolled (iliac arterial and venous injuries) and controlled hemorrhage, totaling 40% of estimated blood volume. They were randomized (n = 7/group) to control groups, which consisted of (1) no hemorrhage (NH), (2) no resuscitation (NR), or resuscitation groups, which consisted of (3) 0.9% saline (NS), (4) racemic lactated Ringer's (DL-LR), (5) L-isomer lactated Ringer's (L-LR), (6) Ketone Ringer's (KR), (7) 6% hetastarch in 0.9% saline (Hespan). KR was identical to LR except for equimolar substitution of lactate with beta-hydroxybutyrate. Resuscitation was performed in three phases, simulating (1) prehospital, (2) operative, (3) postoperative/recovery periods. Arterial blood gasses, circulating cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-1, -6, -10), and markers of organ injury were serially measured. Metabolic activity of brain, and liver, was measured with microdialysis. Four hours postinjury, organs were harvested for Western blotting, ELISA, TUNEL assay, and immunohistochemistry. All resuscitation strategies restored blood pressure, but clearance of lactic acidosis was impeded following DL-LR resuscitation. Metabolic activity decreased during shock and improved with resuscitation, without any significant inter-group differences. Levels of cytokines in circulation were similar, but tissue levels of TNF in liver and lung increased six- and threefolds (p < 0.05) in NR group. In liver, all resuscitation strategies significantly decreased TNF levels compared with the NR group, but in the lung resuscitation with lactated Ringer (DL and L isomers) failed to decrease tissue TNF levels. DL-LR resuscitation also increased apoptosis (p < 0.05) in liver and lung, which was not seen after resuscitation with other solutions. In this large animal model of hemorrhagic shock, resuscitation with conventional (racemic) LR solution increased apoptotic cell death in liver and lung. This effect can be prevented by simple elimination of D-lactate from the Ringer's solution.

Soil Organic Carbon Sources of Respired CO2 in a Mid-successional North Temperate Forest

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Medina, N. L.; Hatton, P. J.; Le Moine, J.; Nadelhoffer, K. J.

2015-12-01

Given that soil organic matter (SOM) is the largest global terrestrial carbon (C) pool, some fractions of which have turnover times of centuries to millennia, it is critical to understand the mechanisms by which higher net primary productivity (NPP) and higher litter inputs, in the future, as predicted by some models, might alter the potentials of forest soils to serve as long-term C sinks. Here, we use a 10-year-old site in the DIRT (Detritus Input and Removal Treatments) network of litter manipulations to compare plots in a forested, northern-temperate sandy soil that were subjected to double-leaf-litter additions (DL) and both root- and leaf-litter removals (no inputs, NI) to non-manipulated controls. Previous data show that rather than increasing soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks, plots receiving doubled litter inputs lose SOC at rates similar to losses in Control soils. To trace the source of extra mineralized SOC, we analyzed field CO2 effluxes for δ13C and characterized SOC of varying degrees of organo-mineral association with sequential density fractionations. Soils in DL plots respired significantly faster (p=0.095) and proportionally more (p=0.015) than control soils over the course of July, August, and October 2014. This suggests a greater fresh litter contribution to soil efflux in DL than in Control plots after 10 years of treatment. Preliminary data show that intermediate (1.85 - 2.4 g/mL) and dense (>2.4 g/mL) fractions are relatively larger in DL than in Control soils. This suggests that the addition C from doubled litter could be more rapidly transferred into those more dense fractions, or that higher litter inputs prime the decomposition of lighter particulate SOC forms, leading to a relative increase of the dense organo-mineral associations. Using δ13C values to parameterize a multi-source mixing model, we partition the fate of both fresh litter and partially-decomposed SOC and will present on the modeled relative contributions of various sources to field CO2 effluxes from diverse treatments. Our preliminary data and expected results may suggest important contributions from mineral-associated SOC, rather than simply from free SOC, to seasonal field soil respiration. Thus, with higher litterfall rates, C that similar forest soils sequester may exhibit shorter ecosystem-level residence times.

Thermodynamic characteristics of protolytic equilibria in aqueous solutions of glycyl peptides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gridchin, S. N.

2016-11-01

Protolytic equilibria in aqueous solutions of glycyl-DL-serine, glycyl-DL-threonine, and glycyl-DL-valine are investigated by means of potentiometry and calorimetry. Dissociation constants and heat effects of the above dipeptides are determined. Standard thermodynamic characteristics (p K°, Δdis G°, Δdis H°, Δdis S°) of the investigated equilibria are calculated. The obtained results are compared to corresponding data on relative compounds.

Covalent trapping of human DNA polymerase beta by the oxidative DNA lesion 2-deoxyribonolactone.

PubMed

DeMott, Michael S; Beyret, Ergin; Wong, Donny; Bales, Brian C; Hwang, Jae-Taeg; Greenberg, Marc M; Demple, Bruce

2002-03-08

Oxidized abasic residues in DNA constitute a major class of radiation and oxidative damage. Free radical attack on the nucleotidyl C-1' carbon yields 2-deoxyribonolactone (dL) as a significant lesion. Although dL residues are efficiently incised by the main human abasic endonuclease enzyme Ape1, we show here that subsequent excision by human DNA polymerase beta is impaired at dL compared with unmodified abasic sites. This inhibition is accompanied by accumulation of a protein-DNA cross-link not observed in reactions of polymerase beta with unmodified abasic sites, although a similar form can be trapped by reduction with sodium borohydride. The formation of the stably cross-linked species with dL depends on the polymerase lysine 72 residue, which forms a Schiff base with the C-1 aldehyde during excision of an unmodified abasic site. In the case of a dL residue, attack on the lactone C-1 by lysine 72 proceeds more slowly and evidently produces an amide linkage, which resists further processing. Consequently dL residues may not be readily repaired by "short-patch" base excision repair but instead function as suicide substrates in the formation of protein-DNA cross-links that may require alternative modes of repair.

Utilization of exploration-based learning and video-assisted learning to teach GlideScope videolaryngoscopy.

PubMed

Johnston, Lindsay C; Auerbach, Marc; Kappus, Liana; Emerson, Beth; Zigmont, Jason; Sudikoff, Stephanie N

2014-01-01

GlideScope (GS) is used in pediatric endotracheal intubation (ETI) but requires a different technique compared to direct laryngoscopy (DL). This article was written to evaluate the efficacy of exploration-based learning on procedural performance using GS for ETI of simulated pediatric airways and establish baseline success rates and procedural duration using DL in airway trainers among pediatric providers at various levels. Fifty-five pediatric residents, fellows, and faculty from Pediatric Critical Care, NICU, and Pediatric Emergency Medicine were enrolled. Nine physicians from Pediatric Anesthesia benchmarked expert performance. Participants completed a demographic survey and viewed a video by the GS manufacturer. Subjects spent 15 minutes exploring GS equipment and practicing the intubation procedure. Participants then intubated neonatal, infant, child, and adult airway simulators, using GS and DL, in random order. Time to ETI was recorded. Procedural performance after exploration-based learning, measured as time to successful ETI, was shorter for DL than for GS for neonatal and child airways at the.05 significance level. Time to ETI in adult airway using DL was correlated with experience level (p =.01). Failure rates were not different among subgroups. A brief video and period of exploration-based learning is insufficient for implementing a new technology. Pediatricians at various levels of training intubated simulated airways faster using DL than GS.

Self-reinforced bioresorbable poly-L/DL-lactide [SR-P(L/DL)LA] 70/30 miniplates and miniscrews are reliable for fixation of anterior mandibular fractures: a pilot study.

PubMed

Ylikontiola, Leena; Sundqvuist, Kai; Sàndor, George K B; Törmälä, Pertti; Ashammakhi, Nureddin

2004-03-01

Bioresorbable osteofixation devices are being increasingly used in orthognathic surgery and in cases of trauma to avoid problems associated with conventional metal osteofixation devices. The aim of this clinical study was to assess the reliability and efficacy of bioresorbable self-reinforced poly-L/DL-lactide (SR-P(L/DL)LA 70/30) plates and screws in the fixation of mandibular fractures in adults. Ten patients (20 to 49 years old) with isolated anterior mandibular parasymphyseal fractures were treated by means of open reduction and internal fixation using SR-P(L/DL)LA 70/30 bioresorbable plates and screws. During the minimum of 6 months of follow-up, no problems were encountered except for 1 case where a plate became exposed intraorally and infected. This required debridement and later excision of the exposed part of the plate. Despite this setback the fractured bone healed well. SR-P(L/DL)LA 70/30 plates and screws are reliable for internal fixation of anterior mandibular fractures in adults. Proper soft tissue coverage should be ensured to avoid plate exposure. Should implant exposure occur, it might be necessary to excise the exposed part after fracture healing (6-8 weeks postoperatively).

Clinical assessment of a radioimmunoassay for free thyroxine using a modified tracer

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

Chan, D.W.; Waud, J.M.; Hsu, T.H.

1983-06-01

A radioimmunoassay for measuring free thyroxine in plasma was introduced by Amersham using a I-125-labeled T4 derivative that does not bind significantly to the thyroxine-binding proteins. We evaluated this RIA for its clinical utility in assessing 278 patients with thyroid and nonthyroidal diseases. The precision of the Amerlex free T4 assay, expressed as coefficient of variation, was 20% at 0.16 ng/dl, 6.9% at 0.55 ng/dl, 4.2% at 1.08 ng/dl, 5.3% at 2.29 ng/dl, and 6.3% at 3.18 ng/dl. A reference range for free T4 was established as 0.68-1.8 ng/dl, n . 171. The correlation coefficients (r) of a dialysis methodmore » and a free thyroxine index were 0.871 and 0.911, respectively. Free T4 correctly classified 98% euthyroid, 92% hypothyroid, 100% hyperthyroid, 100% euthyroid with elevated TBG, and 87% of phenytoin patients. In addition, 80 patients with acute nonthyroidal illness were studied. Most of these patients have normal to low free T4, very low T3, and elevated rT3. We found this free T4 assay to be precise, easy to perform, and reliable in classifying thyroid status in most patients.« less

Dissemination and Implementation of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Stimulant Dependence: A Randomized Trial Comparison of Three Approaches

PubMed Central

Rawson, Richard A.; Rataemane, Solomon; Rataemane, Lusanda; Ntlhe, Nomvuyo; Fox, Ruthlyn Sodano; McCuller, Jason; Brecht, Mary-Lynn

2012-01-01

This study evaluated the effectiveness of 3 approaches to transferring cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to addiction clinicians in the Republic of South Africa (RSA). Clinicians (N = 143) were assigned to 3 training conditions: (1) An in vivo (IV) approach in which clinicians received in-person training and coaching; (2) A distance learning (DL) approach providing training via video conference and coaching through teleconferencing; and (3) A control condition (C) providing a manual and 2-hour orientation. Frequency of use of CBT skills increased significantly with the IV and DL approaches compared to the C approach, and the IV approach facilitated greater use of CBT skills than the DL approach. During the active phase of the study, skill quality declined significantly for clinicians trained in the C condition, whereas those in the DL approach maintained skill quality and those in the IV approach improved skill quality. After coaching was discontinued, clinicians in the IV and DL approaches declined in skill quality. However, those in the IV approach maintained a higher level of skill quality compared to the other approaches. Cost of the IV condition was double that of the DL condition and 10 times greater than the C condition. PMID:23577903

Prevalence of Three-Rooted Mandibular First Molars among Indians Using SCT

PubMed Central

Garg, Amit Kumar; Tewari, Rajendra Kumar; Agrawal, Neha

2013-01-01

Undetected extra roots or root canals are a major reason for failure of endodontic treatment. Failure to recognize an extra distolingual (DL) root in mandibular first molar may lead to incomplete debridement of the root canal system and eventually treatment failure. Therefore, it is crucial that atypical anatomy is identified before and during dental treatment. Spiral computed tomography (SCT) images can show 3D images, and therefore much detail can be used when traditional methods prevent adequate endodontic treatment. The overall incidence of DL roots on the mandibular first molars was 6.40% for all patients and 5.00% for all teeth, respectively. The occurrence of DL roots on the right side and on the left side showed a statistically significant difference. The bilateral incidence of symmetrical distribution of DL roots was 56.25%. The DL root canal orifice was separated from DB canal orifice by 2.79 ± 0.34 mm, from the MB canal orifice by 4.23 ± 0.81 mm, and from the ML canal orifice by 3.29 ± 0.52 mm. The high prevalence of the DL root in permanent mandibular first molars among the Indian population by using SCT and estimations of the interorifice distance of such teeth might be useful for successful endodontic treatments. PMID:23840212

Methodological considerations of task and shoe wear on joint energetics during landing.

PubMed

Shultz, Sandra J; Schmitz, Randy J; Tritsch, Amanda J; Montgomery, Melissa M

2012-02-01

To better understand methodological factors that alter landings strategies, we compared sagittal plane joint energetics during the initial landing phase of drop jumps (DJ) vs. drop landings (DL), and when shod vs. barefoot. Surface electromyography, kinematic and kinetic data were obtained on 10 males and 10 females during five consecutive drop landings and five consecutive drop jumps (0.45m) when shod and when barefoot. Energy absorption was greater in the DJ vs. DL (P=.002), due to increased energy absorption at the hip during the DJ. Joint stiffness/impedance was more affected by shoe condition, where overall stiffness/impedance was greater in shod compared to barefoot conditions (P=.036). Further, hip impedance was greater in shod vs. barefoot for the DL only (via increased peak hip extensor moment in DL), while ankle stiffness was greater in the barefoot vs. shod condition for the DJ only (via decreased joint excursion and increased peak joint moment in DJ vs. DL) (P=.011). DJ and DL place different neuromechanical demands upon the lower extremities, and shoe wear may alter impact forces that modulate stiffness/impedance strategies. The impact of these methodological differences should be considered when comparing landing biomechanics across studies. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Occurrence, variability and human exposure to Polychlorinated Dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), Polychlorinated Dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and Dioxin-Like Polychlorinated Biphenyls (DL-PCBs) in dairy products from Chile during the 2011-2013 survey.

PubMed

Pizarro-Aránguiz, N; Galbán-Malagón, C J; Ruiz-Rudolph, P; Araya-Jordan, C; Maddaleno, A; San Martin, B

2015-05-01

Levels, congener profiles of PCDD/Fs, DL-PCBs and human exposure for these xenobiotics never have been reported in Chile. For that purpose 102 raw cow milk samples were collected from seven different regions of Chile during 2011 until 2013. The highest mean level for PCDD/Fs, corresponds to 0.32 pg WHO-TEQ2005 g(-1) fat (2012) and for DL-PCBs 0.17 pg WHO-TEQ2005 g(-1) fat (2011), using the upper bound approach. Penta and tetra chlorinated congeners dominated PCDD/Fs profiles in a WHO-TEQ2005 basis during the survey. In the case of DL-PCBs, PCB 126 dominated the profiles with 89%. Statistical analysis showed significant difference among years only in DL-PCBs residues. Also dietary intake was estimated, and the highest level for total sum of PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs for adult was 0.16 pg WHO-TEQ kg(-1) b.w d(-1) (2011) and for children correspond to 0.65 pg WHO-TEQ kg(-1) b.wd(-1) (2011). Concentrations and dietary intake for the studied compounds in milk and butter samples were below international and national regulations. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cognitive regulation during decision making shifts behavioral control between ventromedial and dorsolateral prefrontal value systems.

PubMed

Hutcherson, Cendri A; Plassmann, Hilke; Gross, James J; Rangel, Antonio

2012-09-26

Cognitive regulation is often used to influence behavioral outcomes. However, the computational and neurobiological mechanisms by which it affects behavior remain unknown. We studied this issue using an fMRI task in which human participants used cognitive regulation to upregulate and downregulate their cravings for foods at the time of choice. We found that activity in both ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) correlated with value. We also found evidence that two distinct regulatory mechanisms were at work: value modulation, which operates by changing the values assigned to foods in vmPFC and dlPFC at the time of choice, and behavioral control modulation, which operates by changing the relative influence of the vmPFC and dlPFC value signals on the action selection process used to make choices. In particular, during downregulation, activation decreased in the value-sensitive region of dlPFC (indicating value modulation) but not in vmPFC, and the relative contribution of the two value signals to behavior shifted toward the dlPFC (indicating behavioral control modulation). The opposite pattern was observed during upregulation: activation increased in vmPFC but not dlPFC, and the relative contribution to behavior shifted toward the vmPFC. Finally, ventrolateral PFC and posterior parietal cortex were more active during both upregulation and downregulation, and were functionally connected with vmPFC and dlPFC during cognitive regulation, which suggests that they help to implement the changes to the decision-making circuitry generated by cognitive regulation.

Cognitive Regulation during Decision Making Shifts Behavioral Control between Ventromedial and Dorsolateral Prefrontal Value Systems

PubMed Central

Plassmann, Hilke; Gross, James J.; Rangel, Antonio

2012-01-01

Cognitive regulation is often used to influence behavioral outcomes. However, the computational and neurobiological mechanisms by which it affects behavior remain unknown. We studied this issue using an fMRI task in which human participants used cognitive regulation to upregulate and downregulate their cravings for foods at the time of choice. We found that activity in both ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) correlated with value. We also found evidence that two distinct regulatory mechanisms were at work: value modulation, which operates by changing the values assigned to foods in vmPFC and dlPFC at the time of choice, and behavioral control modulation, which operates by changing the relative influence of the vmPFC and dlPFC value signals on the action selection process used to make choices. In particular, during downregulation, activation decreased in the value-sensitive region of dlPFC (indicating value modulation) but not in vmPFC, and the relative contribution of the two value signals to behavior shifted toward the dlPFC (indicating behavioral control modulation). The opposite pattern was observed during upregulation: activation increased in vmPFC but not dlPFC, and the relative contribution to behavior shifted toward the vmPFC. Finally, ventrolateral PFC and posterior parietal cortex were more active during both upregulation and downregulation, and were functionally connected with vmPFC and dlPFC during cognitive regulation, which suggests that they help to implement the changes to the decision-making circuitry generated by cognitive regulation. PMID:23015444

Methyl salicylate 2-O-β-D-lactoside, a novel salicylic acid analogue, acts as an anti-inflammatory agent on microglia and astrocytes

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Neuroinflammation has been known to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Activation of microglia and astrocytes is a characteristic of brain inflammation. Epidemiological studies have shown that long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) delays the onset of AD and suppresses its progression. Methyl salicylate-2-O-β-D-lactoside (DL0309) is a new molecule chemically related to salicylic acid. The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of DL0309. Findings Our studies show that DL0309 significantly inhibits lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced release of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α; and the expression of the inflammation-related proteins iNOS, COX-1, and COX-2 by microglia and astrocytes. At a concentration of 10 μM, DL0309 prominently inhibited LPS-induced activation of NF-κB in glial cells by blocking phosphorylation of IKK and p65, and by blocking IκB degradation. Conclusions We demonstrate here for the first time that DL0309 exerts anti-inflammatory effects in glial cells by suppressing different pro-inflammatory cytokines and iNOS/NO. Furthermore, it also regulates the NF-κB signaling pathway by blocking IKK and p65 activation and IκB degradation. DL0309 also acts as a non-selective COX inhibitor in glial cells. These studies suggest that DL0309 may be effective in the treatment of neuroinflammatory disorders, including AD. PMID:21831328

Alarm characterization for continuous glucose monitors used as adjuncts to self-monitoring of blood glucose.

PubMed

McGarraugh, Geoffrey

2010-01-01

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices available in the United States are approved for use as adjuncts to self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG). Alarm evaluation in the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guideline for CGM does not specifically address devices that employ both CGM and SMBG. In this report, an alarm evaluation method is proposed for these devices. The proposed method builds on the CLSI method using data from an in-clinic study of subjects with type 1 diabetes. CGM was used to detect glycemic events, and SMBG was used to determine treatment. To optimize detection of a single glucose level, such as 70 mg/dl, a range of alarm threshold settings was evaluated. The alarm characterization provides a choice of alarm settings that trade off detection and false alarms. Detection of a range of high glucose levels was similarly evaluated. Using low glucose alarms, detection of 70 mg/dl within 30 minutes increased from 64 to 97% as alarm settings increased from 70 to 100 mg/dl, and alarms that did not require treatment (SMBG >85 mg/dl) increased from 18 to 52%. Using high glucose alarms, detection of 180 mg/dl within 30 minutes increased from 87 to 96% as alarm settings decreased from 180 to 165 mg/dl, and alarms that did not require treatment (SMBG <180 mg/dl) increased from 24 to 42%. The proposed alarm evaluation method provides information for choosing appropriate alarm thresholds and reflects the clinical utility of CGM alarms. 2010 Diabetes Technology Society.

Endocrine-metabolic responses to military field operations: Effects of cold and moderate altitude exposure

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

Floyd, E.; Hackney, A.C.; Hodgdon, J.A.

1991-03-11

Select endocrine-metabolic responses of US Marines to 4.5 day field operations (FOPS) in different environments were examined. Blood and urine samples were collected in the field immediately before and after FOPS at: (1) sea level, neutral temperatures (Ts) (SLN; n = 14), (2) sea level, cold Ts (SLC; n = 16), (3) 2,500 M altitude, neutral Ts (ALN; n = 16), and (4) 2,500 M altitude, cold Ts (ALC; n = 45). Measures examined were testosterone (T), cortisol (C), glucose (Glu), triglycerides (Tg), and urinary ketones (Uket). T decreased pre-post the FOPS in the cold conditions ({bar X}; 6.7 tomore » 5.5 hg/ml; n = 61) but did not change in neutral conditions. C increased pre-post FOPS at SLC (12.1 to 19.8 ug/dl, p < 0.01), ALN (9.3 to 13.9 ug/dl, p < 0.01), and ALC (16.7 to 19.0 ug/dl, p = 0.08). Normoglycemia was maintained under each condition. Tg decreased (p < 0.01) at SLC, ALN, and ALC ({bar X}{triangle}: {minus}59.1, {minus}102.2, {minus}93.3 mg/dl, respectively), but increased at SLN (+74.0 mg/dl). Uket increased post FOPS only at ALN and ALC ({bar X}{triangle}: 3.4 mg/dl and +11.3 mg/dl). The Uket increases were correlated to Tg decreases. Results suggest FOPS induces a slight endocrine stress response, which is augmented with moderate altitude or cold exposure. Furthermore FOPS at altitude, especially in the cold, seems to shift the body towards fat metabolism.« less

Liver condition of Holstein cows affects mitochondrial function and fertilization ability of oocytes

PubMed Central

TANAKA, Hiroshi; TAKEO, Shun; ABE, Takahito; KIN, Airi; SHIRASUNA, Koumei; KUWAYAMA, Takehito; IWATA, Hisataka

2016-01-01

The aim of the present study was to examine the fertilization ability and mitochondrial function of oocytes derived from cows with or without liver damage. Oocytes were collected from the ovaries of cows with damaged livers (DL) and those of cows with healthy livers (HL), subjected to in vitro maturation, and fertilized in vitro. A significantly high abnormal fertilization rate was observed for oocytes from DL cows compared to oocytes from HL cows. The time to dissolve the zona pellucida by protease before fertilization was similar between the two liver conditions, whereas after fertilization treatment this time was shorter for DL cows than for HL cows. The percentage of oocytes with equivalent cortical granule distributions underneath the membrane was greater for in vitro matured oocytes from HL cows, whereas an immature distribution pattern was observed for oocytes from DL cows. In addition, a greater percentage of oocytes derived from HL cows released cortical granules following fertilization compared with oocytes from DL cows. Mitochondrial function determined by ATP content and membrane potential were similar at the germinal vesicle stage, but post-in vitro maturation, the oocytes derived from HL cows showed higher values than DL cows. The mitochondrial DNA copy number in oocytes was similar between the two liver conditions for both the germinal vesicle and post-in vitro maturation oocytes. In conclusion, liver damage induces low fertilization, likely because of incomplete cortical granule distribution and release, and the maturation of oocytes from DL cows contain low-functioning mitochondria compared to their HL counterparts. PMID:26832309

Diagnostic Laparoscopy for Trauma: How Not to Miss Injuries.

PubMed

Koto, Modise Z; Matsevych, Oleh Y; Aldous, Colleen

2018-05-01

Diagnostic laparoscopy (DL) is a well-accepted approach for penetrating abdominal trauma (PAT). However, the steps of procedure and the systematic laparoscopic examination are not clearly defined in the literature. The aim of this study was to clarify the definition of DL in trauma surgery by auditing DL performed for PAT at our institution, and to describe the strategies on how to avoid missed injuries. The data of patients managed with laparoscopy for PAT from January 2012 to December 2015 were retrospectively analyzed. The details of operative technique and strategies on how to avoid missed injuries were discussed. Out of 250 patients managed with laparoscopy for PAT, 113 (45%) patients underwent DL. Stab wounds sustained 94 (83%) patients. The penetration of the peritoneal cavity or retroperitoneum was documented in 67 (59%) of patients. Organ evisceration was present in 21 (19%) patients. Multiple injuries were present in 22% of cases. The chest was the most common associated injury. Two (1.8%) iatrogenic injuries were recorded. The conversion rate was 1.7% (2/115). The mean length of hospital stay was 4 days. There were no missed injuries. In the therapeutic laparoscopy (TL) group, DL was performed as the initial part and identified all injuries. There were no missed injuries in the TL group. The predetermined sequential steps of DL and the standard systematic examination of intraabdominal organs were described. DL is a feasible and safe procedure. It accurately identifies intraabdominal injuries. The selected use of preoperative imaging, adherence to the predetermined steps of procedure and the standard systematic laparoscopic examination will minimize the rate of missed injuries.

Liver condition of Holstein cows affects mitochondrial function and fertilization ability of oocytes.

PubMed

Tanaka, Hiroshi; Takeo, Shun; Abe, Takahito; Kin, Airi; Shirasuna, Koumei; Kuwayama, Takehito; Iwata, Hisataka

2016-06-17

The aim of the present study was to examine the fertilization ability and mitochondrial function of oocytes derived from cows with or without liver damage. Oocytes were collected from the ovaries of cows with damaged livers (DL) and those of cows with healthy livers (HL), subjected to in vitro maturation, and fertilized in vitro. A significantly high abnormal fertilization rate was observed for oocytes from DL cows compared to oocytes from HL cows. The time to dissolve the zona pellucida by protease before fertilization was similar between the two liver conditions, whereas after fertilization treatment this time was shorter for DL cows than for HL cows. The percentage of oocytes with equivalent cortical granule distributions underneath the membrane was greater for in vitro matured oocytes from HL cows, whereas an immature distribution pattern was observed for oocytes from DL cows. In addition, a greater percentage of oocytes derived from HL cows released cortical granules following fertilization compared with oocytes from DL cows. Mitochondrial function determined by ATP content and membrane potential were similar at the germinal vesicle stage, but post-in vitro maturation, the oocytes derived from HL cows showed higher values than DL cows. The mitochondrial DNA copy number in oocytes was similar between the two liver conditions for both the germinal vesicle and post-in vitro maturation oocytes. In conclusion, liver damage induces low fertilization, likely because of incomplete cortical granule distribution and release, and the maturation of oocytes from DL cows contain low-functioning mitochondria compared to their HL counterparts.

Correlation between synergistic action of Radix Angelica dahurica extracts on analgesic effects of Corydalis alkaloid and plasma concentration of dl-THP.

PubMed

Liao, Zheng-Gen; Liang, Xin-Li; Zhu, Jing-Yun; Zhao, Guo-Wei; Yang, Ming; Wang, Guang-Fa; Jiang, Qie-Ying; Chen, Xu-Long

2010-05-04

Yuanhu Zhitong prescription that consists of Corydalis yanhusuo and Radix Angelicae dahuricae has been used for the treatment of gastralgia, costalgia, headache and dysmenorrhea in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Our previous studies demonstrated that Corydalis alkaloid (CA, derived from the root of Corydalis yanhusu) had potent analgesic properties, and the total coumarins of Angelica dahurica (Cou) and volatile oil (VO) that derived from the root of Radix Angelicae dahuricae all could increase the analgesic effect of CA. The major objective of this paper was to investigate the mechanism that leading the analgesia of CA increased by Cou and (or) VO. The relationship between analgesic effect of CA and the plasma concentration of Dl-tetrahydropalmatine (dl-THP, active component of CA) was assayed in mice writhing test. The CA (34, 68 and 134 mg/kg) reduced the nociception by acetic acid intraperitoneal injection in a dose-dependent manner, and there was a significant linear relationship between the analgesic effect of CA and the plasma concentration of dl-THP. Then the plasma concentration of dl-THP at different time intervals in rats after oral administration of CA, CA-Cou, CA-VO and CA-Cou-VO were examined by using HPLC. The results indicated that Cou and (or) VO raised the plasma concentration of dl-THP prominently. In conclusion, the reason that Radix Angelica dahurica extracts reinforced the analgesic effects of Corydalis alkaloid was related to the improvement of the plasma concentration of dl-THP. (c) 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Dual-layer DECT for multiphasic hepatic CT with 50 percent iodine load: a matched-pair comparison with a 120 kVp protocol.

PubMed

Nagayama, Yasunori; Nakaura, Takeshi; Oda, Seitaro; Utsunomiya, Daisuke; Funama, Yoshinori; Iyama, Yuji; Taguchi, Narumi; Namimoto, Tomohiro; Yuki, Hideaki; Kidoh, Masafumi; Hirata, Kenichiro; Nakagawa, Masataka; Yamashita, Yasuyuki

2018-04-01

To evaluate the image quality and lesion conspicuity of virtual-monochromatic-imaging (VMI) with dual-layer DECT (DL-DECT) for reduced-iodine-load multiphasic-hepatic CT. Forty-five adults with renal dysfunction who had undergone hepatic DL-DECT with 300-mgI/kg were included. VMI (40-70-keV, DL-DECT-VMI) was generated at each enhancement phase. As controls, 45 matched patients undergoing standard 120-kVp protocol (120-kVp, 600-mgI/kg, and iterative reconstruction) were included. We compared the size-specific dose estimate (SSDE), image noise, CT attenuation, and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) between protocols. Two radiologists scored the image quality and lesion conspicuity. SSDE was significantly lower in DL-DECT group (p < 0.01). Image noise of DL-DECT-VMI was almost constant at each keV (differences of ≤15%) and equivalent to or lower than of 120-kVp. As the energy decreased, CT attenuation and CNR gradually increased; the values of 55-60 keV images were almost equivalent to those of standard 120-kVp. The highest scores for overall quality and lesion conspicuity were assigned at 40-keV followed by 45 to 55-keV, all of which were similar to or better than of 120-kVp. For multiphasic-hepatic CT with 50% iodine-load, DL-DECT-VMI at 40- to 55-keV provides equivalent or better image quality and lesion conspicuity without increasing radiation dose compared with standard 120-kVp protocol. • 40-55-keV yields optimal image quality for half-iodine-load multiphasic-hepatic CT with DL-DECT. • DL-DECT protocol decreases radiation exposure compared with 120-kVp scans with iterative reconstruction. • 40-keV images maximise conspicuity of hepatocellular carcinoma especially at hepatic-arterial phase.

Preparation, optimisation and characterisation of novel wound healing film dressings loaded with streptomycin and diclofenac.

PubMed

Pawar, H V; Tetteh, J; Boateng, J S

2013-02-01

Streptomycin (STP) and diclofenac (DLF) loaded film dressings were prepared by blending Polyox(®) (POL) with four hydrophilic polymers [hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), carrageenan (CAR), sodium alginate (SA) or chitosan (CS)] using glycerol (GLY) as plasticiser. The films were characterised by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, texture analysis (tensile and swelling characteristics) and in vitro dissolution profiles using Franz diffusion cell. SEM showed homogeneous morphology for both blank (BLK) and drug loaded (DL) films. Films prepared by blending of POL with the other polymers showed a reduction in the crystallisation of POL in descending order of SA>CS>HPMC>CAR respectively. DSC and XRD showed no crystalline peaks of STP and DLF suggesting molecular dispersion of both drugs as well as possible drug interaction with negatively charged sulphate ions present in CAR. The DL films did not show any IR bands of both drugs, confirming the DSC and XRD results. POL-CAR-BLK films showed higher tensile strength (12.32±1.40 MPa) than the POL-CAR-DL films (9.52±1.12 MPa). DL films plasticised with 25%w/w GLY revealed soft and tough (tensile strength 1.02±0.28 MPa, % elongation 1031.33±16.23) formulations. The swelling capacities of POL-CAR-BLK and POL-CAR-DL films were (733.17±25.78%) and (646.39±40.39%), increasing to (1072.71±80.30%) and (1051±86.68%) for POL-CAR-BLK-25% GLY and POL-CAR-DL-25% GLY respectively. POL-CAR-DL films showed significantly (n=3, p<0.0318) lower cumulative release of STP and DLF (52.11±1.34, 55.26±2.25) compared to POL-CAR-DL-25% GLY films (60.07±1.56, 63.39±1.92) respectively. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Role of G308 promoter variant of tumor necrosis factor alpha gene on weight loss and metabolic parameters after a high monounsaturated versus a high polyunsaturated fat hypocaloric diets.

PubMed

de Luis, Daniel A; Aller, Rocío; Izaola, Olatz; Gonzalez Sagrado, Manuel; Conde, Rosa

2013-09-07

The aim of our study was to investigate the influence of G-308 promoter variant of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha gene on metabolic changes and weight loss secondary to a high monounsaturated fat vs a high polyunsaturated fat hypocaloric diet in obese subjects. A sample of 261 obese subjects were enrolled in a consecutive prospective way, from May 2011 to July 2012 in a tertiary hospital. In the basal visit, patients were randomly allocated during 3 months to Diet M (high monounsaturated fat hypocaloric diet) and Diet P (high polyunsaturated fat hypocaloric diet). One hundred and ninety seven patients (73.2%) had the genotype G-308G and 64 (26.8%) patients had the genotype G-308A. There were no significant differences between the effects (on weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, fat mass) in either genotype group with both diets. With the diet type P and in genotype G-308G, glucose levels (-6.7(22.1)mg/dl vs -3.7(2.2)mg/dl: p = 0.02), HOMA-R (-0.6(2.1)units vs -0.26(3.1)units: p = 0.01), insulin levels (-1.7(6.6)UI/L vs -0.6(7.1)UI/L: p = 0.009), total cholesterol levels (-15.3(31.1)mg/dl vs -8.4(22.1)mg/dl: p = 0.01), LDL cholesterol levels (-10.7(28.1)mg/dl vs -3.8(21.1)mg/dl: p = 0.008) and triglycerides (-12.1(52.1)mg/dl vs -6.6(43.1)mg/dl: p = 0.02) decreased. Carriers of the G-308G promoter variant of TNF alpha gene have a better metabolic response than A-308 obese with a high polyunsaturated fat hypocaloric diet. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier España, S.L. All rights reserved.

Nicotinic α7 receptors enhance NMDA cognitive circuits in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex

PubMed Central

Yang, Yang; Paspalas, Constantinos D.; Jin, Lu E.; Picciotto, Marina R.; Arnsten, Amy F. T.; Wang, Min

2013-01-01

The cognitive function of the highly evolved dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) is greatly influenced by arousal state, and is gravely afflicted in disorders such as schizophrenia, where there are genetic insults in α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (α7-nAChRs). A recent behavioral study indicates that ACh depletion from dlPFC markedly impairs working memory [Croxson PL, Kyriazis DA, Baxter MG (2011) Nat Neurosci 14(12):1510–1512]; however, little is known about how α7-nAChRs influence dlPFC cognitive circuits. Goldman-Rakic [Goldman-Rakic (1995) Neuron 14(3):477–485] discovered the circuit basis for working memory, whereby dlPFC pyramidal cells excite each other through glutamatergic NMDA receptor synapses to generate persistent network firing in the absence of sensory stimulation. Here we explore α7-nAChR localization and actions in primate dlPFC and find that they are enriched in glutamate network synapses, where they are essential for dlPFC persistent firing, with permissive effects on NMDA receptor actions. Blockade of α7-nAChRs markedly reduced, whereas low-dose stimulation selectively enhanced, neuronal representations of visual space. These findings in dlPFC contrast with the primary visual cortex, where nAChR blockade had no effect on neuronal firing [Herrero JL, et al. (2008) Nature 454(7208):1110–1114]. We additionally show that α7-nAChR stimulation is needed for NMDA actions, suggesting that it is key for the engagement of dlPFC circuits. As ACh is released in cortex during waking but not during deep sleep, these findings may explain how ACh shapes differing mental states during wakefulness vs. sleep. The results also explain why genetic insults to α7-nAChR would profoundly disrupt cognitive experience in patients with schizophrenia. PMID:23818597

A 1-year trial of repeated high-dose intravenous iron isomaltoside 1000 to maintain stable hemoglobin levels in inflammatory bowel disease

PubMed Central

Reinisch, Walter; Altorjay, Istvan; Zsigmond, Ferenc; Primas, Christian; Vogelsang, Harald; Novacek, Gottfried; Reinisch, Sieglinde; Thomsen, Lars L.

2015-01-01

Abstract Objective. Iron isomaltoside 1000 (Monofer®) is a high-dose intravenous (IV) iron, which in a recent 8 weeks trial in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) subjects with iron deficiency anemia (IDA) demonstrated good tolerability and efficacy. The present trial is an extension to this trial, which evaluates the need for additional high IV iron doses to maintain a stable hemoglobin (Hb) ≥12.0 g/dl. Material and methods. This was a prospective, open-label, 12 months trial of European IBD subjects willing to participate after completing the lead-in trial. Subjects were allowed re-dosing with 500–2000 mg single doses of iron isomaltoside 1000 infused over ∼15 min at 3 months intervals depending on a predefined algorithm. Outcome measures included Hb, safety parameters and need for additional iron dosing. Results. A total of 39 subjects were enrolled of which 34 subjects required re-dosing with a median cumulative 1-year dose of 1.8 g (mean cumulative dose 2.2 g). The mean (SD) Hb was 12.3 (1.5) g/dl at baseline, 12.8 (1.6) g/dl at 3 months, 12.8 (1.6) g/dl at 6 months, 12.9 (1.4) g/dl at 9 months and 12.9 (1.6) g/dl at 12 months. Seventy-four percent of subjects who had an Hb ≥12.0 g/dl at baseline were able to maintain Hb ≥12.0 g/dl till the end of the trial at 12 months. Nonserious probably related hypersensitivity reactions without significant hypotension were reported at the beginning of the infusion in two subjects, who recovered without sequelae. Conclusion. Repeated treatment of iron deficiency with iron isomaltoside 1000 could avoid episodes of IDA without major safety issues. PMID:25900645

Diagnostic value of "dysphagia limit" for neurogenic dysphagia: 17 years of experience in 1278 adults.

PubMed

Aydogdu, Ibrahim; Kiylioglu, Nefati; Tarlaci, Sultan; Tanriverdi, Zeynep; Alpaydin, Sezin; Acarer, Ahmet; Baysal, Leyla; Arpaci, Esra; Yuceyar, Nur; Secil, Yaprak; Ozdemirkiran, Tolga; Ertekin, Cumhur

2015-03-01

Neurogenic dysphagia (ND) is a prevalent condition that accounts for significant mortality and morbidity worldwide. Screening and follow-up are critical for early diagnosis and management which can mitigate its complications and be cost-saving. The aims of this study are to provide a comprehensive investigation of the dysphagia limit (DL) in a large diverse cohort and to provide a longitudinal assessment of dysphagia in a subset of subjects. We developed a quantitative and noninvasive method for objective assessment of dysphagia by using laryngeal sensor and submental electromyography. DL is the volume at which second or more swallows become necessary to swallow the whole amount of bolus. This study represents 17 years experience with the DL approach in assessing ND in a cohort of 1278 adult subjects consisting of 292 healthy controls, 784 patients with dysphagia, and 202 patients without dysphagia. A total of 192 of all patients were also reevaluated longitudinally over a period of 1-19 months. DL has 92% sensitivity, 91% specificity, 94% positive predictive value, and 88% negative predictive value with an accuracy of 0.92. Patients with ALS, stroke, and movement disorders have the highest sensitivity (85-97%) and positive predictive value (90-99%). The clinical severity of dysphagia has significant negative correlation with DL (r=-0.67, p<0.0001). We propose the DL as a reliable, quick, noninvasive, quantitative test to detect and follow both clinical and subclinical dysphagia and it can be performed in an EMG laboratory. Our study provides specific quantitative features of DL test that can be readily utilized by the neurologic community and nominates DL as an objective and robust method to evaluate dysphagia in a wide range of neurologic conditions. Copyright © 2014 International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Secondary prevention of ischemic heart disease in the Cuidad Real Province, Spain. Effectiveness of lipid-lowering therapy in primary health care].

PubMed

2000-09-23

The efficacy of lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) in ischemic heart disease (IHD) is well established. But there are some doubts about its effectiveness on Primary Health Care (PHC) where we develop the long-term control of this sickness and it is difficult to reproduce the terms of the clinical trials. Multicenter cross-sectional study designed to evaluate the control of dyslipidemia achieved in patients with IHD diagnosed more than a year ago in our geographic primary health care system. The total cholesterol (tC), LDL, triglyceride, HDL levels and tC/HDL were determined to analyze the impact of LLT. 205 patients were collected by 14 general practitioners in several PHC centers. The average lipid profiles recorded (tC: 218 mg/dl; LDL: 151 mg/dl; triglyceride: 136 mg/dl; HDL: 49 mg/dl, and tC/HDL: 4,8) were far to the recommended by the international guidelines. The ideal (LDL < 100 mg/dl) and the acceptable targets (LDL < 130) were achieved by 9 and 30%. The HDL was not assess in 26.4% of the patients. It had had slight improvement of the women profile risk by more elevated values of HDLc than men (54.4 mg/dl vs. 46.9 mg/dl; p = 0.0002). Only 98 patients (45.85%) receive LLT, while 70% presented LDL > 130 mg/dl. The average dose of hypolipidemiants was small and the combination therapy had been scanty used (2.7%). The hypolipidemic secondary prevention was incorrect, with a big gap between the efficacy of the LLT and the actual effectiveness. In the majority of cases (75-80%) the values exceeded the secondary prevention targets. In a quarter of patients had never existed a clearly defined therapeutic target because the levels of HDL and LDL were not assessed. It was not prescribed neither fitting drug doses nor combinations to reach lipidemic preventive levels.

Delayed peak response of cortisol to insulin tolerance test in patients with Prader-Willi syndrome.

PubMed

Oto, Yuji; Matsubara, Keiko; Ayabe, Tadayuki; Shiraishi, Masahisa; Murakami, Nobuyuki; Ihara, Hiroshi; Matsubara, Tomoyo; Nagai, Toshiro

2018-06-01

Deaths among children with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) are often related to only mild or moderate upper respiratory tract infections, and many causes of death remain unexplained. Several reports have hypothesized that patients with PWS may experience latent central adrenal insufficiency. However, whether PWS subjects suffer from alteration of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the HPA axis on PWS. We evaluated the HPA axis in 36 PWS patients (24 males, 12 females; age range, 7 months to 12 years; median age 2.0 years; interquartile range [IQR], 1.5-3.4 years) using an insulin tolerance test (ITT) in the morning between 08:00 and 11:00. For comparison, ITT results in 37 age-matched healthy children evaluated for short stature were used as controls. In PWS patients, basal levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) were 13.5 pg/ml (IQR, 8.3-27.5 pg/ml) and basal levels of cortisol were 18.0 μg/dl (IQR, 14.2-23.7 μg/dl). For all patients, cortisol levels at 60 min after stimulation were within the reference range (>18.1 μg/dl), with a median peak of 41.5 μg/dl (IQR, 32.3-48.6 μg/dl). Among control children, basal level of ACTH and basal and peak levels of cortisol were 10.9 (IQR, 8.5-22.0 pg/ml), 15.6 (IQR, 11.9-21.6 μg/dl), and 27.8 μg/dl (IQR, 23.7-30.5 μg/dl), respectively. Basal and peak levels of cortisol were all within normal ranges, but peak response of cortisol to ITT was delayed in the majority of PWS patients (64%). Although the mechanism remains unclear, this delay may signify the existence of central obstacle in adjustment of the HPA axis. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Suppression of a Natural Killer Cell Response by Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Peptides

PubMed Central

Schafer, Jamie L.; Ries, Moritz; Guha, Natasha; Connole, Michelle; Colantonio, Arnaud D.; Wiertz, Emmanuel J.; Wilson, Nancy A.; Kaur, Amitinder; Evans, David T.

2015-01-01

Natural killer (NK) cell responses in primates are regulated in part through interactions between two highly polymorphic molecules, the killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) on NK cells and their major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I ligands on target cells. We previously reported that the binding of a common MHC class I molecule in the rhesus macaque, Mamu-A1*002, to the inhibitory receptor Mamu-KIR3DL05 is stabilized by certain simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) peptides, but not by others. Here we investigated the functional implications of these interactions by testing SIV peptides bound by Mamu-A1*002 for the ability to modulate Mamu-KIR3DL05+ NK cell responses. Twenty-eight of 75 SIV peptides bound by Mamu-A1*002 suppressed the cytolytic activity of primary Mamu-KIR3DL05+ NK cells, including three immunodominant CD8+ T cell epitopes previously shown to stabilize Mamu-A1*002 tetramer binding to Mamu-KIR3DL05. Substitutions at C-terminal positions changed inhibitory peptides into disinhibitory peptides, and vice versa, without altering binding to Mamu-A1*002. The functional effects of these peptide variants on NK cell responses also corresponded to their effects on Mamu-A1*002 tetramer binding to Mamu-KIR3DL05. In assays with mixtures of inhibitory and disinhibitory peptides, low concentrations of inhibitory peptides dominated to suppress NK cell responses. Consistent with the inhibition of Mamu-KIR3DL05+ NK cells by viral epitopes presented by Mamu-A1*002, SIV replication was significantly higher in Mamu-A1*002+ CD4+ lymphocytes co-cultured with Mamu-KIR3DL05+ NK cells than with Mamu-KIR3DL05- NK cells. These results demonstrate that viral peptides can differentially affect NK cell responses by modulating MHC class I interactions with inhibitory KIRs, and provide a mechanism by which immunodeficiency viruses may evade NK cell responses. PMID:26333068

Monaural Speech Segregation by Integrating Primitive and Schema-Based Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-02-03

vol. 19, pp. 475-492. Wang D.L. and Chang P.S. (2008): An oscillatory correlation model of auditory streaming. Cognitive Neurodynamics , vol. 2, pp...Subcontracts DeLiang Wang (Principal Investigator) March 2008 Department of Computer Science & Engineering and Center for Cognitive Science The

Effect of urate-lowering therapies on renal disease progression in patients with hyperuricemia.

PubMed

Levy, Gerald D; Rashid, Nazia; Niu, Fang; Cheetham, T Craig

2014-05-01

To evaluate the association between hyperuricemia and renal disease progression in a real-world, large observational database study. We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study identifying 111,992 patients with hyperuricemia (> 7 mg/dl) from a large medical group. The final cohort were ≥ 18 years old, urate-lowering therapy (ULT)-naïve, and had the following laboratory results available: at least 1 glomerular filtration rate (GFR) level before the index date and at least 1 serum uric acid (sUA) level and GFR in the followup 36-month period. The cohort was categorized into 3 groups: never treated (NoTx), ULT time receiving therapy of < 80% (< 80%), and ULT time receiving therapy of ≥ 80% (≥ 80%). Outcomes were defined as a ≥ 30% reduction in GFR from baseline, dialysis, or GFR of ≤ 15 ml/min. A subanalysis of patients with sUA < 6 mg/dl at study conclusion was performed. Cox proportional hazards regression model determined factors associated with renal function decline. A total of 16,186 patients met inclusion criteria. There were 11,192 NoTx patients, 3902 with < 80% time receiving ULT, and 1092 with ≥ 80% time receiving ULT. Factors associated with renal disease progression were age, sex, hypertension, diabetes, congestive heart failure, hospitalizations, rheumatoid arthritis, and higher sUA at baseline. Time receiving therapy was not associated with renal outcomes. Patients who achieved sUA < 6 mg/dl had a 37% reduction in outcome events (p < 0.0001; HR 0.63, 95% CI: 0.5-0.78). Hyperuricemia is an independent risk factor for renal function decline. Patients treated with ULT who achieved sUA < 6 mg/dl on ULT showed a 37% reduction in outcome events.

Neck circumference, metabolic syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome; Evaluation of possible linkage

PubMed Central

Ahbab, Süleyman; Ataoğlu, Hayriye Esra; Tuna, Mazhar; Karasulu, Levent; Çetin, Faik; Temiz, Levent Ümit; Yenigün, Mustafa

2013-01-01

Background This study was performed to evaluate neck circumference (NC) and metabolic syndrome (MS) parameters in severe and non-severe (mild-moderate) obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) patients according to apnea-hypopnea index (AHI). Material/Method We enrolled 44 patients diagnosed with OSAS based on overnight polysomnography. The diagnosis of OSAS was based on AHI. Apnea is a pause of airflow for more than 10 seconds. and hypopnea is a decrease of airflow for more than 10 seconds and oxygen desaturation of 4% or greater. AHI score. per hour; below 5 normal. 5–29 mild-moderate. 30 and above were grouped as severe OSAS. Height. weight. neck circumference (NC). waist circumference (WC) and body mass index (BMI) of the patients were measured. MS was diagnosed by the Adult Treatment Panel (ATP) III criteria (≥3 of the following abnormalities): 1) WC ≥94 cm for males, ≥80 cm for females; 2) arterial blood pressure ≥130/85 mmHg; 3) fasting blood glucose ≥100 mg/dl; 4) high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol <40 mg/dl in man, <50 mg/dl in women; 5) triglycerides ≥150 mg/dl. Results Mean BMI and NC were higher in severe OSAS patients compared to non-severe patients (p=0.021. p<0.001). According to ATP III criteria. 64% of severe and 61.1% of non-severe OSAS patients were MS (p=0.847). A logistic regression model displayed an association with NC as a risk factor for severe OSAS (p=0.01). but not with MS. Conclusions In this study. NC in severe OSAS patients was significantly higher than in non-severe OSAS patients. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was not correlated with OSAS severity. NC is an independent risk factor for severe OSAS. PMID:23403781

Comparison of postoperative pain and inflammation reaction in dogs undergoing preventive laparoscopic-assisted and incisional gastropexy.

PubMed

Haraguchi, Tomoya; Kimura, Shiho; Itoh, Harumichi; Nishikawa, Shimpei; Hiyama, Masato; Tani, Kenji; Iseri, Toshie; Itoh, Yoshiki; Nakaichi, Munekazu; Taura, Yasuho; Itamoto, Kazuhito

2017-09-12

This study compared the effects of postoperative pain and inflammation reaction after preventive laparoscopic-assisted gastropexy (LAG) and incisional gastropexy (IG) in 10 clinically normal Beagles. Surgical time, incision length, visual analog scale (VAS) score, University of Melbourne Pain Scale (UMPS) score, and plasma C-reactive protein (CRP), plasma cortisol (COR), and serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels were evaluated. The VAS and UMPS scores and COR and IL-6 levels were recorded at 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 18 and 24 hr after surgery. CRP level was recorded at 12, 24 and 48 hr after surgery. The VAS and UMPS scores showed no significant intergroup differences. Compared to IG, LAG had significantly lower surgical time (45 ± 9.91 min vs 64 ± 5.30 min; P<0.05), incision length (46 ± 8.21 mm vs 129 ± 19.49 mm; P<0.05), CRP level (12 hr after surgery; 4.58 ± 1.58 mg/dl vs 12.4 ± 1.34 mg/dl; P<0.01), and COR level (1 hr after surgery; 10.79 ± 3.07 µg/dl vs 15.9 ± 3.77 µg/dl; P<0.05). IL-6 levels showed no significant intergroup differences at any time point. However, LAG resulted in lower IL-6 levels than did IG at all postoperative time points. Neither procedure resulted in significant surgical complications. LAG produced lower surgical stress than did IG, suggesting that LAG is a safe, minimally invasive, and highly useful technique for preventing canine gastric dilatation-volvulus. Nevertheless, since this study used experimental models, its usefulness should be evaluated in future cases.

Comparative analysis of pharmacological treatments with N-acetyl-DL-leucine (Tanganil) and its two isomers (N-acetyl-L-leucine and N-acetyl-D-leucine) on vestibular compensation: Behavioral investigation in the cat.

PubMed

Tighilet, Brahim; Leonard, Jacques; Bernard-Demanze, Laurence; Lacour, Michel

2015-12-15

Head roll tilt, postural imbalance and spontaneous nystagmus are the main static vestibular deficits observed after an acute unilateral vestibular loss (UVL). In the UVL cat model, these deficits are fully compensated over 6 weeks as the result of central vestibular compensation. N-Acetyl-dl-leucine is a drug prescribed in clinical practice for the symptomatic treatment of acute UVL patients. The present study investigated the effects of N-acetyl-dl-leucine on the behavioral recovery after unilateral vestibular neurectomy (UVN) in the cat, and compared the effects of each of its two isomers N-acetyl-L-leucine and N-acetyl-D-leucine. Efficacy of these three drug treatments has been evaluated with respect to a placebo group (UVN+saline water) on the global sensorimotor activity (observation grids), the posture control (support surface measurement), the locomotor balance (maximum performance at the rotating beam test), and the spontaneous vestibular nystagmus (recorded in the light). Whatever the parameters tested, the behavioral recovery was strongly and significantly accelerated under pharmacological treatments with N-acetyl-dl-leucine and N-acetyl-L-leucine. In contrast, the N-acetyl-D-leucine isomer had no effect at all on the behavioral recovery, and animals of this group showed the same recovery profile as those receiving a placebo. It is concluded that the N-acetyl-L-leucine isomer is the active part of the racemate component since it induces a significant acceleration of the vestibular compensation process similar (and even better) to that observed under treatment with the racemate component only. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Arsenate-induced maternal glucose intolerance and neural tube defects in a mouse model

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

Hill, Denise S.; Wlodarczyk, Bogdan J.; Mitchell, Laura E.

Background: Epidemiological studies have linked environmental arsenic (As) exposure to increased type 2 diabetes risk. Periconceptional hyperglycemia is a significant risk factor for neural tube defects (NTDs), the second most common structural birth defect. A suspected teratogen, arsenic (As) induces NTDs in laboratory animals. Objectives: We investigated whether maternal glucose homeostasis disruption was responsible for arsenate-induced NTDs in a well-established dosing regimen used in studies of arsenic's teratogenicity in early neurodevelopment. Methods: We evaluated maternal intraperitoneal (IP) exposure to As 9.6 mg/kg (as sodium arsenate) in LM/Bc/Fnn mice for teratogenicity and disruption of maternal plasma glucose and insulin levels. Selectedmore » compounds (insulin pellet, sodium selenate (SS), N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), L-methionine (L-Met), N-tert-Butyl-{alpha}-phenylnitrone (PBN)) were investigated for their potential to mitigate arsenate's effects. Results: Arsenate caused significant glucose elevation during an IP glucose tolerance test (IPGTT). Insulin levels were not different between arsenate and control dams before (arsenate, 0.55 ng/dl; control, 0.48 ng/dl) or after glucose challenge (arsenate, 1.09 ng/dl; control, 0.81 ng/dl). HOMA-IR index was higher for arsenate (3.9) vs control (2.5) dams (p = 0.0260). Arsenate caused NTDs (100%, p < 0.0001). Insulin pellet and NAC were the most successful rescue agents, reducing NTD rates to 45% and 35%. Conclusions: IPGTT, insulin assay, and HOMA-IR results suggest a modest failure of glucose stimulated insulin secretion and insulin resistance characteristic of glucose intolerance. Insulin's success in preventing arsenate-induced NTDs provides evidence that these arsenate-induced NTDs are secondary to elevated maternal glucose. The NAC rescue, which did not restore maternal glucose or insulin levels, suggests oxidative disruption plays a role.« less

Blood lead levels in pregnant women of high and low socioeconomic status in Mexico City.

PubMed Central

Farias, P; Borja-Aburto, V H; Rios, C; Hertz-Picciotto, I; Rojas-Lopez, M; Chavez-Ayala, R

1996-01-01

This study examined the determinants of blood lead (BPb) in 513 pregnant women in Mexico City: 311 from public hospital prenatal clinics, representing primarily women of low socioeconomic status (SES), and 202 from private hospitals, primarily women of high SES. Overall, BPb levels ranged from 1.38 to 29 micrograms/dl, with geometric means of 6.7 and 11.12 micrograms/dl for women from private and public hospitals, respectively. The crude geometric means difference obtained by t-test was 4.42 (p < 0.001). BPb was measured from January 1994 to August 1995 and showed higher levels during fall and winter and lower levels during spring and summer. The main BPb determinants were the use of lead-glazed ceramics in women from public hospitals and season of the year in women from private hospitals. Consumption of tortillas (corn bread rich in calcium) decreased BPb levels in the lower SES group, but the relationship was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Consumption of milk products significantly (p < 0.05) reduced BPb levels in the higher SES group. In 112 women whose diets were deficient in calcium, taking calcium supplements lowered their blood lead levels about 7 micrograms/dl. A predictive model fitted to these data, using the strongest predictors plus gestational age, showed a difference of 14 micrograms/dl between the best and worst scenarios in women from public hospitals. Avoiding use of lead-glazed ceramics, consuming diets rich in calcium, and, if needed, taking calcium supplements, would be expected to result in substantial lowering of BPb, especially in pregnant women of low socioeconomic status. Images Figure 1. Figure 2. PMID:8930548

Comparison of postoperative pain and inflammation reaction in dogs undergoing preventive laparoscopic-assisted and incisional gastropexy

PubMed Central

HARAGUCHI, Tomoya; KIMURA, Shiho; ITOH, Harumichi; NISHIKAWA, Shimpei; HIYAMA, Masato; TANI, Kenji; ISERI, Toshie; ITOH, Yoshiki; NAKAICHI, Munekazu; TAURA, Yasuho; ITAMOTO, Kazuhito

2017-01-01

This study compared the effects of postoperative pain and inflammation reaction after preventive laparoscopic-assisted gastropexy (LAG) and incisional gastropexy (IG) in 10 clinically normal Beagles. Surgical time, incision length, visual analog scale (VAS) score, University of Melbourne Pain Scale (UMPS) score, and plasma C-reactive protein (CRP), plasma cortisol (COR), and serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels were evaluated. The VAS and UMPS scores and COR and IL-6 levels were recorded at 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 18 and 24 hr after surgery. CRP level was recorded at 12, 24 and 48 hr after surgery. The VAS and UMPS scores showed no significant intergroup differences. Compared to IG, LAG had significantly lower surgical time (45 ± 9.91 min vs 64 ± 5.30 min; P<0.05), incision length (46 ± 8.21 mm vs 129 ± 19.49 mm; P<0.05), CRP level (12 hr after surgery; 4.58 ± 1.58 mg/dl vs 12.4 ± 1.34 mg/dl; P<0.01), and COR level (1 hr after surgery; 10.79 ± 3.07 µg/dl vs 15.9 ± 3.77 µg/dl; P<0.05). IL-6 levels showed no significant intergroup differences at any time point. However, LAG resulted in lower IL-6 levels than did IG at all postoperative time points. Neither procedure resulted in significant surgical complications. LAG produced lower surgical stress than did IG, suggesting that LAG is a safe, minimally invasive, and highly useful technique for preventing canine gastric dilatation-volvulus. Nevertheless, since this study used experimental models, its usefulness should be evaluated in future cases. PMID:28717065

TRANSDIAGNOSTIC DIMENSIONS OF ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION MODERATE MOTIVATION-RELATED BRAIN NETWORKS DURING GOAL MAINTENANCE

PubMed Central

Spielberg, Jeffrey M.; Miller, Gregory A.; Warren, Stacie L.; Sutton, Bradley P.; Banich, Marie; Heller, Wendy

2015-01-01

Background Advancing research on the etiology, prevention, and treatment of psychopathology requires the field to move beyond modular conceptualizations of neural dysfunction toward understanding disturbance in key brain networks. Although some studies of anxiety and depression have begun doing so, they typically suffer from several drawbacks, including: (1) a categorical approach ignoring transdiagnostic processes, (2) failure to account for substantial anxiety and depression comorbidity, (3) examination of networks at rest, which overlooks disruption manifesting only when networks are challenged. Accordingly, the present study examined relationships between transdiagnostic dimensions of anxiety/depression and patterns of functional connectivity while goal maintenance was challenged. Methods Participants (n = 179, unselected community members and undergraduates selected to be high/low on anxiety/depression) performed a task in which goal maintenance was challenged (color-word Stroop) while fMRI data were collected. Analyses examined moderation by anxiety/depression of condition-dependent coupling between regions of dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) previously associated with approach and avoidance motivation and amygdala/orbitofrontal cortex (OFC). Results Anxious arousal was positively associated with amygdala↔right dlPFC coupling. Depression was positively associated with OFC↔right dlPFC coupling and negatively associated with OFC↔left dlPFC coupling. Conclusions Findings advance the field toward an integrative model of the neural instantiation of anxiety/depression by identifying specific, distinct dysfunctions associated with anxiety and depression in networks important for maintaining approach and avoidance goals. Specifically, findings shed light on potential neural mechanisms involved in attentional biases in anxiety and valuation biases in depression and underscore the importance of examining transdiagnostic dimensions of anxiety/depression while networks are challenged. PMID:24753242

A novel injectable in situ forming poly-DL-lactide and DL-lactide/glycolide implant containing lipospheres for controlled drug delivery.

PubMed

Yehia, Soad A; Elshafeey, Ahmed H; Elsayed, Ibrahim

2012-06-01

One of the greatest challenges in in situ forming implant (ISFI) systems by polymer precipitation is the large burst release during the first 1-24 hours after implant injection. The aim of this study was to decrease the burst-release effect of a water-soluble model drug, donepezil HCl, with a molecular weight of 415.96 Da, from in situ forming implants using a novel in situ implant containing lipospheres (ISILs). In situ implant suspensions were prepared by dispersing cetyl alcohol and glyceryl stearate lipospheres in a solution of poly-DL-lactide (PDL) or DL-lactide/glycolide copolymer (PDLG). Also, in situ implant solutions were prepared using different concentrations of PDL or PDLG solutions in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP). Triacetin and Pluronic L121 were used to modify the release pattern of donepezil from the in situ implant solutions. In vitro release, rheological measurement, and injectability measurement were used to evaluate the prepared in situ implant formulae. It was found that ISIL decreased the burst effect as well as the rate and extent of drug release, compared to lipospheres, PDL, and PDLG in situ implant. The amount of drug released in the first day was 37.75, 34.99, 48.57, 76.3, and 84.82% for ISIL in 20% PDL (IL-1), ISIL in 20% PDLG (IL-2), lipospheres (L), 20% PDL ISFI (I5), and 20% PDLG ISFI (I8), respectively. The prepared systems showed Newtonian flow behavior. ISIL (IL-1 and IL-2) had a flow rate of 1.94 and 1.40 mL/min, respectively. This study shows the potential of using in situ implants containing lipospheres in controlling the burst effect of ISFI.