Quantitative comparison of bright field and annular bright field imaging modes for characterization of oxygen octahedral tilts

DOE PAGES

Kim, Young-Min; Pennycook, Stephen J.; Borisevich, Albina Y.

2017-04-29

Octahedral tilt behavior is increasingly recognized as an important contributing factor to the physical behavior of perovskite oxide materials and especially their interfaces, necessitating the development of high-resolution methods of tilt mapping. There are currently two major approaches for quantitative imaging of tilts in scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), bright field (BF) and annular bright field (ABF). In this study, we show that BF STEM can be reliably used for measurements of oxygen octahedral tilts. While optimal conditions for BF imaging are more restricted with respect to sample thickness and defocus, we find that BF imaging with an aberration-corrected microscopemore » with the accelerating voltage of 300 kV gives us the most accurate quantitative measurement of the oxygen column positions. Using the tilted perovskite structure of BiFeO 3 (BFO) as our test sample, we simulate BF and ABF images in a wide range of conditions, identifying the optimal imaging conditions for each mode. Finally, we show that unlike ABF imaging, BF imaging remains directly quantitatively interpretable for a wide range of the specimen mistilt, suggesting that it should be preferable to the ABF STEM imaging for quantitative structure determination.« less

Modeling Parkinson's disease falls associated with brainstem cholinergic systems decline.

PubMed

Kucinski, Aaron; Sarter, Martin

2015-04-01

In addition to the primary disease-defining symptoms, approximately half of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) suffer from postural instability, impairments in gait control and a propensity for falls. Consistent with evidence from patients, we previously demonstrated that combined striatal dopamine (DA) and basal forebrain (BF) cholinergic cell loss causes falls in rats traversing dynamic surfaces. Because evidence suggests that degeneration of brainstem cholinergic neurons arising from the pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN) also contributes to impaired gait and falls, here we assessed the effects of selective cholinergic PPN lesions in combination with striatal DA loss or BF cholinergic cells loss as well as losses in all 3 regions. Results indicate that all combination losses that included the BF cholinergic system slowed traversal and increased slips and falls. However, the performance of rats with losses in all 3 regions (PPN, BF, and DA) was not more severely impaired than following combined BF cholinergic and striatal DA lesions. These results confirm the hypothesis that BF cholinergic-striatal disruption of attentional-motor interactions is a primary source of falls. Additional losses of PPN cholinergic neurons may worsen posture and gait control in situations not captured by the current testing conditions. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).

Time-Dependent Behavior of Microvascular Blood Flow and Oxygenation: A Predictor of Functional Outcomes.

PubMed

Kuliga, Katarzyna Z; Gush, Rodney; Clough, Geraldine F; Chipperfield, Andrew John

2018-05-01

This study investigates the time-dependent behaviour and algorithmic complexity of low-frequency periodic oscillations in blood flux (BF) and oxygenation signals from the microvasculature. Microvascular BF and oxygenation (OXY: oxyHb, deoxyHb, totalHb, and SO 2 %) was recorded from 15 healthy young adult males using combined laser Doppler fluximetry and white light spectroscopy with local skin temperature clamped to 33  °C and during local thermal hyperaemia (LTH) at 43 °C. Power spectral density of the BF and OXY signals was evaluated within the frequency range (0.0095-1.6 Hz). Signal complexity was determined using the Lempel-Ziv (LZ) algorithm. Fold increase in BF during LTH was 15.6 (10.3, 22.8) and in OxyHb 4.8 (3.5, 5.9) (median, range). All BF and OXY signals exhibited multiple oscillatory components with clear differences in signal power distribution across frequency bands at 33 and 43 °C. Significant reduction in the intrinsic variability and complexity of the microvascular signals during LTH was found, with mean LZ complexity of BF and OxyHb falling by 25% and 49%, respectively ( ). These results provide corroboration that in human skin microvascular blood flow and oxygenation are influenced by multiple time-varying oscillators that adapt to local influences and become more predictable during increased haemodynamic flow. Recent evidence strongly suggests that the inability of microvascular networks to adapt to an imposed stressor is symptomatic of disease risk which might be assessed via BF and OXY via the combination signal analysis techniques described here.

Accuracy of Anthropometric Equations for Estimating Body Fat in Professional Male Soccer Players Compared with DXA

PubMed Central

López-Taylor, Juan R.; Jiménez-Alvarado, Juan Antonio; Villegas-Balcázar, Marisol; Jáuregui-Ulloa, Edtna E.; Torres-Naranjo, Francisco

2018-01-01

Background There are several published anthropometric equations to estimate body fat percentage (BF%), and this may prompt uncertainty about their application. Purpose To analyze the accuracy of several anthropometric equations (developed in athletic [AT] and nonathletic [NAT] populations) that estimate BF% comparing them with DXA. Methods We evaluated 131 professional male soccer players (body mass: 73.2 ± 8.0 kg; height: 177.5 ± 5.8 cm; DXA BF% [median, 25th–75th percentile]: 14.0, 11.9–16.4%) aged 18 to 37 years. All subjects were evaluated with anthropometric measurements and a whole body DXA scan. BF% was estimated through 14 AT and 17 NAT anthropometric equations and compared with the measured DXA BF%. Mean differences and 95% limits of agreement were calculated for those anthropometric equations without significant differences with DXA. Results Five AT and seven NAT anthropometric equations did not differ significantly with DXA. From these, Oliver's and Civar's (AT) and Ball's and Wilmore's (NAT) equations showed the highest agreement with DXA. Their 95% limits of agreement ranged from −3.9 to 2.3%, −4.8 to 1.8%, −3.4 to 3.1%, and −3.9 to 3.0%, respectively. Conclusion Oliver's, Ball's, Civar's, and Wilmore's equations were the best to estimate BF% accurately compared with DXA in professional male soccer players. PMID:29736402

Percentage body fat ranges associated with metabolic syndrome risk: results based on the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1988-1994).

PubMed

Zhu, Shankuan; Wang, ZiMian; Shen, Wei; Heymsfield, Steven B; Heshka, Stanley

2003-08-01

Increasing attention has focused on the association between body fatness and related metabolic risk factors. The quantitative link between percentage body fat (%BF) and the risk of metabolic syndrome is unknown. The objectives were to determine the risk [odds ratios (ORs)] of metabolic syndrome based on %BF in black and white men and women in the United States and to provide corresponding ranges of %BF associated with a risk equivalent to body mass index (BMI; in kg/m(2)). The subjects were participants in the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and were divided into those with and without the metabolic syndrome. OR equations were derived from logistic regression models for %BF and BMI, with the 25th percentile in the study population as the reference. Ranges were developed by associating %BF with the equivalent risk of metabolic syndrome based on established BMI cutoffs. Four sets (men, women, black, and white) of OR curves were generated for %BF and for BMI by using data from 8259 adults. The ORs for metabolic syndrome were lower in blacks than in whites at any given %BF or BMI. The developed cutoffs for %BF differed between men and women but showed only small race and age effects. A simplified set of sex-specific %BF ranges for the risk of metabolic syndrome were developed. The risk of metabolic syndrome can be established from measured %BF by using either the developed OR curves or %BF thresholds at traditional BMI cutoffs. This information should prove useful in both clinical and research settings.

Inverted BMI rather than BMI is a better proxy for percentage of body fat.

PubMed

Nevill, Alan M; Stavropoulos-Kalinoglou, Antonios; Metsios, Giorgos S; Koutedakis, Yiannis; Holder, Roger L; Kitas, George D; Mohammed, Mohammed A

2011-11-01

Percentage of body fat (BF%) is a known risk factor for a range of healthcare problems but is difficult to measure. An easy to measure proxy is the weight/height(2) ratio known as the Body Mass Index (BMI kg/m(2)). However, BMI does have some inherent weaknesses which are readily overcome by its inverse iBMI (1000/BMI, cm(2)/kg). The association between BF% and both BMI and iBMI together with their distributional properties was explored using previously published data from healthy (n = 2993) and diseased populations (n = 298). BMI is skewed whereas iBMI is symmetrical and so is better approximated by the normal distribution. The relationship between BF% and BMI is curved, but that of iBMI and BF% is linear and thus iBMI explains more of the variation in BF% than BMI. For example a unit increase in BMI for a group of thin women represents an increase of 2.3% in BF, but for obese women this represents only a 0.3% increase in BF-a 7-fold difference. The curvature stems from body mass being the numerator in BMI but the denominator in BF% resulting in a form of hyperbolic curve which is not the case with iBMI. Furthermore, BMI and iBMI have different relationships (interaction) with BF% for men and women, but these differences are less marked with iBMI. Overall, these characteristics of iBMI favour its use over BMI, especially in statistical models.

Determination of the solubility parameter of ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate by inverse gas chromatography.

PubMed

Ma, Xiaohong; Wang, Qiang; Li, Xiaoping; Tang, Jun; Zhang, Zhengfang

2015-11-01

Thermodynamic properties of ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([BMIM] BF4) were determined via inverse gas chromatography (IGC). Two groups of solvents with different chemical natures and polarities were used to obtain information about [BMIM] BF4-solvent interactions. The specific retention volume, molar heat of sorption, weight fraction activity coefficient, Flory-Huggins interaction parameter as well as solubility parameter were also determined in a temperature range of 333 - 373 K. The results showed that the selected solvents n-C10 to n-C12, carbon tetrachloride, cyclohexane and toluene were poor solvents for [BMIM] BF4, while dichloromethane, acetone, chloroform, methyl acetate, ethanol and methanol were favorite solvents for [BMIM] BF4. In addition, the solubility parameter of [ BMIM] BF4 was determined as 23.39 (J/cm3)0.5 by the extrapolation at 298 K. The experiment proved that IGC was a simple and accurate method to obtain the thermodynamic properties of ionic liquids. This study could be used as a reference to the application and research of the ionic liquids.

Quantitative Detection of Viable Bifidobacterium bifidum BF-1 Cells in Human Feces by Using Propidium Monoazide and Strain-Specific Primers

PubMed Central

Fujimoto, Junji

2013-01-01

We developed a PCR-based method to detect and quantify viable Bifidobacterium bifidum BF-1 cells in human feces. This method (PMA-qPCR) uses propidium monoazide (PMA) to distinguish viable from dead cells and quantitative PCR using a BF-1-specific primer set designed from the results of randomly amplified polymorphic DNA analysis. During long-term culture (10 days), the number of viable BF-1 cells detected by counting the number of CFU on modified MRS agar, by measuring the ATP contents converted to CFU, and by using PMA-qPCR decreased from about 1010 to 106 cells/ml; in contrast, the total number of (viable and dead) BF-1 cells detected by counting 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindolee (DAPI)-stained cells and by using qPCR without PMA and reverse transcription-qPCR remained constant. The number of viable BF-1 cells in fecal samples detected by using PMA-qPCR was highly and significantly correlated with the number of viable BF-1 cells added to the fecal samples, within the range of 105.3 to 1010.3 cells/g feces (wet weight) (r > 0.99, P < 0.001). After 12 healthy subjects ingested 1010.3 to 1011.0 CFU of BF-1 in a fermented milk product daily for 28 days, 104.5 ± 1.5 (mean ± standard deviation [SD]) BF-1 CFU/g was detected in fecal samples by using strain-specific selective agar; in contrast, 106.2 ± 0.4 viable BF-1 cells/g were detected by using PMA-qPCR, and a total of 107.6 ± 0.7 BF-1 cells/g were detected by using qPCR without PMA. Thus, the number of viable BF-1 cells detected by PMA-qPCR was about 50 times higher (P < 0.01) than that detected by the culture-dependent method. We conclude that strain-specific PMA-qPCR can be used to quickly and accurately evaluate viable BF-1 in feces. PMID:23354719

Prostate-specific antigen density is predictive of outcome in suboptimal prostate seed brachytherapy.

PubMed

Benzaquen, David; Delouya, Guila; Ménard, Cynthia; Barkati, Maroie; Taussky, Daniel

In prostate seed brachytherapy, a D 90 of <130 Gy is an accepted predictive factor for biochemical failure (BF). We studied whether there is a subpopulation that does not need additional treatment after a suboptimal permanent seed brachytherapy implantation. A total of 486 patients who had either BF or a minimum followup of 48 months without BF were identified. BF was defined according to the Phoenix definition (nadir prostate-specific antigen + 2). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed, adjusting for known prognostic factors such as D 90 and prostate-specific antigen density (PSAD) of ≥0.15 ng/mL/cm 3 , to evaluate their ability to predict BF. Median followup for patients without BF was 72 months (interquartile range 56-96). BF-free recurrence rate at 5 years was 95% and at 8 years 88%. In univariate analysis, PSAD and cancer of the prostate risk assessment score were predictive of BF. On multivariate analysis, none of the factors remained significant. The best prognosis had patients with a low PSAD (<0.15 ng/mL/cm 3 ) and an optimal implant at 30 days after implantation (as defined by D 90  ≥ 130 Gy) compared to patients with both factors unfavorable (p = 0.006). A favorable PSAD was associate with a good prognosis, independently of the D 90 (<130 Gy vs. ≥130 Gy, p = 0.7). Patients with a PSAD of <0.15 ng/mL/cm 3 have little risk of BF, even in the case of a suboptimal implant. These results need to be validated in other patients' cohorts. Copyright © 2016 American Brachytherapy Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Modeling for High Rate Pulverized Coal Injection (PCI) into the Blast Furnace

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

Dr. Chenn Zhou

2008-10-15

Pulverized coal injection (PCI) into the blast furnace (BF) has been recognized as an effective way to decrease the coke and total energy consumption along with minimization of environmental impacts. However, increasing the amount of coal injected into the BF is currently limited by the lack of knowledge of some issues related to the process. It is therefore important to understand the complex physical and chemical phenomena in the PCI process. Due to the difficulty in attaining trus BF measurements, Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling has been identified as a useful technology to provide such knowledge. CFD simulation is powerfulmore » for providing detailed information on flow properties and performing parametric studies for process design and optimization. In this project, comprehensive 3-D CFD models have been developed to simulate the PCI process under actual furnace conditions. These models provide raceway size and flow property distributions. The results have provided guidance for optimizing the PCI process.« less

Breast-feeding trends and the breast-feeding promotion programme in the Philippines.

PubMed

Williamson, N E

1990-03-01

Breastfeeding (BF) duration and incidence have declined in the Philippines since 1973, particularly among urban, better-educated and higher income groups. As more and more women move into these modern groups, BF may continue to decline, making attempts to decrease fertility more difficult. The National Movement for the Promotion of Breastfeeding (NMPB) seeks to overcome the declines by encouraging a wide range of BF promotion activities including improving hospital practices and implementing a 5-year plan. In 1988, the 2nd 5 years of the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund support for BF promotion started as part of a program to strengthen health services for child survival. Also in 1988, the Ministry of Health directed private hospitals to have rooming-in. In 1984, BF promotion messages began in the mass media. In 1983, NMPB was set up. The NMPB is housed in the Department of Public Health and has 30 member agencies: 14 governmental organizations and 25 nongovernmental agencies/institutions. From 1982-84 a longitudinal study on decision making regrading infant feeding practices was started. A hospital-based BF promotion program was started in the city of Baguio in the 70s. "Rooming-in" is required in government facilities, but there is a need for education programs for women so that they will continue their healthy practices at home. Challenges of the Philippines BF promotion program corner 4 areas: 1) health facilities; 2) information, education, and communication; 3) training; and 4) outreach. Research activities for the future include: 1) continued monitoring of patterns and trends of BF, including evaluation of the 1988 national survey; 2) analysis of the impact of "rooming-in" programs; 3) studies on the cost effectiveness of different strategies for increasing BF incidence and length and modifying BF practices and beliefs; 4) testing of strategies for helping working women to breastfeed; 5) research on obstacles to BF in private hospitals; and 6) studies on the nature and timing of starting contraception among BF women.

Nature of ferroelectric to paraelectric phase transition in multiferroic 0.8BiFeO3-0.2Pb(Fe1/2Nb1/2)O3 ceramics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patel, Jay Prakash; Singh, Anar; Pandey, Dhananjai

2010-05-01

We present here the results of high temperature powder x-ray diffraction study on 0.8BiFeO3-0.2Pb(Fe1/2Nb1/2)O3, which is isostructural with the well known multiferroic BiFeO3 (BF). It is shown that the room temperature ferroelectric phase of 0.8BF-0.2PFN in the R3c space group transforms to the paraelectric/paraelastic cubic (Pm3¯m) phase directly without any intermediate "β" phase reported in the literature for pure BF. This transition is of first order type as confirmed by the coexistence of R3c and Pm3¯m phases over a 100 K range and discontinuous change in the unit cell volume.

Noncontact diffuse optical assessment of blood flow changes in head and neck free tissue transfer flaps (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Chong; Radabaugh, Jeffrey P.; Aouad, Rony K.; Lin, Yu; Gal, Thomas J.; Patel, Amit B.; Valentino, Joseph; Shang, Yu; Yu, Guoqiang

2016-02-01

Head and neck cancer accounts for 3 to 5% of all cancers in the United States. Primary or salvage surgeries are extensive and often lead to major head and neck defects that require complex reconstructions with local, regional, or free tissue transfer flaps. Knowledge of tissue blood flow (BF) changes after free tissue transfer may enable surgeons to predict the failure of flap thrombosis at an early stage. This study used our recently developed noncontact diffuse correlation spectroscopy to monitor dynamic BF changes in free flaps without getting in contact with the targeted tissue. Eight free flaps were elevated in patients with head and neck cancer; one of the flaps failed. Multiple BF measurements probing the transferred tissue were performed during and post the surgical operation. Postoperative BF values were normalized to the intraoperative baselines (assigning '1') for the calculation of relative BF change (rBF). The rBF changes over the seven successful flaps were 1.89 +/- 0.15, 2.26 +/- 0.13, and 2.43 +/- 0.13 (mean +/- standard error) respectively on postoperative days 2, 4, and 7. These postoperative values were significantly higher than the intraoperative baseline values (p < 0.001), indicating a gradual recovery of flap vascularity after the tissue transfer. By contrast, rBF changes observed from the unsuccessful flap were 1.14 and 1.34 respectively on postoperative days 2 and 4, indicating a less flow recovery. Measurement of BF recovery after flap anastomosis holds the potential to act early to salvage ischemic flaps.

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

Borodin, Oleg; Price, David L.; Aoun, Bachir

The influence of water on the structure of a prototype ionic liquid (IL) 1-octyl-3-methyimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (C8mimBF4) is examined in the IL-rich regime using high-energy x-ray diffraction (HEXRD) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. A many-body polarizable force field APPLE&P was developed for C8mimBF4 water mixture. It predicts structure factors of pure IL and IL-water mixture in excellent agreement with the HEXRD experiments. The MD results provide detailed insights into the structural changes from the partial structure factors, 2-D projections of the simulation box and 3-D distribution functions. Water partitioning with IL and its competition with BF4- for complexing the imidazolium ringsmore » was examined. The added water molecules occupy a diffuse coordination shell around the imidazolium ring but are not present around the alkyl tail. The strong coordination of the fluorine atoms of the BF4- anions to the imidazolium ring is not significantly changed by the addition of water. These results are consistent with the very small differences in the average structure between the pure IL and the mixture.« less

Analysis and comparison of biotreatment of air polluted with ethanol using biofiltration and biotrickling filtration.

PubMed

Morotti, Karine; Ramirez, Antonio Avalos; Jones, J Peter; Heitz, Michèle

2011-12-01

This study analyses the performance of ethanol biofiltration with percolation (biotrickling filtration, BTF) comparing to a conventional biofilter (biofiltration, BF). Two biofilters packed with clay balls were operated in a range of inlet concentrations of ethanol in the air varying from 0.47 to 2.36 g m(-3). For both the BF and BTF, the specific growth rate (mu) and the elimination capacity (EC) decreased with the ethanol inlet concentration, presenting a kinetic of substrate inhibition. A Haldane-type model was adjusted for both biofilters in order to model both EC and mu as a function of the ethanol inlet concentration in the gas. The maximum EC was similar for both biofilters, at around 46 g m(-3) h(-1), whereas the maximum mu was 0.0057 h(-1) for the BF and 0.0103 h(-1) for the BTF. The maximum of ethanol removed, occurred at the lowest inlet concentration of (0.47 gm(-3)), and reached 86% for the BF and 74% for the BTF.

Sensitivity of electrospray molecular dynamics simulations to long-range Coulomb interaction models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mehta, Neil A.; Levin, Deborah A.

2018-03-01

Molecular dynamics (MD) electrospray simulations of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (EMIM-BF4) ion liquid were performed with the goal of evaluating the influence of long-range Coulomb models on ion emission characteristics. The direct Coulomb (DC), shifted force Coulomb sum (SFCS), and particle-particle particle-mesh (PPPM) long-range Coulomb models were considered in this work. The DC method with a sufficiently large cutoff radius was found to be the most accurate approach for modeling electrosprays, but, it is computationally expensive. The Coulomb potential energy modeled by the DC method in combination with the radial electric fields were found to be necessary to generate the Taylor cone. The differences observed between the SFCS and the DC in terms of predicting the total ion emission suggest that the former should not be used in MD electrospray simulations. Furthermore, the common assumption of domain periodicity was observed to be detrimental to the accuracy of the capillary-based electrospray simulations.

Sensitivity of electrospray molecular dynamics simulations to long-range Coulomb interaction models.

PubMed

Mehta, Neil A; Levin, Deborah A

2018-03-01

Molecular dynamics (MD) electrospray simulations of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (EMIM-BF_{4}) ion liquid were performed with the goal of evaluating the influence of long-range Coulomb models on ion emission characteristics. The direct Coulomb (DC), shifted force Coulomb sum (SFCS), and particle-particle particle-mesh (PPPM) long-range Coulomb models were considered in this work. The DC method with a sufficiently large cutoff radius was found to be the most accurate approach for modeling electrosprays, but, it is computationally expensive. The Coulomb potential energy modeled by the DC method in combination with the radial electric fields were found to be necessary to generate the Taylor cone. The differences observed between the SFCS and the DC in terms of predicting the total ion emission suggest that the former should not be used in MD electrospray simulations. Furthermore, the common assumption of domain periodicity was observed to be detrimental to the accuracy of the capillary-based electrospray simulations.

Effects of dam breed and dietary source of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on the growth and carcass characteristics of lambs sourced from hill sheep flocks.

PubMed

Annett, R W; Carson, A F; Dawson, L E R; Kilpatrick, D J

2011-05-01

The objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of dietary lipid source on the growth and carcass characteristics of lambs sourced from a range of crossbred hill ewes. Over a 2-year period, 466 lambs representing the progeny of Scottish Blackface (BF × BF), Swaledale (SW) × BF, North Country Cheviot (CH) × BF, Lleyn (LL) × BF and Texel (T) × BF ewes were sourced from six commercial hill flocks and finished on one of four diets: grass pellets (GP), cereal-based concentrate (CC), CC enriched with oilseed rape (CR) and CC enriched with fish oil (CF). Dry matter intake (DMI) was highest (P < 0.001) in lambs offered GP; however, carcass weight gain (CWG) and feed conversion efficiency were higher (P < 0.001) in lambs fed concentrate-based diets. For lambs offered concentrate-based diets, DMI and live weight gain were lower (P < 0.001) for CF than CC or CR. Lambs with T × BF dams achieved a higher (P < 0.05) daily CWG and CWG/kg DMI than BF × BF, SW × BF or LL × BF dams. When lambs were slaughtered at fat score 3, CH × BF, LL × BF and T × BF dams increased carcass weight by 0.8 to 1.4 kg (P < 0.001) and conformation score (CS) by 0.2 to 0.4 units (P < 0.001) compared with BF × BF or SW × BF dams. However, breed effects on carcass conformation were reduced by 50% when lambs were slaughtered at a constant carcass weight. Diets CC and CR increased carcass weight by 0.8 to 1.6 kg (P < 0.001) and CS by 0.1 to 0.3 units (P < 0.001) compared with GP and CF. Both, dam breed and dietary effects on carcass conformation were associated with an increase (P < 0.001) in shoulder width of the lambs. Lambs fed CF and slaughtered at a constant carcass weight had more subcutaneous fat over the Longissumus dorsi (P < 0.05), Iliocostalis thoracis (P < 0.001) and Obliquus internus abdominis (P < 0.001) compared with those fed CC. However, these effects were removed when lambs were slaughtered at a constant fat score. At both endpoints, lambs from T × BF dams contained less (P < 0.05) perinephric and retroperitoneal fat than SW × BF or LL × BF dams fed GP or CC, respectively. The results from this study show that using crossbred ewes sired by CH, LL or T sires will increase carcass weight and improve carcass conformation of lambs sourced from hill flocks. Inclusion of oilseed rape in lamb finishing diets had only minor effects on performance compared with a standard CC but feeding fish oil or GP impacted negatively on lamb growth and carcass quality.

The Personality Inventory for DSM-5 Brief Form: Evidence for Reliability and Construct Validity in a Sample of Community-Dwelling Italian Adolescents.

PubMed

Fossati, Andrea; Somma, Antonella; Borroni, Serena; Markon, Kristian E; Krueger, Robert F

2017-07-01

To assess the reliability and construct validity of the Personality Inventory for DSM-5 Brief Form (PID-5-BF) among adolescents, 877 Italian high school students were administered the PID-5-BF. Participants were administered also the Measure of Disordered Personality Functioning (MDPF) as a criterion measure. In the full sample, Cronbach's alpha values for the PID-5-BF scales ranged from .59 (Detachment) to .77 (Psychoticism); in addition, all PID-5-BF scales showed mean interitem correlation values in the .22 to .40 range. Cronbach's alpha values for the PID-5-BF total score was .83 (mean interitem r = .16). Although 2-month test-retest reliability could be assessed only in a small ( n = 42) subsample of participants, all PID-5-BF scale scores showed adequate temporal stability, as indexed by intraclass r values ranging from .78 (Negative Affectivity) to .97 (Detachment), all ps <.001. Exploratory structural equation modeling analyses provided at least moderate support for the a priori model of PID-5-BF items. Multiple regression analyses showed that PID-5-BF scales predicted a nonnegligible amount of variance in MDPF Non-Cooperativeness, adjusted R 2 = .17, p < .001, and Non-Coping scales, adjusted R 2 = .32, p < .001. Similarly, the PID-5-BF total score was a significant predictor of both MDPF Non-Coping, and Non-Cooperativeness scales.

Prenatal Exposure to Perfluoroalkyl Substances and Body Fatness in Girls

PubMed Central

Calafat, Antonia M.; Holmes, Adrianne K.; Marcus, Michele; Northstone, Kate; Flanders, W. Dana; Kato, Kayoko; Taylor, Ethel V.

2017-01-01

Abstract Background: Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are used in surface coatings that resist stains, grease, and water. Methods: The association between in utero PFAS exposure and girls' body fatness at age 9 was analyzed in The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (UK). Maternal serum [median 15 weeks: interquartile range (IQR) 10 and 28 weeks of gestation] was analyzed for perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoate (PFOA), perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS), and perfluorononanoate (PFNA). Body composition was measured by dual X-ray emission absorptiometry, and percent total body fat (%BF) was calculated. Associations between PFASs and body fatness were modeled by multivariable linear regression. Results: Among 359 girls, median (IQR) %BF was 27.5 (IQR 21.7–34.6). Median (IQR) concentrations (all ng/mL) were 3.7 (2.9–4.8) for PFOA, 19.8 (15.0–25.3) for PFOS, 1.6 (1.3–2.2) for PFHxS, and 0.5 (0.4–0.7) for PFNA. Maternal PFAS concentrations were not significantly associated with daughters' total %BF overall. Mothers' educational status modified associations for PFOA and PFOS with %BF (P-interactions: 0.005 and 0.02, respectively). %BF was higher [1.4%; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.3 to 2.5] for each one unit (ng/mL) higher PFOA among girls with mothers in the middle education group, but lower (−0.6%; 95% CI: −1.12 to −0.04) for the corresponding comparison among girls with mothers with the highest education. %BF was lower (−0.2%; 95% CI: −0.3 to −0.1) for each one unit higher PFOS among girls with the most educated mothers. Conclusions: Prenatal exposure to PFOA and PFOS was associated with girls' %BF within some strata of maternal education status. PFHxS and PFNA were not associated with %BF. PMID:28128969

Effects of adding LiBF4 on the glass-transition kinetics of 1,2-propanediol

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Terashima, Yukio; Takeda, Kiyoshi

2017-11-01

By applying an isoconversional method to differential-scanning calorimetry (DSC) data, we have discovered that the addition of LiBF4 significantly affects the activation energy Eα of the glass transition of 1,2-propanediol. Depending upon its concentration, the dynamics of the glass transition are affected more by adding LiBF4 at an early stage of the glass-to-liquid transition rather than at later stages. As the mole fraction x of LiBF4 increases, the value of Eα initially increases, but it decreases dramatically during the glass transition. The abrupt decline in Eα suggests that the addition of LiBF4 breaks cooperative rearranging motions into smaller parts. The expansion of cooperativity, and its fragmentation with increasing temperature, can be explained in terms of competition between the hydrogen-bond networks of the alcohol solvent and the ionic interactions due to the added salt. The variability of Eα with temperature is found to correlate exponentially with the dynamic fragility.

Differential Changes with Age in Multiscale Entropy of Electromyography Signals from Leg Muscles during Treadmill Walking

PubMed Central

Kang, Hyun Gu; Dingwell, Jonathan B.

2016-01-01

Age-related gait changes may be due to the loss of complexity in the neuromuscular system. This theory is disputed due to inconsistent results from single-scale analyses. Also, behavioral adaptations may confound these changes. We examined whether EMG dynamics during gait is less complex in older adults over a range of timescales using the multiscale entropy method, and whether slower walking attenuates this effect. Surface EMG was measured from the left vastus lateralis (VL), biceps femoris (BF), gastrocnemius (GA), and tibialis anterior (TA) in 17 young and 18 older adults as they walked on a treadmill for 5 minutes at 0.8x-1.2x of preferred speed. Sample entropy (SE) and the complexity index (CI) of the EMG signals were calculated after successive coarse-graining to extract dynamics at timescales of 27 to 270 Hz, with m = 2 and r = 0.15 SD. SE and CI were lower across the timescales in older adults in VL and BF, but higher in GA (all p<0.001); these results held for VL and GA even after accounting for longer EMG burst durations in older adults. CI was higher during slower walking speed in VL and BF (p<0.001). Results were mostly similar for m = 3 and r = 0.01–0.35. Smaller r was more sensitive to age-related differences. The decrease in complexity with aging in the timescales studied was limited to proximal muscles, particularly VL. The increase in GA may be driven by other factors. Walking slower may reflect a behavioral adaptation that allows the nervous system to function with greater complexity. PMID:27570974

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

Happe, J.A.; Morgan, R.J.; Walkup, C.M.

The chemical composition of commercial BF/sub 3/:amine complexes are variable and contain BF/sub 4//sup -/ and BF/sub 3/(OH)/sup -/ salts together with other unidentified highly reactive species. The BF/sub 3/:amine complexes, which are susceptible to hydrolysis, also partially convert to the BF/sub 4//sup -/ salt (i.e. BF/sub 4//sup -/NH/sub 3//sup +/C/sub 2/H/sub 5/) upon heating. This salt formation is accelerated in dimethyl sulfoxide solution and in the presence of the epoxides that are present in commercial prepregs. Commercial C fiber-epoxy prepregs are shown to contain either BF/sub 3/:NH/sub 2/C/sub 2/H/sub 5/ or BF/sub 3/:NHC/sub 5/H/sub 10/ species together with theirmore » BF/sub 4//sup -/ salts and a variety of boron-fluorine or carbon-fluorine prepreg species. Considerable variation in the relative quantities of BF/sub 3/:amine to its BF/sub 4//sup -/ salt was observed from prepreg lot to lot, which will cause variable viscosity-time-temperature prepreg cure profiles. It is concluded that the chemically stable and mobile BF/sub 4//sup -/ salt is the pre-dominant catalytic species, acting as a cationic catalyst for the prepreg cure reactions. During the early stages of cure the BF/sub 3/:amine catalyst converts to the BF/sub 4//sup -/ salt in the presence of epoxides, whereas the BF/sub 3/-prepreg species are susceptible to catalytic deactivation and immobilization.« less

Rotational dynamics of imidazolium-based ionic liquids: do the nature of the anion and the length of the alkyl chain influence the dynamics?

PubMed

Prabhu, Sugosh R; Dutt, G B

2014-11-20

The rotational dynamics of 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium-based ionic liquids has been investigated by monitoring their inherent fluorescence with the intent to unravel the characteristics of the emitting species. For this purpose, temperature-dependent fluorescence anisotropies of 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium (alkyl = ethyl and hexyl) ionic liquids with anions such as tris(pentafluoroethyl)trifluorophosphate ([FAP]), bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([Tf2N]), tetrafluoroborate ([BF4]), and hexafluorophosphate ([PF6]) have been measured. It has been observed that the reorientation times (τr) of the ionic liquids with an ethyl chain scale linearly with viscosity and were found to be independent of the nature of the anion. The experimentally measured τr values are a factor of 3 longer than the ones calculated for 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium cation using the Stokes-Einstein-Debye (SED) hydrodynamic theory with stick boundary condition, which suggests that the emitting species is not the imidazolium moiety but some kind of associated species. The reorientation times of ionic liquids with a hexyl chain, in contrast, follow the trend τr([FAP]) > τr([Tf2N]) = τr([BF4]) > τr([PF6]) at a given viscosity (η) and temperature (T). The ability of the ionic liquids with longer alkyl chains to form the organized structure appears to be responsible for the observed behavior considering the fact that significant deviations from linearity have been noticed in the τr versus η/T plots for strongly associating anions [BF4] and [PF6], especially at ambient temperatures.

Relationships between nutritional condition of adult females and relative carrying capacity for rocky mountain Elk

USGS Publications Warehouse

Piasecke, J.R.; Bender, L.C.

2009-01-01

Lactation can have significant costs to individual and population-level productivity because of the high energetic demands it places on dams. Because the difference in condition between lactating and dry Rocky Mountain elk (Cervus elaphus nelsoni) cows tends to disappear as nutritional quality rises, the magnitude of that difference could be used to relate condition to habitat quality or the capability of habitats to support elk. We therefore compared nutritional condition of ???2.5-yr-old lactating and dry cows from six free-ranging RockyMountain elk populations throughout the United States.Our goal was to quantify differential accrual of body fat (BF) reserves to determine whether the condition of dry and lactating cows could be used to define relevant management thresholds of habitat quality (i.e., relative carrying capacity) and consequently potential performance of elk populations. Levels of BF that lactating cows were able to accrue in autumn and the proportional difference in BF between dry and lactating cows in autumn were related (F 1-2,10???16.2, P<0.001). Models indicated that elk experienced no negative effects of reproduction on condition when lactating cows were able to accrue ???13.7%BF in autumn.When lactating cows are accruing ???7.9%BF, elk are in a nutritionally stressed condition, which may be limiting population performance. Using the logistic model to predict relative proximity to ecological carrying capacity (ECC), our population-years ranged from3-97%ofECCand proportion of the population lactating (an index of calf survival) was negatively related to proportion of ECC. Results indicate that the proportional difference in accrual of BF between lactating and dry cows can provide a sensitive index to where elk populations reside relative to the quality of their range.

Steady- and transient-state H2S biofiltration using expanded schist as packing material.

PubMed

Romero Hernandez, A C; Rodríguez Susa, M S; Andrès, Y; Dumont, E

2013-01-25

The performances of three laboratory-scale biofilters (BF1, BF2, BF3) packed with expanded schist for H(2)S removal were studied at different empty bed residence times (EBRT=35, 24 and 16s) in terms of elimination capacity (EC) and removal efficiency (RE). BF1 and BF2 were filled with expanded schist while BF3 was filled with both expanded schist and a nutritional material (UP20; 12% vol). BF1 and BF3 were inoculated with activated sludge, whereas BF2 was not inoculated. A maximum EC of 42 g m(-3) h(-1) was recorded for BF3 at EBRT=35 s demonstrating the ability of schist to treat high H(2)S loading rates, and the ability of UP20 to improve H(2)S removal. Michaelis-Menten and Haldane models were fitted to the experimental elimination capacities while biofilter responses to transient-state conditions in terms of removal efficiency during shock load events were also evaluated for BF1 and BF3. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Glass dynamics and anomalous aging in a family of ionic liquids above the glass transition temperature.

PubMed

Shamim, Nabila; McKenna, Gregory B

2010-12-09

The present paper reports the results of a systematic rheological study of the dynamic moduli of 1-butyl 3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([Bmim][BF(4)]), 1-butyl 3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate ([Bmim][PF(6)]), and 1-ethyl 3-methylimidazolium ethylsulfate ([Emim][EtSO(4)]) in the vicinity of their respective glass transition temperatures. The results show an anomalous aging in that the dynamic and the low shear rate viscosities decrease with time at temperatures near to, but above, the glass transition temperature, and this is described. The samples that are aged into equilibrium obey the time-temperature superposition principle, and the shift factors and the viscosities follow classic super-Arrhenius behaviors with intermediate fragility values as the glass transition is approached. Similar experiments using a high-purity [Bmim][BF(4)] show that using a higher purity of the ionic liquid, while changing absolute values of the properties, does not eliminate the anomalous aging response. The data are also analyzed in a fashion similar to that used for polymer melts, and we find that these ionic liquids do not follow, for example, the Cox-Merz relationship between the steady shear viscosity and the dynamic viscosity.

Tumor Metabolism and Blood Flow Changes by Positron Emission Tomography: Relation to Survival in Patients Treated With Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for Locally Advanced Breast Cancer

PubMed Central

Dunnwald, Lisa K.; Gralow, Julie R.; Ellis, Georgiana K.; Livingston, Robert B.; Linden, Hannah M.; Specht, Jennifer M.; Doot, Robert K.; Lawton, Thomas J.; Barlow, William E.; Kurland, Brenda F.; Schubert, Erin K.; Mankoff, David A.

2008-01-01

Purpose Patients with locally advanced breast carcinoma (LABC) receive preoperative chemotherapy to provide early systemic treatment and assess in vivo tumor response. Serial positron emission tomography (PET) has been shown to predict pathologic response in this setting. We evaluated serial quantitative PET tumor blood flow (BF) and metabolism as in vivo measurements to predict patient outcome. Patients and Methods Fifty-three women with primary LABC underwent dynamic [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) and [15O]water PET scans before and at midpoint of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The FDG metabolic rate (MRFDG) and transport (FDG K1) parameters were calculated; BF was estimated from the [15O]water study. Associations between BF, MRFDG, FDG K1, and standardized uptake value and disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated using the Cox proportional hazards model. Results Patients with persistent or elevated BF and FDG K1 from baseline to midtherapy had higher recurrence and mortality risks than patients with reductions. In multivariable analyses, BF and FDG K1 changes remained independent prognosticators of DFS and OS. For example, in the association between BF and mortality, a patient with a 5% increase in tumor BF had a 67% higher mortality risk compared with a patient with a 5% decrease in tumor BF (hazard ratio = 1.67; 95% CI, 1.24 to 2.24; P < .001). Conclusion LABC patients with limited or no decline in BF and FDG K1 experienced higher recurrence and mortality risks that were greater than the effects of clinical tumor characteristics. Tumor perfusion changes over the course of neoadjuvant chemotherapy measured directly by [15O]water or indirectly by dynamic FDG predict DFS and OS. PMID:18626006

Fluorescence sensor for the quantification of unbound bilirubin concentrations.

PubMed

Huber, Andrew H; Zhu, Baolong; Kwan, Thomas; Kampf, J Patrick; Hegyi, Thomas; Kleinfeld, Alan M

2012-05-01

Hyperbilirubinemia in jaundiced neonates is routinely assessed by use of total serum bilirubin. However, the unbound or free form (B(f)), not total bilirubin, crosses the blood-brain barrier and can be neurotoxic. Although the peroxidase-mediated oxidation of bilirubin can be used to measure plasma concentrations of B(f), this measurement is relatively complex and the assay is not routinely used. We describe a fluorescence sensor for quantifying B(f) in plasma. Our method uses a mutated fatty acid binding protein labeled with the fluorescent molecule acrylodan (BL22P1B11), whose fluorescence is quenched upon binding bilirubin. Another configuration (BL22P1B11-Rh) was developed that uses BL22P1B11 together with the fluorophore rhodamine B, which responds by a change in the ratio of its fluorescence. The "B(f) probes" were calibrated with aqueous solutions of bilirubin and yielded similar bilirubin dissociation constants [K(d) = 16 (1.5) nmol/L]. We used the probes to determine B(f) concentrations in equilibrium with human serum albumin (HSA) and in human plasma samples supplemented with bilirubin. We obtained equivalent B(f) values in both systems, and the B(f) probe results were in agreement with the peroxidase assay. B(f) measurements revealed that bilirubin-HSA binding was well described by 2 sites with K(d) values of 15.4 (1) nmol/L and 748 (14) nmol/L. We measured B(f) concentrations in the range expected in jaundiced neonates with a mean CV of approximately 3%. The BL22P1B11-Rh probe provides accurate plasma sample B(f) concentrations with a single measurement, in 1 min with either a handheld B(f) meter or a laboratory fluorometer.

Electrostatic interactions in soft particle systems: mesoscale simulations of ionic liquids.

PubMed

Wang, Yong-Lei; Zhu, You-Liang; Lu, Zhong-Yuan; Laaksonen, Aatto

2018-05-21

Computer simulations provide a unique insight into the microscopic details, molecular interactions and dynamic behavior responsible for many distinct physicochemical properties of ionic liquids. Due to the sluggish and heterogeneous dynamics and the long-ranged nanostructured nature of ionic liquids, coarse-grained meso-scale simulations provide an indispensable complement to detailed first-principles calculations and atomistic simulations allowing studies over extended length and time scales with a modest computational cost. Here, we present extensive coarse-grained simulations on a series of ionic liquids of the 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium (alkyl = butyl, heptyl-, and decyl-) family with Cl, [BF4], and [PF6] counterions. Liquid densities, microstructures, translational diffusion coefficients, and re-orientational motion of these model ionic liquid systems have been systematically studied over a wide temperature range. The addition of neutral beads in cationic models leads to a transition of liquid morphologies from dispersed apolar beads in a polar framework to that characterized by bi-continuous sponge-like interpenetrating networks in liquid matrices. Translational diffusion coefficients of both cations and anions decrease upon lengthening of the neutral chains in the cationic models and by enlarging molecular sizes of the anionic groups. Similar features are observed in re-orientational motion and time scales of different cationic models within the studied temperature range. The comparison of the liquid properties of the ionic systems with their neutral counterparts indicates that the distinctive microstructures and dynamical quantities of the model ionic liquid systems are intrinsically related to Coulombic interactions. Finally, we compared the computational efficiencies of three linearly scaling O(N log N) Ewald summation methods, the particle-particle particle-mesh method, the particle-mesh Ewald summation method, and the Ewald summation method based on a non-uniform fast Fourier transform technique, to calculate electrostatic interactions. Coarse-grained simulations were performed using the GALAMOST and the GROMACS packages and hardware efficiently utilizing graphics processing units on a set of extended [1-decyl-3-methylimidazolium][BF4] ionic liquid systems of up to 131 072 ion pairs.

Investigation of Structure and Transport in Li-Doped Ionic Liquid Electrolytes: [pyr14][TFSI], [pyr13][FSI], [EMIM][BF4

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haskins, Justin Bradley; Bennett, William Raymond; Wu, James J.; Hernandez, Dionne M.; Borodin, Oleg; Monk, Joshua D.; Bauschlicher, Charles W., Jr.; Watson, John W.

2014-01-01

Ionic liquid electrolytes have been proposed as a means of improving the safety and cycling behavior of advanced lithium batteries; however, the properties of these electrolytes under high lithium doping are poorly understood. Here, we employ both polarizable molecular dynamics simulation and experiment to investigate the structure, thermodynamics and transport of three potential electrolytes, N-methyl-N-butylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsufonyl)imide ([pyr14][TFSI]), N- methyl-N-propylpyrrolidinium bis(fluorosufonyl)imide ([pyr13][FSI]), and 1-ethyl-3-- methylimidazolium boron tetrafluoride ([EMIM][BF4]), as a function of Li (-) salt concentration and temperature. Structurally, Li(+) is shown to be solvated by three anion neighbors in [pyr14][TFSI] and four anion neighbors in both [pyr13][FSI] and [EMIM][BF4], and at all levels of xLi we find the presence of lithium aggregates. Furthermore, the computed density, diffusion, viscosity, and ionic conductivity show excellent agreement with experimental data. While the diffusion and viscosity exhibit a systematic decrease and increase, respectively, with increasing xLi, the contribution of Li(+) to ionic conductivity increases until reaching a saturation doping level of xLi 0.10. Comparatively, the Li(+) conductivity of [pyr14][TFSI] is an order of magnitude lower than that of the other liquids, which range between 0.1-0.3 mScm. The differences in Li(+) transport are reflected in the residence times of Li(+) with the anions, which are revealed to be much larger for [pyr14][TFSI] (up to 100 ns at the highest doping levels) than in either [EMIM][BF4] or [pyr13][FSI]. Finally, we comment on the relative kinetics of Li(+) transport in each liquid and we present strong evidence for transport through anion exchange (hopping) as opposed to the net motion of Li(+) with its solvation shell (vehicular).

Investigation of Structure and Transport in Li-Doped Ionic Liquid Electrolytes: [pyr14][TFSI], [pyr13][FSI] and [EMIM][BF4

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haskins, Justin B.; Bennett, William R.; Hernandez-Lugo, Dione M.; Wu, James; Borodin, Oleg; Monk, Joshua D.; Bauschlicher, Charles W.; Lawson, John W.

2014-01-01

Ionic liquid electrolytes have been proposed as a means of improving the safety and cycling behavior of advanced lithium batteries; however, the properties of these electrolytes under high lithium doping are poorly understood. Here, we employ both polarizable molecular dynamics simulation and experiment to investigate the structure, thermodynamics and transport of three potential electrolytes, N-methyl-Nbutylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsufonyl)imide ([pyr14][TFSI]), N- methyl-Npropylpyrrolidinium bis(fluorosufonyl)imide ([pyr13][FSI]), and 1-ethyl-3-- methylimidazolium boron tetrafluoride ([EMIM][BF4]), as a function of Li-salt concentration and temperature. Structurally, Li(+) is shown to be solvated by three anion neighbors in [pyr14][TFSI] and four anion neighbors in both [pyr13][FSI] and [EMIM][BF4], and at all levels of x(sub Li) we find the presence of lithium aggregates. Furthermore, the computed density, diffusion, viscosity, and ionic conductivity show excellent agreement with experimental data. While the diffusion and viscosity exhibit a systematic decrease and increase, respectively, with increasing x(sub Li), the contribution of Li(+) to ionic conductivity increases until reaching a saturation doping level of x(sub Li) is approximately 0.10. Comparatively, the Li(+) conductivity of [pyr14][TFSI] is an order of magnitude lower than that of the other liquids, which range between 0.1 - 0.3 mS/cm. The differences in Li(+) transport are reflected in the residence times of Li(+) with the anions, which are revealed to be much larger for [pyr14][TFSI] (up to 100 ns at the highest doping levels) than in either [EMIM][BF4] or [pyr13][FSI]. Finally, we comment on the relative kinetics of Li(+) transport in each liquid and we present strong evidence for transport through anion exchange (hopping) as opposed to the net motion of Li(+) with its solvation shell (vehicular).

Na2O-Al2O3 system: Activity of Na2O in (α + β)- and (β + β)-alumina

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kale, G. M.

1992-12-01

The activity of Na2O in a biphasic mixture of (α + β)-alumina has been measured in the temperature range of 700 to 1100 K using the solid-state galvanic cell: 11663_2007_Article_BF02656462_TeX2GIFE1.gif _{(1:1)}^{Pt,CO_2 + O_2 /Na_2 CO_3 /(α + β ) - alumin a//(Y_2 O_3 )ZrO_2 //In + In_2 O_3 ,Ta,Pt} Similarly, the activity of Na2O in a (β + β’’)-alumina two-phase mixture has been measured between 700 and 1100 K employing the galvanic cell: 11663_2007_Article_BF02656462_TeX2GIFE2.gif _{(1:1)}^{Pt,CO_2 + O_2 /Na_2 CO_3 /(β + β ) - alumin a//(Y_2 O_3 )ZrO_2 //In + In_2 O_3 ,Ta,Pt} The reversible electromotive force (emf ) of both the cells was found to vary linearly with temperature over the entire temperature range of measurement. From the measured reversible emf and auxiliary thermodynamic data for In2O2, Na2O, CO2 and Na2CO3 reported in the literature, the temperature dependence of the logarithm of activity of Na2O in (α + β)-alumina is obtained: 11663_2007_Article_BF02656462_TeX2GIFE3.gif log α _{Na_2 O} (α + β ) = 1.85 - 14,750/T(K)( ± 0.015)(700 ≤slant T ≤slant 1100) For (β + β'’)-alumina, 11663_2007_Article_BF02656462_TeX2GIFE4.gif log α _{Na_2 O} (β + β ) = 3.9 - 13,000/T(K)( ± 0.015)(700 ≤slant T ≤slant 1100)

Hardwood sawmill downtime costs

Treesearch

Jan Wiedenbeck; Kyle Blackwell

2003-01-01

How time flies when you don't pay attention to it. With hardwood sawmill operating costs ranging from $4 to $25 per operating minute ($95/MBF to $335/MBF) and gross profit margins ranging from $0.10/BF to $0.35/BF, five extra minutes of downtime per day will cost a sawmill that produces an average of 20,000 BF per day (5 MMBF annually) between $21 and $73 per day...

Hydrogen-fluorine exchange in NaBH4-NaBF4.

PubMed

Rude, L H; Filsø, U; D'Anna, V; Spyratou, A; Richter, B; Hino, S; Zavorotynska, O; Baricco, M; Sørby, M H; Hauback, B C; Hagemann, H; Besenbacher, F; Skibsted, J; Jensen, T R

2013-11-07

Hydrogen-fluorine exchange in the NaBH4-NaBF4 system is investigated using a range of experimental methods combined with DFT calculations and a possible mechanism for the reactions is proposed. Fluorine substitution is observed using in situ synchrotron radiation powder X-ray diffraction (SR-PXD) as a new Rock salt type compound with idealized composition NaBF2H2 in the temperature range T = 200 to 215 °C. Combined use of solid-state (19)F MAS NMR, FT-IR and DFT calculations supports the formation of a BF2H2(-) complex ion, reproducing the observation of a (19)F chemical shift at -144.2 ppm, which is different from that of NaBF4 at -159.2 ppm, along with the new absorption bands observed in the IR spectra. After further heating, the fluorine substituted compound becomes X-ray amorphous and decomposes to NaF at ~310 °C. This work shows that fluorine-substituted borohydrides tend to decompose to more stable compounds, e.g. NaF and BF3 or amorphous products such as closo-boranes, e.g. Na2B12H12. The NaBH4-NaBF4 composite decomposes at lower temperatures (300 °C) compared to NaBH4 (476 °C), as observed by thermogravimetric analysis. NaBH4-NaBF4 (1:0.5) preserves 30% of the hydrogen storage capacity after three hydrogen release and uptake cycles compared to 8% for NaBH4 as measured using Sievert's method under identical conditions, but more than 50% using prolonged hydrogen absorption time. The reversible hydrogen storage capacity tends to decrease possibly due to the formation of NaF and Na2B12H12. On the other hand, the additive sodium fluoride appears to facilitate hydrogen uptake, prevent foaming, phase segregation and loss of material from the sample container for samples of NaBH4-NaF.

Bioadhesive floating microsponges of cinnarizine as novel gastroretentive delivery: Capmul GMO bioadhesive coating versus acconon MC 8-2 EP/NF with intrinsic bioadhesive property.

PubMed

Raghuvanshi, Smita; Pathak, Kamla

2016-01-01

The study was aimed at the development of low-density gastroretentive bioadhesive microsponges of cinnarizine by two-pronged approach (i) coating with bioadhesive material and (ii) exploration of acconon MC 8-2 EP/NF as bioadhesive raw material for fabrication. Microsponges were prepared by quasi-emulsion solvent diffusion method using 3 2 factorial design. Capmul GMO was employed for bioadhesive coating. In parallel, potential of acconon for the fabrication of bioadhesive floating microsponges (A8) was assessed. Formulation with entrapment efficiency = 82.4 ± 3.4%, buoyancy = 82.3 ± 2.5%, and correlation of drug release (CDR 8h ) = 88.7% ± 2.9% was selected as optimized formulation (F8) and subjected to bioadhesive coating (BF8). The %CDR 8h for A8 was similar to BF8 (87.2% ± 3.5%). Dynamic in vitro bioadhesion test revealed comparable bioadhesivity with BF8. The ex vivo permeation across gastric mucin displayed 63.16% for BF8 against 56.74% from A8; affirmed the bioadhesivity of both approaches. The study concluded with the development of novel bioadhesive floating microsponges of cinnarizine employing capmul GMO as bioadhesive coating material and confirmed the viability of acconon MC 8-2EP/NF as bioadhesive raw material for sustained targeted delivery of drug.

[C3(OH)2mim][BF4]-Au/Pt biosensor for glutamate sensing in vivo integrated with on-line microdialysis system.

PubMed

Yu, Yanyan; Liu, Xiaoqian; Jiang, Dawei; Sun, Qian; Zhou, Tianshu; Zhu, Min; Jin, Litong; Shi, Guoyue

2011-03-15

A new type of hydroxyl functionalized room temperature ionic liquid (RTIL), [C(3)(OH)(2)mim][BF(4)], was synthesized herein and a novel H(2)O(2) biosensor is fabricated with [C(3)(OH)(2)mim][BF(4)] as the substrate and electrodepositing bimetallic Au/Pt nanoparticles (NPs) onto the [C(3)(OH)(2)mim][BF(4)] film. The functionalization of RTIL with hydroxyl groups provided an appropriate environment for the preparation of more uniform and smaller Au/Pt NPs with the diameter of 2.5 nm±0.2 nm. Immobilized with glutamate oxidase (GlutaOx), the resulting GlutaOx-[C(3)(OH)(2)mim][BF(4)]-Au/Pt-Nafion biosensor displayed excellent electrocatalytic response to glutamate at a potential of -200 mV. An effective on-line microdialysis system, which was powered by a microdialysis pump, was set up and used for the detection of glutamate successively in the striatum of rats. The glutamate biosensor in on-line microdialysis system showed good linear range from 0.5 μM to 20.0 μM with the detection limit of 0.17 μM (S/N=3). The basal level of glutamate in the striatum of anaesthetic rats was calculated to be 3.01±0.67 μM (n=3). The application of the GlutaOx-[C(3)(OH)(2)mim][BF(4)]-Au/Pt-Nafion electrode is further demonstrated for in vivo sensing of the variation of glutamate level in the striatum when rats received intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of 100 mM KCl and brain electrical stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus area (STN). Both of the two kinds of stimulation resulted in an increase in the extracellular concentration of glutamate. This method has proved to be sensitive and reproducible, which enables its promising application in physiology and pathology. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Low-T magnetometry study of S = 1 Q2D [Ni(pyz) 2(H 2O) 2](BF 4) 2 (pyz = pyrazine)

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

Manson, J. L.; Villa, D. Y.; Blackmore, W. J. A.

2017-02-13

[Ni(pyz) 2(H 2O) 2](BF 4) 2 (pyz = N 2C 4H 4) was synthesized by a solvent-free technique and its structure solved by synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction.1 The compound contains S = 1 Ni(II) ions and has tetragonal symmetry. Two-D [Ni(pyz) 2(H 2O) 2] 2+ square lattices propagate in the ab-plane and stack along the c-axis (Fig. 1). Water ligands occupy axial sites and form H-bonds with interlayer BF 4 - ions. SQUID magnetometry shows a possible transition to long-range magnetic order near 3 K. We measured the magnetization of [Ni(pyz) 2(H 2O) 2](BF 4) 2 as a function ofmore » temperature to search for field-induced phase transitions and briefly report those findings here.« less

Cell type-specific long-range connections of basal forebrain circuit.

PubMed

Do, Johnny Phong; Xu, Min; Lee, Seung-Hee; Chang, Wei-Cheng; Zhang, Siyu; Chung, Shinjae; Yung, Tyler J; Fan, Jiang Lan; Miyamichi, Kazunari; Luo, Liqun; Dan, Yang

2016-09-19

The basal forebrain (BF) plays key roles in multiple brain functions, including sleep-wake regulation, attention, and learning/memory, but the long-range connections mediating these functions remain poorly characterized. Here we performed whole-brain mapping of both inputs and outputs of four BF cell types - cholinergic, glutamatergic, and parvalbumin-positive (PV+) and somatostatin-positive (SOM+) GABAergic neurons - in the mouse brain. Using rabies virus -mediated monosynaptic retrograde tracing to label the inputs and adeno-associated virus to trace axonal projections, we identified numerous brain areas connected to the BF. The inputs to different cell types were qualitatively similar, but the output projections showed marked differences. The connections to glutamatergic and SOM+ neurons were strongly reciprocal, while those to cholinergic and PV+ neurons were more unidirectional. These results reveal the long-range wiring diagram of the BF circuit with highly convergent inputs and divergent outputs and point to both functional commonality and specialization of different BF cell types.

Ethnic differences in the relationship between body mass index and percentage body fat among Asian children from different backgrounds.

PubMed

Liu, Ailing; Byrne, Nuala M; Kagawa, Masaharu; Ma, Guansheng; Poh, Bee Koon; Ismail, Mohammad Noor; Kijboonchoo, Kallaya; Nasreddine, Lara; Trinidad, Trinidad Palad; Hills, Andrew P

2011-11-01

Overweight and obesity in Asian children are increasing at an alarming rate; therefore a better understanding of the relationship between BMI and percentage body fat (%BF) in this population is important. A total of 1039 children aged 8-10 years, encompassing a wide BMI range, were recruited from China, Lebanon, Malaysia, The Philippines and Thailand. Body composition was determined using the 2H dilution technique to quantify total body water and subsequently fat mass, fat-free mass and %BF. Ethnic differences in the BMI-%BF relationship were found; for example, %BF in Filipino boys was approximately 2 % lower than in their Thai and Malay counterparts. In contrast, Thai girls had approximately 2.0 % higher %BF values than in their Chinese, Lebanese, Filipino and Malay counterparts at a given BMI. However, the ethnic difference in the BMI-%BF relationship varied by BMI. Compared with Caucasian children of the same age, Asian children had 3-6 units lower BMI at a given %BF. Approximately one-third of the obese Asian children (%BF above 25 % for boys and above 30 % for girls) in the study were not identified using the WHO classification and more than half using the International Obesity Task Force classification. Use of the Chinese classification increased the sensitivity. Results confirmed the necessity to consider ethnic differences in body composition when developing BMI cut-points and other obesity criteria in Asian children.

Structure and dynamics of ND3BF3 in the solid and gas phases: a combined NMR, neutron diffraction, and Ab initio study.

PubMed

Penner, Glenn H; Ruscitti, Bruno; Reynolds, Julie; Swainson, Ian

2002-12-30

The decrease in D-->A bond lengths, previously reported for some Lewis acid/base complexes, in going from the gas to the solid phases is investigated by obtaining an accurate crystal structure of solid ND(3)BF(3) by powder neutron diffraction. The B-N internuclear distance is 1.554(3) A, 0.118 A shorter than the most recent gas-phase microwave value and 0.121 A shorter than the single molecule geometry optimized (1.672 A, CISD/6-311++G(d,p)) bond length. The crystal structure also shows N-D.F-B hydrogen bonds. The effects of this change in structure and of intermolecular hydrogen-bonding on nuclear magnetic shielding (i.e., chemical shifts) and the nuclear quadrupolar coupling constants (QCC) are investigated by ab initio molecular orbital and density functional theory calculations. These calculations show that the nitrogen ((15)N and (14)N) and boron ((11)B and (10)B) chemical shifts should be rather insensitive to changes in r(BN) and that the concomitant changes in molecular structure. Calculations on hydrogen-bonded clusters, based on the crystal structure, indicate that H-bonding should also have very little effect on the chemical shifts. On the other hand, the (11)B and (14)N QCCs show large changes because of both effects. An analysis of the (10)B[(19)F] line shape in solid ND(3)(10)BF(3) yields a (11)B QCC of +/-0.130 MHz. This is reasonably close an earlier value of +/-0.080 MHz and the value of +/-0.050 MHz calculated for a [NH(3)BF(3)](4) cluster. The gas-phase value is 1.20 MHz. Temperature-dependent deuterium T(1) measurements yield an activation energy for rotation of the ND(3) group in solid ND(3)BF(3) of 9.5 +/- 0.1 kJ/mol. Simulations of the temperature-dependent T(1) anisotropy gave an E(a) of 9.5 +/- 0.2 kJ/mol and a preexponential factor, A, of 3.0 +/- 0.1 x 10(12) s(-)(1). Our calculated value for a [NH(3)BF(3)](4) cluster is 16.4 kJ/mol. Both are much higher than the previous value of 3.9 kJ/mol, from solid-state proton T(1) measurements.

Validation of multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis versus dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry to measure body fat percentage in overweight/obese Colombian adults.

PubMed

Ramírez-Vélez, Robinson; Tordecilla-Sanders, Alejandra; Correa-Bautista, Jorge Enrique; González-Ruíz, Katherine; González-Jiménez, Emilio; Triana-Reina, Hector Reynaldo; García-Hermoso, Antonio; Schmidt-RioValle, Jacqueline

2018-01-01

To verify the validity of multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (mBCA) for predicting body fat percentage (BF%) in overweight/obese adults using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) as the reference method. Forty-eight adults participated (54% women, mean age = 41.0 ± 7.3 years old). The Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the correlation between BIA and BF% assessed by DXA. The concordance between BF% measured by both methods was obtained with Lin's concordance correlation coefficient and Bland-Altman difference plots. Measures of BF% were estimated as 39.0 (SD = 6.1) and 38.3 (SD = 6.5) using DXA and mBCA, respectively. The Pearson's correlation coefficient reflected a strong correlation (r =.921, P = .001). The paired t-test showed a significant mean difference between these methods for obese men BF% of -0.6 [(SD 1.95; 95% CI = -4.0 to 3.0), P =.037]. Overall, the bias of the mBCA was -0.6 [(SD 2.2; 95% CI = -5.0 to 3.7), P =.041], which indicated that the mBCA method significantly underestimated BF% in comparison to the reference method. Finally, in both genders, Lin's concordance correlation coefficient showed a strong agreement. More specifically the DXA value was ρc = 0.943 (95% CI = 0.775 to 0.950) and the mBCA value was ρc = 0.948 (95% CI = 0.778 to 0.978). Our analysis showed a strong agreement between the two methods as reflected in the range of BF%. These results show that mBCA and DXA are comparable methods for measuring body composition with higher body fat percentages. However, due to broad limits of agreement, we can only recommend mBCA for groups of populations. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Application of Response Surface Methodology to Study the Effects of Brisket Fat, Soy Protein Isolate, and Cornstarch on Nutritional and Textural Properties of Rabbit Sausages.

PubMed

Wambui, Joseph M; Karuri, Edward G; Wanyoike, Margaret M M

2017-01-01

The effects of brisket fat, soy protein isolate, and cornstarch on chemical and textural properties of rabbit sausages were studied using surface response methodology. Sausage samples were prepared using a five-level three-variable Central Composite Rotatable Design with 16 combinations, including two replicates of the center point, carried out in random order. The level of brisket fat (BF), soy protein isolate (SPI), and cornstarch (CS) in the sausage formulation ranged within 8.3-16.7%, 0.7-2.3%, and 1.3-4.7%, respectively. Increasing BF decreased moisture and ash contents but increased protein and fat contents of the sausages ( p < 0.05). Increasing SPI increased moisture content but decreased ash and carbohydrate contents of the sausages ( p < 0.05). Increasing CS increased carbohydrate content ( p < 0.05). Increasing BF increased hardness, adhesiveness, cohesiveness, and chewiness but decreased springiness ( p < 0.05). SPI addition increased springiness but decreased adhesiveness, cohesiveness, and chewiness ( p < 0.05). In conclusion, varying the levels of BF and SPI had a more significant effect on chemical and textural properties of rabbit sausages than CS.

Application of Response Surface Methodology to Study the Effects of Brisket Fat, Soy Protein Isolate, and Cornstarch on Nutritional and Textural Properties of Rabbit Sausages

PubMed Central

Karuri, Edward G.; Wanyoike, Margaret M. M.

2017-01-01

The effects of brisket fat, soy protein isolate, and cornstarch on chemical and textural properties of rabbit sausages were studied using surface response methodology. Sausage samples were prepared using a five-level three-variable Central Composite Rotatable Design with 16 combinations, including two replicates of the center point, carried out in random order. The level of brisket fat (BF), soy protein isolate (SPI), and cornstarch (CS) in the sausage formulation ranged within 8.3–16.7%, 0.7–2.3%, and 1.3–4.7%, respectively. Increasing BF decreased moisture and ash contents but increased protein and fat contents of the sausages (p < 0.05). Increasing SPI increased moisture content but decreased ash and carbohydrate contents of the sausages (p < 0.05). Increasing CS increased carbohydrate content (p < 0.05). Increasing BF increased hardness, adhesiveness, cohesiveness, and chewiness but decreased springiness (p < 0.05). SPI addition increased springiness but decreased adhesiveness, cohesiveness, and chewiness (p < 0.05). In conclusion, varying the levels of BF and SPI had a more significant effect on chemical and textural properties of rabbit sausages than CS. PMID:28706941

Luminescent Copper(I) Halide Butterfly Dimers Coordinated to [Au(CH3imCH2py)2]BF4 and [Au(CH3imCH2quin)2]BF4

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

Catalano, V.; Moore, A; Shearer, J

2009-01-01

The coordination chemistry of copper(I) halides to the homoleptic, N-heterocyclic carbene Au(I) complexes [Au(CH{sub 3}imCH{sub 2}quin){sub 2}]BF{sub 4} and [Au(CH{sub 3}imCH{sub 2}py){sub 2}]BF{sub 4} was explored. The reaction of CuX (X = Cl, Br, I) with either [Au(CH{sub 3}imCH{sub 2}quin){sub 2}]BF{sub 4} or [Au(CH{sub 3}imCH{sub 2}py){sub 2}]BF{sub 4} produces trimetallic complexes containing Cu{sub 2}X{sub 2}-butterfly copper clusters coordinated to the two imine moieties. The triangular arrangement of the metals places the gold(I) center in close proximity ({approx}2.5-2.6 {angstrom}) to the centroid of the Cu-Cu vector. The Cu-Cu separations vary as a function of bridging halide with the shortest Cu-Cu separationsmore » of {approx}2.5 {angstrom} found in the iodo-complexes and the longest separations of 2.9 {angstrom} found in the bridging chloride complexes. In all six complexes the Au-Cu separations range from {approx}2.8 to 3.0 {angstrom}. In the absence of halides, the dimetallic complex [AuCu(CH{sub 3}imCH{sub 2}py){sub 2}(NCCH{sub 3}){sub 2}](BF{sub 4}){sub 2}, containing a long Au-Cu distance of {approx}4.72 {angstrom} is formed. Additionally, as the byproduct of the reaction of CuBr with [Au(CH{sub 3}imCH{sub 2}quin){sub 2}]BF{sub 4} the deep-red, dimetallic compound, AuCuBr{sub 2}(CH{sub 3}imCH{sub 2}quin){sub 2}, was isolated in very low yield. All of these complexes were studied by NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and the copper containing species were additionally characterized by X-ray crystallography. In solution the copper centers dissociate from the gold complexes, but as shown by XANES and EXAFS spectroscopy, at low temperature the Cu-Cu linkage is broken, and the individual copper(I) halides reposition themselves to opposite sides of the gold complex while remaining coordinated to one imine moiety. In the solid state all of the complexes are photoluminescent, though the nature of the excited state was not determined.« less

Bioadhesive floating microsponges of cinnarizine as novel gastroretentive delivery: Capmul GMO bioadhesive coating versus acconon MC 8-2 EP/NF with intrinsic bioadhesive property

PubMed Central

Raghuvanshi, Smita; Pathak, Kamla

2016-01-01

Introduction: The study was aimed at the development of low-density gastroretentive bioadhesive microsponges of cinnarizine by two-pronged approach (i) coating with bioadhesive material and (ii) exploration of acconon MC 8-2 EP/NF as bioadhesive raw material for fabrication. Materials and Methods: Microsponges were prepared by quasi-emulsion solvent diffusion method using 32 factorial design. Capmul GMO was employed for bioadhesive coating. In parallel, potential of acconon for the fabrication of bioadhesive floating microsponges (A8) was assessed. Results: Formulation with entrapment efficiency = 82.4 ± 3.4%, buoyancy = 82.3 ± 2.5%, and correlation of drug release (CDR8h) = 88.7% ± 2.9% was selected as optimized formulation (F8) and subjected to bioadhesive coating (BF8). The %CDR8h for A8 was similar to BF8 (87.2% ± 3.5%). Dynamic in vitro bioadhesion test revealed comparable bioadhesivity with BF8. The ex vivo permeation across gastric mucin displayed 63.16% for BF8 against 56.74% from A8; affirmed the bioadhesivity of both approaches. Conclusion: The study concluded with the development of novel bioadhesive floating microsponges of cinnarizine employing capmul GMO as bioadhesive coating material and confirmed the viability of acconon MC 8-2EP/NF as bioadhesive raw material for sustained targeted delivery of drug. PMID:28123987

Antimicrobial particles from cationic lipid and polyelectrolytes.

PubMed

Melo, Letícia D; Mamizuka, Elsa M; Carmona-Ribeiro, Ana M

2010-07-20

Hybrid nanoparticles from cationic lipid and polymers were prepared and characterized regarding physical properties and antimicrobial activity. Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride (PDDA) were sequentially added to cationic bilayer fragments (BF) prepared from ultrasonic dispersion in water of the synthetic and cationic lipid dioctadecyldimethylammonium bromide (DODAB). Particles thus obtained were characterized by dynamic light-scattering for determination of z-average diameter (Dz) and zeta-potential (zeta). Antimicrobial activity of the DODAB BF/CMC/PDDA particles against Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Staphylococcus aureus was determined by plating and CFU counting over a range of particle compositions. DODAB BF/CMC/PDDA particles exhibited sizes and zeta-potentials strictly dependent on DODAB, CMC, and PDDA concentrations. At 0.1 mM DODAB, 0.1 mg/mL CMC, and 0.1 mg/mL PDDA, small cationic particles with Dz = 100 nm and zeta = 30 mV were obtained. At 0.5 mM DODAB, 0.5 mg/mL CMC and 0.5 mg/mL PDDA, large cationic particles with Dz = 470 nm and zeta = 50 mV were obtained. Both particulates were highly reproducible regarding physical properties and yielded 0% of P. aeruginosa viability (10(7) CFU/mL) at 1 or 2 microg/mL PDDA dissolved in solution or in form of particles, respectively. 99% of S. aureus cells died at 10 microg/mL PDDA alone or in small or large DODAB BF/CMC/PDDA particles. The antimicrobial effect was dependent on the amount of positive charge on particles and independent of particle size. A high microbicide potency for PDDA over a range of nanomolar concentrations was disclosed. P. aeruginosa was more sensitive to all cationic assemblies than S. aureus.

Comparative Analysis of Ultrasonic Inspection Procedures for Kaman K747 Root End Fittings

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-04-01

I.CI- IA 4cz 4c-- a- LLJ 4A ccu I46 APPENDIX III. TRANSDUCER WEDGE ANGLE DATA RESULTS No Procedure, Gain = 70 dB 45.Degre Probe REF# TF1 TF2 TF3 TAl...Degree Probe REF # TF1 TF2 TF3 TAl TA2 TA3 BF1 BF2 BF3 BAl BA2 BA3 B5328 35 33 -. . . 31 - - - - - 38 38 B5102 38 - 31 .. - - 31 - - - B5298 40 42...50 No Procedure, Gain = 70 dB 50-Degree Probe REF # TF1 TF2 TF3 TAl TA2 TA3 BF1 BF2 BF3 BAl BA2 BA3 B5328 - . . . . 32 - 40 B5102 34 .- 30

Dynamics of the Entomogenous Nematode Steinernema feltiae Applied to Soil with and without Nematicide Treatment

PubMed Central

Ishibashi, N.; Kondo, E.

1987-01-01

The dynamics of Steinernema feltiae strain DD-136 in soils with different fauna was investigated to determine the best method for the biological control of soil insects. Infective juveniles (J3) were applied to field plots with and without 1,3-D (Telone II) fumigation. Recovery of J3 and changes in native nematode fauna were monitored until the applied J3 were no longer recovered by Baermann funnel (BF). Recovery of J3 by BF or by a two-step extraction procedure from steam-sterilized or nonsterilized sandy or silty soil with different fauna was investigated. More DD-136 J3 were recovered from the 1,3-D treated soil than from nontreated soil, while native nematodes in the treated soil fluctuated more with the addition of DD-136 than those in nontreated soil. The J3 persisted longer in silty than in sandy soils. The inundative soil application of DD-136 increased native rhabditids and decreased plant-parasitic nematodes. DD-136 in chemically treated soil not only effectively attacked the invading soil insect pests but also suppressed the recovery of plant nematodes. PMID:19290163

Acute exposure to synthetic pyrethroids causes bioconcentration and disruption of the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis in zebrafish embryos.

PubMed

Tu, Wenqing; Xu, Chao; Lu, Bin; Lin, Chunmian; Wu, Yongming; Liu, Weiping

2016-01-15

Synthetic pyrethroids (SPs) have the potential to disrupt the thyroid endocrine system in mammals; however, little is known of the effects of SPs and underlying mechanisms in fish. In the current study, embryonic zebrafish were exposed to various concentrations (1, 3 and 10 μg/L) of bifenthrin (BF) or λ-cyhalothrin (λ-CH) until 72 h post fertilization, and body condition, bioaccumulation, thyroid hormone levels and transcription of related genes along the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis examined. Body weight was significantly decreased in the λ-CH exposure groups, but not the BF exposure groups. BF and λ-CH markedly accumulated in the larvae, with concentrations ranging from 90.7 to 596.8 ng/g. In both exposure groups, alterations were observed in thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) levels. In addition, the majority of the HPT axis-related genes examined, including CRH, TSHβ, TTR, UGT1ab, Pax8, Dio2 and TRα, were significantly upregulated in the presence of BF. Compared to BF, λ-CH induced different transcriptional regulation patterns of the tested genes, in particular, significant stimulation of TTR, Pax8, Dio2 and TRα levels along with concomitant downregulation of Dio1. Molecular docking analyses revealed that at the atomic level, BF binds to thyroid hormone receptor (TRα) protein more potently than λ-CH, consequently affecting HPT axis signal transduction. In vitro and in silico experiments disclosed that during the early stages of zebrafish development, BF and λ-CH have the potential to disrupt thyroid endocrine system. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Equation-derived body fat percentage indicates metabolic abnormalities among normal-weight adults in a rural Chinese population.

PubMed

Liu, Xin; Zhao, Yaling; Li, Qiang; Dang, Shaonong; Yan, Hong

2017-07-08

Obesity classification using body mass index (BMI) may miss subjects with elevated body fat percentage (BF%) and related metabolic risk factors. We aimed to evaluate whether BF% calculated by equations could provide more information about metabolic risks, in addition to BMI classification, in a cross-sectional rural Chinese population. A total of 2,990 men and women aged 18-80 years were included in this study. BF% was calculated using previously validated Chinese-specific equations. Metabolic syndrome was defined according to the updated National Cholesterol Education Program Panel III criteria for Asian Americans. In total, 33.6% men and 32.9% women were overweight/obese according to BMI classification. Among those within the normal BMI range, 25.4% men and 54.7% women were indicated as overweight or obese given their elevated BF% (men: BF% ≥ 20%; women: BF% ≥ 30%). In both men and women, compared with those with normal BMI and BF% (NBB), subjects with normal BMI but elevated BF% (NBOB) were more likely to carry abnormal serum lipid profile and to have higher risks of metabolic syndrome. The multivariable adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for metabolic syndrome were 5.45 (2.37-9.53, P < 0.001) and 5.65 (3.36-9.52, P < 0.001) for men and women, respectively. Moreover, the women with NBOB also showed higher blood pressure and serum uric acid than women with NBB. Our study suggested that high BF% based on equations may indicate adverse metabolic profiles among rural Chinese adults with a normal BMI. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Ion Transport and Mechanisms in Polymer Nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mogurampelly, Santosh; Ganesan, Venkat

2015-03-01

Using all atom molecular dynamics and trajectory-extending kinetic Monte Carlo simulations, we study the influence of Al2O3 nanoparticles on the transport properties of Li+ ions in polymer electrolytes consisting of polyethylene oxide (PEO) melt solvated with LiBF4 salt. We observe that the nanoparticles have a strong influence on polymer segmental dynamics which in turn correlates with the mobility of Li+ ions. Explicitly, polymer segmental relaxation times and Li+ ion residence times around polymer were found to increase with the addition of nanoparticles. We also observe that increasing short range repulsive interactions between nanoparticles and polymer membrane leads to increasing polymer dynamics and ion mobility. Overall, our simulation results suggest that nanoparticle induced changes in conformational and dynamic properties of the polymer influences the ion mobilities in polymer electrolytes and suggests possible directions for using such findings to improve the polymer matrix conductivity. The authors acknowledge the Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC) at The University of Texas at Austin for providing computing resources that have contributed to the research.

Noncontact diffuse optical assessment of blood flow changes in head and neck free tissue transfer flaps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Chong; Radabaugh, Jeffrey P.; Aouad, Rony K.; Lin, Yu; Gal, Thomas J.; Patel, Amit B.; Valentino, Joseph; Shang, Yu; Yu, Guoqiang

2015-07-01

Knowledge of tissue blood flow (BF) changes after free tissue transfer may enable surgeons to predict the failure of flap thrombosis at an early stage. This study used our recently developed noncontact diffuse correlation spectroscopy to monitor dynamic BF changes in free flaps without getting in contact with the targeted tissue. Eight free flaps were elevated in patients with head and neck cancer; one of the flaps failed. Multiple BF measurements probing the transferred tissue were performed during and post the surgical operation. Postoperative BF values were normalized to the intraoperative baselines (assigning "1") for the calculation of relative BF change (rBF). The rBF changes over the seven successful flaps were 1.89±0.15, 2.26±0.13, and 2.43±0.13 (mean±standard error), respectively, on postoperative days 2, 4, and 7. These postoperative values were significantly higher than the intraoperative baseline values (p<0.001), indicating a gradual recovery of flap vascularity after the tissue transfer. By contrast, rBF changes observed from the unsuccessful flaps were 1.14 and 1.34, respectively, on postoperative days 2 and 4, indicating less flow recovery. Measurement of BF recovery after flap anastomosis holds the potential to act early to salvage ischemic flaps.

Noncontact diffuse optical assessment of blood flow changes in head and neck free tissue transfer flaps

PubMed Central

Huang, Chong; Radabaugh, Jeffrey P.; Aouad, Rony K.; Lin, Yu; Gal, Thomas J.; Patel, Amit B.; Valentino, Joseph; Shang, Yu; Yu, Guoqiang

2015-01-01

Abstract. Knowledge of tissue blood flow (BF) changes after free tissue transfer may enable surgeons to predict the failure of flap thrombosis at an early stage. This study used our recently developed noncontact diffuse correlation spectroscopy to monitor dynamic BF changes in free flaps without getting in contact with the targeted tissue. Eight free flaps were elevated in patients with head and neck cancer; one of the flaps failed. Multiple BF measurements probing the transferred tissue were performed during and post the surgical operation. Postoperative BF values were normalized to the intraoperative baselines (assigning “1”) for the calculation of relative BF change (rBF). The rBF changes over the seven successful flaps were 1.89±0.15, 2.26±0.13, and 2.43±0.13 (mean±standard error), respectively, on postoperative days 2, 4, and 7. These postoperative values were significantly higher than the intraoperative baseline values (p<0.001), indicating a gradual recovery of flap vascularity after the tissue transfer. By contrast, rBF changes observed from the unsuccessful flaps were 1.14 and 1.34, respectively, on postoperative days 2 and 4, indicating less flow recovery. Measurement of BF recovery after flap anastomosis holds the potential to act early to salvage ischemic flaps. PMID:26187444

Dense concentric circle scanning protocol for measuring pulsatile retinal blood flow in rats with Doppler optical coherence tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, Bingyao; Hosseinaee, Zohreh; Bizheva, Kostadinka

2017-11-01

The variability in the spatial orientation of retinal blood vessels near the optic nerve head (ONH) results in imprecision of the measured Doppler angle and therefore the pulsatile blood flow (BF), when those parameters are evaluated using Doppler OCT imaging protocols based on dual-concentric circular scans. Here, we utilized a dense concentric circle scanning protocol and evaluated its precision for measuring pulsatile retinal BF in rats for different numbers of the circular scans. An spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) system operating in the 1060-nm spectral range with image acquisition rate of 47,000 A-scans/s was used to acquire concentric circular scans centered at the rat's ONH, with diameters ranging from 0.8 to 1.0 mm. A custom, automatic blood vessel segmentation algorithm was used to track the spatial orientation of the retinal blood vessels in three dimensions, evaluate the spatially dependent Doppler angle and calculate more accurately the axial BF for each major retinal blood vessel. Metrics such as retinal BF, pulsatility index, and resistance index were evaluated for each and all of the major retinal blood vessels. The performance of the proposed dense concentric circle scanning protocols was compared with that of the dual-circle scanning protocol. Results showed a 3.8±2.2 deg difference in the Doppler angle calculation between the two approaches, which resulted in ˜7% difference in the calculated retinal BF.

Cell-Type and State-Dependent Synchronization among Rodent Somatosensory, Visual, Perirhinal Cortex, and Hippocampus CA1

PubMed Central

Vinck, Martin; Bos, Jeroen J.; Van Mourik-Donga, Laura A.; Oplaat, Krista T.; Klein, Gerbrand A.; Jackson, Jadin C.; Gentet, Luc J.; Pennartz, Cyriel M. A.

2016-01-01

Beta and gamma rhythms have been hypothesized to be involved in global and local coordination of neuronal activity, respectively. Here, we investigated how cells in rodent area S1BF are entrained by rhythmic fluctuations at various frequencies within the local area and in connected areas, and how this depends on behavioral state and cell type. We performed simultaneous extracellular field and unit recordings in four connected areas of the freely moving rat (S1BF, V1M, perirhinal cortex, CA1). S1BF spiking activity was strongly entrained by both beta and gamma S1BF oscillations, which were associated with deactivations and activations, respectively. We identified multiple classes of fast spiking and excitatory cells in S1BF, which showed prominent differences in rhythmic entrainment and in the extent to which phase locking was modulated by behavioral state. Using an additional dataset acquired by whole-cell recordings in head-fixed mice, these cell classes could be compared with identified phenotypes showing gamma rhythmicity in their membrane potential. We next examined how S1BF cells were entrained by rhythmic fluctuations in connected brain areas. Gamma-synchronization was detected in all four areas, however we did not detect significant gamma coherence among these areas. Instead, we only found long-range coherence in the theta-beta range among these areas. In contrast to local S1BF synchronization, we found long-range S1BF-spike to CA1–LFP synchronization to be homogeneous across inhibitory and excitatory cell types. These findings suggest distinct, cell-type contributions of low and high-frequency synchronization to intra- and inter-areal neuronal interactions. PMID:26834582

Analysis of the Origin and Evolutionary History of HIV-1 CRF28_BF and CRF29_BF Reveals a Decreasing Prevalence in the AIDS Epidemic of Brazil

PubMed Central

Ristic, Natalia; Zukurov, Jean; Alkmim, Wagner; Diaz, Ricardo Sobhie; Janini, Luiz Mario; Chin, Mario P. S.

2011-01-01

Background HIV-1 subtype B and subtype F are prevalent in the AIDS epidemic of Brazil. Recombinations between these subtypes have generated at least four BF circulating recombinant forms (CRFs). CRF28_BF and CRF29_BF are among the first two BF recombinants being identified in Brazil and they contributed significantly to the epidemic. However, the evolution and demographic histories of the CRFs are unclear. Methodology/Principal Findings A collection of gag and pol sequences sampled within Brazil was screened for CRF28_BF-like and CRF29_BF-like recombination patterns. A Bayesian coalescent framework was employed to delineate the phylogenetic, divergence time and population dynamics of the virus having CRF28_BF-like and CRF29_BF-like genotype. These recombinants were phylogenetically related to each other and formed a well-supported monophyletic clade dated to 1988–1989. The effective number of infections by these recombinants grew exponentially over a five-year period after their emergence, but then decreased toward the present following a logistic model of population growth. The demographic pattern of both recombinants closely resembles those previously reported for CRF31_BC. Conclusions We revealed that HIV-1 recombinants of the CRF28_BF/CRF29_BF clade are still circulating in the Brazilian population. These recombinants did not exhibit a strong founder effect and showed a decreasing prevalence in the AIDS epidemic of Brazil. Our data suggested that multiple URFs may also play a role in shaping the epidemic of recombinant BF HIV-1 in the region. PMID:21390250

Control of sinter quality for blast furnaces of SAIL through characterization of high temperature properties

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

Mishra, U.N.; Thakur, B.; Mediratta, S.R.

1996-12-31

Quality of blast furnace (BF) burden materials and their performance inside the furnace have attracted increased importance worldwide. High productivity, low fuel rate and stable operation of BF can be achieved by suitably controlling the quality of input materials particularly that of sinter which is the main constituent of the burden. Reduction Degradation Index (RDI), Reducibility Index (RI) and Softening-melting characteristics are some of the quality indicators of sinter. The effect of chemical composition of sinter in the ranges of CaO/SiO{sub 2} 1.4--2.0, FeO 4.0--8.0, Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} 1.3--2.0 and MgO 1.2--2.0 on the above mentioned properties have been reportedmore » in literature. Due to the peculiarity of Indian raw materials, i.e., high ash content of coke and high Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} content of iron ore, the sinter composition varies over a wide range of CaO/SiO{sub 2} 2.0--2.5, FeO 8--11%, Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} 2--4% and MgO 2--5% in different plants of SAIL. This paper discusses the effect of above constituents in higher ranges as compared to earlier study on RDI, RI and Softening-melting properties so that sinter composition can be optimized for achieving desirable properties for better BF performance.« less

Syntheses, crystal structures and Raman spectra of Ba(BF{sub 4})(PF{sub 6}), Ba(BF{sub 4})(AsF{sub 6}) and Ba{sub 2}(BF{sub 4}){sub 2}(AsF{sub 6})(H{sub 3}F{sub 4}); the first examples of metal salts containing simultaneously tetrahedral BF{sub 4}{sup -} and octahedral AF{sub 6}{sup -} anions

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

Lozinsek, Matic; Bunic, Tina; Goreshnik, Evgeny, E-mail: evgeny.goreshnik@ijs.s

2009-10-15

In the system BaF{sub 2}/BF{sub 3}/PF{sub 5}/anhydrous hydrogen fluoride (aHF) a compound Ba(BF{sub 4})(PF{sub 6}) was isolated and characterized by Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction on the single crystal. Ba(BF{sub 4})(PF{sub 6}) crystallizes in a hexagonal P6-bar2m space group with a=10.2251(4) A, c=6.1535(4) A, V=557.17(5) A{sup 3} at 200 K, and Z=3. Both crystallographically independent Ba atoms possess coordination polyhedra in the shape of tri-capped trigonal prisms, which include F atoms from BF{sub 4}{sup -} and PF{sub 6}{sup -} anions. In the analogous system with AsF{sub 5} instead of PF{sub 5} the compound Ba(BF{sub 4})(AsF{sub 6}) was isolated and characterized.more » It crystallizes in an orthorhombic Pnma space group with a=10.415(2) A, b=6.325(3) A, c=11.8297(17) A, V=779.3(4) A{sup 3} at 200 K, and Z=4. The coordination around Ba atom is in the shape of slightly distorted tri-capped trigonal prism which includes five F atoms from AsF{sub 6}{sup -} and four F atoms from BF{sub 4}{sup -} anions. When the system BaF{sub 2}/BF{sub 3}/AsF{sub 5}/aHF is made basic with an extra addition of BaF{sub 2}, the compound Ba{sub 2}(BF{sub 4}){sub 2}(AsF{sub 6})(H{sub 3}F{sub 4}) was obtained. It crystallizes in a hexagonal P6{sub 3}/mmc space group with a=6.8709(9) A, c=17.327(8) A, V=708.4(4) A{sup 3} at 200 K, and Z=2. The barium environment in the shape of tetra-capped distorted trigonal prism involves 10 F atoms from four BF{sub 4}{sup -}, three AsF{sub 6}{sup -} and three H{sub 3}F{sub 4}{sup -} anions. All F atoms, except the central atom in H{sub 3}F{sub 4} moiety, act as mu{sub 2}-bridges yielding a complex 3-D structural network. - Graphical abstract: The first three compounds, containing simultaneously tetrahedral BF{sub 4}{sup -} and octahedral AF{sub 6}{sup -} (A=P, As) anions have been synthesized and characterized by Raman spectroscopy and X-ray single crystal diffraction. In the system BaF{sub 2}/BF{sub 3}/PF{sub 5}/anhydrous hydrogen fluoride (aHF) the compound Ba(BF{sub 4})(PF{sub 6}) was isolated. In the analogous system with AsF{sub 5} instead of PF{sub 5} the compound Ba(BF{sub 4})(AsF{sub 6}) was obtained. When the system BaF{sub 2}/BF{sub 3}/AsF{sub 5}/aHF is made basic with an extra addition of BaF{sub 2}, the compound Ba{sub 2}(BF{sub 4}){sub 2}(AsF{sub 6})(H{sub 3}F{sub 4}) was prepared.« less

Connecting [NiFe]- and [FeFe]-Hydrogenases: Mixed-Valence Nickel-Iron Dithiolates With Rotated Structures

PubMed Central

Schilter, David; Rauchfuss, Thomas B.; Stein, Matthias

2012-01-01

A series of mixed-valence iron-nickel dithiolates is described that exhibits structures similar to those of mixed-valence diiron dithiolates. Interaction of tricarbonyl salt [(dppe)Ni(pdt)Fe(CO)3]BF4 ([1]BF4, dppe = Ph2PCH2CH2PPh2, pdtH2 = HSCH2CH2CH2SH) with P-donor ligands (L) afforded the substituted derivatives [(dppe)Ni(pdt)Fe(CO)2L]BF4 incorporating L = PHCy2 ([1a]BF4), PPh(NEt2)2 ([1b]BF4), P(NMe2)3 ([1c]BF4), P(i-Pr)3 ([1d]BF4) and PCy3 ([1e]BF4). The related precursor [(dcpe)Ni(pdt)Fe(CO)3]BF4 ([2]BF4, dcpe = Cy2PCH2CH2PCy2) gave the more electron-rich family of compounds [(dcpe)Ni(pdt)Fe(CO)2L]BF4 for L = PPh2(2-pyridyl) ([2a]BF4), PPh3 ([2b]BF4) and PCy3 ([2c]BF4). For bulky and strongly basic monophosphorus ligands, the salts feature distorted Fe coordination geometries: crystallographic analyses of [1e]BF4 and [2c]BF4 showed they adopt ‘rotated’ Fe(I) centers, in which PCy3 occupies a basal site and one CO ligand partially bridges the Ni and Fe centers. Like the undistorted mixed-valence derivatives, the new class of complexes are described as Ni(II)Fe(I) (S = ½) systems according to EPR spectroscopy, although with attenuated 31P hyperfine interactions. DFT calculations using the BP86, B3LYP, and PBE0 exchange-correlation functionals agree with the structural and spectroscopic data, suggesting that the spin for [1e]+ is localized in a Fe(I)-centered d(z2) orbital, orthogonal to the Fe-P bond. The PCy3 complexes, rare examples of species featuring ‘rotated’ Fe centers, both structurally and spectroscopically resemble mixed-valence diiron dithiolates. Also reproducing the NiS2Fe core of the [NiFe]-H2ase active site, the hybrid models incorporate key features of the two major classes of H2ase. Furthermore, cyclic voltammetry experiments suggest that the highly basic phosphine ligands enable a second oxidation corresponding to the couple [(dxpe)Ni(pdt)Fe(CO)2L]+/2+. The resulting unsaturated 32e− dications represent the closest approach to modeling the highly electrophilic Ni-SIa state. In the case of L = PPh2(2-pyridyl) chelation of this ligand accompanies the second oxidation. PMID:22838645

1-Butyl-3-Methylimidazolium Tetrafluoroborate Film as a Highly Selective Sensing Material for Non-Invasive Detection of Acetone Using a Quartz Crystal Microbalance

PubMed Central

Tao, Wenyan; Lin, Peng; Liu, Sili; Xie, Qingji; Ke, Shanming; Zeng, Xierong

2017-01-01

Breath acetone serves as a biomarker for diabetes. This article reports 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([bmim][BF4]), a type of room temperature ionic liquid (RTIL), as a selective sensing material for acetone. The RTIL sensing layer was coated on a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) for detection. The sensing mechanism is based on a decrease in viscosity and density of the [bmim][BF4] film due to the solubilization of acetone leading to a positive frequency shift in the QCM. Acetone was detected with a linear range from 7.05 to 750 ppmv. Sensitivity and limit of detection were found to be 3.49 Hz/ppmv and 5.0 ppmv, respectively. The [bmim][BF4]-modified QCM sensor demonstrated anti-interference ability to commonly found volatile organic compounds in breath, e.g., isoprene, 1,2-pentadiene, d-limonene, and dl-limonene. This technology is useful for applications in non-invasive early diabetic diagnosis. PMID:28117697

Mixed Ionic Liquid Improves Electrolyte Dynamics in Supercapacitors

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

Osti, Naresh C.; Gallegos, Alejandro; Dyatkin, Boris

Well-tailored mixtures of distinct ionic liquids can act as optimal electrolytes that extend the operating electrochemical window and improve charge storage density in supercapacitors. Here, we explore two room-temperature ionic liquids, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (EmimTFSI) and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (EmimBF 4). We study their electric double-layer behavior in the neat state and as binary mixtures on the external surfaces of onion-like carbon electrodes using quasielastic neutron scattering (QENS) and classical density functional theory techniques. Computational results reveal that a mixture with 4:1 EmimTFSI/EmimBF 4 volume ratio displaces the larger [TFSI –] anions with smaller [BF 4 –] ions, leading to an excessmore » adsorption of [Emim +] cations near the electrode surface. These findings are corroborated by the manifestation of nonuniform ion diffusivity change, complementing the description of structural modifications with changing composition, from QENS measurements. In conclusion, molecular-level understanding of ion packing near electrodes provides insight for design of ionic liquid formulations that enhance the performance of electrochemical energy storage devices.« less

Mixed Ionic Liquid Improves Electrolyte Dynamics in Supercapacitors

DOE PAGES

Osti, Naresh C.; Gallegos, Alejandro; Dyatkin, Boris; ...

2018-04-19

Well-tailored mixtures of distinct ionic liquids can act as optimal electrolytes that extend the operating electrochemical window and improve charge storage density in supercapacitors. Here, we explore two room-temperature ionic liquids, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (EmimTFSI) and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (EmimBF 4). We study their electric double-layer behavior in the neat state and as binary mixtures on the external surfaces of onion-like carbon electrodes using quasielastic neutron scattering (QENS) and classical density functional theory techniques. Computational results reveal that a mixture with 4:1 EmimTFSI/EmimBF 4 volume ratio displaces the larger [TFSI –] anions with smaller [BF 4 –] ions, leading to an excessmore » adsorption of [Emim +] cations near the electrode surface. These findings are corroborated by the manifestation of nonuniform ion diffusivity change, complementing the description of structural modifications with changing composition, from QENS measurements. In conclusion, molecular-level understanding of ion packing near electrodes provides insight for design of ionic liquid formulations that enhance the performance of electrochemical energy storage devices.« less

Cluster transformation of [Cu3(μ3-H)(μ3-BH4)((PPh2)2NH)3](BF4) to [Cu3(μ3-H)(μ2,μ1-S2CH)((PPh2)2NH)3](BF4) via reaction with CS2. X-ray structural characterisation and reactivity of cationic clusters explored by multistage mass spectrometry and computational studies.

PubMed

Ma, Howard Z; Li, Jiaye; Canty, Allan J; O'Hair, Richard A J

2017-11-07

The copper nanocluster [Cu 3 (μ 3 -H)(μ 3 -BH 4 )L Ph 3 ](BF 4 ), 1a·BF4 (L Ph = (PPh 2 ) 2 NH = dppa), can potentially react with substrates at either the coordinated hydride or borohydride sites. Reaction of 1a·BF4 with CS 2 has given rise to [Cu 3 (μ 3 -H)(μ 2 ,μ 1 -S 2 CH)L Ph 3 ](BF 4 ), (2a·BF4), which was structurally characterised using electrospray ionisation (ESI) with high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), X-ray crystallography, NMR, IR and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The copper(i) atoms adopt a planar trinuclear Cu 3 geometry coordinated on the bottom face by a μ 3 -hydride, on the top face by a μ 2 ,μ 1 -dithioformate and surrounded by three bridging L Ph ligands. Reaction of 1a·BF4 with elemental sulfur gives the known cluster [Cu 4 (L Ph -H + 2S) 3 ](BF 4 ), (3·BF4), which was structurally characterised via X-ray crystallography. ESI-MS of 2a·BF4 produces [Cu 3 (H)(S 2 CH)L Ph 3 ] + and its gas-phase ion chemistry was examined under multistage mass spectrometry conditions using collision-induced dissociation (CID). The primary product, [Cu 3 (H)(S 2 CH)L Ph 2 ] + , formed via ligand loss, undergoes further fragmentation via loss of thioformaldehyde to give [Cu 3 (S)L Ph 2 ] + . DFT calculations exploring rearrangement and fragmentation of the model system [Cu 3 (H)(S 2 CH)L Me 2 ] + (L Me = (PMe 2 ) 2 NH = dmpa) provide a feasible mechanism. Thus, coupling of the coordinated hydride with the dithioformate ligands gives [Cu 3 (S 2 CH 2 )L Me 2 ] + , which then undergoes CH 2 S extrusion via C-S bond cleavage to give [Cu 3 (S)L Me 2 ] + .

Computational and Experimental Investigation of Li-doped Ionic Liquid Electrolytes: [pyr14][tfsi], [pyr13][fsi], and [EMIM][BF4

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haskins, Justin B.; Bennett, William R.; Wu, James J.; Hernandez, Dionne M.; Borodin, Oleg; Monk, Joshua D.; Bauschlicher, Charles W.; Lawson, John W.

2014-01-01

We employ molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and experiment to investigate the structure, thermodynamics, and transport of N-methyl-N-butylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsufonyl)imide ([pyr14][TFSI]), N -methyl-N-propylpyrrolidinium bis(fluorosufonyl)imide ([pyr13][FSI]), and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium boron tetrafluoride ([EMIM][BF4]), as a function of Li-salt mole fraction (0.05 xLi+ 0.33) and temperature (298 K T 393 K). Structurally, Li+ is shown to be solvated by three anion neigh- bors in [pyr14][TFSI] and four anion neighbors in both [pyr13][FSI] and [EMIM][BF4], and at all levels of xLi+ we find the presence of lithium aggregates. Pulsed field gradient spin-echo NMR measurements of diffusion and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements of ionic conductivity are made for the neat ionic liquids as well as 0.5 molal solutions of Li-salt in the ionic liquids. Bulk ionic liquid properties (density, diffusion, viscosity, and ionic conductivity) are obtained with MD and show excellent agreement with experiment. While the diffusion exhibits a systematic decrease with increasing xLi+, the contribution of Li+ to ionic conductivity increases until reach- ing a saturation doping level of xLi+ 0.10. Comparatively, the Li+ conductivity of [pyr14][TFSI] is an order of magnitude lower than that of the other liquids, which range between 0.1-0.3 mScm. Our transport results also demonstrate the necessity of long MD simulation runs ( 200 ns) required to converge transport properties at room T. The differences in Li+ transport are reflected in the residence times of Li+ with the anions (Li), which are revealed to be much larger for [pyr14][TFSI] (up to 100 ns at the highest doping levels) than in either [EMIM][BF4] or [pyr13][FSI]. Finally, to comment on the relative kinetics of Li+ transport in each liquid, we find that while the net motion of Li+ with its solvation shell (vehicular) significantly contributes to net diffusion in all liquids, the importance of transport through anion exchange (hopping) increases at high xLi+ and in liquids with large anions.

Body fat percentage is associated with cardiometabolic dysregulation in BMI-defined normal weight subjects.

PubMed

Shea, J L; King, M T C; Yi, Y; Gulliver, W; Sun, G

2012-09-01

Nearly 25% of normal weight individuals display abnormal metabolic profiles associated with obesity. As a wide range in body fat percentage (%BF) exists for BMI-defined normal weight individuals, we investigated whether elevated %BF (determined using DXA) was associated with cardiometabolic dysregulation among 977 normal weight subjects (192 men, 785 women) from the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. BMI and %BF were measured after a 12-h fasting period. Cardiometabolic abnormalities considered included elevated triglyceride, glucose and hsCRP levels, decreased HDL cholesterol, insulin resistance, and hypertension. Subjects were classified as metabolically healthy (0 or 1 cardiometabolic abnormality) or abnormal (≥2 cardiometabolic abnormalities) and divided into sex-specific %BF tertiles as follows: low (≤15.2% men, ≤29.7% women), medium (15.3-20.7%% men, 29.8-34.9%% women) and high (≥20.8% men, ≥35.0% women). The prevalence of the metabolically abnormal phenotype was higher among medium and high %BF subjects (12.0% and 19.5%, respectively) compared to the low group (7.4%; p < 0.05). Furthermore, the odds of being metabolically abnormal were 1.61 (95% CI 0.94-2.77) for medium %BF subjects compared to the low group and nearly tripled for high %BF subjects (OR 2.73, 95% CI 1.63-4.86). ORs remained significant after further adjustment for waist circumference. Our findings indicate that those with elevated %BF are at increased risk of developing cardiometabolic disease despite having a normal BMI. Future development of adequate screening tools to identify these individuals is crucial to the prevention of obesity-associated disease. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Preparation and Characterisation of Linear Low-Density Polyethylene / Thermoplastic Starch Blends Filled with Banana Fibre

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kahar, A. W. M.; Ann, L. Ju

2017-06-01

In this study, the influence of banana fibre (BF) loading using sodium hydroxide (NaOH) pre-treated and succinic anhydride-treated (SA) BF on the mechanical properties of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE)/thermoplastic starch (TPS) matrix is investigated. LLDPE/TPS/BF composites were developed under different BF conditions, with and without chemical modifications with the BF content ranging from 5% to 30% based on the total composite. The tensile strength showed an increase with an increase of fibre content up to 10%, thereby decreasing gradually beyond this level. NaOH pre-treated and SA treated BF added with LLDPE/TPS composite displays a higher tensile strength as compared to untreated BF in LLDPE/TPS composites. Thermal behaviour of the BF incorporated in LLDPE/TPS composite was characterised using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). This showed that SA treated BF exhibits better thermal stability, compared to other composites. This is because of the improvement in interfacial adhesion existing between both the fibre and matrix. In addition, a morphology study confirmed that pre-treated and treated BF had excellent interfacial adhesion with LLDPE/TPS matrix, leading to better mechanical properties of resultant composites.

Assessment of bronchial and pulmonary blood supply in non-small cell lung cancer subtypes using computed tomography perfusion.

PubMed

Nguyen-Kim, Thi Dan Linh; Frauenfelder, Thomas; Strobel, Klaus; Veit-Haibach, Patrick; Huellner, Martin W

2015-03-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the dual blood supply of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and its association with tumor subtype, size, and stage, using computed tomography perfusion (CTP). A total of 54 patients (median age, 65 years; range, 42-79 years; 15 women, 39 men) with suspected lung cancer underwent a CTP scan of the lung tumor. Pulmonary and bronchial vasculature regions of interest were used to calculate independently CTP parameters (blood flow [BF], blood volume [BV], and mean transit time [MTT]) of the tumor tissue. The mean and maximum pulmonary and bronchial perfusion indexes (PImean and PImax) were calculated. The tumoral volume and the largest tumoral diameter were assessed. Differences in CTP parameters and indexes among NSCLC subtypes, tumor stages and tumor dimensions were analyzed using non-parametric tests. According to biopsy, 37 patients had NSCLC (22 adenocarcinomas [ACs], 8 squamous cell carcinomas [SCCs], 7 large-cell carcinomas [LCC]). The mean bronchial BF/pulmonary BF, bronchial BV/pulmonary BV, and bronchial MTT/pulmonary MTT was 41.2 ± 30.0/36.9 ± 24.2 mL/100 mL/min, 11.4 ± 9.7/10.4 ± 9.4 mL/100 mL, and 11.4 ± 4.3/14.9 ± 4.4 seconds, respectively. In general, higher bronchial BF than pulmonary BF was observed in NSCLC (P = 0.014). Using a tumoral volume cutoff of 3.5 cm, a significant difference in pulmonary PImax was found (P = 0.028). There was a significantly higher mean pulmonary BF in LCCs and SCCs compared with ACs (P = 0.018 and P = 0.044, respectively), whereas the mean bronchial BF was only significantly higher in LCCs compared with ACs (P = 0.024). Correspondingly, the PImax was significantly higher in LCCs and SCCs than in ACs (P = 0.001 for both). Differences between bronchial and pulmonary PImean and PImax among T stages and Union Internationale Contre le Cancer stages were not statistically significant (P values ranging from 0.691 to 0.753). The known dual blood supply of NSCLC, which depends on tumor size and histological subtype, is reflected in CTP parameters, with parameters depending both on tumor size and histological subtype. This has to be accounted for when analyzing NSCLC with CTP.

A novel Streptomyces spp. integration vector derived from the S. venezuelae phage, SV1.

PubMed

Fayed, Bahgat; Younger, Ellen; Taylor, Gabrielle; Smith, Margaret C M

2014-05-30

Integrating vectors based on the int/attP loci of temperate phages are convenient and used widely, particularly for cloning genes in Streptomyces spp. We have constructed and tested a novel integrating vector based on g27, encoding integrase, and attP site from the phage, SV1. This plasmid, pBF3 integrates efficiently in S. coelicolor and S. lividans but surprisingly fails to generate stable integrants in S. venezuelae, the natural host for phage SV1. pBF3 promises to be a useful addition to the range of integrating vectors currently available for Streptomyces molecular genetics.

Exploration of the binding modes of buffalo PGRP1 receptor complexed with meso-diaminopimelic acid and lysine-type peptidoglycans by molecular dynamics simulation and free energy calculation.

PubMed

Sahoo, Bikash Ranjan; Dubey, Praveen Kumar; Goyal, Shubham; Bhoi, Gopal Krushna; Lenka, Santosh Kumar; Maharana, Jitendra; Pradhan, Sukanta Kumar; Kataria, Ranjit Singh

2014-09-05

The peptidoglycan recognition proteins (PGRPs) are the key components of innate-immunity, and are highly specific for the recognition of bacterial peptidoglycans (PGN). Among different mammalian PGRPs, the PGRP1 binds to murein PGN of Gram-positive bacteria (lysine-type) and also have bactericidal activity towards Gram-negative bacteria (diaminopimelic acid or Dap-type). Buffaloes are the major sources of milk and meat in Asian sub-continents and are highly exposed to bacterial infections. The PGRP activates the innate-immune signaling, but their studies has been confined to limited species due to lack of structural and functional information. So, to understand the structural constituents, 3D model of buffalo PGRP1 (bfPGRP1) was constructed and conformational and dynamics properties of bfPGRP1 was studied. The bfPGRP1 model highly resembled human and camel PGRP structure, and shared a highly flexible N-terminus and centrally placed L-shaped cleft. Docking simulation of muramyl-tripeptide, tetrapeptide, pentapeptide-Dap-(MTP-Dap, MTrP-Dap and MPP-Dap) and lysine-type (MTP-Lys, MTrP-Lys and MPP-Lys) in AutoDock 4.2 and ArgusLab 4.0.1 anticipated β1, α2, α4, β4, and loops connecting β1-α2, α2-β2, β3-β4 and α4-α5 as the key interacting domains. The bfPGRP1-ligand complex molecular dynamics simulation followed by free binding energy (BE) computation conceded BE values of -18.30, -35.53, -41.80, -25.03, -24.62 and -22.30 kJ mol(-1) for MTP-Dap, MTrP-Dap, MPP-Dap, MTP-Lys, MTrP-Lys and MPP-Lys, respectively. The groove-surface and key binding residues involved in PGN-Dap and Lys-type interaction intended by the molecular docking, and were also accompanied by significant BE values directed their importance in pharmacogenomics, and warrants further in vivo studies for drug targeting and immune signaling pathways exploration. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Biofiltration of paint solvent mixtures in two reactor types: overloading by polar components.

PubMed

Paca, Jan; Halecky, Martin; Misiaczek, Ondrej; Kozliak, Evguenii I; Jones, Kim

2012-01-01

Steady-state performances of a trickle bed reactor (TBR) and a biofilter (BF) in loading experiments with increasing inlet concentrations of polar solvents, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, methyl isobutyl ketone and n-butyl acetate, were investigated, along with the system's dynamic responses. Throughout the entire experimentation time, a constant loading rate of aromatic components of 4 g(c)·m(-3)·h(-1) was maintained to observe the interactions between the polar substrates and aromatic hydrocarbons. Under low combined substrate loadings, the BF outperformed TBR not only in the removal of aromatic hydrocarbons but also in the removal of polar substrates. However, increasing the loading rate of polar components above the threshold value of 31-36 g(c)·m(-3)·h(-1) resulted in a steep and significant drop in the removal efficiencies of both polar (except for butyl acetate) and hydrophobic components, which was more pronounced in the BF; so the relative TBR/BF efficiency became reversed under such overloading conditions. A step-drop of the overall OL(POLAR) (combined loading by polar air pollutants) from overloading values to 7 g(c)·m(-3)·h(-1) resulted in an increase of all pollutant removal efficiencies, although in TBR the recovery was preceded by lag periods lasting between 5 min (methyl ethyl ketone) to 3.7 h (acetone). The occurrence of lag periods in the TBR recovery was, in part, due to the saturation of mineral medium with water-soluble polar solvents, particularly, acetone. The observed bioreactor behavior was consistent with the biological steps being rate-limiting.

High performance of nitrogen and phosphorus removal in an electrolysis-integrated biofilter.

PubMed

Gao, Y; Xie, Y W; Zhang, Q; Yu, Y X; Yang, L Y

A novel electrolysis-integrated biofilter system was developed in this study to evaluate the intensified removal of nitrogen and phosphorus from contaminated water. Two laboratory-scale biofilter systems were established, one with electrolysis (E-BF) and one without electrolysis (BF) as control. The dynamics of intensified nitrogen and phosphorus removal and the changes of inflow and outflow water qualities were also evaluated. The total nitrogen (TN) removal rate was 94.4% in our newly developed E-BF, but only 74.7% in the control BF. Ammonium removal rate was up to 95% in biofilters with or without electrolysis integration with an influent ammonium concentration of 40 mg/L, and the accumulation of nitrate and nitrite was much lower in the effluent of E-BF than that of BF. Thus electrolysis plays an important role in TN removal especially the nitrate and nitrite removal. Phosphorus removal was significantly enhanced, exceeding 90% in E-BF by chemical precipitation, physical adsorption, and flocculation of phosphorus because of the in situ formation of ferric ions by the anodizing of sacrificial iron anodes. Results from this study indicate that the electrolysis integrated biofilter is a promising solution for intensified nitrogen and phosphorus removal.

Bioequivalence of budesonide plus formoterol (BF) Spiromax® and BF Turbohaler® (with and without charcoal block) in healthy volunteers.

PubMed

Weisfeld, Lori; Shu, Youyi; Shah, Tushar P

2015-07-01

Budesonide formoterol (BF) Spiromax® is a breath-actuated dry-powder inhaler designed to deliver similar combinations of budesonide and formoterol as Symbicort® Turbohaler®. We performed two studies to demonstrate pharmacokinetic (PK) equivalence of BF Spiromax with BF Turbohaler. Two single-center, open-label, randomized, 5-period crossover studies were performed. The first study compared BF Spiromax 160/4.5 μg with BF Turbohaler 200/6 μg, while the second study compared BF Spiromax 320/9 μg with BF Turbohaler 400/12 μg. All treatments were administered with and without charcoal. PK parameters were calculated by measuring plasma drug concentrations from blood samples taken pre-dose and up to 24 hours post-dose. In each study, 90 healthy volunteers were randomized. Bioequivalence of BF Spiromax with BF Turbohaler was demonstrated for budesonide and formoterol (AUC0-t and Cmax (90% confidence intervals of the geometric mean between-device ratios for both parameters were within the predefined range of 0.80-1.25 in both studies)). Equivalence was observed without use of charcoal (overall absorption post-inhalation) and with charcoal (pulmonary absorption). There were no major differences between treatments in tmax for either budesonide or formoterol. All study treatments were well tolerated (one treatment-emergent adverse event (TEAE) in the medium-dose study and four TEAEs in the high-dose study). These studies indicate that BF Spiromax (±charcoal block) is bioequivalent to BF Turbohaler with respect to the PK parameters assessed. Single doses of BF Spiromax were well tolerated; the overall safety profile of BF Spiromax and BF Turbohaler was similar.

Calculating the Maximum Density of the Surface Packing of Ions in Ionic Liquids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kislenko, S. A.; Moroz, Yu. O.; Karu, K.; Ivaništšev, V. B.; Fedorov, M. V.

2018-05-01

The maximum density of monolayer packing on a graphene surface is calculated by means of molecular dynamics (MD) for ions of characteristic size and symmetry: 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium [BMIM]+, tetrabutylammonium [TBA]+, tetrafluoroborate [BF4]-, dicyanamide [DCA]-, and bis(trifluoromethane) sulfonimide [TFSI]-. The characteristic orientations of ions in a closely packed monolayer are found. It is shown that the formation of a closely packed monolayer is possible for [DCA]- and [BF4]- anions only at surface charges that exceed the limit of the electrochemical stability of the corresponding ionic liquids. For the [TBA]+ cation, a monolayer structure can be observed at the charge of nearly 30 μC/cm2 attainable in electrochemical experiment.

Stir bar sorptive extraction and high performance liquid chromatographic determination of carvedilol in human serum using two different polymeric phases and an ionic liquid as desorption solvent.

PubMed

Talebpour, Zahra; Taraji, Maryam; Adib, Nuoshin

2012-05-04

This article presents a method employing stir bar coated with a film of poly (methyl methacrylate/ethyleneglycol dimethacrylate) (PA-EG) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) in combination with liquid desorption (LD) using ionic liquid, followed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) equipped with ultraviolet (UV) detection for the determination of carvedilol in human serum samples. Stir bar sorptive extraction (SBSE) variables, such as desorption and extraction time and temperature, desorption solvent and pH of the matrix were optimized, in order to achieve suitable analytical sensitivity in a short period of time. Also, the concentration effect of 1-methyl-3-octylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate [Omim][BF4] ionic liquid on the efficiency of LD was investigated. A comparison between PA-EG/SBSE and PDMS/SBSE was made by calculating the experimental recovery and partition coefficient (K), where PA-EG phase demonstrated to be an excellent alternative for the enrichment of the carvedilol from serum samples. The effect of [Omim][BF4] on carryover was studied and no carryover was observed. Under optimized experimental conditions, the analytical performance showed excellent linear dynamic range, with correlation coefficients higher than 0.999 and limits of detection and quantification of 0.3 and 1.0 ng mL(-1), respectively. Intra- and inter-day recovery ranged from 94 to 103% and the coefficients of variations were less than 3.2%. The proposed method was shown to be simple, highly sensitive and suitable for the measurement of trace concentration levels of carvedilol in biological fluid media. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Texture and acceptability of goat meat frankfurters processed with 3 different sources of fat.

PubMed

Bratcher, C L; Dawkins, N L; Solaiman, S; Kerth, C R; Bartlett, J R

2011-05-01

The objective of this research was to evaluate the texture and consumer acceptability of goat meat frankfurter formulations with no added fat (NAF), beef fat (BF), or canola oil (CO). Consumer sensory evaluation, fat, and moisture and texture profile analyses were performed on goat meat frankfurters produced with the fat sources BF, CO, and NAF. For sensory evaluations, NAF was less tender (P = 0.007; 4.90 vs. 4.11 and 4.35 for BF and CO, respectively) and the flavor was liked less (P = 0.004; 4.59 vs. 3.83 and 4.30 for BF and CO, respectively); BF was scored as the juiciest (P = 0.003; 3.86 vs. 4.49 and 4.58 for CO and NAF, respectively); and CO had the least amount of flavor (P = 0.029; 3.65 vs. 3.12 and 3.10 for BF and NAF, respectively). Moisture was least (P < 0.001) in CO (46.59%), followed by BF (48.57%) and NAF (55.80%). The amount of fat was not different (P = 0.761) in BF (24.36%) or CO (24.43%) but was less (P < 0.001) in NAF (9.06%), as expected. The NAF had the most protein (P < 0.001; 34.14%), followed by CO (27.98%) and BF (26.07%). For texture profile analyses, NAF had the least hardness value (P = 0.008; 3.92 vs. 4.48 and 4.40 for BF and CO, respectively) and least chewiness value (P = 0.026; 2.89 vs. 3.39 and 3.29 for BF and CO, respectively). Beef fat and CO were not different for hardness (P = 0.596) or chewiness (P = 0.530). No differences were observed in springiness (P = 0.954) or resilience (P = 0.561). The sensory panelists tended to prefer BF for overall acceptability. Results from these data revealed that value-added goat meat products received acceptable sensory scores; therefore, continued research and development will greatly expand the knowledge of goat meat and increase the acceptance of value-added products.

The properties of the Lewis acid-base complexes of boron trifluoride with some carbon dioxide analogues. An ab initio study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ford, Thomas A.

2017-07-01

The properties of nine binary Lewis acid-base complexes, formed between boron trifluoride, on the one hand, and the carbon dioxide analogues XCY (X, Y = O, S, Se) on the other, have been investigated by means of ab initio calculations. The properties of most interest are the structures, the interaction energies, the vibrational spectra and the natural orbital population changes. The structures of the complexes bound through either a sulphur or a selenium atom are remarkably similar, and feature a FB … XC fragment in a trans arrangement, with FB … X and B … XC angles close to 90°. The adducts bound through oxygen have quite different structures, with a B … OC angle close to 150° in the case of BF3·OCO and with linear B … OCS and B … OCSe moieties in the other two cases. The binding energies of all nine complexes span a very narrow range, and are all less than 10 kJ mol-1. The changes of the intramolecular BF, XC and CY bond lengths are small, but they vary in a systematic way with the strength of interaction. The wavenumber shifts of the modes of the BF3 and XCY fragments are also fairly insignificant, except for the symmetric bending mode of the BF3 molecule, where the shifts are found to be in the range from -20 to -40 cm-1. The similarities and differences in the properties of the three families of adducts have been rationalized by reference to the redistribution of the natural orbital populations resulting from complex formation.

Early skin-to-skin contact and breast-feeding behavior in term neonates: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Thukral, Anu; Sankar, Mari Jeeva; Agarwal, Ramesh; Gupta, Nandita; Deorari, Ashok K; Paul, Vinod K

2012-01-01

To evaluate if early skin-to-skin contact (SSC) improves breast-feeding (BF) behavior and exclusive BF (EBF) rates in term infants at 48 h of age. Term infants born by normal delivery were randomized at birth to either early SSC (n = 20) or conventional care (controls; n = 21). SSC was continued for at least 2 h after birth. Subsequently, one BF session of the infants was video recorded at about 48 h of life. The primary outcome, infants' BF behavior at 48 h of life, was assessed using the modified infant Breast-Feeding Assessment Tool (BAT; a score consisting of infant's readiness to feed, sucking, rooting and latching, each item scored from 0 to 3) by three independent masked observers. The secondary outcomes were EBF rates at 48 h and 6 weeks of age and salivary cortisol level of infants at 6 h of age. Baseline characteristics including birth weight and gestation were comparable between the two groups. There was no significant difference in the BAT scores between the groups [median: 8, interquartile range (IQR) 5-10 vs. median 9, IQR 5-10; p = 0.6]. EBF rates at 48 h and at 6 weeks were, however, significantly higher in the early-SSC group than in the control group [95.0 vs. 38.1%; relative risk (RR): 2.5, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.4-4.3 and 90 vs. 28.6%; RR: 3.2, 95% CI: 1.6-6.3]. Early SSC did not improve BF behavior at discharge but significantly improved the EBF rates of term neonates. Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Langmuir Probe Diagnostics of Pulsed Plasma Doping System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lei, Yu; Overzet, Lawrence J.; Felch, Susan B.; Fang, Ziwei; Koo, Bon-Woong; Goeckner, Matthew J.

2002-10-01

Pulsed plasma doping (P2LAD) is a potential solution to implement ultra-shallow junctions. In this study, Langmuir probe diagnostics techniques were investigated thoroughly for its application to P2LAD system, and the current sensing scheme using batteries and a 'downstairs' load resistor turned out to be the most reliable. Severe limitations of current transformers were found in diagnostics of pulsed plasma. A floating probe was proven to be good at monitoring the disturbances of the Langmuir probe and the cathode voltage. With the above technique, time-resolved Langmuir probe measurements have been carried out in a P2LAD system. The Langmuir probe data in Ar plasma indicate that during a 20 microns long implant pulse the plasma density ranges from 1E9 1E10 cm-3 and the electron temperature ranges from 0.4 to 14 eV. Between the pulses, the density keeps at the high level for 30 ms and then decays exponentially until reaching the range of 3E8 1E9 cm-3, which demonstrates the presence of residual plasma between pulses. A non-zero plasma density during the afterglow is also observed for BF3 plasma. Significant amounts of primary electron and electron beams are present during the ignition and ensuing steady region in both Ar and BF3 plasmas while they are much stronger in BF3 plasma. Plasma density is observed to increase with cathode voltage and pressure while the electron temperature is mainly influenced by the pressure. An overshoot of the cathode voltage during the afterglow region was found, and it significantly influences the plasma potential during the afterglow.

Near Full-Length Characterization and Population Dynamics of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type I Circulating Recombinant Form 42 (CRF42_BF) in Luxembourg.

PubMed

Struck, Daniel; Roman, François; De Landtsheer, Sébastien; Servais, Jean-Yves; Lambert, Christine; Masquelier, Cécile; Venard, Véronique; Ruelle, Jean; Nijhuis, Monique; Schmit, Jean-Claude; Seguin-Devaux, Carole

2015-05-01

A new recombinant form representing a mosaic of HIV-1 subtype B and F1 and designated as CRF42_BF was identified in Luxembourg. We confirmed the inedited nature of CRF42_BF by near full-length genome characterization and retrieved a possible ancestor originating from Brazil. The demographic history of CRF42_BF in Luxembourg using Bayesian coalescent-based methods was investigated. The exponential phase of the logistic growth happened in a very short time period of approximately 5 months associated with a high mean rate of population growth of 15.02 new infections per year. However, CRF42_BF was not characterized by either a higher ex vivo replication capacity in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) or a higher ex vivo transmission efficiency from monocyte-derived dendritic cells to PBMCs as compared to B and F1 viruses. These data do not support a high pathogenic potential of CFR42_BF but rather an initial bursting spread of the recombinant probably due to a more favorable transmission route.

Variability and Reproducibility of 3rd-generation dual-source dynamic volume perfusion CT Parameters in Comparison to MR-perfusion Parameters in Rectal Cancer.

PubMed

Sudarski, Sonja; Henzler, Thomas; Floss, Teresa; Gaa, Tanja; Meyer, Mathias; Haubenreisser, Holger; Schoenberg, Stefan O; Attenberger, Ulrike I

2018-05-02

To compare in patients with untreated rectal cancer quantitative perfusion parameters calculated from 3 rd -generation dual-source dynamic volume perfusion CT (dVPCT) with 3-Tesla-MR-perfusion with regard to data variability and tumour differentiation. In MR-perfusion, plasma flow (PF), plasma volume (PV) and mean transit time (MTT) were assessed in two measurements (M1 and M2) by the same reader. In dVPCT, blood flow (BF), blood volume (BV), MTT and permeability (PERM) were assessed respectively. CT dose values were calculated. 20 patients (60 ± 13 years) were analysed. Intra-individual and intra-reader variability of duplicate MR-perfusion measurements was higher compared to duplicate dVPCT measurements. dVPCT-derived BF, BV and PERM could differentiate between tumour and normal rectal wall (significance level for M1 and M2, respectively, regarding BF: p < 0.0001*/0.0001*; BV: p < 0.0001*/0.0001*; MTT: p = 0.93/0.39; PERM: p < 0.0001*/0.0001*), with MR-perfusion this was true for PF and PV (p-values M1/M2 for PF: p = 0.04*/0.01*; PV: p = 0.002*/0.003*; MTT: p = 0.70/0.27*). Mean effective dose of CT-staging incl. dVPCT was 29 ± 6 mSv (20 ± 5 mSv for dVPCT alone). In conclusion, dVPCT has a lower data variability than MR-perfusion while both dVPCT and MR-perfusion could differentiate tumour tissue from normal rectal wall. With 3 rd -generation dual-source CT dVPCT could be included in a standard CT-staging without exceeding national dose reference values.

Lactate and glutamate dynamics during prolonged stimulation of the rat barrel cortex suggest adaptation of cerebral glucose and oxygen metabolism.

PubMed

Sonnay, Sarah; Duarte, João M N; Just, Nathalie

2017-03-27

A better understanding of BOLD responses stems from a better characterization of the brain's ability to metabolize glucose and oxygen. Non-invasive techniques such as functional magnetic resonance spectroscopy (fMRS) have thus been developed allowing for the reproducible assessment of metabolic changes during barrel cortex (S1BF) activations in rats. The present study aimed at further exploring the role of neurotransmitters on local and temporal changes in vascular and metabolic function in S1BF. fMRS and fMRI data were acquired sequentially in α-chloralose anesthetized rats during 32-min rest and trigeminal nerve stimulation periods. During stimulation, concentrations of lactate (Lac) and glutamate (Glu) increased in S1BF by 0.23±0.05 and 0.34±0.05μmol/g respectively in S1BF. Dynamic analysis of metabolite concentrations allowed estimating changes in cerebral metabolic rates of glucose (ΔCMR Glc ) and oxygen (ΔCMR O2 ). Findings confirmed a prevalence of oxidative metabolism during prolonged S1BF activation. Habituation led to a significant BOLD magnitude decline as a function of time while both total ΔCMR Glc and ΔCMR O2 remained constant revealing adaptation of glucose and oxygen metabolisms to support ongoing trigeminal nerve stimulation. Copyright © 2017 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of hypohydration on thermoregulatory responses in men with low and high body fat exercising in the heat.

PubMed

Tucker, Matthew A; Caldwell, Aaron R; Butts, Cory L; Robinson, Forrest B; Reynebeau, Haley C; Kavouras, Stavros A; McDermott, Brendon P; Washington, Tyrone A; Turner, Ronna C; Ganio, Matthew S

2017-01-01

It is unclear whether men with low body fat (LO-BF) have impaired thermoregulation during exercise heat stress compared with those with high body fat (HI-BF) when euhydration (EU) is maintained. Furthermore, in LO-BF individuals, hypohydration (HY) impairs thermoregulatory responses during exercise heat stress, but it is unknown whether this occurs in HI-BF counterparts. The purpose of this study was to test the hypotheses that men with HI-BF have impaired thermoregulatory responses to exercise heat stress and that HY further exacerbates these impairments vs. LO-BF. Men with LO-BF [n = 11, body mass (BM) 73.9 ± 8.5 kg, BF% 13.6 ± 3.8] and HI-BF (n = 9, BM 89.6 ± 6.9 kg, BF% 30.2 ± 4.1), in a randomized crossover design, performed 60 min of upright cycling in a hot environment (40.3 ± 0.4°C, relative humidity 32.5 ± 1.9%) at a metabolic heat production rate of 6 W/kg BM and finished exercise either euhydrated (EU; 0.3 ± 1.2 vs. 0.3 ± 0.9% BM loss) or HY (-2.5 ± 1.1 vs. -1.7 ± 1.5% BM loss). Changes in rectal temperature (ΔT rec ), local sweat rate (ΔLSR), and cutaneous vascular conductance (ΔCVC; % max ) were measured throughout. When EU, LO-BF and HI-BF had similar CVC and LSR responses (P > 0.05); however, LO-BF had a lower ΔT rec vs. HI-BF (0.92 ± 0.35 vs. 1.31 ± 0.32°C, P = 0.021). Compared with EU, HY increased end-exercise ΔT rec in LO-BF (0.47 ± 0.37°C, P < 0.01) but not in HI-BF (-0.06 ± 0.29°C, P > 0.05). HY, compared with EU, did not affect ΔLSR and ΔCVC in either group (P > 0.05). We conclude that, when euhydrated, men with HI-BF have a greater increase in T rec vs. LO-BF but similar CVC and LSR. HY exacerbates increases in T rec in LO-BF but not HI-BF. This is the first known investigation to compare thermoregulatory responses to exercise heat stress between men with high and low body fat (BF) in a physiologically uncompensable environment while simultaneously examining the confounding influence of hydration status. Both groups demonstrated similar sweating and cutaneous vasodilatory responses when euhydrated, despite vast differences in rectal temperature. Furthermore, in contrast to low BF, individuals with high BF demonstrated similar increases in core body temperature when either euhydrated or hypohydrated. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

Computer Simulation Study of Graphene Oxide Supercapacitors: Charge Screening Mechanism.

PubMed

Park, Sang-Won; DeYoung, Andrew D; Dhumal, Nilesh R; Shim, Youngseon; Kim, Hyung J; Jung, YounJoon

2016-04-07

Graphene oxide supercapacitors in the parallel plate configuration are studied via molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The full range of electrode oxidation from 0 to 100% is examined by oxidizing the graphene surface with hydroxyl groups. Two different electrolytes, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (EMI(+)BF4(-)) as an ionic liquid and its 1.3 M solution in acetonitrile as an organic electrolyte, are considered. While the area-specific capacitance tends to decrease with increasing electrode oxidation for both electrolytes, its details show interesting differences between the organic electrolyte and ionic liquid, including the extent of decrease. For detailed insight into these differences, the screening mechanisms of electrode charges by electrolytes and their variations with electrode oxidation are analyzed with special attention paid to the aspects shared by and the contrasts between the organic electrolyte and ionic liquid.

The effect of biofiltration on red blood cells 2.3-diphosphoglycerate and pH.

PubMed

Umimoto, K; Hirai, Y; Hayashi, T; Tanaka, H

2000-12-01

To investigate the effect of biofiltration (BF) on the ability of blood to supply oxygen to the peripheral tissues, a 2 week crossover study was conducted with bicarbonate hemodialysis (BcHD) and BF using 5 male patients with diabetic renal failure as subjects. BcHD and BF were performed for 4 h and 3.5 h per session, respectively. Blood gases, the pH of red blood cells (RBC-pH), and 2. 3-diphosphoglycerate in RBC (RBC-2.3DPG) were measured during each treatment. After a 2 week BF treatment, the plasma HCO3- at the beginning of BF was significantly higher than that of BcHD (p < 0.01), and the blood pH improved with an elevated plasma bicarbonate level (p < 0.05). The RBC-pH at the beginning of BF was higher than that of BcHD (p < 0.05) although the RBC-pH at the end of both therapies increased to similar levels. The RBC-2.3DPG during BcHD remained unchanged, but during BF significantly increased (p < 0.05). Metabolic acidosis was significantly improved by BF with its effect reaching to the RBC intracellular level. The improved metabolic acidosis might occur as a result of the increase in RBC-2.3DPG during BF. This increase in RBC-2.3DPG has the effect of reducing the affinity of oxygen for hemoglobin and allows more oxygen to be delivered to the peripheral tissues although the increase in RBC-pH by dialysis restricts the dissociation of oxygen from hemoglobin.

Calcitonin-typical suppression of osteoclastic activity by amphioxus calcitonin superfamily peptides and insights into the evolutionary conservation and diversity of their structures.

PubMed

Sekiguchi, Toshio; Shiraishi, Akira; Satake, Honoo; Kuwasako, Kenji; Takahashi, Hiroki; Sato, Masayuki; Urata, Makoto; Wada, Shuichi; Endo, Masato; Ikari, Takahiro; Hattori, Atsuhiko; Srivastav, Ajai K; Suzuki, Nobuo

2017-05-15

Calcitonin (CT) is a hormone that decreases serum calcium level by suppressing osteoclastic activity in the vertebrate bone. In vertebrates, the structure-function relationship of CTs has been studied extensively. We recently identified three CT superfamily peptides, Bf-CTFP1 to 3, and clarified the molecular and functional characteristics of their receptor and receptor activity-modifying protein in amphioxus, Branchiostoma floridae. However, the CT activity of Bf-CTFPs has yet to be investigated. In the present study, a functional analysis of Bf-CTFPs was performed using goldfish scales having both osteoclasts and osteoblasts. All Bf-CTFPs suppressed osteoclastic activity via a goldfish CT receptor. Although the primary amino acid sequences of the Bf-CTFPs showed low sequence similarity to vertebrate CTs, Bf-CTFP1 to 3 share three amino acids, Thr 25 , Thr 27 , and Pro 32 -NH 2 , that are required for receptor binding, with salmon CT. Moreover, homology model analysis revealed that the Bf-CTFPs form alpha-helical structures. The alpha-helical position and length of Bf-CTFP1 and 2 were conserved with those of a highly potent ligand, teleost CT. Interestingly, the composition of the alpha-helix of Bf-CTFP3 differed from those of teleost CT, despite that the action of Bf-CTFP3 on goldfish scales was the same as that of Bf-CTFP1 and 2. Collectively, the present study provides new insights into the structure-function relationship of CT and its functional evolution in chordates. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of NaBF4 + NaF on the Tensile and Impact Properties of Al-Si-Mg-Fe Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Zongning; Wang, Tongmin; Zhao, Yufei; Zheng, Yuanping; Kang, Huijun

2015-05-01

NaBF4 + NaF were found to play three roles, i.e., Fe-eliminator, grain refiner, and eutectic modifier, in treating A356 alloy with a high Fe content. The joint effects led to significant improvement in both tensile and impact properties of thus treated alloy. The multiple reactions between the NaBF4 + NaF and Al-Si-Mg-Fe system are suggested to form Fe2B, AlB2, and Na in the melt, as per thermodynamic analysis. The three are responsible for Fe removal, grain refinement, and eutectic modification, respectively. When NaBF4 and NaF are mixed in weight ratio of 1:1, an optimum addition rate is in the range between 1.0 and 2.0 wt pct for treating AlSi7Mg0.3Fe0.65 alloy, based on the results of tensile and impact tests. Excessive addition of the salt may deteriorate the mechanical properties of the alloy, basically owing to overmodification of Si and contamination of salt inclusions.

The Role of Body Adiposity Index in Determining Body Fat Percentage in Colombian Adults with Overweight or Obesity.

PubMed

Ramírez-Vélez, Robinson; Correa-Bautista, Jorge Enrique; González-Ruíz, Katherine; Tordecilla-Sanders, Alejandra; García-Hermoso, Antonio; Schmidt-RioValle, Jacqueline; González-Jiménez, Emilio

2017-09-21

The aim of this study is to investigate the accuracy of body adiposity index (BAI) as a convenient tool for assessing body fat percentage (BF%) in a sample of adults with overweight/obesity using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). The study population was composed of 96 volunteers (60% female, mean age 40.6 ± 7.5 years old). Anthropometric characteristics (body mass index, height, waist-to-height ratio, hip and waist circumference), socioeconomic status, and diet were assessed, and BF% was measured by BIA-BF% and by BAI-BF%. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the correlation between BAI-BF% and BF% assessed by BIA-BF%, while controlling for potential confounders. The concordance between the BF% measured by both methods was obtained with a paired sample t -test, Lin's concordance correlation coefficient, and Bland-Altman plot analysis. Overall, the correlation between BF% obtained by BIA-BF% and estimated by BAI-BF% was r = 0.885, p < 0.001, after adjusting for potential confounders (age, socioeconomic status, and diet). Lin's concordance correlation coefficient was moderate in both sexes. In the men, the paired t-test showed a significant mean difference in BF% between the methods (-5.6 (95%CI -6.4 to -4.8); p < 0.001). In the women, these differences were (-3.6 (95%CI -4.7 to -2.5); p < 0.001). Overall, the bias of the BAI-BF% was -4.8 ± 3.2 BF%; p < 0.001), indicating that the BAI-BF% method significantly underestimated the BF% in comparison with the reference method. In adults with overweight/obesity, the BAI presents low agreement with BF% measured by BIA-BF%; therefore, we conclude that BIA-BF% is not accurate in either sex when body fat percentage levels are low or high. Further studies are necessary to confirm our findings in different ethnic groups.

The Role of Body Adiposity Index in Determining Body Fat Percentage in Colombian Adults with Overweight or Obesity

PubMed Central

González-Ruíz, Katherine; Schmidt-RioValle, Jacqueline

2017-01-01

The aim of this study is to investigate the accuracy of body adiposity index (BAI) as a convenient tool for assessing body fat percentage (BF%) in a sample of adults with overweight/obesity using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). The study population was composed of 96 volunteers (60% female, mean age 40.6 ± 7.5 years old). Anthropometric characteristics (body mass index, height, waist-to-height ratio, hip and waist circumference), socioeconomic status, and diet were assessed, and BF% was measured by BIA-BF% and by BAI-BF%. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the correlation between BAI-BF% and BF% assessed by BIA-BF%, while controlling for potential confounders. The concordance between the BF% measured by both methods was obtained with a paired sample t-test, Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient, and Bland-Altman plot analysis. Overall, the correlation between BF% obtained by BIA-BF% and estimated by BAI-BF% was r = 0.885, p < 0.001, after adjusting for potential confounders (age, socioeconomic status, and diet). Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient was moderate in both sexes. In the men, the paired t-test showed a significant mean difference in BF% between the methods (−5.6 (95% CI −6.4 to −4.8); p < 0.001). In the women, these differences were (−3.6 (95% CI −4.7 to −2.5); p < 0.001). Overall, the bias of the BAI-BF% was −4.8 ± 3.2 BF%; p < 0.001), indicating that the BAI-BF% method significantly underestimated the BF% in comparison with the reference method. In adults with overweight/obesity, the BAI presents low agreement with BF% measured by BIA-BF%; therefore, we conclude that BIA-BF% is not accurate in either sex when body fat percentage levels are low or high. Further studies are necessary to confirm our findings in different ethnic groups. PMID:28934175

[Effect of physical activity and t-786C polymorphism in blood pressure and blood flow in the elderly].

PubMed

Zago, Anderson Saranz; Kokubun, Eduardo; Fenty-Stewart, Nicola; Park, Joon-Young; Attipoe, Selasi; Hagberg, James; Brown, Michael

2010-10-01

the T-786C polymorphism of the gene for endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and superoxide anion production may reduce production and bioavailability of nitric oxide, affecting the degree of vasodilation. This effect can be reversed by exercise. to investigate the influence of aerobic training and T-786C polymorphism in the concentrations of nitric oxide metabolites (NOx) in blood flow (BF) and blood pressure (BP). thirty-two elderly pre-hypertensive women (59 ± 6 years old) were divided into two groups according to the T-786C polymorphism (TT and TC + CC). We analyzed the concentrations of NOx (plasma) and blood flow by venous occlusion plethysmography at rest, 1, 2 and 3 minutes post-occlusion (BF-0, BF-1 BF-2 BF-3, respectively). Evaluations were performed before and after 6 months of a program of aerobic exercise. In the pre-training evaluations, NOx levels were lower in TC + CC group than in TT group. The TT group showed correlations between NOx and BF-0 (r = 0.6) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and BF-0 (r = -0.7), but no correlation was found in TC + CC group. In the post-training evaluations, there were correlations between NOx and BF-0 (r = 0.6) and the changes in NOx and DBP (r = -0.6) in TT group. There were also correlations between DBP and BF-1 (r = -0.8), DBP, and BF-2 (r = -0.6), DBP, and BF-3 (r = -0.6), in the changes between NOx and BF-1 (r = 0.8) and changes in NOx and DBP (r = -0.7) in TC + CC group. it was concluded that 6 months of aerobic exercise can increase the relationship between NO, BP and BF in elderly of allele C carriers.

Dentin bonding performance and interface observation of an MMA-based restorative material.

PubMed

Shinagawa, Junichi; Inoue, Go; Nikaido, Toru; Ikeda, Masaomi; Sadr, Alireza; Tagami, Junji

2016-07-30

The purpose of this study was to evaluate bonding performance and dentin interface acid resistance using a 4-META/MMA-TBB based restorative material (BF) compared to a conventional 4-META/MMA-TBB resin cement (SB), and the effect of sodium fluoride (NaF) addition to the materials. Dentin surfaces were treated with 10% citric acid-3% ferric chloride (10-3) or 4-META containing self-etching primer (TP), followed by application of BF or SB polymer powders with or without NaF, to evaluate microtensile bond strength (µTBS) in six experimental groups; 10-3/SB, 10-3/BF, TP/SB, TP/BF, TP/SB/NaF and TP/BF/NaF. SEM observation of the resin-dentin interface was performed after acid-base challenge to evaluate interfacial dentin resistance to acid attack. TP/BF showed highest µTBS, while NaF polymers decreased µTBS. TP/BF showed funnel-shaped erosion at the interface, however, NaF polymers improved acid resistance of interface. In conclusion, BF demonstrated high µTBSs and low acid-resistance at the interface. NaF addition enhanced acid resistance but decreased µTBS.

Auditory cortical neurons are sensitive to static and continuously changing interaural phase cues.

PubMed

Reale, R A; Brugge, J F

1990-10-01

1. The interaural-phase-difference (IPD) sensitivity of single neurons in the primary auditory (AI) cortex of the anesthetized cat was studied at stimulus frequencies ranging from 120 to 2,500 Hz. Best frequencies of the 43 AI cells sensitive to IPD ranged from 190 to 2,400 Hz. 2. A static IPD was produced when a pair of low-frequency tone bursts, differing from one another only in starting phase, were presented dichotically. The resulting IPD-sensitivity curves, which plot the number of discharges evoked by the binaural signal as a function of IPD, were deeply modulated circular functions. IPD functions were analyzed for their mean vector length (r) and mean interaural phase (phi). Phase sensitivity was relatively independent of best frequency (BF) but highly dependent on stimulus frequency. Regardless of BF or stimulus frequency within the excitatory response area the majority of cells fired maximally when the ipsilateral tone lagged the contralateral signal and fired least when this interaural-phase relationship was reversed. 3. Sensitivity to continuously changing IPD was studied by delivering to the two ears 3-s tones that differed slightly in frequency, resulting in a binaural beat. Approximately 26% of the cells that showed a sensitivity to static changes in IPD also showed a sensitivity to dynamically changing IPD created by this binaural tonal combination. The discharges were highly periodic and tightly synchronized to a particular phase of the binaural beat cycle. High synchrony can be attributed to the fact that cortical neurons typically respond to an excitatory stimulus with but a single spike that is often precisely timed to stimulus onset. A period histogram, binned on the binaural beat frequency (fb), produced an equivalent IPD-sensitivity function for dynamically changing interaural phase. For neurons sensitive to both static and continuously changing interaural phase there was good correspondence between their static (phi s) and dynamic (phi d) mean interaural phases. 4. All cells responding to a dynamically changing stimulus exhibited a linear relationship between mean interaural phase and beat frequency. Most cells responded equally well to binaural beats regardless of the initial direction of phase change. For a fixed duration stimulus, and at relatively low fb, the number of spikes evoked increased with increasing fb, reflecting the increasing number of effective stimulus cycles. At higher fb, AI neurons were unable to follow the rate at which the most effective phase repeated itself during the 3 s of stimulation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

New loci for body fat percentage reveal link between adiposity and cardiometabolic disease risk.

PubMed

Lu, Yingchang; Day, Felix R; Gustafsson, Stefan; Buchkovich, Martin L; Na, Jianbo; Bataille, Veronique; Cousminer, Diana L; Dastani, Zari; Drong, Alexander W; Esko, Tõnu; Evans, David M; Falchi, Mario; Feitosa, Mary F; Ferreira, Teresa; Hedman, Åsa K; Haring, Robin; Hysi, Pirro G; Iles, Mark M; Justice, Anne E; Kanoni, Stavroula; Lagou, Vasiliki; Li, Rui; Li, Xin; Locke, Adam; Lu, Chen; Mägi, Reedik; Perry, John R B; Pers, Tune H; Qi, Qibin; Sanna, Marianna; Schmidt, Ellen M; Scott, William R; Shungin, Dmitry; Teumer, Alexander; Vinkhuyzen, Anna A E; Walker, Ryan W; Westra, Harm-Jan; Zhang, Mingfeng; Zhang, Weihua; Zhao, Jing Hua; Zhu, Zhihong; Afzal, Uzma; Ahluwalia, Tarunveer Singh; Bakker, Stephan J L; Bellis, Claire; Bonnefond, Amélie; Borodulin, Katja; Buchman, Aron S; Cederholm, Tommy; Choh, Audrey C; Choi, Hyung Jin; Curran, Joanne E; de Groot, Lisette C P G M; De Jager, Philip L; Dhonukshe-Rutten, Rosalie A M; Enneman, Anke W; Eury, Elodie; Evans, Daniel S; Forsen, Tom; Friedrich, Nele; Fumeron, Frédéric; Garcia, Melissa E; Gärtner, Simone; Han, Bok-Ghee; Havulinna, Aki S; Hayward, Caroline; Hernandez, Dena; Hillege, Hans; Ittermann, Till; Kent, Jack W; Kolcic, Ivana; Laatikainen, Tiina; Lahti, Jari; Mateo Leach, Irene; Lee, Christine G; Lee, Jong-Young; Liu, Tian; Liu, Youfang; Lobbens, Stéphane; Loh, Marie; Lyytikäinen, Leo-Pekka; Medina-Gomez, Carolina; Michaëlsson, Karl; Nalls, Mike A; Nielson, Carrie M; Oozageer, Laticia; Pascoe, Laura; Paternoster, Lavinia; Polašek, Ozren; Ripatti, Samuli; Sarzynski, Mark A; Shin, Chan Soo; Narančić, Nina Smolej; Spira, Dominik; Srikanth, Priya; Steinhagen-Thiessen, Elisabeth; Sung, Yun Ju; Swart, Karin M A; Taittonen, Leena; Tanaka, Toshiko; Tikkanen, Emmi; van der Velde, Nathalie; van Schoor, Natasja M; Verweij, Niek; Wright, Alan F; Yu, Lei; Zmuda, Joseph M; Eklund, Niina; Forrester, Terrence; Grarup, Niels; Jackson, Anne U; Kristiansson, Kati; Kuulasmaa, Teemu; Kuusisto, Johanna; Lichtner, Peter; Luan, Jian'an; Mahajan, Anubha; Männistö, Satu; Palmer, Cameron D; Ried, Janina S; Scott, Robert A; Stancáková, Alena; Wagner, Peter J; Demirkan, Ayse; Döring, Angela; Gudnason, Vilmundur; Kiel, Douglas P; Kühnel, Brigitte; Mangino, Massimo; Mcknight, Barbara; Menni, Cristina; O'Connell, Jeffrey R; Oostra, Ben A; Shuldiner, Alan R; Song, Kijoung; Vandenput, Liesbeth; van Duijn, Cornelia M; Vollenweider, Peter; White, Charles C; Boehnke, Michael; Boettcher, Yvonne; Cooper, Richard S; Forouhi, Nita G; Gieger, Christian; Grallert, Harald; Hingorani, Aroon; Jørgensen, Torben; Jousilahti, Pekka; Kivimaki, Mika; Kumari, Meena; Laakso, Markku; Langenberg, Claudia; Linneberg, Allan; Luke, Amy; Mckenzie, Colin A; Palotie, Aarno; Pedersen, Oluf; Peters, Annette; Strauch, Konstantin; Tayo, Bamidele O; Wareham, Nicholas J; Bennett, David A; Bertram, Lars; Blangero, John; Blüher, Matthias; Bouchard, Claude; Campbell, Harry; Cho, Nam H; Cummings, Steven R; Czerwinski, Stefan A; Demuth, Ilja; Eckardt, Rahel; Eriksson, Johan G; Ferrucci, Luigi; Franco, Oscar H; Froguel, Philippe; Gansevoort, Ron T; Hansen, Torben; Harris, Tamara B; Hastie, Nicholas; Heliövaara, Markku; Hofman, Albert; Jordan, Joanne M; Jula, Antti; Kähönen, Mika; Kajantie, Eero; Knekt, Paul B; Koskinen, Seppo; Kovacs, Peter; Lehtimäki, Terho; Lind, Lars; Liu, Yongmei; Orwoll, Eric S; Osmond, Clive; Perola, Markus; Pérusse, Louis; Raitakari, Olli T; Rankinen, Tuomo; Rao, D C; Rice, Treva K; Rivadeneira, Fernando; Rudan, Igor; Salomaa, Veikko; Sørensen, Thorkild I A; Stumvoll, Michael; Tönjes, Anke; Towne, Bradford; Tranah, Gregory J; Tremblay, Angelo; Uitterlinden, André G; van der Harst, Pim; Vartiainen, Erkki; Viikari, Jorma S; Vitart, Veronique; Vohl, Marie-Claude; Völzke, Henry; Walker, Mark; Wallaschofski, Henri; Wild, Sarah; Wilson, James F; Yengo, Loïc; Bishop, D Timothy; Borecki, Ingrid B; Chambers, John C; Cupples, L Adrienne; Dehghan, Abbas; Deloukas, Panos; Fatemifar, Ghazaleh; Fox, Caroline; Furey, Terrence S; Franke, Lude; Han, Jiali; Hunter, David J; Karjalainen, Juha; Karpe, Fredrik; Kaplan, Robert C; Kooner, Jaspal S; McCarthy, Mark I; Murabito, Joanne M; Morris, Andrew P; Bishop, Julia A N; North, Kari E; Ohlsson, Claes; Ong, Ken K; Prokopenko, Inga; Richards, J Brent; Schadt, Eric E; Spector, Tim D; Widén, Elisabeth; Willer, Cristen J; Yang, Jian; Ingelsson, Erik; Mohlke, Karen L; Hirschhorn, Joel N; Pospisilik, John Andrew; Zillikens, M Carola; Lindgren, Cecilia; Kilpeläinen, Tuomas Oskari; Loos, Ruth J F

2016-02-01

To increase our understanding of the genetic basis of adiposity and its links to cardiometabolic disease risk, we conducted a genome-wide association meta-analysis of body fat percentage (BF%) in up to 100,716 individuals. Twelve loci reached genome-wide significance (P<5 × 10(-8)), of which eight were previously associated with increased overall adiposity (BMI, BF%) and four (in or near COBLL1/GRB14, IGF2BP1, PLA2G6, CRTC1) were novel associations with BF%. Seven loci showed a larger effect on BF% than on BMI, suggestive of a primary association with adiposity, while five loci showed larger effects on BMI than on BF%, suggesting association with both fat and lean mass. In particular, the loci more strongly associated with BF% showed distinct cross-phenotype association signatures with a range of cardiometabolic traits revealing new insights in the link between adiposity and disease risk.

Phase polymorphism of novel [Ru(NH{sub 3}){sub 6}](ClO{sub 4}){sub 3}—Comparison with [Ru(NH{sub 3}){sub 6}](BF{sub 4}){sub 3}. Part II

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

Dołęga, Diana, E-mail: dolega@chemia.uj.edu.pl; Mikuli, Edward, E-mail: mikuli@chemia.uj.edu.pl; Górska, Natalia, E-mail: natalia.gorska@uj.edu.pl

2013-08-15

[Ru(NH{sub 3}){sub 6}](ClO{sub 4}){sub 3} undergoes two phase transitions at: T{sub C1}=290.3 K and T{sub C2}=74.8 K , thus exhibits three crystalline phases in the temperature range of 5–310 K. For the detected phase transitions, thermal effects were determined. Fourier transform far- and middle-infrared spectra (FT-FIR and FT-MIR), recorded at 8–350 K, suggest that reorientational motions of the NH{sub 3} ligands are very fast (τ{sub R}≈10{sup −12} s above T{sub C1}) and are significantly slowed down below T{sub C2}. X-ray single crystal diffraction (XRSCD) measurements revealed that in the high temperature phase (above T{sub C1}) the compound belongs to themore » cubic Fm3{sup ¯}m (No. 225) space group, whereas in the intermediate phase the unit cell parameter doubles and the space group is Ia3{sup ¯}(No. 206). {sup 1}H NMR studies revealed that the following reorientational motions are liberated during heating: three-fold reorientation of NH{sub 3} ligands, three-fold reorientation of the entire [Ru(NH{sub 3}){sub 6}]{sup 3+} cation, and isotropic reorientation of this cation. In the high temperature phase I the cations perform isotropic reorientations with the estimated activation energy equal to ca. 30.1 kJ mol{sup −1}. Comparison with adequate results obtained earlier for [Ru(NH{sub 3}){sub 6}](BF{sub 4}){sub 3} and for other similar compounds was made and general regularities were drawn. - Graphical abstract: Molar heat capacities obtained for [Ru(NH{sub 3}){sub 6}](ClO{sub 4}){sub 3} at temperatures between 5 and 310 K. Molecular structure of [Ru(NH{sub 3}){sub 6}]{sup 3+} and two types of ClO{sub 4}{sup -} varying in dynamic disorder at 293 K. Highlights: • Two solid phase transitions have been found in [Ru(NH{sub 3}){sub 6}](ClO{sub 4}){sub 3}. • The transitions are triggered by the hydrogen bond interactions between NH{sub 3} ligands and ClO{sub 4}{sup −} anions. • The complex is a highly dynamically disordered crystal across a wide temperature range.« less

Heat stress redistributes blood flow in arteries of the brain during dynamic exercise.

PubMed

Sato, Kohei; Oue, Anna; Yoneya, Marina; Sadamoto, Tomoko; Ogoh, Shigehiko

2016-04-01

We hypothesized that heat stress would decrease anterior and posterior cerebral blood flow (CBF) during exercise, and the reduction in anterior CBF would be partly associated with large increase in extracranial blood flow (BF). Nine subjects performed 40 min of semirecumbent cycling at 60% of the peak oxygen uptake in hot (35°C; Heat) and thermoneutral environments (25°C; Control). We evaluated BF and conductance (COND) in the external carotid artery (ECA), internal carotid artery (ICA), and vertebral artery (VA) using ultrasonography. During the Heat condition, ICA and VA BF were significantly increased 10 min after the start of exercise (P < 0.05) and thereafter gradually decreased. ICA COND was significantly decreased (P < 0.05), whereas VA COND remained unchanged throughout Heat. Compared with the Control, either BF or COND of ICA and VA at the end of Heat tended to be lower, but not significantly. In contrast, ECA BF and COND at the end of Heat were both higher than levels in the Control condition (P < 0.01). During Heat, a reduction in ICA BF appears to be associated with a decline in end-tidal CO2 tension (r = 0.84), whereas VA BF appears to be affected by a change in cardiac output (r = 0.87). In addition, a change in ECA BF during Heat was negatively correlated with a change in ICA BF (r = -0.75). Heat stress resulted in modification of the vascular response of head and brain arteries to exercise, which resulted in an alteration in the distribution of cardiac output. Moreover, a hyperthermia-induced increase in extracranial BF might compromise anterior CBF during exercise with heat stress. Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society.

Dynamic changes of rodent somatosensory barrel cortex are correlated with learning a novel conditioned stimulus.

PubMed

Long, John D; Carmena, Jose M

2013-05-01

The rodent somatosensory barrel cortex (S1bf) has proved a valuable model for studying neural plasticity in vivo. It has been observed that sensory deprivation or conditioning reorganizes sensory-driven activity within S1bf. These observations suggest a role for S1bf in somatosensory learning. This study evaluated the hypothesis that the response properties of extracellularly recorded neurons in S1bf would change as subjects learned to respond to stimulation of S1bf. Intracortical microstimulation (ICMS) of S1bf was used as a means for bypassing feedforward drive from the sensory periphery, midbrain, and thalamus while exciting local cortical networks. To separate the learning of this conditioned stimulus-conditioned response (CS-CR) from other elements of the task, we employed a cross-modal transfer schedule. Long-Evans rats were initially trained to respond to an auditory stimulus. All subjects were then implanted in both S1bfs with chronic microwire arrays for recording neural activity and delivering ICMS. Next, this association was transferred to ICMS of one hemisphere's S1bf. S1bf responded to ICMS with a brief increase in firing rate followed by a longer reduction in activity. We observed that the duration of reduced activity elicited by ICMS increased as the subjects began to respond correctly more often than expected by chance, and the magnitude of the initial positive response increased as they consolidated this CS-CR. Subsequent ICMS of the opposite S1bf revealed that this CS-CR did not generalize across hemispheres. These results suggest that a mechanism involving a single hemisphere's S1bf tunes cortical responses in concert with changes in rodent behavior during somatosensory learning.

Coherent Raman Spectra of the nu(1) Mode of 10BF3 and 11BF3

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

Kirkpatrick, Robynne; Masiello, Tony; Weber, Alfons

2006-05-01

High resolution (0.001cm-1) coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (CARS) was used to directly examine the v1 symmetric stretching mode of the planar symmetric D3h molecules 10BF3 and 11BF3. Simulations of the spectra were done using v1 rovibrational parameters deduced from published infrared hot-band and difference-band studies and the close similarity to the observed CARS spectra confirms the validity of the infrared constants. No significant perturbations by Fermi resonance or Coriolis interactions with nearby states are observed, in marked contrast to the case of sulfur trioxide, a similar D3h molecule recently studied. In the harmonic approximation, the 10BF3 and 11BF3 v1 Q-more » branches would be identical since the isotopic substitution is at the center of mass but, interestingly, the v1 stretching frequency for 11BF3 is found to be 0.198 cm-1 higher than for the lighter 10BF3 isotopomer. This counterintuitive result is reproduced almost exactly (0.200 cm -1) by ab initio calculations (B3LYP/cc-pVTZ) that included evaluation of cubic and quartic forced constants and xij anharmonicity constants. The ab initio computations also predict to within 1% the ?B, ?C changes in the rotational constants in going from the ground state to the v1=1 vibrational level. The results illustrate nicely the complementary interplay of modern infrared, Raman, and ab initio methods in obtaining and analyzing rovibrational spectra.« less

Inhibition of α-adrenergic tone disturbs the distribution of blood flow in the exercising human limb.

PubMed

Heinonen, Ilkka; Wendelin-Saarenhovi, Maria; Kaskinoro, Kimmo; Knuuti, Juhani; Scheinin, Mika; Kalliokoski, Kari K

2013-07-15

The role of neuronal regulation of human cardiovascular function remains incompletely elucidated, especially during exercise. Here we, by positron emission tomography, monitored tissue-specific blood flow (BF) changes in nine healthy young men during femoral arterial infusions of norepinephrine (NE) and phentolamine. At rest, the α-adrenoceptor agonist NE reduced BF by ~40%, similarly in muscles (from 3.2 ± 1.9 to 1.4 ± 0.3 ml·min(-1)·100 g(-1) in quadriceps femoris muscle), bone (from 1.1 ± 0.4 to 0.5 ± 0.2 ml·min(-1)·100 g(-1)) and adipose tissue (AT) (from 1.2 ± 0.7 to 0.7 ± 0.3 ml·min(-1)·100 g(-1)). During exercise, NE reduced exercising muscle BF by ~16%. BF in AT was reduced similarly as rest. The α-adrenoceptor antagonist phentolamine increased BF similarly in the different muscles and other tissues of the limb at rest. During exercise, BF in inactive muscle was increased 3.4-fold by phentolamine compared with exercise without drug, but BF in exercising muscles was not influenced. Bone and AT (P = 0.055) BF were also increased by phentolamine in the exercise condition. NE increased and phentolamine decreased oxygen extraction in the limb during exercise. We conclude that inhibition of α-adrenergic tone markedly disturbs the distribution of BF and oxygen extraction in the exercising human limb by increasing BF especially around inactive muscle fibers. Moreover, although marked functional sympatholysis also occurs during exercise, the arterial NE infusion that mimics the exaggerated sympathetic nerve activity commonly seen in patients with cardiovascular disease was still capable of directly limiting BF in the exercising leg muscles.

Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Computed Tomography-Derived Blood Volume and Blood Flow Correlate With Patient Outcome in Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma.

PubMed

Mains, Jill Rachel; Donskov, Frede; Pedersen, Erik Morre; Madsen, Hans Henrik Torp; Rasmussen, Finn

2017-02-01

The aim was to explore the potential for using dynamic contrast-enhanced computed tomography as a noninvasive functional imaging biomarker before and during the early treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). Dynamic contrast-enhanced computed tomography scans were performed at baseline and after 5 and 10 weeks' treatment in 69 prospectively included mRCC patients receiving treatment with interferon alpha and interleukin 2 (n = 26); interferon alpha, interleukin 2, and bevacizumab (n = 24); sunitinib (n = 7); pazopanib (n = 5); or temsirolimus (n = 7). Using a prototype software program (Advanced Perfusion and Permeability Application, Philips Healthcare, Best, the Netherlands), blood volume (BV), blood flow (BF), and permeability surface area product (PS) were calculated for each tumor at baseline, week 5, and week 10. These parameters as well as relative changes between baseline and weeks 5 and 10 were tested for associations with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) using Kaplan-Meier curves and log-rank tests. Using the 25th percentile as the cutoff, baseline BV for all patients independent of subsequent treatment was statistically significantly associated with PFS (10.8 vs 5.3 months, P = 0.007) and OS (35.2 vs 13.3 months, P = 0.001), and baseline BF was significantly associated with OS (31.7 vs 14.6 months, P = 0.024) with high values for both parameters being associated with significantly longer PFS and OS. Baseline PS was not associated with PFS or OS.In patients treated with angiogenesis inhibitors (bevacizumab, sunitinib, pazopanib, or temsirolimus), the relative change in BV from baseline to week 5 using 25th percentile as the cutoff was associated with PFS (5.6 vs 24.8 months, P = 0.001) and OS (19.1 months vs not reached, P = 0.008) and from baseline to week 10 with PFS (8.1 vs 16.4 months, P = 0.014) and OS (15.5 months vs not reached, P = 0.002). The relative change in BF from baseline to week 5 using medians as the cutoff was associated with PFS (5.5 vs 14.3 months, P = 0.018) and OS (14.6 vs 31.7 months, P = 0.027). The relative change in BF from baseline to week 10 using 25th percentile as the cutoff was associated with PFS (8.3 vs 46.9 months, P = 0.011) and OS (19.1 vs 53.0 months, P = 0.006). For both parameters, the largest reductions during early treatment were associated with increased PFS and OS.In patients receiving immunotherapy only (interferon alpha and interleukin 2), relative changes in PS between baseline and weeks 5 and 10 were significantly associated with PFS with larger increases associated with longer PFS. In patients receiving angiogenesis inhibitors, the relative changes in PS between baseline and week 10 were significantly associated with PFS and OS with larger reductions associated with favorable outcomes. In patients with mRCC treated with angiogenesis inhibitors, the largest reductions in BV and BF between baseline and weeks 5 and 10 were associated with favorable outcomes. At baseline, the lowest BV and BF were associated with the poorest outcomes regardless of the subsequent treatment. Early reductions in PS were associated with favorable outcomes for those treated with angiogenesis inhibitors and with poor outcomes for those treated with immunotherapies.

Relationship between body fat and BMI in a US Hispanic population-based cohort study: Results from HCHS/SOL

PubMed Central

Wong, William W.; Strizich, Garrett; Heo, Moonseong; Heymsfield, Steven B.; Himes, John H.; Rock, Cheryl L.; Gellman, Marc D.; Siega-Riz, Anna Maria; Sotres-Alvarez, Daniela; Davis, Sonia M.; Arredondo, Elva M.; Van Horn, Linda; Wylie-Rosett, Judith; Sanchez-Johnsen, Lisa; Kaplan, Robert; Mossavar-Rahmani, Yasmin

2016-01-01

Objective To evaluate the percentage of body fat (%BF)-BMI relationship, identify %BF levels corresponding to adult BMI cut-points, and examine %BF-BMI agreement in a diverse Hispanic/Latino population. Methods %BF by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) was corrected against %BF by 18O dilution in 476 participants of the ancillary Hispanic Community Health/Latinos Studies. Corrected %BF were regressed against 1/BMI in the parent study (n=15,261), fitting models for each age group, by sex and Hispanic/Latino background; predicted %BF was then computed for each BMI cut-point. Results BIA underestimated %BF by 8.7 ± 0.3% in women and 4.6 ± 0.3% in men (P < 0.0001). The %BF-BMI relationshp was non-linear and linear for 1/BMI. Sex- and age-specific regression parameters between %BF and 1/BMI were consistent across Hispanic/Latino backgrounds (P > 0.05). The precision of the %BF-1/BMI association weakened with increasing age in men but not women. The proportion of participants classified as non-obese by BMI but obese by %BF was generally higher among women and older adults (16.4% in women vs. 12.0% in men aged 50-74 y). Conclusions %BF was linearly related to 1/BMI with consistent relationship across Hispanic/Lation backgrounds. BMI cut-points consistently underestimated the proportion of Hispanics/Latinos with excess adiposity. PMID:27184359

Relationship between body fat and BMI in a US hispanic population-based cohort study: Results from HCHS/SOL.

PubMed

Wong, William W; Strizich, Garrett; Heo, Moonseong; Heymsfield, Steven B; Himes, John H; Rock, Cheryl L; Gellman, Marc D; Siega-Riz, Anna Maria; Sotres-Alvarez, Daniela; Davis, Sonia M; Arredondo, Elva M; Van Horn, Linda; Wylie-Rosett, Judith; Sanchez-Johnsen, Lisa; Kaplan, Robert C; Mossavar-Rahmani, Yasmin

2016-07-01

To evaluate the percentage of body fat (%BF)-BMI relationship, identify %BF levels corresponding to adult BMI cut points, and examine %BF-BMI agreement in a diverse Hispanic/Latino population. %BF by bioelectrical impedance analysis was corrected against %BF by (18) O dilution in 434 participants of the ancillary Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos. Corrected %BF was regressed against 1/BMI in the parent study (n = 15,261), fitting models for each age group, by sex, and Hispanic/Latino background; predicted %BF was then computed for each BMI cut point. Bioelectrical impedance analysis underestimated %BF by 8.7 ± 0.3% in women and 4.6 ± 0.3% in men (P < 0.0001). The %BF-BMI relationship was nonlinear and linear for 1/BMI. Sex- and age-specific regression parameters between %BF and 1/BMI were consistent across Hispanic/Latino backgrounds (P > 0.05). The precision of the %BF-1/BMI association weakened with increasing age in men but not women. The proportion of participants classified as nonobese by BMI but as having obesity by %BF was generally higher among women and older adults (16.4% in women vs. 12.0% in men aged 50-74 years). %BF was linearly related to 1/BMI with consistent relationship across Hispanic/Latino backgrounds. BMI cut points consistently underestimated the proportion of Hispanics/Latinos with excess adiposity. © 2016 The Obesity Society.

Predictive Validity of the Body Adiposity Index in Overweight and Obese Adults Using Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry

PubMed Central

Ramírez-Vélez, Robinson; Correa-Bautista, Jorge Enrique; González-Ruíz, Katherine; Vivas, Andrés; García-Hermoso, Antonio; Triana-Reina, Hector Reynaldo

2016-01-01

The body adiposity index (BAI) is a recent anthropometric measure proven to be valid in predicting body fat percentage (BF%) in some populations. However, the results have been inconsistent across populations. This study was designed to verify the validity of BAI in predicting BF% in a sample of overweight/obese adults, using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) as the reference method. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 48 participants (54% women, mean age 41.0 ± 7.3 years old). DEXA was used as the “gold standard” to determine BF%. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the association between BAI and BF%, as assessed by DEXA. A paired sample t-test was used to test differences in mean BF% obtained with BAI and DEXA methods. To evaluate the concordance between BF% as measured by DEXA and as estimated by BAI, we used Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient and Bland–Altman agreement analysis. The correlation between BF% obtained by DEXA and that estimated by BAI was r = 0.844, p < 0.001. Paired t-test showed a significant mean difference in BF% between methods (BAI = 33.3 ± 6.2 vs. DEXA 39.0 ± 6.1; p < 0.001). The bias of the BAI was −6.0 ± 3.0 BF% (95% CI = −12.0 to 1.0), indicating that the BAI method significantly underestimated the BF% compared to the reference method. Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient was considered stronger (ρc = 0.923, 95% CI = 0.862 to 0.957). In obese adults, BAI presented low agreement with BF% measured by DEXA; therefore, BAI is not recommended for BF% prediction in this overweight/obese sample studied. PMID:27916871

Dynamic modeling of Listeria monocytogenes growth in pasteurized vanilla cream after postprocessing contamination.

PubMed

Panagou, Efstathios Z; Nychas, George-John E

2008-09-01

A product-specific model was developed and validated under dynamic temperature conditions for predicting the growth of Listeria monocytogenes in pasteurized vanilla cream, a traditional milk-based product. Model performance was also compared with Growth Predictor and Sym'Previus predictive microbiology software packages. Commercially prepared vanilla cream samples were artificially inoculated with a five-strain cocktail of L. monocytogenes, with an initial concentration of 102 CFU g(-1), and stored at 3, 5, 10, and 15 degrees C for 36 days. The growth kinetic parameters at each temperature were determined by the primary model of Baranyi and Roberts. The maximum specific growth rate (mu(max)) was further modeled as a function of temperature by means of a square root-type model. The performance of the model in predicting the growth of the pathogen under dynamic temperature conditions was based on two different temperature scenarios with periodic changes from 4 to 15 degrees C. Growth prediction for dynamic temperature profiles was based on the square root model and the differential equations of the Baranyi and Roberts model, which were numerically integrated with respect to time. Model performance was based on the bias factor (B(f)), the accuracy factor (A(f)), the goodness-of-fit index (GoF), and the percent relative errors between observed and predicted growth. The product-specific model developed in the present study accurately predicted the growth of L. monocytogenes under dynamic temperature conditions. The average values for the performance indices were 1.038, 1.068, and 0.397 for B(f), A(f), and GoF, respectively for both temperature scenarios assayed. Predictions from Growth Predictor and Sym'Previus overestimated pathogen growth. The average values of B(f), A(f), and GoF were 1.173, 1.174, 1.162, and 0.956, 1.115, 0.713 for [corrected] Growth Predictor and Sym'Previus, respectively.

Agreement of BMI-Based Equations and DXA in Determining Body-Fat Percentage in Adults With Down Syndrome.

PubMed

Esco, Michael R; Nickerson, Brett S; Bicard, Sara C; Russell, Angela R; Bishop, Phillip A

2016-01-01

The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate measurements of body-fat percentage (BF%) in 4 body-mass-index- (BMI) -based equations and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in individuals with Down syndrome (DS). Ten male and 10 female adults with DS volunteered for this study. Four regression equations for estimating BF% based on BMI previously developed by Deurenberg et al. (DE(BMI-BF%)), Gallagher et al. (GA(BMI-BF%)), Womersley & Durnin (WO(BMI-BF%)), and Jackson et al. (JA(BMI-BF%)) were compared with DXA. There was no significant difference (p = .659) in mean BF% values between JA(BMI-BF%) (BF% = 40.80% ± 6.3%) and DXA (39.90% ± 11.1%), while DE(BMI-BF%) (34.40% ± 9.0%), WO(BMI-BF%) (35.10% ± 9.4%), and GA(BMI-BF%) (35.10% ± 9.4%) were significantly (p < .001) lower. The limits of agreement (1.96 SD of the constant error) varied from 9.80% to 16.20%. Therefore, BMI-based BF% equations should not be used in individuals with DS.

Reliability of air displacement plethysmography.

PubMed

Anderson, Dawn E

2007-02-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the reliability of an air displacement plethysmography device (BOD POD) over trials performed on 3 different days. Subjects consisted of 24 healthy adults (8 men, 16 women), ages 18-38 years, with body weights 46.8-93.6 kg, body mass indexes of 19.1-30.1 kg x m(-2), and percentage body fats (BF) of 7.9-43.1%. Two estimates of BF were performed on 3 days. Paired t-tests revealed no significant within-day differences in body volume (BV), thoracic gas volume (V(TG)), body density (BD), and BF. Correlations between the two V(TG) measures on a day were r = 0.86 for day 1, r = 0.93 for day 2, and r = 0.96 for day 3. BF estimates within a day had high correlations of r = 0.98. Significant differences were found between days for measures of BV, V(TG), BD, and BF. These results indicate a high reliability for within-day estimates of BF and significant differences in between-day estimates of BF using air displacement plethysmography. Reliability of BF may be increased by requiring subjects to practice the procedure for V(TG) measurement.

Near infrared reactance for the estimation of body fatness in regularly exercising individuals.

PubMed

Evans, J; Lambert, M I; Micklesfield, L K; Goedecke, J H; Jennings, C L; Savides, L; Claassen, A; Lambert, E V

2013-07-01

Near infrared reactance (NIR) is used to measure body fat percentage (BF%), but there is little data on its use in non-obese, regularly exercising individuals. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the limits of agreement between NIR compared to dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) for the measurement of BF% in 2 cohorts of regularly exercising individuals. BF% was measured using DXA and NIR in a regular exercising (≥3 sessions/week), healthy active cohort (HA; n=57), and in a regularly exercising and resistance trained (≥2 sessions/week) cohort (RT; n=59). The RT cohort had lower BF% than the HA cohort (15.3±5.5% and 25.8±7.1%, P<0.001). In the HA and RT cohorts, NIR BF% was associated with DXA BF% (R2=0.72, SEE=3.7, p<0.001 and R2=0.50, SEE=4.1 p<0.001, respectively). In the HA cohort, NIR tended to under-predict BF% (mean difference: - 1.3%; 95% limits of agreement (LOA); - 8.8 to 6.2%) whereas in the RT cohort, NIR tended to over-predict BF% compared to DXA (mean difference: 1.1; 95% LOA; - 8.1 to 10.3%). In conclusion, NIR and DXA yield similar average BF% measurements in 2 cohorts of non-obese regularly exercising individuals. However, the rather broad LOA of NIR need to be considered when using NIR to screen for overweight and obesity, or measure and track changes in body composition. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

MEASUREMENT OF BODY COMPOSITION CHANGES WITH WEIGHT LOSS IN POSTMENOPAUSAL WOMEN: COMPARISON OF METHODS

PubMed Central

MAHON, A.K.; FLYNN, M.G.; IGLAY, H.B.; STEWART, L.K.; JOHNSON, C.A.; MCFARLIN, B.K.; CAMPBELL, W.W.

2008-01-01

Background The accurate measurement of body composition changes is important when evaluating the efficacy of medical nutrition therapy and weight management programs, yet is not well documented in older women. Objective We compared methods of estimating energy-restriction-induced body composition changes in postmenopausal women. Design: 27 women (59 ± 8 y; BMI 29.0 ± 2.9 kg/m2; mean ± SD) completed a 9-wk energy restriction period (5233 kJ/d, (1250 kcal/d)). Changes in % body fat (Δ%BF), fat mass (ΔFM), and fat-free mass (ΔFFM) were measured by hydrostatic weighing (HW), air-displacement plethysmography (ADP), dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and deuterium oxide dilution (D2O). The Baumgartner et al. (Am J Clin Nutr 53:1345−1353, 1991) four-compartment (4C) model with body volume from HW was the criterion method. The 4C model with body volume from ADP was also compared. Regression equations were developed based on 4CHW (dependent variable) utilizing results of change (POST-PRE) for each method. Results The women lost 6.8 ± 3.2 kg; 9% of baseline weight. Based on 4CHW, the body composition changes were −2.4 ± 4.5 Δ%BF, −4.7 ± 3.3 kg ΔFM, and −2.6 ± 4.4 kg ΔFFM. No differences were detected by ANOVA for Δ%BF, ΔFM, and ΔFFM among 4CHW, HW, ADP, DXA, D2O, and 4CADP. Bland-Altman limits of agreement showed differences between methods that ranged from 14.5 to −14.1 Δ%BF, 7.8 to −8.1 kg ΔFM, and 7.5 to −8.4 kg ΔFFM for individuals. A bias was shown with 4CADP overestimating Δ%BF (1.4 %) and FM (0.6 kg) and underestimating ΔFFM (−1.2 kg) compared to 4CHW. The regression model was acceptable for %BF (4CADP, 2CHW, and 2CD2O); FM and FFM (4CADP, 3CDXA, 2CHW, and 2CD2O), but not for other estimates of %BF, FM, FFM. Conclusions These body composition assessment methods may be used interchangeably to quantify changes in % body fat, fat mass, and fat-free mass with weight loss in groups of postmenopausal women. 4CADP overestimates Δ%BF and underestimates ΔFFM. When utilizing one of these comparison methods (4CADP, 3CDXA, 2CHW, 2CD2O) to quantify changes in fat mass and fat-free mass for an individual postmenopausal woman, regression equations may be used to relate the data to 4CHW. PMID:17508096

Characterization and expression analysis of a complement component gene in sea cucumber ( Apostichopus japonicus)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Zhong; Zhou, Zunchun; Yang, Aifu; Dong, Ying; Guan, Xiaoyan; Jiang, Bei; Wang, Bai

2015-12-01

The complement system plays a crucial role in the innate immune system of animals. It can be activated by distinct yet overlapping classical, alternative and lectin pathways. In the alternative pathway, complement factor B (Bf) serves as the catalytic subunit of complement component 3 (C3) convertase, which plays the central role among three activation pathways. In this study, the Bf gene in sea cucumber ( Apostichopus japonicus), termed AjBf, was obtained by rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE). The full-length cDNA of AjBf was 3231 bp in length barring the poly (A) tail. It contained an open reading frame (ORF) of 2742 bp encoding 913 amino acids, a 105 bp 5'-UTR (5'-terminal untranslated region) and a 384 bp 3'-UTR. AjBf was a mosaic protein with six CCP (complement control protein) domains, a VWA (von Willebrand factor A) domain, and a serine protease domain. The deduced molecular weight of AjBf protein was 101 kDa. Quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis indicated that the expression level of AjBf in A. japonicus was obviously higher at larval stage than that at embryonic stage. Expression detection in different tissues showed that AjBf expressed higher in coelomocytes than in other four tissues. In addation, AjBf expression in different tissues was induced significantly after LPS or PolyI:C challenge. These results indicated that AjBf plays an important role in immune responses to pathogen infection.

Matrix isolation studies of the interactions of BF3 with water and substituted diethyl ethers. Chemical ionization mass spectrometric determination of the proton affinity of (CF3CH2)2O

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ball, David W.; Zehe, Michael J.

1993-01-01

BF3 was co-condensed with H2O, D2O, (C2H5)2O, (CF3CH2)2O, and (C2F5)2O in excess argon at 15 K. Infrared spectra of BF3/water isolated in solid argon provided a more complete analysis of the BF3--H2O complex than previously published. Infrared spectra of the matrices showed a definite Lewis acid-base interaction between BF3 and diethyl ether; a weak but definite interaction with bis (2,2,2-trifluorodiethyl) ether, and no observable interaction with perfluorodiethyl ether. Thus, the ether data indicate a clear trend between strength of interaction with BF3 and the degree of F substitution. To support and explain the emerging relationship between interaction strength and the basicity of the oxygen-containing molecule, the proton affinity of (CF3CH2)2O was measured using chemical ionization mass spectrometry. The implications of the results for lubricant/metal oxide surface interactions are discussed.

Body Mass, Total Body Fat Percentage, and Visceral Fat Level Predict Insulin Resistance Better Than Waist Circumference and Body Mass Index in Healthy Young Male Adults in Indonesia.

PubMed

Kurniawan, Liong Boy; Bahrun, Uleng; Hatta, Mochammad; Arif, Mansyur

2018-05-01

The incidence of obesity which leads to insulin resistance (IR) and metabolic disorder is increasing in developing countries, including Indonesia. Male adults have a higher risk of abdominal obesity than females. This is associated with cardiometabolic disorders. Several anthropometric measurements have been proposed to predict IR. The aim of this study was to investigate whether body mass, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), body fat percentage (BF) or visceral fat level (VF) could become a better predictor of IR in healthy young male adults. A total of 140 healthy young male adults ranging from 18⁻25 years were recruited in the study. Insulin resistance was measured by calculating their Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR). Subjects with a HOMA-IR value ≥75th percentile, with cut off 3.75, were defined as IR. Anthropometric measurements including body weight, BMI, and WC were performed, whereas BF and VC were measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). IR had a strong correlation with body weight, BMI, WC, BF, and VF. In the area under the curve of body mass, BF and VF were slightly greater than WC and BMI. Anthropometric measurements correlated strongly with IR but body weight, BF, VF had a stronger correlation than WC and BMI in healthy young male adults.

Independent Orbiter Assessment (IOA): Analysis of the body flap subsystem

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilson, R. E.; Riccio, J. R.

1986-01-01

The results of the Independent Orbiter Assessment (IOA) of the Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Critical Items List (CIL) are presented. The IOA approach features a top-down analysis of the hardware to determine failure modes, criticality, and potential critical items (PCIs). To preserve independence, this analysis was accomplished without reliance upon the results contained within the NASA FMEA/CIL documentation. The independent analysis results for the Orbiter Body Flap (BF) subsystem hardware are documented. The BF is a large aerosurface located at the trailing edge of the lower aft fuselage of the Orbiter. The proper function of the BF is essential during the dynamic flight phases of ascent and entry. During the ascent phase of flight, the BF trails in a fixed position. For entry, the BF provides elevon load relief, trim control, and acts as a heat shield for the main engines. Specifically, the BF hardware comprises the following components: Power Drive Unit (PDU), rotary actuators, and torque tubes. The IOA analysis process utilized available BF hardware drawings and schematics for defining hardware assemblies, components, and hardware items. Each level of hardware was evaluated and analyzed for possible failure modes and effects. Criticality was assigned based upon the severity of the effect for each failure mode. Of the 35 failure modes analyzed, 19 were determined to be PCIs.

Computational and experimental investigation of Li-doped ionic liquid electrolytes: [pyr14][TFSI], [pyr13][FSI], and [EMIM][BF4].

PubMed

Haskins, Justin B; Bennett, William R; Wu, James J; Hernández, Dionne M; Borodin, Oleg; Monk, Joshua D; Bauschlicher, Charles W; Lawson, John W

2014-09-25

We employ molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and experiment to investigate the structure, thermodynamics, and transport of N-methyl-N-butylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsufonyl)imide ([pyr14][TFSI]), N-methyl-N-propylpyrrolidinium bis(fluorosufonyl)imide ([pyr13][FSI]), and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium boron tetrafluoride ([EMIM][BF4]), as a function of Li-salt mole fraction (0.05 ≤ xLi(+) ≤ 0.33) and temperature (298 K ≤ T ≤ 393 K). Structurally, Li(+) is shown to be solvated by three anion neighbors in [pyr14][TFSI] and four anion neighbors in both [pyr13][FSI] and [EMIM][BF4], and at all levels of xLi(+) we find the presence of lithium aggregates. Pulsed field gradient spin-echo NMR measurements of diffusion and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements of ionic conductivity are made for the neat ionic liquids as well as 0.5 molal solutions of Li-salt in the ionic liquids. Bulk ionic liquid properties (density, diffusion, viscosity, and ionic conductivity) are obtained with MD simulations and show excellent agreement with experiment. While the diffusion exhibits a systematic decrease with increasing xLi(+), the contribution of Li(+) to ionic conductivity increases until reaching a saturation doping level of xLi(+) = 0.10. Comparatively, the Li(+) conductivity of [pyr14][TFSI] is an order of magnitude lower than that of the other liquids, which range between 0.1 and 0.3 mS/cm. Our transport results also demonstrate the necessity of long MD simulation runs (∼200 ns) to converge transport properties at room temperature. The differences in Li(+) transport are reflected in the residence times of Li(+) with the anions (τ(Li/-)), which are revealed to be much larger for [pyr14][TFSI] (up to 100 ns at the highest doping levels) than in either [EMIM][BF4] or [pyr13][FSI]. Finally, to comment on the relative kinetics of Li(+) transport in each liquid, we find that while the net motion of Li(+) with its solvation shell (vehicular) significantly contributes to net diffusion in all liquids, the importance of transport through anion exchange increases at high xLi(+) and in liquids with large anions.

A frontal cortex event-related potential driven by the basal forebrain

PubMed Central

Nguyen, David P; Lin, Shih-Chieh

2014-01-01

Event-related potentials (ERPs) are widely used in both healthy and neuropsychiatric conditions as physiological indices of cognitive functions. Contrary to the common belief that cognitive ERPs are generated by local activity within the cerebral cortex, here we show that an attention-related ERP in the frontal cortex is correlated with, and likely generated by, subcortical inputs from the basal forebrain (BF). In rats performing an auditory oddball task, both the amplitude and timing of the frontal ERP were coupled with BF neuronal activity in single trials. The local field potentials (LFPs) associated with the frontal ERP, concentrated in deep cortical layers corresponding to the zone of BF input, were similarly coupled with BF activity and consistently triggered by BF electrical stimulation within 5–10 msec. These results highlight the important and previously unrecognized role of long-range subcortical inputs from the BF in the generation of cognitive ERPs. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.02148.001 PMID:24714497

New loci for body fat percentage reveal link between adiposity and cardiometabolic disease risk

PubMed Central

Lu, Yingchang; Day, Felix R.; Gustafsson, Stefan; Buchkovich, Martin L.; Na, Jianbo; Bataille, Veronique; Cousminer, Diana L.; Dastani, Zari; Drong, Alexander W.; Esko, Tõnu; Evans, David M.; Falchi, Mario; Feitosa, Mary F.; Ferreira, Teresa; Hedman, Åsa K.; Haring, Robin; Hysi, Pirro G.; Iles, Mark M.; Justice, Anne E.; Kanoni, Stavroula; Lagou, Vasiliki; Li, Rui; Li, Xin; Locke, Adam; Lu, Chen; Mägi, Reedik; Perry, John R. B.; Pers, Tune H.; Qi, Qibin; Sanna, Marianna; Schmidt, Ellen M.; Scott, William R.; Shungin, Dmitry; Teumer, Alexander; Vinkhuyzen, Anna A. E.; Walker, Ryan W.; Westra, Harm-Jan; Zhang, Mingfeng; Zhang, Weihua; Zhao, Jing Hua; Zhu, Zhihong; Afzal, Uzma; Ahluwalia, Tarunveer Singh; Bakker, Stephan J. L.; Bellis, Claire; Bonnefond, Amélie; Borodulin, Katja; Buchman, Aron S.; Cederholm, Tommy; Choh, Audrey C.; Choi, Hyung Jin; Curran, Joanne E.; de Groot, Lisette C. P. G. M.; De Jager, Philip L.; Dhonukshe-Rutten, Rosalie A. M.; Enneman, Anke W.; Eury, Elodie; Evans, Daniel S.; Forsen, Tom; Friedrich, Nele; Fumeron, Frédéric; Garcia, Melissa E.; Gärtner, Simone; Han, Bok-Ghee; Havulinna, Aki S.; Hayward, Caroline; Hernandez, Dena; Hillege, Hans; Ittermann, Till; Kent, Jack W.; Kolcic, Ivana; Laatikainen, Tiina; Lahti, Jari; Leach, Irene Mateo; Lee, Christine G.; Lee, Jong-Young; Liu, Tian; Liu, Youfang; Lobbens, Stéphane; Loh, Marie; Lyytikäinen, Leo-Pekka; Medina-Gomez, Carolina; Michaëlsson, Karl; Nalls, Mike A.; Nielson, Carrie M.; Oozageer, Laticia; Pascoe, Laura; Paternoster, Lavinia; Polašek, Ozren; Ripatti, Samuli; Sarzynski, Mark A.; Shin, Chan Soo; Narančić, Nina Smolej; Spira, Dominik; Srikanth, Priya; Steinhagen-Thiessen, Elisabeth; Sung, Yun Ju; Swart, Karin M. A.; Taittonen, Leena; Tanaka, Toshiko; Tikkanen, Emmi; van der Velde, Nathalie; van Schoor, Natasja M.; Verweij, Niek; Wright, Alan F.; Yu, Lei; Zmuda, Joseph M.; Eklund, Niina; Forrester, Terrence; Grarup, Niels; Jackson, Anne U.; Kristiansson, Kati; Kuulasmaa, Teemu; Kuusisto, Johanna; Lichtner, Peter; Luan, Jian'an; Mahajan, Anubha; Männistö, Satu; Palmer, Cameron D.; Ried, Janina S.; Scott, Robert A.; Stancáková, Alena; Wagner, Peter J.; Demirkan, Ayse; Döring, Angela; Gudnason, Vilmundur; Kiel, Douglas P.; Kühnel, Brigitte; Mangino, Massimo; Mcknight, Barbara; Menni, Cristina; O'Connell, Jeffrey R.; Oostra, Ben A.; Shuldiner, Alan R.; Song, Kijoung; Vandenput, Liesbeth; van Duijn, Cornelia M.; Vollenweider, Peter; White, Charles C.; Boehnke, Michael; Boettcher, Yvonne; Cooper, Richard S.; Forouhi, Nita G.; Gieger, Christian; Grallert, Harald; Hingorani, Aroon; Jørgensen, Torben; Jousilahti, Pekka; Kivimaki, Mika; Kumari, Meena; Laakso, Markku; Langenberg, Claudia; Linneberg, Allan; Luke, Amy; Mckenzie, Colin A.; Palotie, Aarno; Pedersen, Oluf; Peters, Annette; Strauch, Konstantin; Tayo, Bamidele O.; Wareham, Nicholas J.; Bennett, David A.; Bertram, Lars; Blangero, John; Blüher, Matthias; Bouchard, Claude; Campbell, Harry; Cho, Nam H.; Cummings, Steven R.; Czerwinski, Stefan A.; Demuth, Ilja; Eckardt, Rahel; Eriksson, Johan G.; Ferrucci, Luigi; Franco, Oscar H.; Froguel, Philippe; Gansevoort, Ron T.; Hansen, Torben; Harris, Tamara B.; Hastie, Nicholas; Heliövaara, Markku; Hofman, Albert; Jordan, Joanne M.; Jula, Antti; Kähönen, Mika; Kajantie, Eero; Knekt, Paul B.; Koskinen, Seppo; Kovacs, Peter; Lehtimäki, Terho; Lind, Lars; Liu, Yongmei; Orwoll, Eric S.; Osmond, Clive; Perola, Markus; Pérusse, Louis; Raitakari, Olli T.; Rankinen, Tuomo; Rao, D. C.; Rice, Treva K.; Rivadeneira, Fernando; Rudan, Igor; Salomaa, Veikko; Sørensen, Thorkild I. A.; Stumvoll, Michael; Tönjes, Anke; Towne, Bradford; Tranah, Gregory J.; Tremblay, Angelo; Uitterlinden, André G.; van der Harst, Pim; Vartiainen, Erkki; Viikari, Jorma S.; Vitart, Veronique; Vohl, Marie-Claude; Völzke, Henry; Walker, Mark; Wallaschofski, Henri; Wild, Sarah; Wilson, James F.; Yengo, Loïc; Bishop, D. Timothy; Borecki, Ingrid B.; Chambers, John C.; Cupples, L. Adrienne; Dehghan, Abbas; Deloukas, Panos; Fatemifar, Ghazaleh; Fox, Caroline; Furey, Terrence S.; Franke, Lude; Han, Jiali; Hunter, David J.; Karjalainen, Juha; Karpe, Fredrik; Kaplan, Robert C.; Kooner, Jaspal S.; McCarthy, Mark I.; Murabito, Joanne M.; Morris, Andrew P.; Bishop, Julia A. N.; North, Kari E.; Ohlsson, Claes; Ong, Ken K.; Prokopenko, Inga; Richards, J. Brent; Schadt, Eric E.; Spector, Tim D.; Widén, Elisabeth; Willer, Cristen J.; Yang, Jian; Ingelsson, Erik; Mohlke, Karen L.; Hirschhorn, Joel N.; Pospisilik, John Andrew; Zillikens, M. Carola; Lindgren, Cecilia; Kilpeläinen, Tuomas Oskari; Loos, Ruth J. F.

2016-01-01

To increase our understanding of the genetic basis of adiposity and its links to cardiometabolic disease risk, we conducted a genome-wide association meta-analysis of body fat percentage (BF%) in up to 100,716 individuals. Twelve loci reached genome-wide significance (P<5 × 10−8), of which eight were previously associated with increased overall adiposity (BMI, BF%) and four (in or near COBLL1/GRB14, IGF2BP1, PLA2G6, CRTC1) were novel associations with BF%. Seven loci showed a larger effect on BF% than on BMI, suggestive of a primary association with adiposity, while five loci showed larger effects on BMI than on BF%, suggesting association with both fat and lean mass. In particular, the loci more strongly associated with BF% showed distinct cross-phenotype association signatures with a range of cardiometabolic traits revealing new insights in the link between adiposity and disease risk. PMID:26833246

Successive disorder to disorder phase transitions in ionic liquid [HMIM][BF4] under high pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Xiang; Yuan, Chaosheng; Li, Haining; Zhu, Pinwen; Su, Lei; Yang, Kun; Wu, Jie; Yang, Guoqiang; Liu, Jing

2016-02-01

In situ high-pressure Raman spectroscopy and synchrotron X-ray diffraction have been employed to investigate the phase behavior of ionic liquid, 1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([HMIM][BF4]) under high pressure up to 20 GPa at room temperature. With increasing pressure, some characteristic bands of [HMIM][BF4] disappear, and some characteristic bands of [HMIM][BF4] display non-monotonic pressure-induced frequency shift and non-monotonic variation of full width at half-maximum. Two successive phase transitions at ˜1.7 GPa and 7.3 GPa have been corroborated by the results above. The glass transition pressure (Pg) of [HMIM][BF4] at ˜7.3 GPa has been obtained by ruby R1 line broadening measurements and analysis of synchrotron X-ray diffraction patterns, and its glass transition mechanism is also analyzed in detail. These facts are suggestive of two successive disorder to disorder phase transitions induced by compression, that is, [HMIM][BF4] serves as a superpressurized glass under the pressure above 7.3 GPa, which is similar to the glassy state at low temperature, and a compression-induced liquid to liquid phase transition in [HMIM][BF4] occurs at ˜1.7 GPa. Besides, the conformational equilibrium of the GAAA conformer and AAAA conformer was converted easily in liquid [HMIM][BF4], while it was difficult to be influenced in glassy state.

Evaluation of Ficus benjamina wood chip-based fungal biofiltration for the treatment of Tequila vinasses.

PubMed

Marco Antonio, Garzón-Zúñiga; Angélica Julieta, Alvillo-Rivera; Esperanza, Ramírez Camperos; Gerardo, Buelna; Gerardo, Díaz-Godínez; Edson Baltazar, Estrada-Arriaga

2018-03-01

This study was focused on the application of an aerobic biofiltration (BF) with Ficus benjamina wood chips as support medium, inoculated with two basidiomycete fungi, Phanerochaete chrysosporium (BF 1) and Trametes versicolor (BF 2), to treat Tequila vinasses from a Tequila industry. The biofiltration system was compared with a biofilter system without basidiomycete fungi (BF W), in order to determine the influence of fungi on the treatment of vinasses. Three different vinasses/water ratios (30/70, 40/60, and 50/50) were evaluated. The maximum removals of chemical oxygen demand (COD) obtained during each operation step were 72% (BF 1), 72% (BF 2), and 8% (BF W) for 30 vinasses/70 water; 72% (BF 1), 73% (BF 2), and 66% (BF W) for 40 vinasses/60 water; and 22% (BF 1), 20% (BF 2), and 18% (BF W) for 50 vinasses/50 water. The total organic carbon (TOC) removal was significantly increased using a volumetric organic load of 5.5 kg COD m -3 d -1 . During the operation of the biofilters, the enzymatic activity of laccase was present, even at the step of highest concentration of vinasses.

STEM Tomography Imaging of Hypertrophied Golgi Stacks in Mucilage-Secreting Cells.

PubMed

Kang, Byung-Ho

2016-01-01

Because of the weak penetrating power of electrons, the signal-to-noise ratio of a transmission electron micrograph (TEM) worsens as section thickness increases. This problem is alleviated by the use of the scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). Tomography analyses using STEM of thick sections from yeast and mammalian cells are of higher quality than are bright-field (BF) images. In this study, we compared regular BF tomograms and STEM tomograms from 500-nm thick sections from hypertrophied Golgi stacks of alfalfa root cap cells. Due to their thickness and intense heavy metal staining, BF tomograms of the thick sections suffer from poor contrast and high noise levels. We were able to mitigate these drawbacks by using STEM tomography. When we performed STEM tomography of densely stained chloroplasts of Arabidopsis cotyledon, we observed similar improvements relative to BF tomograms. A longer time is required to collect a STEM tilt series than similar BF TEM images, and dynamic autofocusing required for STEM imaging often fails at high tilt angles. Despite these limitations, STEM tomography is a powerful method for analyzing structures of large or dense organelles of plant cells.

Effects of Soybean Lipid Infusion on Unbound Free Fatty Acids and Unbound Bilirubin in Preterm Infants.

PubMed

Hegyi, Thomas; Kleinfeld, Alan; Huber, Andrew; Weinberger, Barry; Memon, Naureen; Shih, Weichung Joe; Carayannopoulos, Mary; Oh, William

2017-05-01

To assess the effects of a soybean lipid emulsion infusions on levels of unbound (free) bilirubin (Bf) and unbound free fatty acids (FFAu) as well as changes in Bf and total serum bilirubin (TSB) during phototherapy in infants born preterm. Ninety-seven infants born preterm (birth weight: 500-2000 g; gestational age: 23-34 weeks) were enrolled to investigate the effect of 0, 1, 2, and 3 g/kg/d of intralipid infusion on Bf and FFAu. Pre- and postphototherapy TSB, FFAu, and Bf also were analyzed in 91 infants to assess the effects of phototherapy. FFAu levels were measured with the fluorescent probe ADIFAB2 and Bf by the fluorescent Bf sensor BL22P1B11-Rh during intralipid infusion and at start and end of phototherapy. TSB and plasma albumin were measured by the diazo and bromcresol green techniques, respectively. Bilirubin-albumin dissociation constants were calculated based on Bf and plasma albumin. Bf and FFAu increased with increasing intralipid dosage across all gestational ages. TSB and Bf were correlated significantly when infants received 0 or 1 g/kg/d of intralipid but not at greater doses of intralipid (2 and 3 g/kg/d). Although phototherapy effectively reduced both TSB and Bf in the total phototherapy group (by 32% and 12%, respectively), it reduced TSB, but not Bf, in infants less than 28 weeks of gestation. Increasing intralipid doses result in increasing FFAu levels, which are associated with increased Bf independent of TSB. In infants born extremely preterm (<28 weeks of gestation), phototherapy effectively reduces TSB but not Bf. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Unbound free fatty acids from preterm infants treated with intralipid decouples unbound from total bilirubin potentially making phototherapy ineffective.

PubMed

Hegyi, Thomas; Kathiravan, Suganya; Stahl, Gary E; Huber, Andrew H; Kleinfeld, Alan

2013-01-01

Extremely low birth weight (ELBW; <1,000 g) infants have poor outcomes, often compromised by bilirubin neurotoxicity. We measured unbound bilirubin (Bf) and unbound free fatty acid (FFAu) levels in 5 ELBW infants in a trial examining the effects of pharmacologic ductal closure on infants treated with Intralipid infusion (3 g/kg/day). The levels for all infants (mean ± SD) were: total serum bilirubin (TSB) 4.6 ± 1.7 mg/dl, FFAu 376 ± 496 nM, and Bf 42 ± 30 nM. Of the 3 infants who died, 2 had TSB <5.9 mg/dl but FFAu >580 nM and Bf >75 nM. Multiple regression revealed a major effect on Bf levels due to FFAu, indicating that Intralipid elevated levels of FFAu and Bf. Indomethacin or ibuprofen reduced Bf levels, most likely by reducing FFAu levels through lipase inhibition. Because displacement of Bf by FFAu decouples Bf from TSB, phototherapy may not reduce the risk of bilirubin or FFAu toxicity in Intralipid-treated ELBW infants. Copyright © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Breast-feeding and feeding practices of infants in a developing country: a national survey in Lebanon.

PubMed

Batal, Malek; Boulghourjian, Choghik; Abdallah, Ahmad; Afifi, Rima

2006-05-01

Breast-feeding (BF) provides the ideal food for the healthy growth and development of infants. The prevalence of BF in Lebanon shows mixed results. The present study was the first large-scale, extensive survey on BF parameters in Lebanon that aimed to explore demographic, socio-economic and other fundamental issues associated with the initiation and duration of BF by Lebanese mothers. The survey was cross-sectional in design and administered over 10 months. Information on all variables was collected from mothers at health centres. Two-stage sampling was conducted to select participants. A total of 1,000 participants were randomly selected. A consent form was provided to each participant. Data were collected from 830 of these. Almost all mothers were Lebanese, married and had given birth in a hospital. About a third stated that breast milk was the first food introduced after birth. Although 55.9% started breast-feeding their newborns within a few hours after birth, and 18.3% within half an hour, 21.2% replied that they initiated BF a few days after birth. Only 4.6% of the mothers replied that they never breast-fed their infant. Timing of initiation of BF was associated with the type of delivery (vaginal/Caesarean section) and hospital-related factors (rooming-in, night feedings and frequency of mother-infant interaction). Of the mothers who breast-fed exclusively beyond 6 months, 86.7% had initiated BF a few hours following delivery, while only 13.3% had initiated BF a few days later. Compared with the exceptionally high proportion of BF initiation, exclusivity of BF was low, dropping to 52.4% at 1 month. Exclusivity of BF was also associated with place of residence (urban/rural) and negatively associated with educational level of the mother. Duration of BF was inversely associated with the use of pain killers during delivery and maternal education. Rural mothers and those who practised exclusive BF maintained BF for a longer duration. Initiation rates of BF are very high in Lebanon but rates of exclusive BF are low and duration of BF is short. Future research targeting the factors associated with BF, with particular emphasis on exclusivity, is needed. For the 95.4% of mothers who initiated BF, an ecological perspective on intervention aimed at women and their social support system is required to improve duration and exclusivity.

An X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy study of BF3 adsorption on positively and negatively poled LiNbO3 (0001)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herdiech, M. W.; Mönig, H.; Altman, E. I.

2014-08-01

Adsorption of the strong Lewis acid BF3 was investigated to probe the sensitivity of the Lewis basicity of surface oxygens on LiNbO3 (0001) to the ferroelectric polarization direction. Adsorption and desorption were characterized by using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to monitor the intensity and binding energy of the F 1s core level as a function of BF3 exposure and temperature. The results indicate that both BF3 uptake and desorption are very similar on the positively and negatively poled surfaces. In particular, BF3 only weakly adsorbs with the majority of the adsorbed BF3 desorbing below 200 K. Despite the similarities in the uptake and desorption behavior, the binding energy of the F 1s peak relative to the substrate Nb 3d5/2 peak was sensitive to the polarization direction, with the F 1s peak occurring at a binding energy up to 0.3 eV lower on positively poled than negatively poled LiNbO3 for equivalent BF3 exposures. Rather than reflecting a difference in bonding to the surface, however, this shift could be associated with oppositely oriented dipoles at the positively and negatively poled surfaces creating opposite band offsets between the adsorbate and the substrate. A similar effect was observed with lead zirconate titanate thin films where the Pb 4f XPS peak position changes as a function of temperature as a result of the pyroelectric effect which changes the magnitude of the surface and interface dipoles.

Insertion of rare gas atoms into BF3 and AlF3 molecules: An ab initio investigation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jayasekharan, T.; Ghanty, T. K.

2006-12-01

The structure, stability, charge redistribution, and harmonic vibrational frequencies of rare gas inserted group III-B fluorides with the general formula F -Rg-MF2 (where M =B and Al; Rg =Ar, Kr, and Xe) have been investigated using ab initio quantum chemical methods. The Rg atom is inserted in one of the M -F bond of MF3 molecules, and the geometries are optimized for ground as well as transition states using the MP2 method. It has been found that Rg inserted F -Rg-M portion is linear in both F -Rg-BF2 and F -Rg-AlF2 species. The binding energies corresponding to the lowest energy fragmentation products MF3+Rg (two-body dissociation) have been computed to be -670.4, -598.8, -530.7, -617.0, -562.1, and -494.0kJ /mol for F -Ar-BF2, F -Kr-BF2, F -Xe-BF2, F -Ar-AlF2, F -Kr-AlF2, and F -Xe-AlF2 species, respectively. The dissociation energies corresponding to MF2+Rg +F fragments (three-body dissociation) are found to be positive with respect to F -Rg-MF2 species, and the computed values are 56.3, 127.8, and 196.0kJ/mol for F -Ar-BF2, F -Kr-BF2, and F -Xe-BF2 species, respectively. The corresponding values for F -Ar-AlF2, F -Kr-AlF2, and F -Xe-AlF2 species are also found to be positive. The decomposition of F -Rg-MF2 species into the MF3+Rg (two-body dissociation) channel typically proceeds via a transition state involving F -Rg-M out-of-plane bending mode. The transition state barrier heights are 35.5, 62.7, 89.8, 22.0, 45.6, and 75.3kJ/mol for F -Ar-BF2, F -Kr-BF2, F -Xe-BF2, F -Ar-AlF2, F -Kr-AlF2, and F -Xe-AlF2 species, respectively. The calculated geometrical parameters and the energy values suggest that these species are metastable and may be prepared and characterized using low temperature matrix isolation techniques, and are possibly the next new candidates for gas phase or matrix experiments.

Reliability of muscle blood flow and oxygen consumption response from exercise using near-infrared spectroscopy.

PubMed

Lucero, Adam A; Addae, Gifty; Lawrence, Wayne; Neway, Beemnet; Credeur, Daniel P; Faulkner, James; Rowlands, David; Stoner, Lee

2018-01-01

What is the central question of this study? Continuous-wave near-infrared spectroscopy, coupled with venous and arterial occlusions, offers an economical, non-invasive alternative to measuring skeletal muscle blood flow and oxygen consumption, but its reliability during exercise has not been established. What is the main finding and its importance? Continuous-wave near-infrared spectroscopy devices can reliably assess local skeletal muscle blood flow and oxygen consumption from the vastus lateralis in healthy, physically active adults. The patterns of response exhibited during exercise of varying intensity agree with other published results using similar methodologies, meriting potential applications in clinical diagnosis and therapeutic assessment. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), coupled with rapid venous and arterial occlusions, can be used for the non-invasive estimation of resting local skeletal muscle blood flow (mBF) and oxygen consumption (mV̇O2), respectively. However, the day-to-day reliability of mBF and mV̇O2 responses to stressors such as incremental dynamic exercise has not been established. The aim of this study was to determine the reliability of NIRS-derived mBF and mV̇O2 responses from incremental dynamic exercise. Measurements of mBF and mV̇O2 were collected in the vastus lateralis of 12 healthy, physically active adults [seven men and five women; 25 (SD 6) years old] during three non-consecutive visits within 10 days. After 10 min rest, participants performed 3 min of rhythmic isotonic knee extension (one extension every 4 s) at 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), before four venous occlusions and then two arterial occlusions. The mBF and mV̇O2 increased proportionally with intensity [from 0.55 to 7.68 ml min -1  (100 ml) -1 and from 0.05 to 1.86 ml O 2  min -1  (100 g) -1 , respectively] up to 25% MVC, where they began to plateau at 30% MVC. Moreover, an mBF/mV̇O2 muscle oxygen consumption ratio of ∼5 was consistent for all exercise stages. The intraclass correlation coefficient for mBF indicated high to very high reliability for 10-30% MVC (0.82-0.9). There was very high reliability for mV̇O2 across all exercise stages (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.91-0.96). In conclusion, NIRS can reliably assess muscle blood flow and oxygen consumption responses to low- to moderate-intensity exercise, meriting potential applications in clinical diagnosis and therapeutic assessment. © 2017 The Authors. Experimental Physiology © 2017 The Physiological Society.

The association between body fat and rotator cuff tear: the influence on rotator cuff tear sizes.

PubMed

Gumina, Stefano; Candela, Vittorio; Passaretti, Daniele; Latino, Gianluca; Venditto, Teresa; Mariani, Laura; Santilli, Valter

2014-11-01

Rotator cuff tear (RCT) has a multifactorial etiology. We hypothesized that obesity may increase the risk of RCT and influence tear size. A case-control design study was used. We studied 381 consecutive patients (180 men, 201 women; mean age ± standard deviation, 65.5 ± 8.52 years; range, 43-78 years) who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Tear size was determined intraoperatively. The control group included 220 subjects (103 men, 117 women; mean age ± standard deviation, 65.16 ± 7.24 years; range, 42-77 years) with no RCT. Body weight, height, and bicipital, tricipital, subscapularis, and suprailiac skinfolds of all participants were measured to obtain body mass index (BMI) and the percentage of body fat (%BF). For the purposes of the study, the 601 participants were divided into 2 groups by BMI (group A, BMI ≥ 25; group B, BMI < 25). The odds ratios (ORs) were calculated to investigate whether adiposity affects the risk of RCT. Data were stratified according to gender and age. Multiple linear regression analyses were applied to explore the association between obesity and tear size. The highest ORs for both men (OR, 2.49; 95% confidence interval, 1.41-3.90; P = .0037) and women (OR, 2.31; 95% confidence interval, 1.38-3.62; P = .0071) were for individuals with a BMI ≥ 30; 69% (N = 303) of group A and 48% (N = 78) of group B had RCTs. Patients with RCT had a BMI higher than that of subjects with no RCT in both groups (P = .031, group A; P = .02, group B). BMI and %BF significantly increased from patients with a small tear (BMI, 27.85; %BF, 37.63) to those with a massive RCT (BMI, 29.93; %BF, 39.43). Significant differences were found (P = .004; P = .031). Our results provide evidence that obesity, measured through BMI and %BF, is a significant risk factor for the occurrence and severity of RCT. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Comparison of body adiposity index (BAI) and air displacement plethysmograph with estimations of % body fat in adults with Down's syndrome.

PubMed

Rossato, M; Dellagrana, R A; de Souza Bezerra, E; da Costa, R M; Dos Santos, J O L; Silva, D A S; Diefenthaeler, F

2017-11-01

The aim of this study was to verify the agreement between body fat percentage (%BF) values evaluated by air displacement plethysmograph (ADP) and body adiposity index (BAI) in adults with Down's syndrome (DS). Forty-five adults with DS volunteered to participate in this study (19 women; age 28.7±8.5 years and 26 men; age 29.1±8.8 years). The %BF was measured by ADP (%BF ADP ) and estimated by anthropometric measures [%BF=(hip circumference/height) 1.5 -18] (%BF BAI ). Agreement between methods was evaluated by paired t-test, Pearson's correlation coefficient and Bland-Altman analysis. Although high correlation coefficients were found between %BF ADP and %BF BAI for women (r=0.78, P<0.05) and men (r=0.87, P<0.05), significant differences were observed between methods for both sexes (38.9±8.9 vs 42.5±8.5% for women, and 25.8±11.3 vs 32.6±5.4% for men in %BF ADP and %BF BAI , respectively). Moreover, Bland-Altman analysis showed that the mean error estimate was +3.6 (95%CI, -7.59 to 14.79) in women and +6.74 (95%CI, -7.25 to 20.72) in men. The results indicate that BAI seems to be a limited method to evaluate %BF in women and in men with DS.

Measuring B to S Gamma, B to D Gamma and |V(Td)/V(Ts)| at BaBar

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

Bard, Deborah; /SLAC

2012-06-01

Using a sample of 471 million B{bar B} events collected with the BaBar detector, we study the sum of seven exclusive final states b {yields} X{sub s(d)}{gamma}, where X{sub s(d)} is a strange (non-strange) hadronic system with a mass of up to 2.0 Gev/c{sup 2}. After correcting for unobserved decay modes, we obtain a branching fraction for b {yields} d{gamma} of (9.2 {+-} 2.0(stat.) {+-} 2.3(syst.)) x 10{sup -6} in this mass range, and a branching fraction for b {yields} s{gamma} of (23.0 {+-} 0.8(stat.) {+-} 3.0(syst.)) x 10{sup -5} in the same mass range. We find BF(b {yields} d{gamma})/BF(bmore » {yields} s{gamma}) = 0.040 {+-} 0.009(stat.) {+-} 0.010(syst.), from which we determine |V{sub td}/V{sub ts}| = 0.199 {+-} 0.022(stat.) {+-} 0.024(syst.) {+-} 0.002(th.).« less

Effect of inulin and pectin on physicochemical characteristics and stability of meat batters

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The aim of this study was to investigate levels of inulin and pectin replacing pork back fat (BF) in meat batters (MB) of frankfurter sausage. Six treatments were evaluated: control (T1), control + 70% BF (T2), control + 85% BF + 15% inulin (T3), control + 70% BF + 30% inulin (T4), control + 85% B...

[Cu(I)(bpp)]BF4: the first extended coordination network prepared solvothermally in an ionic liquid solvent.

PubMed

Jin, Kun; Huang, Xiaoying; Pan, Long; Li, Jing; Appel, Aaron; Wherland, Scot; Pang, Long

2002-12-07

Use of an ionic liquid [bmim][BF4] (bmim = 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium) as solvent has resulted in the first extended coordination structure, the two-dimensional network [Cu(bpp)]BF4 [bpp = 1,3-bis(4-pyridyl)propane], produced via a solvothermal route.

Percent body fat and prediction of surgical site infection.

PubMed

Waisbren, Emily; Rosen, Heather; Bader, Angela M; Lipsitz, Stuart R; Rogers, Selwyn O; Eriksson, Elof

2010-04-01

Obesity is a risk factor for surgical site infection (SSI) after elective surgery. Body mass index (BMI) is commonly used to define obesity (BMI >or=30 kg/m(2)), but percent body fat (%BF) (obesity is >25%BF [men]; >31%BF [women]) might better predict SSI risk because BMI might not reflect body composition. This prospective study included 591 elective surgical patients 18 to 64 years of age from September 2008 through February 2009. Height and weight were measured for BMI. %BF was calculated by bioelectrical impedance analysis. Preoperative, operative, and 30-day postoperative data were captured through interviews and chart review. Our primary, predetermined outcomes measurement was SSI as defined by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Mean %BF and BMI were 34+/-10 and 29+/-8, respectively. Four-hundred and nine (69%) patients were obese by %BF; 225 (38%) were obese by BMI. SSI developed in 71 (12%) patients. With BMI defining obesity, SSI incidence was 12.3% in nonobese and 11.6% in obese patients (p = 0.8); Using %BF, SSI occurred in 5.0% of nonobese and 15.2% of obese patients (p < 0.001). In univariate analyses, significant predictors of SSI were %BF (p = 0.005), obesity by %BF (p < 0.001), smoking (p = 0.002), National Nosocomial Infections Surveillance score (p < 0.001), postoperative hyperglycemia (p = 0.03), and anemia (p = 0.02). In multivariable analysis, obese patients by %BF had a 5-fold higher risk for SSI than nonobese patients (odds ratio = 5.3; 95% CI, 1.2-23.1; p = 0.03). Linear regression was used to show that there is a positive, nonlinear relationship between %BF and BMI. Obesity, defined by %BF, is associated with a 5-fold increased SSI risk. This risk increases as %BF increases. %BF is a more sensitive and precise measurement of SSI risk than BMI. Additional studies are required to better understand this relationship. Copyright (c) 2010 American College of Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Toxicity of two imidazolium ionic liquids, [bmim][BF4] and [omim][BF4], to standard aquatic test organisms: Role of acetone in the induced toxicity.

PubMed

Tsarpali, Vasiliki; Dailianis, Stefanos

2015-07-01

The main goal of this study was to investigate the toxicity of the imidazolium-based ionic liquids (ILs), [bmim][BF4] (1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate) and [omim][BF4] (1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate), in battery of standard aquatic toxicity test organisms. Specifically, exposure of the algae Scenedesmus rubescens, crustaceans Thamnocephalus platyurus and Artemia franciscana, rotifers Brachionus calyciflorus and Brachionus plicatilis and bivalve Mytilus galloprovincialis to different concentrations of [bmim][BF4], [omim][BF4] and/or a binary mixture of [bmim][BF4]-[omim][BF4] (1:1) with or without acetone (carrier solvent), revealed that solvent can differentially mediate ILs' toxic profile. Acetone's ability to differentially affect ILs' cation's alkyl chain length, as well as the hydrolysis of [BF4(-)] anions was evident. Given that the toxic potency of the tested ILs seemed to be equal or even higher (in some cases) than those of conventional organic solvents, the present study revealed that the characterization of imidazolium-based ILs as "green solvents" should not be generalized, at least in case of their natural occurrence in mixtures with organic solvents, such as acetone. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

On vibrational circular dichroism chirality transfer in electron donor-acceptor complexes: a prediction for the quinine···BF3 system.

PubMed

Rode, Joanna E; Jamróz, Michał H; Dobrowolski, Jan Cz; Sadlej, Joanna

2012-08-02

Vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) chirality transfer occurs when an achiral molecule interacts with a chiral one and becomes VCD-active. Unlike for H-bonds, for organic electron donor-acceptor (EDA) complexes this phenomenon remains almost unknown. Here, the VCD chirality transfer from chiral quinine to achiral BF3 is studied at the B3LYP/aug-cc-pVDZ level. Accessibility of four quinine electron donor sites changes with conformation. Therefore, the quinine conformational landscape was explored and a considerable agreement between X-ray and the most stable conformer geometries was achieved. The BF3 complex through the aliphatic quinuclidine N atom is definitely dominating and is predicted to be easily recognizable in the VCD spectrum. Out of several VCD chirality transfer modes, the ν(s)(BF3) mode, the most intense in the entire VCD spectrum, satisfies the VCD mode robustness criterion and can be used for monitoring the chirality transfer phenomenon in quinine···BF3 system.

Differences in regional adiposity, bone mineral density, and physical exercise participation based on exercise self-efficacy among senior adults.

PubMed

Glenn, J M; Gray, M; Vincenzo, J L

2015-10-01

The impact of exercise self-efficacy levels (ESE) on exercise participation, levels of body fat (BF), and bone mineral density (BMD) are unclear in senior-aged adults. The purpose of this study was to investigate effects of ESE on exercise participation, regional distribution of BF, and BMD among seniors. Senior adults (N.=76; 36 males, 40 females) were separated into tertiles (T1, age=60.4±1.4; T2, age=61.3±1.4; T3, age=60.4±1.5) based on self-reported levels of ESE. BMD and regional BF were measured using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and exercise participation levels were measured using the Rapid Physical-Activity Questionnaire. MANOVA revealed a significant Wilks Lambda (p < 0.001) and univariate analysis was completed for exercise participation levels, android BF, gynoid BF, and spinal BMD. ANOVA revealed T3 was significantly lower for android BF (p=0.002) than T1 and T2 (30% and 26%, respectively) while gynoid BF was significantly lower (p=0.012) for T3 (24%) compared to T1. When evaluating exercise participation levels, T3 was significantly higher (p < 0.001) than T1 or T2. Spinal BMD was significantly higher (p=0.030) between T2 (10%) and T1. ESE is an important factor in senior adults ability to maintain longitudinal health.

Separation of the isotopes of boron by chemical exchange reactions

DOEpatents

McCandless, Frank P.; Herbst, Ronald S.

1995-01-01

The isotopes of boron, .sup.10 B and .sup.11 B, are separated by means of a gas-liquid chemical exchange reaction involving the isotopic equilibrium between gaseous BF.sub.3 and a liquid BF.sub.3 . donor molecular addition complex formed between BF.sub.3 gas and a donor chosen from the group consisting of: nitromethane, acetone, methyl isobutyl ketone, or diisobutyl ketone.

Potential for waist-to-height ratio to detect overfat adolescents from a Pacific Island, even those within the normal BMI range.

PubMed

Frayon, Stéphane; Cavaloc, Yolande; Wattelez, Guillaume; Cherrier, Sophie; Lerrant, Yannick; Ashwell, Margaret; Galy, Olivier

2017-12-15

Waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) is a simple anthropometric proxy for central body fat; it is easy to use from a health education perspective. A WHtR value >0.5 has been proposed as a first level indicator of health risk. The first aim of this study was to compare WHtR with values based on body mass index (BMI) in their prediction of the percentage of body fat (%BF) in a multi-ethnic population of adolescents from New-Caledonia (age 11-16year). Secondly, to see whether WHtR >0.5 could be used to detect overfat subjects whose BMI was in the normal range. Body fat percentage (%BF, based on skinfold measurements), BMI and WHtR were calculated for New Caledonian adolescents from different ethnic backgrounds. The relationship between %BF, BMI and WHtR was determined using quadratic models and from linear regression equations. The sensitivity and specificity of WHtR for detecting overfat adolescents (%BF >25% in boys and >30% in girls) were assessed and compared with those from the BMI-based classification. WHtR showed better correlation with %BF than BMI-based measurements. WHtR >0.5 was also more accurate than BMI in detecting overfat adolescents. Moreover, using this boundary value, 8% of adolescents in the normal BMI range were shown to be over-fat. WHtR is a good anthropometric proxy to detect overfat adolescents. Detecting overfat adolescents within the normal BMI range is particularly important for preventing non communicable diseases. We therefore recommend using WHtR for health education programs in the Pacific area and more generally. Copyright © 2017 Asia Oceania Association for the Study of Obesity. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Body fat does not affect venous bubble formation after air dives of moderate severity: theory and experiment.

PubMed

Schellart, Nico A M; van Rees Vellinga, Tjeerd P; van Hulst, Rob A

2013-03-01

For over a century, studies on body fat (BF) in decompression sickness and venous gas embolism of divers have been inconsistent. A major problem is that age, BF, and maximal oxygen consumption (Vo2max) show high multicollinearity. Using the Bühlmann model with eight parallel compartments, preceded by a blood compartment in series, nitrogen tensions and loads were calculated with a 40 min/3.1 bar (absolute) profile. Compared with Haldanian models, the new model showed a substantial delay in N2 uptake and (especially) release. One hour after surfacing, an increase of 14-28% in BF resulted in a whole body increase of the N2 load of 51%, but in only 15% in the blood compartment. This would result in an increase in the bubble grade of only 0.01 Kisman-Masurel (KM) units at the scale near KM = I-. This outcome was tested indirectly by a dry dive simulation (air breathing) with 53 male divers with a small range in age and Vo2max to suppress multicollinearity. BF was determined with the four-skinfold method. Precordial Doppler bubble grades determined at 40, 80, 120, and 160 min after surfacing were used to calculate the Kisman Integrated Severity Score and were also transformed to the logarithm of the number of bubbles/cm(2) (logB). The highest of the four scores yielded logB = -1.78, equivalent to KM = I-. All statistical outcomes of partial correlations with BF were nonsignificant. These results support the model outcomes. Although this and our previous study suggest that BF does not influence venous gas embolism (Schellart NAM, van Rees Vellinga TP, van Dijk FH, Sterk W. Aviat Space Environ Med 83: 951-957, 2012), more studies with different profiles under various conditions are needed to establish whether BF remains (together with age and Vo2max) a basic physical characteristic or will become less important for the medical examination and for risk assessment.

The Bichromatic Optical Force on the Atomic Life- time Scale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Corder, Christopher; Arnold, Brian; Metcalf, Harold

2013-05-01

Our experimental and theoretical studies of the bichromatic force (BF) have shown that its strength and velocity range are very much larger than those of the usual radiative force. Since the BF relies on stimulated effects, the role of spontaneous emission in laser cooling has come into question. We drive the 23 S -->33 P transition of He at λ = 389 nm with laser frequencies ωl =ωa +/- δ , where ωa is the atomic transition frequency and δ ~ 30 MHz. Thus the velocity range of the force is Δv ~ δ / 2 k = 6 m/s. Because of the large and nearly constant strength of the BF, F ~ ℏkδ / π , all atoms can reach the velocity limit in a time <= MΔv / F = π / 4ωr = 380 ns, where ωr is the atomic recoil frequency. In our experiment a beam of He atoms crosses perpendicular through the BF laser beams in 380 ns so the relatively long lifetime of the excited state (τ = 106 ns) allows one or at most two spontaneous emission events, despite Δv of many tens of recoils. We will present our initial measurements of the BF in this new domain. Supported by ONR and Dept. of Ed. GAANN.

Body Adiposity Index Performance in Estimating Body Fat Percentage in Colombian College Students: Findings from the FUPRECOL-Adults Study.

PubMed

Ramírez-Vélez, Robinson; Correa-Bautista, Jorge Enrique; González-Ruíz, Katherine; Vivas, Andrés; Triana-Reina, Héctor Reynaldo; Martínez-Torres, Javier; Prieto-Benavides, Daniel Humberto; Carrillo, Hugo Alejandro; Ramos-Sepúlveda, Jeison Alexander; Villa-González, Emilio; García-Hermoso, Antonio

2017-01-17

Recently, a body adiposity index (BAI = (hip circumference)/((height)(1.5)) -18 ) was developed and validated in adult populations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of BAI in estimating percentage body fat (BF%) in a sample of Colombian collegiate young adults. The participants were comprised of 903 volunteers (52% females, mean age = 21.4 years ± 3.3). We used the Lin's concordance correlation coefficient, linear regression, Bland-Altman's agreement analysis, concordance correlation coefficient ( ρc ) and the coefficient of determination ( R ²) between BAI, and BF%; by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)). The correlation between the two methods of estimating BF% was R ² = 0.384, p < 0.001. A paired-sample t -test showed a difference between the methods (BIA BF% = 16.2 ± 3.1, BAI BF% = 30.0 ± 5.4%; p < 0.001). For BIA, bias value was 6.0 ± 6.2 BF% (95% confidence interval (CI) = -6.0 to 18.2), indicating that the BAI method overestimated BF% relative to the reference method. Lin's concordance correlation coefficient was poor ( ρc = 0.014, 95% CI = -0.124 to 0.135; p = 0.414). In Colombian college students, there was poor agreement between BAI- and BIA-based estimates of BF%, and so BAI is not accurate in people with low or high body fat percentage levels.

Assessing Electrolyte Transport Properties with Molecular Dynamics

DOE PAGES

Jones, R. E.; Ward, D. K.; Gittleson, F. S.; ...

2017-04-15

Here in this work we use estimates of ionic transport properties obtained from molecular dynamics to rank lithium electrolytes of different compositions. We develop linear response methods to obtain the Onsager diffusivity matrix for all chemical species, its Fickian counterpart, and the mobilities of the ionic species. We apply these methods to the well-studied propylene carbonate/ethylene carbonate solvent with dissolved LiBF 4 and O 2. The results show that, over a range of lithium concentrations and carbonate mixtures, trends in the transport coefficients can be identified and optimal electrolytes can be selected for experimental focus; however, refinement of these estimationmore » techniques is necessary for a reliable ranking of a large set of electrolytes.« less

Separation of the isotopes of boron by chemical exchange reactions

DOEpatents

McCandless, F.P.; Herbst, R.S.

1995-05-30

The isotopes of boron, {sup 10}B and {sup 11}B, are separated by means of a gas-liquid chemical exchange reaction involving the isotopic equilibrium between gaseous BF{sub 3} and a liquid BF{sub 3} donor molecular addition complex formed between BF{sub 3} gas and a donor chosen from the group consisting of: nitromethane, acetone, methyl isobutyl ketone, or diisobutyl ketone. 1 Fig.

Physical activity within a CBT intervention improves coping with pain in traumatized refugees: results of a randomized controlled design.

PubMed

Liedl, Alexandra; Müller, Julia; Morina, Naser; Karl, Anke; Denke, Claudia; Knaevelsrud, Christine

2011-02-01

Many traumatized refugees experience both posttraumatic stress disorder and chronic pain. Based on Mutual Maintenance Theory and the Perpetual Avoidance Model, this study examined the additional effect of physical activity within a biofeedback-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT-BF) for traumatized refugees. In a controlled design, 36 patients were randomized into one of three conditions (CBT-BF, CBT-BF with physical activity [CBT-BF+active], and a waiting list control group [WL]). Thirty patients (n=10 in each group) completed the treatment and a follow-up assessment 3 months later. Participants' coping strategies, pain and mental health status, and physiological reactivity were assessed before and after the intervention and at 3-month follow-up. Treatment effects were analyzed using analyses of variance with baseline scores as covariates (ANCOVAs) and the Reliable Change Index. The CBT-BF and CBT-BF+active groups showed improvements in all outcome measures relative to the WL group. The effect sizes for the main outcome measures were higher in the CBT-BF+active group than in the CBT-BF group. Repeated measures analyses of covariance showed significant group effects for coping strategies--in particular, for the "cognitive restructuring" and "counter-activities" subscales as well as a marginally significant group effect for "perceived self-competence"--with the CBT-BF+active group showing more favorable outcomes than the CBT-BF group. Moreover, 60% of participants in the CBT-BF+active group showed clinically reliable intraindividual change in at least one subscale of the pain coping strategies questionnaire, compared with just 30% of participants in the CBT-BF group. Findings of improved coping strategies, larger effect sizes, and higher rates of clinical improvement in the CBT-BF+active group suggest that physical activity adds value to pain management interventions for traumatized refugees. Given the small sample size, however, these preliminary results need replication in a larger trial. Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

3-D Modelling the effect of river excavation on surface water and groundwater relation in a bank filtration system - comparing electrical conductivity and heat as tracer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Weishi; Oswald, Sascha; Munz, Matthias; Strasser, Daniel

2017-04-01

As a pretreatment for conventional drinking water supply, bank filtration (BF) is widely used in Europe, while in Germany it contributes 16% of potable water supply. There are usually two crucial issues for BF influencing its treatment effect, which are separately the spatial and temporal distribution of travelling times and distinguishing between the flow contribution of BF versus inflow from the ambient groundwater. Modelling is a strong tool for analyzing the behavior and development of the flow field, especially for quantification of the river recharge rate of BF and estimation of travel time distribution. Though 3-D modelling of the flow field as a comprehensive tool has been used in several studies, many simulations are limited to pure water flow. Since heads are only partially able to constrain the flow field, model non-uniqueness might lead to misinterpretation of the real flow field, especially in complex geological conditions. Some studies have shown that by including tracers, the model non-uniqueness could be reasonably constrained and the accuracy of flux estimation could be improved. Natural tracers thus are used in groundwater modelling, while differences in their properties or input may cause dissimilar behavior during the transport process. In this study, we have set up a numerical 3-D groundwater flow model of a bank filtration site with strong geological heterogeneity and used the data of several years monitoring activities as the data basis. We were particularly interested in the seasonal dynamics but also structural changes induced by a reconstruction of the surface water including excavation and rebuilding the bank construction. By combining separately electrical conductivity and heat as tracers in the model we were able to i) understand flow field mechanisms and its changes caused by the excavation ii) conclude from the deviations of the tracer concentrations and dynamics simulated compared to the measurements on deficiencies of the flow field; and thus by the tracer study flow field could be improved iii) compare the individual behavior of the tracers in this realistic setting of transport processes also relevant for judging water quality in the pumping wells now and in the future.

Elastography Study of Hamstring Behaviors during Passive Stretching

PubMed Central

Le Sant, Guillaume; Ates, Filiz; Brasseur, Jean-Louis; Nordez, Antoine

2015-01-01

Introduction The mechanical properties of hamstring muscles are usually inferred from global passive torque/angle relationships, in combination with adjoining tissues crossing the joint investigated. Shear modulus measurement provides an estimate of changes in muscle-tendon stiffness and passive tension. This study aimed to assess the passive individual behavior of each hamstring muscle in different stretching positions using shear wave elastography. Methods/Results The muscle shear modulus of each hamstring muscle was measured during a standardized slow passive knee extension (PKE, 80% of maximal range of motion) on eighteen healthy male volunteers. Firstly, we assessed the reliability of the measurements. Results were good for semitendinosus (ST, CV: 8.9%-13.4%), semimembranosus (SM, CV: 10.3%-11.2%) and biceps femoris long-head (BF-lh, CV: 8.6%-13.3%), but not for biceps femoris short-head (BF-sh, CV: 20.3%-44.9%). Secondly, we investigated each reliable muscle in three stretch positions: 70°, 90° and 110° of hip flexion. The results showed different values of shear modulus for the same amount of perceived stretch, with the highest measurements in the high-flexed hip situation. Moreover, individual muscles displayed different values, with values increasing or BF-lh, SM and ST, respectively. The inter-subject variability was 35.3% for ST, 27.4% for SM and 30.2% for BF-lh. Conclusion This study showed that the hip needs to be high-flexed to efficiently tension the hamstrings, and reports a higher muscle-tendon stress tolerance at 110° of hip angle. In addition muscles have different passive behaviors, and future works will clarify if it can be linked with rate of injury. PMID:26418862

WIC Participation and Breastfeeding at 3 Months Postpartum

PubMed Central

Gregory, Emily F.; Gross, Susan M.; Nguyen, Trang Q.; Butz, Arlene M.; Johnson, Sara B.

2016-01-01

Objectives Participation in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) has been associated with lower breastfeeding initiation and duration. This study examines breastfeeding-related factors among WIC participants and nonparticipants that might explain these previous findings. Methods Respondents to the 2007 Infant Feeding Practices Study II who were income-eligible for WIC were categorized as follows: no WIC participation (No-WIC); prenatal participation and infant entry while ≥60 % breastfeeding (WIC BF-high); prenatal participation and infant entry while<60 % breastfeeding (WIC BF-low). Percent breastfeeding was the number of breast milk feeds divided by the total number of liquid feeds. Using propensity scores, we matched WIC BF-high respondents to No-WIC respondents on demographic and breastfeeding factors. We used logistic regression to estimate the impact of WIC participation on breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum in the matched sample. Within-WIC differences were explored. Results Of 743 income-eligible respondents, 293 never enrolled in WIC, 230 were categorized as WIC BF-high, and 220 as WIC BF-low. Compared to matched No-WIC respondents, WIC BF-high respondents had increased odds of breastfeeding at 3 months, though this difference was not statistically significant (OR 1.92; 95 % CI 0.95–3.67; p value 0.07). WIC BF-high respondents were more similar on breastfeeding-related characteristics to No-WIC respondents than to WIC BF-low respondents. Conclusions for Practice Accounting for prenatal breastfeeding intentions and attitudes, we find no negative association between WIC participation and breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum. This is in contrast to prior studies, and highlights the importance of understanding within-WIC differences. PMID:26994607

Enantioselective disruption of the endocrine system by Cis-Bifenthrin in the male mice.

PubMed

Jin, Yuanxiang; Wang, Jiangcong; Pan, Xiuhong; Miao, Wenyu; Lin, Xiaojian; Wang, Linggang; Fu, Zhengwei

2015-07-01

Bifenthrin (BF), as a chiral pyrethroid, is widely used to control field and household pests in China. At present, the commercial BF is a mixed compound containing cis isomers (cis-BF) including two enantiomers of 1R-cis-BF and 1S-cis-BF. In the present study, the two individual cis-BF enantiomers were separated by a preparative supercritical fluid chromatography. Then, four week-old adolescent male ICR mice were orally administered 1R-cis-BF and 1S-cis-BF separately daily for 3 weeks at doses of 0, 7.5 and 15 mg/kg/day, respectively. Results showed that the transcription status of some genes involved in cholesterol synthesis and transport as well as testosterone (T) synthesis in the testes were influenced by cis-BF enantiomers. Especially, we observed that the transcription status of key genes on the pathway of T synthesis including cytochrome P450 cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc) and cytochrome P450 17α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (P45017α)) were selectively altered in the testis of mice when treated with 1S-cis-BF, suggesting that it is the possible reason to explain why the lower serum T concentration in 1S-cis-BF treated group. Taken together, it concluded that both of the cis-BF enantiomers have the endocrine disruption activities, while 1S-cis-BF was higher than 1R-cis-BF in mice when exposed during the puberty. The data was helpful to understand the toxicity of cis-BF in mammals under enantiomeric level. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A cytotoxic protein (BF-CT1) purified from Bungarus fasciatus venom acts through apoptosis, modulation of PI3K/AKT, MAPKinase pathway and cell cycle regulation.

PubMed

Bhattacharya, Shamik; Das, Tanaya; Biswas, Archita; Gomes, Aparna; Gomes, Antony; Dungdung, Sandhya Rekha

2013-11-01

BF-CT1, a 13 kDa protein isolated from Bungarus fasciatus snake venom through CM cellulose ion exchange chromatography at 0.02 M NaCl salt gradient showed cytotoxicity in in vitro and in vivo experimental models. In in vivo Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) induced BALB/c mice model, BF-CT1 treatment reduced EAC cell count significantly through apoptotic cell death pathway as evidenced by FACS analysis, increased caspase 3, 9 activity and altered pro, antiapoptotic protein expression. BF-CT1 treatment caused cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation and induced apoptosis through increased caspase 3, caspase 9 activity, PARP cleavage and down regulation of heat shock proteins in U937 leukemic cell line. Cytosolic cytochrome C production was increased after BF-CT1 treatment upon U937 cell line. BF-CT1 treated U937 cell showed cell cycle arrest at sub G1 phase through cyclin D and CDK down regulation with up regulation of p15 and p16. It also down regulated PI3K/AKT pathway and MAPkinase pathway and promoted apoptosis and regulated cell proliferation in U937 cells. BF-CT1 prevented angiogenesis in in vitro U937 cell line through decreased VEGF and TGF-β1 production. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A New Approach to Prepare Vegetable Oil-Based Polymers

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Polymers from vegetable oils, such as soybean oil, were prepared by cationic polymerization in supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) medium. Boron trifluoride diethyl etherate (BF3.OEt2) was selected as catalyst. The resulting polymers have molecular weight ranging from 21,842 to 118,300 g/mol. Nu...

Investigation of toxic effects of imidazolium ionic liquids, [bmim][BF4] and [omim][BF4], on marine mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis with or without the presence of conventional solvents, such as acetone.

PubMed

Tsarpali, Vasiliki; Belavgeni, Alexia; Dailianis, Stefanos

2015-07-01

This study investigated the cytotoxic, oxidative and genotoxic effects of two commonly used imidazolium ionic liquids (ILs), [bmim][BF4] (1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium) and [omim][BF4] (1-methyl-3-octylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate), on the marine mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis, as well as whether acetone could mediate their toxic profile. In this context, mussels were firstly exposed to different concentrations of [bmim][BF4] or [omim][BF4], with or without the presence of acetone (at a final concentration of 0.06% v/v), for a period of 96h, in order to determine the concentration that causes 50% mussel mortality (LC50 values) in each case. Thereafter, mussels were exposed to sub- and non-lethal concentrations of ILs for investigating their ability to cause lysosomal membrane impairment (with the use of neutral red retention assay/NRRT), superoxide anion and lipid peroxidation byproduct (malondialdehyde/MDA) formation, as well as DNA damage and formation of nuclear abnormalities in hemocytes. The results showed that [omim][BF4] was more toxic than [bmim][BF4] in all cases, while the presence of acetone resulted in a slight attenuation of its toxicity. The different toxic behavior of ILs was further revealed by the significantly lower levels of NRRT values observed in [omim][BF4]-treated mussels, compared to those occurring in [bmim][BF4] in all cases. Similarly, [bmim][BF4]-mediated oxidative and genotoxic effects were observed only in the highest concentration tested (10mgL(-1)), while [omim][BF4]-mediated effects were enhanced at lower concentrations (0.01-0.05mgL(-1)). Overall, the present study showed that [bmim][BF4] and [omim][BF4] could induce not only lethal but also nonlethal effects on mussel M. galloprovincialis. The extent of [bmim][BF4] and/or [omim][BF4]-mediated effects could be ascribed to the length of each IL alkyl chain, as well as to their lipophilicity. Moreover, the role of acetone on the obtained toxic effects of the specific ILs was reported for the first time, giving evidence for its interaction with the ILs and the modulation of their toxicity. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Adaptive Bloom Filter: A Space-Efficient Counting Algorithm for Unpredictable Network Traffic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsumoto, Yoshihide; Hazeyama, Hiroaki; Kadobayashi, Youki

The Bloom Filter (BF), a space-and-time-efficient hashcoding method, is used as one of the fundamental modules in several network processing algorithms and applications such as route lookups, cache hits, packet classification, per-flow state management or network monitoring. BF is a simple space-efficient randomized data structure used to represent a data set in order to support membership queries. However, BF generates false positives, and cannot count the number of distinct elements. A counting Bloom Filter (CBF) can count the number of distinct elements, but CBF needs more space than BF. We propose an alternative data structure of CBF, and we called this structure an Adaptive Bloom Filter (ABF). Although ABF uses the same-sized bit-vector used in BF, the number of hash functions employed by ABF is dynamically changed to record the number of appearances of a each key element. Considering the hash collisions, the multiplicity of a each key element on ABF can be estimated from the number of hash functions used to decode the membership of the each key element. Although ABF can realize the same functionality as CBF, ABF requires the same memory size as BF. We describe the construction of ABF and IABF (Improved ABF), and provide a mathematical analysis and simulation using Zipf's distribution. Finally, we show that ABF can be used for an unpredictable data set such as real network traffic.

Computational Assessment of Blood Flow Heterogeneity in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients' Cardiac Ventricles

PubMed Central

Kharche, Sanjay R.; So, Aaron; Salerno, Fabio; Lee, Ting-Yim; Ellis, Chris; Goldman, Daniel; McIntyre, Christopher W.

2018-01-01

Dialysis prolongs life but augments cardiovascular mortality. Imaging data suggests that dialysis increases myocardial blood flow (BF) heterogeneity, but its causes remain poorly understood. A biophysical model of human coronary vasculature was used to explain the imaging observations, and highlight causes of coronary BF heterogeneity. Post-dialysis CT images from patients under control, pharmacological stress (adenosine), therapy (cooled dialysate), and adenosine and cooled dialysate conditions were obtained. The data presented disparate phenotypes. To dissect vascular mechanisms, a 3D human vasculature model based on known experimental coronary morphometry and a space filling algorithm was implemented. Steady state simulations were performed to investigate the effects of altered aortic pressure and blood vessel diameters on myocardial BF heterogeneity. Imaging showed that stress and therapy potentially increased mean and total BF, while reducing heterogeneity. BF histograms of one patient showed multi-modality. Using the model, it was found that total coronary BF increased as coronary perfusion pressure was increased. BF heterogeneity was differentially affected by large or small vessel blocking. BF heterogeneity was found to be inversely related to small blood vessel diameters. Simulation of large artery stenosis indicates that BF became heterogeneous (increase relative dispersion) and gave multi-modal histograms. The total transmural BF as well as transmural BF heterogeneity reduced due to large artery stenosis, generating large patches of very low BF regions downstream. Blocking of arteries at various orders showed that blocking larger arteries results in multi-modal BF histograms and large patches of low BF, whereas smaller artery blocking results in augmented relative dispersion and fractal dimension. Transmural heterogeneity was also affected. Finally, the effects of augmented aortic pressure in the presence of blood vessel blocking shows differential effects on BF heterogeneity as well as transmural BF. Improved aortic blood pressure may improve total BF. Stress and therapy may be effective if they dilate small vessels. A potential cause for the observed complex BF distributions (multi-modal BF histograms) may indicate existing large vessel stenosis. The intuitive BF heterogeneity methods used can be readily used in clinical studies. Further development of the model and methods will permit personalized assessment of patient BF status. PMID:29867555

The relationship of newborn adiposity to fetal growth outcome based on birth weight or the modified neonatal growth assessment score

PubMed Central

Lee, W; Riggs, T; Koo, W; Deter, RL; Yeo, L; Romero, R

2013-01-01

Objectives (1) Develop reference ranges of neonatal adiposity using air displacement plethysmography. (2) Use new reference ranges for neonatal adiposity to compare two different methods of evaluating neonatal nutritional status. Methods Three hundred and twenty-four normal neonates (35–41 weeks post-menstrual age) had body fat (%BF) and total fat mass (FM, g) measured using air displacement plethysmography shortly after delivery. Results were stratified for 92 of these neonates with corresponding fetal biometry using two methods for classifying nutritional status: (1) population-based weight percentiles; and (2) a modified neonatal growth assessment score (m3NGAS51). Results At the 50th percentile, &BF varied from 7.7% (35 weeks) to 11.8% (41 weeks), while the corresponding 50th percentiles for total FM were 186–436g. Among the subset of 92 neonates, no significant differences in adiposity were found between small for gestational age (SGA), appropriate for gestational age (AGA), and large for gestational age (LGA) groups using population-based weight standards. Classification of the same neonates using m3NGAS51 showed significant differences in mean %BF between corresponding groups. Conclusions Population-based weight criteria for neonatal nutritional status can lead to misclassification on the basis of adiposity. A neonatal growth assessment score, that considers the growth potential of several anatomic parameters, appears to more effectively classify under-and over-nourished newborns. PMID:22494346

On chirality transfer in electron donor-acceptor complexes. A prediction for the sulfinimine···BF3 system.

PubMed

Rode, Joanna E; Dobrowolski, Jan Cz

2012-01-01

Stabilization energies of the electron donor-acceptor sulfinimine···BF(3) complexes calculated at either the B3LYP/aug-cc-pVTZ or the MP2/aug-cc-pVTZ level do not allow to judge, whether the N- or O-atom in sulfinimine is stronger electron-donor to BF(3) . The problem seems to be solvable because chirality transfer phenomenon between chiral sulfinimine and achiral BF(3) is expected to be vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) active. Moreover, the bands associated with the achiral BF(3) molecule are predicted to be the most intense in the entire spectrum. However, the VCD band robustness analyses show that most of the chirality transfer modes of BF(3) are unreliable. Conversely, variation of VCD intensity with change of intermolecular distance, angle, and selected dihedrals between the complex partners shows that to establish the robustness of chirality transfer mode. It is also necessary to determine the influence of the potential energy surface (PES) shape on the VCD intensity. At the moment, there is still no universal criterion for the chirality transfer mode robustness and the conclusions formulated based on one system cannot be directly transferred even to a quite similar one. However, it is certain that more attention should be focused on relation of PES shape and the VCD mode robustness problem. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The role of phosphatidylinositol-3-OH-kinase (PI3-kinase) and respiratory burst enzymes in the [omim][BF4]-mediated toxic mode of action in mussel hemocytes.

PubMed

Belavgeni, Alexia; Dailianis, Stefanos

2017-09-01

The present study investigates the role of phosphatidylinositol-3-OH-kinase (PI3-kinase) and respiratory burst enzymes, NADPH oxidase and NO synthase, in the 1-methyl-3-octylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([omim][BF 4 ])-mediated toxic mode of action in mussel hemocytes. Specifically, cell viability (using the neutral red uptake assay) was primarily tested in hemocytes treated with different concentrations of [omim][BF 4 ] (0.1-10 mg L -1 ) and thereafter [omim][BF 4 ]-mediated oxidative (in terms of superoxide anions/O 2 - and nitric oxide/NO generation, as well as the enhancement of lipid peroxidation by-products, in terms of malondialdehyde/MDA) and genotoxic (in terms of DNA damage) effects were determined in hemocytes treated with 1 mg L -1 [omim][BF 4 ]. Moreover, in order to investigate, even indirectly and non-entirely specific, the role of PI3-kinase, NADPH oxidase and NO synthase, the [omim][BF 4 ]-mediated effects were also investigated in hemocytes pre-incubated with wortmannin (50 nM), diphenyleneiodonium chloride (DPI 10 μM) and N G -nitro- l -arginine methyl ester (l-NAME 10 μM), respectively. The results showed that [omim][BF 4 ] ability to enhance O 2 - , NO, MDA and DNA damage, via its interaction with cellular membranes, was significantly attenuated in the presence of each inhibitor in almost all cases. The current findings revealed for the first time that certain signaling molecules, such as PI3-kinase, as well as respiratory burst enzymes activation, such as NADPH oxidase and NO synthase, could merely attribute to the [omim][BF 4 ]-mediated mode of action, thus enriching our knowledge for the molecular mechanisms of ILs toxicity. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Body Adiposity Index Performance in Estimating Body Fat Percentage in Colombian College Students: Findings from the FUPRECOL—Adults Study

PubMed Central

Ramírez-Vélez, Robinson; Correa-Bautista, Jorge Enrique; González-Ruíz, Katherine; Vivas, Andrés; Triana-Reina, Héctor Reynaldo; Martínez-Torres, Javier; Prieto-Benavides, Daniel Humberto; Carrillo, Hugo Alejandro; Ramos-Sepúlveda, Jeison Alexander; Villa-González, Emilio; García-Hermoso, Antonio

2017-01-01

Recently, a body adiposity index (BAI = (hip circumference)/((height)(1.5))−18) was developed and validated in adult populations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of BAI in estimating percentage body fat (BF%) in a sample of Colombian collegiate young adults. The participants were comprised of 903 volunteers (52% females, mean age = 21.4 years ± 3.3). We used the Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient, linear regression, Bland–Altman’s agreement analysis, concordance correlation coefficient (ρc) and the coefficient of determination (R2) between BAI, and BF%; by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)). The correlation between the two methods of estimating BF% was R2 = 0.384, p < 0.001. A paired-sample t-test showed a difference between the methods (BIA BF% = 16.2 ± 3.1, BAI BF% = 30.0 ± 5.4%; p < 0.001). For BIA, bias value was 6.0 ± 6.2 BF% (95% confidence interval (CI) = −6.0 to 18.2), indicating that the BAI method overestimated BF% relative to the reference method. Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient was poor (ρc = 0.014, 95% CI = −0.124 to 0.135; p = 0.414). In Colombian college students, there was poor agreement between BAI- and BIA-based estimates of BF%, and so BAI is not accurate in people with low or high body fat percentage levels. PMID:28106719

Functional cloning of the proto-oncogene brain factor-1 (BF-1) as a Smad-binding antagonist of transforming growth factor-beta signaling.

PubMed

Rodriguez, C; Huang, L J; Son, J K; McKee, A; Xiao, Z; Lodish, H F

2001-08-10

Using the plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI) promoter to drive the expression of a reporter gene (mouse CD2), we devised a system to clone negative regulators of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) signaling pathway. We infected a TGF-beta-responsive cell line (MvLu1) with a retroviral cDNA library, selecting by fluorescence-activated cell sorter single cells displaying low PAI promoter activity in response to TGF-beta. Using this strategy we cloned the proto-oncogene brain factor-1 (BF-1). BF-1 represses the PAI promoter in part by associating with both unphosphorylated Smad3 (in the cytoplasm) and phosphorylated Smad3 (in the nucleus), thus preventing its binding to DNA. BF-1 also associates with Smad1, -2, and -4; the Smad MH2 domain binds to BF-1, and the C-terminal segment of BF-1 is uniquely and solely required for binding to Smads. Further, BF-1 represses another TGF-beta-induced promoter (p15), it up-regulates a TGF-beta-repressed promoter (Cyclin A), and it reverses the growth arrest caused by TGF-beta. Our results suggest that BF-1 is a general inhibitor of TGF-beta signaling and as such may play a key role during brain development.

WE-FG-206-06: Dual-Input Tracer Kinetic Modeling and Its Analog Implementation for Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced (DCE-) MRI of Malignant Mesothelioma (MPM)

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

Lee, S; Rimner, A; Hayes, S

Purpose: To use dual-input tracer kinetic modeling of the lung for mapping spatial heterogeneity of various kinetic parameters in malignant MPM Methods: Six MPM patients received DCE-MRI as part of their radiation therapy simulation scan. 5 patients had the epitheloid subtype of MPM, while one was biphasic. A 3D fast-field echo sequence with TR/TE/Flip angle of 3.62ms/1.69ms/15° was used for DCE-MRI acquisition. The scan was collected for 5 minutes with a temporal resolution of 5-9 seconds depending on the spatial extent of the tumor. A principal component analysis-based groupwise deformable registration was used to co-register all the DCE-MRI series formore » motion compensation. All the images were analyzed using five different dual-input tracer kinetic models implemented in analog continuous-time formalism: the Tofts-Kety (TK), extended TK (ETK), two compartment exchange (2CX), adiabatic approximation to the tissue homogeneity (AATH), and distributed parameter (DP) models. The following parameters were computed for each model: total blood flow (BF), pulmonary flow fraction (γ), pulmonary blood flow (BF-pa), systemic blood flow (BF-a), blood volume (BV), mean transit time (MTT), permeability-surface area product (PS), fractional interstitial volume (vi), extraction fraction (E), volume transfer constant (Ktrans) and efflux rate constant (kep). Results: Although the majority of patients had epitheloid histologies, kinetic parameter values varied across different models. One patient showed a higher total BF value in all models among the epitheloid histologies, although the γ value was varying among these different models. In one tumor with a large area of necrosis, the TK and ETK models showed higher E, Ktrans, and kep values and lower interstitial volume as compared to AATH and DP and 2CX models. Kinetic parameters such as BF-pa, BF-a, PS, Ktrans values were higher in surviving group compared to non-surviving group across most models. Conclusion: Dual-input tracer kinetic modeling is feasible in determining micro-vascular characteristics of MPM. This project was supported from Cycle for Survival and MSK Imaging and radiation science (IMRAS) grants.« less

New body fat prediction equations for severely obese patients.

PubMed

Horie, Lilian Mika; Barbosa-Silva, Maria Cristina Gonzalez; Torrinhas, Raquel Susana; de Mello, Marco Túlio; Cecconello, Ivan; Waitzberg, Dan Linetzky

2008-06-01

Severe obesity imposes physical limitations to body composition assessment. Our aim was to compare body fat (BF) estimations of severely obese patients obtained by bioelectrical impedance (BIA) and air displacement plethysmography (ADP) for development of new equations for BF prediction. Severely obese subjects (83 female/36 male, mean age=41.6+/-11.6 years) had BF estimated by BIA and ADP. The agreement of the data was evaluated using Bland-Altman's graphic and concordance correlation coefficient (CCC). A multivariate regression analysis was performed to develop and validate new predictive equations. BF estimations from BIA (64.8+/-15 kg) and ADP (65.6+/-16.4 kg) did not differ (p>0.05, with good accuracy, precision, and CCC), but the Bland- Altman graphic showed a wide limit of agreement (-10.4; 8.8). The standard BIA equation overestimated BF in women (-1.3 kg) and underestimated BF in men (5.6 kg; p<0.05). Two BF new predictive equations were generated after BIA measurement, which predicted BF with higher accuracy, precision, CCC, and limits of agreement than the standard BIA equation. Standard BIA equations were inadequate for estimating BF in severely obese patients. Equations developed especially for this population provide more accurate BF assessment.

Preparation of an Environment-friendly Biochar Fertilizer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, Xuan; Wang, Mingfeng; Jiang, Enchen

2018-01-01

Combining biochar with urea can not only enhance the release efficiency of urea, but also improve the soil environment thus promoting the growth of plant. However, the low mechanical strength and overuse of binder have limited the improvement of the biochar fertilizer (BF). An novel BF was prepared by putting the mixture of biochar and urea into a molding tube with diameter of 6-12mm and heating at 155°C. Molten urea (155°C) was used as binder to combine with biochar in a way of heterogeneous permeation & integration. The maximum compressive strengh of BF samples with different diameter are in the range of 46.34-108.54N, much larger to that of pure urea (12.1N). The leaching experiments show that only 19.5%-33.5% of BF samples released at the first day, exhibiting a slow-release property. Therefore, our study has demonstrated the potential of this novel BF for improving the effectiveness of fertilizer.

Extraction of tryptophan with ionic liquids studied with molecular dynamics simulations.

PubMed

Seduraman, Abirami; Wu, Ping; Klähn, Marco

2012-01-12

Extraction of amino acids from aqueous solutions with ionic liquids (ILs) in biphasic systems is analyzed with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Extraction of tryptophan (TRP) with the imidazolium-based ILs [C(4)mim][PF(6)], [C(8)mim][PF(6)], and [C(8)mim][BF(4)] are considered as model cases. Solvation free energies of TRP are calculated with MD simulations and thermodynamic integration in combination with an empirical force field, whose parametrization is based on the liquid-phase charge distribution of the ILs. Calculated solvation free energies reproduce successfully all observed experimental trends according to the previously reported partition of TRP between water and IL phases. Water is present in ILs as a cosolvent, due to direct contact with the aqueous phase during extraction, and is found to play a major role in the extraction of TRP. Water improves solvation of cationic TRP by 7.8 and 5.1 kcal/mol in [C(4)mim][PF(6)] and [C(8)mim][PF(6)], respectively, which is in the case of [C(4)mim][PF(6)] sufficient to extract TRP. Extraction in [C(8)mim][PF(6)] is not feasible, since the hydrophobic octyl groups of the cations limit the water concentration in the IL. The solvation of cationic TRP is 2.4 kcal/mol less favorable in [C(8)mim][PF(6)] than in [C(4)mim][PF(6)]. Water improves the solvation of TRP in ILs mostly through dipole-dipole interactions with the polar backbone of TRP. Extraction is most efficient with [C(8)mim][BF(4)], where hydrophilic BF(4)(-) anions substantially increase the water concentration in the IL. Additionally, stronger direct electrostatic interactions of TRP with BF(4)(-) anions improve its solvation in the IL further. The solvation of cationic TRP in [C(8)mim][BF(4)] is 3.4 kcal/mol more favorable than in [C(8)mim][PF(6)]. Overall, the extractive power of the ILs correlates with the water saturation concentration of the IL phase, which in turn is determined by the hydrophilicity of the constituting ions. The results of this work identify relations between the extraction performance of ILs and the basic chemical properties of the ions, which provide guidelines that could contribute to the design of improved novel ILs for amino acid extraction.

ENZYMATIC POLYMERIZATION OF PHENOLS IN ROOM TEMPERATURE IONIC LIQUIDS

PubMed Central

Eker, Bilge; Zagorevski, Dmitri; Zhu, Guangyu; Linhardt, Robert J.; Dordick, Jonathan S.

2009-01-01

Soybean peroxidase (SBP) was used to catalyze the polymerization of phenols in room-temperature ionic liquids (RTILs). Phenolic polymers with number average molecular weights ranging from 1200 to 4100 D were obtained depending on the composition of the reaction medium and the nature of the phenol. Specifically, SBP was highly active in methylimidazolium-containing RTILs, including 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (BMIM(BF4)), and 1-butyl-3-methylpyridinium tetrafluoroborate (BMPy(BF4)) with the ionic liquid content as high as 90% (v/v); the balance being aqueous buffer. Gel permeation chromatography and MALDI-TOF analysis indicated that higher molecular weight polymers can be synthesized in the presence of higher RTIL concentrations, with selective control over polymer size achieved by varying the RTIL concentration. The resulting polyphenols exhibited high thermostability and possessed thermosetting properties. PMID:20161409

Competition between ionic adsorption and desorption on electrochemical double layer capacitor electrodes in acetonitrile solutions at different currents and temperatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Sieun; Kang, Seok-Won; Kim, Ketack

2017-12-01

The operation of electrochemical double layer capacitors at high currents and viscosities and at low temperatures is difficult. Under these conditions, ion transport is limited, and some of the electrode area is unavailable for adsorption, which results in a low capacitance. Increasing the temperature helps to increase the ionic movement, leading to enhanced adsorption and increased capacitance. In contrast, ion desorption (self-discharge) surpasses the capacitance improvement when ions gain a high amount of energy with increasing temperature. For example, temperatures as high as 70 °C cause a very high rate of ionic desorption in acetonitrile solutions in which the individual properties of the two electrolytes-tetraethylammonium tetrafluoroborate (TEA BF4) and ethylmethylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (EMI BF4)-are not distinguishable. The capacitance improvement and self-discharge are balanced, resulting in a capacitance peak at mid-range temperatures, i.e., 35-45 °C, in the more viscous electrolyte, i.e., TEA BF4. The less viscous electrolyte, i.e., EMI BF4 has a wider capacitance peak from 25 to 45 °C and higher capacitance than that of TEA BF4. Because the maximum power is obtained in the mid-temperature range (35-45 °C), it is necessary to control the viscosity and temperature to obtain the maximum power in a given device.

Changes in lower extremity movement and power absorption during forefoot striking and barefoot running.

PubMed

Williams, D S Blaise; Green, Douglas H; Wurzinger, Brian

2012-10-01

Both forefoot strike shod (FFS) and barefoot (BF) running styles result in different mechanics when compared to rearfoot strike (RFS) shod running. Additionally, running mechanics of FFS and BF running are similar to one another. Comparing the mechanical changes occurring in each of these patterns is necessary to understand potential benefits and risks of these running styles. The authors hypothesized that FFS and BF conditions would result in increased sagittal plane joint angles at initial contact and that FFS and BF conditions would demonstrate a shift in sagittal plane joint power from the knee to the ankle when compared to the RFS condition. Finally, total lower extremity power absorption will be least in BF and greatest in the RFS shod condition. The study included 10 male and 10 female RFS runners who completed 3-dimensional running analysis in 3 conditions: shod with RFS, shod with FFS, and BF. Variables were the angles of plantarflexion, knee flexion, and hip flexion at initial contact and peak sagittal plane joint power at the hip, knee, and ankle during stance phase. Running with a FFS pattern and BF resulted in significantly greater plantarflexion and significantly less negative knee power (absorption) when compared to shod RFS condition. FFS condition runners landed in the most plantarflexion and demonstrated the most peak ankle power absorption and lowest knee power absorption between the 3 conditions. BF and FFS conditions demonstrated decreased total lower extremity power absorption compared to the shod RFS condition but did not differ from one another. BF and FFS running result in reduced total lower extremity power, hip power and knee power and a shift of power absorption from the knee to the ankle. Alterations associated with BF running patterns are present in a FFS pattern when wearing shoes. Additionally, both patterns result in increased demand at the foot and ankle as compared to the knee.

CHANGES IN LOWER EXTREMITY MOVEMENT AND POWER ABSORPTION DURING FOREFOOT STRIKING AND BAREFOOT RUNNING

PubMed Central

Green, Douglas H.; Wurzinger, Brian

2012-01-01

Purpose/Background: Both forefoot strike shod (FFS) and barefoot (BF) running styles result in different mechanics when compared to rearfoot strike (RFS) shod running. Additionally, running mechanics of FFS and BF running are similar to one another. Comparing the mechanical changes occurring in each of these patterns is necessary to understand potential benefits and risks of these running styles. The authors hypothesized that FFS and BF conditions would result in increased sagittal plane joint angles at initial contact and that FFS and BF conditions would demonstrate a shift in sagittal plane joint power from the knee to the ankle when compared to the RFS condition. Finally, total lower extremity power absorption will be least in BF and greatest in the RFS shod condition. Methods: The study included 10 male and 10 female RFS runners who completed 3‐dimensional running analysis in 3 conditions: shod with RFS, shod with FFS, and BF. Variables were the angles of plantarflexion, knee flexion, and hip flexion at initial contact and peak sagittal plane joint power at the hip, knee, and ankle during stance phase. Results: Running with a FFS pattern and BF resulted in significantly greater plantarflexion and significantly less negative knee power (absorption) when compared to shod RFS condition. FFS condition runners landed in the most plantarflexion and demonstrated the most peak ankle power absorption and lowest knee power absorption between the 3 conditions. BF and FFS conditions demonstrated decreased total lower extremity power absorption compared to the shod RFS condition but did not differ from one another. Conclusions: BF and FFS running result in reduced total lower extremity power, hip power and knee power and a shift of power absorption from the knee to the ankle. Clinical Relevance: Alterations associated with BF running patterns are present in a FFS pattern when wearing shoes. Additionally, both patterns result in increased demand at the foot and ankle as compared to the knee. PMID:23091785

Insulin sensitivity is reduced in children with high body-fat regardless of BMI.

PubMed

Fairchild, Timothy J; Klakk, Heidi; Heidemann, Malene; Grøntved, Anders; Wedderkopp, Niels

2018-02-23

To examine the association between insulin sensitivity and adiposity in children stratified according to their body mass index (BMI: normal weight, NW; overweight or obese, OW/OB) and body-fat percentage (BF%: adipose or NonAdipose), and determine whether cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) ameliorates any deleterious associations. This prospective cohort study comprises a cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses of data collected at baseline and 2 years later on children (7.7-13.4 years) attending public school in Denmark. Levels of CRF were measured using the Andersen test, whereas BF% was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Fasting plasma glucose and insulin concentrations were measured and the homoeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) used to assess insulin sensitivity. Approximately 8% of children classified as normal weight by BMI had high BF% (NW + Adipose). Children with high BF% had significantly higher insulin (NW + adipose: 32.3%; OW/OB + Adipose: 52.2%) and HOMA-IR scores (NW + Adipose: 32.3%; OW/OB + Adipose: 55.3%) than children classified as NW without high BF% (reference group; NW + NonAdipose). Adjusting for CRF reduced this difference, but did not completely ameliorate these associations. Longitudinally, children with high BF% (OW/OB + Adipose or NW + Adipose) had significantly worse insulin sensitivity 2 years later than NW + NonAdipose children (All p < 0.001). The few children (n = 14) who improved their BMI or BF% during the 2 years follow-up, no longer had significantly worse insulin sensitivity than children with NW + NonAdipose. High BF% in children is associated with significantly lower insulin sensitivity even when BMI is considered NW. Longitudinally, insulin sensitivity is lower in children with high BF% with or without high BMI. The CRF was a significant covariate in these models, but CRF did not completely ameliorate the effects of high BF% on insulin sensitivity.

Warfighter Information Network-Tactical Increment 3 (WIN-T Inc 3)

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-12-01

T vehicles employed at BCT, Fires, (Ch-1) WIN-T Inc 3 December 2013 SAR April 16, 2014 16:49:41 UNCLASSIFIED 13 AVN , BfSB, and select force...passengers and crew from small arms fire, mines, IED and other anti-vehicle/ personnel threats. AVN , BfSB, and select force pooled assets...small arms fire, mines, IED and other anti-vehicle/ personnel threats. AVN , BfSB, and select force pooled assets operating within the

Counter anion effect on structural, opto-electronic and charge transport properties of fused π-conjugated imidazolium compound

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vinodha, M.; Senthilkumar, K.

2018-05-01

The structure-activity relationship of fused π-conjugated imidazolium cation with three counter anion molecules, BF4-, CF3SO3- and (CF3SO2)2N-, was studied using electronic structure calculations. The structural, opto-electronic and charge transport properties of these complexes were studied. The charge transfer from π-conjugated imidazolium(I) to counter anion was confirmed in all the studied complexes. Interaction energy varies significantly depending on the counter anion and the stability was found higher for I-BF4 complex than both I-CF3SO3 and I-(CF3SO2)2N complexes. The strong (C-H)+...F- hydrogen bond of length 1.95 Å between fused π-conjugated imidazolium and BF-4 anion is the driving force for the strongest interaction energy in I-BF4 complex. The energy decomposition analysis confirms that the interaction between imidazolium and counter anion is mainly driven by electrostatic and orbital interaction. It has been observed that the absorption spectra of the complex are independent of anion nature but the influence of anion character is observed on frontier molecular orbital pattern. The charge transport property of I-BF4 complex was studied by using tight-binding Hamiltonian approach and found that the hole mobility in I-BF4 is 1.13 × 10-4 cm2 V-1 s-1.

Bone marrow CD11b(+)F4/80(+) dendritic cells ameliorate collagen-induced arthritis through modulating the balance between Treg and Th17.

PubMed

Zhang, Lingling; Fu, Jingjing; Sheng, Kangliang; Li, Ying; Song, Shanshan; Li, Peipei; Song, Shasha; Wang, Qingtong; Chen, Jingyu; Yu, Jianhua; Wei, Wei

2015-03-01

Tolerogenic dendritic cells (DCs) are well-known to show an immunosuppressive function. In this study we determine the therapeutic effects and potential mechanisms of transferred bone marrow (BM) CD11b(+)F4/80(+) DCs on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in mice. Murine BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+) DCs were generated under the stimulation of GM-CSF and IL-4, and the function of BM CD11b(+) F4/80(+) DCs was identified by measuring the levels of IL-10, TGF-beta and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO). BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+) DCs were transferred to CIA mice by intravenous injections. The histopathology of joint and spleen were evaluated. T lymphocyte proliferation, Treg and Th17 subsets were analyzed. The expressions of Foxp3, Helios and RORγt in T lymphocytes co-cultured with BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+) DCs were measured in vitro. We found that BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+) DCs induced by GM-CSF and IL-4 could express high levels of IL-10, TGF-beta and IDO. BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+) DCs significantly reduced the pathologic scores in joints and spleens, which correlated significantly with the reduced T lymphocyte proliferation and Th17 cell number, and with the increased Tregs number. In vitro, OVA-pulsed BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+) DCs promoted Treg cell expansion, enhanced IL-10 and CTLA-4 protein expression, augmented Foxp3 and Helios mRNA expression, and inhibited RORγt and IL-17 mRNA expression. Taken together, BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+) DCs are able to ameliorate the development and severity of CIA, at least partly by inducing Foxp3(+) Treg cell expansion and suppressing Th17 function. The BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+) DCs might have a promising immunotherapeutic potential for autoimmune arthritis. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Photocatalytic degradation of an azo textile dye (C.I. Reactive Red 195 (3BF)) in aqueous solution over copper cobaltite nanocomposite coated on glass by Doctor Blade method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Habibi, Mohammad Hossein; Rezvani, Zoya

2015-08-01

The degradation of C.I. Reactive Red 195 (3BF) in aqueous solution using copper cobaltite nanocomposite coated on glass by Doctor Blade method was studied. Structural, optical and morphological properties of nanocomposite coatings were characterized by X-ray powder diffractometry (XRD), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The nanoparticles exhibit a particle size of 31 nm, showing a good nanoscale crystalline morphology. The photocatalytic activity of copper cobaltite nanocomposite coated on glass was studied by performing the photocatalytic degradation of 3BF at different irradiation time. The effect of irradiation time on the degradation of 3BF was studied and the results showed that more than 85% of the 3BF was degraded in 45 min of irradiation. The pseudo-first-order kinetic models were used and the rate constants were evaluated with pseudo first order rate constants of 4.10 × 10-2 min-1. The main advantage of the photocatalyst coated on glass overcomes the difficulties in separation and recycle of photocatalyst suspensions.

Evidence for weak ferromagnetism, isostructural phase transition, and linear magnetoelectric coupling in the multiferroic Bi0.8Pb0.2Fe0.9Nb0.1O3 solid solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patel, Jay Prakash; Senyshyn, Anatoliy; Fuess, Hartmut; Pandey, Dhananjai

2013-09-01

Magnetization, dielectric, and calorimetric studies on Bi0.8 Pb0.2 Fe0.9 Nb0.1O3 (BF-0.2PFN) reveal very weak ferromagnetism but strong dielectric anomaly at the antiferromagnetic transition temperature (TN) characteristic of magnetoelectric coupling. We correlate these results with nuclear and magnetic structure studies using x-ray and neutron powder diffraction techniques, respectively. Rietveld refinements using x-ray powder diffraction data in the temperature range 300 to 673 K reveal pronounced anomalies in the unit cell parameters at TN, indicating strong magnetoelastic coupling. The nuclear and magnetic structures of BF-0.2PFN were determined from neutron powder diffraction data using a representation theory approach. They show the occurrence of a first-order isostructural phase transition (IPT) accompanying the magnetic ordering below TN˜566 K, leading to significant discontinuous change in the ionic polarization (ΔPz˜1.6(3) μC/cm2) and octahedral tilt angle (˜0.3°) at TN. The ionic polarization obtained from refined positional coordinates of the nuclear structure and Born effective charges is shown to scale linearly with sublattice magnetization, confirming the presence of linear magnetoelectric coupling in BF-0.2PFN at the atomic level, despite the very low value of remanent magnetization (Mr).

A comparison of thermoregulatory responses to exercise between mass-matched groups with large differences in body fat

PubMed Central

Dervis, Sheila; Coombs, Geoff B.; Chaseling, Georgia K.; Filingeri, Davide; Smoljanic, Jovana

2015-01-01

We sought to determine 1) the influence of adiposity on thermoregulatory responses independently of the confounding biophysical factors of body mass and metabolic heat production (Hprod); and 2) whether differences in adiposity should be accounted for by prescribing an exercise intensity eliciting a fixed Hprod per kilogram of lean body mass (LBM). Nine low (LO-BF) and nine high (HI-BF) body fat males matched in pairs for total body mass (TBM; LO-BF: 88.7 ± 8.4 kg, HI-BF: 90.1 ± 7.9 kg; P = 0.72), but with distinctly different percentage body fat (%BF; LO-BF: 10.8 ± 3.6%; HI-BF: 32.0 ± 5.6%; P < 0.001), cycled for 60 min at 28.1 ± 0.2°C, 26 ± 8% relative humidity (RH), at a target Hprod of 1) 550 W (FHP trial) and 2) 7.5 W/kg LBM (LBM trial). Changes in rectal temperature (ΔTre) and local sweat rate (LSR) were measured continuously while whole body sweat loss (WBSL) and net heat loss (Hloss) were estimated over 60 min. In the FHP trial, ΔTre (LO-BF: 0.66 ± 0.21°C, HI-BF: 0.87 ± 0.18°C; P = 0.02) was greater in HI-BF, whereas mean LSR (LO-BF 0.52 ± 0.19, HI-BF 0.43 ± 0.15 mg·cm−2·min−1; P = 0.19), WBSL (LO-BF 586 ± 82 ml, HI-BF 559 ± 75 ml; P = 0.47) and Hloss (LO-BF 1,867 ± 208 kJ, HI-BF 1,826 ± 224 kJ; P = 0.69) were all similar. In the LBM trial, ΔTre (LO-BF 0.82 ± 0.18°C, HI-BF 0.54 ± 0.19°C; P < 0.001), mean LSR (LO-BF 0.59 ± 0.20, HI-BF 0.38 ± 0.12 mg·cm−2·min−1; P = 0.04), WBSL (LO-BF 580 ± 106 ml, HI-BF 381 ± 68 ml; P < 0.001), and Hloss (LO-BF 1,884 ± 277 kJ, HI-BF 1,341 ± 184 kJ; P < 0.001) were all greater at end-exercise in LO-BF. In conclusion, high %BF individuals demonstrate a greater ΔTre independently of differences in mass and Hprod, possibly due to a lower mean specific heat capacity or impaired sudomotor control. However, thermoregulatory responses of groups with different adiposity levels should not be compared using a fixed Hprod in watts per kilogram lean body mass. PMID:26702025

A comparison of thermoregulatory responses to exercise between mass-matched groups with large differences in body fat.

PubMed

Dervis, Sheila; Coombs, Geoff B; Chaseling, Georgia K; Filingeri, Davide; Smoljanic, Jovana; Jay, Ollie

2016-03-15

We sought to determine 1) the influence of adiposity on thermoregulatory responses independently of the confounding biophysical factors of body mass and metabolic heat production (Hprod); and 2) whether differences in adiposity should be accounted for by prescribing an exercise intensity eliciting a fixed Hprod per kilogram of lean body mass (LBM). Nine low (LO-BF) and nine high (HI-BF) body fat males matched in pairs for total body mass (TBM; LO-BF: 88.7 ± 8.4 kg, HI-BF: 90.1 ± 7.9 kg; P = 0.72), but with distinctly different percentage body fat (%BF; LO-BF: 10.8 ± 3.6%; HI-BF: 32.0 ± 5.6%; P < 0.001), cycled for 60 min at 28.1 ± 0.2 °C, 26 ± 8% relative humidity (RH), at a target Hprod of 1) 550 W (FHP trial) and 2) 7.5 W/kg LBM (LBM trial). Changes in rectal temperature (ΔTre) and local sweat rate (LSR) were measured continuously while whole body sweat loss (WBSL) and net heat loss (Hloss) were estimated over 60 min. In the FHP trial, ΔTre (LO-BF: 0.66 ± 0.21 °C, HI-BF: 0.87 ± 0.18 °C; P = 0.02) was greater in HI-BF, whereas mean LSR (LO-BF 0.52 ± 0.19, HI-BF 0.43 ± 0.15 mg·cm(-2)·min(-1); P = 0.19), WBSL (LO-BF 586 ± 82 ml, HI-BF 559 ± 75 ml; P = 0.47) and Hloss (LO-BF 1,867 ± 208 kJ, HI-BF 1,826 ± 224 kJ; P = 0.69) were all similar. In the LBM trial, ΔTre (LO-BF 0.82 ± 0.18 °C, HI-BF 0.54 ± 0.19 °C; P < 0.001), mean LSR (LO-BF 0.59 ± 0.20, HI-BF 0.38 ± 0.12 mg·cm(-2)·min(-1); P = 0.04), WBSL (LO-BF 580 ± 106 ml, HI-BF 381 ± 68 ml; P < 0.001), and Hloss (LO-BF 1,884 ± 277 kJ, HI-BF 1,341 ± 184 kJ; P < 0.001) were all greater at end-exercise in LO-BF. In conclusion, high %BF individuals demonstrate a greater ΔTre independently of differences in mass and Hprod, possibly due to a lower mean specific heat capacity or impaired sudomotor control. However, thermoregulatory responses of groups with different adiposity levels should not be compared using a fixed Hprod in watts per kilogram lean body mass. Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society.

The Relationship Between Body Fat Percentage and Body Mass Index in Overweight and Obese Individuals in an Urban African Setting.

PubMed

Akindele, Mukadas O; Phillips, Julie S; Igumbor, Ehimario U

2016-08-17

The increase in the prevalence of overweight and obesity in both developed and developing countries is associated with musculoskeletal and other non-communicable diseases. To address this, an accurate measure of body adiposity, bearing in mind several shortcomings of body mass index (BMI), should be used. This study determined the relationship between BMI and body fat (BF)% among adult Nigerians of different ethnic groups residing in an urban setting. Using multistage cluster sampling technique were recruited 1571 subjects (>18 years; male=51.2%) in a cross-sectional study. Body adiposity indices were assessed using BMI and BF%. Using BF%, the result shows that a total number of 156 (9.9%) had low BF% while 291 (18.5%) had very high BF%, while the BMI classifications of body adiposity, 68 (4.3%) were underweight while 271 (17.3%) were obese. There was a strong and positive statistical relationship between BF% and BMI when both were paired without controlling for gender and age (r=0.81, P<0.01). The results show that there is a strong positive association between BMI and BF%, and age and sex are predictors of this association.

Prevalence, incidence and correlates of low risk HPV infection and anogenital warts in a cohort of women living with HIV in Burkina Faso and South Africa

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

Objective To report the prevalence and incidence of low-risk human papillomavirus infection (LR-HPV) and anogenital warts (AGW) among women living with HIV (WLHIV) in Burkina Faso (BF) and South Africa (SA), and to explore HIV-related factors associated with these outcomes. Methods We enrolled 1238 WLHIV (BF = 615; SA = 623) aged 25–50 years and followed them at three time points (6, 12 and 16 months) after enrolment. Presence of AGW was assessed during gynaecological examination. Cervico-vaginal swabs for enrolment and month 16 follow-up visits were tested for HPV infection by Inno-LiPA® genotyping. Logistic regression was used to assess risk factors for prevalent infection or AGW. Cox regression was used to assess risk factors for incident AGW. Results Women in SA were more likely than those in BF to have prevalent LR-HPV infection (BF: 27.1% vs. SA: 40.9%; p<0.001) and incident LR-HPV infection (BF: 25.8% vs. SA: 31.6%, p = 0.05). Prevalence of persistent LR-HPV was similar in the two countries (BF: 33.3% vs. SA: 30.4%; p = 0.54), as were prevalence and incidence of AGW (Prevalence: BF: 7.5% vs. SA: 5.7%; p = 0.21; Incidence: BF: 2.47 vs. SA: 2.33 per 100 person-years; p = 0.41). HPV6 was associated with incident AGW (BF: adjusted Hazard Ratio (aHR) = 4.88; 95%CI: 1.36–17.45; SA: aHR = 5.02; 95%CI: 1.40–17.99). Prevalent LR-HPV (BF: adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR = 1.86]; 95%CI: 1.01–3.41; SA: aOR = 1.75; 95%CI: 0.88–3.48); persistent LR-HPV (BF: aOR = 1.92; 95%CI: 0.44–8.44; SA: aOR = 2.81; 95%CI: 1.07–7.41) and prevalent AGW (BF: aOR = 1.53; 95%CI: 0.61–3.87; SA: aOR = 4.11; 95%CI: 1.20–14.10) were each associated with low CD4+ counts (i.e. <200 vs. >500 cells/μL). Duration of ART and HIV plasma viral load were not associated with any LR-HPV infection or AGW outcomes. Conclusion LR-HPV infection and AGW are common in WLHIV in sub-Saharan Africa. Type-specific HPV vaccines and effective ART with immunological reconstitution could reduce the burden of AGW in this population. PMID:29715305

Experimental and Calculational Studies of the Interactions of BF3 with Fluoroethers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zehe, Michael J.; Morales, Wilfredo; Ball, David W.

1998-01-01

BF3 was co-condensed with (C2H5)2O, (CF3CH2)2O and (C2F5)2O in excess argon at 15 K. Infrared spectra of the matrices showed a definite Lewis acid-base interaction between BF3 and diethyl ether; a weak but definite interaction with bis(2,2,2,-trifluorodiethyl)ether, and no observable interaction with perfluorodiethyl ether. Molecular orbital (MO) calculations complemented the experimental observations by revealing that fluorine atoms on the ethers decreased electron localization about the oxygen atom. Thus, the experimental data and MO calculations indicated a clear trend between strength of interaction with BF3 and the degree of ether F substitution. The implications of the results for commercial perfluoro ether lubricant/metal oxide surface interactions are discussed.

Gravity Wave Dynamics and Tidal Interactions in the MLT and at the Bottomside F Layer and Their Potential Contributions to Neutral and Plasma Dynamics

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-04-16

Figure 1. SpreadFEx-2 instrument locations enabled by thi AFOSR contract and related effort . CERTO tomography CERTO bf’acon • • FPI 20 F...layer vector w1nd~ .,..,---:[ - I I II " I I I ’ ’ I \\ I \\ ’, rr1 ’ ’ ’ I ’I ... • An example of the initial tomography using 2 and 3...corresponding non-migrating modes, suggesting that the migrating modes must contribute at least as significantly to thermospheric and ionospheric

Coronary versus carotid blood flow and coronary perfusion pressure in a pig model of prolonged cardiac arrest treated by different modes of venoarterial ECMO and intraaortic balloon counterpulsation.

PubMed

Bělohlávek, Jan; Mlček, Mikuláš; Huptych, Michal; Svoboda, Tomáš; Havránek, Stěpán; Ošt'ádal, Petr; Bouček, Tomáš; Kovárník, Tomáš; Mlejnský, František; Mrázek, Vratislav; Bělohlávek, Marek; Aschermann, Michael; Linhart, Aleš; Kittnar, Otomar

2012-12-12

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is increasingly used in cardiac arrest (CA). Adequacy of carotid and coronary blood flows (CaBF, CoBF) and coronary perfusion pressure (CoPP) in ECMO treated CA is not well established. This study compares femoro-femoral (FF) to femoro-subclavian (FS) ECMO and intraaortic balloon counterpulsation (IABP) contribution based on CaBF, CoBF, CoPP, myocardial and brain oxygenation in experimental CA managed by ECMO. In 11 female pigs (50.3 ± 3.4 kg), CA was randomly treated by FF versus FS ECMO ± IABP. Animals under general anesthesia had undergone 15 minutes of ventricular fibrillation (VF) with ECMO flow of 5 to 10 mL/kg/min simulating low-flow CA followed by continued VF with ECMO flow of 100 mL/kg/min. CaBF and CoBF were measured by a Doppler flow wire, cerebral and peripheral oxygenation by near infrared spectroscopy. CoPP, myocardial oxygen metabolism and resuscitability were determined. CaBF reached values > 80% of baseline in all regimens. CoBF > 80% was reached only by the FF ECMO, 90.0% (66.1, 98.6). Addition of IABP to FF ECMO decreased CoBF to 60.7% (55.1, 86.2) of baseline, P = 0.004. FS ECMO produced 70.0% (49.1, 113.2) of baseline CoBF, significantly lower than FF, P = 0.039. Addition of IABP to FS did not change the CoBF; however, it provided significantly higher flow, 76.7% (71.9, 111.2) of baseline, compared to FF + IABP, P = 0.026. Both brain and peripheral regional oxygen saturations decreased after induction of CA to 23% (15.0, 32.3) and 34% (23.5, 34.0), respectively, and normalized after ECMO institution. For brain saturations, all regimens reached values exceeding 80% of baseline, none of the comparisons between respective treatment approaches differed significantly. After a decline to 15 mmHg (9.5, 20.8) during CA, CoPP gradually rose with time to 68 mmHg (43.3, 84.0), P = 0 .003, with best recovery on FF ECMO. Resuscitability of the animals was high, both 5 and 60 minutes return of spontaneous circulation occured in eight animals (73%). In a pig model of CA, both FF and FS ECMO assure adequate brain perfusion and oxygenation. FF ECMO offers better CoBF than FS ECMO. Addition of IABP to FF ECMO worsens CoBF. FF ECMO, more than FS ECMO, increases CoPP over time.

Coronary versus carotid blood flow and coronary perfusion pressure in a pig model of prolonged cardiac arrest treated by different modes of venoarterial ECMO and intraaortic balloon counterpulsation

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Introduction Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is increasingly used in cardiac arrest (CA). Adequacy of carotid and coronary blood flows (CaBF, CoBF) and coronary perfusion pressure (CoPP) in ECMO treated CA is not well established. This study compares femoro-femoral (FF) to femoro-subclavian (FS) ECMO and intraaortic balloon counterpulsation (IABP) contribution based on CaBF, CoBF, CoPP, myocardial and brain oxygenation in experimental CA managed by ECMO. Methods In 11 female pigs (50.3 ± 3.4 kg), CA was randomly treated by FF versus FS ECMO ± IABP. Animals under general anesthesia had undergone 15 minutes of ventricular fibrillation (VF) with ECMO flow of 5 to 10 mL/kg/min simulating low-flow CA followed by continued VF with ECMO flow of 100 mL/kg/min. CaBF and CoBF were measured by a Doppler flow wire, cerebral and peripheral oxygenation by near infrared spectroscopy. CoPP, myocardial oxygen metabolism and resuscitability were determined. Results CaBF reached values > 80% of baseline in all regimens. CoBF > 80% was reached only by the FF ECMO, 90.0% (66.1, 98.6). Addition of IABP to FF ECMO decreased CoBF to 60.7% (55.1, 86.2) of baseline, P = 0.004. FS ECMO produced 70.0% (49.1, 113.2) of baseline CoBF, significantly lower than FF, P = 0.039. Addition of IABP to FS did not change the CoBF; however, it provided significantly higher flow, 76.7% (71.9, 111.2) of baseline, compared to FF + IABP, P = 0.026. Both brain and peripheral regional oxygen saturations decreased after induction of CA to 23% (15.0, 32.3) and 34% (23.5, 34.0), respectively, and normalized after ECMO institution. For brain saturations, all regimens reached values exceeding 80% of baseline, none of the comparisons between respective treatment approaches differed significantly. After a decline to 15 mmHg (9.5, 20.8) during CA, CoPP gradually rose with time to 68 mmHg (43.3, 84.0), P = 0 .003, with best recovery on FF ECMO. Resuscitability of the animals was high, both 5 and 60 minutes return of spontaneous circulation occured in eight animals (73%). Conclusions In a pig model of CA, both FF and FS ECMO assure adequate brain perfusion and oxygenation. FF ECMO offers better CoBF than FS ECMO. Addition of IABP to FF ECMO worsens CoBF. FF ECMO, more than FS ECMO, increases CoPP over time. PMID:22424292

New equations improve NIR prediction of body fat among high school wrestlers.

PubMed

Oppliger, R A; Clark, R R; Nielsen, D H

2000-09-01

Methodologic study to derive prediction equations for percent body fat (%BF). To develop valid regression equations using NIR to assess body composition among high school wrestlers. Clinicians need a portable, fast, and simple field method for assessing body composition among wrestlers. Near-infrared photospectrometry (NIR) meets these criteria, but its efficacy has been challenged. Subjects were 150 high school wrestlers from 2 Midwestern states with mean +/- SD age of 16.3 +/- 1.1 yrs, weight of 69.5 +/- 11.7 kg, and height of 174.4 +/- 7.0 cm. Relative body fatness (%BF) determined from hydrostatic weighing was the criterion measure, and NIR optical density (OD) measurements at multiple sites, plus height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) were the predictor variables. Four equations were developed with multiple R2s that varied from .530 to .693, root mean squared errors varied from 2.8% BF to 3.4% BF, and prediction errors varied from 2.9% BF to 3.1% BF. The best equation used OD measurements at the biceps, triceps, and thigh sites, BMI, and age. The root mean squared error and prediction error for all 4 equations were equal to or smaller than for a skinfold equation commonly used with wrestlers. The results substantiate the validity of NIR for predicting % BF among high school wrestlers. Cross-validation of these equations is warranted.

Anthropometric predictors of body fat as measured by hydrostatic weighing in Guatemalan adults.

PubMed

Ramirez-Zea, Manuel; Torun, Benjamin; Martorell, Reynaldo; Stein, Aryeh D

2006-04-01

Most predictive equations currently used to assess percentage body fat (%BF) were derived from persons in industrialized Western societies. We developed equations to predict %BF from anthropometric measurements in rural and urban Guatemalan adults. Body density was measured in 123 women and 114 men by using hydrostatic weighing and simultaneous measurement of residual lung volume. Anthropometric measures included weight (in kg), height (in cm), 4 skinfold thicknesses [(STs) in mm], and 6 circumferences (in cm). Sex-specific multiple linear regression models were developed with %BF as the dependent variable and age, residence (rural or urban), and all anthropometric measures as independent variables (the "full" model). A "simplified" model was developed by using age, residence, weight, height, and arm, abdominal, and calf circumferences as independent variables. The preferred full models were %BF = -80.261 - (weight x 0.623) + (height x 0.214) + (tricipital ST x 0.379) + (abdominal ST x 0.202) + (abdominal circumference x 0.940) + (thigh circumference x 0.316); root mean square error (RMSE) = 3.0; and pure error (PE) = 3.4 for men and %BF = -15.471 + (tricipital ST x 0.332) + (subscapular ST x 0.154) + (abdominal ST x 0.119) + (hip circumference x 0.356); RMSE = 2.4; and PE = 2.9 for women. The preferred simplified models were %BF = -48.472 - (weight x 0.257) + (abdominal circumference x 0.989); RMSE = 3.8; and PE = 3.7 for men and %BF = 19.420 + (weight x 0.385) - (height x 0.215) + (abdominal circumference x 0.265); RMSE = 3.5; and PE = 3.5 for women. These equations performed better in this developing-country population than did previously published equations.

Waist-to-Hip Ratio is Related to Body Fat Content and Distribution Regardless of the Waist Circumference Measurement Protocol in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Patients.

PubMed

Pimenta, Nuno M; Santa-Clara, Helena; Melo, Xavier; Cortez-Pinto, Helena; Silva-Nunes, José; Sardinha, Luís B

2016-08-01

Central accumulation and distribution of body fat (BF) is an important cardiometabolic risk factor. Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), commonly elevated in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients, has been endorsed as a risk related marker of central BF content and distribution, but no standardized waist circumference measurement protocol (WCmp) has been proposed. We aimed to investigate whether using different WCmp affects the strength of association between WHR and BF content and distribution in NAFLD patients. BF was assessed with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in 28 NAFLD patients (19 males, 51 ± 13 years, and 9 females, 47 ± 13 years). Waist circumference (WC) was measured using four different WCmp (WC1: minimal waist; WC2: iliac crest; WC3: mid-distance between iliac crest and lowest rib; WC4: at the umbilicus) and WHR was calculated accordingly (WHR1, WHR2, WHR3 and WHR4, respectively). High WHR was found in up to 84.6% of subjects, depending on the WHR considered. With the exception of WHR1, all WHR correlated well with abdominal BF (r = .47 for WHR1; r = .59 for WHR2 and WHR3; r = .58 for WHR4) and BF distribution (r = .45 for WHR1; r = .56 for WHR2 and WHR3; r = .51 for WHR4), controlling for age, sex and body mass index (BMI). WHR2 and WHR3 diagnosed exactly the same prevalence of high WHR (76.9%). The present study confirms the strong relation between WHR and central BF, regardless of WCmp used, in NAFLD patients. WHR2 and WHR3 seemed preferable for use in clinical practice, interchangeably, for the diagnosis of high WHR in NAFLD patients.

The development and validation of new equations for estimating body fat percentage among Chinese men and women.

PubMed

Liu, Xin; Sun, Qi; Sun, Liang; Zong, Geng; Lu, Ling; Liu, Gang; Rosner, Bernard; Ye, Xingwang; Li, Huaixing; Lin, Xu

2015-05-14

Equations based on simple anthropometric measurements to predict body fat percentage (BF%) are lacking in Chinese population with increasing prevalence of obesity and related abnormalities. We aimed to develop and validate BF% equations in two independent population-based samples of Chinese men and women. The equations were developed among 960 Chinese Hans living in Shanghai (age 46.2 (SD 5.3) years; 36.7% male) using a stepwise linear regression and were subsequently validated in 1150 Shanghai residents (58.7 (SD 6.0) years; 41.7% male; 99% Chinese Hans, 1% Chinese minorities). The associations of equation-derived BF% with changes of 6-year cardiometabolic outcomes and incident type 2 diabetes (T2D) were evaluated in a sub-cohort of 780 Chinese, compared with BF% measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA; BF%-DXA). Sex-specific equations were established with age, BMI and waist circumference as independent variables. The BF% calculated using new sex-specific equations (BF%-CSS) were in reasonable agreement with BF%-DXA (mean difference: 0.08 (2 SD 6.64) %, P= 0.606 in men; 0.45 (2 SD 6.88) %, P< 0.001 in women). In multivariate-adjusted models, the BF%-CSS and BF%-DXA showed comparable associations with 6-year changes in TAG, HDL-cholesterol, diastolic blood pressure, C-reactive protein and uric acid (P for comparisons ≥ 0.05). Meanwhile, the BF%-CSS and BF%-DXA had comparable areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves for associations with incident T2D (men P= 0.327; women P= 0.159). The BF% equations might be used as surrogates for DXA to estimate BF% among adult Chinese. More studies are needed to evaluate the application of our equations in different populations.

Obesity and coronary artery calcification: Can it explain the obesity-paradox?

PubMed

Aljizeeri, Ahmed; Coutinho, Thais; Pen, Ally; Chen, Li; Yam, Yeung; Dent, Robert; McPherson, Ruth; Chow, Benjamin J W

2015-06-01

The inverse relationship between obesity and adverse cardiovascular outcomes has been coined the 'obesity-paradox'. We sought to determine the relationship between measures of obesity [body mass index (BMI), body surface area (BSA) and body fat percentage (BF%)] and coronary artery calcification (CAC). We retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent CAC using the Agatston score. Baseline demographics were collected and BMI, BSA and BF% were calculated. A two-stage regression modeling approach was used to evaluate the association between BMI, BSA, BF% and Agatston score. Of the 6661 patients [mean age = 57.1 ± 10.8 years, men = 54.3%, median Agatston score = 14 (0, 163)], 0.1% were underweight, 21.3% had normal BMI, 39.1% were overweight and 39.4% were obese. The mean BMI, BSA and BF% were 29.6 ± 6.1 kg/m(2), 1.97 ± 0.25 m(2) and 37 ± 10 %, respectively. There was an independent association between the presence of CAC and BMI (5 kg/m(2) increments) (OR 1.05, CI 1.00-1.11, P = 0.038) and BF% (OR 2.38, CI 1.05-5.41, P = 0.038). Neither BMI categories nor large BSA independently predicted the presence of CAC. BF% predicted the extent of CAC in men but not in women, and higher BF% was associated with higher category of CAC severity in men only. BMI and BF% were independent predictors of the presence of CAC. BF% was associated with the extent of CAC and higher BF% was associated with higher category of CAC severity in men only. These results suggest that further study is needed to better understand the obesity-paradox.

Genetic activation, inactivation and deletion reveal a limited and nuanced role for somatostatin-containing basal forebrain neurons in behavioral state control.

PubMed

Anaclet, Christelle; De Luca, Roberto; Venner, Anne; Malyshevskaya, Olga; Lazarus, Michael; Arrigoni, Elda; Fuller, Patrick M

2018-05-07

Recent studies have identified an especially important role for basal forebrain GABAergic (BF VGAT ) neurons in the regulation of behavioral waking and fast cortical rhythms associated with cognition. However, BF VGAT neurons comprise several neurochemically and anatomically distinct sub-populations, including parvalbumin- and somatostatin-containing BF VGAT neurons (BF Parv and BF SOM ), and it was recently reported that optogenetic activation of BF SOM neurons increases the probability of a wakefulness to non-rapid-eye movement (NREM) sleep transition when stimulated during the animal's rest period. This finding was unexpected given that most BF SOM neurons are not NREM sleep active and that central administration of the synthetic SOM analog, octreotide, suppresses NREM sleep or increases REM sleep. Here we employed a combination of genetically-driven chemogenetic and optogenetic activation, chemogenetic inhibition and ablation approaches to further explore the in vivo role of BF SOM neurons in arousal control. Our findings indicate that acute activation or inhibition of BF SOM neurons is neither wakefulness- nor NREM sleep-promoting, is without significant effect on the EEG, and that chronic loss of these neurons is without effect on total 24h sleep amounts, although a small but significant increase in waking was observed in the lesioned mice during the early active period. Our in vitro cell recordings further reveal electrophysiological heterogeneity in BF SOM neurons, specifically suggesting at least two distinct sub-populations. Taken together our data support the more nuanced view that BF SOM are electrically heterogeneous and are not NREM sleep- or wake-promoting per se , but may exert, in particular during the early active period, a modest inhibitory influence on arousal circuitry. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The cellular basal forebrain (BF) is a highly complex area of the brain that is implicated in a wide-range of higher-level neurobiological processes, including regulating and maintaining normal levels of electrocortical and behavioral arousal. The respective in vivo roles of BF cell populations and their neurotransmitter systems in the regulation of electrocortical and behavioral arousal remains incompletely understood. Here we seek to define the neurobiological contribution of GABAergic somatostanin-containing BF neurons to arousal control. Understanding the respective contribution of BF cell populations to arousal control may provide critical insight into the pathogenesis of a host of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia and the cognitive impairments of normal aging. Copyright © 2018 the authors.

Electromyogram biofeedback training for daytime clenching and its effect on sleep bruxism.

PubMed

Sato, M; Iizuka, T; Watanabe, A; Iwase, N; Otsuka, H; Terada, N; Fujisawa, M

2015-02-01

Bruxism contributes to the development of temporomandibular disorders as well as causes dental problems. Although it is an important issue in clinical dentistry, no treatment approaches have been proven effective. This study aimed to use electromyogram (EMG) biofeedback (BF) training to improve awake bruxism (AB) and examine its effect on sleep bruxism (SB). Twelve male participants (mean age, 26·8 ± 2·5 years) with subjective symptoms of AB or a diagnosis of SB were randomly divided into BF (n = 7) and control (CO, n = 5) groups to undergo 5-h daytime and night-time EMG measurements for three consecutive weeks. EMG electrodes were placed over the temporalis muscle on the habitual masticatory side. Those in the BF group underwent BF training to remind them of the occurrence of undesirable clenching activity when excessive EMG activity of certain burst duration was generated in week 2. Then, EMGs were recorded at week 3 as the post-BF test. Those in the CO group underwent EMG measurement without any EMG BF training throughout the study period. Although the number of tonic EMG events did not show statistically significant differences among weeks 1-3 in the CO group, events in weeks 2 and 3 decreased significantly compared with those in week 1, both daytime and night-time, in the BF group (P < 0·05, Scheffé's test). This study results suggest that EMG BF to improve AB tonic EMG events can also provide an effective approach to regulate SB tonic EMG events. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Molecular cloning, structural analysis and expression of complement component Bf/C2 genes in the nurse shark, Ginglymostoma cirratum.

PubMed

Shin, Dong-Ho; Webb, Barbara; Nakao, Miki; Smith, Sylvia L

2007-01-01

Factor B and C2 are serine proteases that provide the catalytic subunits of C3 and C5 convertases of the alternative (AP) and classical (CP) complement pathways. Two Bf/C2 cDNAs, GcBf/C2-1 and -2 (previously referred to as nsBf/C2-A and nsBf/C2-B), were isolated from the nurse shark, Ginglymostoma cirratum. GcBf/C2-1 and -2 are 3364 and 3082bp in length and encode a leader peptide, three CCPs, one VWFA, the serine protease domain and have a putative factor D/C1s/MASP cleavage site. Southern blots show that there might be up to two Bf/C2-like genes for each of the two GcBf/C2 isoforms. GcBf/C2-1 and -2 are constitutively expressed, albeit at different levels, in all nine tissues examined. Expression in erythrocytes is a novel finding. Structural analysis has revealed that the localization of glycosylation sites in the SP domain of both putative proteins indicates that the molecular organization of the shark molecules is more like C2 than factor B. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that GcBf/C2-1 and -2 and TrscBf of Triakis scyllia (another shark species) originated from a common ancestor and share a remote ancestor with Bf and C2 of mammals and bony fish.

Liquid/vapor-induced reversible dynamic structural transformation of a three-dimensional Cu-based MOF to a one-dimensional MOF showing gate adsorption.

PubMed

Kondo, Atsushi; Suzuki, Takayuki; Kotani, Ryosuke; Maeda, Kazuyuki

2017-05-23

A new 3D metal-organic framework (MOF), in which 2D layers are interlaced to form a 3D architecture, was synthesized by a reaction of Cu(BF 4 ) 2 and 1,3-bis(4-pyridyl)propane (bpp) in a water/1-hexanol solvent system, and the crystal structure of the MOF was successfully solved. The MOF is reversibly transformed to a 1D chain MOF, which shows gate adsorption properties. The dynamic transformation gives crystal size reduction resulting in a slight change in CO 2 adsorption isotherms. The 1D MOF shows selective adsorption/separation properties on benzene and its analogues with similar sizes and shapes (benzene, toluene, and cyclohexane).

Production of transgenic cattle highly expressing human serum albumin in milk by phiC31 integrase-mediated gene delivery.

PubMed

Luo, Yan; Wang, Yongsheng; Liu, Jun; Lan, Hui; Shao, Minghao; Yu, Yuan; Quan, Fusheng; Zhang, Yong

2015-10-01

Transgenic cattle expressing high levels of recombinant human serum albumin (HSA) in their milk may as an alternative source for commercial production. Our objective was to produce transgenic cattle highly expressing HSA in milk by using phiC31 integrase system and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). The mammary-specific expression plasmid pIACH(-), containing the attB recognition site for phiC31 integrase, were co-transfected with integrase expression plasmid pCMVInt into bovine fetal fibroblast cells (BFFs). PhiC31 integrase-mediated integrations in genome of BFFs were screened by nested inverse PCR. After analysis of sequence of the PCR products, 46.0% (23/50) of the both attB-genome junction sites (attL and attR) were confirmed, and four pseudo attP sites were identified. The integration rates in BF3, BF11, BF19 and BF4 sites were 4.0% (2/50), 6.0% (3/50), 16.0% (8/50) and 20.0% (10/50), respectively. BF3 is located in the bovine chromosome 3 collagen alpha-3 (VI) chain isomer 2 gene, while the other three sites are located in the non-coding region. The transgenic cell lines from BF11, BF19 and BF4 sites were used as donors for SCNT. Two calves from transgenic cells BF19 were born, one died within a few hours after birth, and another calf survived healthy. PCR and Southern blot analysis revealed integration of the transgene in the genome of cloned calves. The nested reverse PCR confirmed that the integration site in cloned calves was identical to the donor cells. The western blotting assessment indicated that recombinant HSA was expressed in the milk of transgenic cattle and the expression level was about 4-8 mg/mL. The present study demonstrated that phiC31 integrase system was an efficient and safety gene delivery tool for producing HSA transgenic cattle. The production of recombinant HSA in the milk of cattle may provide a large-scale and cost-effective resource.

Promising silicones modified with cationic biocides for the development of antimicrobial medical devices.

PubMed

Ghamrawi, Sarah; Bouchara, Jean-Philippe; Tarasyuk, Oksana; Rogalsky, Sergiy; Lyoshina, Lyudmila; Bulko, Olga; Bardeau, Jean-François

2017-06-01

We have tested silicones containing 2% or 5% of the cationic biocides polyhexamethylene guanidine dodecylbenzenesulfonate (PHMG-DBS), 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (OMIM-BF 4 ) or 1-dodecyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (DMIM-BF 4 ) against the major relevant bacterial and yeast species in health care-associated infections (HCAI). Study conducted according to the international standard ISO 22196 revealed that silicones containing 2% or 5% DMIM-BF 4 or 5% PHMG-DBS presented the highest antimicrobial activity, leading to a logarithmic growth reduction of 3.03 to 6.46 and 3.65 to 4.85 depending on the bacterial or fungal species. Heat-pretreated silicones containing 2% DMIM-BF 4 kept a high activity, with at least a 3-log reduction in bacterial growth, except against P. aeruginosa where there was only a 1.1-log reduction. After 33days, the release ratio of cationic biocide from silicone films containing 5% of DMIM-BF 4 was found to be 5.6% in pure water and 1.9% in physiological saline solution, respectively. No leaching of PHMG-DBS polymeric biocide was detected under the same conditions. These results demonstrate unambiguously that silicones containing 2% DMIM-BF 4 or 5% PHMG-DBS present high antimicrobial activity, as well as high leaching resistance and therefore may be good candidates for the development of safer medical devices. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Validity and Reliability of Assessing Body Composition Using a Mobile Application.

PubMed

Macdonald, Elizabeth Z; Vehrs, Pat R; Fellingham, Gilbert W; Eggett, Dennis; George, James D; Hager, Ronald

2017-12-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the validity and reliability of the LeanScreen (LS) mobile application that estimates percent body fat (%BF) using estimates of circumferences from photographs. The %BF of 148 weight-stable adults was estimated once using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Each of two administrators assessed the %BF of each subject twice using the LS app and manually measured circumferences. A mixed-model ANOVA and Bland-Altman analyses were used to compare the estimates of %BF obtained from each method. Interrater and intrarater reliabilities values were determined using multiple measurements taken by each of the two administrators. The LS app and manually measured circumferences significantly underestimated (P < 0.05) the %BF determined using DXA by an average of -3.26 and -4.82 %BF, respectively. The LS app (6.99 %BF) and manually measured circumferences (6.76 %BF) had large limits of agreement. All interrater and intrarater reliability coefficients of estimates of %BF using the LS app and manually measured circumferences exceeded 0.99. The estimates of %BF from manually measured circumferences and the LS app were highly reliable. However, these field measures are not currently recommended for the assessment of body composition because of significant bias and large limits of agreements.

BF 3-promoted electrochemical properties of quinoxaline in propylene carbonate

DOE PAGES

Carino, Emily V.; Diesendruck, Charles E.; Moore, Jeffrey S.; ...

2015-02-04

Electrochemical and density functional studies demonstrate that coordination of electrolyte constituents to quinoxalines modulates their electrochemical properties. Quinoxalines are shown to be electrochemically inactive in most electrolytes in propylene carbonate, yet the predicted reduction potential is shown to match computational estimates in acetonitrile. We find that in the presence of LiBF 4 and trace water, an adduct is formed between quinoxaline and the Lewis acid BF3, which then displays electrochemical activity at 1–1.5 V higher than prior observations of quinoxaline electrochemistry in non-aqueous media. Direct synthesis and testing of a bis-BF 3 quinoxaline complex further validates the assignment of themore » electrochemically active species, presenting up to a ~26-fold improvement in charging capacity, demonstrating the advantages of this adduct over unmodified quinoxaline in LiBF 4-based electrolyte. The use of Lewis acids to effectively “turn on” the electrochemical activity of organic molecules may lead to the development of new active material classes for energy storage applications.« less

Evaluation of the BOD POD and leg-to-leg bioelectrical impedance analysis for estimating percent body fat in National Collegiate Athletic Association Division III collegiate wrestlers.

PubMed

Dixon, Curt B; Deitrick, Ronald W; Pierce, Joseph R; Cutrufello, Paul T; Drapeau, Linda L

2005-02-01

The purpose of this study was to compare percent body fat (%BF) estimated by air displacement plethysmography (ADP) and leg-to-leg bioelectrical impedance analysis (LBIA) with hydrostatic weighing (HW) in a group (n = 25) of NCAA Division III collegiate wrestlers. Body composition was assessed during the preseason wrestling weight certification program (WCP) using the NCAA approved methods (HW, 3-site skinfold [SF], and ADP) and LBIA, which is currently an unaccepted method of assessment. A urine specific gravity less than 1.020, measured by refractometry, was required before all testing. Each subject had all of the assessments performed on the same day. LBIA measurements (Athletic mode) were determined using a Tanita body fat analyzer (model TBF-300A). Hydrostatic weighing, corrected for residual lung volume, was used as the criterion measurement. The %BF data (mean +/- SD) were LBIA (12.3 +/- 4.6), ADP (13.8 +/- 6.3), SF (14.2 +/- 5.3), and HW (14.5 +/- 6.0). %BF estimated by LBIA was significantly (p < 0.01) smaller than HW and SF. There were no significant differences in body density or %BF estimated by ADP, SF, and HW. All methods showed significant correlations (r = 0.80-0.96; p < 0.01) with HW. The standard errors of estimate (SEE) for %BF were 1.68, 1.87, and 3.60%; pure errors (PE) were 1.88, 1.94, and 4.16% (ADP, SF, and LBIA, respectively). Bland-Atman plots for %BF demonstrated no systematic bias for ADP, SF, and LBIA when compared with HW. These preliminary findings support the use of ADP and SF for estimating %BF during the NCAA WCP in Division III wrestlers. LBIA, which consistently underestimated %BF, is not supported by these data as a valid assessment method for this athletic group.

A nonlinear filter-bank model of the guinea-pig cochlear nerve: Rate responses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sumner, Christian J.; O'Mard, Lowel P.; Lopez-Poveda, Enrique A.; Meddis, Ray

2003-06-01

The aim of this study is to produce a functional model of the auditory nerve (AN) response of the guinea-pig that reproduces a wide range of important responses to auditory stimulation. The model is intended for use as an input to larger scale models of auditory processing in the brain-stem. A dual-resonance nonlinear filter architecture is used to reproduce the mechanical tuning of the cochlea. Transduction to the activity on the AN is accomplished with a recently proposed model of the inner-hair-cell. Together, these models have been shown to be able to reproduce the response of high-, medium-, and low-spontaneous rate fibers from the guinea-pig AN at high best frequencies (BFs). In this study we generate parameters that allow us to fit the AN model to data from a wide range of BFs. By varying the characteristics of the mechanical filtering as a function of the BF it was possible to reproduce the BF dependence of frequency-threshold tuning curves, AN rate-intensity functions at and away from BF, compression of the basilar membrane at BF as inferred from AN responses, and AN iso-intensity functions. The model is a convenient computational tool for the simulation of the range of nonlinear tuning and rate-responses found across the length of the guinea-pig cochlear nerve.

Is BMI a valid measure of obesity in postmenopausal women?

PubMed

Banack, Hailey R; Wactawski-Wende, Jean; Hovey, Kathleen M; Stokes, Andrew

2018-03-01

Body mass index (BMI) is a widely used indicator of obesity status in clinical settings and population health research. However, there are concerns about the validity of BMI as a measure of obesity in postmenopausal women. Unlike BMI, which is an indirect measure of obesity and does not distinguish lean from fat mass, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) provides a direct measure of body fat and is considered a gold standard of adiposity measurement. The goal of this study is to examine the validity of using BMI to identify obesity in postmenopausal women relative to total body fat percent measured by DXA scan. Data from 1,329 postmenopausal women participating in the Buffalo OsteoPerio Study were used in this analysis. At baseline, women ranged in age from 53 to 85 years. Obesity was defined as BMI ≥ 30 kg/m and body fat percent (BF%) greater than 35%, 38%, or 40%. We calculated sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value to evaluate the validity of BMI-defined obesity relative BF%. We further explored the validity of BMI relative to BF% using graphical tools, such as scatterplots and receiver-operating characteristic curves. Youden's J index was used to determine the empirical optimal BMI cut-point for each level of BF% defined obesity. The sensitivity of BMI-defined obesity was 32.4% for 35% body fat, 44.6% for 38% body fat, and 55.2% for 40% body fat. Corresponding specificity values were 99.3%, 97.1%, and 94.6%, respectively. The empirical optimal BMI cut-point to define obesity is 24.9 kg/m for 35% BF, 26.49 kg/m for 38% BF, and 27.05 kg/m for 40% BF according to the Youden's index. Results demonstrate that a BMI cut-point of 30 kg/m does not appear to be an appropriate indicator of true obesity status in postmenopausal women. Empirical estimates of the validity of BMI from this study may be used by other investigators to account for BMI-related misclassification in older women.

Relationship between Body Mass Index (BMI) and body fat percentage, estimated by bioelectrical impedance, in a group of Sri Lankan adults: a cross sectional study.

PubMed

Ranasinghe, Chathuranga; Gamage, Prasanna; Katulanda, Prasad; Andraweera, Nalinda; Thilakarathne, Sithira; Tharanga, Praveen

2013-09-03

Body Mass Index (BMI) is used as a useful population-level measure of overweight and obesity. It is used as the same for both sexes and for all ages of adults. The relationship between BMI and body fat percentage (BF %) has been studied in various ethnic groups to estimate the capacity of BMI to predict adiposity. We aimed to study the BMI-BF% relationship, in a group of South Asian adults who have a different body composition compared to presently studied ethnic groups. We examined the influence of age, gender in this relationship and assessed its' linearity or curvilinearity. A cross sectional study was conducted, where adults of 18-83 years were grouped into young (18-39 years) middle aged (40-59 years) and elderly (>60 years). BF% was estimated from bioelectrical impedance analysis. Pearsons' correlation coefficient(r) was calculated to see the relationship between BMI-BF% in the different age groups. Multiple regression analysis was performed to determine the effect of age and gender in the relationship and polynomial regression was carried out to see its' linearity. The relationships between age-BMI, age-BF % were separately assessed. Out of 1114 participants, 49.1% were males. The study sample represented a wide range of BMI values (14.8-41.1 kg/m2,Mean 23.8 ± 4.2 kg/m2). A significant positive correlation was observed between BMI-BF%, in males (r =0.75, p < 0.01; SEE = 4.17) and in females (r = 0.82, p < 0.01; SEE = 3.54) of all ages. Effect of age and gender in the BMI-BF% relationship was significant (p < 0.001); with more effect from gender. Regression line found to be curvilinear in nature at higher BMI values where females (p < 0.000) having a better fit of the curve compared to males (p < 0.05). In both genders, with increase of age, BMI seemed to increase in curvilinear fashion, whereas BF% increased in a linear fashion. BMI strongly correlate with BF % estimated by bioelectrical impedance, in this sub population of South Asian adults. This relationship was curvilinear in nature and was significantly influenced by age and gender. Our findings support the importance of taking age and gender in to consideration when using BMI to predict body fat percentage/obesity, in a population.

Intramuscular adipose tissue determined by T1-weighted MRI at 3T primarily reflects extramyocellular lipids.

PubMed

Akima, Hiroshi; Hioki, Maya; Yoshiko, Akito; Koike, Teruhiko; Sakakibara, Hisataka; Takahashi, Hideyuki; Oshida, Yoshiharu

2016-05-01

The purpose of this study was to assess relationships between intramuscular adipose tissue (IntraMAT) content determined by MRI and intramyocellular lipids (IMCL) and extramyocellular lipids (EMCL) determined by (1)H magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((1)H MRS) or echo intensity determined by B-mode ultrasonography of human skeletal muscles. Thirty young and elderly men and women were included. T1-weighted MRI was taken from the right mid-thigh to measure IntraMAT content of the vastus lateralis (VL) and biceps femoris (BF) using a histogram shape-based thresholding technique. IMCL and EMCL were measured from the VL and BF at the right mid-thigh using (1)H MRS. Ultrasonographic images were taken from the VL and BF of the right mid-thigh to measure echo intensity based on gray-scale level for quantitative analysis. There was a significant correlation between IntraMAT content by MRI and EMCL of the VL and BF (VL, r=0.506, P<0.01; BF, r=0.591, P<0.001) and between echo intensity and EMCL of the VL and BF (VL, r=0.485, P<0.05; BF, r=0.648, P<0.01). IntraMAT content was also significantly correlated with echo intensity of the VL and BF (VL, r=0.404, P<0.05; BF, r=0.493, P<0.01). Our study suggests that IntraMAT content determined by T1-weighted MRI at 3T primarily reflects extramyocellular lipids, not intramyocellular lipids, in human skeletal muscles. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

BMI or BIA: Is Body Mass Index or Body Fat Mass a Better Predictor of Cardiovascular Risk in Overweight or Obese Children and Adolescents? A German/Austrian/Swiss Multicenter APV Analysis of 3,327 Children and Adolescents.

PubMed

Bohn, Barbara; Müller, Manfred James; Simic-Schleicher, Gunter; Kiess, Wieland; Siegfried, Wolfgang; Oelert, Monika; Tuschy, Sabine; Berghem, Stefan; Holl, Reinhard W

2015-01-01

Body fat (BF) percentiles for German children and adolescents have recently been published. This study aims to evaluate the association between bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)-derived BF and cardiovascular risk factors and to investigate whether BF is better suited than BMI in children and adolescents. Data of 3,327 children and adolescents (BMI > 90th percentile) were included. Spearman's correlation and receiver operating characteristics (ROCs) were applied determining the associations between BMI or BF and cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, dyslipidemia, elevated liver enzymes, abnormal carbohydrate metabolism). Area under the curve (AUC) was calculated to predict cardiovascular risk factors. A significant association between both obesity indices and hypertension was present (all p < 0.0001), but the correlation with BMI was stronger (r = 0.22) compared to BF (r = 0.13). There were no differences between BMI and BF regarding their correlation with other cardiovascular risk factors. BF significantly predicted hypertension (AUC = 0.61), decreased HDL-cholesterol (AUC = 0.58), elevated LDL-cholesterol (AUC = 0.59), elevated liver enzymes (AUC = 0.61) (all p < 0.0001), and elevated triglycerides (AUC = 0.57, p < 0.05), but not abnormal carbohydrate metabolism (AUC = 0.54, p = 0.15). For the prediction of cardiovascular risk factors, no significant differences between BMI and BF were observed. BIA-derived BF was not superior to BMI to predict cardiovascular risk factors in overweight or obese children and adolescents.

Agonist and antagonist muscle activation in elite athletes: influence of age.

PubMed

Quinzi, Federico; Camomilla, Valentina; Felici, Francesco; Di Mario, Alberto; Sbriccoli, Paola

2015-01-01

Age-related neuromuscular control adaptations have been investigated mainly in untrained populations, where higher antagonist activation in adults was observed with respect to children. In elite athletes age-related differences in neuromuscular control have scarcely been investigated. Therefore, this study aims at investigating differences in co-activation about the knee joint in two groups of karate athletes belonging to the Junior (JK) and Senior (SK) age categories, performing the roundhouse kick (RK). Six SK and six JK performed the RK impacting on a punching bag. Each participant performed three attempts during which kicking limb kinematics and sEMG from the vastus lateralis (VL) and from the biceps femoris (BF) were recorded. Co-activation index during knee flexion and extension (CIF; CIE) and agonist and antagonist activation areas of VL and BF (I AGO-VL; I AGO-BF; I ANT-VL; I ANT-BF) were computed. Hip and knee range of motion, peak angular velocity and minima and maxima of lower limb angular momentum were computed. During knee extension, the SK demonstrated higher CIE, higher IANT-BF and higher total angular momentum with respect to the JK. Significant relationships were observed between I ANT-BF and total angular momentum maxima, and between I ANT-BF and age. IANT-BF is partially related to the age of the group and to joint protection upon impact. Moreover, given the very brief duration of the task, a feed-forward mechanism modulating antagonist activation partly based on the stress imposed on the knee joint could be hypothesized. This mechanism potentially involves skill dependent re-modelling of the peripheral and central nervous system.

Determination of triazine herbicides in fresh vegetables by dynamic microwave-assisted extraction coupled with homogeneous ionic liquid microextraction high performance liquid chromatography.

PubMed

Wu, Lijie; Hu, Mingzhu; Li, Zhanchao; Song, Ying; Yu, Cui; Zhang, Yupu; Zhang, Hanqi; Yu, Aimin; Ma, Qiang; Wang, Ziming

2015-02-01

A novel extraction method, dynamic microwave-assisted extraction coupled with homogeneous ionic liquid microextraction, was developed for the determination of triazine herbicides, including desmetryn, terbumeton, propazine, terbuthylazine, dimethametryn, and dipropetryn in fresh vegetable samples by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). In the developed method, 120 μL of 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([C4MIM][BF4]) was added to 10 mL of aqueous solution containing 0.3 g of NaCl to obtained the extraction solvent. Six triazines could be extracted completely within 4 min by the present method. Then, [NH4][PF6] was added into the extract to form a water-insoluble ionic liquid [C4MIM][PF6] via a simple metathesis reaction, and the analytes were enriched into the ionic liquid phase. After centrifugation and dilution with acetonitrile, the resulting solution was analyzed directly by HPLC. The effects of some experimental parameters, including type and volume of ionic liquid, volume of extraction solvent, amount of ion-pairing agent [NH4][PF6], salt concentration, microwave power, and flow rate of extraction solvent on the extraction efficiency were investigated and optimized. Under the optimum experimental conditions, the linearity for determining the analytes was in the range of 2.50-250.00 μg kg(-1), with the correlation coefficients ranging from 0.9989 to 0.9999. When the present method was applied to the analysis of vegetable samples, satisfactory recoveries were obtained in the range of 76.8%-106.9%, and relative standard deviations were lower than 9.8%.

Novel nanohybrids of cobalt(III) Schiff base complexes and clay: synthesis and structural determinations.

PubMed

Kianfar, Ali Hossein; Mahmood, Wan Ahmad Kamil; Dinari, Mohammad; Azarian, Mohammad Hossein; Khafri, Fatemeh Zare

2014-06-05

The [Co(Me(2)Salen)(PBu(3))(OH(2))]BF4 and [Co(Me(2)Salen)(PPh(3))(Solv)]BF(4), complexes were synthesized and characterized by FT-IR, UV-Vis, (1)H NMR spectroscopy and elemental analysis techniques. The coordination geometry of [Co(Me(2)Salen)(PPh(3))(H(2)O)]BF(4) was determined by X-ray crystallography. It has been found that the complex is containing [Co(Me(2)Salen)(PPh(3))(H(2)O)]BF(4) and [Co(Me(2)Salen)(PPh(3))(EtOH)]BF(4) hexacoordinate species in the solid state. Cobalt atom exhibits a distorted octahedral geometry and the Me(2)Salen ligand has the N2O2 coordinated environment in the equatorial plane. The [Co(Me(2)Salen)(PPh(3))(H(2)O)]BF(4) complex shows a dimeric structure via hydrogen bonding between the phenolate oxygen and hydrogens of coordinated H2O molecule. These complexes were incorporated into Montmorillonite-K10 nanoclay. The modified clays were identified by FT-IR, XRD, EDX, TGA/DTA, SEM and TEM techniques. According to the XRD results of the new nanohybrid materials, the Schiff base complexes are intercalated in the interlayer spaces of the clay. SEM and TEM micrographs show that the resulting hybrid nanomaterials have layer structures. Also, TGA/DTG results show that the intercalation reaction was taken place successfully. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Joint association between body fat and its distribution with all-cause mortality: A data linkage cohort study based on NHANES (1988-2011)

PubMed Central

Peng, Yang; Wang, Zhiqiang; Adegbija, Odewumi; Hu, Jie; Ma, Jun; Ma, Ying-Hua

2018-01-01

Objective Although obesity is recognized as an important risk of mortality, how the amount and distribution of body fat affect mortality risk is unclear. Furthermore, whether fat distribution confers any additional risk of mortality in addition to fat amount is not understood. Methods This data linkage cohort study included 16415 participants (8554 females) aged 18 to 89 years from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III (1988–1994) and its linked mortality data (31 December 2011). Cox proportional hazard models and parametric survival models were used to estimate the association between body fat percentage (BF%), based on bioelectrical impedance analysis, and waist-hip ratio (WHR) with mortality. Results A total of 4999 deaths occurred during 19-year follow-up. A U-shaped association between BF% and mortality was found in both sexes, with the adjusted hazard ratios for other groups between 1.02 (95% confidence interval: 0.89, 1.18) and 2.10 (1.47, 3.01) when BF% groups of 25–30% in males and 30–35% in females were used as references. A non-linear relationship between WHR and mortality was detected in males, with the adjusted hazard ratios among other groups ranging from 1.05 (0.94, 1.18) to 1.52 (1.15, 2.00) compared with the WHR category of 0.95–1.0. However in females, the death risk constantly increased across the WHR spectrum. Joint impact of BF% and WHR suggested males with BF% of 25–30% and WHR of 0.95–1.0 and females with BF% of 30–35% and WHR <0.9 were associated with the lowest mortality risk and longest survival age compared with their counterparts in other categories. Conclusions This study supported the use of body fat distribution in addition to fat amount in assessing the risk of all-cause mortality. PMID:29474498

The Phoenix definition of biochemical failure predicts for overall survival in patients with prostate cancer.

PubMed

Abramowitz, Matthew C; Li, Tiaynu; Buyyounouski, Mark K; Ross, Eric; Uzzo, Robert G; Pollack, Alan; Horwitz, Eric M

2008-01-01

The American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ASTRO) definition of biochemical failure (BF) incorporates backdating, resulting in an artificial flattening of Kaplan-Meier curves and overly favorable estimates when follow-up is short. The nadir + 2 ng/mL (Nadir + 2; Phoenix) definition reduces these artifacts. The objective of the current study was to compare ASTRO and Phoenix BF estimates as determinants of distant metastasis (DM), cause-specific mortality (CSM), and overall mortality (OM). A total of 1831 patients with T1-4N0M0 prostate cancer were treated with external beam radiotherapy (RT) using conventional or three-dimensional conformal methods to at least 60 grays (Gy). The median follow-up was 71 months and the median RT dose was 72 Gy (range, 60-79 Gy). Cox regression models incorporating BF as a time-dependent covariate were used for both univariate and multivariate analyses. Other covariates included in the analyses were T classification, Gleason score, neoadjuvant/adjuvant androgen deprivation, age, RT dose, and pretreatment prostate-specific antigen. BF was observed in 389 men (21%) using the Phoenix definition and 460 men (25%) using the ASTRO definition. DM was observed in 84 patients (5%), 48 patients (3%) patients died of prostate cancer, and 404 patients (22%) died of any cause. The Phoenix definition of BF was found to be a significant predictor of DM, CSM, and OM, after controlling for other significant covariates. The ASTRO definition was found to be associated with CSM and DM, but not OM. The Phoenix definition of BF is a more robust determinant of patient outcome compared with the ASTRO definition. The correlation with mortality, including OM, and the independence of this correlation from the use of neoadjuvant/adjuvant androgen deprivation, supports the use of Nadir + 2 in prostate cancer clinical trials of RT with or without androgen deprivation.

Joint association between body fat and its distribution with all-cause mortality: A data linkage cohort study based on NHANES (1988-2011).

PubMed

Dong, Bin; Peng, Yang; Wang, Zhiqiang; Adegbija, Odewumi; Hu, Jie; Ma, Jun; Ma, Ying-Hua

2018-01-01

Although obesity is recognized as an important risk of mortality, how the amount and distribution of body fat affect mortality risk is unclear. Furthermore, whether fat distribution confers any additional risk of mortality in addition to fat amount is not understood. This data linkage cohort study included 16415 participants (8554 females) aged 18 to 89 years from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III (1988-1994) and its linked mortality data (31 December 2011). Cox proportional hazard models and parametric survival models were used to estimate the association between body fat percentage (BF%), based on bioelectrical impedance analysis, and waist-hip ratio (WHR) with mortality. A total of 4999 deaths occurred during 19-year follow-up. A U-shaped association between BF% and mortality was found in both sexes, with the adjusted hazard ratios for other groups between 1.02 (95% confidence interval: 0.89, 1.18) and 2.10 (1.47, 3.01) when BF% groups of 25-30% in males and 30-35% in females were used as references. A non-linear relationship between WHR and mortality was detected in males, with the adjusted hazard ratios among other groups ranging from 1.05 (0.94, 1.18) to 1.52 (1.15, 2.00) compared with the WHR category of 0.95-1.0. However in females, the death risk constantly increased across the WHR spectrum. Joint impact of BF% and WHR suggested males with BF% of 25-30% and WHR of 0.95-1.0 and females with BF% of 30-35% and WHR <0.9 were associated with the lowest mortality risk and longest survival age compared with their counterparts in other categories. This study supported the use of body fat distribution in addition to fat amount in assessing the risk of all-cause mortality.

Validity and reliability of total body volume and relative body fat mass from a 3-dimensional photonic body surface scanner

PubMed Central

Mähler, Anja; Boschmann, Michael; Jeran, Stephanie

2017-01-01

Objective Three-dimensional photonic body surface scanners (3DPS) feature a tool to estimate total body volume (BV) from 3D images of the human body, from which the relative body fat mass (%BF) can be calculated. However, information on validity and reliability of these measurements for application in epidemiological studies is limited. Methods Validity was assessed among 32 participants (men, 50%) aged 20–58 years. BV and %BF were assessed using a 3DPS (VitusSmart XXL) and air displacement plethysmography (ADP) with a BOD POD® device using equations by Siri and Brozek. Three scans were obtained per participant (standard, relaxed, exhaled scan). Validity was evaluated based on the agreement of 3DPS with ADP using Bland Altman plots, correlation analysis and Wilcoxon signed ranks test for paired samples. Reliability was investigated in a separate sample of 18 participants (men, 67%) aged 25–66 years using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) based on two repeated 3DPS measurements four weeks apart. Results Mean BV and %BF were higher using 3DPS compared to ADP, (3DPS-ADP BV difference 1.1 ± 0.9 L, p<0.01; %BF difference 7.0 ± 5.6, p<0.01), yet the disagreement was not associated with gender, age or body mass index (BMI). Reliability was excellent for 3DPS BV (ICC, 0.998) and good for 3DPS %BF (ICC, 0.982). Results were similar for the standard scan and the relaxed scan but somewhat weaker for the exhaled scan. Conclusions Although BV and %BF are higher than ADP measurements, our data indicate good validity and reliability for an application of 3DPS in epidemiological studies. PMID:28672039

Validity and reliability of total body volume and relative body fat mass from a 3-dimensional photonic body surface scanner.

PubMed

Adler, Carolin; Steinbrecher, Astrid; Jaeschke, Lina; Mähler, Anja; Boschmann, Michael; Jeran, Stephanie; Pischon, Tobias

2017-01-01

Three-dimensional photonic body surface scanners (3DPS) feature a tool to estimate total body volume (BV) from 3D images of the human body, from which the relative body fat mass (%BF) can be calculated. However, information on validity and reliability of these measurements for application in epidemiological studies is limited. Validity was assessed among 32 participants (men, 50%) aged 20-58 years. BV and %BF were assessed using a 3DPS (VitusSmart XXL) and air displacement plethysmography (ADP) with a BOD POD® device using equations by Siri and Brozek. Three scans were obtained per participant (standard, relaxed, exhaled scan). Validity was evaluated based on the agreement of 3DPS with ADP using Bland Altman plots, correlation analysis and Wilcoxon signed ranks test for paired samples. Reliability was investigated in a separate sample of 18 participants (men, 67%) aged 25-66 years using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) based on two repeated 3DPS measurements four weeks apart. Mean BV and %BF were higher using 3DPS compared to ADP, (3DPS-ADP BV difference 1.1 ± 0.9 L, p<0.01; %BF difference 7.0 ± 5.6, p<0.01), yet the disagreement was not associated with gender, age or body mass index (BMI). Reliability was excellent for 3DPS BV (ICC, 0.998) and good for 3DPS %BF (ICC, 0.982). Results were similar for the standard scan and the relaxed scan but somewhat weaker for the exhaled scan. Although BV and %BF are higher than ADP measurements, our data indicate good validity and reliability for an application of 3DPS in epidemiological studies.

Multiline 3D beamforming using micro-beamformed datasets for pediatric transesophageal echocardiography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bera, D.; Raghunathan, S. B.; Chen, C.; Chen, Z.; Pertijs, M. A. P.; Verweij, M. D.; Daeichin, V.; Vos, H. J.; van der Steen, A. F. W.; de Jong, N.; Bosch, J. G.

2018-04-01

Until now, no matrix transducer has been realized for 3D transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in pediatric patients. In 3D TEE with a matrix transducer, the biggest challenges are to connect a large number of elements to a standard ultrasound system, and to achieve a high volume rate (>200 Hz). To address these issues, we have recently developed a prototype miniaturized matrix transducer for pediatric patients with micro-beamforming and a small central transmitter. In this paper we propose two multiline parallel 3D beamforming techniques (µBF25 and µBF169) using the micro-beamformed datasets from 25 and 169 transmit events to achieve volume rates of 300 Hz and 44 Hz, respectively. Both the realizations use angle-weighted combination of the neighboring overlapping sub-volumes to avoid artifacts due to sharp intensity changes introduced by parallel beamforming. In simulation, the image quality in terms of the width of the point spread function (PSF), lateral shift invariance and mean clutter level for volumes produced by µBF25 and µBF169 are similar to the idealized beamforming using a conventional single-line acquisition with a fully-sampled matrix transducer (FS4k, 4225 transmit events). For completeness, we also investigated a 9 transmit-scheme (3  ×  3) that allows even higher frame rates but found worse B-mode image quality with our probe. The simulations were experimentally verified by acquiring the µBF datasets from the prototype using a Verasonics V1 research ultrasound system. For both µBF169 and µBF25, the experimental PSFs were similar to the simulated PSFs, but in the experimental PSFs, the clutter level was ~10 dB higher. Results indicate that the proposed multiline 3D beamforming techniques with the prototype matrix transducer are promising candidates for real-time pediatric 3D TEE.

Generation and collision-induced dissociation of ammonium tetrafluoroborate cluster ions.

PubMed

Dain, Ryan P; Van Stipdonk, Michael J

2008-07-01

Singly and doubly charged cluster ions of ammonium tetrafluoroborate (NH4BF4) with general formula [(NH4BF4)nNH4]+ and [(NH4BF4)m(NH4)2]2+, respectively, were generated by electrospray ionization (ESI) and their fragmentation examined using collision-induced dissociation (CID) and ion-trap tandem mass spectrometry. CID of [(NH4BF4)nNH4]+ caused the loss of one or more neutral NH4BF4 units. The n = 2 cluster, [(NH4BF4)2NH4]+, was unique in that it also exhibited a dissociation pathway in which HBF4 was eliminated to create [(NH4BF4)(NH3)NH4]+. Dissociation of [(NH4BF4)m(NH4)2]2+ occurred through two general pathways: (a) 'fission' to produce singly charged cluster ions and (b) elimination of one or more neutral NH4BF4 units to leave doubly charged product ions. CID profiles, and measurements of changing precursor and product ion signal intensity as a function of applied collision voltage, were collected for [(NH4BF4)nNH4]+ and compared with those for analogous [(NaBF4)nNa]+ and [(KBF4)nK]+ ions to determine the influence of the cation on the relative stability of cluster ions. In general, the [(NH4BF4)nNH4]+ clusters were found to be easier to dissociate than both the sodium and potassium clusters of comparable size, with [(KBF4)nK]+ ions the most difficult to dissociate.

Photocatalytic degradation of an azo textile dye (C.I. Reactive Red 195 (3BF)) in aqueous solution over copper cobaltite nanocomposite coated on glass by Doctor Blade method.

PubMed

Habibi, Mohammad Hossein; Rezvani, Zoya

2015-08-05

The degradation of C.I. Reactive Red 195 (3BF) in aqueous solution using copper cobaltite nanocomposite coated on glass by Doctor Blade method was studied. Structural, optical and morphological properties of nanocomposite coatings were characterized by X-ray powder diffractometry (XRD), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The nanoparticles exhibit a particle size of 31 nm, showing a good nanoscale crystalline morphology. The photocatalytic activity of copper cobaltite nanocomposite coated on glass was studied by performing the photocatalytic degradation of 3BF at different irradiation time. The effect of irradiation time on the degradation of 3BF was studied and the results showed that more than 85% of the 3BF was degraded in 45 min of irradiation. The pseudo-first-order kinetic models were used and the rate constants were evaluated with pseudo first order rate constants of 4.10 × 10(-2) min(-1). The main advantage of the photocatalyst coated on glass overcomes the difficulties in separation and recycle of photocatalyst suspensions. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Flow Dynamics In Eccentrically Rotating Flasks Used For Dispersant Effectiveness Testing

EPA Science Inventory

The evaluation of dispersant effectiveness used for oil spills is commonly done using tests conducted in laboratory flasks. We used a Hot Wire Anemometer (HWA) to characterize mixing dynamics in the Swirling Flask (SF) and the Baffled Flask (BF), the latter is being considered b...

Molecular dynamic simulation of dicationic ionic liquids: effects of anions and alkyl chain length on liquid structure and diffusion.

PubMed

Yeganegi, Saeid; Soltanabadi, Azim; Farmanzadeh, Davood

2012-09-20

Structures and dynamics of nine geminal dicationic ionic liquids (DILs) Cn(mim)2X2, where n = 3, 6, and 9 and X = PF6(-), BF4(-), and Br(-), were studied by molecular dynamic simulations (J. Phys. Chem.B2004, 108, 2038-2047). A force field with a minor modification for C3(mim)2 × 2 was adopted for the simulations. Densities, detailed microscopic structures, mean-square displacements (MSD), and self-diffusivities for various ion pairs from MD simulations have been presented. The calculated densities for C9(mim)2X2 (X = Br(-) and BF4(-)) agreed well with the experimental values. The calculated RDFs show that anions are well organized around the imidazolium rings. The calculated RDFs indicate that, unlike the mono cationic ILs, the anions and cations in DILs distribute homogeneously. Enthalpies of vaporization were calculated and correlated with the structural features of DILs. The local structure of C9(mim)2X2 (X = Br, PF6) was examined by the spatial distribution function (SDF). The calculated SDFs show that similar trends were found by other groups for mono cationic ionic liquids (ILs). The highest probability densities are located around the imidazolium ring hydrogens. The calculated diffusion coefficients show that the ion diffusivities are 1 order of magnitude smaller than that of the mono cationic ionic liquids. The effects of alkyl chain length and anion type on the diffusion coefficient were also studied. The dynamics of the imidazolium rings and the alkyl chain in different time scales have also discussed. The calculated transference numbers show that the anions have the major role in carrying the electric current in a DIL.

Outstanding features of alginate-based gel electrolyte with ionic liquid for electric double layer capacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soeda, Kazunari; Yamagata, Masaki; Ishikawa, Masashi

2015-04-01

An alginate-based gel electrolyte with an ionic liquid (Alg/IL) is investigated for electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) by using physicochemical and electrochemical measurements. The Alg/EMImBF4 (EMImBF4 = 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate) gel electrolyte is thermally stable up to 280 °C, where EMImBF4 decomposes. Furthermore, the EDLC with the gel electrolyte can be operated even at high temperature. The cell containing Alg/EMImBF4 is also electrochemically stable even under high voltage (∼3.5 V) operation. Thus, the alginate is a suitable host polymer for the gel electrolyte for EDLCs. According to the result of charge-discharge characteristics, the voltage drop in the charge-discharge curve for the cell with Alg/EMImBF4 gel electrolyte is considerably smaller than that with liquid-phase EMImBF4 electrolyte. To clarify the effect of Alg in contact with the activated carbon electrode, we also prepared an Alg-containing ACFC electrode (Alg + ACFC), and evaluated its EDLC characteristics in liquid EMImBF4. The results prove that the presence of Alg close to the active materials significantly reduces the internal resistance of the EDLC cell, which may be attributed to the high affinity of Alg to activated carbon.

Simultaneous biodegradation of bifenthrin and chlorpyrifos by Pseudomonas sp. CB2.

PubMed

Zhang, Qun; Li, Shuhuai; Ma, Chen; Wu, Nancun; Li, Chunli; Yang, Xinfeng

2018-05-04

The degradation of bifenthrin (BF) and chlorpyrifos (CP), either together or individually, by a bacterial strain (CB2) isolated from activated sludge was investigated. Strain CB2 was identified as belonging to genus Pseudomonas based on the morphological, physiological, and biochemical characteristics and a homological analysis of the 16S rDNA sequence. Strain CB2 has the potential to degrade BF and CP, either individually or in a mixture. The optimum conditions for mixture degradation were as follows: OD 600nm = 0.5; incubation temperature = 30°C; pH = 7.0; BF-CP mixture (10 mg L -1 of each). Under these optimal conditions, the degradation rate constants (and half-lives) were 0.4308 d -1 (1.61 d) and 0.3377 d -1 (2.05 d) for individual BF and CP samples, respectively, and 0.3463 d -1 (2.00 d) and 0.2931 d -1 (2.36 d) for the BF-CP mixture. Major metabolites of BF and CP were 2-methyl-3-biphenylyl methanol and 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol, respectively. No metabolite bioaccumulation was observed. The ability of CB2 to efficiently degrade BF and CP, particularly in a mixture, may be useful in bioremediation efforts.

Thermodynamic and transport properties of spiro-(1,1')-bipyrrolidinium tetrafluoroborate and acetonitrile mixtures: A molecular dynamics study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qing-Yin, Zhang; Peng, Xie; Xin, Wang; Xue-Wen, Yu; Zhi-Qiang, Shi; Shi-Huai, Zhao

2016-06-01

Organic salts such as spiro-(1,1')-bipyrrolidinium tetrafluoroborate ([SBP][BF4]) dissolved in liquid acetonitrile (ACN) are a new kind of organic salt solution, which is expected to be used as an electrolyte in electrical double layer capacitors (EDLCs). To explore the physicochemical properties of the solution, an all-atom force field is established on the basis of AMBER parameter values and quantum mechanical calculations. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are carried out to explore the liquid structure and physicochemical properties of [SBP][BF4] electrolyte at room temperature. The computed thermodynamic and transport properties match the available experimental results very well. The microscopic structures of [SBP][BF4] salt solution are also discussed in detail. The method used in this work provides an efficient way of predicting the properties of organic salt solvent as an electrolyte in EDLCs. Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 21476172 and 51172160), the National High Technology Research and Development Program of China (Grant No. 2013AA050905), and the Natural Science Foundation of Tianjin, China (Grant Nos. 12JCZDJC28400, 14RCHZGX00859, 14JCTPJC00484, and 14JCQNJC07200).

Increased Risk of Severe Infant Anemia Following Exposure to Maternal HAART, Botswana

PubMed Central

Dryden-Peterson, Scott; Shapiro, Roger L.; Hughes, Michael D.; Powis, Kathleen; Ogwu, Anthony; Moffat, Claire; Moyo, Sikhulile; Makhema, Joseph; Essex, Max; Lockman, Shahin

2011-01-01

Background Maternal highly-active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) reduces mother-to-child HIV transmission (MTCT), but may increase the risk for infant anemia. Methods The incidence of first severe anemia (Grade 3 or 4, Division of AIDS 2004 Toxicity Table) was assessed among HIV-uninfected infants in the Mashi and Mma Bana MTCT prevention trials in Botswana. Severe anemia rates were compared between 3 groups: infants exposed to maternal HAART in utero and during breastfeeding and 1 month of postnatal zidovudine (HAART-BF); infants exposed to maternal zidovudine (ZDV) in utero, 6 months of postnatal ZDV, and breastfeeding (ZDV-BF); and infants exposed to maternal ZDV in utero, 1 month of postnatal ZDV, and formula-feeding (ZDV-FF). Results A total of 1719 infants were analyzed— 691 HAART-BF, 503 ZDV-BF, and 525 ZDV-FF. Severe anemia was detected in 118 infants (7.4%). By 6 months, 12.5% of HAART-BF infants experienced severe anemia, compared with 5.3% of ZDV-BF (P<0.001) and 2.5% of ZDV-FF infants (P<0.001). In adjusted analysis, HAART-BF infants were at greater risk of severe anemia than ZDV-BF or ZDV-FF infants (adjusted odds ratios 2.6 and 5.8, respectively; P < 0.001). Most anemias were asymptomatic and improved with iron/multivitamin supplementation and cessation of ZDV exposure. However, 11 infants (0.6% of all infants) required transfusion for symptomatic anemia. Microcytosis and hypochromia were common among infants with severe anemia. Conclusions Exposure to maternal HAART starting in utero was associated with severe infant anemia. Confirmation of this finding and possible strategies to mitigate hematologic toxicity warrant further study. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers: NCT00197587 and NCT00270296. PMID:21266910

16 Weeks of Progressive Barefoot Running Training Changes Impact Force and Muscle Activation in Habitual Shod Runners

PubMed Central

Mezêncio, Bruno; Amadio, Alberto Carlos; Serrão, Julio Cerca

2016-01-01

Short-term effects of barefoot and simulated barefoot running have been widely discussed in recent years. Consequences of adopting barefoot running for a long period, including as a training approach, still remain unknown. The present study evaluated the influence of 16 weeks of progressive barefoot running training on impact force and muscle activation in habitual shod runners. Six habitual shod runners (3 men and 3 women, 29.5 ± 7.3 years) were tested barefoot (BF) and shod (SH), before and after 16 weeks of progressive barefoot running training. Tests consisted of running on instrumented treadmill at 9 km/h, for 10 minutes in each experimental condition. Nine data acquisitions (10 s) of vertical ground reaction force (VGRF) and electromyographic (EMG) signal were conducted in each experimental condition for each test. BF training was effective to alter VGRF and EMG parameters of running in habitual shod runners, regardless of footwear condition (SH or BF). The magnitude of first peak of VGRF (Fy1) and the impulse of the first 50 ms decreased after training for BF and SH (p<0.01). The activation reduced from PRE to POST training for four muscles in BF running (p<0.001), whereas only muscle gastrocnemius lateralis decreased significantly its activation (p<0.01) in SH running. A 16-week progressive barefoot running training seems to be an effective training strategy to reduce impact force, improve shock attenuation and to decrease muscle activation intensity, not only in BF running, but also in SH running, although BF condition seems to be more influenced by BF training. PMID:27907069

Assessing toxic effects of [Omim]Cl and [Omim]BF4 in zebrafish adults using a biomarker approach.

PubMed

Liu, Tong; Guo, Yingying; Wang, Jinhua; Wang, Jun; Zhu, Lusheng; Zhang, Jun; Zhang, Cheng

2016-04-01

In the present study, the toxic effects of 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([Omim]Cl) and 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([Omim]BF4) on the zebrafish livers were studied at 0, 5, 10, 20, and 40 mg L(-1) on the 7th and 14th days. In addition, the concentrations of [Omim]Cl and [Omim]BF4 in the test water, the acute toxicity of the two ionic liquids (ILs), and the influence of anions on the toxicity of the ILs were evaluated. The acute toxicity test results showed 50 % lethal concentration (LC50) values of 152.3 ± 12.1 mg L(-1) for [Omim]Cl and 144.0 ± 11.4 mg L(-1) for [Omim]BF4. At the lowest concentration investigated (5 mg L(-1)), [Omim]Cl and [Omim]BF4 did not significantly affect zebrafish during the exposure period. However, the toxic effects of these substances were enhanced as dosing concentrations and exposure times were increased. Levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were significantly enhanced on the 7th day after 20 mg L(-1) and on the 14th day after 10 mg L(-1) of either substance was applied, resulting in oxidative damage, such as lipid peroxidation and DNA damage. The experimental results also indicated little effect of the anions on the toxicity of ILs and consistent toxic effects of [Omim]Cl and [Omim]BF4. Graphical Abstract The graphical abstract for the present study after exposure to [Omim]Cl and [Omim]BF4. The letter R represents the anions Cl(-) and BF4 (.)

Prevalence of breast-feeding and exclusive breast-feeding at 48 h after birth and up to the sixth month in Cyprus: the BrEaST start in life project.

PubMed

Economou, Mary; Kolokotroni, Ourania; Paphiti-Demetriou, Irene; Kouta, Christiana; Lambrinou, Ekaterini; Hadjigeorgiou, Eleni; Hadjiona, Vasiliki; Tryfonos, Froso; Philippou, Elena; Middleton, Nicos

2018-04-01

To assess the prevalence and sociodemographic determinants of breast-feeding (BF) and exclusive breast-feeding (EBF) in Cyprus up to the sixth month. Cross-sectional and longitudinal descriptive study. BF and EBF were estimated based on mothers' self-reported BF status in line with Step 7 of the WHO/UNICEF Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative questionnaire and based on 24 h recall. Maternity wards in all public hospitals and twenty-nine (of thirty-five) private maternity clinics nationwide. Consecutive sample of 586 mothers recruited within 48 h from birth, followed up by telephone interview at the first, fourth and sixth month. Although 84·3 % of mothers initiated BF before discharge, prevalence of BF at the sixth month was 32·4 %, with the highest reduction observed between the first and fourth months. Prevalence of EBF at 48 h was 18·8 % and fell gradually to 5·0 % at the sixth month. Mothers with higher educational attainment or higher family income were more likely to breast-feed until the sixth month. In terms of EBF, an association was observed only with education, which persisted until the sixth month. Other than social gradient, mode of delivery was the strongest determinant of BF initiation, exclusivity and continuation. Mothers who gave birth vaginally were three to four times more likely to initiate BF (OR=3·1; 95 % CI 1·7, 5·4) and EBF (OR=4·3; 95 % CI 2·7, 6·8). The low prevalence of BF and EBF in Cyprus, together with the fact that caesarean section rates are currently among the highest in Europe, suggest the need for further research to understand this multidimensional phenomenon and for interdisciplinary policy action to protect, promote and support BF.

Interaction of copper with dinitrogen tetroxide in 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium-based ionic liquids.

PubMed

Morozov, I V; Deeva, E B; Glazunova, T Yu; Troyanov, S I; Guseinov, F I; Kustov, L M

2017-03-27

Ionic liquids that are stable toward oxidation and nitration and are based on the 1-n-butyl-3-methylimidazolium cation (BMIm + ) can be used as solvents and reaction media for copper dissolution in liquid dinitrogen tetraoxide N 2 O 4 . The ionic liquid not only favors the dissociation of N 2 O 4 into NO + and NO 3 - , but also takes part in the formation of different crystalline products. Thus, NO[BF 4 ], NO[Cu(NO 3 ) 3 ] and (BMIm) 2 [Cu 2 (CF 3 COO) 6 ] were prepared using (BMIm)A, A - = [BF 4 ] - , (CF 3 SO 2 ) 2 N - , CF 3 COO - , respectively. The formation of a certain product is determined by the nature of the anion A - and the relative solubility of the reaction products in the ionic liquid. Crystals of NO[BF 4 ] were also prepared directly from a mixture of N 2 O 4 and BMImBF 4 . According to XRD single-crystal structure analysis, the structure of NO[BF 4 ] consists of tetrahedral [BF 4 ] - anions and nitrosonium NO + cations; the formation of these ions prove the heterolytic dissociation of N 2 O 4 dissolved in the ionic liquid. The crystal structure of the earlier unknown binuclear copper trifluoroacetate (BMIm) 2 [Cu 2 (CF 3 COO) 6 ] were determined by X-ray diffraction. The peculiarity of this dimer compared to the majority of known dimeric copper(ii) carboxylates is the unusually long CuCu distance (3.15 Å), with Cu(ii) ions demonstrating an atypical coordination of a distorted trigonal bipyramid formed by five O atoms of five trifluoroacetate groups.

Can dual-energy CT replace perfusion CT for the functional evaluation of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma?

PubMed

Mulé, Sébastien; Pigneur, Frédéric; Quelever, Ronan; Tenenhaus, Arthur; Baranes, Laurence; Richard, Philippe; Tacher, Vania; Herin, Edouard; Pasquier, Hugo; Ronot, Maxime; Rahmouni, Alain; Vilgrain, Valérie; Luciani, Alain

2018-05-01

To determine the degree of relationship between iodine concentrations derived from dual-energy CT (DECT) and perfusion CT parameters in patients with advanced HCC under treatment. In this single-centre IRB approved study, 16 patients with advanced HCC treated with sorafenib or radioembolization who underwent concurrent dynamic perfusion CT and multiphase DECT using a single source, fast kV switching DECT scanner were included. Written informed consent was obtained for all patients. HCC late-arterial and portal iodine concentrations, blood flow (BF)-related and blood volume (BV)-related perfusion parameters maps were calculated. Mixed-effects models of the relationship between iodine concentrations and perfusion parameters were computed. An adjusted p value (Bonferroni method) < 0.05 was considered significant. Mean HCC late-arterial and portal iodine concentrations were 22.7±12.7 mg/mL and 18.7±8.3 mg/mL, respectively. Late-arterial iodine concentration was significantly related to BV (mixed-effects model F statistic (F)=28.52, p<0.0001), arterial BF (aBF, F=17.62, p<0.0001), hepatic perfusion index (F=28.24, p<0.0001), positive enhancement integral (PEI, F=66.75, p<0.0001) and mean slope of increase (F=32.96, p<0.0001), while portal-venous iodine concentration was mainly related to BV (F=29.68, p<0.0001) and PEI (F=66.75, p<0.0001). In advanced HCC lesions, DECT-derived late-arterial iodine concentration is strongly related to both aBF and BV, while portal iodine concentration mainly reflects BV, offering DECT the ability to evaluate both morphological and perfusion changes. • Late-arterial iodine concentration is highly related to arterial BF and BV. • Portal iodine concentration mainly reflects tumour blood volume. • Dual-energy CT offers significantly decreased radiation dose compared with perfusion CT.

The influence of Bauhinia forficata Link subsp. pruinosa tea on lipid peroxidation and non-protein SH groups in human erythrocytes exposed to high glucose concentrations.

PubMed

Salgueiro, Andréia C F; Leal, Carina Q; Bianchini, Matheus C; Prado, Ianeli O; Mendez, Andreas S L; Puntel, Robson L; Folmer, Vanderlei; Soares, Félix A; Avila, Daiana S; Puntel, Gustavo O

2013-06-21

Bauhinia forficata (BF) has been traditionally used as tea in folk medicine of Brazil for treatment of Diabetes mellitus (DM). To evaluate the effects of BF leaf tea on markers of oxidative damage and antioxidant levels in an experimental model of hyperglycemia in human erythrocytes in vitro. Human erythrocytes were incubated with high glucose concentrations or glucose and BF tea for 24h and 48h. After incubation lipid peroxidation and non-protein SH levels were analyzed. Moreover, quantification of polyphenols and flavonoids, iron chelating property, scavenging of DPPH, and prevention of lipid peroxidation in isolated lipids were also assessed. A significant amount of polyphenols and flavonoids was observed. The main components found by LC-MS analysis were quercetin-3-O-(2-rhamnosyl) rutinoside, kaempferol-3-O-(2-rhamnosyl) rutinoside, quercetin-3-O-rutinoside and kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside. BF tea presents important antioxidant and chelating properties. Moreover, BF tea was effective to increase non-protein SH levels and reduce lipid peroxidation induced by high glucose concentrations in human erythrocytes. The antioxidant effects of BF tea could be related to the presence of different phenolic and flavonoids components. We believe that these components can be responsible to protect human erythrocytes exposed to high glucose concentrations against oxidative damage. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Breastfeeding as the sole source of milk for 6 months and adolescent bone mineral density.

PubMed

Blanco, E; Burrows, R; Reyes, M; Lozoff, B; Gahagan, S; Albala, C

2017-10-01

Little is known regarding the relationship between early life factors and bone mineral density (BMD). We found a positive association between breastfeeding for at least 6 months, without formula supplementation, and whole body adolescent BMD z-score. The aim of the study is to assess the role of breastfeeding BF on adolescent bone mineral density (BMD) in a cohort prospectively followed since infancy. We studied 679 participants from an infancy iron deficiency anemia preventive trial in Santiago, Chile, followed to adolescence. Breast and bottle feeding were ascertained weekly from 4 to 12 months. At 16 years, whole body BMD was assessed by DEXA. Using linear regression, we evaluated associations between BF duration and BF as the sole source of milk and adolescent BMD z-score, adjusting for possible infancy, adolescent, and background confounders. Mean birth weight and length were 3.5 (0.3) kg and 50.7 (1.6) cm. For at least 6 months, BF was the sole source of milk for 26.3% and with supplementation for 36.7%. For 37%, BF was provided for less than 6 months. Mean 16-year BMD z-score was 0.25 (1.0). Covariates included male sex, birth length, and gestational age. BF as the sole source of milk ≥6 months, compared to BF < 6 months, was associated with higher adolescent BMD z-score adjusting for covariates (β = 0.29, p < 0.05). Mixed BF was not significantly related to adolescent BMD z-score (β = 0.06, p = 0.47). For every 30 days of BF as the sole source of milk, adolescent BMD z-score increased by 0.03 (p = 0.01). BF without formula supplementation for at least 6 months was associated with higher adolescent BMD z-score and a suggestive trend in the same direction for BMD suggests that exclusivity and duration of BF may play a role in adolescent bone health.

Comparison of air-displacement plethysmography with hydrostatic weighing and bioelectrical impedance analysis for the assessment of body composition in healthy adults.

PubMed

Biaggi, R R; Vollman, M W; Nies, M A; Brener, C E; Flakoll, P J; Levenhagen, D K; Sun, M; Karabulut, Z; Chen, K Y

1999-05-01

Over the past decade, considerable attention has been paid to accurately measuring body composition in diverse populations. Recently, the use of air-displacement plethysmography (AP) was proposed as an accurate, comfortable, and accessible method of body-composition analysis. The purpose of this study was to compare measurements of percentage body fat (%BF) by AP and 2 other established techniques, hydrostatic weighing (HW) and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), in adults. The sample consisted of healthy men (n = 23) and women (n = 24). %BF was measured by AP, HW, and BIA. In the total group, %BF(AP) (25.0+/-8.9%) was not significantly different from %BF(HW) (25.1+/-7.7%) or %BF(BIA) (23.9+/-7.7%), and %BF(AP) was significantly correlated with %BF(HW) (r = 0.944, P < 0.001) and with %BF(BIA) (r = 0.859, P < 0.01). Compared with HW, AP underestimated %BF in men (by -1.24+/-3.12%) but overestimated %BF in women (by 1.02+/-2.48%), indicating a significant sex effect (P < 0.05). The differences in estimation between AP and BIA and between BIA and HW were not significantly different between the sexes. AP is an accurate method for assessing body composition in healthy adults. Future studies should assess further the cause of the individual variations with this new method.

Elimination of micropollutants and transformation products from a wastewater treatment plant effluent through pilot scale ozonation followed by various activated carbon and biological filters.

PubMed

Knopp, Gregor; Prasse, Carsten; Ternes, Thomas A; Cornel, Peter

2016-09-01

Conventional wastewater treatment plants are ineffective in removing a broad range of micropollutants, resulting in the release of these compounds into the aquatic environment, including natural drinking water resources. Ozonation is a suitable treatment process for micropollutant removal, although, currently, little is known about the formation, behavior, and removal of transformation products (TP) formed during ozonation. We investigated the elimination of 30 selected micropollutants (pharmaceuticals, X-ray contrast media, industrial chemicals, and TP) by biological treatment coupled with ozonation and, subsequently, in parallel with two biological filters (BF) or granular activated carbon (GAC) filters. The selected micropollutants were removed to very different extents during the conventional biological wastewater treatment process. Ozonation (specific ozone consumption: 0.87 ± 0.29 gO3 gDOC(-1), hydraulic retention time: 17 ± 3 min) eliminated a large number of the investigated micropollutants. Although 11 micropollutants could still be detected after ozonation, most of these were eliminated in subsequent GAC filtration at bed volumes (BV) of approximately 25,000 m(3) m(-3). In contrast, no additional removal of micropollutants was achieved in the BF. Ozonation of the analgesic tramadol led to the formation of tramadol-N-oxide that is effectively eliminated by GAC filters, but not by BF. For the antiviral drug acyclovir, the formation of carboxy-acyclovir was observed during activated sludge treatment, with an average concentration of 3.4 ± 1.4 μg L(-1) detected in effluent samples. Subsequent ozonation resulted in the complete elimination of carboxy-acyclovir and led to the formation of N-(4-carbamoyl-2-imino-5-oxo imidazolidin)-formamido-N-methoxyacetetic acid (COFA; average concentration: 2.6 ± 1.0 μg L(-1)). Neither the BF nor the GAC filters were able to remove COFA. These results highlight the importance of considering TP in the evaluation of advanced wastewater treatment processes. The results further indicate that post-treatment of ozonated wastewater with GAC filtration seems to be more suitable than BF, due to the sorption of formed TP to the activated carbon. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Electrodeposition of Silver from Supercritical Carbon Dioxide/Acetonitrile

PubMed Central

Bartlett, Philip N; Perdjon-Abel, Magdalena; Cook, David; Reid, Gillian; Levason, William; Cheng, Fei; Zhang, Wenjian; George, Michael W; Ke, Jie; Beanland, Richard; Sloan, Jeremy

2014-01-01

Cyclic voltammetry of silver coordination complexes in acetonitrile and in a single-phase supercritical carbon dioxide/acetonitrile (scCO2/CH3CN) system is reported. Five silver precursors are investigated: (1,5-cyclooctadiene)(hexafluoroacetylacetonato) silver(I) [Ag(hfac)(COD)], (hexafluoroacetylacetonato)(triphenylphosphine) silver(I) [Ag(hfac)(PPh3)], (perfluorooctanoato)bis(triphenylphosphine) silver(I) [Ag(CF3(CF2)6CO2)(PPh3)2], tetrakis(triphenylphosphine) silver(I) tetrafluoroborate [Ag(PPh3)4][BF4] and tetrakis(acetonitrile) silver(I) tetrafluoroborate [Ag(CH3CN)4][BF4]. Of these, [Ag(CH3CN)4][BF4] is found to be the most suitable for electrodeposition of silver from scCO2/CH3CN.

Comparison of two bioelectrical impedance analysis devices with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry and magnetic resonance imaging in the estimation of body composition.

PubMed

Wang, Ji-Guang; Zhang, Yi; Chen, Han-E; Li, Yan; Cheng, Xiao-Guang; Xu, Li; Guo, Zhe; Zhao, Xing-Shan; Sato, Tetsuya; Cao, Qi-Yun; Chen, Ke-Min; Li, Biao

2013-01-01

We compared a 4-limb bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) system, HBF 359 (Omron), and a 2-limb foot-to-foot device, BC 532 (Tanita), with the standard dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) methods for the measurement of body fat percentage (BF), skeletal muscle mass percentage (SMM, or fat-free mass [FFM] for BC 532), and visceral fat level (VF). Body composition was measured in 200 healthy volunteers (100 men and 100 women, mean age 48 years) by HBF 359 and BC 532 and by DXA and MRI. The agreement was assessed by correlation analysis and paired t-test. The correlation coefficients between BIA and DXA or MRI ranged from 0.71 to 0.89 for BF, SMM, and VF by HBF 359 and from 0.77 to 0.90 for BF, FFM, and VF by BC 532 in all subjects and in men and women separately (p < 0.001 for all). Compared with DXA, HBF 359 significantly (p < 0.001) underestimated BF by -5.8% in men and -9.6% in women. Compared with MRI, the corresponding underestimatons (negative) or overestimations (positive) by HBF 359 in men and women were, respectively, +1.9% (p = 0.02) and +1.7% (p = 0.10) for SMM, and +13.3% (p < 0.001) and -8.5% (p = 0.006), for VF. The corresponding values by BC 532 in men and women were -10.7 and -6.2% for BF, -1.4 and -2.5% for FFM, and +20.4 and -18.0% for VF. The BIA devices are accurate in the estimation of body composition, especially skeletal muscle mass or FFM.

Spectroscopic, structural and computational analysis of [Re(CO)3(dippM)Br](n+) (dippM = 1,1'-bis(diiso-propylphosphino)metallocene, M = Fe, n = 0 or 1; M = Co, n = 1).

PubMed

Furneaux, Aliza G; Piro, Nicholas A; Hernández Sánchez, Raúl; Gramigna, Kathryn M; Fey, Natalie; Robinson, Michael J; Kassel, W Scott; Nataro, Chip

2016-03-21

While the redox active backbone of bis(phosphino)ferrocene ligands is often cited as an important feature of these ligands in catalytic studies, the structural parameters of oxidized bis(phosphino)ferrocene ligands have not been thoroughly studied. The reaction of [Re(CO)3(dippf)Br] (dippf = 1,1'-bis(diiso-propylphosphino)ferrocene) and [NO][BF4] in methylene chloride yields the oxidized compound, [Re(CO)3(dippf)Br][BF4]. The oxidized species, [Re(CO)3(dippf)Br][BF4], and the neutral species, [Re(CO)3(dippf)Br], are compared using X-ray crystallography, cyclic voltammetry, visible spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy and zero-field (57)Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy. In addition, the magnetic moment of the paramagnetic [Re(CO)3(dippf)Br][BF4] was measured in the solid state using SQUID magnetometry and in solution by the Evans method. The electron transfer reaction of [Re(CO)3(dippf)Br][BF4] with acetylferrocene was also examined. For additional comparison, the cationic compound, [Re(CO)3(dippc)Br][PF6] (dippc = 1,1'-bis(diiso-propylphosphino)cobaltocenium), was prepared and characterized by cyclic voltammetry, X-ray crystallography, and NMR, IR and visible spectroscopies. Finally, DFT was employed to examine the oxidized dippf ligand and the oxidized rhenium complex, [Re(CO)3(dippf)Br](+).

Ionic Liquids Can Selectively Change the Conformational Free-Energy Landscape of Sugar Rings.

PubMed

Jarin, Zack; Pfaendtner, Jim

2014-02-11

We investigated the conformational free energy landscape of glucose solvated in water and in the ionic liquids (ILs) 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([Bmim][Cl]) and 1-butyl-3-methylimidazoulim boron tetrafluoride ([Bmim][BF4]). To quantify equilibrium thermodynamic solvent effects, molecular dynamics simulations in conjunction with enhanced sampling based on the metadynamics framework were used. The results show that the solvent choice induces significant differences in the equilibrium ring structures, which may help further resolve the molecular mechanism governing IL-mediated cellulose dissolution.

Cooked yields, color, tenderness, and sensory traits of beef roasts cooked in an oven with steam generation versus a commercial convection oven to different endpoint temperatures.

PubMed

Bowers, L J; Dikeman, M E; Murray, L; Stroda, S L

2012-10-01

A CVap steam generation oven was compared with a Blodgett convection oven to examine effects on yields, cooked color, tenderness, and sensory traits of beef Longissimus lumborum (LL), Deep pectoralis (DP), and Biceps femoris (BF) muscles cooked to 1 of 3 temperatures (65.6, 71.1, or 76.7°C). Four roasts were cooked in the CVap for a constant time, and 2 roasts were cooked in the Blodgett until they reached target temperatures (3 replications). Cooking yields were higher (P<0.05) for BF and LL roasts in the CVap. Slice shear force (SSF) for BF roasts was lowest (P<0.05) in the CVap but lowest (P<0.05) for DP roasts in the Blodgett. No oven effect (P>0.05) was found for LL roasts. Sensory tenderness for BF roasts in the CVap was higher (P<0.05) than those in the Blodgett. Juiciness was higher (P<0.05) for LL roasts in the Blodgett. The CVap oven offers some tenderization (BF) and cooking yield advantages (BF and DP) over forced-air convection cooking. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Non-Synonymous Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms and Physical Activity Interactions on Adiposity Parameters in Malaysian Adolescents.

PubMed

Zaharan, Nur Lisa; Muhamad, Nor Hanisah; Jalaludin, Muhammad Yazid; Su, Tin Tin; Mohamed, Zahurin; Mohamed, M N A; A Majid, Hazreen

2018-01-01

Several non-synonymous single-nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) have been shown to be associated with obesity. Little is known about their associations and interactions with physical activity (PA) in relation to adiposity parameters among adolescents in Malaysia. We examined whether (a) PA and (b) selected nsSNPs are associated with adiposity parameters and whether PA interacts with these nsSNPs on these outcomes in adolescents from the Malaysian Health and Adolescents Longitudinal Research Team study ( n  = 1,151). Body mass indices, waist-hip ratio, and percentage body fat (% BF) were obtained. PA was assessed using Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C). Five nsSNPs were included: beta-3 adrenergic receptor (ADRB3) rs4994, FABP2 rs1799883, GHRL rs696217, MC3R rs3827103, and vitamin D receptor rs2228570, individually and as combined genetic risk score (GRS). Associations and interactions between nsSNPs and PAQ-C scores were examined using generalized linear model. PAQ-C scores were associated with % BF (β = -0.44 [95% confidence interval -0.72, -0.16], p  = 0.002). The CC genotype of ADRB3 rs4994 (β = -0.16 [-0.28, -0.05], corrected p  = 0.01) and AA genotype of MC3R rs3827103 (β = -0.06 [-0.12, -0.00], p  = 0.02) were significantly associated with % BF compared to TT and GG genotypes, respectively. Significant interactions with PA were found between ADRB3 rs4994 (β = -0.05 [-0.10, -0.01], p  = 0.02) and combined GRS (β = -0.03 [-0.04, -0.01], p  = 0.01) for % BF. Higher PA score was associated with reduced % BF in Malaysian adolescents. Of the nsSNPs, ADRB3 rs4994 and MC3R rs3827103 were associated with % BF. Significant interactions with PA were found for ADRB3 rs4994 and combined GRS on % BF but not on measurements of weight or circumferences. Targeting body fat represent prospects for molecular studies and lifestyle intervention in this population.

All-atom calculation of protein free-energy profiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orioli, S.; Ianeselli, A.; Spagnolli, G.; Faccioli, P.

2017-10-01

The Bias Functional (BF) approach is a variational method which enables one to efficiently generate ensembles of reactive trajectories for complex biomolecular transitions, using ordinary computer clusters. For example, this scheme was applied to simulate in atomistic detail the folding of proteins consisting of several hundreds of amino acids and with experimental folding time of several minutes. A drawback of the BF approach is that it produces trajectories which do not satisfy microscopic reversibility. Consequently, this method cannot be used to directly compute equilibrium observables, such as free energy landscapes or equilibrium constants. In this work, we develop a statistical analysis which permits us to compute the potential of mean-force (PMF) along an arbitrary collective coordinate, by exploiting the information contained in the reactive trajectories calculated with the BF approach. We assess the accuracy and computational efficiency of this scheme by comparing its results with the PMF obtained for a small protein by means of plain molecular dynamics.

Hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTA-Br) and 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (bmim-BF4) in aqueous solution: An ephemeral binary system.

PubMed

Comelles, Francesc; Ribosa, Isabel; Gonzalez, Juan José; Garcia, M Teresa

2017-03-15

Mixtures of the cationic surfactant hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTA-Br) and the ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (bmim-BF 4 ) in aqueous solutions are expected to behave as typical binary cationic surfactant system taking into account the surface activity displayed by the ionic liquid, instead of considering the IL as a water cosolvent. Surface tension and conductivity measurements have been conducted as a function of the total concentration of the mixtures at different surfactant mole fraction (α CTA-Br ) to investigate the surface active properties. Turbidity immediately appearing when the compounds are mixed in water suggests the spontaneous formation of the low soluble compound hexadecyltrimethylammonium tetrafluoroborate (CTA-BF 4 ), together with the salt formed by the respective counterions bmim + and Br - in solution. For α CTA-Br ≠0.5, furthermore of the mentioned compounds, the spare bmim-BF 4 (for α CTA-Br <0.5) or CTA-Br (for α CTA-Br >0.5), are also present in the aqueous solution. Systems containing excess of bmim-BF 4 show a low critical aggregate concentration (cac), but an unexpected high surface tension at cac (γ cac ≈53-56mN/m), as pure CTA-BF 4 . For systems containing excess of CTA-Br, cac increases but γ cac decreases up to 36mN/m. Mixtures of pure CTA-BF 4 and bmim-BF 4 or CTA-Br behave as typical binary surfactant systems. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Nuclear Hyperfine Structure in the Donor – Acceptor Complexes (CH3)3N-BF3 and (CH)33N-B(CH3)3

EPA Science Inventory

The donor-acceptor complexes (CH3)3N-BF3 and (CH3)3N-B(CH3)3 have been reinvestigated at high resolution by rotational spectroscopy in a supersonic jet. Nuclear hyperfine structure resulting from both nitrogen and boron has been resolved and quadrupole coupling constants have bee...

Superbasic amidine monodentate ligands in fac-[Re(CO)3(5,5'-Me2bipy)(amidine)]BF4 complexes: dependence of amidine configuration on the remote nitrogen substituents.

PubMed

Perera, Theshini; Fronczek, Frank R; Marzilli, Patricia A; Marzilli, Luigi G

2010-08-02

Addition of various RNH(2) to fac-[Re(CO)(3)(5,5'-Me(2)bipy)(CH(3)CN)]BF(4) (1) converts the acetonitrile ligand to the amidine ligand (a superbase) in fac-[Re(CO)(3)(5,5'-Me(2)bipy)(HNC(CH(3))NHR)]BF(4) products. Each complex has four conceivable isomers (E, E', Z, and Z') because the amidine CN bonds have double-bond character, and the two remote NHR group substituents are different. The reaction of 1 in acetonitrile is complete in 6 to 96 h (25 degrees C) and forms fac-[Re(CO)(3)(5,5'-Me(2)bipy)(HNC(CH(3))NHR)]BF(4) E' and Z isomers. Only the E' isomer formed crystals (R = methyl, isopropyl, isobutyl, tert-butyl, and benzyl). Upon dissolution of such crystals in acetonitrile-d(3), NMR spectra with highly dominant E' signals gradually changed (approximately 15 min at room temperature) to spectra with signals for an equilibrium mixture of E' and Z isomers. Such slow E'-to-Z isomer interchange is also indicated by 2D ROESY NMR data used primarily to assign solution structure. Equilibrium ratios (E':Z) of approximately 65:35 for R = methyl, isopropyl, and isobutyl and 83:17 for R = tert-butyl demonstrate that increasing the remote NHR group steric bulk above a threshold size favors the E' isomer. Consistent with this trend, fac-[Re(CO)(3)(5,5'-Me(2)bipy)(HNC(CH(3))NH(2))]BF(4), with a remote NH(2) (low bulk) group, favors the Z isomer. In contrast, although the remote NH(benzyl) group in fac-[Re(CO)(3)(5,5'-Me(2)bipy)(HNC(CH(3))NH(CH(2)C(6)H(5))]BF(4) has only moderate bulk, the E' isomer has high abundance as a result of favorable 5,5'-Me(2)bipy/benzyl stacking, evidence for which is present in both solid and solution states. The fac-[Re(CO)(3)(5,5'-Me(2)bipy)(HNC(CH(3))NHR)]BF(4) E isomer can be detected in solvents of low polarity. However, the Z' isomer was not observed, undoubtedly because unfavorable remote-group clashes with the equatorial ligands destabilize this isomer. Challenge studies with a 5-fold excess of 4-dimethylaminopyridine in acetonitrile-d(3) establish that fac-[Re(CO)(3)(5,5'-Me(2)bipy)(HNC(CH(3))NHCH(CH(3))(2))]BF(4) is robust because the isopropylamidine ligand was not displaced, consistent with the superbase character of amidine ligands.

Comparison of body composition assessment methods in pediatric intestinal failure.

PubMed

Mehta, Nilesh M; Raphael, Bram; Guteirrez, Ivan M; Quinn, Nicolle; Mitchell, Paul D; Litman, Heather J; Jaksic, Tom; Duggan, Christopher P

2014-07-01

The aim of the study was to examine the agreement of multifrequency bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) and anthropometry with reference methods for body composition assessment in children with intestinal failure (IF). We conducted a prospective pilot study in children 14 years or younger with IF resulting from either short bowel syndrome or motility disorders. Bland-Altman analysis was used to examine the agreement between BIA and deuterium dilution in measuring total body water (TBW) and lean body mass (LBM), and between BIA and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) techniques in measuring LBM and fat mass (FM). FM and percent body fat (%BF) measurements by BIA and anthropometry were also compared in relation to those measured by deuterium dilution. Fifteen children with IF, median (interquartile range) age 7.2 (5.0, 10.0) years, and 10 (67%) boys, were studied. BIA and deuterium dilution were in good agreement with a mean bias (limits of agreement) of 0.9 (-3.2 to 5.0) for TBW (L) and 0.1 (-5.4 to 5.6) for LBM (kg) measurements. The mean bias (limits) for FM (kg) and %BF measurements were 0.4 (-3.8 to 4.6) kg and 1.7 (-16.9 to 20.3)%, respectively. The limits of agreement were within 1 standard deviation of the mean bias in 12 of 14 (86%) subjects for TBW and LBM, and in 11 of 14 (79%) for FM and %BF measurements. Mean bias (limits) for LBM (kg) and FM (kg) between BIA and DXA were 1.6 (-3.0 to 6.3) kg and -0.1 (-3.2 to 3.1) kg, respectively. Mean bias (limits) for FM (kg) and %BF between anthropometry and deuterium dilution were 0.2 (-4.2 to 4.6) and -0.2 (-19.5 to 19.1), respectively. The limits of agreement were within 1 standard deviation of the mean bias in 10 of 14 (71%) subjects. In children with IF, TBW and LBM measurements by multifrequency BIA method were in agreement with isotope dilution and DXA methods, with small mean bias and clinically acceptable limits of agreement. In comparison with deuterium dilution, BIA was comparable to anthropometry for FM and %BF assessments with small mean bias, but the limits of agreement were large. BIA is a reliable method for TBW and LBM assessments in population studies; however, its reliability in individual patients, especially for FM assessments, cannot be guaranteed.

Measures of body fat in South Asian adults.

PubMed

Kalra, S; Mercuri, M; Anand, S S

2013-05-27

South Asian people who originate from the Indian subcontinent have greater percent body fat (%BF) for the same body mass index (BMI) compared with white Caucasians. This has been implicated in their increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. There is limited information comparing different measures of body fat in this ethnic group. The objectives of this study were: (1) to investigate the correlation of %BF measured by a foot-to-foot bioelectrical impedance analysis (FF-BIA) against the BOD POD, a method of air-displacement plethysmography, and (2) to determine the correlations of simple anthropometric measures, (that is, BMI, body adiposity index (BAI), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR)) against the BOD POD measure of body fat. Eighty apparently healthy South Asian men and women were recruited from the community, and measurements of height, weight, WC, HC and body composition using Tanita FF-BIA and BOD POD were taken. The mean±s.d. age of participants was 27.78±10.49 years, 42.5% were women, and the mean BMI was 22.68±3.51 kg m(-2). The mean body fat (%BF) calculated by FF-BIA and BOD POD was 21.94±7.88% and 26.20±8.47%, respectively. The %BF calculated by FF-BIA was highly correlated with the BOD POD (Pearson's r=0.83, P<0.001), however, FF-BIA underestimated %BF by 4.3%. When anthropometric measures were compared with % BF by BOD POD, the BAI showed the strongest correlation (r=0.74) and the WHR showed the weakest (r=0.33). BAI generally underestimated %BF by 2.6% in comparison with %BF by BOD POD. The correlations of BOD POD with other measures of %BF were much stronger in subjects with a BMI >21 kg m(-2) than those with a BMI 21 kg m(-2). The FF-BIA and BAI estimates of %BF are highly correlated with that of BOD POD among people of South Asian origin, although both methods somewhat underestimate % BF. Furthermore, their correlations with % BF from BOD POD are significantly weakened among men and women with a BMI 21 kg m(-2).

Reliability and concurrent validity of Futrex and bioelectrical impedance.

PubMed

Vehrs, P; Morrow, J R; Butte, N

1998-11-01

Thirty Caucasian males (aged 19-32yr) participated in this study designed to investigate the reliability of multiple bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and near-infrared spectroscopy (Futrex, FTX) measurements and the validity of BIA and FTX estimations of hydrostatically (UW) determined percent body fat (%BF). Two BIA and two FTX instruments were used to make 6 measurements each of resistance (R) and optical density (OD) respectively over a 30 min period on two consecutive days. Repeated measures ANOVA indicated that FTX and BIA, using manufacturer's equations, significantly (p<0.01) under predicted UW by 2.4 and 3.8%BF respectively. Standard error of estimate (SEE) and total error (TE) terms provided by regression analysis for FTX (4.6 and 5.31%BF respectively) and BIA (5.65 and 6.95%BF, respectively) were high. Dependent t-tests revealed no significant differences in either FTX or BIA predictions of %BF using two machines. Intraclass reliabilities for BIA and FTX estimates of UW %BF across trials, days, and machines all exceeded 0.97. A significant random error term associated with FTX and a significant subject-by-day interaction associated with BIA was revealed using the generalizability model. Although FTX and BIA estimates of UW %BF were reliable, due to the significant underestimation of UW %BF and high SEE and TE, neither FTX nor BIA were considered valid estimates of hydrostatically determined %BF.

Removal of Escherichia coli and Faecal Coliforms from Surface Water and Groundwater by Household Water Treatment Devices/Systems: A Sustainable Solution for Improving Water Quality in Rural Communities of the Southern African Development Community Region

PubMed Central

Mwabi, Jocelyne K.; Mamba, Bhekie B.; Momba, Maggy N. B.

2012-01-01

There is significant evidence that household water treatment devices/systems (HWTS) are capable of dramatically improving microbially contaminated water quality. The purpose of this study was to examine five filters [(biosand filter-standard (BSF-S); biosand filter-zeolite (BSF-Z); bucket filter (BF); ceramic candle filter (CCF); and silver-impregnated porous pot (SIPP)] and evaluate their ability to improve the quality of drinking water at the household level. These HWTS were manufactured in the workshop of the Tshwane University of Technology and evaluated for efficiency to remove turbidity, faecal coliforms and Escherichia coli from multiple water source samples, using standard methods. The flow rates ranged from 0.05 L/h to 2.49 L/h for SIPP, 1 L/h to 4 L/h for CCF, 0.81 L/h to 6.84 L/h for BSF-S, 1.74 L/h to 19.2 L/h and 106.5 L/h to 160.5 L/h for BF The turbidity of the raw water samples ranged between 2.17 and 40.4 NTU. The average turbidity obtained after filtration ranged from 0.6 to 8 NTU (BSF-S), 1 to 4 NTU (BSF-Z), 2 to 11 NTU (BF), and from 0.6 to 7 NTU (CCF) and 0.7 to 1 NTU for SIPP. The BSF-S, BSF-Z and CCF removed 2 to 4 log10 (99% to 100%) of coliform bacteria, while the BF removed 1 to 3 log (90% to 99.9%) of these bacteria. The performance of the SIPP in removing turbidity and indicator bacteria (>5 log10, 100%) was significantly higher compared to that of the other HWTS (p < 0.05). The findings of this study indicate that the SIPP can be an effective and sustainable HWTS for the Southern African Development Community (SADC) rural communities, as it removed the total concentration of bacteria from test water, can be manufactured using locally available materials, and is easy to operate and to maintain. PMID:22470284

Low-energy BF2, BCl2, and BBr2 implants for ultrashallow P+-N junctions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nandan, S. R.; Agarwal, Vikas; Banerjee, Sanjay K.

1997-08-01

We have examined low energy BCl2 and BBr2 implants as a means of fabricating ultra-shallow P+-N junctions. Five keV and 9 keV BCl2 implants and 18 keV BBr2 implants have been compared to 5 keV BF2 implants to study the benefits of using these species. BCl2 and BBr2, being heavier species, have a lower projected range and produce more damage. The greater damage restricts channeling, resulting in shallower as-implanted profiles. The increased damage amorphizes the substrate at low implant doses which results in reduced transient enhanced diffusion (TED) during the post-implant anneal. Post-anneal SIMS profiles indicate a junction depth reduction of over 10 nm (at 5 X 1017 cm-3 background doping) for 5 keV BCl2 implants as compared to 5 keV BF2 implants. Annealed junctions as shallow as 10 nm have been obtained from the 18 keV BBr2 implants. The increased damage degrades the electrical properties of these junctions by enhancing the leakage current densities. BCl2 implanted junctions have leakage current densities of approximately 1 (mu) A/cm2 as compared to 10 nA/cm2 for the BF2 implants. BBr2 implants have a lower leakage density of approximately 50 nA/cm2. Low energy BBr2 implants offer an exciting alternative for fabricating low leakage, ultra-shallow P+-N junctions.

Bacteroides fragilis Lipopolysaccharide and Inflammatory Signaling in Alzheimer’s Disease

PubMed Central

Lukiw, Walter J.

2016-01-01

The human microbiome consists of ~3.8 × 1013 symbiotic microorganisms that form a highly complex and dynamic ecosystem: the gastrointestinal (GI) tract constitutes the largest repository of the human microbiome by far, and its impact on human neurological health and disease is becoming increasingly appreciated. Bacteroidetes, the largest phylum of Gram-negative bacteria in the GI tract microbiome, while generally beneficial to the host when confined to the GI tract, have potential to secrete a remarkably complex array of pro-inflammatory neurotoxins that include surface lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) and toxic proteolytic peptides. The deleterious effects of these bacterial exudates appear to become more important as GI tract and blood-brain barriers alter or increase their permeability with aging and disease. For example, presence of the unique LPSs of the abundant Bacteroidetes species Bacteroides fragilis (BF-LPS) in the serum represents a major contributing factor to systemic inflammation. BF-LPS is further recognized by TLR2, TLR4, and/or CD14 microglial cell receptors as are the pro-inflammatory 42 amino acid amyloid-beta (Aβ42) peptides that characterize Alzheimer’s disease (AD) brain. Here we provide the first evidence that BF-LPS exposure to human primary brain cells is an exceptionally potent inducer of the pro-inflammatory transcription factor NF-kB (p50/p65) complex, a known trigger in the expression of pathogenic pathways involved in inflammatory neurodegeneration. This ‘Perspectives communication’ will in addition highlight work from recent studies that advance novel and emerging concepts on the potential contribution of microbiome-generated factors, such as BF-LPS, in driving pro-inflammatory degenerative neuropathology in the AD brain. PMID:27725817

Graphene-based supercapacitors in the parallel-plate electrode configuration: ionic liquids versus organic electrolytes.

PubMed

Shim, Youngseon; Kim, Hyung J; Jung, Younjoon

2012-01-01

Supercapacitors with two single-sheet graphene electrodes in the parallel plate geometry are studied via molecular dynamics (MD) computer simulations. Pure 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (EMI+BF4-) and a 1.1 M solution of EMI+BF4- in acetonitrile are considered as prototypes of room-temperature ionic liquids (RTILs) and organic electrolytes. Electrolyte structure, charge density and associated electric potential are investigated by varying the charges and separation of the two electrodes. Multiple charge layers formed in the electrolytes in the vicinity of the electrodes are found to screen the electrode surface charge almost completely. As a result, the supercapacitors show nearly an ideal electric double layer behavior, i.e., the electric potential exhibits essentially a plateau behavior in the entire electrolyte region except for sharp changes in screening zones very close to the electrodes. Due to its small size and large charge separation, BF4- is considerably more efficient in shielding electrode charges than EMI+. In the case of the acetonitrile solution, acetonitrile also plays an important role by aligning its dipoles near the electrodes; however, the overall screening mainly arises from ions. Because of the disparity of shielding efficiency between cations and anions, the capacitance of the positively-charged anode is significantly larger than that of the negatively-charged cathode. Therefore, the total cell capacitance in the parallel plate configuration is primarily governed by the cathode. Ion conductivity obtained via the Green-Kubo (GK) method is found to be largely independent of the electrode surface charge. Interestingly, EMI+BF4- shows higher GK ion conductivity than the 1.1 M acetonitrile solution between two parallel plate electrodes.

The influence of transient change of total body water on relative body fats based on three bioelectrical impedance analyses methods. Comparison between before and after exercise with sweat loss, and after drinking.

PubMed

Demura, S; Yamaji, S; Goshi, F; Nagasawa, Y

2002-03-01

The purpose of this study was to clarify the influence of change of total body water caused by exercise and drinking, on relative body fat (%BF) based on three bioelectrical impedance analyses (BIA) methods, between hand and foot (H-F), between hand and hand (H-H), and between foot and foot (F-F). The subjects were 30 Japanese healthy young adults aged 18 to 23 years (15 males, 15 females). Measurements were made three times for each BIA method; before and after exercise with sweat, and after drinking, and also twice according to the under water weighing (UW) method, before exercise and after drinking. A pedaling exercise, with a bicycle ergometer, was used for 60 minutes as the exercise. The relationship of %BF between the UW method and each BIA method was mid-range or more (r=0.765-0.839). However, %BF based on the H-F and F-F BIA methods were higher than that based on the UW method. After drinking, %BF of all the BIA methods were higher than the UW method. %BF of the BIA methods after exercise indicated values lower than those before exercise. %BF of the H-F and H-H BIA methods after drinking were a little higher than those before exercise, indicating that those measurements reflect a slight change of body water. It was demonstrated that %BF of any BIA method reflect the change of body water caused by exercise, sweating, and drinking.

Stellar Occultations by Saturn's Rings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nicholson, Philip; Hedman, Matthew; French, Richard G.; Ansty, Todd

2018-04-01

On 15 September 2017 the Cassini mission came to an end when the spacecraft made a controlled entry into the planet's atmosphere. Over the preceding 13 years the Visual and Infrared Mapping Spectrometer (VIMS) instrument successfully observed over 170 stellar occultations by Saturn's rings, greatly increasing the available data set for high-resolution studies of the rings' structure and dynamics. Ring opening angles, B_\\ast ranged from 1.06° to 74.18°, while spacecraft ranges varied from 220,000 to 3,014,000 km. The effective radial resolution of the data is determined by a combination of Fresnel diffraction, stellar diameter and sampling rate, but is typically 150-300~m. We will briefly review the overall data set, before looking at examples of dynamical studies carried out with it over the past decade. These include modeling the geometry of self-gravity wakes in the A and B rings, evidence for viscous over-stability in the inner A ring, studies of eccentric, inclined and more complex orbital perturbations on the edges of isolated ringlets and narrow gaps, identification of density and bending waves in the C ring driven by both internal oscillations and gravity anomalies in Saturn, and the first reliable estimates of surface mass density in the central B ring.{\\bf References:} French \\etal\\ (2016a, 2016b, 2017), Hedman \\etal\\ (2007, 2010, 2014), Hedman \\& Nicholson (2013, 2014, 2016), Nicholson \\& Hedman (2010, 2016), Nicholson \\etal\\ (2014a, 2014b).

Body fat of stock-type horses predicted by rump fat thickness and deuterium oxide dilution and validated by near-infrared spectroscopy of dissected tissues.

PubMed

Ferjak, E N; Cavinder, C A; Burnett, D D; Argo, C Mc; Dinh, T T N

2017-10-01

Body condition score and percent body fat (BF; %) of horses are positively correlated with reproductive efficiency and are indicative of metabolic issues. However, BF in horses may be poorly predicted because current procedures are either subjective or dependent on one anatomical location. Therefore, the objectives of the current study were to compare 2 methods of predicting BF using rump fat thickness (RFT) and deuterium oxide (DO) dilution with actual tissue fat analysis by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in stock-type horses and to identify the relationship between BF and BCS. Twenty-four stock-type horses were selected to be humanely euthanized based on 3 primary criteria: geriatric, crippled, and/or unsafe. Approximately 20 h before slaughter, horses were weighed and BCS assessed to be 1 ( = 1; 433 kg), 2 ( = 1; 415 kg), 3 ( = 1; 376 kg), 4 ( = 7; 468 ± 13 kg), 5 ( = 10; 455 ± 11 kg), and 6 ( = 4; 493 ± 12 kg) and RFT was measured using ultrasonography. Blood samples were collected immediately before and 4 h after DO infusion (0.12 g/kg BW). Deuterium oxide concentration of plasma was determined by gas isotope ratio mass spectrometry. Horses were housed in a dry lot overnight before being individually sedated (1.1 mg xylazine/kg BW) and anesthetized using a jugular venipuncture (2.2 mg ketamine/kg BW), and potassium chloride (KCl) solution was administered to cease cardiac function before exsanguination. After euthanasia, horse carcasses were processed and dissected and tissues were collected for NIRS analysis. Body fat predicted by DO dilution was correlated with BF measured by NIRS analysis on various weight bases ( = 0.76 to 0.81, < 0.001), whereas no correlation was observed for BF predicted by RFT. A paired -test indicated that both DO dilution and RFT overestimated BF by 2.48 to 3.26% ( < 0.001) and 5.81 to 6.59% ( < 0.001), respectively, compared with NIRS analysis. Body condition scores affected BF measured by NIRS analysis ( ≤ 0.038) and predicted by DO dilution ( < 0.001) and RFT ( = 0.042). The current study provided evidence that DO dilution was a better prediction method for BF than RFT and that BCS may serve as a BF predictor in stock-type horses.

Budesonide + formoterol delivered via Spiromax® for the management of asthma and COPD: The potential impact on unscheduled healthcare costs of improving inhalation technique compared with Turbuhaler®.

PubMed

Lewis, A; Torvinen, S; Dekhuijzen, P N R; Chrystyn, H; Melani, A; Zöllner, Y; Kolbe, K; Watson, A T; Blackney, M; Plich, A

2017-08-01

Fixed-dose combinations of inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting β 2 agonists are commonly used for the treatment of asthma and COPD. However, the most frequently prescribed dry powder inhaler delivering this medicine - Symbicort ® (budesonide and formoterol, BF) Turbuhaler ® - is associated with poor inhalation technique, which can lead to poor disease control and high disease management costs. A recent study showed that patients make fewer inhaler errors when using the novel DuoResp ® (BF) Spiromax ® inhaler, compared with BF Turbuhaler ® . Therefore switching patients from BF Turbuhaler ® to BF Spiromax ® could improve inhalation technique, and potentially lead to better disease control and healthcare cost savings. A model was developed to estimate the budget impact of reducing poor inhalation technique by switching asthma and COPD patients from BF Turbuhaler ® to BF Spiromax ® over three years in Germany, Italy, Sweden and the UK. The model estimated changes to the number, and associated cost, of unscheduled healthcare events. The model considered two scenarios: in Scenario 1, all patients were immediately switched from BF Turbuhaler ® to BF Spiromax ® ; in Scenario 2, 4%, 8% and 12% of patients were switched in years 1, 2 and 3 of the model, respectively. In Scenario 1, per patient cost savings amounted to €60.10, €49.67, €94.14 and €38.20 in Germany, Italy, Sweden and the UK, respectively. Total cost savings in each country were €100.86 million, €19.42 million, €36.65 million and €15.44 million over three years, respectively, with an estimated 597,754, 151,480, 228,986 and 122,368 healthcare events avoided. In Scenario 2, cost savings totalled €8.07 million, €1.55 million, €2.93 million and €1.23 million over three years, respectively, with 47,850, 12,118, 18,319, and 9789 healthcare events avoided. Savings per patient were €4.81, €3.97, €7.53 and €3.06. We demonstrated that reductions in poor inhalation technique by switching patients from BF Turbuhaler ® to BF Spiromax ® are likely to improve patients' disease control and generate considerable cost savings through healthcare events avoided. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Solid-phase extraction of chlorophenols in seawater using a magnetic ionic liquid molecularly imprinted polymer with incorporated silicon dioxide as a sorbent.

PubMed

Ma, Wanwan; Row, Kyung Ho

2018-07-20

A type of magnetic ionic liquid based molecularly imprinted polymer coated on SiO 2 (Fe 3 O 4 @SiO 2 @IL-MIPs) was prepared with 1-vinyl-3-ethylimidazole ionic liquid as functional monomer, and 1,4-butane-3,3'-bis-1-ethylimidazole ionic liquid as cross linker, 4-Chlorophenol as template was successfully applied as a selective adsorbent for selective extraction of 5 chlorophenols in seawater samples by using the magnetic solid-phase extraction (MSPE) method. 11 types of Fe 3 O 4 @SiO 2 @IL-MIPs were synthesized and investigated for their different compositions of functional monomer (such as [C 2 min][Br], [C 2 min][BF 4 ], [C 2 min][PF 6 ], acrylamide, methacrylic acid and 4-vinyl pyridine) and cross-linker (such as [C 4 min 2 ][Br], [C 4 min 2 ][BF 4 ], [C 4 min 2 ][PF 6 ], divinylbenzene, and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate), respectively. The [C 2 min][BF 4 ] and [C 4 min 2 ][PF 6 ] based Fe 3 O 4 @SiO 2 @IL-MIP with the highest extraction efficiencies was applied to the optimization experiment of MSPE process (including extraction time, adsorbent mass and desorption solvents). Good linearity was obtained with correlation coefficients (R 2 ) over 0.9990 and the relative standard deviations for the intra-day and inter-day determination were less than 3.10% with the extraction recoveries ranged from 85.0% to 98.4%. The results indicated that the proposed Fe 3 O 4 @SiO 2 @IL-MIPs possesses great identification and adsorption properties, and could be used as a good sorbent for selective extraction of CPs in environment waters. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Breast feeding increases vasoconstriction induced by electrical field stimulation in rat mesenteric artery. Role of neuronal nitric oxide and ATP.

PubMed

Blanco-Rivero, Javier; Sastre, Esther; Caracuel, Laura; Granado, Miriam; Balfagón, Gloria

2013-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate in rat mesenteric artery whether breast feeding (BF) affects the vasomotor response induced by electrical field stimulation (EFS), participation by different innervations in the EFS-induced response and the mechanism/s underlying these possible modifications. Experiments were performed in female Sprague-Dawley rats (3 months old), divided into three groups: Control (in oestrous phase), mothers after 21 days of BF, and mothers that had recovered their oestral cycle (After BF, in oestrous phase). Vasomotor response to EFS, noradrenaline (NA) and nitric oxide (NO) donor DEA-NO were studied. Neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) and phosphorylated nNOS (P-nNOS) protein expression were analysed and NO, superoxide anion (O(2)(.-)), NA and ATP releases were also determined. EFS-induced contraction was higher in the BF group, and was recovered after BF. 1 µmol/L phentolamine decreased the response to EFS similarly in control and BF rats. NA vasoconstriction and release were similar in both experimental groups. ATP release was higher in segments from BF rats. 0.1 mmol/L L-NAME increased the response to EFS in both control and BF rats, but more so in control animals. BF decreased NO release and did not modify O(2)(.-) production. Vasodilator response to DEA-NO was similar in both groups, while nNOS and P-nNOS expressions were decreased in segments from BF animals. Breast feeding increases EFS-induced contraction in mesenteric arteries, mainly through the decrease of neuronal NO release mediated by decreased nNOS and P-nNOS expression. Sympathetic function is increased through the increased ATP release in BF rats.

Breast Feeding Increases Vasoconstriction Induced by Electrical Field Stimulation in Rat Mesenteric Artery. Role of Neuronal Nitric Oxide and ATP

PubMed Central

Caracuel, Laura; Granado, Miriam; Balfagón, Gloria

2013-01-01

Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate in rat mesenteric artery whether breast feeding (BF) affects the vasomotor response induced by electrical field stimulation (EFS), participation by different innervations in the EFS-induced response and the mechanism/s underlying these possible modifications. Methods Experiments were performed in female Sprague-Dawley rats (3 months old), divided into three groups: Control (in oestrous phase), mothers after 21 days of BF, and mothers that had recovered their oestral cycle (After BF, in oestrous phase). Vasomotor response to EFS, noradrenaline (NA) and nitric oxide (NO) donor DEA-NO were studied. Neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) and phosphorylated nNOS (P-nNOS) protein expression were analysed and NO, superoxide anion (O2 .–), NA and ATP releases were also determined. Results EFS-induced contraction was higher in the BF group, and was recovered after BF. 1 µmol/L phentolamine decreased the response to EFS similarly in control and BF rats. NA vasoconstriction and release were similar in both experimental groups. ATP release was higher in segments from BF rats. 0.1 mmol/L L-NAME increased the response to EFS in both control and BF rats, but more so in control animals. BF decreased NO release and did not modify O2 .– production. Vasodilator response to DEA-NO was similar in both groups, while nNOS and P-nNOS expressions were decreased in segments from BF animals. Conclusion Breast feeding increases EFS-induced contraction in mesenteric arteries, mainly through the decrease of neuronal NO release mediated by decreased nNOS and P-nNOS expression. Sympathetic function is increased through the increased ATP release in BF rats. PMID:23342008

Cholinergic Neurons Excite Cortically Projecting Basal Forebrain GABAergic Neurons

PubMed Central

Yang, Chun; McKenna, James T.; Zant, Janneke C.; Winston, Stuart; Basheer, Radhika

2014-01-01

The basal forebrain (BF) plays an important role in the control of cortical activation and attention. Understanding the modulation of BF neuronal activity is a prerequisite to treat disorders of cortical activation involving BF dysfunction, such as Alzheimer's disease. Here we reveal the interaction between cholinergic neurons and cortically projecting BF GABAergic neurons using immunohistochemistry and whole-cell recordings in vitro. In GAD67-GFP knock-in mice, BF cholinergic (choline acetyltransferase-positive) neurons were intermingled with GABAergic (GFP+) neurons. Immunohistochemistry for the vesicular acetylcholine transporter showed that cholinergic fibers apposed putative cortically projecting GABAergic neurons containing parvalbumin (PV). In coronal BF slices from GAD67-GFP knock-in or PV-tdTomato mice, pharmacological activation of cholinergic receptors with bath application of carbachol increased the firing rate of large (>20 μm diameter) BF GFP+ and PV (tdTomato+) neurons, which exhibited the intrinsic membrane properties of cortically projecting neurons. The excitatory effect of carbachol was blocked by antagonists of M1 and M3 muscarinic receptors in two subpopulations of BF GABAergic neurons [large hyperpolarization-activated cation current (Ih) and small Ih, respectively]. Ion substitution experiments and reversal potential measurements suggested that the carbachol-induced inward current was mediated mainly by sodium-permeable cation channels. Carbachol also increased the frequency of spontaneous excitatory and inhibitory synaptic currents. Furthermore, optogenetic stimulation of cholinergic neurons/fibers caused a mecamylamine- and atropine-sensitive inward current in putative GABAergic neurons. Thus, cortically projecting, BF GABAergic/PV neurons are excited by neighboring BF and/or brainstem cholinergic neurons. Loss of cholinergic neurons in Alzheimer's disease may impair cortical activation, in part, through disfacilitation of BF cortically projecting GABAergic/PV neurons. PMID:24553925

Effect of Hybrid Talc-Basalt Fillers in the Shell Layer on Thermal and Mechanical Performance of Co-Extruded Wood Plastic Composites

PubMed Central

Huang, Runzhou; Mei, Changtong; Xu, Xinwu; Kärki, Timo; Lee, Sunyoung; Wu, Qinglin

2015-01-01

Hybrid basalt fiber (BF) and Talc filled high density polyethylene (HDPE) and co-extruded wood-plastic composites (WPCs) with different BF/Talc/HDPE composition levels in the shell were prepared and their mechanical, morphological and thermal properties were characterized. Incorporating BFs into the HDPE-Talc composite substantially enhanced the thermal expansion property, flexural, tensile and dynamic modulus without causing a significant decrease in the tensile and impact strength of the composites. Strain energy estimation suggested positive and better interfacial interactions of HDPE with BFs than that with talc. The co-extruded structure design improved the mechanical properties of WPC due to the protective shell layer. The composite flexural and impact strength properties increased, and the thermal expansion decreased as BF content increased in the hybrid BF/Talc filled shells. The cone calorimetry data demonstrated that flame resistance of co-extruded WPCs was improved with the use of combined fillers in the shell layer, especially with increased loading of BFs. The combined shell filler system with BFs and Talc could offer a balance between cost and performance for co-extruded WPCs. PMID:28793726

Effect of Hybrid Talc-Basalt Fillers in the Shell Layer on Thermal and Mechanical Performance of Co-Extruded Wood Plastic Composites.

PubMed

Huang, Runzhou; Mei, Changtong; Xu, Xinwu; Kärki, Timo; Lee, Sunyoung; Wu, Qinglin

2015-12-08

Hybrid basalt fiber (BF) and Talc filled high density polyethylene (HDPE) and co-extruded wood-plastic composites (WPCs) with different BF/Talc/HDPE composition levels in the shell were prepared and their mechanical, morphological and thermal properties were characterized. Incorporating BFs into the HDPE-Talc composite substantially enhanced the thermal expansion property, flexural, tensile and dynamic modulus without causing a significant decrease in the tensile and impact strength of the composites. Strain energy estimation suggested positive and better interfacial interactions of HDPE with BFs than that with talc. The co-extruded structure design improved the mechanical properties of WPC due to the protective shell layer. The composite flexural and impact strength properties increased, and the thermal expansion decreased as BF content increased in the hybrid BF/Talc filled shells. The cone calorimetry data demonstrated that flame resistance of co-extruded WPCs was improved with the use of combined fillers in the shell layer, especially with increased loading of BFs. The combined shell filler system with BFs and Talc could offer a balance between cost and performance for co-extruded WPCs.

A teat papillomatosis case in a Damascus goat (Shami goat) in Hatay province, Turkey: a new putative papillomavirus?

PubMed

Dogan, Fırat; Dorttas, Selvi Deniz; Bilge Dagalp, Seval; Ataseven, Veysel Soydal; Alkan, Feray

2018-06-01

Papillomaviruses (PVs) are epitheliotropic viruses that cause benign proliferative lesions in the skin (warts or papillomas) and mucous membranes of their natural hosts. Recently, new PVs have been found in many animal species. The most common current approach for identifying novel PV types is based on PCR, using various consensus or degenerated primer (broad-range primers), designed on the basis of the multiple alignment of nucleotide or amino acid sequences of a large number of different human papillomaviruses (HPV). PVs have been classified according to the sequence similarity of one of their capsid proteins, L1, without taking into account other regions of the genome and without considering the phenotypic characteristics of the viral infection. In this study, we performed molecular detection and typing of a PV in a goat with teat papillomatosis. Firstly, PCR was performed using the FAP59/FAP64 and MY09/MY11 primer pairs for the L1 gene region. The PV DNA was found to be positive only with the FAP59/FAP64 primer pair. PV DNA was then tested with three primer sets in four different combinations (L2Bf/FAP64, L2Bf/L1Br, FAP59/FAP64, L1Bf/LCRBr) for the gene region encoding the L1, L2 and LCR proteins. The goat teat papilloma sample was amplified using FAP59/FAP64 primers and two primer pairs (L2Bf/FAP64 and L2Bf/L1Br). We obtained products matching approximately 604 bp of the L1 region of the virus. PV DNA was used for typing using sequence analysis/PCR with some type-specific primers for bovids, caprids and cervids. The results of the sequence analysis suggested one new putative PV type with sequence identity ranging from 46.45 to 80.09% to other known papillomaviruses, including Capra hircus papillomavirus (ChPV-2), bovine papillomavirus (BPV) 6, 7, 10, 11 and 12, Rangifer tarandus papillomavirus 3 (RtPV-3) and BPV-7Z (Alpine wild ruminant papillomavirus; Cervus elaphus papillomavirus). We therefore propose that this is the first identification of a new putative type, MG523274 (HTY-goat-TR2016), in a goat with teat papillomatosis. It is essential to identify PV types in different animal species and investigate their prevalence/distribution and clinical consequences in order to develop appropriate prophylactic and/or therapeutic procedures and to determine the interspecies transmission potential and evolution of PVs.

Phenotyping of tumor biology in patients by multimodality multiparametric imaging: relationship of microcirculation, alphavbeta3 expression, and glucose metabolism.

PubMed

Metz, Stephan; Ganter, Carl; Lorenzen, Sylvie; van Marwick, Sandra; Herrmann, Ken; Lordick, Florian; Nekolla, Stephan G; Rummeny, Ernst J; Wester, Hans-Jürgen; Brix, Gunnar; Schwaiger, Markus; Beer, Ambros J

2010-11-01

Both dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MRI and PET provide quantitative information on tumor biology in living organisms. However, imaging biomarkers often neglect tissue heterogeneity by focusing on distributional summary statistics. We analyzed the spatial relationship of α(v)β(3) expression, glucose metabolism, and perfusion by PET and DCE MRI, focusing on tumor heterogeneity. Thirteen patients with primary or metastasized cancer (non-small cell lung cancer, n = 9; others, n = 4) were examined with DCE MRI and with PET using (18)F-galacto-RGD and (18)F-FDG. Twenty-three different regions of interest were defined by cluster analysis based on the heterogeneity of tracer uptake. In these regions, the initial area under the gadopentetate dimeglumine concentration-time curve (IAUGC), as well as the regional blood volume (rBV) and regional blood flow (rBF), were estimated from DCE MRI and correlated with standardized uptake values from PET. Regions with simultaneously high uptake of (18)F-galacto-RGD and (18)F-FDG showed higher functional MRI data (IAUGC, 0.35 ± 0.04 mM·s; rBF, 70.2 ± 12.7 mL/min/100 g; rBV, 23.3 ± 2.7 mL/100 g) than did areas with low uptake of both tracers (IAUGC, 0.15 ± 0.04 mM·s [P < 0.01]; rBF, 28.3 ± 10.8 mL/min/100 g; rBV, 9.9 ± 1.9 mL/100 g [P < 0.01]). There was a weak to moderate correlation between the functional MRI parameters and (18)F-galacto-RGD (r = 0.30-0.62) and also (18)F-FDG (r = 0.44-0.52); these correlations were significant (P < 0.05), except for (18)F-galacto-RGD versus rBF (P = 0.17). These data show that multiparametric assessment of tumor heterogeneity is feasible by combining PET and MRI. Perfusion is highest in tumor areas with simultaneously high α(v)β(3) expression and high glucose metabolism and restricted in areas with both low α(v)β(3) expression and low glucose metabolism. The current limitations resulting from imaging with separate scanners might be overcome by future hybrid PET/MRI scanners.

Temporal divergence of percent body fat and body mass index in pre-teenage children: the LOOK longitudinal study.

PubMed

Telford, R D; Cunningham, R B; Abhayaratna, W P

2014-12-01

The index of body mass related to stature, (body mass index, BMI, kgm(-2) ), is widely used as a proxy for percent body fat (%BF) in cross-sectional and longitudinal investigations. BMI does not distinguish between lean and fat mass and in children, the cross-sectional relationship between %BF and BMI changes with age and sex. While BMI increases linearly with age from age 8 to 12 years in both boys and girls, %BF plateaus off between 10 and 12 years. Repeated measures in children show a systematic decrease in %BF for any given BMI from age 8 to 10 to 12 years. Because changes in BMI misrepresent changes in %BF, its use as a proxy of %BF should be avoided in longitudinal studies in this age group. Body mass index (BMI, kgm(-2) ) is commonly used as an indicator of pediatric adiposity, but with its inability to distinguish changes in lean and fat mass, its use in longitudinal studies of children requires careful consideration. To investigate the suitability of BMI as a surrogate of percent body fat (%BF) in pediatric longitudinal investigations. In this longitudinal study, healthy Australian children (256 girls and 278 boys) were measured at ages 8.0 (standard deviation 0.3), 10.0 and 12.0 years for height, weight and percent body fat (%BF) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The patterns of change in the means of %BF and BMI were different (P < 0.001). While mean BMI increased linearly from 8 to 12 years of age, %BF did not change between 10 and 12 years. Relationships between %BF and BMI in boys and girls were curvilinear and varied with age (P < 0.001) and gender (P < 0.001); any given BMI corresponding with a lower %BF as a child became older. Considering the divergence of temporal patterns of %BF and BMI between 10 and 12 years of age, employment of BMI as a proxy for %BF in absolute or age and sex standardized forms in pediatric longitudinal investigations is problematical. © 2013 The Authors. Pediatric Obesity © 2013 International Association for the Study of Obesity.

Dual-energy CT iodine maps as an alternative quantitative imaging biomarker to abdominal CT perfusion: determination of appropriate trigger delays for acquisition using bolus tracking.

PubMed

Skornitzke, Stephan; Fritz, Franziska; Mayer, Philipp; Koell, Marco; Hansen, Jens; Pahn, Gregor; Hackert, Thilo; Kauczor, Hans-Ulrich; Stiller, Wolfram

2018-05-01

Quantitative evaluation of different bolus tracking trigger delays for acquisition of dual energy (DE) CT iodine maps as an alternative to CT perfusion. Prior to this retrospective analysis of prospectively acquired data, DECT perfusion sequences were dynamically acquired in 22 patients with pancreatic carcinoma using dual source CT at 80/140 kV p with tin filtration. After deformable motion-correction, perfusion maps of blood flow (BF) were calculated from 80 kV p image series of DECT, and iodine maps were calculated for each of the 34 DECT acquisitions per patient. BF and iodine concentrations were measured in healthy pancreatic tissue and carcinoma. To evaluate potential DECT acquisition triggered by bolus tracking, measured iodine concentrations from the 34 DECT acquisitions per patient corresponding to different trigger delays were assessed for correlation to BF and intergroup differences between tissue types depending on acquisition time. Average BF measured in healthy pancreatic tissue and carcinoma was 87.6 ± 28.4 and 38.6 ± 22.2 ml/100 ml min -1 , respectively. Correlation between iodine concentrations and BF was statistically significant for bolus tracking with trigger delay greater than 0 s (r max = 0.89; p < 0.05). Differences in iodine concentrations between healthy pancreatic tissue and carcinoma were statistically significant for DECT acquisitions corresponding to trigger delays of 15-21 s (p < 0.05). An acquisition window between 15 and 21 s after exceeding bolus tracking threshold shows promising results for acquisition of DECT iodine maps as an alternative to CT perfusion measurements of BF. Advances in knowledge: After clinical validation, DECT iodine maps of pancreas acquired using bolus tracking with appropriate trigger delay as determined in this study could offer an alternative quantitative imaging biomarker providing functional information for tumor assessment at reduced patient radiation exposure compared to CT perfusion measurements of BF.

Posterior Thalamic Nucleus Modulation of Tactile Stimuli Processing in Rat Motor and Primary Somatosensory Cortices

PubMed Central

Casas-Torremocha, Diana; Clascá, Francisco; Núñez, Ángel

2017-01-01

Rodents move rhythmically their facial whiskers and compute differences between signals predicted and those resulting from the movement to infer information about objects near their head. These computations are carried out by a large network of forebrain structures that includes the thalamus and the primary somatosensory (S1BF) and motor (M1wk) cortices. Spatially and temporally precise mechanorreceptive whisker information reaches the S1BF cortex via the ventroposterior medial thalamic nucleus (VPM). Other whisker-related information may reach both M1wk and S1BF via the axons from the posterior thalamic nucleus (Po). However, Po axons may convey, in addition to direct sensory signals, the dynamic output of computations between whisker signals and descending motor commands. It has been proposed that this input may be relevant for adjusting cortical responses to predicted vs. unpredicted whisker signals, but the effects of Po input on M1wk and S1BF function have not been directly tested or compared in vivo. Here, using electrophysiology, optogenetics and pharmacological tools, we compared in adult rats M1wk and S1BF in vivo responses in the whisker areas of the motor and primary somatosensory cortices to passive multi-whisker deflection, their dependence on Po activity, and their changes after a brief intense activation of Po axons. We report that the latencies of the first component of tactile-evoked local field potentials in M1wk and S1BF are similar. The evoked potentials decrease markedly in M1wk, but not in S1BF, by injection in Po of the GABAA agonist muscimol. A brief high-frequency electrical stimulation of Po decreases the responsivity of M1wk and S1BF cells to subsequent whisker stimulation. This effect is prevented by the local application of omega-agatoxin, suggesting that it may in part depend on GABA release by fast-spiking parvalbumin (PV)-expressing cortical interneurons. Local optogenetic activation of Po synapses in different cortical layers also diminishes M1wk and S1BF responses. This effect is most pronounced in the superficial layers of both areas, known to be the main source and target of their reciprocal cortico-cortical connections. PMID:29021744

Mechanistic investigations of imine hydrogenation catalyzed by cationic iridium complexes.

PubMed

Martín, Marta; Sola, Eduardo; Tejero, Santiago; Andrés, José L; Oro, Luis A

2006-05-15

Complexes [IrH2(eta6-C6H6)(PiPr3)]BF4 (1) and [IrH2(NCMe)3(PiPr3)]BF4 (2) are catalyst precursors for homogeneous hydrogenation of N-benzylideneaniline under mild conditions. Precursor 1 generates the resting state [IrH2{eta5-(C6H5)NHCH2Ph}(PiPr3)]BF4 (3), while 2 gives rise to a mixture of [IrH{PhN=CH(C6H4)-kappaN,C}(NCMe)2(PiPr3)]BF4 (4) and [IrH{PhN=CH(C6H4)-kappaN,C}(NCMe)(NH2Ph)(PiPr3)]BF4 (5), in which the aniline ligand is derived from hydrolysis of the imine. The less hindered benzophenone imine forms the catalytically inactive, doubly cyclometalated compound [Ir{HN=CPh(C6H4)-kappaN,C}2(NH2CHPh2)(PiPr3)]BF4 (6). Hydrogenations with precursor 1 are fast and their reaction profiles are strongly dependent on solvent, concentrations, and temperature. Significant induction periods, minimized by addition of the amine hydrogenation product, are commonly observed. The catalytic rate law (THF) is rate = k[1][PhN=CHPh]p(H2). The results of selected stoichiometric reactions of potential catalytic intermediates exclude participation of the cyclometalated compounds [IrH{PhN=CH(C6H4)-kappaN,C}(S)2(PiPr3)]BF4 [S = acetonitrile (4), [D6]acetone (7), [D4]methanol (8)] in catalysis. Reactions between resting state 3 and D2 reveal a selective sequence of deuterium incorporation into the complex which is accelerated by the amine product. Hydrogen bonding among the components of the catalytic reaction was examined by MP2 calculations on model compounds. The calculations allow formulation of an ionic, outer-sphere, bifunctional hydrogenation mechanism comprising 1) amine-assisted oxidative addition of H2 to 3, the result of which is equivalent to heterolytic splitting of dihydrogen, 2) replacement of a hydrogen-bonded amine by imine, and 3) simultaneous H delta+/H delta- transfer to the imine substrate from the NH moiety of an arene-coordinated amine ligand and the metal, respectively.

Gyroscope-Like Complexes Based on Dibridgehead Diphosphine Cages That Are Accessed by Three-Fold Intramolecular Ring Closing Metatheses and Encase Fe(CO)3, Fe(CO)2(NO)(+), and Fe(CO)3(H)(+) Rotators.

PubMed

Lang, Georgette M; Shima, Takanori; Wang, Leyong; Cluff, Kyle J; Skopek, Katrin; Hampel, Frank; Blümel, Janet; Gladysz, John A

2016-06-22

Reactions of trans-Fe(CO)3(P((CH2)mCH═CH2)3)2 (m = a/4; b/5, c/6, e/8) and Grubbs' catalyst (12-24 mol %, CH2Cl2, reflux) give the cage-like trienes trans- Fe(CO)3(P((CH2)mCH═CH(CH2)m)3 P) (3a-c,e, 60-81%). Hydrogenations (ClRh(PPh3)3, 60-80 °C) yield the title compounds trans- Fe(CO)3(P((CH2)n)3 P) (4a-c,e, 74-86%; n = 2m + 2), which have idealized D3h symmetry. A crystal structure of 4c suggests enough van der Waals clearance for the Fe(CO)3 moiety to rotate within the three P(CH2)14P linkages; structures of E,E,E-3a show rotation to be blocked by the shorter P(CH2)4CH═CH(CH2)4P linkages. Additions of NO(+)BF4(-) give the isoelectronic and isosteric cations [ Fe(CO)2(NO)(P((CH2)n)3 P)](+)BF4(-) (5a-c(+)BF4(-); 81-98%). Additions of [H(OEt2)2](+)BArf(-) (BArf = B(3,5-C6H3(CF3)2)4) afford the metal hydride complexes mer,trans-[ Fe(CO)3(H)(P((CH2)n)3 P)](+)BArf(-) (6a-c,e(+)BArf(-); 98-99%). The behavior of the rotators in the preceding complexes is probed by VT NMR. At ambient temperature in solution, 5a,b(+)BF4(-) and 6a(+)BArf(-) show two sets of P(CH2)n/2 (13)C NMR signals (2:1), whereas 5c(+)BF4(-) and 6b,c(+)BArf(-) show only one. At higher temperatures, the signals of 5b(+)BF4(-) coalesce; at lower temperatures, those of 5c(+)BF4(-) and 6b(+)BArf(-) decoalesce. These data give ΔH(⧧)/ΔS(⧧) values (kcal/mol and eu) of 8.3/-28.4 and 9.5/-6.5 for Fe(CO)2(NO)(+) rotation (5b,c(+)) and 6.1/-23.5 for Fe(CO)3(H)(+) rotation (6b(+)). (13)C CP/MAS NMR spectra show that the Fe(CO)3 moiety in polycrystalline 4c (but not 4a) undergoes rapid rotation between -60 and 95 °C. Approaches to minimizing these barriers and developing molecular gyroscopes are discussed.

Emergence of recombinant forms in geographic regions with co-circulating HIV subtypes in the dynamic HIV-1 epidemic

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

Zhang, Ming; Letiner, Thomas K; Korber, Bette T

2009-01-01

We have reexamined the subtype designations of {approx}10,000 subtype A, B, C, G, and AG, BC, BF recombinant sequences, and compared the results of the new analysis with their published designations. Intersubtype recombinants dominate HIV epidemics in three different geographical regions. The circulating recombinant from (CRF) CRF02-AG, common in West Central Africa, appears to result from a recombination event that occurred early in the divergence between subtypes A and G, although additional more recent recombination events may have contributed to the breakpoint pattern in this recombinant lineage as well. The Chinese recombinant epidemic strains CRF07 and CRF08, in contrast, resultmore » from recent recombinations between more contemporary strains. Nevertheless, CRF07 and CRF08 contributed to many subsequent recombination events. The BF recombinant epidemics in two HIV-1 epicenters in South America are not independent and BF epidemics in South America have an unusually high fraction of unique recombinant forms (URFs) that have each been found only once and carry distinctive breakpoints. Taken together, these analyses reveal a complex and dynamic picture of the current HIV-1 epidemic, and suggest a means of grouping and tracking relationships between viruses through preservation of shared breakpints.« less

Optogenetic Dissection of the Basal Forebrain Neuromodulatory Control of Cortical Activation, Plasticity, and Cognition

PubMed Central

Brown, Ritchie E.; Hussain Shuler, Marshall G.; Petersen, Carl C.H.; Kepecs, Adam

2015-01-01

The basal forebrain (BF) houses major ascending projections to the entire neocortex that have long been implicated in arousal, learning, and attention. The disruption of the BF has been linked with major neurological disorders, such as coma and Alzheimer's disease, as well as in normal cognitive aging. Although it is best known for its cholinergic neurons, the BF is in fact an anatomically and neurochemically complex structure. Recent studies using transgenic mouse lines to target specific BF cell types have led to a renaissance in the study of the BF and are beginning to yield new insights about cell-type-specific circuit mechanisms during behavior. These approaches enable us to determine the behavioral conditions under which cholinergic and noncholinergic BF neurons are activated and how they control cortical processing to influence behavior. Here we discuss recent advances that have expanded our knowledge about this poorly understood brain region and laid the foundation for future cell-type-specific manipulations to modulate arousal, attention, and cortical plasticity in neurological disorders. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Although the basal forebrain is best known for, and often equated with, acetylcholine-containing neurons that provide most of the cholinergic innervation of the neocortex, it is in fact an anatomically and neurochemically complex structure. Recent studies using transgenic mouse lines to target specific cell types in the basal forebrain have led to a renaissance in this field and are beginning to dissect circuit mechanisms in the basal forebrain during behavior. This review discusses recent advances in the roles of basal forebrain cholinergic and noncholinergic neurons in cognition via their dynamic modulation of cortical activity. PMID:26468190

Capillary evaporation of the ionic liquid [EMIM][BF4] in nanoscale solvophobic confinement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shrivastav, Gourav; Remsing, Richard C.; Kashyap, Hemant K.

2018-05-01

Solvent density fluctuations play a crucial role in liquid-vapor transitions in solvophobic confinement and can also be important for understanding solvation of polar and apolar solutes. In the case of ionic liquids (ILs), density fluctuations can be used to understand important processes in the context of nanoscale aggregation and colloidal self-assemblies. In this article, we explore the nature of density fluctuations associated with capillary evaporation of the IL 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([EMIM][BF4]) in the confined region of model solvophobic nanoscale sheets by using molecular dynamics simulations combined with non-Boltzmann sampling techniques. We demonstrate that density fluctuations of the confined IL play an important role in capillary evaporation, suggesting analogies to dewetting transitions involving water. Significant changes in the interfacial structure of the IL are also detailed and suggested to underlie a non-classical (non-parabolic) dependence of the free energy barrier to evaporation on the degree of confinement.

Continuous Rapid Quantification of Stroke Volume Using Magnetohydrodynamic Voltages in 3T Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

PubMed

Gregory, T Stan; Oshinski, John; Schmidt, Ehud J; Kwong, Raymond Y; Stevenson, William G; Ho Tse, Zion Tsz

2015-12-01

To develop a technique to noninvasively estimate stroke volume in real time during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided procedures, based on induced magnetohydrodynamic voltages (VMHD) that occur in ECG recordings during MRI exams, leaving the MRI scanner free to perform other imaging tasks. Because of the relationship between blood flow (BF) and VMHD, we hypothesized that a method to obtain stroke volume could be derived from extracted VMHD vectors in the vectorcardiogram (VCG) frame of reference (VMHDVCG). To estimate a subject-specific BF-VMHD model, VMHDVCG was acquired during a 20-s breath-hold and calibrated versus aortic BF measured using phase-contrast magnetic resonance in 10 subjects (n=10) and 1 subject diagnosed with premature ventricular contractions. Beat-to-beat validation of VMHDVCG-derived BF was performed using real-time phase-contrast imaging in 7 healthy subjects (n=7) during 15-minute cardiac exercise stress tests and 30 minutes after stress relaxation in 3T MRIs. Subject-specific equations were derived to correlate VMHDVCG with BF at rest and validated using real-time phase-contrast. An average error of 7.22% and 3.69% in stroke volume estimation, respectively, was found during peak stress and after complete relaxation. Measured beat-to-beat BF time history derived from real-time phase-contrast and VMHD was highly correlated using a Spearman rank correlation coefficient during stress tests (0.89) and after stress relaxation (0.86). Accurate beat-to-beat stroke volume and BF were estimated using VMHDVCG extracted from intra-MRI 12-lead ECGs, providing a means to enhance patient monitoring during MR imaging and MR-guided interventions. © 2015 American Heart Association, Inc.

Modeling Active Contraction and Relaxation of Left Ventricle Using Different Zero-load Diastole and Systole Geometries for Better Material Parameter Estimation and Stress/Strain Calculations

PubMed Central

Fan, Longling; Yao, Jing; Yang, Chun; Xu, Di; Tang, Dalin

2018-01-01

Modeling ventricle active contraction based on in vivo data is extremely challenging because of complex ventricle geometry, dynamic heart motion and active contraction where the reference geometry (zero-stress geometry) changes constantly. A new modeling approach using different diastole and systole zero-load geometries was introduced to handle the changing zero-load geometries for more accurate stress/strain calculations. Echo image data were acquired from 5 patients with infarction (Infarct Group) and 10 without (Non-Infarcted Group). Echo-based computational two-layer left ventricle models using one zero-load geometry (1G) and two zero-load geometries (2G) were constructed. Material parameter values in Mooney-Rivlin models were adjusted to match echo volume data. Effective Young’s moduli (YM) were calculated for easy comparison. For diastole phase, begin-filling (BF) mean YM value in the fiber direction (YMf) was 738% higher than its end-diastole (ED) value (645.39 kPa vs. 76.97 kPa, p=3.38E-06). For systole phase, end-systole (ES) YMf was 903% higher than its begin-ejection (BE) value (1025.10 kPa vs. 102.11 kPa, p=6.10E-05). Comparing systolic and diastolic material properties, ES YMf was 59% higher than its BF value (1025.10 kPa vs. 645.39 kPa. p=0.0002). BE mean stress value was 514% higher than its ED value (299.69 kPa vs. 48.81 kPa, p=3.39E-06), while BE mean strain value was 31.5% higher than its ED value (0.9417 vs. 0.7162, p=0.004). Similarly, ES mean stress value was 562% higher than its BF value (19.74 kPa vs. 2.98 kPa, p=6.22E-05), and ES mean strain value was 264% higher than its BF value (0.1985 vs. 0.0546, p=3.42E-06). 2G models improved over 1G model limitations and may provide better material parameter estimation and stress/strain calculations. PMID:29399004

Modeling Active Contraction and Relaxation of Left Ventricle Using Different Zero-load Diastole and Systole Geometries for Better Material Parameter Estimation and Stress/Strain Calculations.

PubMed

Fan, Longling; Yao, Jing; Yang, Chun; Xu, Di; Tang, Dalin

2016-01-01

Modeling ventricle active contraction based on in vivo data is extremely challenging because of complex ventricle geometry, dynamic heart motion and active contraction where the reference geometry (zero-stress geometry) changes constantly. A new modeling approach using different diastole and systole zero-load geometries was introduced to handle the changing zero-load geometries for more accurate stress/strain calculations. Echo image data were acquired from 5 patients with infarction (Infarct Group) and 10 without (Non-Infarcted Group). Echo-based computational two-layer left ventricle models using one zero-load geometry (1G) and two zero-load geometries (2G) were constructed. Material parameter values in Mooney-Rivlin models were adjusted to match echo volume data. Effective Young's moduli (YM) were calculated for easy comparison. For diastole phase, begin-filling (BF) mean YM value in the fiber direction (YM f ) was 738% higher than its end-diastole (ED) value (645.39 kPa vs. 76.97 kPa, p=3.38E-06). For systole phase, end-systole (ES) YM f was 903% higher than its begin-ejection (BE) value (1025.10 kPa vs. 102.11 kPa, p=6.10E-05). Comparing systolic and diastolic material properties, ES YM f was 59% higher than its BF value (1025.10 kPa vs. 645.39 kPa. p=0.0002). BE mean stress value was 514% higher than its ED value (299.69 kPa vs. 48.81 kPa, p=3.39E-06), while BE mean strain value was 31.5% higher than its ED value (0.9417 vs. 0.7162, p=0.004). Similarly, ES mean stress value was 562% higher than its BF value (19.74 kPa vs. 2.98 kPa, p=6.22E-05), and ES mean strain value was 264% higher than its BF value (0.1985 vs. 0.0546, p=3.42E-06). 2G models improved over 1G model limitations and may provide better material parameter estimation and stress/strain calculations.

Genomic analysis of Bacteroides fragilis reveals extensive DNA inversions regulating cell surface adaptation

PubMed Central

Kuwahara, Tomomi; Yamashita, Atsushi; Hirakawa, Hideki; Nakayama, Haruyuki; Toh, Hidehiro; Okada, Natsumi; Kuhara, Satoru; Hattori, Masahira; Hayashi, Tetsuya; Ohnishi, Yoshinari

2004-01-01

Bacteroides are predominant human colonic commensals, but the principal pathogenic species, Bacteroides fragilis (BF), lives closely associated with the mucosal surface, whereas a second major species, Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron (BT), concentrates within the colon. We find corresponding differences in their genomes, based on determination of the genome sequence of BF and comparative analysis with BT. Both species have acquired two mechanisms that contribute to their dominance among the colonic microbiota: an exceptional capability to use a wide range of dietary polysaccharides by gene amplification and the capacity to create variable surface antigenicities by multiple DNA inversion systems. However, the gene amplification for polysaccharide assimilation is more developed in BT, in keeping with its internal localization. In contrast, external antigenic structures can be changed more systematically in BF. Thereby, at the mucosal surface, where microbes encounter continuous attack by host defenses, BF evasion of the immune system is favored, and its colonization and infectious potential are increased. PMID:15466707

Atomistic Simulation and Electronic Structure of Lithium Doped Ionic Liquids: Structure, Transport, and Electrochemical Stability

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haskins, Justin B.; Bauschlicher, Charles W.; Lawson, John W.

2015-01-01

Zero-temperature density functional theory (DFT), density functional theory molecular dynamics (DFT-MD), and classical molecular dynamics using polarizable force fields (PFF-MD) are employed to evaluate the influence of Lithium ion on the structure, transport, and electrochemical stability of three potential ionic liquid electrolytes: N--methyl-N-butylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide ([pyr14][TFSI]), N--methyl-N-propylpyrrolidinium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide ([pyr13][FSI]), and 1-ethyl-3--methylimidazolium boron tetrafluoride ([EMIM][BF4]). We characterize the Lithium ion solvation shell through zero-temperature DFT simulations of [Li(Anion)sub n](exp n-1) -clusters, DFT-MD simulations of isolated lithium ions in small ionic liquid systems, and PFF-MD simulations with high Li-doping levels in large ionic liquid systems. At low levels of Li-salt doping, highly stable solvation shells having 2-3 anions are seen in both [pyr14][TFSI] and [pyr13][FSI], while solvation shells with 4 anions dominate in [EMIM][BF sub 4]. At higher levels of doping, we find the formation of complex Li-network structures that increase the frequency of 4 anion-coordinated solvation shells. A comparison of computational and experimental Raman spectra for a wide range of [Li(Anion) sub n](exp n -1) - clusters shows that our proposed structures are consistent with experiment. We estimate the ion diffusion coefficients and quantify both size and simulation time effects. We find estimates of lithium ion diffusion are a reasonable order of magnitude and can be corrected for simulation time effects. Simulation size, on the other hand, is also important, with diffusion coefficients from long PFF-MD simulations of small cells having 20-40% error compared to large-cell values. Finally, we compute the electrochemical window using differences in electronic energy levels of both isolated cation/anion pairs and small ionic liquid systems with Li-salt doping. The single pair and liquid-phase systems provide similar estimates of electrochemical window, while Li-doping in the liquid-phase systems results in electrochemical windows little changed from the neat systems. Pure and hybrid functionals systematically provide an upper and lower bound, respectively, to the experimental electrochemical window for the systems studied here.

Evaluation of the BOD POD for estimating percent body fat in collegiate track and field female athletes: a comparison of four methods.

PubMed

Bentzur, Keren M; Kravitz, Len; Lockner, Donna W

2008-11-01

This investigation examined the accuracy of the BOD POD on a group of Division I collegiate track and field female athletes (N = 30). Hydrostatic weighing (HW) was used as the gold standard method. Body density (Db) values obtained from the BOD POD (Db BP) were compared with those determined by HW (Db HW). Both Db values were converted to percent body fat (%BF) using the Siri equation for comparison. Percent body fat values obtained from the BOD POD (BF BP) were also compared with those obtained from dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA, BF DXA) and skinfold (SF, BF SF). The validity of the BOD POD was assessed using repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), and the relationship between the methods was examined through Pearson correlation. Average Db BP was 0.00890 g x cm(-3) lower (p < 0.05) than Db HW, resulting in a significant overestimation of %BF (p < 0.05) by the BOD POD. Values for BFDXA and BFBP also differed significantly (p < 0.05). On the other hand, BFSF and BF BP were not significantly different. The correlation between percent body fat values obtained from HW (BFHW) and BF BP was good (r = 0.88, SEE = 2.30) as well as between BF SF and BF BP (r = 0.85, SEE = 2.05). Conversely, the correlation between BFDXA and BF BP was poor (r = 0.25, SEE = 5.73). The strong correlation between BF BP and BF HW presented here suggests that the BOD POD has the potential to be used as a body composition analysis tool for female athletes. The advantages of the BOD POD over HW encourage further investigation of this instrument. However, the fact that the BOD POD and SF results did not differ significantly might suggest that the SF could be used in its place until a better rate of accuracy for this instrument is established.

Breastfeeding, mixed or formula feeding at 9 months and the prevalence of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in two cohorts of infants in China

PubMed Central

Clark, Katy M.; Li, Ming; Zhu, Bingquan; Liang, Furong; Shao, Jie; Zhang, Yueyang; Ji, Chai; Zhao, Zhengyan; Kaciroti, Niko; Lozoff, Betsy

2016-01-01

Objective To assess associations between breastfeeding and iron status at 9 months in two samples of Chinese infants. Study design Associations between feeding at 9 months (breastfed [BF] as sole milk source, mixed-fed [MF], or formula-fed [FF]) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA), iron deficiency (ID), and iron sufficiency were determined in infants from Zhejiang and Hebei provinces (ns = 142 and 813). ID was defined as body iron < 0 mg/kg, IDA as ID + hemoglobin < 110 g/L. Multiple logistic regression assessed associations between feeding pattern and iron status. Results Breastfeeding was associated with iron status (P-values < .001). In Zhejiang, 27.5% of BF infants had IDA compared with 0% of FF infants. The odds of ID/IDA were increased in BF and MF infants compared with FF: BF vs. FF odds ratio (OR): 28.8, 95% CI: 3.7–226.4; MF vs. FF OR: 11.0, 95% CI: 1.2–103.2. In Hebei, 44.0% of BF infants had IDA compared with 2.8% of FF infants. With covariable adjustment, odds of IDA were increased in BF and MF groups: BF vs. FF OR: 78.8, 95% CI: 27.2–228.1; MF vs. FF OR: 21.0, 95% CI: 7.3–60.9. Conclusions In both cohorts, the odds of ID/IDA at 9 months were increased in BF and MF infants, and ID/IDA was common. Although the benefits of breastfeeding are indisputable, these findings add to the evidence that breastfeeding in later infancy identifies infants at risk for ID/IDA in many settings. Protocols for detecting and preventing ID/IDA in BF infants are needed. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00642863 and NCT00613717 PMID:27836288

Pharmacokinetics of tildipirosin in bovine plasma, lung tissue, and bronchial fluid (from live, nonanesthetized cattle).

PubMed

Menge, M; Rose, M; Bohland, C; Zschiesche, E; Kilp, S; Metz, W; Allan, M; Röpke, R; Nürnberger, M

2012-12-01

The pharmacokinetics of tildipirosin (Zuprevo(®) 180 mg/mL solution for injection for cattle), a novel 16-membered macrolide for treatment, control, and prevention of bovine respiratory disease, were investigated in studies collecting blood plasma, lung tissue, and in vivo samples of bronchial fluid (BF) from cattle. After single subcutaneous (s.c.) injection at 4 mg/kg body weight, maximum plasma concentration (C(max)) was 0.7 μg/mL. T(max) was 23 min. Mean residence time from the time of dosing to the time of last measurable concentration (MRT(last)) and terminal half-life (T(1/2) ) was 6 and 9 days, respectively. A strong dose-response relationship with no significant sex effect was shown for both C(max) and area under the plasma concentration-time curve from time 0 to the last sampling time with a quantifiable drug concentration (AUC(last) ) over the range of doses up to 6 mg/kg. Absolute bioavailability was 78.9%. The volume of distribution based on the terminal phase (V(z)) was 49.4 L/kg, and the plasma clearance was 144 mL/h/kg. The time-concentration profile of tildipirosin in BF and lung far exceeded those in blood plasma. In lung, tildipirosin concentrations reached 9.2 μg/g at 4 h, peaked at 14.8 μg/g at day 1, and slowly declined to 2.0 μg/g at day 28. In BF, the concentration of tildipirosin reached 1.5 and 3.0 μg/g at 4 and 10 h, maintained a plateau of about 3.5 μg/g between day 1 and 3, and slowly declined to 1.0 at day 21. T(1/2) in lung and BF was approximately 10 and 11 days. Tildipirosin is rapidly and extensively distributed to the respiratory tract followed by slow elimination. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Use of a benzimidazole derivative BF-188 in fluorescence multispectral imaging for selective visualization of tau protein fibrils in the Alzheimer's disease brain.

PubMed

Harada, Ryuichi; Okamura, Nobuyuki; Furumoto, Shozo; Yoshikawa, Takeo; Arai, Hiroyuki; Yanai, Kazuhiko; Kudo, Yukitsuka

2014-02-01

Selective visualization of amyloid-β and tau protein deposits will help to understand the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Here, we introduce a novel fluorescent probe that can distinguish between these two deposits by multispectral fluorescence imaging technique. Fluorescence spectral analysis was performed using AD brain sections stained with novel fluorescence compounds. Competitive binding assay using [(3)H]-PiB was performed to evaluate the binding affinity of BF-188 for synthetic amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau fibrils. In AD brain sections, BF-188 clearly stained Aβ and tau protein deposits with different fluorescence spectra. In vitro binding assays indicated that BF-188 bound to both amyloid-β and tau fibrils with high affinity (K i  < 10 nM). In addition, BF-188 showed an excellent blood-brain barrier permeability in mice. Multispectral imaging with BF-188 could potentially be used for selective in vivo imaging of tau deposits as well as amyloid-β in the brain.

Micelle formation of nonionic surfactants in a room temperature ionic liquid, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate: surfactant chain length dependence of the critical micelle concentration.

PubMed

Inoue, Tohru; Yamakawa, Haruka

2011-04-15

Micellization behavior was investigated for polyoxyethylene-type nonionic surfactants with varying chain length (C(n)E(m)) in a room temperature ionic liquid, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (bmimBF(4)). Critical micelle concentration (cmc) was determined from the variation of (1)H NMR chemical shift with the surfactant concentration. The logarithmic value of cmc decreased linearly with the number of carbon atoms in the surfactant hydrocarbon chain, similarly to the case observed in aqueous surfactant solutions. However, the slope of the straight line is much smaller in bmimBF(4) than in aqueous solution. Thermodynamic parameters for micelle formation estimated from the temperature dependence of cmc showed that the micellization in bmimBF(4) is an entropy-driven process around room temperature. This behavior is also similar to the case in aqueous solution. However, the magnitude of the entropic contribution to the overall micellization free energy in bmimBF(4) is much smaller compared with that in aqueous solution. These results suggest that the micellization in bmimBF(4) proceeds through a mechanism similar to the hydrophobic interaction in aqueous surfactant solutions, although the solvophobic effect in bmimBF(4) is much weaker than the hydrophobic effect. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Antenatal breastfeeding education for increasing breastfeeding duration.

PubMed

Lumbiganon, Pisake; Martis, Ruth; Laopaiboon, Malinee; Festin, Mario R; Ho, Jacqueline J; Hakimi, Mohammad

2016-12-06

Breast milk is well recognised as the best food source for infants. The impact of antenatal breastfeeding (BF) education on the duration of BF has not been evaluated. To assess the effectiveness of antenatal breastfeeding (BF) education for increasing BF initiation and duration. We searched Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth's Trials Register on 1 March 2016, CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library, 2016, Issue 3), MEDLINE (1966 to 1 March 2016) and Scopus (January 1985 to 1 March 2016). We contacted experts and searched reference lists of retrieved articles. All identified published, unpublished and ongoing randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effect of formal antenatal BF education or comparing two different methods of formal antenatal BF education, on the duration of BF. We included RCTs that only included antenatal interventions and excluded those that combined antenatal and intrapartum or postpartum BF education components. Cluster-randomised trials were included in this review. Quasi-randomised trials were not eligible for inclusion. We assessed all potential studies identified as a result of the search strategy. Two review authors extracted data from each included study using the agreed form and assessed risk of bias. We resolved discrepancies through discussion. We assessed the quality of the evidence using the GRADE approach. This review update includes 24 studies (10,056 women). Twenty studies (9789 women) contribute data to analyses. Most studies took place in high-income countries such as the USA, UK, Canada and Australia. In the first five comparisons, we display the included trials according to type of intervention without pooling data. For the 'Summary of findings' we pooled data for a summary effect.Five included studies were cluster-randomised trials: all of these adjusted data and reported adjustments as odds ratios (OR). We have analysed the data using the generic inverse variance method and presented results as odds ratios, because we were unable to derive a cluster-adjusted risk ratio from the published cluster-trial. We acknowledge that the use of odds ratio prevents the pooling of these cluster trials in our main analyses. One method of BF education with standard (routine) careThere were no group differences for duration of any BF in days or weeks. There was no evidence that interventions improved the proportion of women with any BF or exclusive BF at three or six months. Single trials of different interventions were unable to show that education improved initiation of BF, apart from one small trial at high risk of attrition bias. Many trial results marginally favoured the intervention but had wide confidence intervals crossing the line of no effect. BF complications such as mastitis and other BF problems were similar in treatment arms in single trials reporting these outcomes. Multiple methods of BF education versus standard careFor all trials included in this comparison we have presented the cluster-adjusted odds ratios as reported in trial publications. One three-arm study found the intervention of BF booklet plus video plus Lactation Consultant versus standard care improved the proportion of women exclusively BF at three months (OR 2.60, 95% CI 1.25 to 5.40; women = 159) and marginally at six months (OR 2.40, 95% CI 1.00 to 5.76; women = 175). For the same trial, an intervention arm without a lactation consultant but with the BF booklet and video did not have the same effect on proportion of women exclusively BF at three months (OR 1.80, 95% CI 0.80 to 4.05; women = 159) or six months (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.30 to 2.70; women = 184). One study compared monthly BF sessions and weekly cell phone message versus standard care and reported improvements in the proportion of women exclusively BF at both three and six months (three months OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.10 to 2.95; women = 390; six months OR 2.40, 95% CI 1.40 to 4.11; women = 390). One study found monthly BF sessions and weekly cell phone messages improved initiation of BF over standard care (OR 2.61, 95% CI 1.61 to 4.24; women = 380). BF education session versus standard care, pooled analyses for 'Summary of findings' (SoF)This comparison does not include cluster-randomised trials reporting adjusted odds ratios. We did not downgrade any evidence for trials' lack of blinding; no trial had adequate blinding of staff and participants. The SoF table presents risk ratios for all outcomes analysed. For proportion of women exclusively BF there is no evidence that antenatal BF education improved BF at three months (RR 1.06, 95% CI 0.90 to 1.25; women = 822; studies = 3; moderate quality evidence) or at six months (RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.87 to 1.30; women = 2161; studies = 4; moderate quality evidence). For proportion of women with any BF there were no group differences in BF at three (average RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.82 to 1.18; women = 654; studies = 2; I² = 60%; low-quality evidence) or six months (average RR 1.05, 95% CI 0.90 to 1.23; women = 1636; studies = 4; I² = 61%; high-quality evidence). There was no evidence that antenatal BF education could improve initiation of BF (average RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.09; women = 3505; studies = 8; I² = 69%; high-quality evidence). Where we downgraded evidence this was due to small sample size or wide confidence intervals crossing the line of no effect, or both.There was insufficient data for subgroup analysis of mother's occupation or education. There was no conclusive evidence supporting any antenatal BF education for improving initiation of BF, proportion of women giving any BF or exclusively BF at three or six months or the duration of BF. There is an urgent need to conduct a high-quality, randomised controlled study to evaluate the effectiveness and adverse effects of antenatal BF education, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Evidence in this review is primarily relevant to high-income settings.

Weakly nucleophilic potassium aryltrifluoroborates in palladium-catalyzed Suzuki-Miyaura reactions: relative reactivity of K[4-RC6F4BF3] and the role of silver-assistance in acceleration of transmetallation.

PubMed

Bardin, Vadim V; Shabalin, Anton Yu; Adonin, Nicolay Yu

2015-01-01

Small differences in the reactivity of weakly nucleophilic potassium aryltrifluoroborates are revealed in the silver-assisted Pd-catalyzed cross-coupling of K[4-RC6F4BF3] (R = H, Bu, MeO, EtO, PrO, iPrO, BuO, t-BuO, CH2=CHCH2O, PhCH2O, PhCH2CH2O, PhO, F, pyrazol-1-yl, pyrrol-1-yl, and indol-1-yl) with ArX (4-BrC6H4CH3, 4-IC6H4F and 3-IC6H4F). An assumed role of silver(I) compounds Ag m Y (Y = O, NO3, SO4, BF4, F) consists in polarization of the Pd-X bond in neutral complex ArPdL n X with the generation of the related transition state or formation of [ArPdL n ][XAg m Y] with a highly electrophilic cation and subsequent transmetallation with the weakly nucleophilic borate. Efficiency of Ag m Y as a polarizing agent decreases in order Ag2O > AgNO3 ≈ Ag2SO4 > Ag[BF4] > AgF. No clear correlation between the reactivity of K[4-RC6F4BF3] and substituent electron parameters, σI and σR°, of the aryl group 4-RC6F4 was found.

Weakly nucleophilic potassium aryltrifluoroborates in palladium-catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura reactions: relative reactivity of K[4-RC6F4BF3] and the role of silver-assistance in acceleration of transmetallation

PubMed Central

Bardin, Vadim V; Shabalin, Anton Yu

2015-01-01

Summary Small differences in the reactivity of weakly nucleophilic potassium aryltrifluoroborates are revealed in the silver-assisted Pd-catalyzed cross-coupling of K[4-RC6F4BF3] (R = H, Bu, MeO, EtO, PrO, iPrO, BuO, t-BuO, CH2=CHCH2O, PhCH2O, PhCH2CH2O, PhO, F, pyrazol-1-yl, pyrrol-1-yl, and indol-1-yl) with ArX (4-BrC6H4CH3, 4-IC6H4F and 3-IC6H4F). An assumed role of silver(I) compounds AgmY (Y = O, NO3, SO4, BF4, F) consists in polarization of the Pd–X bond in neutral complex ArPdLnX with the generation of the related transition state or formation of [ArPdLn][XAgmY] with a highly electrophilic cation and subsequent transmetallation with the weakly nucleophilic borate. Efficiency of AgmY as a polarizing agent decreases in order Ag2O > AgNO3 ≈ Ag2SO4 > Ag[BF4] > AgF. No clear correlation between the reactivity of K[4-RC6F4BF3] and substituent electron parameters, σI and σR°, of the aryl group 4-RC6F4 was found. PMID:26124862

Different effects of propofol and isoflurane on cochlear blood flow and hearing function in Guinea pigs.

PubMed

Xiao, Ying; Wen, Jian; Bai, Yanxia; Duan, Na; Jing, G X

2014-01-01

To investigate the effects of isoflurane and propofol on mean arterial pressure (MAP), cochlear blood flow (CoBF), distortion-product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE), and the ultrastructure of outer hair cells (OHCs) in guinea pig cochleae. Forty-eight male guinea pigs were randomly assigned to one of six treatment groups. Groups 1 to 3 were infused (i.v.) with a loading dose of propofol (5 mg/kg) for 5 min and three maintenance doses (10, 20, or 40 mg kg-1·h-1, respectively) for 115 min. Groups 4 to 6 were inhaled with isoflurane at concentrations of 1.15 vol%, 2.30 vol% or 3.45 vol% respectively for 120 min. CoBF and MAP were recorded prior to and at 5 min intervals during drug administration. DPOAE was measured before, immediately after, and 1 h after administration. Following the final DPOAE test, cochleae were examined using scanning electron microscopy. Propofol treatment reduced MAP in a dose-dependent manner. CoBF and DPOAE showed increases at propofol maintenance doses of 10 and 20 mg kg-1·h-1. Inhalation of isoflurane at concentrations of 2.30 vol% and 3.45 vol% reduced MAP and CoBF. DPOAE amplitude increased following inhalation of 1.15 vol% isoflurane, but decreased following inhalations of 2.30 vol% and 3.45 vol%. Cochlear structure was changed following inhalation of either 2.30 vol% or 3.45 vol% isoflurane. Propofol could decrease MAP and increase both CoBF and DPOAE without affecting OHC structure. Inhalation of isoflurane at concentrations >2.30 vol% decreased CoBF and DPOAE, and produced injury to OHCs.

Nicotine administration in the wake-promoting basal forebrain attenuates sleep-promoting effects of alcohol.

PubMed

Sharma, Rishi; Lodhi, Shafi; Sahota, Pradeep; Thakkar, Mahesh M

2015-10-01

Nicotine and alcohol co-abuse is highly prevalent, although the underlying causes are unclear. It has been suggested that nicotine enhances pleasurable effects of alcohol while reducing aversive effects. Recently, we reported that nicotine acts via the basal forebrain (BF) to activate nucleus accumbens and increase alcohol consumption. Does nicotine suppress alcohol-induced aversive effects via the BF? We hypothesized that nicotine may act via the BF to suppress sleep-promoting effects of alcohol. To test this hypothesis, adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were implanted with sleep-recording electrodes and bilateral guides targeted toward the BF. Nicotine (75 pmol/500 nL/side) or artificial cerebrospinal fluid (ACSF; 500 nL/side) was microinjected into the BF followed by intragastric alcohol (ACSF + EtOH and NiC + EtOH groups; 3 g/kg) or water (NiC + W and ACSF + W groups; 10 mL/kg) administration. On completion, rats were killed and processed to localize injection sites in the BF. The statistical analysis revealed a significant effect of treatment on sleep-wakefulness. While rats exposed to alcohol (ACSF + EtOH) displayed strong sleep promotion, nicotine pre-treatment in the BF (NiC + EtOH) attenuated alcohol-induced sleep and normalized sleep-wakefulness. These results suggest that nicotine acts via the BF to suppress the aversive, sleep-promoting effects of alcohol, further supporting the role of BF in alcohol-nicotine co-use. © 2015 International Society for Neurochemistry.

Spin-crossover in [Fe(3-bpp)2][BF4]2 in different solvents--a dramatic stabilisation of the low-spin state in water.

PubMed

Barrett, Simon A; Kilner, Colin A; Halcrow, Malcolm A

2011-12-07

The temperature of spin-crossover in [Fe(3-bpp)(2)][BF(4)](2) (3-bpp = 2,6-di{pyrazol-3-yl}pyridine) tends to increase in associating solvents. In particular, T(½) shifts to 60-70 K higher temperature in water compared to organic solvents.

Body image dissatisfaction and anthropometric indicators in male children and adolescents.

PubMed

Ferrari, E P; Minatto, G; Berria, J; Silva, S F Dos S; Fidelix, Y L; Ribeiro, R R; Santos, K D; Petroski, E L

2015-10-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between body image dissatisfaction and body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage (BF%) and to identify which of these anthropometric indicators are more strongly associated, and finally to estimate the prevalence of overweight and high body adiposity in male children and adolescents, according to maturational stages. Overall, 1499 students aged from 7 to 17 years from Cascavel, PR, Brazil, were evaluated. Body image was self-rated through the body silhouette scale. Body weight, height and triceps and subscapular skinfolds were measured and BMI and BF% were calculated. Sexual maturity was self-assessed by the development of pubic hair. Data analysis used the Fisher exact test, the χ(2)-test and multinomial logistic regression. Body image dissatisfaction because of excess weight was associated with BMI and BF%, whereas in prepubertal students, this association did not remain in the adjusted analysis. In pubescent students, both BMI (odds ratio (OR)=5.25, confidence interval (CI) 95%=3.06-9.01) and BF% (OR=2.42, CI 95%=1.60-3.66), and in post-pubescent students for BMI (OR=3.77, CI 95%=1.33-10.70), the association remained. Body image dissatisfaction because of thinness was associated only with BF% in pubescent (OR=0.50, CI 95%= 0.33-0.75) and post-pubescent students (OR=0.38, CI 95%= 0.16-0.94). Body image dissatisfaction was associated with BMI and BF%, especially in pubescent and post-pubescent students.

Small-scale dust structures in Halley's coma. II. Disintegration of large dust bodies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oberc, P.

2004-10-01

Small-scale dust structures, SDSs, altogether ˜35 events with extent ˜30-220 km, have been recognized owing to electric field records, mostly near the closest approach of Vega-2 to Halley's nucleus. Several (8-9) morphological forms of SDS have been identified, and all they make one family. Among the family members, the key form (with respect to which, all other forms can be regarded as degenerate) is a sequence of 3-5 dust clouds. The morphological forms represent various Vega-2 passes through SDSs at different stages of development. SDSs observable as the key form consisted of several fairly regularly spaced dust subpopulations, whose plane of symmetry was parallel to the comet orbit plane. That regularity together with specific features of morphological forms strongly constrain disintegration scenarios and dynamics of fragments, and allow to draw a number of conclusions, the main of which are: SDS parent bodies were ice-free dust aggregates lifted from the nucleus near the comet perihelion, whose masses were in the range ˜0.1-1 of the biggest emitted mass (mass of a body accelerated to the escape velocity, i.e., ˜300-1500 kg); the disintegration scenario comprised a few steps, and the first-step disintegration consisted mainly in consecutive detachments of biggest first-step fragments (BF-SFs) from the parent body; a SDS observable as the key form included the dust minitail of parent body and a few BF-SF minitails, the former one being longer than the latter ones; SDS parent bodies had a fractal-like internal structure, and the BF-SF mass was a few percent of the parent body mass; the thermal conductivity of SDS parent body was less than ˜0.4 W m -1 K -1 or so, while the latent heat of gluing organics was roughly 80 kJ mol -1; the disintegration mechanism was a combination of sintering and sublimation of organics. The multistep disintegration of SDS parent bodies can be reconciled with the basically one-step disintegration of aggregates responsible for the dust boundary (Oberc, P., Icarus 1996, 124, 195-208). The fractal-like structure and the relation between BF-SF mass and parent body mass are in agreement with predictions from the Weidenschilling model of comet formation. Large ice-free dust bodies, in particular SDS parent bodies, can be identified with refractory boulders postulated by some comet nucleus models.

An R-matrix study of electron induced processes in BF3 plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gupta, Dhanoj; Chakrabarti, Kalyan; Yoon, Jung-Sik; Song, Mi-Young

2017-12-01

An R-matrix formalism is used to study electron collision with the BF3 molecule using Quantemol-N, a computational system for electron molecule collisions which uses the molecular R-matrix method. Several target models are tested for BF3 in its equilibrium geometry, and the results are presented for the best model. Scattering calculations are then performed to yield resonance parameters, elastic, differential, excitation, and momentum transfer cross sections. The results for all the cross sections are compared with the experimental and theoretical data, and a good agreement is obtained. The resonances have been detected at 3.79 and 13.58 eV, with the ionization threshold being 15.7 eV. We have also estimated the absolute dissociative electron attachment (DEA) cross section for the F- ion production from BF3, which is a maiden attempt. The peak of the DEA is at around 13.5 eV, which is well supported by the resonance detected at 13.58 eV. The cross sections reported here find a variety of applications in the plasma technology.

Design of Explosion Blast Containment Vessels for Explosive Ordnance Disposal Units

DTIC Science & Technology

1975-06-01

gages installed on Vessels 1 and 3 were Type EP-08-250BF-350. ,hec: gages, which are special , annealed constantan foil, have a quoted strain range of...either 32 or 24 Vdc from automotive-type wet cell batteries, although large dry cells may be used with slightly reduced stability. The bridge output is...RST-CYCLE VESEL RESPONSE I. -- ~-~- --. - - ,--~ -- --- -~ - - -- ~ ~ -- 72 TABLE 10. DESCRIPTION OF BLACK POWDER SHOTS FIRED IN 3.0-FT VESSEL Shot

Effect of γ-Al2O3/water nanofluid on the thermal performance of shell and coil heat exchanger with different coil torsions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elshazly, K. M.; Sakr, R. Y.; Ali, R. K.; Salem, M. R.

2017-06-01

This work investigated experimentally the thermal performance of shell and coil heat exchanger with different coil torsions (λ) for γ-Al2O3/water nanofluid flow. Five helically coiled tube (HCT) with 0.0442 ≤ λ ≤ 0.1348 were tested within turbulent flow regime. The average size of γ-Al2O3 particles is 40 nm and volume concentration (φ) is varied from 0 to 2%. Results showed that reducing coil torsion enhances the heat transfer rate and increases HCT-friction factor (fc). Also, it is noticed that HCT average Nusselt number (Nut) and fc of nanofluids increase with increasing γ-Al2O3 volume concentration. The thermal performance index, TPI = (ht,nf/ht,bf)/(ΔPc,nf/ΔPc,bf). increases with increasing nanoparticles concentration, coil torsion, HCT-side inlet temperature and nanofluid flow rate. Over the studied range of HCT-Reynolds number, the average value of TPI is of 1.34 and 2.24 at φ = 0.5% and φ = 2%, respectively. The average value of TPI is of 1.64 at λ = 0.0442 while its average value at λ = 0.1348 is of 2.01. One of the main contributions is to provide heat equipments designers with Nut and fc correlations for practical configurations shell and coil heat exchangers with a wide range of nanofluid concentration.

Studies on the baking properties of non-wheat flours--I. Breadfruit (Artocarpus artilis).

PubMed

Esuoso, K O; Bamiro, F O

1995-08-01

The possibility of producing bread from wheat (WF)/Breadfruit (BF), composite flour has been examined. Wheat flour was supplemented with up to 50% breadfruit flour. Chemical analysis of the breadfruit flour indicated a high starch content (80.9 +/- 0.9%), a fairly high crude fibre and ash contents (1.6 +/- 0.3; 4.2 +/- 0.3%) respectively and a low protein content (4.0 +/- 0.5%). Brabender amylograph pasting viscosity of the various flour and flour blends indicated that apart from the 100% WF, 10% BF/WF blends recorded the best pasting characteristics in terms of the starch stability, gelatinization index and set back values. While the 100% BF exhibited the poorest pasting characteristics. Physical characteristics indicated that only 100% WF and 10% BF/WF were free of cracks and crumbliness, 20% and 30% BF/WF had slight cracks, while others are dense and highly cracked. This was reflected on the panellist judgment during sensory evaluation. There was no significant difference at P < 0.05 between the control (100% WF) and the composite bread samples up to 30% level of breadfruit flour. Others differed significantly.

Oxygen evolution from BF3/MnO4-.

PubMed

Yiu, Shek-Man; Man, Wai-Lun; Wang, Xin; Lam, William W Y; Ng, Siu-Mui; Kwong, Hoi-Ki; Lau, Kai-Chung; Lau, Tai-Chu

2011-04-14

MnO(4)(-) is activated by BF(3) to undergo intramolecular coupling of two oxo ligands to generate O(2). DFT calculations suggest that there should be a spin intercrossing between the singlet and triplet potential energy surfaces on going from the active intermediate [MnO(2)(OBF(3))(2)](-) to the O···O coupling transition state.

Butanolic fraction from Cuphea carthagenensis Jacq McBride relaxes rat thoracic aorta through endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent mechanisms.

PubMed

Schuldt, E Z; Ckless, K; Simas, M E; Farias, M R; Ribeiro-Do-Valle, R M

2000-02-01

This study evaluated the vasorelaxant properties of the crude hydroalcoholic extract (CE) of Cuphea carthagenensis, as well as its butanolic (BF) and ethyl acetate (EA) fractions, in rings of rat thoracic aorta. In endothelium-intact rings contracted with phenylephrine (30-100 nM), cumulative additions of increasing concentrations of CE, BF, and EA of C. carthagenensis (0.1 microg/ml-3 mg/ml) caused graded relaxations, with BF displaying the lowest median inhibitory concentration (IC5; mean, 6.8 microg/ml; 95% confidence limits, 3.3-14.2). BF-induced relaxations of endothelium-intact rings were virtually abolished by prior incubation with the NO-synthase inhibitor N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine (L-NOARG; 10 or 30 microM), and were markedly reduced after guanylate cyclase inhibition with either methylene blue (10 microM) or ODQ (1 microM; 1H[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one). The inhibition of BF-induced relaxation by L-NOARG was prevented to a large extent by simultaneous incubation with L-arginine (1 mM). In endothelium-denuded rings contracted with phenylephrine, CE and BF caused graded relaxations only at doses >100 microg/ml, whereas the NO-donors SNAP (S-nitroso-N-acetyl-penicillamine) and SIN-1 (3-morpholino-sydnonimine) induced full relaxation at 1 microM. BF (100 microg/ml), which caused little relaxation per se of endothelium-denuded rings, potentiated the relaxant effects of SNAP and even more so of SIN-1 (which, unlike SNAP, also releases superoxide anion O2- in addition to NO), in a manner qualitatively similar to that seen with SOD (superoxide dismutase) against SIN-1. These data indicate that the BF of C. carthagenensis induces relaxation of the rat thoracic aorta by two mechanisms: (a) an endothelium-dependent component of action, which clearly depends on the NO/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) pathway and can be attributed, at least in part, to free radical-scavenging properties; and (b) an endothelium-independent component of action, which becomes evident at higher doses (> or = 100 microg/ml) and remains to be further characterized. These results suggest that this native South American plant might be beneficial in cardiovascular disease.

A two-stage combined trickle bed reactor/biofilter for treatment of styrene/acetone vapor mixtures.

PubMed

Vanek, Tomas; Halecky, Martin; Paca, Jan; Zapotocky, Lubos; Gelbicova, Tereza; Vadkertiova, Renata; Kozliak, Evguenii; Jones, Kim

2015-01-01

Performance of a two-stage biofiltration system was investigated for removal of styrene-acetone mixtures. High steady-state acetone loadings (above C(in)(Ac) = 0.5 g.m(-3) corresponding to the loadings > 34.5 g.m(-3).h(-1)) resulted in a significant inhibition of the system's performance in both acetone and styrene removal. This inhibition was shown to result from the acetone accumulation within the upstream trickle-bed bioreactor (TBR) circulating mineral medium, which was observed by direct chromatographic measurements. Placing a biofilter (BF) downstream to this TBR overcomes the inhibition as long as the biofilter has a sufficient bed height. A different kind of inhibition of styrene biodegradation was observed within the biofilter at very high acetone loadings (above C(in)(Ac) = 1.1 g.m(-3) or 76 g.m(-3).h(-1) loading). In addition to steady-state measurements, dynamic tests confirmed that the reactor overloading can be readily overcome, once the accumulated acetone in the TBR fluids is degraded. No sizable metabolite accumulation in the medium was observed for either TBR or BF. Analyses of the biodegradation activities of microbial isolates from the biofilm corroborated the trends observed for the two-stage biofiltration system, particularly the occurrence of an inhibition threshold by excess acetone.

Skeletal muscle mass and body fat in relation to successful ageing of older adults: The multi-national MEDIS study.

PubMed

Tyrovolas, Stefanos; Haro, Josep-Maria; Mariolis, Anargiros; Piscopo, Suzanne; Valacchi, Giuseppe; Bountziouka, Vassiliki; Anastasiou, Foteini; Zeimbekis, Akis; Tyrovola, Dimitra; Foscolou, Alexandra; Gotsis, Efthimios; Metallinos, George; Tur, Josep-Antoni; Matalas, Antonia; Lionis, Christos; Polychronopoulos, Evangelos; Panagiotakos, Demosthenes

2016-01-01

The determinants that promote successful ageing still remain unknown. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the role of skeletal muscle mass and body fat percentage (BF%), in the level of successful ageing. during 2005-2011, 2663 older (aged 65-100 years) from 21 Mediterranean islands and the rural Mani region (Peloponnesus) of Greece were voluntarily enrolled in the study. Appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM), skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) and BF% were calculated using population formulas. Dietary habits, energy intake, expenditure and energy balance were derived throughout standard procedures. A successful ageing index ranging from 0 to 10 was used. The mean ASM mass was 24±6.0kg, the SMI was 0.84±0.21 and the BF% was 44%. Females had lower SMI and higher BF% in comparison with males, respectively [(SMI: 0.66±0.09 vs. 1.03±0.11; BF%: 51% vs. 34%, (p<0.001)]. High successful agers had better rates in ASM (p=0.01), SMI (p<0.001) and BF% (p<0.001), compared with the medium and low successful ones. Changes in SMI [b-coefficient (95% CI):2.14 (1.57 to 2.71)] were positively associated with successful ageing, while changes in BF% [b-coefficient (95% CI): -0.04 (-0.05 to -0.03)] were inversely associated with successful ageing. Results from sensitivity analysis showed that the effects of variations on body composition were consistent, less pronounced in the positive energy balance group and more pronounced among the oldest old. Body composition changes seem to be associated with lower quality of life in the older adults, as measured through successful ageing. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Asymmetric catalytic hydrogenation. Design of new Ru catalysts and chiral ligands: from laboratory to industrial applications.

PubMed

Genet, Jean-Pierre

2003-12-01

This Account covers the design of Ru catalysts and ligands. Two classes of chiral phosphine ligands are prepared: the electron-rich trans-2,4-substituted phosphetanes, readily available from optically pure 1,3-diol cyclic sulfates, and atropoisomeric ligands (SYNPHOS, MeO-NAPhePHOS, bearing heterotopic biaryl moieties, and a chiral water-soluble diguanidinium binaphthyl diphosphine, Digm-BINAP). Applications of these ligands to rhodium- and ruthenium-mediated hydrogenation of ketones and olefins have been reported with high enantioselectivities. The recognition abilities of Ru-SYNPHOS for a wide range of ketones is superior to those observed with BINAP, MeO-NAPhePHOS, and MeO-BIPHEP. Several biologically active compounds have been prepared through dynamic kinetic resolution. This work gives access to a number of highly active catalysts of the type [Ru(biphosphane)(H)(eta(6)-cot)]BF(4). These catalysts have demonstrated their utility in the enantioselective hydrogenation of the tetrasubstituted cyclopentenone "dehydrodione", which leads to the commercially important perfume component Paradisone (Firmenich).

Enhanced susceptibility to acute pneumococcal otitis media in mice deficient in complement C1qa, factor B, and factor B/C2.

PubMed

Tong, Hua Hua; Li, Yong Xing; Stahl, Gregory L; Thurman, Joshua M

2010-03-01

To define the roles of specific complement activation pathways in host defense against Streptococcus pneumoniae in acute otitis media (AOM), we investigated the susceptibility to AOM in mice deficient in complement factor B and C2 (Bf/C2(-/)(-)), C1qa (C1qa(-/)(-)), and factor B (Bf(-)(/)(-)). Bacterial titers of both S. pneumoniae serotype 6A and 14 in the middle ear lavage fluid samples from Bf/C2(-/)(-), Bf(-)(/)(-), and C1qa(-/)(-) mice were significantly higher than in samples from wild-type mice 24 h after transtympanical infection (P < 0.05) and remained persistently higher in samples from Bf/C2(-/)(-) mice than in samples from wild-type mice. Bacteremia occurred in Bf/C2(-/)(-), Bf(-)(/)(-), and C1qa(-/)(-) mice infected with both strains, but not in wild-type mice. Recruitment of inflammatory cells was paralleled by enhanced production of inflammatory mediators in the middle ear lavage samples from Bf/C2(-/)(-) mice. C3b deposition on both strains was greatest for sera obtained from wild-type mice, followed by C1qa(-)(/)(-) and Bf(-)(/)(-) mice, and least for Bf/C2(-)(/)(-) mice. Opsonophagocytosis and whole-blood killing capacity of both strains were significantly decreased in the presence of sera or whole blood from complement-deficient mice compared to wild-type mice. These findings indicate that both the classical and alternative complement pathways are critical for middle ear immune defense against S. pneumoniae. The reduced capacity of complement-mediated opsonization and phagocytosis in the complement-deficient mice appears to be responsible for the impaired clearance of S. pneumoniae from the middle ear and dissemination to the bloodstream during AOM.

A model of anuran auditory periphery reveals frequency-dependent adaptation to be a contributing mechanism for two-tone suppression and amplitude modulation coding.

PubMed

Wotton, J M; Ferragamo, M J

2011-10-01

Anuran auditory nerve fibers (ANF) tuned to low frequencies display unusual frequency-dependent adaptation which results in a more phasic response to signals above best frequency (BF) and a more tonic response to signals below. A network model of the first two layers of the anuran auditory system was used to test the contribution of this dynamic peripheral adaptation on two-tone suppression and amplitude modulation (AM) tuning. The model included a peripheral sandwich component, leaky-integrate-and-fire cells and adaptation was implemented by means of a non-linear increase in threshold weighted by the signal frequency. The results of simulations showed that frequency-dependent adaptation was both necessary and sufficient to produce high-frequency-side two-tone suppression for the ANF and cells of the dorsal medullary nucleus (DMN). It seems likely that both suppression and this dynamic adaptation share a common mechanism. The response of ANFs to AM signals was influenced by adaptation and carrier frequency. Vector strength synchronization to an AM signal improved with increased adaptation. The spike rate response to a carrier at BF was the expected flat function with AM rate. However, for non-BF carrier frequencies the response showed a weak band-pass pattern due to the influence of signal sidebands and adaptation. The DMN received inputs from three ANFs and when the frequency tuning of inputs was near the carrier, then the rate response was a low-pass or all-pass shape. When most of the inputs were biased above or below the carrier, then band-pass responses were observed. Frequency-dependent adaptation enhanced the band-pass tuning for AM rate, particularly when the response of the inputs was predominantly phasic for a given carrier. Different combinations of inputs can therefore bias a DMN cell to be especially well suited to detect specific ranges of AM rates for a particular carrier frequency. Such selection of inputs would clearly be advantageous to the frog in recognizing distinct spectral and temporal parameters in communication calls. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of nifedipine on choroidal blood flow regulation during isometric exercise.

PubMed

Schmidl, Doreen; Prinz, Ana; Kolodjaschna, Julia; Polska, Elzbieta; Luksch, Alexandra; Fuchsjager-Mayrl, Gabriele; Garhofer, Gerhard; Schmetterer, Leopold

2012-01-25

To determine whether nifedipine, an L-type calcium channel blocker, alters choroidal blood flow (ChBF) regulation during isometric exercise in healthy subjects. The study was carried out in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-masked, two-way crossover design. Fifteen healthy male subjects were randomly assigned to receive either placebo or nifedipine on two different study days. Subfoveal ChBF was measured with laser Doppler flowmetry while the study participants performed isometric exercise (squatting). This was performed before drug administration and during infusion of nifedipine and placebo, respectively. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and intraocular pressure (IOP) were measured noninvasively, and ocular perfusion pressure (OPP) was calculated as ⅔ MAP-IOP. MAP and OPP increased significantly during all squatting periods (P < 0.01). The increase in ChBF was less pronounced than the increase in OPP during isometric exercise. Nifedipine did not alter the OPP increase in response to isometric exercise, but it significantly augmented the exercise-induced increase in ChBF (P < 0.001 vs. placebo). Although ChBF increased by a maximum of 14.2% ± 9.2% during the squatting period when placebo was administered, the maximum increase during administration of nifedipine was 23.2% ± 7.2%. In conclusion, the data of the present study suggest that nifedipine augments the ChBF response to an experimental increase in OPP. In addition, it confirms that the choroidal vasculature has a significant regulatory capacity over wide ranges of OPPs during isometric exercise. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00280462.).

Mirror therapy combined with biofeedback functional electrical stimulation for motor recovery of upper extremities after stroke: a pilot randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Kim, Jung Hee; Lee, Byoung-Hee

2015-06-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of mirror therapy in combination with biofeedback functional electrical stimulation (BF-FES) on motor recovery of the upper extremities after stroke. Twenty-nine patients who suffered a stroke > 6 months prior participated in this study and were randomly allocated to three groups. The BF-FES + mirror therapy and FES + mirror therapy groups practiced training for 5 × 30 min sessions over a 4-week period. The control group received a conventional physical therapy program. The following clinical tools were used to assess motor recovery of the upper extremities: electrical muscle tester, electrogoniometer, dual-inclinometer, electrodynamometer, the Box and Block Test (BBT) and Jabsen Taylor Hand Function Test (JHFT), the Functional Independence Measure, the Modified Ashworth Scale, and the Stroke Specific Quality of Life (SSQOL) assessment. The BF-FES + mirror therapy group showed significant improvement in wrist extension as revealed by the Manual Muscle Test and Range of Motion (p < 0.05). The BF-FES + mirror therapy group showed significant improvement in the BBT, JTHT, and SSQOL compared with the FES + mirror therapy group and control group (p < 0.05). We found that BF-FES + mirror therapy induced motor recovery and improved quality of life. These results suggest that mirror therapy, in combination with BF-FES, is feasible and effective for motor recovery of the upper extremities after stroke. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Studies of a series of [Ni(P(R)2N(Ph)2)2(CH3CN)]2+ complexes as electrocatalysts for H2 production: substituent variation at the phosphorus atom of the P2N2 ligand.

PubMed

Kilgore, Uriah J; Stewart, Michael P; Helm, Monte L; Dougherty, William G; Kassel, W Scott; DuBois, Mary Rakowski; DuBois, Daniel L; Bullock, R Morris

2011-11-07

A series of [Ni(P(R)(2)N(Ph)(2))(2)(CH(3)CN)](BF(4))(2) complexes containing the cyclic diphosphine ligands [P(R)(2)N(Ph)(2) = 1,5-diaza-3,7-diphosphacyclooctane; R = benzyl (Bn), n-butyl (n-Bu), 2-phenylethyl (PE), 2,4,4-trimethylpentyl (TP), and cyclohexyl (Cy)] have been synthesized and characterized. X-ray diffraction studies reveal that the cations of [Ni(P(Bn)(2)N(Ph)(2))(2)(CH(3)CN)](BF(4))(2) and [Ni(P(n-Bu)(2)N(Ph)(2))(2)(CH(3)CN)](BF(4))(2) have distorted trigonal bipyramidal geometries. The Ni(0) complex [Ni(P(Bn)(2)N(Ph)(2))(2)] was also synthesized and characterized by X-ray diffraction studies and shown to have a distorted tetrahedral structure. These complexes, with the exception of [Ni(P(Cy)(2)N(Ph)(2))(2)(CH(3)CN)](BF(4))(2), all exhibit reversible electron transfer processes for both the Ni(II/I) and Ni(I/0) couples and are electrocatalysts for the production of H(2) in acidic acetonitrile solutions. The heterolytic cleavage of H(2) by [Ni(P(R)(2)N(Ph)(2))(2)(CH(3)CN)](BF(4))(2) complexes in the presence of p-anisidine or p-bromoaniline was used to determine the hydride donor abilities of the corresponding [HNi(P(R)(2)N(Ph)(2))(2)](BF(4)) complexes. However, for the catalysts with the most bulky R groups, the turnover frequencies do not parallel the driving force for elimination of H(2), suggesting that steric interactions between the alkyl substituents on phosphorus and the nitrogen atom of the pendant amines play an important role in determining the overall catalytic rate. © 2011 American Chemical Society

Body composition changes in female bodybuilders during preparation for competition.

PubMed

van der Ploeg, G E; Brooks, A G; Withers, R T; Dollman, J; Leaney, F; Chatterton, B E

2001-04-01

To determine anthropometric and body composition changes in female bodybuilders during preparation for competition. There was an attempt to match subjects in the control and experimental groups for height and percentage body fat (%BF) for the initial test of this longitudinal study. Five competitive bodybuilders (-X +/- s.d.: 35.3 +/- 5.7 y; 167.3 +/- 3.7 cm; 66.38 +/- 6.30 kg; 18.3 +/- 3.5 %BF) and five athletic females (-X +/- s.d.: 30.9 +/- 13.0 y; 166.9 +/- 3.9 cm; 55.94 +/- 3.59 kg; 19.1 +/- 3.3 %BF) were recruited from advertisements in a bodybuilding newsletter and placed on sports centre noticeboards. The following measurements were conducted 12 weeks, 6 weeks and 3-5 d before the bodybuilders' competitions: anthropometric profile, body density by underwater weighing, total body water via deuterium dilution and bone mineral mass from a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan. A combination of the last three measurements enabled the %BF to the determined by a four compartment model. A significant (P < or = 0.001) 5.80 kg body mass loss by the bodybuilders as they prepared for competition was primarily due to a reduction in fat mass (FM; -4.42 kg; 76.2%) as opposed to fat-free mass (FFM; -1.38 kg; 23.8%). The decreases in body mass and FM over the final 6 weeks were greater than those over the first 6 weeks. Their %BF decreased (P < 0.001) from 18.3 to 12.7, whereas the values for the control group remained essentially unchanged at 19.1-19.6 %BF. These body composition changes by the bodybuilders were accompanied by a significant decline (P < 0.001) of 25.5 mm (76.3-50.8 mm) in the sum of eight skinfold thicknesses (triceps + subscapular + biceps + iliac crest + supraspinale + abdominal + front thigh + medial calf). Although the bodybuilders presented with low %BFs at the start of the experiment, they still significantly decreased their body mass during the 12 week preparation for competition and most of this loss was due to a reduction in FM as opposed to FFM.

[Breastfeeding prevalence during the first year of life in Aragon. CALINA study].

PubMed

Cuadrón Andrés, L; Samper Villagrasa, M P; Álvarez Sauras, M L; Lasarte Velillas, J J; Rodríguez Martínez, G

2013-11-01

To study the current prevalence of breastfeeding (BF) in Aragon (Spain) during the first 12 months of life, and analyse its demographic, perinatal and social influential factors. Obstetric, perinatal and feeding aspects were evaluated in a longitudinal and observational study, in a representative cohort of infant population from Aragon born between March 2009 to March 2010, controlled until 12 months of age (N=1.602). Exclusive or predominant BF was more frequent than the rest of feeding modalities during the first 4 months of life. Maintenance prevalence of any BF modality was 82.5% at 1(st) month of age, 71.8% at 3(rd), 54.3% at 6(th), and 27.8% at 12 months of age. Maternal variables that were significantly associated with BF maintenance both at 1 and 6 months of age were: delivery modality (higher probability in case of vaginal delivery), academic level (higher probability if university studies), origin (higher probability in mothers from Africa), adiposity (higher probability of normal weight or overweight mothers compared with obese ones), and not to smoke during gestation. BF prevalence in Aragon (Spain) during the first 12 months of age is high and has increased compared with previous data. BF continues in more than half of infants at six months and in a quarter of infants at 12 months of age. Maternal factors that significantly influence BF initiation and maintenance are, delivery modality, academic level, origin (immigration), adiposity and smoking habit. Copyright © 2013 Asociación Española de Pediatría. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Similar Replicative Fitness Is Shared by the Subtype B and Unique BF Recombinant HIV-1 Isolates that Dominate the Epidemic in Argentina

PubMed Central

Rubio, Andrea E.; Abraha, Awet; Carpenter, Crystal A.; Troyer, Ryan M.; Reyes-Rodríguez, Ángel L.; Salomon, Horacio; Arts, Eric J.; Tebit, Denis M.

2014-01-01

The HIV-1 epidemic in South America is dominated by pure subtypes (mostly B and C) and more than 7 BF and BC recombinant forms. In Argentina, circulating recombinant forms (CRFs) comprised of subtypes B and F make up more than 50% of HIV infections. For this study, 28 HIV-1 primary isolates were obtained from patients in Buenos Aires, Argentina and initially classified into subtype B (n = 9, 32.1%), C (n = 1, 3.6%), and CRFs (n = 18, 64.3%) using partial pol and vpu-env sequences, which proved to be inconsistent and inaccurate for these phylogenetic analyses. Near full length genome sequences of these primary HIV-1 isolates revealed that nearly all intersubtype BF recombination sites were unique and countered previous “CRF” B/F classifications. The majority of these Argentinean HIV-1 isolates were CCR5-using but 4 had a dual/mixed tropism as predicted by both phenotypic and genotypic assays. Comparison of the replicative fitness of these BF primary HIV-1 isolates to circulating B, F, and C HIV-1 using pairwise competitions in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) indicated a similarity in fitness of these BF recombinants to subtypes B and F HIV-1 (of the same co-receptor usage) whereas subtype C HIV-1 was significantly less fit than all as previously reported. These results suggest that the multitude of BF HIV-1 strains present within the Argentinean population do not appear to have gained replicative fitness following recent B and F recombination events. PMID:24727861

Absence of morphotropic phase boundary effects in BiFeO3-PbTiO3 thin films grown via a chemical multilayer deposition method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gupta, Shashaank; Bhattacharjee, Shuvrajyoti; Pandey, Dhananjai; Bansal, Vipul; Bhargava, Suresh K.; Peng, Ju Lin; Garg, Ashish

2011-07-01

We report an unusual behavior observed in (BiFeO3)1- x -(PbTiO3) x (BF- xPT) thin films prepared using a multilayer chemical solution deposition method. Films of different compositions were grown by depositing several bilayers of BF and PT precursors of varying BF and PT layer thicknesses followed by heat treatment in air. X-ray diffraction showed that samples of all compositions show mixing of two compounds resulting in a single-phase mixture, also confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. In contrast to bulk compositions, samples show a monoclinic (MA-type) structure suggesting disappearance of the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) at x=0.30 as observed in the bulk. This is accompanied by the lack of any enhancement of the remanent polarization at the MPB, as shown by the ferroelectric measurements. Magnetic measurements showed an increase in the magnetization of the samples with increasing BF content. Significant magnetization in the samples indicates melting of spin spirals in the BF- xPT films, arising from a random distribution of iron atoms. Absence of Fe2+ ions was corroborated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements. The results illustrate that thin film processing methodology significantly changes the structural evolution, in contrast to predictions from the equilibrium phase diagram, besides modifying the functional characteristics of the BP- xPT system dramatically.

A new approach in the design of organic superconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamada, J.

2004-04-01

The preparation of charge-transfer (CT) salts of DODHT [(1,4-dioxane-2,3-diyldithio) dihydrotetrathia-fulvalene], BDH-TTP [2,5-bis(1,3-dithiolan-2-ylidene)-1,3,4,6-tetrathiapentalene] and BDA-TTP [2,5-bis(1,3-dithian-2-ylidene)-1,3,4,6-tetrathiapentalene] has been investigated to develop new organic superconductors. The DODHT and BDA-TTP donors give organic superconductors (DODHT){2}BF{4}\\cdot H{2}O and (BDA-TTP){2}X (X = GaCl{4} and FeCl{4}) under applied pressures, whereas (BDH-TTP)Br{0.88} and (BDA-TTF){2}X (X = BF{4}, BF{4}\\cdot H{2}O and ClO{4}) fail to exhibit superconductivity at ambient pressure. Key words. Organic superconductor π -electron donor σ -bond framework loose donor packing motif.

Comparison of body composition methods during weight loss in obese women using herbal formula.

PubMed

Kim, Ho-Jun; Gallagher, Dympna; Song, Mi-Yeon

2005-01-01

Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), a device that analyzes the current conduction differences between the fat and water components is widely used for reasons that include convenience of use, non-invasiveness, safety, and low cost. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) allows for the assessment of total body and regional lean and fat tissues and bone mineral content (BMC). The objective of this study was to compare body composition assessments by BIA and DXA before and after a 6-week herbal diet intervention program in 50 pre-menopausal women [mean +/- SD: age 30.58 +/- 6.15, body mass index (BMI) 31.72 +/- 3.78]. Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) was measured by BIA and anthropometry. Lean body mass (LBM), body fat (BF), BMC and percent body fat (%BF) were measured by BIA and DXA. Highly significant correlations were observed between BIA and DXA measurements for LBM, BF, BMC and %BF (r = 0.73, 0.93, 0.53, 0.79, respectively) before the intervention. Differences between BIA and DXA measurements were observed in LBM, BF, %BF and BMC before intervention (p < 0.01) where WHR by BIA was significantly higher compared to anthropometry before (p < 0.01) and after the intervention (p < 0.01). BIA underestimated LBM by 1.85 kg and overestimated BF by 2.54 kg compared to DXA before the intervention. Although BIA and DXA showed highly significant correlations for LBM, BF, BMC and %BF before the intervention, they did not produce statistically comparable results in pre-menopausal Korean women and therefore should not be used interchangeably when measuring body composition.

Physical activity, bowel function, and quality of life among rectal cancer survivors.

PubMed

Krouse, Robert S; Wendel, Christopher S; Garcia, David O; Grant, Marcia; Temple, Larissa K F; Going, Scott B; Hornbrook, Mark C; Bulkley, Joanna E; McMullen, Carmit K; Herrinton, Lisa J

2017-11-01

Physical activity (PA) is positively associated with numerous health benefits among cancer survivors. This study examined insufficiently investigated relationships among PA, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), and bowel function (BF) in rectal cancer survivors. RC survivors (n = 1063) ≥5 years from diagnosis in two Kaiser permanente regions were mailed a multidimensional survey to assess HRQOL and BF. PA was assessed by a modified Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire. PA minutes were categorized into weighted categories based on guidelines: (1) not active (zero PA minutes); (2) insufficiently active (1-149 PA minutes); (3) meeting guidelines (150-299 PA minutes); and (4) above guidelines (≥300 PA minutes). Relationships of PA with HRQOL and BF were evaluated using multiple linear regression, stratified by sex and ostomy status for BF. Types of PA identified as helpful for BF and symptoms addressed were summarized. Response rate was 60.5%. Of 557 participants, 40% met or exceeded PA guidelines, 34% were not active, and 26% were insufficiently active. Aerobic activities, specifically walking and cycling, were most commonly reported to help BF. Higher PA was associated with better psychological wellbeing and multiple SF12 scales, worse BF scores in men with ostomies, and better BF scores in women. Meeting or exceeding PA guidelines was associated with higher HRQOL. Although the BF findings are exploratory, they suggest women may benefit from increased PA, whereas men with ostomies may face challenges that require more study. Identifying PA strategies that will lead to improved patient compliance and benefit are needed.

A small molecule mitigates hearing loss in a mouse model of Usher syndrome III.

PubMed

Alagramam, Kumar N; Gopal, Suhasini R; Geng, Ruishuang; Chen, Daniel H-C; Nemet, Ina; Lee, Richard; Tian, Guilian; Miyagi, Masaru; Malagu, Karine F; Lock, Christopher J; Esmieu, William R K; Owens, Andrew P; Lindsay, Nicola A; Ouwehand, Krista; Albertus, Faywell; Fischer, David F; Bürli, Roland W; MacLeod, Angus M; Harte, William E; Palczewski, Krzysztof; Imanishi, Yoshikazu

2016-06-01

Usher syndrome type III (USH3), characterized by progressive deafness, variable balance disorder and blindness, is caused by destabilizing mutations in the gene encoding the clarin-1 (CLRN1) protein. Here we report a new strategy to mitigate hearing loss associated with a common USH3 mutation CLRN1(N48K) that involves cell-based high-throughput screening of small molecules capable of stabilizing CLRN1(N48K), followed by a secondary screening to eliminate general proteasome inhibitors, and finally an iterative process to optimize structure-activity relationships. This resulted in the identification of BioFocus 844 (BF844). To test the efficacy of BF844, we developed a mouse model that mimicked the progressive hearing loss associated with USH3. BF844 effectively attenuated progressive hearing loss and prevented deafness in this model. Because the CLRN1(N48K) mutation causes both hearing and vision loss, BF844 could in principle prevent both sensory deficiencies in patients with USH3. Moreover, the strategy described here could help identify drugs for other protein-destabilizing monogenic disorders.

Superacid Catalyzed Coal Conversion Chemistry. Final Technical Report, September 1, 1983-September 1, 1986

DOE R&D Accomplishments Database

Olah, G. A.

1986-01-01

This research project involved the study of a raw comparatively mild coal conversion process. The goal of the project was to study model systems to understand the basic chemistry involved and to provide a possible effective pretreatment of coal which significantly improves liquefaction-depolymerization under mild conditions. The conversion process operates at relatively low temperatures (170 degrees C) and pressures and uses an easily recyclable, stable superacid catalysts (HF-BF{sub 3}). It consequently offers an attractive alternative to currently available processes. From the present studies it appears that the modification of coal structure by electrophilic alkylation and subsequent reaction of alkylated coal with HF-BF{sub 3}-H{sub 2} system under mild conditions considerably improves the extractability of coal in pyridine and cyclohexane. On the other hand, nitration of coal and its subsequent reaction with HF-BF{sub 3}H{sub 2} decreases the pyridine and cyclohexane extractability. Study of model compounds under conditions identical with the superacidic HF/BF{sub 3}/H{sub 2} system provided significant information about the basic chemistry of the involved cleavage-hydrogenation reactions.

Simultaneous measurement of deep tissue blood flow and oxygenation using noncontact diffuse correlation spectroscopy flow-oximeter

PubMed Central

Li, Ting; Lin, Yu; Shang, Yu; He, Lian; Huang, Chong; Szabunio, Margaret; Yu, Guoqiang

2013-01-01

We report a novel noncontact diffuse correlation spectroscopy flow-oximeter for simultaneous quantification of relative changes in tissue blood flow (rBF) and oxygenation (Δ[oxygenation]). The noncontact probe was compared against a contact probe in tissue-like phantoms and forearm muscles (n = 10), and the dynamic trends in both rBF and Δ[oxygenation] were found to be highly correlated. However, the magnitudes of Δ[oxygenation] measured by the two probes were significantly different. Monte Carlo simulations and phantom experiments revealed that the arm curvature resulted in a significant underestimation (~−20%) for the noncontact measurements in Δ[oxygenation], but not in rBF. Other factors that may cause the residual discrepancies between the contact and noncontact measurements were discussed, and further comparisons with other established technologies are needed to identify/quantify these factors. Our research paves the way for noncontact and simultaneous monitoring of blood flow and oxygenation in soft and vulnerable tissues without distorting tissue hemodynamics. PMID:23446991

Li+ solvation and kinetics of Li+-BF4-/PF6- ion pairs in ethylene carbonate. A molecular dynamics study with classical rate theories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Tsun-Mei; Dang, Liem X.

2017-10-01

Using our polarizable force-field models and employing classical rate theories of chemical reactions, we examine the ethylene carbonate (EC) exchange process between the first and second solvation shells around Li+ and the dissociation kinetics of ion pairs Li+-[BF4] and Li+-[PF6] in this solvent. We calculate the exchange rates using transition state theory and correct them with transmission coefficients computed by the reactive flux, Impey, Madden, and McDonald approaches, and Grote-Hynes theory. We found that the residence times of EC around Li+ ions varied from 60 to 450 ps, depending on the correction method used. We found that the relaxation times changed significantly from Li+-[BF4] to Li+-[PF6] ion pairs in EC. Our results also show that, in addition to affecting the free energy of dissociation in EC, the anion type also significantly influences the dissociation kinetics of ion pairing.

Height differences and the associations between food insecurity, percentage body fat and BMI among men and women.

PubMed

Tayie, Francis A; Zizza, Claire A

2009-10-01

The present study examined the associations between adult food insecurity (FI) and percentage body fat (%BF) and BMI, stratified by height (HT). %BF, HT and BMI of 2117 men and 1909 women in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2002 were analysed in relation to adult food security status using multiple regression procedures. Compared with the fully food-secure, men's %BF, BMI and HT were lower as FI intensified. Marginal food security among women was associated with 1.3 cm shorter HT, P = 0.016. Marginal food security among women who were below median HT was associated with about 2.0 kg/m2 higher BMI, P = 0.042. %BF was not associated with FI among women. FI is associated with shorter HT and lower %BF and BMI in men. Women's HT should be considered in the reported associations between FI and higher BMI.

Spatially resolved nanoscale observations of soil carbon multidecadal persistence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lutfalla, S.; Chenu, C.; Bernard, S.; Le Guillou, C.; Barré, P.

2015-12-01

Assessing how mineral surfaces, especially at small scale, can protect soil organic carbon (SOC) from biodegradation is crucial. The question we address in this work is whether different mineral species lead to different organo-mineral interactions and stabilize different quantities of SOM and different types of SOC. Here we used the unique opportunity offered by long term bare fallows (BF) to study in situ C dynamics in several fine fractions of a silty loam soil. With no vegetation i.e. no external input of fresh C, the plant-free soil of the Versailles 42 Plots (INRA, France) has been progressively enriched in persistent SOC during the 80 years of BF. Contrasted mineral phases of the clay size fraction were isolated by size fractionation on samples from 5 different dates (0, 10, 22, 52, and 79 years after the beginning of the BF, four field replicates per date). Four fractions were studied: total clays (< 2 μm), and three sub fractions in the clay (fine clay: 0 - 0.05 μm, intermediate clay: 0.05 - 0.2 μm, and coarse clay: 0.2 - 2 μm). X-ray diffraction analyses showed contrasted mineralogies in the fine and intermediate clay (smectite and mixed layered illite/smectite) as opposed to the coarse clay (smectite, illite, kaolinite and mixed layered I/S). We performed CHN elemental analysis and synchrotron based spectroscopy and microscopy (NEXAFS bulk and STXM at the carbon K edge of 280 eV, CLS Saskatoon, Canada) to study the dynamics, the distribution and the chemical speciation of the SOC in these fractions. The quantity of C appears to be stabilized after 50 years of BF, even though the dynamics are different for the three clay fractions. Indeed, coarse and intermediate clays have the same final C content but coarse clays lose more C. Fine clay experiences the highest C losses and displays the highest final C content suggesting that fine clays contained more labile C and more persistent C. In all fractions, C:N ratios are really low (below 8) and are decreasing with time, evidencing the dominant presence of microbial SOC. STXM-NEXAFS data shows that, in the fine and intermediate clay fractions, during the first 50 years of BF all mineral particles are associated with SOC. On the contrary, in the coarse clays, SOC displays more diversity: the chemical signature is more diverse and mineral particles not associated with SOC appear more quickly.

Breast-feeding practices in Mexico: results from the Second National Nutrition Survey 1999.

PubMed

González-Cossío, Teresa; Moreno-Macías, Hortensia; Rivera, Juan A; Villalpando, Salvador; Shamah-Levy, Teresa; Monterrubio, Eric A; Hernández-Garduño, Adolfo

2003-01-01

To assess breast-feeding (BF) practices and determinants of exclusive BF (EBF) < 4 and < 6 months (mo) among women and infants < 23 mo in the NNS-1999. BF practices from the day and night before the interview were ascertained, and median duration estimated. Determinants of EBF < 4 and < 6 mo were analysed by logistic regression models for complex surveys. Prevalence of EBF < 4 mo was 25.7%, and of < 6 mo 20.3%. The overall rate of continued BF (second year) was 30.9%, median duration of BF 9 mo, and the national proportion of children ever breast-fed 92.3%. The probability (p) of EBF < 4 mo was determined by infant age and sex, by maternal socio-economic level (SEL) and ethnicity, and by the interaction between infant sex and SEL. The pEBF < 6 mo was determined by infant age and length, by maternal ethnicity, and employment. EBF rates and duration are low in Mexico and have improved only slightly in the last 20 y. Infant and maternal characteristics determine the pEBF. If improvements in infant health are a national priority, aggressive interventions to promote and protect BF are urgently needed in Mexico, as well as formal evaluation of current initiatives. The English version of this paper is available too at: http://www.insp.mx/salud/index.html.

Effect of By-product Feed-based Silage Feeding on the Performance, Blood Metabolites, and Carcass Characteristics of Hanwoo Steers (a Field Study)

PubMed Central

Kim, Y. I.; Park, J. M.; Lee, Y. H.; Lee, M.; Choi, D. Y.; Kwak, W. S.

2015-01-01

This study was conducted to determine the effects of feeding by-product feed (BF)-based silage on the performance, blood metabolite parameters, and carcass characteristics of Hanwoo steers. The BF-based silage was composed of 50% spent mushroom substrate, 21% recycled poultry bedding, 15% cut ryegrass straw, 10.8% rice bran, 2% molasses, 0.6% bentonite, and 0.6% microbial additive (on a wet basis), and ensiled for over 5 d. Fifteen steers were allocated to three diets during the growing and fattening periods (3.1 and 9.8 months, respectively): a control diet (concentrate mix and free access to rice straw), a 50% BF-based silage diet (control diet+50% of maximum BF-based silage intake), and a 100% BF-based silage diet (the same amount of concentrate mix and ad libitum BF-based silage). The BF-based silage was fed during the growing and fattening periods, and was replaced with larger particles of rice straw during the finishing period. After 19.6 months of the whole period all the steers were slaughtered. Compared with feeding rice straw, feeding BF-based silage tended (p = 0.10) to increase the average daily gain (27%) and feed efficiency (18%) of the growing steers, caused by increased voluntary feed intake. Feeding BF-based silage had little effect on serum constituents, electrolytes, enzymes, or the blood cell profiles of fattening steers, except for low serum Ca and high blood urea concentrations (p<0.05). Feeding BF-based silage did not affect cold carcass weight, yield traits such as back fat thickness, longissimus muscle area, yield index or yield grade, or quality traits such as meat color, fat color, texture, maturity, marbling score, or quality grade. However, it improved good quality grade (1+ and 1++) appearance rates (60% for the control group vs 100% for the BF-based silage-fed groups). In conclusion, cheap BF-based silage could be successfully used as a good quality roughage source for beef cattle. PMID:25557813

Effect of By-product Feed-based Silage Feeding on the Performance, Blood Metabolites, and Carcass Characteristics of Hanwoo Steers (a Field Study).

PubMed

Kim, Y I; Park, J M; Lee, Y H; Lee, M; Choi, D Y; Kwak, W S

2015-02-01

This study was conducted to determine the effects of feeding by-product feed (BF)-based silage on the performance, blood metabolite parameters, and carcass characteristics of Hanwoo steers. The BF-based silage was composed of 50% spent mushroom substrate, 21% recycled poultry bedding, 15% cut ryegrass straw, 10.8% rice bran, 2% molasses, 0.6% bentonite, and 0.6% microbial additive (on a wet basis), and ensiled for over 5 d. Fifteen steers were allocated to three diets during the growing and fattening periods (3.1 and 9.8 months, respectively): a control diet (concentrate mix and free access to rice straw), a 50% BF-based silage diet (control diet+50% of maximum BF-based silage intake), and a 100% BF-based silage diet (the same amount of concentrate mix and ad libitum BF-based silage). The BF-based silage was fed during the growing and fattening periods, and was replaced with larger particles of rice straw during the finishing period. After 19.6 months of the whole period all the steers were slaughtered. Compared with feeding rice straw, feeding BF-based silage tended (p = 0.10) to increase the average daily gain (27%) and feed efficiency (18%) of the growing steers, caused by increased voluntary feed intake. Feeding BF-based silage had little effect on serum constituents, electrolytes, enzymes, or the blood cell profiles of fattening steers, except for low serum Ca and high blood urea concentrations (p<0.05). Feeding BF-based silage did not affect cold carcass weight, yield traits such as back fat thickness, longissimus muscle area, yield index or yield grade, or quality traits such as meat color, fat color, texture, maturity, marbling score, or quality grade. However, it improved good quality grade (1(+) and 1(++)) appearance rates (60% for the control group vs 100% for the BF-based silage-fed groups). In conclusion, cheap BF-based silage could be successfully used as a good quality roughage source for beef cattle.

A Novel Approach for Preventing HIV Infection and Reducing Risk to U.S. Military Personnel

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-09-01

infection. Cell 131:1059-1071. 3. Hauber I, Hohenberg H, Holstermann B, Hunstein W, Hauber J. (2009) The main green tea polyphenol epigallocatechin -3... gallate counteracts semen- mediated enhancement of HIV infection. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 106:9033- 9038. 4. Roan NR, Munch J, Arhel N, Mothes W...specimen and the range of inhibition by EGCG . AIDS research and therapy 9:2. 11. Robert M, Gibbs BF, Jacobson E, Gagnon C. (1997) Characterization

Obesity prevalence and accuracy of BMI-defined obesity in Russian firefighters.

PubMed

Gurevich, K G; Poston, W S C; Anders, B; Ivkina, M A; Archangelskaya, A; Jitnarin, N; Starodubov, V I

2017-01-01

No data exist on obesity or the accuracy of body mass index (BMI) in Russian Federation firefighters. To determine the prevalence of obesity and rates of misclassification of BMI-based obesity status. Career firefighters in the Moscow region completed anthropometric assessments including height, weight, BMI, body fat per cent (BF%) and waist circumference (WC). Using these three methods, we defined obesity as BMI ≥30, BF% >25 and WC >102, respectively. The study group consisted of 167 male firefighters. Obesity prevalence was 22% for BMI [95% confidence interval (CI) 16.9-28.5], 60% for BF% (95% CI 52.5-67.3) and 28% for WC (95% CI 21.3-34.9). False positive rates for BMI-based obesity status were low, with 3% (95% CI -1.1 to 7.1) and 6% (95% CI 1.6-9.9) of non-obese participants defined by BF% and WC standards misidentified as obese using BMI. However, 65% (95% CI 55.7-77.4) of BF%-defined obese participants and 36% (95% CI 22.5-49.9) of WC-defined obese participants were misclassified as non-obese using BMI (i.e. false negatives). Rates of BMI-based obesity in Russian male firefighters were similar to that of males in the general Russian adult male population. Compared with BF% or WC standards, BMI-based obesity classi- fication produced low rates of false positives but demonstrated high rates of false negatives. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society of Occupational Medicine. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

No effect of adding dairy lipids or long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids on formula tolerance and growth in full term infants: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Gianni, Maria Lorella; Roggero, Paola; Baudry, Charlotte; Fressange-Mazda, Catherine; le Ruyet, Pascale; Mosca, Fabio

2018-01-22

When breastfeeding is not possible, infants are fed formulas in which lipids are usually of plant origin. However, the use of dairy fat in combination with plant oils enables a lipid profile in formula closer to breast milk in terms of fatty acid composition, triglyceride structure and cholesterol content. The objectives of this study were to investigate the impact on growth and gastrointestinal tolerance of a formula containing a mix of dairy lipids and plant oils in healthy infants. This study was a monocentric, double-blind, controlled, randomized trial. Healthy term infants aged less than 3 weeks whose mothers did not breastfeed were randomly allocated to formula containing either: a mix of plant oils and dairy fat (D), only plant oils (P) or plant oils supplemented with long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PDHA). Breastfed infants were included in a reference group (BF). Anthropometric parameters and body composition were measured after 2 and 4 months. Gastrointestinal tolerance was evaluated during 2 day-periods after 1 and 3 months thanks to descriptive parameters reported by parents. Nonrandomized BF infants were not included in the statistical analysis. Eighty eight formula-fed and 29 BF infants were enrolled. Gains of weight, recumbent length, cranial circumference and fat mass were similar between the 3 formula-fed groups at 2 and 4 months and close to those of BF. Z-scores for weight, recumbent length and cranial circumference in all groups were within normal ranges for growth standards. No significant differences were noted among the 3 formula groups in gastrointestinal parameters (stool frequency/consistency/color), occurrence of gastrointestinal symptoms (abdominal pain, flatulence, regurgitation) or infant's behavior. A formula containing a mix of dairy lipids and plant oils enables a normal growth in healthy newborns. This formula is well tolerated and does not lead to abnormal gastrointestinal symptoms. Consequently, reintroduction of dairy lipids could represent an interesting strategy to improve lipid quality in infant formulas. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT01611649 , retrospectively registered on May 25, 2012.

Three decades of breast-feeding trends in Singapore.

PubMed

Chua, S; Viegas, O A; Ratnam, S S

1990-03-01

In 1985, about 60% of well-to-do mothers in Singapore initiated breastfeeding (BF). This value compares favorably with the 36% of poor mothers BF, but is still unacceptably low compared with the 85-95% of well-to-do mothers and 90% of poor mothers who were BF their babies during the 1950s. There has been a general decline in the incidence and duration of BF in Singapore over the last 36 years, however, in the last decade, a larger proportion of well-to-do mothers had initiated and continued BF. Whilst the overall decline probably reflects increasing affluence and "westernization" of the population, the variation between these 2 economic groups is probably a result of differences in education. Among the 3 major ethnic communities, the Chinese favor BF the least and the Malays favor it the most. The differences are also believed to be related to cultural variations and the ability of the ethnic groups to resist the trend towards BF in favor of traditional practices and beliefs. In 1951, over 80% of infants were BF for 4 or more weeks, but by 1978 only 37% were being breast fed. In 1985, 39% of the well-to-do mothers chose to breastfed their infants. Differences between well-to-do and poor groups were originally small. During the 1960-1970 period, the differences widened. In the 1980s, they seem to have narrowed, however. Among the poor population, the proportion seems to be leveling off, while it is going up for well-to-do mothers. These changes are not unique to Singapore. The ethnic community has, and continues to have, a strong influence on the choice of feeding method. Ethnic Chinese throughout Southeast Asia are poor breast feeders. The most important traditional practice for the Malay and Indian mothers is support from relatives. Their religion may play an important role, too. Islam tells them to breastfeed. Chinese mothers often have false ideas about BF. They feel that it will ruin their figures, or that artificial formulas are better because they are more expensive. Mothers need to be educated about BF. It is estimates that 1 in 10 infants in Singapore are breast fed for more than 3 months. Medical personnel could be encouraged to influence mothers to breastfeed.

Bispentafluorophenyl-Containing Additive: Enhancing Efficiency and Morphological Stability of Polymer Solar Cells via Hand-Grabbing-Like Supramolecular Pentafluorophenyl-Fullerene Interactions.

PubMed

Hung, Kai-En; Tsai, Che-En; Chang, Shao-Ling; Lai, Yu-Ying; Jeng, U-Ser; Cao, Fong-Yi; Hsu, Chain-Shu; Su, Chun-Jen; Cheng, Yen-Ju

2017-12-20

A new class of additive materials bis(pentafluorophenyl) diesters (BFEs) where the two pentafluorophenyl (C 6 F 5 ) moieties are attached at the both ends of a linear aliphatic chain with tunable tether lengths (BF5, BF7, and BF13) were designed and synthesized. In the presence of BF7 to restrict the migration of fullerene by hand-grabbing-like supramolecular interactions induced between the C 6 F 5 groups and the surface of fullerene, the P3HT:PC 61 BM:BF7 device showed stable device characteristics after thermal heating at 150 °C for 25 h. The morphologies of the active layers were systematically investigated by optical microscopy, grazing-incidence small-angle X-ray scattering (GISAXS), and atomic force microscopy. The tether length between the two C 6 F 5 groups plays a pivotal role in controlling the intermolecular attractions. BF13 with a long and flexible tether might form a BF13-fullerene sandwich complex that fails to prevent fullerene's movement and aggregation, while BF5 with too short tether length decreases the possibility of interactions between the C 6 F 5 groups and the fullerenes. BF7 with the optimal tether length has the best ability to stabilize the morphology. In sharp contrast, the nonfluorinated BP7 analogue without C 6 F 5 -C 60 physical interactions does not have the capability of morphological stabilization, unambiguously revealing the necessity of the C 6 F 5 group. Most importantly, the function of BF7 can be also applied to the high-performance PffBT4BT-2OD:PC 71 BM system, which exhibited an original PCE of 8.80%. After thermal heating at 85 °C for 200 h, the efficiency of the PffBT4BT-2OD:PC 71 BM:BF7 device only decreased slightly to 7.73%, maintaining 88% of its original efficiency. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that the thermal-driven morphological evolution of the high-performance PffBT4BT-2OD polymer has been investigated, and its morphological stability in the inverted device can be successfully preserved by the incorporation of BF7. This research also demonstrates that BF7 is not only effective with PC 61 BM but also to PC 71 BM.

Tumor cell-released TLR4 ligands stimulate Gr-1+CD11b+F4/80+ cells to induce apoptosis of activated T cells.

PubMed

Liu, Yan-Yan; Sun, Ling-Cong; Wei, Jing-Jing; Li, Dong; Yuan, Ye; Yan, Bin; Liang, Zhi-Hui; Zhu, Hui-Fen; Xu, Yong; Li, Bo; Song, Chuan-Wang; Liao, Sheng-Jun; Lei, Zhang; Zhang, Gui-Mei; Feng, Zuo-Hua

2010-09-01

Gr-1(+)CD11b(+)F4/80(+) cells play important roles in tumor development and have a negative effect on tumor immunotherapy. So far, the mechanisms underlying the regulation of their immunosuppressive phenotype by classical and alternative macrophage activation stimuli are not well elucidated. In this study, we found that molecules from necrotic tumor cells (NTC-Ms) stimulated Gr-1(+)CD11b(+)F4/80(+) cells to induce apoptosis of activated T cells but not nonstimulated T cells. The apoptosis-inducing capacity was determined by higher expression levels of arginase I and IL-10 relative to those of NO synthase 2 and IL-12 in Gr-1(+)CD11b(+)F4/80(+) cells, which were induced by NTC-Ms through TLR4 signaling. The apoptosis-inducing capacity of NTC-Ms-stimulated Gr-1(+)CD11b(+)F4/80(+) cells could be enhanced by IL-10. IFN-gamma may reduce the apoptosis-inducing capacity of Gr-1(+)CD11b(+)F4/80(+) cells only if their response to IFN-gamma was not attenuated. However, the potential of Gr-1(+)CD11b(+)F4/80(+) cells to express IL-12 in response to IFN-gamma could be attenuated by tumor, partially due to the existence of active STAT3 in Gr-1(+)CD11b(+)F4/80(+) cells and NTC-Ms from tumor. In this situation, IFN-gamma could not effectively reduce the apoptosis-inducing capacity of Gr-1(+)CD11b(+)F4/80(+) cells. Tumor immunotherapy with 4-1BBL/soluble programmed death-1 may significantly reduce, but not abolish the apoptosis-inducing capacity of Gr-1(+)CD11b(+)F4/80(+) cells in local microenvironment. Blockade of TLR4 signaling could further reduce the apoptosis-inducing capacity of Gr-1(+)CD11b(+)F4/80(+) cells and enhance the suppressive effect of 4-1BBL/soluble form of programmed death-1 on tumor growth. These findings indicate the relationship of distinct signaling pathways with apoptosis-inducing capacity of Gr-1(+)CD11b(+)F4/80(+) cells and emphasize the importance of blocking TLR4 signaling to prevent the induction of T cell apoptosis by Gr-1(+)CD11b(+)F4/80(+) cells.

Microbundles of zinc oxide nanorods: Assembly in ionic liquid [EMIM]{sup +}[BF{sub 4}]{sup -}, photoluminescence and photocatalytic properties

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

Wang Li; Xu Shenzhi; Li Huijun

2011-03-15

A simple, efficient and low-temperature approach for the assembly of hierarchical Zinc oxide (ZnO) microstructures in ionic liquid [EMIM]{sup +}[BF{sub 4}]{sup -} is reported. The as-obtained ZnO superstructures are composed of microbundles of nanorods from the center points, with the diameter and length in the range of 100-150 nm and 2-4 {mu}m, which have been characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The ZnO microstructures exhibit significant defect-related green-yellow emission and high photodegradation of dye Methyl Orange (5x10{sup -5} mol/L) under UV excitation within 80 min. -- Graphical abstract: Easy formation of microbundles of ZnOmore » nanorods were accomplished in low temperature with [EMIM]{sup +}[BF{sub 4}]{sup -} (1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate) ionic liquid, which exhibit significant green-yellow photoluminescence property and high photodegradation of Methyl Orange dye. Display Omitted Research highlights: {yields} Ionic liquid assisted solid-state route was introduced into synthesis of ZnO nanorods. {yields} The distinctive microbundles ZnO nanorod assembles was evidenced by SEM and TEM. {yields} ZnO nano-material exhibited high efficiency in photodegradation of Methyl Orange.« less

Speeding Up the Bilateral Filter: A Joint Acceleration Way.

PubMed

Dai, Longquan; Yuan, Mengke; Zhang, Xiaopeng

2016-06-01

Computational complexity of the brute-force implementation of the bilateral filter (BF) depends on its filter kernel size. To achieve the constant-time BF whose complexity is irrelevant to the kernel size, many techniques have been proposed, such as 2D box filtering, dimension promotion, and shiftability property. Although each of the above techniques suffers from accuracy and efficiency problems, previous algorithm designers were used to take only one of them to assemble fast implementations due to the hardness of combining them together. Hence, no joint exploitation of these techniques has been proposed to construct a new cutting edge implementation that solves these problems. Jointly employing five techniques: kernel truncation, best N-term approximation as well as previous 2D box filtering, dimension promotion, and shiftability property, we propose a unified framework to transform BF with arbitrary spatial and range kernels into a set of 3D box filters that can be computed in linear time. To the best of our knowledge, our algorithm is the first method that can integrate all these acceleration techniques and, therefore, can draw upon one another's strong point to overcome deficiencies. The strength of our method has been corroborated by several carefully designed experiments. In particular, the filtering accuracy is significantly improved without sacrificing the efficiency at running time.

Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) oligosaccharides decrease biofilm formation by uropathogenic Escherichia coli.

PubMed

Sun, Jiadong; Marais, Jannie P J; Khoo, Christina; LaPlante, Kerry; Vejborg, Rebecca M; Givskov, Michael; Tolker-Nielsen, Tim; Seeram, Navindra P; Rowley, David C

2015-08-01

The preventive effects of the American cranberry ( Vaccinium macrocarpon ) against urinary tract infections are supported by extensive studies which have primarily focused on its phenolic constituents. Herein, a phenolic-free carbohydrate fraction (designated cranf1b-F2) was purified from cranberry fruit using ion exchange and size exclusion chromatography. MALDI-TOF-MS analysis revealed that the cranf1b-F2 constituents are predominantly oligosaccharides possessing various degrees of polymerisation and further structural analysis (by GC-MS and NMR) revealed mainly xyloglucan and arabinan residues. In antimicrobial assays, cranf1b-F2 (at 1.25 mg/mL concentration) reduced biofilm production by the uropathogenic Escherichia coli CFT073 strain by over 50% but did not inhibit bacterial growth. Cranf1b-F2 (ranging from 0.625 - 10 mg/mL) also inhibited biofilm formation of the non-pathogenic E. coli MG1655 strain up to 60% in a concentration-dependent manner. These results suggest that cranberry oligosaccharides, in addition to its phenolic constituents, may play a role in its preventive effects against urinary tract infections.

Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) oligosaccharides decrease biofilm formation by uropathogenic Escherichia coli

PubMed Central

Sun, Jiadong; Marais, Jannie P. J.; Khoo, Christina; LaPlante, Kerry; Vejborg, Rebecca M.; Givskov, Michael; Tolker-Nielsen, Tim; Seeram, Navindra P.; Rowley, David C.

2015-01-01

The preventive effects of the American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) against urinary tract infections are supported by extensive studies which have primarily focused on its phenolic constituents. Herein, a phenolic-free carbohydrate fraction (designated cranf1b-F2) was purified from cranberry fruit using ion exchange and size exclusion chromatography. MALDI-TOF-MS analysis revealed that the cranf1b-F2 constituents are predominantly oligosaccharides possessing various degrees of polymerisation and further structural analysis (by GC-MS and NMR) revealed mainly xyloglucan and arabinan residues. In antimicrobial assays, cranf1b-F2 (at 1.25 mg/mL concentration) reduced biofilm production by the uropathogenic Escherichia coli CFT073 strain by over 50% but did not inhibit bacterial growth. Cranf1b-F2 (ranging from 0.625 - 10 mg/mL) also inhibited biofilm formation of the non-pathogenic E. coli MG1655 strain up to 60% in a concentration-dependent manner. These results suggest that cranberry oligosaccharides, in addition to its phenolic constituents, may play a role in its preventive effects against urinary tract infections. PMID:26613004

Beneficial Effects of Dietary Probiotics Mixture on Hemato-Immunology and Cell Apoptosis of Labeo rohita Fingerlings Reared at Higher Water Temperatures

PubMed Central

Prusty, Ashisa K.; PaniPrasad, Kurchetti; Mohanta, Kedar N.

2014-01-01

Probiotics play an important role in growth increment, immune enhancement and stress mitigation in fish. Increasing temperature is a major concern in present aquaculture practices as it markedly deteriorates the health condition and reduces the growth in fish. In order to explore the possibilities of using probiotics as a counter measure for temperature associated problems, a 30 days feeding trial was conducted to study the hemato-immunological and apoptosis response of Labeo rohita (8.3±0.4 g) reared at different water temperatures, fed with or without dietary supplementation of a probiotic mixture (PM) consisting of Bacillus subtilis, Lactococcus lactis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) (1011 cfu kg−1). Three hundred and sixty fish were randomly distributed into eight treatment groups in triplicates, namely, T1(28°C+BF(Basal feed)+PM), T2(31°C+BF+PM), T3(34°C+BF+PM), T4(37°C+BF+PM), T5(28°C+BF), T6(31°C+BF), T7(34°C+BF) and T8(37°C+BF). A significant increase (P<0.01) in weight gain percentage was observed in the probiotic fed fish even when reared at higher water temperature (34–37°C). Respiratory burst assay, blood glucose, erythrocyte count, total serum protein, albumin, alkaline phosphatase and acid phosphatase were significantly higher (P<0.01) in the probiotic fed groups compared to the non-probiotic fed groups. A significant (P<0.01) effect of rearing temperature and dietary probiotic mixture on serum myeloperoxidase activity, HSP70 level and immunoglobulin production was observed. Degree of apoptosis in different tissues was also significantly reduced in probiotic-supplemented groups. Hence, the present results show that a dietary PM could be beneficial in enhancing the immune status of the fish and also help in combating the stress caused to the organism by higher rearing water temperature. PMID:24979660

Synthesis and evaluation of an 18 F-labeled trifluoroborate derivative of 2-nitroimidazole for imaging tumor hypoxia with positron emission tomography.

PubMed

Nunes, Paulo Sérgio Gonçalves; Zhang, Zhengxing; Kuo, Hsiou-Ting; Zhang, Chengcheng; Rousseau, Julie; Rousseau, Etienne; Lau, Joseph; Kwon, Daniel; Carvalho, Ivone; Bénard, François; Lin, Kuo-Shyan

2018-04-01

2-Nitroimidazole-based hypoxia imaging tracers such as 18 F-FMISO are normally imaged at late time points (several hours post-injection) due to their slow clearance from background tissues. Here, we investigated if a hydrophilic zwitterion-based ammoniomethyl-trifluoroborate derivative of 2-nitroimidazole, 18 F-AmBF 3 -Bu-2NI, could have the potential to image tumor hypoxia at earlier time points. AmBF 3 -Bu-2NI was prepared in 4 steps. 18 F labeling was conducted via 18 F- 19 F isotope exchange reaction, and 18 F-AmBF 3 -Bu-2NI was obtained in 14.8 ± 0.4% (n = 3) decay-corrected radiochemical yield with 24.5 ± 5.2 GBq/μmol specific activity and >99% radiochemical purity. Imaging and biodistribution studies in HT-29 tumor-bearing mice showed that 18 F-AmBF 3 -Bu-2NI cleared quickly from blood and was excreted via the hepatobiliary and renal pathways. However, the tumor was not visualized in PET images until 3 hours post-injection due to low tumor uptake (0.54 ± 0.13 and 0.19 ± 0.04%ID/g at 1 and 3 hours post-injection, respectively). The low tumor uptake is likely due to the highly hydrophilic motif of ammoniomethyl-trifluoroborate that prevents free diffusion of 18 F-AmBF 3 -Bu-2NI across the cell membrane. Our results suggest that highly hydrophilic 18 F-labeled ammoniomethyl-trifluoroborate derivatives might not be suitable for imaging intracellular targets including nitroreductase, a common tumor hypoxia imaging target. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

[EVALUATION OF THE BODY ADIPOSITY INDEX IN PREDICTING PERCENTAGE BODY FAT AMONG COLOMBIAN ADULTS].

PubMed

González-Ruíz, Katherine; Correa-Bautista, Jorge Enrique; Ramírez-Vélez, Robinson

2015-07-01

the body adiposity index (BAI) is a new simplistic method for predicting body fat percentage (BF%) via a simple equation of hip circumference to height. Up to now, few studies have evaluated the performance of BAI in determining excess fat in Colombians. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of BAI as a predictor of body fat in among Colombian adults. cross-sectional study carried out in a sample of 204 male belonging to the education sector from Bogotá, Colombia. BAI was calculated based on the equation reported in the Bergman et al. %BF determined by tetrapolar bioimpedance analysis (BIA) was used as the reference measure of adiposity. Bland-Altman analysis was used to assess the agreement between the two methods: BAI and BIA. Associations between anthropometric measures of adiposity were investigated by Pearson correlation analysis. in general pupulation, the BAI overestimates %BF (mean difference: 12.5 % [95%CI = -4.04 % to -21.02 %]), mainly at lower levels of adiposity (mean difference: 10.2 ± 3.3). Significant correlations were found between BAI and all measurements, being the strongest-moderate correlation with %BF (r = 0.777, p < 0.001), waist to height ratio (r = 0.557, p < 0.001) and BMI (r = 0.480, p < 0.001). the results of this investigation indicate that BAI results in large individual errors when predicting BF% among Colombian adults and has a tendency to provide overestimated values as BF% decreases. Therefore, this method can be a useful tool to predict %BF in Colombian adults, although it has some limitations. Copyright AULA MEDICA EDICIONES 2014. Published by AULA MEDICA. All rights reserved.

Superficial plantar cutaneous sensation does not trigger barefoot running adaptations.

PubMed

Thompson, M A; Hoffman, K M

2017-09-01

It has long been proposed that the gait alterations associated with barefoot running are mediated by alterations in sensory feedback, yet there has been no data to support this claim. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine the role of superficial plantar cutaneous feedback in barefoot and shod running. 10 healthy active subjects (6 male, 4 female); mass: 65.2+9.7kg; age: 27+7.1years participated in this study. 10 over-ground running trials were completed in each of the following conditions: barefoot (BF), shod (SHOD), anesthetized barefoot (ANEST BF) and anesthetized shod (ANEST SHOD). For the anesthetized conditions 0.1-0.3mL of 1% lidocaine was injected into the dermal layer of the plantar foot below the metatarsal heads, lateral column and heel. 3-dimensional motion analysis and ground reaction force (GRF) data were captured as subjects ran over a 20m runway with a force plate at 12m. Kinematic and kinetic differences were analyzed via two-way repeated measure ANOVAs. The differences in gait between the BF and SHOD conditions were consistent with previous research, with subjects exhibiting a significant decrease in stride length and changing from rearfoot strike when SHOD to fore/midfoot strike when BF. Additionally, BF running was associated with decreased impact peak magnitudes and peak vertical GRFs. Despite anesthetizing the plantar surface, there was no difference between the BF and ANEST BF conditions in terms of stride length, foot strike or GRFs. Superficial cutaneous sensory receptors are not primarily responsible for the gait changes associated with barefoot running. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

β-Adrenergic blockade does not impair the skin blood flow sensitivity to local heating in burned and nonburned skin under neutral and hot environments in children.

PubMed

Rivas, Eric; McEntire, Serina J; Herndon, David N; Mlcak, Ronald P; Suman, Oscar E

2017-05-01

We tested the hypothesis that propranolol, a drug given to burn patients to reduce hypermetabolism/cardiac stress, may inhibit heat dissipation by changing the sensitivity of skin blood flow (SkBF) to local heating under neutral and hot conditions. In a randomized double-blind study, a placebo was given to eight burned children, while propranolol was given to 13 burned children with similar characteristics (mean±SD: 11.9±3 years, 147±20 cm, 45±23 kg, 56±12% Total body surface area burned). Nonburned children (n=13, 11.4±3 years, 152±15 cm, 52±13 kg) served as healthy controls. A progressive local heating protocol characterized SkBF responses in burned and unburned skin and nonburned control skin under the two environmental conditions (23 and 34°C) via laser Doppler flowmetry. Resting SkBF was greater in burned and unburned skin compared to the nonburned control (main effect: skin, P<.0001; 57±32 burned; 38±36 unburned vs 9±8 control %SkBF max ). No difference was found for maximal SkBF capacity to local heating between groups. Additionally, dose-response curves for the sensitivity of SkBF to local heating were not different among burned or unburned skin, and nonburned control skin (EC 50 , P>.05) under either condition. Therapeutic propranolol does not negatively affect SkBF under neutral or hot environmental conditions and further compromise temperature regulation in burned children. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Association of complement factor B allotypes and serum biomarkers in rheumatoid arthritis patients and their relatives.

PubMed

Nass, F R; Skare, T L; Goeldner, I; Nisihara, R; Messias-Reason, I J; Utiyama, S R R

2015-12-01

The aim of the study was to investigate the allotypic variability of complement factor B (BF) in patients and relatives with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and its association with serological biomarkers and clinical features of the disease. BF allotypes were determined by high-voltage agarose gel electrophoresis in serum samples of 180 patients with RA, 198 relatives and 98 controls from Southern Brazil. Anticyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP), antimutated citrullinated vimentin (anti-MCV) and IgA-rheumatoid factor (RF) were determined by ELISA and IgM-RF by latex agglutination in all samples. No significant differences were found in the allotypic variants of BF between patients with RA, relatives and controls, nor associations with gender and age of RA onset. BF*S07 allotype was significantly associated with extra-articular manifestations (EAMs; Secondary Sjögren Syndrome, pneumonitis, rheumatoid nodules) in patients with RA (P = 0.02; OR = 6.62). Patients with phenotype BF F had lower positivity for anti-MCV biomarker (P = 0.02; OR = 0.22) and those with allotype BF*S had higher prevalence of this autoantibody (P = 0.02; OR = 3.77). An increased frequency of RF-IgA was detected in relatives of patients with RA with BF FS07 phenotype (P = 0.02; OR = 7.78). Complement BF variability did not influence the development of RA in the studied patients, but BF variants may act as markers of disease prognosis, such as development of EAMs, corroborating with the role of the alternative pathway in the pathogenesis of RA. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Differences in Postprandial Lipid Response to Breast- or Formula-feeding in 8-Week-Old Infants.

PubMed

Teller, Inga C; Schoen, Stefanie; van de Heijning, Bert; van der Beek, Eline M; Sauer, Pieter J J

2017-04-01

Lipids play important roles in infant growth and development. In this exploratory observational single-center study, we investigated postmeal responses of infants to dietary lipids and differences between breast-feeding (BF) and formula-feeding (FF). Two capillary blood samples were collected from each subject, before and randomly assigned at either 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, or 240 minutes after their respective feeding, followed by measurement of lipid-related plasma parameter concentrations using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay-based or combined enzymatic and colorimetric methods. The intermeal interval before testing was shorter in the BF (182.91 ± 22.85 minutes, n = 33) versus FF group (214.1 ± 30.76 minutes, n = 34); BF subjects fed 5 minutes longer (BF 20.27 ± 7.7 minutes; FF 14.82 ± 3.57 minutes). Composite postmeal concentration profiles were generated from 59 plasma sample pairs with sufficient volume (BF = 30): triglyceride (TG) baselines were not different. A TG difference was indicated for BF over FF subjects at 30 minutes, for FF over BF subjects at 60 minutes when corrected for baseline. TG responses in both groups appeared and seemed to clear much faster than those reported for adults. The TG:apolipoprotein B48 (ApoB48) ratio suggests that chylomicrons in BF subjects may carry a higher fat load (P < 0.05), compensated by a higher chylomicron number in FF subjects (P < 0.05). Cholesterol in BF subjects was higher and showed an increase after feeding when corrected for baseline. Our results indicate that lipids from either BF or FF may be handled differently in young healthy infants.

Timing of Biochemical Failure and Distant Metastasis for Low, Intermediate, and High Risk Prostate Cancer after Radiotherapy

PubMed Central

Morgan, Peter B.; Hanlon, Alexandra L.; Horwitz, Eric M.; Buyyounouski, Mark K.; Uzzo, Robert G.; Pollack, Alan

2007-01-01

Condensed Abstract The timing of biochemical failure and distant metastasis after radiotherapy for low, intermediate and high-risk prostate cancer was determined. The patterns of failure suggest that the majority of early failures were due to subclinical micrometastases present at diagnosis, whereas a late wave of metastasis at 10–12 years in every risk group was consistent with tumor spread from local persistence of disease. Background The relationship of prostate cancer risk group stratification and the timing of biochemical failure (BF) and distant metastasis (DM) is not well defined. We sought to differentiate early failures due to subclinical micrometastasis at presentation from late failures due to local persistence. Methods A total of 1833 men with clinically localized prostate cancer treated with 3D-conformal radiotherapy with or without short-term androgen deprivation were retrospectively analyzed. The interval hazard rates of DM and BF, using ASTRO and Phoenix (Nadir+2) definitions, were determined for men with low, intermediate, and high risk disease. Results Median follow-up was 67 months. Multivariate analysis showed that increasing risk group was independently associated with higher ASTRO BF (P<.0001) and Nadir+2 BF (P<.0001). The preponderance (87%) of ASTRO BF occurred ≤4 years after RT, while Nadir+2 BF was more evenly spread over years 1–12, with 43% at >4 years. The hazard of Nadir+2 BF persisted in years 8–12 in all risk groups. The interval hazard function for DM appeared to be biphasic (early and late peaks) for intermediate and high risk patients, but no distinct early wave was evident for low risk patients. Conclusions ASTRO BF underestimates late BF due to backdating. Local persistence of disease is suggested by delayed Nadir+2 BF and subsequent late DM in every risk group. The paucity of early DM among those with low risk tumors supports the hypothesis that occult micrometastases contributed to the early wave. PMID:17520705

Ion-water wires in imidazolium-based ionic liquid/water solutions induce unique trends in density.

PubMed

Ghoshdastidar, Debostuti; Senapati, Sanjib

2016-03-28

Ionic liquid/water binary mixtures are rapidly gaining popularity as solvents for dissolution of cellulose, nucleobases, and other poorly water-soluble biomolecules. Hence, several studies have focused on measuring the thermophysical properties of these versatile mixtures. Among these, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium ([emim]) cation-based ILs containing different anions exhibit unique density behaviours upon addition of water. While [emim][acetate]/water binary mixtures display an unusual rise in density with the addition of low-to-moderate amounts of water, those containing the [trifluoroacetate] ([Tfa]) anion display a sluggish decrease in density. The density of [emim][tetrafluoroborate] ([emim][BF4])/water mixtures, on the other hand, declines rapidly in close accordance with the experimental reports. Here, we unravel the structural basis underlying this unique density behavior of [emim]-based IL/water mixtures using all-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The results revealed that the distinct nature of anion-water hydrogen bonded networks in the three systems was a key in modulating the observed unique density behaviour. Vast expanses of uninterrupted anion-water-anion H-bonded stretches, denoted here as anion-water wires, induced significant structuring in [emim][Ac]/water mixtures that resulted in the density rise. Conversely, the presence of intermittent large water clusters disintegrated the anion-water wires in [emim][Tfa]/water and [emim][BF4]/water mixtures to cause a monotonic density decrease. The differential nanostructuring affected the dynamics of the solutions proportionately, with the H-bond making and breaking dynamics found to be greatly retarded in [emim][Ac]/water mixtures, while it exhibited a faster relaxation in the other two binary solutions.

Effects of dark storage and retail display on beef chuck and round muscles enhanced with ammonium hydroxide, salt, and carbon monoxide.

PubMed

Hamling, A E; Jenschke, B E; Calkins, C R

2008-04-01

The objective of this study was to determine the retail shelf stability of beef chuck and round muscles enhanced with ammonium hydroxide, salt, and carbon monoxide. A split plot design was used for each of 3 muscles [triceps brachii (TB), biceps femoris (BF), and rectus femoris (RF)] with 2 treatments (0 and 20% pump), 3 dark storage periods (1, 2, and 3 wk), and 3 replications in the whole plot and retail display period as the split plot. There were a total of 12 subprimals per treatment per dark storage period (n = 72 each). Individual steaks were cut to a thickness of 2.54 cm and packaged in a modified-atmosphere package (MAP). The TB was packaged in a high-oxygen MAP (80% oxygen, 20% carbon dioxide). The BF and RF were packaged in a low-oxygen MAP (100% carbon dioxide). At the completion of each dark storage period, steaks were subjected to 7 d of simulated retail display. Steaks were used for objective and subjective color measurements, total plate counts, and determination of retail purge and oxidation. For all muscles, total plate counts were always numerically greater in injected steaks. Triceps brachii steaks held in dark storage for 3 wk and displayed at retail for 4 or more days all exceeded 10(7) log of cfu/cm(2) for aerobic plate count. Biceps femoris and RF steaks packaged in a low-oxygen MAP had much lower bacterial counts, with levels below 4.2 log of cfu/cm(2), even after 7 d of retail display. Oxidation values for the TB were extremely high (ranging from 12.3 to 26.6), whereas the BF and RF had values that were much lower (< or =1.0 mg of malonaldehyde/kg of muscle), likely due to the oxidation occurring in a high-oxygen MAP for the TB. Enhanced TB steaks proved to have greater color stability (less discoloration) than nonenhanced TB steaks. In addition, the BF and RF (low-oxygen MAP) steaks had better color stability (more stable redness values) than TB (high-oxygen MAP) steaks, although TB steaks initially exhibited a brighter red color. Retail display life was enhanced by packaging in 100% carbon dioxide, and enhanced steaks exhibited greater color stability in retail display than control steaks.

The effect of acetazolamide on different ocular vascular beds.

PubMed

Haustein, Michael; Spoerl, Eberhard; Boehm, Andreas G

2013-05-01

To assess the effect of acetazolamide (AZ) on different ocular vascular beds. In a prospective study, 32 healthy volunteers (16 male, 16 female) with a mean age of 23.9 ± 3.3 years (20-39 years) were included. Before and after intravenous administration of 1,000 mg AZ (single dose), ocular microcirculation parameters were measured every 20 min for 2 h. Retinal vessel diameters (VD) were measured by the retina vessel analyzer, blood flow (BF) in the neuroretinal rim by the laser doppler flowmeter according to Riva, and the parapapillary retinal BF by the scanning laser Doppler flowmeter. Additionally, the Langham ocular blood flow system was used to determine the ocular pulse amplitude (OPA) and the pulsatile ocular blood flow (pOBF). The measurements were correlated with systemic blood pressure (BP), ocular perfusion pressure (OPP), capillary base excess parameters and serum AZ levels. Arterial and venous VD were significantly increased by about 4-5% each. Papillary BF increased significantly about 40%. Parapapillary retinal flow dropped significantly about 19% (120 min). OPA and pOBF showed no statistically significant changes. BP showed no significant changes, and OPP was significantly increased. There were no correlations with pH or systemic perfusion parameters. AZ leads to a dilatation of retinal VD, to an increase of BF in the optic nerve head, and to a decrease of parapapillary retinal BF. The different BF changes in different vascular beds might be due to different regulatory mechanisms, steal effects, or different distributions of the carbonic anhydrase.

Effects of metals on enantioselective toxicity and biotransformation of cis-bifenthrin in zebrafish.

PubMed

Yang, Ye; Ji, Dapeng; Huang, Xin; Zhang, Jianyun; Liu, Jing

2017-08-01

Co-occurrence of pyrethroids and metals in watersheds previously has been reported to pose great risk to aquatic species. Pyrethroids are a class of chiral insecticides that have been shown to have enantioselective toxicity and biotransformation. However, the influence of metals on enantioselectivity of pyrethroids has not yet been evaluated. In the present study, the effects of cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb) on the enantioselective toxicity and metabolism of cis-bifenthrin (cis-BF) were investigated in zebrafish at environmentally relevant concentrations. The addition of Cd, Cu, or Pb significantly increased the mortality of zebrafish in racemate and R-enantiomer of cis-BF-treated groups. In rac-cis-BF- or 1R-cis-BF-treated groups, the addition of Cd, Cu, or Pb caused a decrease in enantiomeric fraction (EF) and an increased ratio of R-enantiomer residues in zebrafish. In 1S-cis-BF-treated groups, coexposure to Cd led to a lower EF and decreased residue levels of S-enantiomer. In addition, coexposure to the 3 metals resulted in different biodegradation characteristics of each enantiomer accompanied with differential changes in the expression of cytochrome P450 (CYP)1, CYP2, and CYP3 genes, which might be responsible for the enantioselective biodegradation of cis-BF in zebrafish. These results suggest that the influence of coexistent metals should be considered in the ecological risk assessment of chiral pyrethroids in aquatic environments. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:2139-2146. © 2017 SETAC. © 2017 SETAC.

Anthropometric and body frame size characteristics in relation to body mass index and percentage body fat among adult Bengalee male brick-kiln workers from Murshidabad, West Bengal, India.

PubMed

Banik, Sudip Datta; Ghosh, Mihir; Bose, Kaushik

2016-11-01

Anthropometric and body frame size parameters (ABFSP) are used to interpret body mass and to evaluate nutritional status. Objective of the present study was to investigate the interrelationships between ABFSP, percentage body fat (BF%) and body mass index (BMI). The study was carried out in a sample of 141 adult Bengalee healthy male brick-kiln workers (age range 18-59 years) from Murshidabad district in West Bengal, India. Body weight was recorded; anthropometric measurements included height, breadth (elbow, wrist, hand, foot, ankle, knee), circumferences (mid-upper arm, chest, waist, hip, thigh, medial calf) and skinfolds (biceps, triceps, subscapular, suprailiac). Derived ABFSP included sum of breadth and circumferences, frame index, BMI, BF%, sum of skinfolds, ratio of central and peripheral skinfolds, arm muscle area, arm muscle circumference, arm fat area and brachial adipo-muscular ratio. Correlations (age-controlled) between ABFSP, BMI and BF% were highly significant ( p < 0.001). The ABFSP and BF% varied significantly ( p < 0.0001) in relation to BMI-based nutritional status (BNS). Multinomial logistic regression analysis (age-adjusted) showed ABFSP had statistically significant ( p < 0.01) relationships with BNS. There were strong interrelationships between ABFSP, BMI and BF% independent of age. The ABFSP in individuals with normal BMI, suffering from undernutrition (low BMI) or overweight are different.

Continuous Rapid Quantification of Stroke Volume using Magnetohydrodynamic Voltages in 3T MRI

PubMed Central

Gregory, T. Stan; Oshinski, John; Schmidt, Ehud J.; Kwong, Raymond Y.; Stevenson, William G.; Tse, Zion Tsz Ho

2015-01-01

Background To develop a technique to non-invasively estimate Stroke Volume (SV) in real-time during Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) guided procedures, based on induced Magnetohydrodynamic Voltages (VMHD) that occur in Electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings during MRI exams, leaving the MRI scanner free to perform other imaging tasks. Due to the relationship between blood-flow (BF) and VMHD, we hypothesized that a method to obtain SV could be derived from extracted VMHD vectors in the Vectorcardiogram frame-of-reference (VMHDVCG). Methods and Results To estimate a subject-specific BF-VMHD model, VMHDVCG was acquired during a 20-second breath-hold and calibrated versus aortic BF measured using Phase Contrast Magnetic Resonance (PCMR) in 10 subjects (n=10) and one subject diagnosed with Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs). Beat-to-Beat validation of VMHDVCG derived BF was performed using Real-Time Phase Contrast (RTPC) imaging in 7 healthy subjects (n=7) during a 15 minute cardiac exercise stress tests and 30 minutes after stress relaxation in 3T MRIs. Subject-specific equations were derived to correlate VMHDVCG to BF at rest, and validated using RTPC. An average error of 7.22% and 3.69% in SV estimation, respectively, was found during peak stress, and after complete relaxation. Measured beat-to-beat blood flow time-history derived from RTPC and VMHD were highly correlated using a Spearman Rank Correlation Coefficient during stress tests (0.89) and after stress relaxation (=0.86). Conclusions Accurate beat-to-beat SV and BF were estimated using VMHDVCG extracted from intra-MRI 12-lead ECGs, providing a means to enhance patient monitoring during MR imaging and MR-guided interventions. PMID:26628581

Three-dimensional bright-field scanning transmission electron microscopy elucidate novel nanostructure in microbial biofilms.

PubMed

Hickey, William J; Shetty, Ameesha R; Massey, Randall J; Toso, Daniel B; Austin, Jotham

2017-01-01

Bacterial biofilms play key roles in environmental and biomedical processes, and understanding their activities requires comprehension of their nanoarchitectural characteristics. Electron microscopy (EM) is an essential tool for nanostructural analysis, but conventional EM methods are limited in that they either provide topographical information alone, or are suitable for imaging only relatively thin (<300 nm) sample volumes. For biofilm investigations, these are significant restrictions. Understanding structural relations between cells requires imaging of a sample volume sufficiently large to encompass multiple cells and the capture of both external and internal details of cell structure. An emerging EM technique with such capabilities is bright-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (BF-STEM) and in the present report BF-STEM was coupled with tomography to elucidate nanostructure in biofilms formed by the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon-degrading soil bacterium, Delftia acidovorans Cs1-4. Dual-axis BF-STEM enabled high-resolution 3-D tomographic recontructions (6-10 nm) visualization of thick (1250 and 1500 nm) sections. The 3-D data revealed that novel extracellular structures, termed nanopods, were polymorphic and formed complex networks within cell clusters. BF-STEM tomography enabled visualization of conduits formed by nanopods that could enable intercellular movement of outer membrane vesicles, and thereby enable direct communication between cells. This report is the first to document application of dual-axis BF-STEM tomography to obtain high-resolution 3-D images of novel nanostructures in bacterial biofilms. Future work with dual-axis BF-STEM tomography combined with correlative light electron microscopy may provide deeper insights into physiological functions associated with nanopods as well as other nanostructures. © 2016 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2016 Royal Microscopical Society.

Fat and lean BMI reference curves in children and adolescents and their utility in identifying excess adiposity compared with BMI and percentage body fat.

PubMed

Weber, David R; Moore, Reneé H; Leonard, Mary B; Zemel, Babette S

2013-07-01

Body mass index (BMI) and percentage body fat (%BF) are widely used to assess adiposity. These indexes fail to account for independent contributions of fat mass (FM) and lean body mass (LBM) to body weight, which vary according to age, sex, pubertal status, and population ancestry in the pediatric population. The objective was to develop pediatric reference curves for fat mass index (FMI) and lean body mass index (LBMI) and evaluate the effects of population ancestry and LBM on measures of excess adiposity (BMI, %BF, and FMI). Sex-specific FMI and LBMI reference curves relative to age for children and adolescents aged 8-20 y were generated from cross-sectional body-composition data measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry from NHANES. The mean LBMI z score was higher in blacks (males: 0.26; females: 0.45) than in whites (males: -0.07; females: -0.09) and Mexican Americans (males: 0.05; females: -0.09). The positive predictive value of overweight by BMI to identify excess adiposity defined by FMI was lower in blacks (males: 35.9%; females: 30.3%) than in whites (males: 65.4%; females: 52.2%) and Mexican Americans (males: 73.3%; females: 68.3%). Participants classified as having excess adiposity by FMI but normal adiposity by %BF had significantly higher BMI, LBMI, and height z scores than did those classified as having excess adiposity by %BF but normal adiposity by FMI. Relative to FMI, the prevalence of excess adiposity is overestimated by BMI in blacks and underestimated by %BF in individuals with high LBM. The use of FMI and LBMI improves on the use of %BF and BMI by allowing for the independent assessment of FM and LBM.

The effects of dietary fish oil on exercising skeletal muscle vascular and metabolic control in chronic heart failure rats.

PubMed

Holdsworth, Clark T; Copp, Steven W; Hirai, Daniel M; Ferguson, Scott K; Sims, Gabrielle E; Hageman, Karen S; Stebbins, Charles L; Poole, David C; Musch, Timothy I

2014-03-01

Impaired vasomotor control in chronic heart failure (CHF) is due partly to decrements in nitric oxide synthase (NOS) mediated vasodilation. Exercising muscle blood flow (BF) is augmented with polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplementation via fish oil (FO) in healthy rats. We hypothesized that FO would augment exercising muscle BF in CHF rats via increased NO-bioavailability. Myocardial infarction (coronary artery ligation) induced CHF in Sprague-Dawley rats which were subsequently randomized to dietary FO (20% docosahexaenoic acid, 30% eicosapentaenoic acid, n = 15) or safflower oil (SO, 5%, n = 10) for 6-8 weeks. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), blood [lactate], and hindlimb muscles BF (radiolabeled microspheres) were determined at rest, during treadmill exercise (20 m·min(-1), 5% incline) and exercise + N(G)-nitro-l-arginine-methyl-ester (l-NAME) (a nonspecific NOS inhibitor). FO did not change left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (SO: 14 ± 2; FO: 11 ± 1 mm Hg, p > 0.05). During exercise, MAP (SO: 128 ± 3; FO: 132 ± 3 mm Hg) and blood [lactate] (SO: 3.8 ± 0.4; FO: 4.6 ± 0.5 mmol·L(-1)) were not different (p > 0.05). Exercising hindlimb muscle BF was lower in FO than SO (SO: 120 ± 11; FO: 93 ± 4 mL·min(-1)·100 g(-1), p < 0.05) but was not differentially affected by l-NAME. Specifically, 17 of 28 individual muscle BF's were lower (p < 0.05) in FO demonstrating that PUFA supplementation with FO in CHF rats does not augment muscle BF during exercise but may lower metabolic cost.

The HIV-1 epidemic in Bolivia is dominated by subtype B and CRF12_BF "family" strains.

PubMed

Guimarães, Monick L; Velarde-Dunois, Ketty G; Segurondo, David; Morgado, Mariza G

2012-01-16

Molecular epidemiological studies of HIV-1 in South America have revealed the occurrence of subtypes B, F1 and BF1 recombinants. Even so, little information concerning the HIV-1 molecular epidemiology in Bolivia is available. In this study we performed phylogenetic analyses from samples collected in Bolivia at two different points in time over a 10 year span. We analyzed these samples to estimate the trends in the HIV subtype and recombinant forms over time. Fifty one HIV-1 positive samples were collected in Bolivia over two distinct periods (1996 and 2005). These samples were genetically characterized based on partial pol protease/reverse transcriptase (pr/rt) and env regions. Alignment and neighbor-joining (NJ) phylogenetic analyses were established from partial env (n = 37) and all pol sequences using Mega 4. The remaining 14 env sequences from 1996 were previously characterized based on HMA-env (Heteroduplex mobility assay). The Simplot v.3.5.1 program was used to verify intragenic recombination, and SplitsTree 4.0 was employed to confirm the phylogenetic relationship of the BF1 recombinant samples. Phylogenetic analysis of both env and pol regions confirmed the predominance of "pure" subtype B (72.5%) samples circulating in Bolivia and revealed a high prevalence of BF1 genotypes (27.5%). Eleven out of 14 BF1 recombinants displayed a mosaic structure identical or similar to that described for the CRF12_BF variant, one sample was classified as CRF17_BF, and two others were F1pol/Benv. No "pure" HIV-1 subtype F1 or B" variant of subtype B was detected in the present study. Of note, samples characterized as CRF12_BF-related were depicted only in 2005. HIV-1 genetic diversity in Bolivia is mostly driven by subtype B followed by BF1 recombinant strains from the CRF12_BF "family". No significant temporal changes were detected between the mid-1990s and the mid-2000s for subtype B (76.2% vs 70.0%) or BF1 recombinant (23.8% vs 30.0%) samples from Bolivia.

The HIV-1 epidemic in Bolivia is dominated by subtype B and CRF12_BF "family" strains

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Molecular epidemiological studies of HIV-1 in South America have revealed the occurrence of subtypes B, F1 and BF1 recombinants. Even so, little information concerning the HIV-1 molecular epidemiology in Bolivia is available. In this study we performed phylogenetic analyses from samples collected in Bolivia at two different points in time over a 10 year span. We analyzed these samples to estimate the trends in the HIV subtype and recombinant forms over time. Materials and methods Fifty one HIV-1 positive samples were collected in Bolivia over two distinct periods (1996 and 2005). These samples were genetically characterized based on partial pol protease/reverse transcriptase (pr/rt) and env regions. Alignment and neighbor-joining (NJ) phylogenetic analyses were established from partial env (n = 37) and all pol sequences using Mega 4. The remaining 14 env sequences from 1996 were previously characterized based on HMA-env (Heteroduplex mobility assay). The Simplot v.3.5.1 program was used to verify intragenic recombination, and SplitsTree 4.0 was employed to confirm the phylogenetic relationship of the BF1 recombinant samples. Results Phylogenetic analysis of both env and pol regions confirmed the predominance of "pure" subtype B (72.5%) samples circulating in Bolivia and revealed a high prevalence of BF1 genotypes (27.5%). Eleven out of 14 BF1 recombinants displayed a mosaic structure identical or similar to that described for the CRF12_BF variant, one sample was classified as CRF17_BF, and two others were F1pol/Benv. No "pure" HIV-1 subtype F1 or B" variant of subtype B was detected in the present study. Of note, samples characterized as CRF12_BF-related were depicted only in 2005. Conclusion HIV-1 genetic diversity in Bolivia is mostly driven by subtype B followed by BF1 recombinant strains from the CRF12_BF "family". No significant temporal changes were detected between the mid-1990s and the mid-2000s for subtype B (76.2% vs 70.0%) or BF1 recombinant (23.8% vs 30.0%) samples from Bolivia. PMID:22248191

Effect of bone marrow-derived CD11b(+)F4/80 (+) immature dendritic cells on the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in DBA/1 mice with collagen-induced arthritis.

PubMed

Fu, Jingjing; Zhang, Lingling; Song, Shanshan; Sheng, Kangliang; Li, Ying; Li, Peipei; Song, Shasha; Wang, Qingtong; Chu, Jianhong; Wei, Wei

2014-05-01

To explore the effect of bone marrow-derived CD11b(+)F4/80(+) immature dendritic cells (BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+)iDC) on the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in DBA/1 mice with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+)iDC were induced with rmGM-CSF and rmIL-4, and were identified by the expressions of toll-like receptor 2 (TLR-2), indoleamine 2,3-deoxygenase (IDO), interleukin (IL)-10, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and mixed leukocyte reaction (MLR). CIA was established in DBA/1 mice by immunization with type II collagen. CIA mice were injected intravenously with BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+)iDC three times after immunization. The effect of BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+)iDC on CIA was evaluated by the arthritis index, joint histopathology, body weight, thymus index, thymocytes proliferation, IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-17, IL-10 and TGF-β1 levels. BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+)iDC induced with rmGM-CSF and rmIL-4 expressed high levels of TLR-2, IDO, IL-10 and TGF-β1. Infusion of BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+)iDC in CIA mice significantly reduced the arthritis index and pathological scores of joints, recovered the weight, decreased the thymus index and inhibited thymocyte proliferation. Levels of IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-17 were decreased in BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+)iDC-treated mice. BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+)iDC can be induced successfully with rmGM-CSF and rmIL-4. BM CD11b(+)F4/80(+)iDC treatment can ameliorate the development and severity of CIA by regulating the balance between pro-inflammatory cytokines and anti-inflammatory cytokines.

BF3·Et2O Catalysed 4-Aryl-3-phenyl-benzopyrones, Pro-SERMs, and Their Characterization

PubMed Central

Srivastava, Ambika; Kumar, Rajesh

2015-01-01

We have synthesized the novel 4-(4-hydroxy-benzyl)-3-phenyl-chromen-2-one which is a precursor of SERMs with a smaller number of steps and good yield. Two methodologies for the synthesis have been worked out. Anhydrous BF3·Et2O catalyzed reaction was found to be selective for product formation while anhydrous AlCl3, FeCl3, and SnCl4 catalyzed ones were nonselective. PMID:26421007

Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Light-Induced Mycelial Brown Film Formation in Lentinula edodes.

PubMed

Tang, Li Hua; Tan, Qi; Bao, Da Peng; Zhang, Xue Hong; Jian, Hua Hua; Li, Yan; Yang, Rui Heng; Wang, Ying

2016-01-01

Light-induced brown film (BF) formation by the vegetative mycelium of Lentinula edodes is important for ensuring the quantity and quality of this edible mushroom. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanism underlying this phenotype is still unclear. In this study, a comparative proteomic analysis of mycelial BF formation in L. edodes was performed. Seventy-three protein spots with at least a twofold difference in abundance on two-dimensional electrophoresis (2DE) maps were observed, and 52 of them were successfully identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization tandem time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/TOF/MS). These proteins were classified into the following functional categories: small molecule metabolic processes (39%), response to oxidative stress (5%), and organic substance catabolic processes (5%), followed by oxidation-reduction processes (3%), single-organism catabolic processes (3%), positive regulation of protein complex assembly (3%), and protein metabolic processes (3%). Interestingly, four of the proteins that were upregulated in response to light exposure were nucleoside diphosphate kinases. To our knowledge, this is the first proteomic analysis of the mechanism of BF formation in L. edodes . Our data will provide a foundation for future detailed investigations of the proteins linked to BF formation.

Spiro-(1,1‧)-bipyrrolidinium tetrafluoroborate salt as high voltage electrolyte for electric double layer capacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Xuewen; Ruan, Dianbo; Wu, Changcheng; Wang, Jing; Shi, Zhiqiang

2014-11-01

A novel quaternary ammonium salt based on spiro-(1,1‧)-bipyrolidinium tetrafluoroborate (SBP-BF4) has been synthesized and dissolved in propylene carbonate (PC) with 1.5 mol L-1 (M) concentration for electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs). The physic-chemical properties and electrochemical performance of SBP-BF4/PC electrolyte are investigated. Compared with the standard electrolyte 1.5 M TEMA-BF4 in PC, the novel SBP-BF4/PC electrolyte exhibited much better electrochemical performance due to its smaller cation size, lower viscosity and higher conductivity. The specific discharge capacitance of activated carbon electrode based EDLCs using SBP-BF4/PC electrolyte is 120 F g-1, the energy density and power density can reach 31 kW kg-1 and 6938 W kg-1, respectively, when the working voltage is 2.7 V and current density is 50 mA g-1. The withstand voltage of activated carbon based EDLCs with SBP-BF4/PC electrolyte can reach to 3.2 V, where the stable discharge capacitance and energy density are 121 F g-1 and 43 Wh kg-1, respectively.

Customized versus population-based growth curves: prediction of low body fat percent at term corrected gestational age following preterm birth.

PubMed

Law, Tameeka L; Katikaneni, Lakshmi D; Taylor, Sarah N; Korte, Jeffrey E; Ebeling, Myla D; Wagner, Carol L; Newman, Roger B

2012-07-01

Compare customized versus population-based growth curves for identification of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) and body fat percent (BF%) among preterm infants. Prospective cohort study of 204 preterm infants classified as SGA or appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA) by population-based and customized growth curves. BF% was determined by air-displacement plethysmography. Differences between groups were compared using bivariable and multivariable linear and logistic regression analyses. Customized curves reclassified 30% of the preterm infants as SGA. SGA infants identified by customized method only had significantly lower BF% (13.8 ± 6.0) than the AGA (16.2 ± 6.3, p = 0.02) infants and similar to the SGA infants classified by both methods (14.6 ± 6.7, p = 0.51). Customized growth curves were a significant predictor of BF% (p = 0.02), whereas population-based growth curves were not a significant independent predictor of BF% (p = 0.50) at term corrected gestational age. Customized growth potential improves the differentiation of SGA infants and low BF% compared with a standard population-based growth curve among a cohort of preterm infants.

High genetic variability of HIV-1 in female sex workers from Argentina.

PubMed

Pando, María A; Eyzaguirre, Lindsay M; Carrion, Gladys; Montano, Silvia M; Sanchez, José L; Carr, Jean K; Avila, María M

2007-08-13

A cross-sectional study on 625 Female Sex Workers (FSWs) was conducted between 2000 and 2002 in 6 cities in Argentina. This study describes the genetic diversity and the resistance profile of the HIV-infected subjects. Seventeen samples from HIV positive FSWs were genotyped by env HMA, showing the presence of 9 subtype F, 6 subtype B and 2 subtype C. Sequence analysis of the protease/RT region on 16 of these showed that 10 were BF recombinants, three were subtype B, two were subtype C, and one sample presented a dual infection with subtype B and a BF recombinant. Full-length genomes of five of the protease/RT BF recombinants were also sequenced, showing that three of them were CRF12_BF. One FSW had a dual HIV-1 infection with subtype B and a BF recombinant. The B sections of the BF recombinant clustered closely with the pure B sequence isolated from the same patient. Major resistance mutations to antiretroviral drugs were found in 3 of 16 (18.8%) strains. The genetic diversity of HIV strains among FSWs in Argentina was extensive; about three-quarters of the samples were infected with diverse BF recombinants, near twenty percent had primary ART resistance and one sample presented a dual infection. Heterosexual transmission of genetically diverse, drug resistant strains among FSWs and their clients represents an important and underestimated threat, in Argentina.

Identifying Differences Between Biochemical Failure and Cure: Incidence Rates and Predictors

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

Vicini, Frank A., E-mail: fvicini@beaumont.edu; Shah, Chirag; Kestin, Larry

2011-11-15

Background: Patients treated with radiation therapy (RT) for prostate cancer were evaluated to estimate the length of time required to document biochemical cure (BC) after treatment and the variables associated with long-term treatment efficacy. Patients and Methods: 2,100 patients received RT alone for localized prostate carcinoma (external-beam RT, n = 1,504; brachytherapy alone, n = 241; or brachytherapy + pelvic radiation, n = 355). The median external-beam dose was 68.4 Gy, and the median follow-up time was 8.6 years. Biochemical failure (BF) was defined according to the Phoenix definition. Results: Biochemical failure was experienced by 685 patients (32.6%). The medianmore » times to BF for low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups were 6.0, 5.6, and 4.5 years respectively (p < 0.001). The average annual incidence rates of BF for years 1-5, 5-10,11-15, and 16-20 in low-risk patients were 2.0%, 2.0%, 0.3%, and 0.06% (p < 0.001); for intermediate-risk patients, 4%, 3%, 0.3%, and 0% (p < 0.001); and for high-risk patients, 10.0%, 5.0%, 0.3%, and 0.3% (p < 0.001). After 5 years of treatment, 36.9% of all patients experienced BF. The percentage of total failures occurring during years 1-5, 5-10, 11-15, and 16-20 were 48.7%, 43.5%, 6.5%, and 1.3% for low-risk patients; 64.0%, 32.2%, 3.8%, and 0% for intermediate-risk patients; and 71.9%, 25.9%, 1.1%, and 1.1% for high-risk patients, respectively. Increasing time to nadir was associated with increased time to BF. On multivariate analysis, factors significantly associated with 10-year BC included prostate-specific antigen nadir and time to nadir. Conclusions: The incidence rates for BF did not plateau until later than 10 years after treatment, suggesting that extended follow-up time is required to monitor patients after treatment. Prostate-specific antigen nadir and time to nadir have the strongest association with long-term BC.« less

Novel flowcytometry-based approach of malignant cell detection in body fluids using an automated hematology analyzer

PubMed Central

Tabe, Yoko; Takemura, Hiroyuki; Kimura, Konobu; Takahashi, Toshihiro; Yang, Haeun; Tsuchiya, Koji; Konishi, Aya; Uchihashi, Kinya; Horii, Takashi; Ohsaka, Akimichi

2018-01-01

Morphological microscopic examinations of nucleated cells in body fluid (BF) samples are performed to screen malignancy. However, the morphological differentiation is time-consuming and labor-intensive. This study aimed to develop a new flowcytometry-based gating analysis mode “XN-BF gating algorithm” to detect malignant cells using an automated hematology analyzer, Sysmex XN-1000. XN-BF mode was equipped with WDF white blood cell (WBC) differential channel. We added two algorithms to the WDF channel: Rule 1 detects larger and clumped cell signals compared to the leukocytes, targeting the clustered malignant cells; Rule 2 detects middle sized mononuclear cells containing less granules than neutrophils with similar fluorescence signal to monocytes, targeting hematological malignant cells and solid tumor cells. BF samples that meet, at least, one rule were detected as malignant. To evaluate this novel gating algorithm, 92 various BF samples were collected. Manual microscopic differentiation with the May-Grunwald Giemsa stain and WBC count with hemocytometer were also performed. The performance of these three methods were evaluated by comparing with the cytological diagnosis. The XN-BF gating algorithm achieved sensitivity of 63.0% and specificity of 87.8% with 68.0% for positive predictive value and 85.1% for negative predictive value in detecting malignant-cell positive samples. Manual microscopic WBC differentiation and WBC count demonstrated 70.4% and 66.7% of sensitivities, and 96.9% and 92.3% of specificities, respectively. The XN-BF gating algorithm can be a feasible tool in hematology laboratories for prompt screening of malignant cells in various BF samples. PMID:29425230

Novel flowcytometry-based approach of malignant cell detection in body fluids using an automated hematology analyzer.

PubMed

Ai, Tomohiko; Tabe, Yoko; Takemura, Hiroyuki; Kimura, Konobu; Takahashi, Toshihiro; Yang, Haeun; Tsuchiya, Koji; Konishi, Aya; Uchihashi, Kinya; Horii, Takashi; Ohsaka, Akimichi

2018-01-01

Morphological microscopic examinations of nucleated cells in body fluid (BF) samples are performed to screen malignancy. However, the morphological differentiation is time-consuming and labor-intensive. This study aimed to develop a new flowcytometry-based gating analysis mode "XN-BF gating algorithm" to detect malignant cells using an automated hematology analyzer, Sysmex XN-1000. XN-BF mode was equipped with WDF white blood cell (WBC) differential channel. We added two algorithms to the WDF channel: Rule 1 detects larger and clumped cell signals compared to the leukocytes, targeting the clustered malignant cells; Rule 2 detects middle sized mononuclear cells containing less granules than neutrophils with similar fluorescence signal to monocytes, targeting hematological malignant cells and solid tumor cells. BF samples that meet, at least, one rule were detected as malignant. To evaluate this novel gating algorithm, 92 various BF samples were collected. Manual microscopic differentiation with the May-Grunwald Giemsa stain and WBC count with hemocytometer were also performed. The performance of these three methods were evaluated by comparing with the cytological diagnosis. The XN-BF gating algorithm achieved sensitivity of 63.0% and specificity of 87.8% with 68.0% for positive predictive value and 85.1% for negative predictive value in detecting malignant-cell positive samples. Manual microscopic WBC differentiation and WBC count demonstrated 70.4% and 66.7% of sensitivities, and 96.9% and 92.3% of specificities, respectively. The XN-BF gating algorithm can be a feasible tool in hematology laboratories for prompt screening of malignant cells in various BF samples.

Foxp3-positive macrophages display immunosuppressive properties and promote tumor growth

PubMed Central

Zorro Manrique, Soraya; Duque Correa, Maria Adelaida; Hoelzinger, Dominique B.; Dominguez, Ana Lucia; Mirza, Noweeda; Lin, Hsi-Hsien; Stein-Streilein, Joan; Gordon, Siamon

2011-01-01

Regulatory T cells (T reg cells) are characterized by the expression of the forkhead lineage-specific transcription factor Foxp3, and their main function is to suppress T cells. While evaluating T reg cells, we identified a population of Foxp3-positive cells that were CD11b+F4/80+CD68+, indicating macrophage origin. These cells were observed in spleen, lymph nodes, bone marrow, thymus, liver, and other tissues of naive animals. To characterize this subpopulation of macrophages, we devised a strategy to purify CD11b+F4/80+Foxp3+ macrophages using Foxp3-GFP mice. Analysis of CD11b+F4/80+Foxp3+ macrophage function indicated that these cells inhibited the proliferation of T cells, whereas Foxp3− macrophages did not. Suppression of T cell proliferation was mediated through soluble factors. Foxp3− macrophages acquired Foxp3 expression after activation, which conferred inhibitory properties that were indistinguishable from natural Foxp3+ macrophages. The cytokine and transcriptional profiles of Foxp3+ macrophages were distinct from those of Foxp3− macrophages, indicating that these cells have different biological functions. Functional in vivo analyses indicated that CD11b+F4/80+Foxp3+ macrophages are important in tumor promotion and the induction of T reg cell conversion. For the first time, these studies demonstrate the existence of a distinct subpopulation of naturally occurring macrophage regulatory cells in which expression of Foxp3 correlates with suppressive function. PMID:21670203

Molecular and mesoscopic study of ionic liquids and their use as solvents of active agents released by polymeric vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramos-Rodríguez, Daniel-Apolinar; Rodríguez-Hidalgo, María-del-Rosario; Soto-Figueroa, César; Vicente, Luis

2010-03-01

This work explores the diffusivity of the drug albendazole contained in a polymeric vehicle, Styrene-Divinylbenzene (ST-DVD), when it is subject to different environments. The environments consist of water and three different ionic liquids. First, the solubility parameters of these ionic liquids, [BMIM][PF6], [HMIM][Br] and [BMIM][BF4], and albendazole were evaluated by means of molecular dynamics employing COMPASS force-field and a NPT ensemble at 298 K. Then a mesoscopic simulation using Dissipative Particle Dynamics (DPD) was used. In the presence of ionic liquids the albendazole exhibits a diffusivity in [BMIM][PF6] around ten times that shown in [BMIM][BF4] or [HMIM][Br]. This is connected with the corresponding solvent power. The results obtained from these molecular and mesoscopic simulations are consistent with reported experimental results and are useful to predict and evaluate the solvent power of ionic liquids applied to drugs of pharmaceutical use.

Profile 2005 : softwood sawmills in the United States and Canada

Treesearch

Henry Spelter; Matthew Alderman

2005-01-01

The softwood lumber industry in the United States and Canada consists of about 1,067 sawmills. In 2005 these sawmills had a combined capacity of 189 million m3 (80 × 109 bf). In 2004, they employed about 99,000 people and produced 172 million m3 (nominal) (73.0 × 109 bf) of lumber. In the process, they consumed about 280 million m3 (9.9 × 109 ft3) of timber. Employee...

Circuit resistance training in women with normal weight obesity syndrome: body composition, cardiometabolic and echocardiographic parameters, and cardiovascular and skeletal muscle fitness.

PubMed

Ferreira, Fabiano C; Bertucci, Danilo R; Barbosa, Marina R; Nunes, João E; Botero, João P; Rodrigues, Maria F; Shiguemoto, Gilberto E; Santoro, Valdir; Verzola, Ana C; Nonaka, Rodrigo O; Verzola, Roberto M; Baldissera, Vilmar; Perez, Sérgio E

2017-01-01

Normal weight obesity (NWO) syndrome has been characterized in subjects with normal Body Mass Index (BMI) and high body fat mass percentage (BF%>30 for women) being a risk factor for cardiometabolic dysregulation and cardiovascular mortality. This study evaluated whether circuit resistance training (CRT) improves body composition, heart size and function, cardiometabolic parameters, and cardiorespiratory, cardiovascular and skeletal muscle fitness in women with NWO. Data are means (95% Confidence Interval). Twenty-three women participated: 10 NWO-CRT (baseline: BMI=22.4 [21.4-23.3] kg/m2; BF%=44.5 [41.0-48.0]%) performed CRT; and 13 untrained NWO-control (baseline: BMI=21.7 [20.8-22.7] kg/m2; BF%=37.8 [34.6-41.1]%). At baseline and after 10 weeks were performed/measured dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, echocardiography, blood tests, arterial pressure, exercise testing, and total-overload-by-training-session (TOL). At baseline, the NWO-CRT exhibited larger BF (27.28 [23.9-30.6] kg) than NWO-control (22.41 [19.5-25.3] kg) (P=0.0227). After training, NWO-CRT: reduced 8 kg of BF (P=0.000002); became BF% lower than NWO-control (33.1 [30.1-36.0] <37.0 [34.3-39.6]%, P=0.0423), with 30% of NWO-CRT subjects becoming without-obesity; reduced 3 kg in trunk fat mass (P=0.000005); showed fasting glucose (72.8 [69.4-76.2] mg/dL) smaller than NWO-control (81.7 [78.6-84.8] mg/dL) (P=0.004); increased TOL (5087.5 [4142.5-6032.5] to 6963.3 [6226.4-7700.2] rep.kg, P=0.0004); increased load at VO2peak (122.5 [106.8-138.2] to 137.5 [118.18-156.82] W, P=0.0051); reduced double product/load at VO2peak ratio (277.4 [222.1-332.8] to 237.7 [194.2-281.2] mmHg.bpm/W, P=0.0015); and increased left ventricular mass/body surface area ratio (84.29 [78.98-89.6] to 90.29 [81.45-99.12] g/m2, P=0.0215). CRT reduced BF% and generated cardiometabolic, cardiac, skeletal muscle and cardiovascular benefits, being a useful strategy to combat the normal weight obesity syndrome in women.

The effect of various quantum mechanically derived partial atomic charges on the bulk properties of chloride-based ionic liquids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zolghadr, Amin Reza; Ghatee, Mohammad Hadi; Moosavi, Fatemeh

2016-08-01

Partial atomic charges using various quantum mechanical calculations for [Cnmim]Cl (n = 1, 4) ionic liquids (ILs) are obtained and used for development of molecular dynamics simulation (MD) force fields. The isolated ion pairs are optimized using HF, B3LYP, and MP2 methods for electronic structure with 6-311++G(d,p) basis set. Partial atomic charges are assigned to the atomic center with CHELPG and NBO methods. The effect of these sets of partial charges on the static and dynamic properties of ILs is evaluated by performing a series of MD simulations and comparing the essential thermodynamic properties with the available experimental data and available molecular dynamics simulation results. In contrast to the general trends reported for ionic liquids with BF4, PF6, and iodide anions (in which restrained electrostatic potential (RESP) charges are preferred), partial charges derived by B3LYP-NBO method are relatively good in prediction of the structural, dynamical, and thermodynamic energetic properties of the chloride based ILs.

The coupling between stability and ion pair formation in magnesium electrolytes from first-principles quantum mechanics and classical molecular dynamics

DOE PAGES

Rajput, Nav Nidhi; Qu, Xiaohuui; Sa, Niya; ...

2015-02-10

Here in this work we uncover a novel effect between concentration dependent ion pair formation and anion stability at reducing potentials, e.g., at the metal anode. Through comprehensive calculations using both first-principles as well as well-benchmarked classical molecular dynamics over a matrix of electrolytes, covering solvents and salt anions with a broad range in chemistry, we elucidate systematic correlations between molecular level interactions and composite electrolyte properties, such as electrochemical stability, solvation structure, and dynamics. We find that Mg electrolytes are highly prone to ion pair formation, even at modest concentrations, for a wide range of solvents with different dielectricmore » constants, which have implications for dynamics as well as charge transfer. Specifically, we observe that, at Mg metal potentials, the ion pair undergoes partial reduction at the Mg cation center (Mg 2+ -> Mg +), which competes with the charge transfer mechanism and can activate the anion to render it susceptible to decomposition. Specifically, TFSI exhibits a significant bond weakening while paired with the transient, partially reduced Mg +. In contrast, BH 4 $-$ and BF 4 $-$ are shown to be chemically stable in a reduced ion pair configuration. Furthermore, we observe that higher order glymes as well as DMSO improve the solubility of Mg salts, but only the longer glyme chains reduce the dynamics of the ions in solution. This information provides critical design metrics for future electrolytes as it elucidates a close connection between bulk solvation and cathodic stability as well as the dynamics of the salt.« less

Classic cadherin expressions balance postnatal neuronal positioning and dendrite dynamics to elaborate the specific cytoarchitecture of the mouse cortical area.

PubMed

Egusa, Saki F; Inoue, Yukiko U; Asami, Junko; Terakawa, Youhei W; Hoshino, Mikio; Inoue, Takayoshi

2016-04-01

A unique feature of the mammalian cerebral cortex is in its tangential parcellation via anatomical and functional differences. However, the cellular and/or molecular machinery involved in cortical arealization remain largely unknown. Here we map expression profiles of classic cadherins in the postnatal mouse barrel field of the primary somatosensory area (S1BF) and generate a novel bacterial artificial chromosome transgenic (BAC-Tg) mouse line selectively illuminating nuclei of cadherin-6 (Cdh6)-expressing layer IV barrel neurons to confirm that tangential cellular assemblage of S1BF is established by postnatal day 5 (P5). When we electroporate the cadherins expressed in both barrel neurons and thalamo-cortical axon (TCA) terminals limited to the postnatal layer IV neurons, S1BF cytoarchitecture is disorganized with excess elongation of dendrites at P7. Upon delivery of dominant negative molecules for all classic cadherins, tangential cellular positioning and biased dendritic arborization of barrel neurons are significantly altered. These results underscore the value of classic cadherin-mediated sorting among neuronal cell bodies, dendrites and TCA terminals in postnatally elaborating the S1BF-specific tangential cytoarchitecture. Additionally, how the "protocortex" machinery affects classic cadherin expression profiles in the process of cortical arealization is examined and discussed. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd and the Japan Neuroscience Society. All rights reserved.

Comparison between the air displacement method and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry for estimation of body fat.

PubMed

Koda, M; Ando, F; Niino, N; Tsuzuku, S; Shimokata, H

2000-04-01

Air displacement plethysmography (ADP) is a method for the determining percent body fat (%BF) using the two-compartment model, in which the body is partitioned into body-fat mass and fat-free mass (FFM). Although this model assumes a constant density of FFM as 1.10 g/ml, its density may depend upon the bone mineral content (BMC) and total body water (TBW) which vary with age, gender, and race/ethnicity. This study compared %BF determined from ADP (ADP%BF) with %BF obtained by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA%BF), and also investigated the effects of BMC, TBW, and other factors on its value. The subjects were 721 female and male Japanese aged 40 to 79 years. Body density was measured by ADP and %BF was calculated using Brozek et al's equation. BMC and body-fat volume were measured using DXA, and TBW was measured by multifrequency bioelectrical impedance. A series of anthropometric measurements was taken. Although ADP%BF was highly correlated with DXA%BF (female: r = 0.89, male: r = 0.90) (p < 0.001), ADP%BF differed significantly from DXA%BF (female: -1.30 +/- 0.14% (mean +/- s.e.m.), male: 1.22 +/- 0.13%) (p < 0.001). The difference in %BF (ADP%BF-DXA%BF) was negatively associated with BMC/FFM but not with TBW/FFM in both genders. The difference in %BF was also positively correlated with waist circumference. Considering previous studies, this result may be explained by the underestimation of DXA%BF, rather than by the overestimation of ADP%BF. In conclusion, ADP may be a useful method to measure %BF. However, BMC should be taken into consideration. Furthermore, DXA%BF may be underestimated in people with large waists.

Three-Dimensional Modeling of Flow and Thermochemical Behavior in a Blast Furnace

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Yansong; Guo, Baoyu; Chew, Sheng; Austin, Peter; Yu, Aibing

2015-02-01

An ironmaking blast furnace (BF) is a complex high-temperature moving bed reactor involving counter-, co- and cross-current flows of gas, liquid and solid, coupled with heat and mass exchange and chemical reactions. Two-dimensional (2D) models were widely used for understanding its internal state in the past. In this paper, a three-dimensional (3D) CFX-based mathematical model is developed for describing the internal state of a BF in terms of multiphase flow and the related thermochemical behavior, as well as process indicators. This model considers the intense interactions between gas, solid and liquid phases, and also their competition for the space. The model is applied to a BF covering from the burden surface at the top to the liquid surface in the hearth, where the raceway cavity is considered explicitly. The results show that the key in-furnace phenomena such as flow/temperature patterns and component distributions of solid, gas and liquid phases can be described and characterized in different regions inside the BF, including the gas and liquids flow circumferentially over the 3D raceway surface. The in-furnace distributions of key performance indicators such as reduction degree and gas utilization can also be predicted. This model offers a cost-effective tool to understand and control the complex BF flow and performance.

Differential Editosome Protein Function between Life Cycle Stages of Trypanosoma brucei *

PubMed Central

McDermott, Suzanne M.; Guo, Xuemin; Carnes, Jason; Stuart, Kenneth

2015-01-01

Uridine insertion and deletion RNA editing generates functional mitochondrial mRNAs in Trypanosoma brucei. The mRNAs are differentially edited in bloodstream form (BF) and procyclic form (PF) life cycle stages, and this correlates with the differential utilization of glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation between the stages. The mechanism that controls this differential editing is unknown. Editing is catalyzed by multiprotein ∼20S editosomes that contain endonuclease, 3′-terminal uridylyltransferase, exonuclease, and ligase activities. These editosomes also contain KREPB5 and KREPA3 proteins, which have no functional catalytic motifs, but they are essential for parasite viability, editing, and editosome integrity in BF cells. We show here that repression of KREPB5 or KREPA3 is also lethal in PF, but the effects on editosome structure differ from those in BF. In addition, we found that point mutations in KREPB5 or KREPA3 differentially affect cell growth, editosome integrity, and RNA editing between BF and PF stages. These results indicate that the functions of KREPB5 and KREPA3 editosome proteins are adjusted between the life cycle stages. This implies that these proteins are involved in the processes that control differential editing and that the 20S editosomes differ between the life cycle stages. PMID:26304125

Sawmill profile : new Forest Products Lab report defines the makeup of North America's softwood sawmill industry

Treesearch

Henry Spelter; Matthew Alderman

2005-01-01

As of July 2005, the main stream of the softwood lumber industry in the U.S. and Canada consisted of about 1,067sawmills. These sawmills had a combined capacity of 189 million m3 (80 billion BF), employed about 99,000, produced about 172 million m3 (nominal, 73 billion BF) of lumber, and in the process consumed about 280 million m3 of wood.

The impact of a 3-year after-school obesity prevention program in elementary school children.

PubMed

Yin, Zenong; Moore, Justin B; Johnson, Maribeth H; Vernon, Marlo M; Gutin, Bernard

2012-02-01

Children tend to be sedentary during the after-school hours, and this has deleterious effects on their health. The objective of the present study was to determine the effects of a 3-year after-school physical activity (PA) program, without restriction of dietary energy intake, on percent body fat (%BF), cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), and cardiometabolic markers in children. A cluster randomization design was employed. A total of 574 3rd grade children from 18 elementary schools in the southeastern United States participated. The intervention consisted of 80 minutes of age-appropriate moderate-to-vigorous PA each school day. The main outcomes of interest were %BF measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry; CRF measured by heart rate in response to a submaximal step test; nonfasting total and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C); and resting blood pressure (BP). Intent-to-treat analyses showed significant treatment by time interactions for %BF (p = 0.009) and CRF (p = 0.0003). The change pattern of the means suggested that %BF and CRF in intervention children improved relative to control children during the school months, rebounding to the levels of control children over the summers following years 1 and 2. Year-by-year analyses of what occurred during the months when the program was offered revealed dose–response relations for %BF and CRF, such that the clearest beneficial effects were seen for those youth who attended at least 60% of the after-school sessions. No significant intervention effects were seen for cholesterol or BP. An after-school PA program was effective in reducing adiposity and improving CRF, especially in the children who attended the sessions at least 3 days/week. However, the favorable effects on %BF and CRF were lost over the summer. Thus, it is critical to incorporate strategies that attract and retain the children to receive an adequate dose of PA year-round.

A composite score combining waist circumference and body mass index more accurately predicts body fat percentage in 6- to 13-year-old children.

PubMed

Aeberli, I; Gut-Knabenhans, M; Kusche-Ammann, R S; Molinari, L; Zimmermann, M B

2013-02-01

Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) are widely used to predict % body fat (BF) and classify degrees of pediatric adiposity. However, both measures have limitations. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether a combination of WC and BMI would more accurately predict %BF than either alone. In a nationally representative sample of 2,303 6- to 13-year-old Swiss children, weight, height, and WC were measured, and %BF was determined from multiple skinfold thicknesses. Regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to evaluate the combination of WC and BMI in predicting %BF against WC or BMI alone. An optimized composite score (CS) was generated. A quadratic polynomial combination of WC and BMI led to a better prediction of %BF (r (2) = 0.68) compared with the two measures alone (r (2) = 0.58-0.62). The areas under the ROC curve for the CS [0.6 * WC-SDS + 0.4 * BMI-SDS] ranged from 0.962 ± 0.0053 (overweight girls) to 0.982 ± 0.0046 (obese boys) and were somewhat greater than the AUCs for either BMI or WC alone. At a given specificity, the sensitivity of the prediction of overweight and obesity based on the CS was higher than that based on either WC or BMI alone, although the improvement was small. Both BMI and WC are good predictors of %BF in primary school children. However, a composite score incorporating both measures increased sensitivity at a constant specificity as compared to the individual measures. It may therefore be a useful tool for clinical and epidemiological studies of pediatric adiposity.

Tumor Metabolism and Blood Flow as Assessed by PET Varies by Tumor Subtype in Locally Advanced Breast Cancer

PubMed Central

Specht, Jennifer M.; Kurland, Brenda F.; Montgomery, Susan K.; Dunnwald, Lisa K.; Doot, Robert K.; Gralow, Julie R.; Ellis, Georgina K.; Linden, Hannah M.; Livingston, Robert B.; Allison, Kimberly H.; Schubert, Erin K.; Mankoff, David A.

2010-01-01

Purpose Dynamic PET imaging can identify patterns of breast cancer metabolism and perfusion in patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NC) that are predictive of response. This analysis examines tumor metabolism and perfusion by tumor subtype. Experimental Design Tumor subtype was defined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in 71 patients with LABC undergoing NC. Subtype was defined as luminal (ER/PR positive), triple-negative (TN; ER/PR negative, HER2 negative) and HER2 (ER/PR negative, HER2 over-expressing). Metabolic rate (MRFDG) and blood flow (BF) were calculated from PET imaging prior to NC. Pathologic complete response (pCR) to NC was classified as pCR versus other. Results Twenty-five (35%) of 71 patients had TN tumors, 6 (8%) were HER2 and 40 (56%) were luminal. MRFDG for TN tumors was on average 67% greater than for luminal tumors (95% CI 9% – 156%), and average MRFDG/BF ratio was 53% greater in TN compared to luminal tumors (95% CI 9% – 114%) (p < 0.05 for both). Average blood flow levels did not differ by subtype (p = 0.73). Most luminal tumors showed relatively low MRFDG and BF (and did not achieve pCR); high MRFDG was generally matched with high BF in luminal tumors, and predicted pCR. This was not true in TN tumors. Conclusions The relationship between breast tumor metabolism and perfusion differed by subtype. The high MRFDG/BF ratio that predicts poor response to NC was more common in TN tumors. Metabolism and perfusion measures may identify subsets of tumors susceptible and resistant to NC and may help direct targeted therapy. PMID:20460489

Initial North American experience with botulinum toxin type A for treatment of anismus.

PubMed

Joo, J S; Agachan, F; Wolff, B; Nogueras, J J; Wexner, S D

1996-10-01

Botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A), produced by Clostridium botulinum, is a potent neurotoxin. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of BTX-A for treatment of anismus. All patients treated with BTX-A for anismus were evaluated. Eligibility criteria included a history of chronic assisted evacuation (laxatives, enemas, or suppositories), demonstration of anismus by cinedefecogram and electromyography, and failure of a minimum of three sessions of supervised biofeedback therapy (BF). Contingent on body mass, 6 to 15 units of BTX-A was injected bilaterally under electromyography guidance into the external sphincter or the puborectalis muscle. Treatment was repeated as necessary for a maximum of three sessions during a three-month period. Success was considered as discontinuation of evacuatory assistance and was evaluated between one and three months and again at up to one year. Between July 1994 and May 1995, four patients ranging from 29 to 82 years in age (2 females, 2 males) had anismus that failed to respond to between 3 and 15 biofeedback sessions. All patients improved between one and three months after BTX-A injection, and two had sustained improvement for a range of three months to one year. There was no morbidity or mortality associated with BTX-A injection. BTX-A is extremely successful for temporary treatment of anismus that is refractory to BF management. However, because the mechanism of action is short, longer term results are only 50 percent successful. Hopefully, modifications in the strain of BTX-A and dose administered will allow longer periods of success or a repeat trial of BF. Nonetheless, this preliminary report is very encouraging in offering a method of managing this recalcitrant condition.

The Role of Complement in Cnidarian-Dinoflagellate Symbiosis and Immune Challenge in the Sea Anemone Aiptasia pallida

PubMed Central

Poole, Angela Z.; Kitchen, Sheila A.; Weis, Virginia M.

2016-01-01

The complement system is an innate immune pathway that in vertebrates, is responsible for initial recognition and ultimately phagocytosis and destruction of microbes. Several complement molecules including C3, Factor B, and mannose binding lectin associated serine proteases (MASP) have been characterized in invertebrates and while most studies have focused on their conserved role in defense against pathogens, little is known about their role in managing beneficial microbes. The purpose of this study was to (1) characterize complement pathway genes in the symbiotic sea anemone Aiptasia pallida, (2) investigate the evolution of complement genes in invertebrates, and (3) examine the potential dual role of complement genes Factor B and MASP in the onset and maintenance of cnidarian-dinoflagellate symbiosis and immune challenge using qPCR based studies. The results demonstrate that A. pallida has multiple Factor B genes (Ap_Bf-1, Ap_Bf-2a, and Ap_Bf-2b) and one MASP gene (Ap_MASP). Phylogenetic analysis indicates that the evolutionary history of complement genes is complex, and there have been many gene duplications or gene loss events, even within members of the same phylum. Gene expression analyses revealed a potential role for complement in both onset and maintenance of cnidarian-dinoflagellate symbiosis and immune challenge. Specifically, Ap_Bf-1 and Ap_MASP are significantly upregulated in the light at the onset of symbiosis and in response to challenge with the pathogen Serratia marcescens suggesting that they play a role in the initial recognition of both beneficial and harmful microbes. Ap_Bf-2b in contrast, was generally downregulated during the onset and maintenance of symbiosis and in response to challenge with S. marcescens. Therefore, the exact role of Ap_Bf-2b in response to microbes remains unclear, but the results suggest that the presence of microbes leads to repressed expression. Together, these results indicate functional divergence between Ap_Bf-1 and Ap_Bf-2b, and that Ap_Bf-1 and Ap_MASP may be functioning together in an ancestral hybrid of the lectin and alternative complement pathways. Overall, this study provides information on the role of the complement system in a basal metazoan and its role in host-microbe interactions. PMID:27148208

The Role of Complement in Cnidarian-Dinoflagellate Symbiosis and Immune Challenge in the Sea Anemone Aiptasia pallida.

PubMed

Poole, Angela Z; Kitchen, Sheila A; Weis, Virginia M

2016-01-01

The complement system is an innate immune pathway that in vertebrates, is responsible for initial recognition and ultimately phagocytosis and destruction of microbes. Several complement molecules including C3, Factor B, and mannose binding lectin associated serine proteases (MASP) have been characterized in invertebrates and while most studies have focused on their conserved role in defense against pathogens, little is known about their role in managing beneficial microbes. The purpose of this study was to (1) characterize complement pathway genes in the symbiotic sea anemone Aiptasia pallida, (2) investigate the evolution of complement genes in invertebrates, and (3) examine the potential dual role of complement genes Factor B and MASP in the onset and maintenance of cnidarian-dinoflagellate symbiosis and immune challenge using qPCR based studies. The results demonstrate that A. pallida has multiple Factor B genes (Ap_Bf-1, Ap_Bf-2a, and Ap_Bf-2b) and one MASP gene (Ap_MASP). Phylogenetic analysis indicates that the evolutionary history of complement genes is complex, and there have been many gene duplications or gene loss events, even within members of the same phylum. Gene expression analyses revealed a potential role for complement in both onset and maintenance of cnidarian-dinoflagellate symbiosis and immune challenge. Specifically, Ap_Bf-1 and Ap_MASP are significantly upregulated in the light at the onset of symbiosis and in response to challenge with the pathogen Serratia marcescens suggesting that they play a role in the initial recognition of both beneficial and harmful microbes. Ap_Bf-2b in contrast, was generally downregulated during the onset and maintenance of symbiosis and in response to challenge with S. marcescens. Therefore, the exact role of Ap_Bf-2b in response to microbes remains unclear, but the results suggest that the presence of microbes leads to repressed expression. Together, these results indicate functional divergence between Ap_Bf-1 and Ap_Bf-2b, and that Ap_Bf-1 and Ap_MASP may be functioning together in an ancestral hybrid of the lectin and alternative complement pathways. Overall, this study provides information on the role of the complement system in a basal metazoan and its role in host-microbe interactions.

Li + solvation and kinetics of Li +–BF 4 -/PF 6 - ion pairs in ethylene carbonate. A molecular dynamics study with classical rate theories

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

Chang, Tsun-Mei; Dang, Liem X.

Using our polarizable force-field models and employing classical rate theories of chemical reactions, we examine in this paper the ethylene carbonate (EC) exchange process between the first and second solvation shells around Li + and the dissociation kinetics of ion pairs Li +–[BF 4] and Li +–[PF 6] in this solvent. We calculate the exchange rates using transition state theory and correct them with transmission coefficients computed by the reactive flux, Impey, Madden, and McDonald approaches, and Grote-Hynes theory. We found that the residence times of EC around Li + ions varied from 60 to 450 ps, depending on themore » correction method used. We found that the relaxation times changed significantly from Li +–[BF 4] to Li +–[PF 6] ion pairs in EC. Finally, our results also show that, in addition to affecting the free energy of dissociation in EC, the anion type also significantly influences the dissociation kinetics of ion pairing.« less

Li + solvation and kinetics of Li +–BF 4 -/PF 6 - ion pairs in ethylene carbonate. A molecular dynamics study with classical rate theories

DOE PAGES

Chang, Tsun-Mei; Dang, Liem X.

2017-07-19

Using our polarizable force-field models and employing classical rate theories of chemical reactions, we examine in this paper the ethylene carbonate (EC) exchange process between the first and second solvation shells around Li + and the dissociation kinetics of ion pairs Li +–[BF 4] and Li +–[PF 6] in this solvent. We calculate the exchange rates using transition state theory and correct them with transmission coefficients computed by the reactive flux, Impey, Madden, and McDonald approaches, and Grote-Hynes theory. We found that the residence times of EC around Li + ions varied from 60 to 450 ps, depending on themore » correction method used. We found that the relaxation times changed significantly from Li +–[BF 4] to Li +–[PF 6] ion pairs in EC. Finally, our results also show that, in addition to affecting the free energy of dissociation in EC, the anion type also significantly influences the dissociation kinetics of ion pairing.« less

A Population Survey in Italy Based on the ICF Classification: Recognizing Persons with Severe Disability

PubMed Central

Leonardi, Matilde; Martinuzzi, Andrea; Meucci, Paolo; Sala, Marina; Russo, Emanuela; Buffoni, Mara; Raggi, Alberto

2012-01-01

Aim of this paper is to describe functioning of subjects with “severe disability” collected with a protocol based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health. It included sections on body functions and structures (BF and BS), activities and participation (A&P), and environmental factors (EF). In A&P, performance without personal support (WPS) was added to standard capacity and performance. Persons with severe disability were those reporting a number of very severe/complete problems in BF or in A&P-capacity superior to mean + 1SD. Correlations between BF and A&P and differences between capacity, performance-WPS, and performance were assessed with Spearman's coefficient. Out of 1051, 200 subjects were considered as severely disabled. Mild to moderate correlations between BF and A&P were reported (between 0.148 and 0.394 when the full range of impairments/limitations was taken into account; between 0.198 and 0.285 when only the severe impairments/limitations were taken into account); performance-WPS was less similar to performance than to capacity. Our approach enabled identifying subjects with “severe disability” and separating the effect of personal support from that of devices, policies, and service provision. PMID:22454601

Muscle Activation Differs Between Partial and Full Back Squat Exercise With External Load Equated.

PubMed

da Silva, Josinaldo J; Schoenfeld, Brad J; Marchetti, Priscyla N; Pecoraro, Silvio L; Greve, Julia M D; Marchetti, Paulo H

2017-06-01

Changes in range of motion affect the magnitude of the load during the squat exercise and, consequently, may influence muscle activation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate muscle activation between the partial and full back squat exercise with external load equated on a relative basis between conditions. Fifteen young, healthy, resistance-trained men (age: 26 ± 5 years, height: 173 ± 6 cm) performed a back squat at their 10 repetition maximum (10RM) using 2 different ranges of motion (partial and full) in a randomized, counterbalanced fashion. Surface electromyography was used to measure muscle activation of the vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, rectus femoris, biceps femoris (BF), semitendinosus, erector spinae, soleus (SL), and gluteus maximus (GM). In general, muscle activity was highest during the partial back squat for GM (p = 0.004), BF (p = 0.009), and SL (p = 0.031) when compared with full-back squat. There was no significant difference for rating of perceived exertion between partial and full back squat exercise at 10RM (8 ± 1 and 9 ± 1, respectively). In conclusion, the range of motion in the back squat alters muscle activation of the prime mover (GM) and stabilizers (SL and BF) when performed with the load equated on a relative basis. Thus, the partial back squat maximizes the level of muscle activation of the GM and associated stabilizer muscles.

Surface segregation in a binary mixture of ionic liquids: Comparison between high-resolution RBS measurements and molecular dynamics simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakajima, Kaoru; Nakanishi, Shunto; Chval, Zdeněk; Lísal, Martin; Kimura, Kenji

2016-11-01

Surface structure of equimolar mixture of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide ([C2C1Im][Tf2N]) and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([C2C1Im][BF4]) is studied using high-resolution Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy (HRBS) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Both HRBS and MD simulations show enrichment of [Tf2N] in the first molecular layer although the degree of enrichment observed by HRBS is more pronounced than that predicted by the MD simulation. In the subsurface region, MD simulation shows a small depletion of [Tf2N] while HRBS shows a small enrichment here. This discrepancy is partially attributed to the artifact of the MD simulations. Since the number of each ion is fixed in a finite-size simulation box, surface enrichment of particular ion results in its artificial depletion in the subsurface region.

77 FR 50668 - Proposed Flood Elevation Determinations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-22

... County, Texas, and Incorporated Areas. Specifically, it addresses the flooding sources: Black Fork Creek, Black Fork Creek Tributary BF-1, Black Fork Creek Tributary BF-M-1, Black Fork Creek Tributary D, Black Fork Creek Tributary D-1, Black Fork Creek Tributary D-2, Black Fork Creek Tributary D-3, Butler Creek...

Breastfeeding practice and knowledge among women attending primary health-care centers in Riyadh 2016.

PubMed

Al-Mutairi, Norah Faleh; Al-Omran, Yousef Abdullah; Parameaswari, P J

2017-01-01

Breast milk is the best natural essential nutrition to newborns and infants. However, the practice of breastfeeding (BF) has declined in Saudi Arabia. The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge and practice of BF with their determinants among mothers in Riyadh. In this cross-sectional study, 252 mothers attending the well-baby clinics in Riyadh from March 2016 to May 2017 were selected randomly with their consent and studied by a standardized questionnaire. Of the 252 women, 69.4% were 25-35 years of age and 56.7% with a bachelor degree or higher education. Nearly 75% mothers had education on BF before our study. Mixed feeding was the most preferred method (51.6%) followed by artificial milk (29.4%). The most reported reason for discontinuing BF was breast milk insufficiency (37.3%) and of breastfeed continuation was their perceived benefit (36.6%). Excellent knowledge was observed among 12.7%, good knowledge in 57.1%, and unsatisfactory level in 30.2% mothers. The regression model shows that high school education improved the knowledge by 10.9 points ( P = 0.024) and undergraduate by 18.7 points ( P value = 0.001) when compared to women who were literate. Women with parity >5 improved knowledge score by 17.3 points ( P < 0.001). We observed that majority (57.1%) of Saudi mothers had a moderate level of knowledge on BF benefits and 19% had practiced exclusive BF. There is a need for better educational programs to increase awareness on its benefits for the health situation in the country on the long term.

Topological BF field theory description of topological insulators

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

Cho, Gil Young; Moore, Joel E., E-mail: jemoore@berkeley.edu; Materials Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720

2011-06-15

Research Highlights: > We show that a BF theory is the effective theory of 2D and 3D topological insulators. > The non-gauge-invariance of the bulk theory yields surface terms for a bosonized Dirac fermion. > The 'axion' term in electromagnetism is correctly obtained from gapped surfaces. > Generalizations to possible fractional phases are discussed in closing. - Abstract: Topological phases of matter are described universally by topological field theories in the same way that symmetry-breaking phases of matter are described by Landau-Ginzburg field theories. We propose that topological insulators in two and three dimensions are described by a version ofmore » abelian BF theory. For the two-dimensional topological insulator or quantum spin Hall state, this description is essentially equivalent to a pair of Chern-Simons theories, consistent with the realization of this phase as paired integer quantum Hall effect states. The BF description can be motivated from the local excitations produced when a {pi} flux is threaded through this state. For the three-dimensional topological insulator, the BF description is less obvious but quite versatile: it contains a gapless surface Dirac fermion when time-reversal-symmetry is preserved and yields 'axion electrodynamics', i.e., an electromagnetic E . B term, when time-reversal symmetry is broken and the surfaces are gapped. Just as changing the coefficients and charges of 2D Chern-Simons theory allows one to obtain fractional quantum Hall states starting from integer states, BF theory could also describe (at a macroscopic level) fractional 3D topological insulators with fractional statistics of point-like and line-like objects.« less

Solvent controlled intramolecular electron transfer in mixtures of 1-butyl-3-methylimidizolium tetrafluoroborate and acetonitrile

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rumble, Christopher A.; Maroncelli, Mark

2018-05-01

Time-resolved emission techniques were used to study the excited-state intramolecular electron transfer of 9-(4-biphenyl)-10-methylacridinium (BPAc+) in mixtures of 1-butyl-3-methylimidizolium tetrafluoroborate ([Im41][BF4])+ acetonitrile (ACN), a mixture previously shown to be of nearly constant polarity and nearly ideal mixing behavior. Reaction times (τrxn) track solvation times (τsolv) as a function of mixture composition over a range of more than 3 orders of magnitude in τsolv. This same correlation extends to a variety of neat dipolar solvents and ionic liquids. Reaction times are ˜2-fold larger than τsolv over most of the range studied but appear to reach a limiting value of ˜3 ps in the fastest solvents.

[A Comparative Study on Two Membrane Bioreactors for the Treatment of Digested Piggery Wastewater].

PubMed

Shui, Yong; Kawagishi, Tomoki; Song, Xiao-yan; Liu, Rui; Chen, Lü-jun

2015-09-01

With high concentrations of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and ammonium while low ratio of COD to total nitrogen (TN), digested piggery wastewater is difficult to treat using conventional biological methods. In this study, a biofilm membrane bioreactor (BF-MBR) and a traditional type of membrane bioreactor (MBR) were parallel operated to treat digested piggery wastewater, and the pollutant removal performance were compared at influent COD/TN ratios of 1. 0 ± 0. 2 and 2. 3 ± 0. 4, respectively. The results showed that the effluent quality in both reactors was poor and unstable when the influent COD/TN ratio was 1. 0 ± 0. 2. The effluent quality and stability were greatly improved as the influent COD/TN ratio was increased to 2. 3 ± 0. 4. The removal rates of COD and ammonium were respectively 92. 3% ± 2. 4% and 97. 5% ± 4. 1% in BF-MBR, slightly higher than 91. 9% ± 1. 5% and 91. 2% ± 14. 0% in MBR. Benefited from the biofilm, 36. 7% ± 19. 5% of TN and 54. 0% ± 18. 9% of TP were removed by BF-MBR, significantly higher than the respective values of 19. 2% ± 12. 4% and 29. 0% ± 18. 1% by MBR. Moreover, BF-MBR consumed less than 40% of the alkaline chemicals as MBR. BF-MBR was considered more suitable for treatment of digested piggery wastewater due to its better pollutant removal performance and low consumption of alkaline.

Results of 1-year Diet and Exercise Interventions for ER+/PR±/HER2- Breast Cancer Patients Correlated with Treatment Type.

PubMed

Artene, Diana V; Bordea, Cristian I; Blidaru, Alexandru

2017-01-01

Many breast cancer patients gain weight during chemotherapy and antiestrogenic treatment increasing recurrence, oncologic specific and all-cause mortality risks. Patients and Methods: 165 ER+/PR±/HER2- breast cancer patients under antiestrogenic treatment were randomly assigned to follow an at-home diet based on food naturally high in proteins, calcium, probiotics and prebiotics (D), or this diet and 4' isometric exercises (D+Ex) for 1 year. We measured weight (W), body (BF) and visceral fat (VF) using a multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance scale on the 6th and 12th month and we correlated results with chemotherapy, surgery and antiestrogenic medication type. Results were analysed using the Friedman Test, then with Wilcoxon signed-rank tests if Friedman Test was significant. Results: Overall, the patients 1-year results show that both D+Ex and D patients obtained statistically significant weight loss and fat loss. D patients lost 3.3 kg, 3.2% BF and 1% visceral fat. D+Ex patients lost 6.5 kg, 3.3% BF and 2% visceral fat. D+Ex patients obtained statistically significance for W, BF and VF regardless of chemotherapy, surgery or antiestrogenic treatment type. D patients with mastectomy or with aromatase inhibitors lost W, BF and VF. D patients with conservatory surgery, adjuvant or both neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy and those on Tamoxifen only lost W. D patients with neoadjuvant chemotherapy also lost VF. This diet is effective for ER+/PR±/HER2- breast cancer patients on antiestrogenic medication. Adding at least a minimal exercise protocol improves patients chances of counteracting sarcopenic obesity. Celsius.

Genomic Prostate Cancer Classifier Predicts Biochemical Failure and Metastases in Patients After Postoperative Radiation Therapy

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

Den, Robert B., E-mail: Robert.Den@jeffersonhospital.org; Feng, Felix Y.; Showalter, Timothy N.

2014-08-01

Purpose: To test the hypothesis that a genomic classifier (GC) would predict biochemical failure (BF) and distant metastasis (DM) in men receiving radiation therapy (RT) after radical prostatectomy (RP). Methods and Materials: Among patients who underwent post-RP RT, 139 were identified for pT3 or positive margin, who did not receive neoadjuvant hormones and had paraffin-embedded specimens. Ribonucleic acid was extracted from the highest Gleason grade focus and applied to a high-density-oligonucleotide microarray. Receiver operating characteristic, calibration, cumulative incidence, and Cox regression analyses were performed to assess GC performance for predicting BF and DM after post-RP RT in comparison with clinical nomograms.more » Results: The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the Stephenson model was 0.70 for both BF and DM, with addition of GC significantly improving area under the receiver operating characteristic curve to 0.78 and 0.80, respectively. Stratified by GC risk groups, 8-year cumulative incidence was 21%, 48%, and 81% for BF (P<.0001) and for DM was 0, 12%, and 17% (P=.032) for low, intermediate, and high GC, respectively. In multivariable analysis, patients with high GC had a hazard ratio of 8.1 and 14.3 for BF and DM. In patients with intermediate or high GC, those irradiated with undetectable prostate-specific antigen (PSA ≤0.2 ng/mL) had median BF survival of >8 years, compared with <4 years for patients with detectable PSA (>0.2 ng/mL) before initiation of RT. At 8 years, the DM cumulative incidence for patients with high GC and RT with undetectable PSA was 3%, compared with 23% with detectable PSA (P=.03). No outcome differences were observed for low GC between the treatment groups. Conclusion: The GC predicted BF and metastasis after post-RP irradiation. Patients with lower GC risk may benefit from delayed RT, as opposed to those with higher GC; however, this needs prospective validation. Genomic-based models may be useful for improved decision-making for treatment of high-risk prostate cancer.« less

Supramolecular architectures with π-acidic 3,6-bis(2-pyridyl)-1,2,4,5-tetrazine cavities: role of anion-π interactions in the remarkable stability of Fe(II) metallacycles in solution.

PubMed

Chifotides, Helen T; Giles, Ian D; Dunbar, Kim R

2013-02-27

The comprehensive investigation reported herein provides compelling evidence that anion-π interactions are the main driving force in the formation of self-assembled Fe(II)-templated metallacycles with bptz [3,6-bis(2-pyridyl)-1,2,4,5-tetrazine] in high yields. It was demonstrated by X-ray crystallography, (1)H NMR, solution and solid-state MAS (19)F NMR spectroscopies, CV and MS studies that the anions [X](-) = [BF(4)](-), [ClO(4)](-) and the anions [Y](-) = [SbF(6)](-), [AsF(6)](-), [PF(6)](-) template molecular squares [Fe(4)(bptz)(4)(CH(3)CN)(8)][X](8) and pentagons [Fe(5)(bptz)(5)(CH(3)CN)(10)][Y](10), respectively. The X-ray structures of [{Fe(4)(bptz)(4)(CH(3)CN)(8)}⊂BF(4)][BF(4)](7) and [{Fe(5)(bptz)(5)(CH(3)CN)(10)}⊂2SbF(6)][SbF(6)](8) revealed that the [BF(4)](-) and [SbF(6)](-) anions occupy the π-acidic cavities, establishing close directional F···C(tetrazine) contacts with the tetrazine rings that are by ~0.4 Å shorter than the sum of the F···C van der Waals radii (ΣR(vdW) F···C = 3.17 Å). The number and strength of F···C(tetrazine) contacts are maximized; the F···C(tetrazine) distances and anion positioning versus the polygon opposing tetrazine rings are in agreement with DFT calculations for C(2)N(4)R(2)···[X](-)···C(2)N(4)R(2) (R = F, CN; [X](-) = [BF(4)](-), [PF(6)](-)). In unprecedented solid-state (19)F MAS NMR studies, the templating anions, engaged in anion-π interactions in the solid state, exhibit downfield chemical shifts Δδ((19)F) ≈ 3.5-4.0 ppm versus peripheral anions. NMR, CV, and MS studies also establish that the Fe(II) metallacycles remain intact in solution. Additionally, interconversion studies between the Fe(II) metallacycles in solution, monitored by (1)H NMR spectroscopy, underscore the remarkable stability of the metallapentacycles [Fe(5)(bptz)(5)(CH(3)CN)(10)][PF(6)](10) ≪ [Fe(5)(bptz)(5)(CH(3)CN)(10)][SbF(6)](10) < [Fe(5)(bptz)(5)(CH(3)CN)(10)][AsF(6)](10) versus [Fe(4)(bptz)(4)(CH(3)CN)(8)][BF(4)](8), given the inherent angle strain in five-membered rings. Finally, the low anion activation energies of encapsulation (ΔG(‡) ≈ 50 kJ/mol), determined from variable-temperature (19)F NMR studies for [Fe(5)(bptz)(5)(CH(3)CN)(10)][PF(6)](10) and [Zn(4)(bptz)(4)(CH(3)CN)(8)][BF(4)](8), confirm anion encapsulation in the π-acidic cavities by anion-π contacts (~20-70 kJ/mol).

A density functional theory study on the interactions between dibenzothiophene and tetrafluoroborate-based ionic liquids.

PubMed

Lin, Jin; Lü, Renqing; Wu, Chongchong; Xiao, Ye; Liang, Fei; Famakinwa, Temilola

2017-04-01

The interactions between dibenzothiophene (DBT) and N-butyl-N-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([BMIM][BF 4 ]), N-butyl-N-methylmorpholinium tetrafluoroborate ([Bmmorpholinium][BF 4 ]), N-butyl-N-methylpiperdinium tetrafluoroborate ([BMPiper][BF 4 ]), N-butyl-N-methylpyrrolidinium tetrafluoroborate ([BMPyrro][BF 4 ]), and N-butylpyridinium tetrafluoroborate ([BPY][BF 4 ]) were investigated using density functional theory approach. Geometric, electron, and topological properties were analyzed using natural bond orbital, atoms in molecules theory, and noncovalent interaction methods in order to understand intermolecular interactions between DBT and ionic liquids. The result shows that hydrogen bond and van der Waals interactions are widespread in all the ionic liquids-DBT systems. Ion-π interactions between DBT and cation or anion are also observed, while π + -π interactions are only found in the [BMIM][BF 4 ]-DBT and [BPY][BF 4 ]-DBT systems. The order of interaction energy is [BPY][BF4]-DBT > [BMIM][BF 4 ]-DBT > [BMPiper][BF 4 ]-DBT > [BMPyrro][BF 4 ]-DBT > [BMmorpholinum][BF 4 ]-DBT. The energies between DBT and the two ionic liquids containing aromatic cations are significantly higher.

Modification of activity-dependent increases in cerebellar blood flow by extracellular potassium in anaesthetized rats

PubMed Central

Caesar, Kirsten; Akgören, Nuran; Mathiesen, Claus; Lauritzen, Martin

1999-01-01

The hypothesis that potassium ions mediate activity-dependent increases of cerebral blood flow was examined in rat cerebellar cortex using ion-selective microelectrodes and laser-Doppler flowmetry. Increases of cerebellar blood flow (CeBF) and extracellular potassium concentration ([K+]o) were evoked by stimulation of parallel fibres and climbing fibres, and by microinjection of KCl into the cortex. For parallel fibre stimulation, there was a maximal increase in [K+]o to 6.3 ± 0.5 mm and in CeBF of 122 ± 11%. Climbing fibre stimulation gave a maximal increase in [K+]o to 4.4 ± 0.2 mm and in CeBF of 157 ± 20%. This indicates different maxima for [K+]o and CeBF, dependent on the afferent system activated. [K+]o and CeBF responses evoked by parallel or climbing fibre stimulation increased rapidly at the onset of stimulation, but exhibited different time courses during the remainder of the stimulation period and during return to baseline. Microinjections of KCl into the cortex increased [K+]o to levels comparable to those evoked by parallel fibre stimulation. The corresponding CeBF increases were the same as, or smaller than, for parallel fibre stimulation, and much smaller than for climbing fibre stimulation. This suggests that mediators other than [K+]o are important for activity-dependent cerebral blood flow increases. The present study showed that increased [K+]o is involved in CeBF regulation in the parallel fibre system, but is of limited importance for CeBF regulation in the climbing fibre system. The hypothesis that K+ is a major mediator of activity-dependent blood flow increases is probably not generally applicable to all brain regions and all types of neuronal stimulation. PMID:10517819

Decreased Retinal-Choroidal Blood Flow in Retinitis Pigmentosa as measured by MRI

PubMed Central

Zhang, Yi; Harrison, Joseph M; Nateras, Oscar San Emeterio; Chalfin, Steven; Duong, Timothy Q

2013-01-01

Purpose To evaluate retinal and choroidal blood flow (BF) using high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as well as visual function measured by the electroretinogram (ERG) in patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Methods MRI studies were performed in 6 RP patients (29-67 years) and 5 healthy volunteers (29-64 years) on a 3-Tesla scanner with a custom-made surface coil. Quantitative BF was measured using the pseudo-continuous arterial-spin-labeling technique at 0.5x0.8x6.0mm. Full-field ERGs of all patients were recorded. Amplitudes and implicit times of standard ERGs were analyzed. Results Basal BF in the posterior retinal-choroid was 142±16 ml/100ml/min (or 1.14±0.13 μl/mm2/min) in the control group and was 70±19 ml/100ml/min (or 0.56±0.15 μl/mm2/min) in the RP group. Retinal-choroidal BF was significantly reduced by 52±8% in RP patients compared to controls (P<0.05). ERG a- and b-wave amplitudes of RP patients were reduced and b-wave implicit times were delayed. There were statistically significant correlations between a-wave amplitude and BF value (r=0.9, P<0.05) but not between b-wave amplitude and BF value (r =0.7, P=0.2). Conclusions This study demonstrates a novel non-invasive MRI approach to measure quantitative retinal and choroidal BF in RP patients. We found that retinal-choroidal BF was markedly reduced and significantly correlated with reduced amplitudes of the a-wave of the standard combined ERG. PMID:23408312

Trends in lumber processing in the western United States. Part I: board foot Scribner volume per cubic foot of timber

Treesearch

Charles E. Keegan; Todd A. Morgan; Keith A. Blatner; Jean M. Daniels

2010-01-01

This article describes trends in board foot Scribner volume per cubic foot of timber for logs processed by sawmills in the western United States. Board foot to cubic foot (BF/CF) ratios for the period from 2000 through 2006 ranged from 3.70 in Montana to 5.71 in the Four Corners Region (Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah). Sawmills in the Four Corners Region,...

Breast-feeding and postpartum weight retention: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

He, Xiujie; Zhu, Meng; Hu, Chuanlai; Tao, Xingyong; Li, Yingchun; Wang, Qiuwei; Liu, Yue

2015-12-01

Weight gained during pregnancy and postpartum weight retention might contribute to obesity in women of childbearing age. Whether breast-feeding (BF) may decrease postpartum weight retention (PPWR) is still controversial. The purpose of our systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the relationship between BF and PPWR. Three databases were systematically reviewed and the reference lists of relevant articles were checked. Meta-analysis was performed to quantify the pooled standardized mean differences (SMD) of BF on PPWR by using a random-effect model. Heterogeneity was tested using the χ 2 test and I 2 statistics. Publication bias was estimated from Egger's test (linear regression method) or Begg's test (rank correlation method). Among 349 search hits, eleven studies met the inclusion criteria for the meta-analysis. Seven studies were conducted in the USA, one in Brazil, one in France, one in Georgia and one in Croatia. Compared with formula-feeding, BF for 3 to ≤6 months seemed to have a negative influence on PPWR and if BF continued for >6 months had little or no influence on PPWR. In a subgroup meta-analysis, the results did not change substantially after the analysis had been classified by available confounding factors. There was no indication of a publication bias from the result of either Egger's test or Begg's test. Although the available evidence held belief that BF decreases PPWR, more robust studies are needed to reliably assess the impact of patterns and duration of BF on PPWR.

Forearm Skin Blood Flow After Kinesiology Taping in Healthy Soccer Players: An Exploratory Investigation

PubMed Central

Woodward, Kirsty A.; Unnithan, Vish; Hopkins, Nicola D.

2015-01-01

Context Kinesiology tape (KT) has become popular among athletes for both injury prevention and rehabilitation due to its reported therapeutic effects, including facilitation of lymphatic flow and enhanced peripheral blood flow. However, evidence to support such claims is insufficient. Objective To determine whether KT improves skin blood flow (SkBF) responses in young, elite soccer players. Design Randomized crossover study. Setting Research laboratory. Patients or Other Participants Thirteen healthy, elite, adolescent male soccer players (age = 14.7 ± 0.6 years). Intervention(s) Participants completed 2 experimental trials; during trial 1, the volar aspect of the dominant forearm was taped. Forearm SkBF was measured within the taped area and 3 cm lateral to the taped area. During trial 2, no tape was applied to either site. Both trials were performed within 7 days. Main Outcome Measure(s) Baseline and maximal thermally (42°C) stimulated SkBF responses were assessed using laser Doppler flowmetry. Continuously measured SkBF and derived mean arterial pressure obtained at 5-minute intervals were used to calculate cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC), the primary outcome measure. Results No differences were observed for baseline SkBF or CVC between trials or measurement sites. After local heating, no differences were evident for SkBF or CVC between trials or measurement sites. Conclusions Our findings suggest that, in healthy, trained adolescent males, KT was not associated with increased forearm SkBF. PMID:26445024

Bioaccumulation and enantioselectivity of type I and type II pyrethroid pesticides in earthworm.

PubMed

Chang, Jing; Wang, Yinghuan; Wang, Huili; Li, Jianzhong; Xu, Peng

2016-02-01

In this study, the bioavailability and enantioselectivity differences between bifenthrin (BF, typeⅠpyrethroid) and lambad-cyhalothrin (LCT, type Ⅱ pyrethroid) in earthworm (Eisenia fetida) were investigated. The bio-soil accumulation factors (BSAFs) of BF was about 4 times greater than that of LCT. LCT was degraded faster than BF in soil while eliminated lower in earthworm samples. Compound sorption plays an important role on bioavailability in earthworm, and the soil-adsorption coefficient (K(oc)) of BF and LCT were 22 442 and 42 578, respectively. Metabolic capacity of earthworm to LCT was further studied as no significant difference in the accumulation of LCT between the high and low dose experiment was found. 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (PBCOOH), a metabolite of LCT produced by earthworm was detected in soil. The concentration of PBCOOH at high dose exposure was about 4.7 times greater than that of in low dose level at the fifth day. The bioaccumulation of BF and LCT were both enantioselective in earthworm. The enantiomer factors of BF and LCT in earthworm were approximately 0.12 and 0.65, respectively. The more toxic enantiomers ((+)-BF and (-)-LCT) had a preferential degradation in earthworm and leaded to less toxicity on earthworm for racemate exposure. In combination with other studies, a liner relationship between Log BSAF(S) and Log K(ow) was observed, and the Log BSAF(S) decreased with the increase of Log K(ow). Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Synthesis, selected coordination chemistry and extraction behavior of a (phosphinoylmethyl)pyridyl N-oxide-functionalized ligand based upon a 1,4-diazepane platform

DOE PAGES

Ouizem, Sabrina; Rosario Amorin, Daniel; Dickie, Diane A.; ...

2015-05-09

For syntheses of new multidentate chelating ligands ((6,6'4(1,4-diazepane-1,4-diyl)bis(methylene))bis(pyridine-6,2-diyl))bis(methylene))bis(diphenylphosphine oxide) (2) and 6,6'-((1,4-diazepane1,4-diyl)bis(methylene))bis(2-((diphenylphosphoryl)methyl)pyridine 1-oxide) (3), based upon a 1,4-diazepane platform functionalized with 2-(diphenylphosphinoylmethyl)pyridine P-oxide and 2-(diphenylphosphinoylmethyl)pyridine NP-dioxide fragments, respectively, the results are reported. Our results from studies of the coordination chemistry of the ligands with selected lanthanide nitrates and Cu(BF 4)(2) are outlined, and crystal structures for two complexes, [Cu(2)](BF 4) 2 and [Cu(3)](BF 4) 2, are described along with survey Eu(III) and Am(III) solvent extraction analysis, for 3.

Relationship of body mass index to percent body fat and waist circumference among schoolchildren in Japan--the influence of gender and obesity: a population-based cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Ochiai, Hirotaka; Shirasawa, Takako; Nishimura, Rimei; Morimoto, Aya; Shimada, Naoki; Ohtsu, Tadahiro; Kujirai, Emiko; Hoshino, Hiromi; Tajima, Naoko; Kokaze, Akatsuki

2010-08-18

Although the correlation coefficient between body mass index (BMI) and percent body fat (%BF) or waist circumference (WC) has been reported, studies conducted among population-based schoolchildren to date have been limited in Japan, where %BF and WC are not usually measured in annual health examinations at elementary schools or junior high schools. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship of BMI to %BF and WC and to examine the influence of gender and obesity on these relationships among Japanese schoolchildren. Subjects included 3,750 schoolchildren from the fourth and seventh grade in Ina-town, Saitama Prefecture, Japan between 2004 and 2008. Information about subject's age, sex, height, weight, %BF, and WC was collected from annual physical examinations. %BF was measured with a bipedal biometrical impedance analysis device. Obesity was defined by the following two criteria: the obese definition of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the definition of obesity for Japanese children. Pearson's correlation coefficients between BMI and %BF or WC were calculated separately for sex. Among fourth graders, the correlation coefficients between BMI and %BF were 0.74 for boys and 0.97 for girls, whereas those between BMI and WC were 0.94 for boys and 0.90 for girls. Similar results were observed in the analysis of seventh graders. The correlation coefficient between BMI and %BF varied by physique (obese or non-obese), with weaker correlations among the obese regardless of the definition of obesity; most correlation coefficients among obese boys were less than 0.5, whereas most correlations among obese girls were more than 0.7. On the other hand, the correlation coefficients between BMI and WC were more than 0.8 among boys and almost all coefficients were more than 0.7 among girls, regardless of physique. BMI was positively correlated with %BF and WC among Japanese schoolchildren. The correlations could be influenced by obesity as well as by gender. Accordingly, it is essential to consider gender and obesity when using BMI as a surrogate for %BF and WC for epidemiological use.

Is the Lamb shift chemically significant?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dyall, Kenneth G.; Bauschlicher, Charles W., Jr.; Schwenke, David W.; Pyykko, Pekka; Arnold, James (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

The contribution of the Lamb shift to the atomization energies of some prototype molecules, BF3, AlF3, and GaF3, is estimated by a perturbation procedure. It is found to be in the range of 3-5% of the one-electron scalar relativistic contribution to the atomization energy. The maximum absolute value is 0.2 kcal/mol for GaF3. These sample calculations indicate that the Lamb shift is probably small enough to be neglected for energetics of molecules containing light atoms if the target accuracy is 1 kcal/mol, but for higher accuracy calculations and for molecules containing heavy elements it must be considered.

The Moon in the Russian scientific-educational project: Kazan-GeoNa-2010

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gusev, A.; Kitiashvili, I.; Petrova, N.

Historically thousand-year Kazan city and the two-hundred-year Kazan university Russia carry out a role of the scientific-organizational and cultural-educational center of Volga region For the further successful development of educational and scientific-educational activity of the Russian Federation the Republic Tatarstan Kazan is offered the national project - the International Center of the Science and the Internet of Technologies bf GeoNa bf Geo metry of bf Na ture - bf GeoNa is developed - wisdom enthusiasm pride grandeur which includes a modern complex of conference halls up to 4 thousand places the Center the Internet of Technologies 3D Planetarium - development of the Moon PhysicsLand an active museum of natural sciences an oceanarium training a complex Spheres of Knowledge botanical and landscape oases In center bf GeoNa will be hosted conferences congresses fundamental scientific researches of the Moon scientific-educational actions presentation of the international scientific programs on lunar research modern lunar databases exhibition Hi-tech of the equipment the extensive cultural-educational tourist and cognitive programs Center bf GeoNa will enable scientists and teachers of the Russian universities to join to advanced achievements of a science information technologies to establish scientific communications with foreign colleagues in sphere of the high technology and educational projects with world space centers

Body fat in children and adolescents participating in organized sports: Descriptive epidemiological study of 6048 Latvian athletes.

PubMed

Kalnina, Liga; Sauka, Melita; Timpka, Toomas; Dahlström, Örjan; Nylander, Eva; Selga, Guntars; Ligere, Renate; Karklina, Helena; Priedite, Ilga S; Larins, Viesturs

2015-08-01

Pressure among young athletes to meet body composition goals may lead to poor nutrition and affect growth. To examine the proportion of body fat (%BF), measured by bioimpedance analysis, among Latvian children and adolescents participating in organized sports. Our study had a nationally representative sample of 6048 young athletes, aged 10-17 years. Their %BF was measured using a multifrequency, 8-pole, bioelectrical impedance leg-to-hand analyzer. About 19.2% (CI 14.4-20.0) of boys and 15.1% (CI 14.0-16.3) of girls had a %BF value below the recommended levels. The %BF in young female athletes participating in aesthetic sports was lower than among their peers participating in other sports. Young male athletes participating in aesthetic sports had lower %BF levels at 10 and 12 years of age, compared with participants in weight-class sports; and lower levels of %BF from age 10-14 years, compared with participants in non-weight-sensitive sports. Almost every fifth child and adolescent participating in organized sports displayed critically low body fat levels. Body fat needs to be assessed regularly in young athletes, to prevent negative consequences on health. © 2015 the Nordic Societies of Public Health.

Effects of Bauhinia forficata Tea on Oxidative Stress and Liver Damage in Diabetic Mice

PubMed Central

Salgueiro, Andréia Caroline Fernandes; da Silva, Marianne Pires; Mendez, Andreas Sebastian Loureiro; Zemolin, Ana Paula Pegoraro; Posser, Thaís; Puntel, Robson Luiz; Puntel, Gustavo Orione

2016-01-01

This study was designed to evaluate the effects of Bauhinia forficata Link subsp. pruinosa (BF) tea on oxidative stress and liver damage in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice. Diabetic male mice have remained 30 days without any treatment. BF treatment started on day 31 and continued for 21 days as a drinking-water substitute. We evaluated (1) BF chemical composition; (2) glucose levels; (3) liver/body weight ratio and liver transaminases; (4) reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation, and protein carbonylation in liver; (5) superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities in liver; (6) δ-aminolevulinate dehydratase (δ-ALA-D) and nonprotein thiols (NPSH) in liver; (7) Nrf2, NQO-1, and HSP70 levels in liver and pancreas. Phytochemical analyses identified four phenols compounds. Diabetic mice present high levels of NQO-1 in pancreas, increased levels of ROS and lipid peroxidation in liver, and decrease in CAT activity. BF treatment normalized all these parameters. BF did not normalize hyperglycemia, liver/body weight ratio, aspartate aminotransferase, protein carbonyl, NPSH levels, and δ-ALA-D activity. The raised oxidative stress seems to be a potential mechanism involved in liver damage in hyperglycemic conditions. Our results indicated that BF protective effect could be attributed to its antioxidant capacity, more than a hypoglycemic potential. PMID:26839634

Effects of Bauhinia forficata Tea on Oxidative Stress and Liver Damage in Diabetic Mice.

PubMed

Salgueiro, Andréia Caroline Fernandes; Folmer, Vanderlei; da Silva, Marianne Pires; Mendez, Andreas Sebastian Loureiro; Zemolin, Ana Paula Pegoraro; Posser, Thaís; Franco, Jeferson Luis; Puntel, Robson Luiz; Puntel, Gustavo Orione

2016-01-01

This study was designed to evaluate the effects of Bauhinia forficata Link subsp. pruinosa (BF) tea on oxidative stress and liver damage in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice. Diabetic male mice have remained 30 days without any treatment. BF treatment started on day 31 and continued for 21 days as a drinking-water substitute. We evaluated (1) BF chemical composition; (2) glucose levels; (3) liver/body weight ratio and liver transaminases; (4) reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation, and protein carbonylation in liver; (5) superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities in liver; (6) δ-aminolevulinate dehydratase (δ-ALA-D) and nonprotein thiols (NPSH) in liver; (7) Nrf2, NQO-1, and HSP70 levels in liver and pancreas. Phytochemical analyses identified four phenols compounds. Diabetic mice present high levels of NQO-1 in pancreas, increased levels of ROS and lipid peroxidation in liver, and decrease in CAT activity. BF treatment normalized all these parameters. BF did not normalize hyperglycemia, liver/body weight ratio, aspartate aminotransferase, protein carbonyl, NPSH levels, and δ-ALA-D activity. The raised oxidative stress seems to be a potential mechanism involved in liver damage in hyperglycemic conditions. Our results indicated that BF protective effect could be attributed to its antioxidant capacity, more than a hypoglycemic potential.

Non-Leaching, Benign Antifouling Multilayer Polymer Coatings for Marine Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-03-01

polymerization b block BF3•Et2O boron trifluoride diethyl etherate BNL Brookhaven National Labs BF3•Et2O boron trifluoride diethyl etherate BSA...surface characterization of the polymers. We also acknowledge Brookhaven National Laboratory ( BNL ) where the NEXAFS surface characterization was...National Synchrotron Light Source at Brookhaven National Laboratory ( BNL ). The X-ray beam was elliptically polarized (polarization factor = 0.85

Synthesis of Pyridine– and Pyrazine–BF 3 Complexes and Their Characterization in Solution and Solid State

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

Chénard, Etienne; Sutrisno, Andre; Zhu, Lingyang

2016-03-31

Following the discovery of the redox-active 1,4- bis-BF 3-quinoxaline complex, we undertook a structure- activity study with the objective to understand the active nature of the quinoxaline complex. Through systematic synthesis and characterization, we have compared complexes prepared from pyridine and pyrazine derivatives, as heterocyclic core analogues. This paper reports the structural requirements that give rise to the electrochemical features of the 1,4-bis-BF 3-quinoxaline adduct. Using solution and solidstate NMR spectroscopy, the role of aromatic ring fusion and nitrogen incorporation in bonding and electronics was elucidated. We establish the boron atom location and its interaction with its environment from 1Dmore » and 2D solution NMR, X-ray diffraction analysis, and 11B solid-state NMR experiments. Crystallographic analysis of single crystals helped to correlate the boron geometry with 11B quadrupolar coupling constant (CQ) and asymmetry parameter (ηQ), extracted from 11B solid-state NMR spectra. Additionally, computations based on density functional theory were performed to predict electrochemical behavior of the BF 3-heteroaromatic complexes. We then experimentally measured electrochemical potential using cyclic voltammetry and found that the redox potentials and CQ values are similarly affected by electronic changes in the complexes.« less

RNA turnover and protein synthesis in fish cells.

PubMed

Smith, R W; Palmer, R M; Houlihan, D F

2000-03-01

Protein synthesis in fish has been previously correlated with RNA content. The present study investigates whether protein and RNA synthesis rates are similarly related. Protein and RNA synthesis rates were determined from 3H-phenylalanine and 3H-uridine incorporation, respectively, and expressed as % x day(-1) and half-lives, respectively. Three fibroblast cell lines were used: BF-2, RTP, CHSE 214, which are derived from the bluegill, rainbow trout and Chinook salmon, respectively. These cells contained similar RNA concentrations (approximately 175 microg RNA x mg(-1) cell protein). Therefore differences in protein synthesis rates, BF-2 (31.3 +/- 1.8)>RTP (25.1 +/- 1.7)>CHSE 214 (17.6 +/-1.1), were attributable to RNA translational efficiency. The most translationally efficient RNA (BF-2 cells), 1.8 mg protein synthesised x microg(-1) RNA x day(-1), corresponded to the lowest RNA half-life, 75.4 +/- 6.4 h. Translationally efficient RNA was also energetically efficient with BF-2 cells exploiting the least costly route of nucleotide supply (i.e. exogenous salvage) 3.5-6.0 times more than the least translationally efficient RNA (CHSE 214 cells). These data suggest that differential nucleotide supply, between intracellular synthesis and exogenous salvage, constitutes the area of pre-translational flexibility exploited to maintain RNA synthesis as a fixed energetic cost component of protein synthesis.

Crossed-beam experiment for the scattering of low- and intermediate-energy electrons from BF{sub 3}: A comparative study with XF{sub 3} (X = C, N, and CH) molecules

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

Hoshino, M., E-mail: masami-h@sophia.ac.jp; Suga, A.; Kato, H.

2015-07-14

Absolute differential cross sections (DCSs) for electron interaction with BF{sub 3} molecules have been measured in the impact energy range of 1.5–200 eV and recorded over a scattering angle range of 15°–150°. These angular distributions have been normalized by reference to the elastic DCSs of the He atom and integrated by employing a modified phase shift analysis procedure to generate integral cross sections (ICSs) and momentum transfer cross sections (MTCSs). The calculations of DCSs and ICSs have been carried out using an independent atom model under the screening corrected additivity rule (IAM-SCAR). The present elastic DCSs have been found tomore » agree well with the results of IAM-SCAR calculation above 20 eV, and also with a recent Schwinger multichannel calculation below 30 eV. Furthermore, in the comparison with the XF{sub 3} (X = B, C, N, and CH) molecules, the elastic DCSs reveal a similar angular distribution which are approximately equal in magnitude from 30 to 200 eV. This feature suggests that the elastic scattering is dominated virtually by the 3-outer fluorine atoms surrounding the XF{sub 3} molecules. The vibrational DCSs have also been obtained in the energy range of 1.5–15 eV and vibrational analysis based on the angular correlation theory has been carried out to explain the nature of the shape resonances. Limited experiments on vibrational inelastic scattering confirmed the existence of a shape resonance with a peak at 3.8 eV, which is also observed in the vibrational ICS. Finally, the estimated elastic ICSs, MTCSs, as well as total cross sections are compared with the previous cross section data available.« less

Body composition and body fat distribution are related to cardiac autonomic control in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients.

PubMed

Pimenta, N M; Santa-Clara, H; Cortez-Pinto, H; Silva-Nunes, J; da Lapa Rosado, M; Sousa, P J; Calé, R; Melo, X; Sardinha, L B; Fernhall, B

2014-02-01

Heart rate recovery (HRR), a cardiac autonomic control marker, was shown to be related to body composition (BC), yet this was not tested in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients. The aim of this study was to determine if, and to what extent, markers of BC and body fat (BF) distribution are related to cardiac autonomic control in NAFLD patients. BC was assessed with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in 28 NAFLD patients (19 men, 51±13 years, and 9 women, 47±13 years). BF depots ratios were calculated to assess BF distribution. Subjects' HRR was recorded 1 (HRR1) and 2 min (HRR2) immediately after a maximum graded exercise test. BC and BF distribution were related to HRR; particularly weight, trunk BF and trunk BF-to-appendicular BF ratio showed a negative relation with HRR1 (r=-0.613, r=-0.597 and r=-0.547, respectively, P<0.01) and HRR2 (r=-0.484, r=-0.446, P<0.05, and r=-0.590, P<0.01, respectively). Age seems to be related to both HRR1 and HRR2 except when controlled for BF distribution. The preferred model in multiple regression should include trunk BF-to-appendicular BF ratio and BF to predict HRR1 (r2=0.549; P<0.05), and trunk BF-to-appendicular BF ratio alone to predict HRR2 (r2=0.430; P<0.001). BC and BF distribution were related to HRR in NAFLD patients. Trunk BF-to-appendicular BF ratio was the best independent predictor of HRR and therefore may be best related to cardiovascular increased risk, and possibly act as a mediator in age-related cardiac autonomic control variation.

Evaluation of Columbia, USMARC Composite, Suffolk, and Texel rams as terminal sires in an extensive rangeland production system: VII. Accuracy of ultrasound predictors and their association with carcass weight, yield, and value.

PubMed

Notter, D R; Mousel, M R; Leeds, T D; Zerby, H N; Moeller, S J; Lewis, G S; Taylor, J B

2014-06-01

Use of lamb BW or chilled carcass weights (CCW), live-animal ultrasound or direct carcass measurements of backfat thickness (BF; mm) and LM area (LMA; cm(2)), and carcass body wall thickness (BWall; mm) to predict carcass yield and value was evaluated using 512 crossbred lambs produced over 3 yr by mating Columbia, U.S. Meat Animal Research Center Composite, Suffolk, and Texel rams to adult Rambouillet ewes. Lambs were harvested at 3 BW endpoints within each year. The predictive value of 3 to 5 additional linear measurements of live-animal or carcass size and shape was also evaluated. Residual correlations (adjusted for effects of year, breed, and harvest group) between ultrasound and direct measurements were 0.69 for BF and 0.65 for LMA. Increasing ultrasound or carcass LMA had positive effects (P < 0.001) on yield of chilled carcass (i.e., on dressing percentage) and, at comparable CCW, on weight of high-value cuts (rack, loin, leg, and sirloin) before trimming (HVW), weight of trimmed high-value cuts (trimmed rack and loin and trimmed boneless leg and sirloin; TrHVW), and carcass value before (CVal) and after (TrCVal) trimming of high-value cuts. By contrast, ultrasound and direct measures of BF had positive effects on yields of CCW and on HVW and CVal but large negative effects on TrHVW and TrCVal. After adjusting for BW at scanning, increases of 1 mm in ultrasound BF or 1 cm(2) in ultrasound LMA were associated with changes of US$-0.32 (P < 0.10) and $1.62 (P < 0.001), respectively, in TrCVal. Carcass BWall was generally superior to carcass BF as a predictor of TrHVW and TrCVal. Carcass LMA was superior to ultrasound LMA but carcass BF was inferior to ultrasound BF for prediction of carcass yield and value. Increasing LMA thus would be expected to improve carcass yield and value. Addition of linear measurements of live-animal or carcass size and shape to the prediction model reduced residual SD (RSD) for TrHVW and TrCVal by 0.4 to 2.2%, but subsequent removal of ultrasound or direct measures of BF and LMA from the prediction model increased RSD by 7.4 to 12.2%. Measurements of CCW, LMA, BF, and BWall would thus be appropriate to support programs for value-based marketing of lamb carcasses and are superior to systems based only on measurements of size and shape in unribbed carcasses.

Antenatal breastfeeding education for increasing breastfeeding duration

PubMed Central

Lumbiganon, Pisake; Martis, Ruth; Laopaiboon, Malinee; Festin, Mario R; Ho, Jacqueline J; Hakimi, Mohammad

2014-01-01

Background Breastfeeding (BF) is well recognised as the best food for infants. The impact of antenatal BF education on the duration of BF has not been evaluated. Objectives To evaluate the effectiveness of antenatal BF education for increasing BF initiation and duration. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group’s Trials Register (21 April 2010), CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library 2010, Issue 2), MEDLINE (1966 to April 2010) and SCOPUS (January 1985 to April 2010). We contacted experts and searched reference lists of retrieved articles. We updated the search of the Pregnancy and Childbirth Group’s Trials Register on 28 September 2011 and added the results to the awaiting classification section of the review. Selection criteria All identified published, unpublished and ongoing randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effect of formal antenatal BF education or comparing two different methods of formal antenatal BF education, on duration of BF. We excluded RCTs that also included intrapartum or postpartum BF education. Data collection and analysis We assessed all potential studies identified as a result of the search strategy. Two review authors extracted data from each included study using the agreed form and assessed risk of bias. We resolved discrepancies through discussion. Main results We included 17 studies with 7131 women in the review and 14 studies involving 6932 women contributed data to the analyses. We did not do any meta-analysis because there was only one study for each comparison. Five studies compared a single method of BF education with routine care. Peer counselling significantly increased BF initiation. Three studies compared one form of BF education versus another. No intervention was significantly more effective than another intervention in increasing initiation or duration of BF. Seven studies compared multiple methods versus a single method of BF education. Combined BF educational interventions were not significantly better than a single intervention in initiating or increasing BF duration. However, in one trial a combined BF education significantly reduced nipple pain and trauma. One study compared different combinations of interventions. There was a marginally significant increase in exclusive BF at six months in women receiving a booklet plus video plus lactation consultation (LC) compared with the booklet plus video only. Two studies compared multiple methods of BF education versus routine care. The combination of BF booklet plus video plus LC was significantly better than routine care for exclusive BF at three months. Authors’ conclusions Because there were significant methodological limitations and the observed effect sizes were small, it is not appropriate to recommend any antenatal BF education. There is an urgent need to conduct RCTs study with adequate power to evaluate the effectiveness of antenatal BF education. PMID:22071830

Body composition is normal in term infants born to mothers with well-controlled gestational diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Au, Cheryl P; Raynes-Greenow, Camille H; Turner, Robin M; Carberry, Angela E; Jeffery, Heather E

2013-03-01

This study aims to describe body composition in term infants of mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) compared with infants of mothers with normal glucose tolerance (NGT). This cross-sectional study included 599 term babies born at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia. Neonatal body fat percentage (BF%) was measured within 48 h of birth using air-displacement plethysmography. Glycemic control data were based on third-trimester HbA(1c) levels and self-monitoring blood glucose levels. Associations between GDM status and BF% were investigated using linear regression adjusted for relevant maternal and neonatal variables. Of 599 babies, 67 (11%) were born to mothers with GDM. Mean ± SD neonatal BF% was 7.9 ± 4.5% in infants with GDM and 9.3 ± 4.3% in infants with NGT, and this difference was not statistically significant after adjustment. Good glycemic control was achieved in 90% of mothers with GDM. In this study, neonatal BF% did not differ by maternal GDM status, and this may be attributed to good maternal glycemic control.

Electrochemical performance of microporous and mesoporous activated carbons in neat and diluted 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumagai, Seiji; Hatomi, Masaki; Tashima, Daisuke

2017-03-01

1-Ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (EMIm·BF4), neat and diluted with propylene carbonate to 1 mol L-1, have been employed as electrolytes of electrical double-layer capacitors (EDLCs). The effects of microporosity and mesoporosity in activated carbon (AC) electrodes on the capacitive and resistive performances upon the use of neat and diluted EMIm·BF4 have been explored. In addition to cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge-discharge tests, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy has been performed employing Kang's equivalent circuit model consisting of three resistances, three constant phase elements, and one bounded Warburg impedance. The overall impedance of the EDLC cell was separated into components of intrinsic resistance, bulk electrolyte, diffusion layer, and Helmholtz layer. The specific capacitance and the equivalent series resistance (ESR) of mesoporous AC were found to be highly dependent on the rate of ionic transfer. Lower cell voltage was identified as being responsible for lower specific capacitance and larger ESR of mesoporous AC, which was similarly seen in the neat and diluted EMIm·BF4, and could be alleviated by increasing the cell voltage. The inferior rate performance and the cell-voltage-dependent performance of mesoporous AC, which were more distinctly observed in the neat EMIm·BF4, could be attributed to the lower mobility of EMIm+ and BF4- in mesopores.

Investigating the response of Micromegas detector to low-energy neutrons using Monte Carlo simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khezripour, S.; Negarestani, A.; Rezaie, M. R.

2017-08-01

Micromegas detector has recently been used for high-energy neutron (HEN) detection, but the aim of this research is to investigate the response of the Micromegas detector to low-energy neutron (LEN). For this purpose, a Micromegas detector (with air, P10, BF3, 3He and Ar/BF3 mixture) was optimized for the detection of 60 keV neutrons using the MCNP (Monte Carlo N Particle) code. The simulation results show that the optimum thickness of the cathode is 1 mm and the optimum of microgrid location is 100 μm above the anode. The output current of this detector for Ar (3%) + BF3 (97%) mixture is greater than the other ones. This mixture is considered as the appropriate gas for the Micromegas neutron detector providing the output current for 60 keV neutrons at the level of 97.8 nA per neutron. Consecuently, this detector can be introduced as LEN detector.

Waist-to-height ratio, waist circumference and BMI as indicators of percentage fat mass and cardiometabolic risk factors in children aged 3-7 years.

PubMed

Sijtsma, Anna; Bocca, Gianni; L'abée, Carianne; Liem, Eryn T; Sauer, Pieter J J; Corpeleijn, Eva

2014-04-01

To assess whether waist-to-height-ratio (WHtR) is a better estimate of body fat percentage (BF%) and a better indicator of cardiometabolic risk factors than BMI or waist circumference (WC) in young children. WHtR, WC and BMI were measured by trained staff according to standardized procedures. (2)H2O and (2)H2(18)O isotope dilution were used to assess BF% in 61 children (3-7 years) from the general population, and bioelectrical impedance (Horlick equation) was used to assess BF% in 75 overweight/obese children (3-5 years). Cardiometabolic risk factors, including diastolic and systolic blood pressure, HOMA2-IR, leptin, adiponectin, triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL- and LDL-cholesterol, TNFα and IL-6 were determined in the overweight/obese children. In the children from the general population, after adjustments for age and gender, BMI had the highest explained variance for BF% compared to WC and WHtR (R(2) = 0.32, 0.31 and 0.23, respectively). In the overweight/obese children, BMI and WC had a higher explained variance for BF% compared to WHtR (R(2) = 0.68, 0.70 and 0.50, respectively). In the overweight/obese children, WHtR, WC and BMI were all significantly positively correlated with systolic blood pressure (r = 0.23, 0.30, 0.36, respectively), HOMA2-IR (r = 0.53, 0.62, 0.63, respectively), leptin (r = 0.70, 0.77, 0.78, respectively) and triglycerides (r = 0.33, 0.36, 0.24, respectively), but not consistently with other parameters. In young children, WHtR is not superior to WC or BMI in estimating BF%, nor is WHtR better correlated with cardiometabolic risk factors than WC or BMI in overweight/obese children. These data do not support the use of WHtR in young children. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. All rights reserved.

Balanced Fluid Versus Saline-Based Fluid in Post-operative Severe Traumatic Brain Injury Patients: Acid-Base and Electrolytes Assessment

PubMed Central

Hassan, Mohamad Hasyizan; Hassan, Wan Mohd Nazaruddin Wan; Zaini, Rhendra Hardy Mohd; Shukeri, Wan Fadzlina Wan Muhd; Abidin, Huda Zainal; Eu, Chong Soon

2017-01-01

Background Normal saline (NS) is a common fluid of choice in neurosurgery and neuro-intensive care unit (ICU), but it does not contain other electrolytes and has the potential to cause hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis with prolonged infusion. These problems may be reduced with the availability of balanced fluid (BF), which becomes a more physiological isotonic solution with the presence of complete electrolyte content. This study aimed to compare the changes in electrolytes and acid–base between NS and BF (Sterofundin® ISO) therapy for post-operative severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients in neuro-ICU. Methods Sixty-six severe TBI patients who required emergency craniotomy or craniectomy and were planned for post-operative ventilation were randomised into NS (n = 33) and BF therapy groups (n = 33). The calculation of maintenance fluid given was based on the Holliday-Segar method. The electrolytes and acid–base parameters were assessed at an 8 h interval for 24 h. The data were analysed using repeated measures ANOVA. Results The NS group showed a significant lower base excess (−3.20 versus −1.35, P = 0.049), lower bicarbonate level (22.03 versus 23.48 mmol/L, P = 0.031), and more hyperchloremia (115.12 versus 111.74 mmol/L, P < 0.001) and hypokalemia (3.36 versus 3.70 mmol/L, P < 0.001) than the BF group at 24 h of therapy. The BF group showed a significantly higher level of calcium (1.97 versus 1.79 mmol/L, P = 0.003) and magnesium (0.94 versus 0.80 mmol/L, P < 0.001) than the NS group at 24 h of fluid therapy. No significant differences were found in pH, pCO2, lactate, and sodium level. Conclusion BF therapy showed better effects in maintaining higher electrolyte parameters and reducing the trend toward hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis than the NS therapy during prolonged fluid therapy for postoperative TBI patients. PMID:29386975

Balanced Fluid Versus Saline-Based Fluid in Post-operative Severe Traumatic Brain Injury Patients: Acid-Base and Electrolytes Assessment.

PubMed

Hassan, Mohamad Hasyizan; Hassan, Wan Mohd Nazaruddin Wan; Zaini, Rhendra Hardy Mohd; Shukeri, Wan Fadzlina Wan Muhd; Abidin, Huda Zainal; Eu, Chong Soon

2017-10-01

Normal saline (NS) is a common fluid of choice in neurosurgery and neuro-intensive care unit (ICU), but it does not contain other electrolytes and has the potential to cause hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis with prolonged infusion. These problems may be reduced with the availability of balanced fluid (BF), which becomes a more physiological isotonic solution with the presence of complete electrolyte content. This study aimed to compare the changes in electrolytes and acid-base between NS and BF (Sterofundin® ISO) therapy for post-operative severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients in neuro-ICU. Sixty-six severe TBI patients who required emergency craniotomy or craniectomy and were planned for post-operative ventilation were randomised into NS ( n = 33) and BF therapy groups ( n = 33). The calculation of maintenance fluid given was based on the Holliday-Segar method. The electrolytes and acid-base parameters were assessed at an 8 h interval for 24 h. The data were analysed using repeated measures ANOVA. The NS group showed a significant lower base excess (-3.20 versus -1.35, P = 0.049), lower bicarbonate level (22.03 versus 23.48 mmol/L, P = 0.031), and more hyperchloremia (115.12 versus 111.74 mmol/L, P < 0.001) and hypokalemia (3.36 versus 3.70 mmol/L, P < 0.001) than the BF group at 24 h of therapy. The BF group showed a significantly higher level of calcium (1.97 versus 1.79 mmol/L, P = 0.003) and magnesium (0.94 versus 0.80 mmol/L, P < 0.001) than the NS group at 24 h of fluid therapy. No significant differences were found in pH, pCO 2 , lactate, and sodium level. BF therapy showed better effects in maintaining higher electrolyte parameters and reducing the trend toward hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis than the NS therapy during prolonged fluid therapy for postoperative TBI patients.

Response Growth With Sound Level in Auditory-Nerve Fibers After Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

PubMed Central

Heinz, Michael G.; Young, Eric D.

2010-01-01

People with sensorineural hearing loss are often constrained by a reduced acoustic dynamic range associated with loudness recruitment; however, the neural correlates of loudness and recruitment are still not well understood. The growth of auditory-nerve (AN) activity with sound level was compared in normal-hearing cats and in cats with a noise-induced hearing loss to test the hypothesis that AN-fiber rate-level functions are steeper in impaired ears. Stimuli included best-frequency and fixed-frequency tones, broadband noise, and a brief speech token. Three types of impaired responses were observed. 1) Fibers with rate-level functions that were similar across all stimuli typically had broad tuning, consistent with outer-hair-cell (OHC) damage. 2) Fibers with a wide dynamic range and shallow slope above threshold often retained sharp tuning, consistent with primarily inner-hair-cell (IHC) damage. 3) Fibers with very steep rate-level functions for all stimuli had thresholds above approximately 80 dB SPL and very broad tuning, consistent with severe IHC and OHC damage. Impaired rate-level slopes were on average shallower than normal for tones, and were steeper in only limited conditions. There was less variation in rate-level slopes across stimuli in impaired fibers, presumably attributable to the lack of suppression-induced reductions in slopes for complex stimuli relative to BF-tone slopes. Sloping saturation was observed less often in impaired fibers. These results illustrate that AN fibers do not provide a simple representation of the basilar-membrane I/O function and suggest that both OHC and IHC damage can affect AN response growth. PMID:14534289

Breastfeeding practice and knowledge among women attending primary health-care centers in Riyadh 2016

PubMed Central

Al-Mutairi, Norah Faleh; Al-Omran, Yousef Abdullah; Parameaswari, P. J.

2017-01-01

Introduction: Breast milk is the best natural essential nutrition to newborns and infants. However, the practice of breastfeeding (BF) has declined in Saudi Arabia. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge and practice of BF with their determinants among mothers in Riyadh. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 252 mothers attending the well-baby clinics in Riyadh from March 2016 to May 2017 were selected randomly with their consent and studied by a standardized questionnaire. Results: Of the 252 women, 69.4% were 25–35 years of age and 56.7% with a bachelor degree or higher education. Nearly 75% mothers had education on BF before our study. Mixed feeding was the most preferred method (51.6%) followed by artificial milk (29.4%). The most reported reason for discontinuing BF was breast milk insufficiency (37.3%) and of breastfeed continuation was their perceived benefit (36.6%). Excellent knowledge was observed among 12.7%, good knowledge in 57.1%, and unsatisfactory level in 30.2% mothers. The regression model shows that high school education improved the knowledge by 10.9 points (P = 0.024) and undergraduate by 18.7 points (P value = 0.001) when compared to women who were literate. Women with parity >5 improved knowledge score by 17.3 points (P < 0.001). Conclusion: We observed that majority (57.1%) of Saudi mothers had a moderate level of knowledge on BF benefits and 19% had practiced exclusive BF. There is a need for better educational programs to increase awareness on its benefits for the health situation in the country on the long term. PMID:29302553

β-adrenergic blockade does not impair the skin blood flow sensitivity to local heating in burned and non-burned skin under neutral and hot environments in children

PubMed Central

Rivas, Eric; McEntire, Serina J.; Herndon, David N.; Mlcak, Ronald P.; Suman, Oscar E.

2017-01-01

Objective Tested the hypothesis that propranolol, a drug given to burn patients to reduce hypermetabolism/cardiac stress, may inhibit heat dissipation by changing the sensitivity of skin blood flow (SkBF) to local heating under neutral and hot conditions. Methods In a randomized double-blind study, a placebo was given to 8 burned children while propranolol was given to 13 burned children with similar characteristics (mean ± SD: 11.9±3y, 147±20cm, 45±23kg, 56±12% TBSA). Non-burned children (n=13, 11.4±3y, 152±15cm, 52±13kg) served as healthy controls. A progressive local heating protocol characterized SkBF responses in burned and unburned skin and non-burned control skin under the two environmental conditions (23°C and 34°C) via laser-Doppler flowmetry. Results Resting SkBF was greater in burned and unburned skin compared to the non-burned control (main effect: skin, P<0.0001; 57±32 burned; 38±36 unburned vs 9±8 control %SkBFmax). No difference was found for maximal SkBF capacity to local heating between groups. Additionally, dose response curves for the sensitivity of SkBF to local heating were not different among burned or unburned skin, and non-burned control skin (EC50, P>0.05) under either condition. Conclusion Therapeutic propranolol does not negatively affect SkBF under neutral or hot environmental conditions and further compromise temperature regulation in burned children. PMID:28071840

The Cancer of the Prostate Risk Assessment (CAPRA) score predicts biochemical recurrence in intermediate-risk prostate cancer treated with external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) dose escalation or low-dose rate (LDR) brachytherapy.

PubMed

Krishnan, Vimal; Delouya, Guila; Bahary, Jean-Paul; Larrivée, Sandra; Taussky, Daniel

2014-12-01

To study the prognostic value of the University of California, San Francisco Cancer of the Prostate Risk Assessment (CAPRA) score to predict biochemical failure (bF) after various doses of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and/or permanent seed low-dose rate (LDR) prostate brachytherapy (PB). We retrospectively analysed 345 patients with intermediate-risk prostate cancer, with PSA levels of 10-20 ng/mL and/or Gleason 7 including 244 EBRT patients (70.2-79.2 Gy) and 101 patients treated with LDR PB. The minimum follow-up was 3 years. No patient received primary androgen-deprivation therapy. bF was defined according to the Phoenix definition. Cox regression analysis was used to estimate the differences between CAPRA groups. The overall bF rate was 13% (45/345). The CAPRA score, as a continuous variable, was statistically significant in multivariate analysis for predicting bF (hazard ratio [HR] 1.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10-1.72, P = 0.006). There was a trend for a lower bF rate in patients treated with LDR PB when compared with those treated by EBRT ≤ 74 Gy (HR 0.234, 95% CI 0.05-1.03, P = 0.055) in multivariate analysis. In the subgroup of patients with a CAPRA score of 3-5, CAPRA remained predictive of bF as a continuous variable (HR 1.51, 95% CI 1.01-2.27, P = 0.047) in multivariate analysis. The CAPRA score is useful for predicting biochemical recurrence in patients treated for intermediate-risk prostate cancer with EBRT or LDR PB. It could help in treatment decisions. © 2013 The Authors. BJU International © 2013 BJU International.

Generalised equations for the prediction of percentage body fat by anthropometry in adult men and women aged 18-81 years.

PubMed

Leahy, Siobhan; O'Neill, Cian; Sohun, Rhoda; Toomey, Clodagh; Jakeman, Philip

2013-02-28

Anthropometric data indicate that the human phenotype is changing. Today's adult is greater in stature, body mass and fat mass. Accurate measurement of body composition is necessary to maintain surveillance of obesity within the population and to evaluate associated interventions. The aim of the present study was to construct and validate generalised equations for percentage body fat (%BF) prediction from anthropometry in 1136 adult men and women. Reference values for %BF were obtained using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Skinfold thickness (SF) at ten sites and girth (G) at seven sites were measured on 736 men and women aged 18-81 years (%BF 5·1-56·8%). Quantile regression was employed to construct prediction equations from age and log-transformed SF and G measures. These equations were then cross-validated on a cohort of 400 subjects of similar age and fatness. The following generalised equations were found to most accurately predict %BF: Men: (age x 0·1) + (logtricepsSF x 7·6) + (logmidaxillaSF x 8·8) + (logsuprspinaleSF x 11·9) - 11·3 (standard error of the estimate: 2·5%, 95% limits of agreement: - 4·8, + 4·9) Women: (age x 0·1) + (logabdominalG x 39·4) + (logmidaxillaSF x 4·9) + (logbicepsSF x 11·0) + (logmedialcalfSF x 9·1) - 73·5 (standard error of the estimate: 3·0%, 95% limits of agreement: - 5·7, + 5·9) These generalised anthropometric equations accurately predict %BF and are suitable for the measurement of %BF in adult men and women of varying levels of fatness across the lifespan.

Ensiling Characteristics and the In situ Nutrient Degradability of a By-product Feed-based Silage.

PubMed

Kim, Y I; Oh, Y K; Park, K K; Kwak, W S

2014-02-01

This study was conducted to evaluate the ensiling characteristics and the in situ degradability of a by-product feed (BF)-based silage. Before ensilation, the BF-based mixture was composed of 50% spent mushroom substrate, 21% recycled poultry bedding, 15% ryegrass straw, 10.8% rice bran, 2% molasses, 0.6% bentonite, and 0.6% microbial inoculant on a wet basis and ensiled for up to 4 weeks. The BF-based silage contained on average 39.3% moisture, 13.4% crude protein (CP), and 52.2% neutral detergent fiber (NDF), 49% total digestible nutrient, and 37.8% physically effective NDF1.18 on a dry matter (DM) basis. Ensiling the BF-based silage for up to 4 weeks affected (p<0.01) the chemical composition to a small extent, increased (p<0.05) the lactic acid and NH3-N content, and decreased (p<0.05) both the total bacterial and lactic acid bacterial counts from 10(9) to 10(8) cfu/g when compared to that before ensiling. These parameters indicated that the silage was fermented and stored well during the 4-week ensiling period. Compared with rice or ryegrass straws, the BF-based silage had a higher (p<0.05) water-soluble and filterable fraction, a lower insoluble degradable DM and CP fraction (p<0.05), a lower digestible NDF (p<0.05) fraction, a higher (p<0.05) DM and CP disappearance and degradability rate, and a lower (p<0.05) NDF disappearance and degradability rate. These results indicated that cheap, good-quality BF-based roughage could be produced by ensiling SMS, RPB, rice bran, and a minimal amount of straw.

Tris(acetonitrile)chloropalladium tetrafluoroborate synthesis, application and structural analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dybała, Izabela; Demchuk, Oleg M.

2016-10-01

Results of the single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis of tris(acetonitrile)chloropalladium tetrafluoroborate [PdCl(CH3CN)3]BF4 are presented in details. It was found that the title compound crystallises in the monoclinic system, in the space group C2/c. The role of charge-assisted C-HṡṡṡF-B interactions in crystal architecture was investigated. Due to its untypical properties the prepared [PdCl(CH3CN)3]BF4 has proved to be an excellent palladium source in the synthesis of phosphine-palladium complexes.

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN BODY COMPOSITION, SOMATOTYPE AND SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS IN CHILEAN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS AT DIFFERENT SCHOOL LEVELS.

PubMed

Lizana, Pablo A; González, Sofia; Lera, Lydia; Leyton, Bárbara

2018-01-01

This study examined the association between body composition, somatotype and socioeconomic status (SES) in Chilean children and adolescents by sex and school level (grade). The cross-sectional study was conducted on 1168 schoolchildren aged 6-18 years (572 males) from Valparaíso, Chile. Body composition, as assessed by percentage body fat (BF%) and somatotype, was evaluated using Ellis equations and the Heath-Carter method, respectively. The socioeconomic status of respondents was assessed using the ESOMAR survey. Obesity was defined as BF% ≥25 for boys and ≥30 for girls; 'high endomorph' somatotype was defined as a somatotype endomorph component (EC) of at least 5.5. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the relationship between high adiposity and SES, potential confounding factors and school level. In females, the results indicated that the groups with lower SES had higher EC. At the 1st (youngest) school level (1-4th grades), males exhibited similar trends in their BF% and EC. High adiposity was associated with the female sex (BF%: OR=3.39; 95% CI 2.60, 4.41; high EC: OR=2.31; 95% CI 1.80, 2.98). In addition, low SES increased the risk of high adiposity compared with high SES (BF%: OR=2.25; 95% CI 1.40, 3.61; high EC: OR=2.19; 95% CI 1.37, 3.47). An association was observed between increased adiposity and lower SES, mainly in females, which indicates that females with low SES might be at greater risk of obesity.

Differential scanning calorimetric study of nonionic surfactant mixtures with a room temperature ionic liquid, bmimBF4.

PubMed

Inoue, Tohru; Higuchi, Yuka; Misono, Takeshi

2009-10-01

The melting behavior of polyethyleneglycol dodecyl ethers (C(12)E(6), C(12)E(7), and C(12)E(8)) in a room temperature ionic liquid, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (bmimBF(4)), was investigated by means of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The melting temperature as a function of the surfactant concentration, combined with the cmc curve and cloud point curve, provided phase diagrams for the surfactant/bmimBF(4) mixtures in solvent-rich region. The characteristic feature of the mixtures is an existence of the Krafft temperature which is usually not observed with aqueous solutions of nonionic surfactants. The heat of fusion as a function of the surfactant concentration provided the interaction energy between the surfactant and bmimBF(4). The interaction energy shows a linear dependence on the length of polyoxyethylene (POE) chain of the surfactants, which suggests that the solvation takes place around the POE chain.

Boeing-747 aircraft with external cargo pod

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Quartero, C. B.; Washburn, G. F.; Price, J. E.

1978-01-01

An analysis was conducted to investigate the feasibility of mounting a detachable pod to the underside of the fuselage of a Boeing Model 747 aircraft to carry outsized cargo in case of military emergency. The analysis showed that the 747 configured with the pod and carrying only a bridge launcher as payload attained a range of 8.70 Mm (4 700 n. mi.) at Mach .68. This range was based on a maximum take-off gross weight of 3.447 MN (775 000 1bf) which included 212 kN (47 700 lbf) pod weight and 543 kN (122 000 lbf) payload (bridge launcher).

Haemodynamic kinetics and intermittent finger flexor performance in rock climbers.

PubMed

Fryer, S; Stoner, L; Lucero, A; Witter, T; Scarrott, C; Dickson, T; Cole, M; Draper, N

2015-02-01

Currently it is unclear whether blood flow (BF) or muscle oxidative capacity best governs performance during intermittent contractions to failure. The aim of this study was to determine oxygenation kinetics and BF responses during intermittent (10 s contraction: 3 s release) contractions at 40% of MVC in rock climbers of different ability (N=38). Total forearm BF, as well as de-oxygenation and re-oxygenation of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) and the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) were assessed. Compared to the control, intermediate and advanced groups, the elite climbers had a significantly (p<0.05) greater force time integral (FTI), MVC and MVC/kg. Furthermore, the elite climbers de-oxygenated the FDP significantly more during the first (7.8, 11.9, 12.4 vs. 15.7 O2%) and middle (7.3, 8.8, 10.4 vs.15.3 O2%) phases of contractions as well as for the FCR during the first phase only (8.3, 7, 11.7 vs. 13.3 O2%). They also had a significantly higher BF upon release of the contractions (656, 701, 764 vs. 971 mL ∙ min(-1)). The higher FTI seen in elite climbers may be attributable to a greater blood delivery, and an enhanced O2 recovery during the 3 s release periods, as well as a superior muscle oxidative capacity associated with the greater de-oxygenation during the 10 s contractions. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Gender Difference in Aerobic Capacity and the Contribution by Body Composition and Haemoglobin Concentration: A Study in Young Indian National Hockey Players

PubMed Central

Kailashiya, Jyotsna

2016-01-01

Introduction Although gender difference in aerobic capacity is known, the contributing factors have been researched seldom. Aim To investigate the gender gap and the contribution by percentage Body Fat (BF), Body Mass Index (BMI) and haemoglobin concentration Hb. Materials and Methods The study was conducted on 30 (17 males, 13 females) training status matched young hockey players. Healthy players who were playing upto national level competition were included. BW (Body Weight), BF, BMI, LBM (Lean Body Mass), rHR (restring Heart Rate), HRR (Heart Rate Recovery), Hb, a/rVO2max (absolute/relative), a/rPWC (Physical Work Capacity) and RMR (Resting Metabolic Rate) were measured and analysed. Results There was significant gender difference in the measured parameters. Difference in a/rVO2max remained significant even after controlling for BF, BMI and Hb. Multiple regression and correlation analysis revealed gender difference in VO2max/LBM was due to: BMI(31.91%)>BF(27.60%)>Hb(9.91%). BMI also significantly contributed 3.66% of VO2max/LBM variance, independent of that by gender. Difference in RMR was mainly related to LBM, BF and BMI. Conclusion The study provided an understanding for gender gap in aerobic capacity. Differences in BMI & BF were one of the main reasons. PMID:28050360

BF*F allotype of the alternative pathway of complement: A marker of protection against the development of antiphospholipid antibodies in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

PubMed

Picceli, V F; Skare, T L; Nisihara, R M; Nass, F R; Messias-Reason, I T; Utiyama, S R R

2016-04-01

B factor (BF) from the alternative complement pathway seems to participate in the pathophysiology of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). To study the allotypic variability of BF in SLE and their associations with clinical and autoantibodies profile. BF allotypes were determined by high-voltage agarose gel electrophoresis, under constant cooling, followed by immunofixation with anti-human BF antibody, in 188 SLE patients and 103 controls. Clinical and serological data were obtained from medical examination and records. No significant differences of BF variants between patients and controls were found, neither in relation to epidemiologic or clinical manifestations. Associations of phenotype BF SS07 and allotype BF*S07 were found with anticardiolipin IgM (aCl-IgM) antibodies (p = 0.014 and p = 0.009 respectively), but not with aCl-IgG, lupus anticoagulant (LA), anti β2GPI or clinical APS. A significant decrease in BF*F allotype (p = 0.043) and BF SF phenotype (p = 0.018) was detected in patients with anti-phospholipid antibodies as a whole (aCl-IgG, aCl-IgM, LA and anti β2GPI). There is a link between phenotype BF SS07 and allotype BF*S07 with aCl-IgM in SLE patients; BF*F allotype could be considered a marker of protection against the development of antiphospholipid antibodies in these patients. © The Author(s) 2015.

Comparison of success of tracheal intubation using Macintosh laryngoscope-assisted Bonfils fiberscope and Truview video laryngoscope in simulated difficult airway

PubMed Central

Vivek, Bangaru; Sripriya, R.; Mishra, Gayatri; Ravishankar, M.; Parthasarathy, S.

2017-01-01

Background and Aims: Restriction of head and neck movements prevents the alignment of the oral, pharyngeal, and laryngeal axes and increases the incidence of difficult tracheal intubation in patients with cervical spine fractures. Video laryngoscopes have gained an important role in the management of difficult intubation, especially in situations with limited head and neck movements. This study compares the success of intubation using Macintosh laryngoscope assisted Bonfils® fiberscope (ML-BF) with TruviewPCD video laryngoscope (TV) in patients with simulated restricted head and neck movements. Material and Methods: One hundred and fifty-two patients satisfying the inclusion criteria were randomly allocated to two groups of 76 each. Patients were made to lie supine on the table without a pillow and a soft collar was used to restrict head and neck movements. After a standardized premedication-induction sequence, tracheal intubation was done either with ML-BF or TV. Success of intubation, time taken for successful intubation, hemodynamic changes, airway trauma, and postoperative oropharyngeal morbidity were noted. Results: Intubation was successful in all the 76 patients in direct laryngoscopy-Bonfils fiberscope group and 75 out of 76 patients in TV group within the specified time (90 s). The median time taken for successful intubation with TV and ML-BF were 44 (range 26–80) s and 49 (range 28–83) s, respectively. Hemodynamic changes, airway trauma, and postoperative oropharyngeal morbidity were similar in both groups. Conclusion: Both TV and ML-BF are equally effective for successful tracheal intubation in patients with simulated restricted head and neck movements. In cases of difficult laryngeal visualization with routine Macintosh laryngoscope, Bonfils can be used as an adjunct to achieve successful intubation in the same laryngoscopy attempt. PMID:28413282

Calix[4]arene-phosphine dimers: precursors of flexible metallo-capsules and self-compacting molecules.

PubMed

Sameni, Soheila; Jeunesse, Catherine; Matt, Dominique; Toupet, Loïc

2009-10-12

The first diphosphines based on a double calixarene, namely 1,4 (or 1,3)-bis-(5-diphenylphosphino-25,26,27,28-tetrapropoxycalix[4]aren-17-yl)benzene (L(2), L(3)) were each prepared in four steps starting from 5,17-dibromo-25,26,27,28-tetrapropoxycalix[4]arene. Upon reaction of L(2) with [Au(tht)(thf)]BF(4), (tht = C(4)H(8)S) a rigid metallo-capsule was quantitatively formed, which adopts an oblique form owing to the distinct nature of the spacers linking the two calixarene half-spheres. In the solid state, the 1,4-substituted phenylene linker is turned towards the gold ion, suggesting the existence of weak bonding interactions between two aromatic CH protons of this ring and the metal centre (AuH =2.67 A). In contrast to this gold complex, the related silver complex shows dynamic behaviour in solution, the exchange between two enantiomeric oblique forms being facilitated by the greater stereochemical flexibility of Ag(I) vs. Au(I). A heteronuclear (109)Ag{(1)H} HMQC experiment established strong correlations between the CH protons of the phenylene linker and the (109)Ag ion. Dynamic behaviour similar to that observed for the silver complex was further observed in trans-[PtCl(2)L(2)], a chelate complex that could be obtained quantitatively from L(2) and [PtCl(2)(PhCN)(2)]. The intended formation of a chelate complex leading to a capsule with an endo-oriented metal centre was achieved by reacting L(3) with [Pd(allyl)(thf)(2)]BF(4). The complex thus formed constitutes the first organometallic transition metal complex embedded in a cavity with large portals. Binding of [RuCl(2)(p-cymene)] to L(2) and L(3) resulted in self-compacting bimetallic complexes in which each calixarene basket entraps a Ru(p-cymene) unit, thereby forming molecules occupying a minimal volume.

Effect of body composition, aerobic performance and physical activity on exercise-induced oxidative stress in healthy subjects.

PubMed

Więcek, Magdalena; Maciejczyk, Marcin; Szymura, Jadwiga; Wiecha, Szczepan; Kantorowicz, Malgorzata; Szygula, Zbigniew

2017-01-01

Oxidative stress could be the result of an increase in ATP resynthesis during exercise. The aim of the study was to compare prooxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) disturbances induced by exercise at maximal intensity in young men with differing body compositions. Thirty-nine subjects were selected from 1549 volunteers aged 18-30, based on lean body mass (LBM) and body fat percentage (%BF), and then assigned into one of the following groups: control group (CON), including subjects with average LBM (59.0-64.3 kg) and average %BF (14.0-18.5%); high body fat (HBF) group, including subjects with high %BF (>21.5%) and average LBM; and high lean body mass (HLBM) group, including subjects with high LBM (>66.3 kg) and average %BF. Participants' physical activity was determined. A running test with a gradually increased load was used. Before and 3 minutes after exercise, total oxidative status (TOS) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were determined in the plasma, and the Oxidative Stress Index (OSI = TOS/TAC) was calculated. Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) was comparable in the HBF and HLBM groups (53.12±1.51 mL/kg and 50.25±1.27 mL/kg, respectively) and significantly lower compared to the CON group (58.23±1.62 mL/kg). The CON, HBF and HLBM groups showed similar significant (P<0.05) increases in TOS levels (36%, 35% and 31%, respectively). Post-exercise TAC increased by 8% in the HBF and HLBM groups (P<0.05), compared to the 3% increase in the CON group (P>0.05). There was significant negative correlation between OSI, measured before and after exercise, and participants' physical activity. There was no correlation between OSI and VO2max, BM, LBM, %BF and BMI. Exercise at maximal intensity causes a similar increase in TOS and in TAC in subjects with increased %BF and elevated content of LBM and regardless of body composition, the ratios of TOS/TAC concentrations before and after maximal-intensity exercise, have lower values in people with higher physical activity levels and are not dependent on aerobic performance (VO2max).

Quantification of tumor perfusion using dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasound: impact of mathematical modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doury, Maxime; Dizeux, Alexandre; de Cesare, Alain; Lucidarme, Olivier; Pellot-Barakat, Claire; Bridal, S. Lori; Frouin, Frédérique

2017-02-01

Dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasound has been proposed to monitor tumor therapy, as a complement to volume measurements. To assess the variability of perfusion parameters in ideal conditions, four consecutive test-retest studies were acquired in a mouse tumor model, using controlled injections. The impact of mathematical modeling on parameter variability was then investigated. Coefficients of variation (CV) of tissue blood volume (BV) and tissue blood flow (BF) based-parameters were estimated inside 32 sub-regions of the tumors, comparing the log-normal (LN) model with a one-compartment model fed by an arterial input function (AIF) and improved by the introduction of a time delay parameter. Relative perfusion parameters were also estimated by normalization of the LN parameters and normalization of the one-compartment parameters estimated with the AIF, using a reference tissue (RT) region. A direct estimation (rRTd) of relative parameters, based on the one-compartment model without using the AIF, was also obtained by using the kinetics inside the RT region. Results of test-retest studies show that absolute regional parameters have high CV, whatever the approach, with median values of about 30% for BV, and 40% for BF. The positive impact of normalization was established, showing a coherent estimation of relative parameters, with reduced CV (about 20% for BV and 30% for BF using the rRTd approach). These values were significantly lower (p  <  0.05) than the CV of absolute parameters. The rRTd approach provided the smallest CV and should be preferred for estimating relative perfusion parameters.

The influence of anthropometry and body composition on children's bone health: the childhood health, activity and motor performance school (the CHAMPS) study, Denmark.

PubMed

Heidemann, Malene; Holst, René; Schou, Anders J; Klakk, Heidi; Husby, Steffen; Wedderkopp, Niels; Mølgaard, Christian

2015-02-01

Overweight, physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour have become increasing problems during the past decade. Increased sedentary behaviour may change the body composition (BC) by increasing the fat mass relative to the lean mass (LM). These changes may influence bone health to describe how anthropometry and BC predict the development of the bone accruement. The longitudinal study is a part of The CHAMPS study-DK. Children were DXA scanned at baseline and at 2-year follow-up. BC (LM, BF %) and BMC, BMD and BA were measured. The relationship between bone traits, anthropometry and BC was analysed by multilevel regression analyses. Of the invited children, 742/800 (93%) accepted to participate. Of these, 682/742 (92%) participated at follow-up. Mean (range) of age at baseline was 9.5 years (7.7-12.1). Height, BMI, LM and BF % predicted bone mineral accrual and bone size positively and independently. Height and BMI are both positive predictors of bone accruement. LM is a more precise predictor of bone traits than BF % in both genders. The effects of height and BMI and LM on bone accruement are nearly identical in the two genders, while changes in BF % have different but positive effects on bone accretion in both boys and girls.

Micronutrient Status and Nutritional Intake in 0- to 2-Year-old Children Consuming a Cows' Milk Exclusion Diet.

PubMed

Kvammen, Janne A; Thomassen, Rut A; Eskerud, Mari B; Rugtveit, Jarle; Henriksen, Christine

2018-05-01

To study micronutrient status and nutritional intake from complementary feeding in children on a cows' milk exclusion (CME) diet. Fifty-seven children with cows' milk allergy, younger than 2 years, were included in a cross-sectional study. Blood was analyzed for micronutrient status. Complementary feeding was defined as all solids and liquids except of breast milk, and assessed by 3-day food diary. The results were analyzed according to 3 feeding patterns: mainly breast-fed (mBF), partially breast-fed, and no breast milk group (nBM). The children had a median age of 9 months and micronutrient status was within normal range for total homocysteine (p-tHcy), s-B12, s-folate, b-Hb, s-ferritin, s-zinc, and s-25(OH)D. There were no significant differences between feedings groups, except for B12-biomarkers. The mBF had higher p-tHcy (P < 0.000) and lower s-B12 (P = 0.002) compared nBM. Vitamin B12 deficiency (p-tHcy >6.5 μmol/L combined with s-B12 <250 pmol/L) was found in 12% of participants, most frequently among the mBF (36%) and none in nBM group (P = 0.009). Vitamin B12 intake from complementary feeding was negatively correlated with p-tHcy (r = -0.479, P = 0.001) and positively with s-B12 (r = 0.410, P = 0.003). Iron deficiency anemia was found in 5%. Iron intake correlated positively with b-Hb (r = 0.324, P = 0.02). Zinc deficiency was found in 7% and low 25(OH)D in 9%. Vitamin D intake was positively correlated with the use of supplements (r = 0.456, P = 0.001). The risk of B12 deficiency was high in mBF infants on CME diet, and complementary feeding was associated with better B12 status. Iron, zinc, and vitamin D deficiencies were present in all feeding groups. Complementary feeding should be introduced at 4 to 6 months of age. Vitamin D supplement is recommended to ensure adequate intake.

Modifications in lower leg muscle activation when walking barefoot or in minimalist shoes across different age-groups.

PubMed

Franklin, Simon; Li, François-Xavier; Grey, Michael J

2018-02-01

Ageing is associated with a decline in muscle strength and impaired sensory mechanisms which contribute to an increased risk of falls. Walking barefooted has been suggested to promote increased muscle strength and improved proprioceptive sensibility through better activation of foot and ankle musculature. Minimalist footwear has been marketed as a method of reaping the suggested benefits of barefoot walking whilst still providing a protective surface. The aim of this study was to investigate if walking barefoot or in minimalist footwear provokes increased muscle activation compared to walking in conventional footwear. Seventy healthy adults (age range 20-87) volunteered for this study. All participants walked along a 7m walking lane five times in four different footwear conditions (barefoot (BF), minimalist shoes (MSH), their own shoes (SH) and control shoes (CON)). Muscle activity of their tibialis anterior (TA), gastrocnemius medialis (GCM) and peroneus longus (PL) were recorded simultaneously and normalised to the BF condition. MSH are intermediate in terms of ankle kinematics and muscle activation patterns. Walking BF or in MSH results in a decrease in TA activity at initial stance due to a flatter foot at contact in comparison to conventional footwear. Walking BF reduces PL activity at initial stance in the young and middle age but not the old. Walking in supportive footwear appears to reduce the balance modulation role of the GCM in the young and middle age but not the old, possibly as a result of slower walking speed when BF. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Relationship of body mass index to percent body fat and waist circumference among schoolchildren in Japan - the influence of gender and obesity: a population-based cross-sectional study

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Although the correlation coefficient between body mass index (BMI) and percent body fat (%BF) or waist circumference (WC) has been reported, studies conducted among population-based schoolchildren to date have been limited in Japan, where %BF and WC are not usually measured in annual health examinations at elementary schools or junior high schools. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship of BMI to %BF and WC and to examine the influence of gender and obesity on these relationships among Japanese schoolchildren. Methods Subjects included 3,750 schoolchildren from the fourth and seventh grade in Ina-town, Saitama Prefecture, Japan between 2004 and 2008. Information about subject's age, sex, height, weight, %BF, and WC was collected from annual physical examinations. %BF was measured with a bipedal biometrical impedance analysis device. Obesity was defined by the following two criteria: the obese definition of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the definition of obesity for Japanese children. Pearson's correlation coefficients between BMI and %BF or WC were calculated separately for sex. Results Among fourth graders, the correlation coefficients between BMI and %BF were 0.74 for boys and 0.97 for girls, whereas those between BMI and WC were 0.94 for boys and 0.90 for girls. Similar results were observed in the analysis of seventh graders. The correlation coefficient between BMI and %BF varied by physique (obese or non-obese), with weaker correlations among the obese regardless of the definition of obesity; most correlation coefficients among obese boys were less than 0.5, whereas most correlations among obese girls were more than 0.7. On the other hand, the correlation coefficients between BMI and WC were more than 0.8 among boys and almost all coefficients were more than 0.7 among girls, regardless of physique. Conclusions BMI was positively correlated with %BF and WC among Japanese schoolchildren. The correlations could be influenced by obesity as well as by gender. Accordingly, it is essential to consider gender and obesity when using BMI as a surrogate for %BF and WC for epidemiological use. PMID:20716379

Non-Targeted Metabolomics Analysis of Golden Retriever Muscular Dystrophy-Affected Muscles Reveals Alterations in Arginine and Proline Metabolism, and Elevations in Glutamic and Oleic Acid In Vivo.

PubMed

Abdullah, Muhammad; Kornegay, Joe N; Honcoop, Aubree; Parry, Traci L; Balog-Alvarez, Cynthia J; O'Neal, Sara K; Bain, James R; Muehlbauer, Michael J; Newgard, Christopher B; Patterson, Cam; Willis, Monte S

2017-07-29

Like Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), the Golden Retriever Muscular Dystrophy (GRMD) dog model of DMD is characterized by muscle necrosis, progressive paralysis, and pseudohypertrophy in specific skeletal muscles. This severe GRMD phenotype includes moderate atrophy of the biceps femoris (BF) as compared to unaffected normal dogs, while the long digital extensor (LDE), which functions to flex the tibiotarsal joint and serves as a digital extensor, undergoes the most pronounced atrophy. A recent microarray analysis of GRMD identified alterations in genes associated with lipid metabolism and energy production. We, therefore, undertook a non-targeted metabolomics analysis of the milder/earlier stage disease GRMD BF muscle versus the more severe/chronic LDE using GC-MS to identify underlying metabolic defects specific for affected GRMD skeletal muscle. Untargeted metabolomics analysis of moderately-affected GRMD muscle (BF) identified eight significantly altered metabolites, including significantly decreased stearamide (0.23-fold of controls, p = 2.89 × 10 -3 ), carnosine (0.40-fold of controls, p = 1.88 × 10 -2 ), fumaric acid (0.40-fold of controls, p = 7.40 × 10 -4 ), lactamide (0.33-fold of controls, p = 4.84 × 10 -2 ), myoinositol-2-phosphate (0.45-fold of controls, p = 3.66 × 10 -2 ), and significantly increased oleic acid (1.77-fold of controls, p = 9.27 × 10 -2 ), glutamic acid (2.48-fold of controls, p = 2.63 × 10 -2 ), and proline (1.73-fold of controls, p = 3.01 × 10 -2 ). Pathway enrichment analysis identified significant enrichment for arginine/proline metabolism (p = 5.88 × 10 -4 , FDR 4.7 × 10 -2 ), where alterations in L-glutamic acid, proline, and carnosine were found. Additionally, multiple Krebs cycle intermediates were significantly decreased (e.g., malic acid, fumaric acid, citric/isocitric acid, and succinic acid), suggesting that altered energy metabolism may be underlying the observed GRMD BF muscle dysfunction. In contrast, two pathways, inosine-5'-monophosphate (VIP Score 3.91) and 3-phosphoglyceric acid (VIP Score 3.08) mainly contributed to the LDE signature, with two metabolites (phosphoglyceric acid and inosine-5'-monophosphate) being significantly decreased. When the BF and LDE were compared, the most significant metabolite was phosphoric acid, which was significantly less in the GRMD BF compared to control and GRMD LDE groups. The identification of elevated BF oleic acid (a long-chain fatty acid) is consistent with recent microarray studies identifying altered lipid metabolism genes, while alterations in arginine and proline metabolism are consistent with recent studies identifying elevated L-arginine in DMD patient sera as a biomarker of disease. Together, these studies demonstrate muscle-specific alterations in GRMD-affected muscle, which illustrate previously unidentified metabolic changes.

Ground albedo neutrons produced by cosmic radiations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kodama, M.

1983-05-01

Day-to-day variations of cosmic-ray-produced neutron fluxes near the earth's ground surface are measured by using three sets of paraffin-moderated BF3 counters, which are installed in different locations, 3 m above ground, ground level, and 20 cm under ground. Neutron flux decreases observed by these counters when snowcover exists show that there are upward-moving neutrons, that is, ground albedo neutron near the ground surface. The amount of albedo neutrons is estimated to be about 40 percent of total neutron flux in the energy range 1-10 to the 6th eV.

Coordination preference and magnetic properties of FeII assemblies with a bis-azole bearing 1,2,4-triazole and tetrazole

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naik, Anil D.; Railliet, Antoine P.; Dîrtu, Marinela M.; Garcia, Yann

2012-03-01

With a new bis-azole molecular fragment ( Htt) bearing 1,2,4-triazole and tetrazole, a mononuclear complex [Fe(tt)2(H2O)4]·2H2O ( 1), a trinuclear complex [Fe3(tt)6(H2O)6]·2H2O ( 2) and a 1D coordination polymer [Fe(tt)(Htt)2]BF4·2CH3OH ( 3) were obtained by varying reaction conditions. Htt acts either as an anionic or neutral ligand depending upon the reaction medium and pH. Thermal variation of spin states of 1- 3 were investigated in the range 77-300 K by 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy. 1 totally remains in high-spin state over the entire temperature range whereas no spin crossover was evidenced in 2. Nearly 1:1 high-spin and low-spin population ratio is found in 3, which remains constant over the entire temperature range investigated.

Evaluation of zona pellucida birefringence intensity during in vitro maturation of oocytes from stimulated cycles.

PubMed

Petersen, Claudia G; Vagnini, Laura D; Mauri, Ana L; Massaro, Fabiana C; Silva, Liliane F I; Cavagna, Mario; Baruffi, Ricardo L R; Oliveira, Joao B A; Franco, José G

2011-04-23

This study evaluated whether there is a relationship between the zona pellucida birefringence (ZP-BF) intensity and the nuclear (NM) and cytoplasmic (CM) in vitro maturation of human oocytes from stimulated cycles. The ZP-BF was evaluated under an inverted microscope with a polarizing optical system and was scored as high/positive (when the ZP image presented a uniform and intense birefringence) or low/negative (when the image presented moderate and heterogeneous birefringence). CM was analyzed by evaluating the distribution of cortical granules (CGs) throughout the ooplasm by immunofluorescence staining. CM was classified as: complete, when CG was localized in the periphery; incomplete, when oocytes presented a cluster of CGs in the center; or in transition, when oocytes had both in clusters throughout cytoplasm and distributed in a layer in the cytoplasm periphery Nuclear maturation: From a total of 83 germinal vesicle (GV) stage oocytes, 58 of oocytes (69.9%) reached NM at the metaphase II stage. From these 58 oocytes matured in vitro, the high/positively scoring ZP-BF was presented in 82.7% of oocytes at the GV stage, in 75.8% of oocytes when at the metaphase I, and in 82.7% when oocytes reached MII. No relationship was observed between NM and ZP-BF positive/negative scores (P = 0.55). These variables had a low Pearson's correlation coefficient (r = 0.081). Cytoplasmic maturation: A total of 85 in vitro-matured MII oocytes were fixed for CM evaluation. Forty-nine oocytes of them (57.6%) showed the complete CM, 30 (61.2%) presented a high/positively scoring ZP-BF and 19 (38.8%) had a low/negatively scoring ZP-BF. From 36 oocytes (42.3%) with incomplete CM, 18 (50%) presented a high/positively scoring ZPBF and 18 (50%) had a low/negatively scoring ZP-BF. No relationship was observed between CM and ZP-BF positive/negative scores (P = 0.42). These variables had a low Pearson's correlation coefficient (r = 0.11). The current study demonstrated an absence of relationship between ZP-BF high/positive or low/negative score and nuclear and cytoplasmic in vitro maturation of oocytes from stimulation cycles.

Breastfeeding and growth during infancy among offspring of mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus: a prospective cohort study.

PubMed

Gunderson, E P; Greenspan, L C; Faith, M S; Hurston, S R; Quesenberry, C P

2018-04-24

Breastfeeding (BF) may protect against obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus in children exposed to maternal diabetes in utero, but its effects on infant growth among this high-risk group have rarely been evaluated. The objective of this study was to evaluate BF intensity and duration in relation to infant growth from birth through 12 months among offspring of mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Prospective cohort of 464 GDM mother-infant dyads (28% White, 36% Hispanic, 26% Asian, 8% Black, 2% other). Weight and length measured at birth, 6-9 weeks, 6 months and 12 months. Categorized as intensive BF or formula feeding (FF) groups at 6-9 weeks (study baseline), and intensity from birth through 12 months as Group 1: consistent exclusive/mostly FF, Group 2: transition from BF to FF within 3-9 months and Group 3: consistent exclusive/mostly BF. Multivariable mixed linear regression models estimated adjusted mean (95% confidence interval) change in z-scores; weight-for-length (WLZ), weight-for-age and length-for-age. Compared with intensive BF at 6-9 weeks, FF showed greater increases in WLZ-scores from 6 to 9 weeks to 6 months [+0.38 (0.13 to 0.62) vs. +0.02 (-0.15 to 0.19); p = 0.02] and birth to 12 months [+1.11 (0.87 to 1.34) vs. +0.53 (0.37 to 0.69); p < 0.001]. For 12-month intensity and duration, Groups 2 and 3 had smaller WLZ-score increases than Group 1 from 6 to 9 weeks to 6 months [-0.05 (-0.27 to 0.18) and +0.07 (-0.19 to 0.23) vs. +0.40 (0.15 to 0.64); p = 0.01 and 0.07], and birth to 12 months [+0.60 (0.39 to 0.82) and +0.59 (0.33 to 0.85) vs. +0.97 (0.75 to 1.19); p < 0.05]. Among offspring of mothers with GDM, high intensity BF from birth through 1 year is associated with slower infant ponderal growth and lower weight gain. © 2018 World Obesity Federation.

Nonisothermal Carbothermal Reduction Kinetics of Titanium-Bearing Blast Furnace Slag

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Mengjun; Wei, Ruirui; Hu, Meilong; Wen, Liangying; Ying, Fangqing

2018-05-01

The kinetics of carbothermal reduction of titanium-bearing blast furnace (BF) slag has been studied by thermogravimetric analysis and quadrupole mass spectrometry. The kinetic parameters (activation energy, preexponential factor, and reaction model function) were determined using the Flynn-Wall-Ozawa and Šatava-Šesták methods. The results indicated that reduction of titanium-bearing BF slag can be divided into two stages, namely reduction of phases containing iron and gasification of carbon (< 1095°C), followed by reduction of phases containing titanium (> 1095°C). CO2 was the main off-gas in the temperature range of 530-700°C, whereas CO became the main off-gas when the temperature was greater than 900°C. The activation energy calculated using the Flynn-Wall-Ozawa method was 221.2 kJ/mol. D4 is the mechanism function for carbothermal reduction of titanium-bearing BF slag. Meanwhile, a nonisothermal reduction model is proposed based on the obtained kinetic parameters.

Evidence for Conservation of the Calcitonin Superfamily and Activity-regulating Mechanisms in the Basal Chordate Branchiostoma floridae: INSIGHTS INTO THE MOLECULAR AND FUNCTIONAL EVOLUTION IN CHORDATES.

PubMed

Sekiguchi, Toshio; Kuwasako, Kenji; Ogasawara, Michio; Takahashi, Hiroki; Matsubara, Shin; Osugi, Tomohiro; Muramatsu, Ikunobu; Sasayama, Yuichi; Suzuki, Nobuo; Satake, Honoo

2016-01-29

The calcitonin (CT)/CT gene-related peptide (CGRP) family is conserved in vertebrates. The activities of this peptide family are regulated by a combination of two receptors, namely the calcitonin receptor (CTR) and the CTR-like receptor (CLR), and three receptor activity-modifying proteins (RAMPs). Furthermore, RAMPs act as escort proteins by translocating CLR to the cell membrane. Recently, CT/CGRP family peptides have been identified or inferred in several invertebrates. However, the molecular characteristics and relevant functions of the CTR/CLR and RAMPs in invertebrates remain unclear. In this study, we identified three CT/CGRP family peptides (Bf-CTFPs), one CTR/CLR-like receptor (Bf-CTFP-R), and three RAMP-like proteins (Bf-RAMP-LPs) in the basal chordate amphioxus (Branchiostoma floridae). The Bf-CTFPs were shown to possess an N-terminal circular region typical of the CT/CGRP family and a C-terminal Pro-NH2. The Bf-CTFP genes were expressed in the central nervous system and in endocrine cells of the midgut, indicating that Bf-CTFPs serve as brain and/or gut peptides. Cell surface expression of the Bf-CTFP-R was enhanced by co-expression with each Bf-RAMP-LP. Furthermore, Bf-CTFPs activated Bf-CTFP-R·Bf-RAMP-LP complexes, resulting in cAMP accumulation. These results confirmed that Bf-RAMP-LPs, like vertebrate RAMPs, are prerequisites for the function and translocation of the Bf-CTFP-R. The relative potencies of the three peptides at each receptor were similar. Bf-CTFP2 was a potent ligand at all receptors in cAMP assays. Bf-RAMP-LP effects on ligand potency order were distinct to vertebrate CGRP/adrenomedullin/amylin receptors. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first molecular and functional characterization of an authentic invertebrate CT/CGRP family receptor and RAMPs. © 2016 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Trends and determinants for early initiation of and exclusive breastfeeding under six months in Vietnam: results from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys, 2000-2011.

PubMed

Bui, Quyen Thi-Tu; Lee, Hwa-Young; Le, Anh Thi-Kim; Van Dung, Do; Vu, Lan Thi-Hoang

2016-01-01

There is strong evidence that breastfeeding (BF) significantly benefits mothers and infants in various ways. Yet the proportion of breastfed babies in Vietnam is low and continues to decline. This study fills an important evidence gap in BF practices in Vietnam. This paper examines the trend of early initiation of BF and exclusive BF from 2000 to 2011 in Vietnam and explores the determinants at individual and contextual levels. Data from three waves of the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey were combined to estimate crude and adjusted trends over time for two outcomes - early initiation of BF and exclusive BF. Three-level logistic regressions were fitted to examine the impacts of both individual and contextual characteristics on early initiation of BF and exclusive BF in the 2011 data. Both types of BF showed a decreasing trend over time after controlling for individual-level characteristics but this trend was more evident for early initiation of BF. Apart from child's age, individual-level characteristics were not significant predictors of the BF outcomes, but provincial characteristics had a strong association. When controlling for individual-level characteristics, mothers living in provinces with a higher percentage of mothers with more than three children were more likely to have initiated early BF (odds ratio [OR]: 1.06; confidence interval [CI]: 1.02-1.11) but less likely to exclusively breastfeed their babies (OR: 0.94; CI: 0.88-1.01). Mothers living in areas with a higher poverty rate were more likely to breastfeed exclusively (OR: 1.07; CI: 1.02-1.13), and those who delivered by Caesarean section were less likely to initiate early BF. Our results suggest that environmental factors are becoming more important for determining BF practices in Vietnam. Intervention programs should therefore not only consider individual factors, but should also consider the potential impact of contextual factors on BF practices.

Quantitative Retinal and Choroidal Blood Flow During Light, Dark Adaptation and Flicker Light Stimulation in Rats Using Fluorescent Microspheres

PubMed Central

Shih, Yen-Yu I.; Wang, Lin; De La Garza, Bryan H.; Li, Guang; Cull, Grant; Kiel, Jeffery W.; Duong, Timothy Q.

2013-01-01

Purpose The present study aimed to quantify retinal and choroidal blood flow (BF) during light, dark adaptation and flicker light stimulation using the microsphere technique. Materials and Methods Adult male Sprague–Dawley rats were anesthetized with isoflurane. Eyes were dark (Group I, n = 8), light (Group II, n = 8) adapted or stimulated with 10Hz flicker light (Group III, n = 10). Retinal and choroidal BF were measured by a previously established method, using a mixture of 8 μm yellow-green and 10 μm red fluorescent microspheres. The microspheres were counted ex vivo in the dissected retina and choroid and in the reference arterial blood under a fluorescent microscope. Results The choroidal BF was 64.8 ± 29 μl/min (mean ± SD) during dark adaptation, not significantly different from that during light adaptation (66.0 ± 17.8 μl/min). The retinal BF was 13.5 ± 3.2 μl/min during 10 Hz flickering light stimulation, significantly higher than that during dark adaptation in the control fellow eyes (9.9 ± 2.9 μl/min). The choroidal BF values were not statistically different between flicker stimulation and dark adaptation. Retinal BF was 11.6 ± 2.9 μl/min during light adaptation. Dark adaptation did not increase retinal BF (Group I, 8.2 ± 2.4 μl/min; Group II, 9.9 ± 2.9 μl/min). Conclusions These findings argue against a dark-induced or flicker-induced functional hyperemia in the choroid as a result of the demands of the outer retina. Retinal BF was not higher during dark adaptation. Our data support the conclusion that the inner retina has a higher energy demand in flicker conditions relative to dark. PMID:23317112

Quantitative retinal and choroidal blood flow during light, dark adaptation and flicker light stimulation in rats using fluorescent microspheres.

PubMed

Shih, Yen-Yu I; Wang, Lin; De La Garza, Bryan H; Li, Guang; Cull, Grant; Kiel, Jeffery W; Duong, Timothy Q

2013-02-01

The present study aimed to quantify retinal and choroidal blood flow (BF) during light, dark adaptation and flicker light stimulation using the microsphere technique. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were anesthetized with isoflurane. Eyes were dark (Group I, n = 8), light (Group II, n = 8) adapted or stimulated with 10 Hz flicker light (Group III, n = 10). Retinal and choroidal BF were measured by a previously established method, using a mixture of 8 µm yellow-green and 10 µm red fluorescent microspheres. The microspheres were counted ex vivo in the dissected retina and choroid and in the reference arterial blood under a fluorescent microscope. The choroidal BF was 64.8 ± 29 µl/min (mean ± SD) during dark adaptation, not significantly different from that during light adaptation (66.0 ± 17.8 µl/min). The retinal BF was 13.5 ± 3.2 µl/min during 10 Hz flickering light stimulation, significantly higher than that during dark adaptation in the control fellow eyes (9.9 ± 2.9 µl/min). The choroidal BF values were not statistically different between flicker stimulation and dark adaptation. Retinal BF was 11.6 ± 2.9 µl/min during light adaptation. Dark adaptation did not increase retinal BF (Group I, 8.2 ± 2.4 µl/min; Group II, 9.9 ± 2.9 µl/min). These findings argue against a dark-induced or flicker-induced functional hyperemia in the choroid as a result of the demands of the outer retina. Retinal BF was not higher during dark adaptation. Our data support the conclusion that the inner retina has a higher energy demand in flicker conditions relative to dark.

Breast-feeding and the family planning sector's initiative in Indonesia.

PubMed

Suyono, H; Thapa, S

1990-03-01

Breastfeeding (BF) averts an average of 28% of the total potential fertility (fecundity) per woman of reproductive age in Indonesia. Contraception adds another 35% and age at marriage and other factors inhibit 15% more of total fecundity. Only around 22% of the total fecundity is realized in actual births. This is a total fertility rate of around 3.4 per woman in 1987. BF protects infants from illness and weight loss. Bottle fed infants are supposed to be 5 to 8 times more likely to have respiratory diseases than breast fed infants. Malnutrition has been found to be higher among bottle fed babies. Improved preparation of infant formulas and management may be some of the reasons for this. Breast milk is also very economical. Most rural Indonesian women breastfeed for a long time; however, in urban areas this is generally shortened. During the 1980s, there seems to have been a revival of BF in Jakarta. This has occurred among mothers of lower socioeconomic status, but not higher socioeconomic status. More promotion efforts should be aimed at high socioeconomic status mothers. Support for "rooming-in" (where mothers can breast feed their babies on demand) is strong, but many misconceptions exist among administrators and health care providers. Many who wish to breastfeed lack information. Others do not seek advice. Most women giving birth at hospitals do not know about rooming-in. The Indonesian government is promoting BF by addressing it in development plans. Nongovernmental agencies are also interested. One of these is BK-PP-ASI. It has been set up as the national coordinating body for promoting BF. International agencies also support BF. In 1989, the National Family Planning Coordinating Board (BKKBN) developed an explicit policy to promote BF by integrating it into the national family planning program. The complementary relationship between BF and contraception will be focused on.

Infant milk feeding influences adult bone health: a prospective study from birth to 32 years.

PubMed

Pirilä, Satu; Taskinen, Mervi; Viljakainen, Heli; Kajosaari, Merja; Turanlahti, Maila; Saarinen-Pihkala, Ulla M; Mäkitie, Outi

2011-04-27

Peak bone mass, attained by early adulthood, is influenced by genetic and life-style factors. Early infant feeding and duration of breastfeeding in particular, associate with several health-related parameters in childhood. The aim of this study was to examine whether the effects of early infant feeding extend to peak bone mass and other bone health characteristics at adult age. A cohort of 158 adults (76 males) born in Helsinki, Finland, 1975, prospectively followed up from birth, underwent physical examination and bone densitometry to study bone area, bone mineral content (BMC), and bone mineral density (BMD) at 32 years of age. Life-style factors relevant for bone health were recorded. For data analysis the cohort was divided into three equal-size groups according to the total duration of breastfeeding (BF): Short (≤3 months), Intermediate and Prolonged (≥7 months) BF groups. In males short BF is associated with higher bone area, BMC, and BMD compared to longer BF. Males in the Short BF group had on average 4.7% higher whole body BMD than males in the Prolonged BF group. In multivariate analysis, after controlling for multiple confounding factors, the influence of BF duration on adult bone characteristics persisted in males. Differences between the three feeding groups were observed in lumbar spine bone area and BMC, and whole body BMD (MANCOVA; p = 0.025, p = 0.013, and p = 0.048, respectively), favoring the Short BF group. In women no differences were observed. In men, early infant milk feeding may have a significant impact on adult bone health. A potential explanation is that the calcium and phosphate contents were strikingly higher in formula milk and commercial cow milk/cow milk dilutions as opposed to human milk. Our novel finding merits further studies to determine means to ensure optimal bone mass development in infants with prolonged breastfeeding.

Nutritional status in sick children and adolescents is not accurately reflected by BMI-SDS.

PubMed

Fusch, Gerhard; Raja, Preeya; Dung, Nguyen Quang; Karaolis-Danckert, Nadina; Barr, Ronald; Fusch, Christoph

2013-01-01

Nutritional status provides helpful information of disease severity and treatment effectiveness. Body mass index standard deviation scores (BMI-SDS) provide an approximation of body composition and thus are frequently used to classify nutritional status of sick children and adolescents. However, the accuracy of estimating body composition in this population using BMI-SDS has not been assessed. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the accuracy of nutritional status classification in sick infants and adolescents using BMI-SDS, upon comparison to classification using percentage body fat (%BF) reference charts. BMI-SDS was calculated from anthropometric measurements and %BF was measured using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) for 393 sick children and adolescents (5 months-18 years). Subjects were classified by nutritional status (underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obese), using 2 methods: (1) BMI-SDS, based on age- and gender-specific percentiles, and (2) %BF reference charts (standard). Linear regression and a correlation analysis were conducted to compare agreement between both methods of nutritional status classification. %BF reference value comparisons were also made between 3 independent sources based on German, Canadian, and American study populations. Correlation between nutritional status classification by BMI-SDS and %BF agreed moderately (r (2) = 0.75, 0.76 in boys and girls, respectively). The misclassification of nutritional status in sick children and adolescents using BMI-SDS was 27% when using German %BF references. Similar rates observed when using Canadian and American %BF references (24% and 23%, respectively). Using BMI-SDS to determine nutritional status in a sick population is not considered an appropriate clinical tool for identifying individual underweight or overweight children or adolescents. However, BMI-SDS may be appropriate for longitudinal measurements or for screening purposes in large field studies. When accurate nutritional status classification of a sick patient is needed for clinical purposes, nutritional status will be assessed more accurately using methods that accurately measure %BF, such as DXA.

Diffusion and recrystallization of B implanted in crystalline and pre-amorphized Ge in the presence of F

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

Hsu, William, E-mail: william.hsu@utexas.edu; Kim, Taegon; Chou, Harry

2016-07-07

Although the diffusion control and dopant activation of Ge p-type junctions are straightforward when using B{sup +} implantation, the use of the heavier BF{sub 2}{sup +} ions or even BF{sup +} is still favored in terms of shallow junction formation and throughput—because implants can be done at higher energies, which can give higher beam currents and beam stability—and thus the understanding of the effect of F co-doping becomes important. In this work, we have investigated diffusion and end-of-range (EOR) defect formation for B{sup +}, BF{sup +}, and BF{sub 2}{sup +} implants in crystalline and pre-amorphized Ge, employing rapid thermal annealingmore » at 600 °C and 800 °C for 10 s. It is demonstrated that the diffusion of B is strongly influenced by the temperature, the presence of F, and the depth of amorphous/crystalline interface. The B and F diffusion profiles suggest the formation of B–F complexes and enhanced diffusion by interaction with point defects. In addition, the strong chemical effect of F is found only for B in Ge, while such an effect is vanishingly small for samples implanted with F alone, or co-implanted with P and F, as evidenced by the high residual F concentration in the B-doped samples after annealing. After 600 °C annealing for 10 s, interstitial-induced compressive strain was still observed in the EOR region for the sample implanted with BF{sup +}, as measured by X-ray diffraction. Further analysis by cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy showed that the {311} interstitial clusters are the majority type of EOR defects. The impact of these {311} defects on the electrical performance of Ge p{sup +}/n junctions formed by BF{sup +} implantation was evaluated.« less

Duration of breast-feeding and cardiovascular risk factors among Iranian children and adolescents: the CASPIAN III study.

PubMed

Izadi, Vajihe; Kelishadi, Roya; Qorbani, Mostafa; Esmaeilmotlagh, Mohammad; Taslimi, Mahnaz; Heshmat, Ramin; Ardalan, Gelayol; Azadbakht, Leila

2013-05-01

Studies examining the relationship between breast-feeding (BF) duration and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors have reached contradictory results. This study aims to investigate the relationship between BF duration and CVD risk factors in adolescents. This national population-based study was conducted among 5258 Iranian students, ages 10 to 18 y living in central cities of 27 provinces of Iran. Association was examined between duration of BF and adolescent blood pressure, overweight, obesity, and fasting blood glucose and lipid profiles. Analyses were adjusted for potential confounders. Low birth weight was less frequent in the longer than in the shorter BF duration categories (P < 0.0001). Number of children was lower in individuals with longer BF duration (P = 0.01). Individuals with longer BF duration used more homemade food than those with shorter BF duration (P < 0.0001). Means of total cholesterol and systolic blood pressure were lower in participants with the longest BF period compared with those with the shortest BF duration; this difference was marginally significant (P = 0.06). No significant association was found between BF duration and CVD risk factors in logistic regression after adjustment for potential confounders. Although the long-term benefits of BF on preventing CVDs are well documented, controversies exist as to the association of BF duration with such beneficial effects. In this study, there was no substantial evidence that longer BF duration was protective against CVD risk factors among adolescents. More prospective studies are recommended to clarify this association. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparison of Standing Posture Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis with DXA for Body Composition in a Large, Healthy Chinese Population.

PubMed

Chen, Kuen-Tsann; Chen, Yu-Yawn; Wang, Chia-Wei; Chuang, Chih-Lin; Chiang, Li-Ming; Lai, Chung-Liang; Lu, Hsueh-Kuan; Dwyer, Gregory B; Chao, Shu-Ping; Shih, Ming-Kuei; Hsieh, Kuen-Chang

2016-01-01

Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is a common method for assessing body composition in research and clinical trials. BIA is convenient but when compared with other reference methods, the results have been inconclusive. The level of obesity degree in subjects is considered to be an important factor affecting the accuracy of the measurements. A total of 711 participants were recruited in Taiwan and were sub-grouped by gender and levels of adiposity. Regression analysis and Bland-Altman analysis were used to evaluate the agreement of the measured body fat percentage (BF%) between BIA and DXA. The BF% measured by the DXA and BIA methods (Tanita BC-418) were expressed as BF%DXA and BF%BIA8, respectively. A one-way ANOVA was used to test the differences in BF% measurements by gender and levels of adiposity. The estimated BF%BIA8 and BF%DXA in the all subjects, male and female groups were all highly correlated (r = 0.934, 0.901, 0.916, all P< 0.001). The average estimated BF%BIA8 (22.54 ± 9.48%) was significantly lower than the average BF%DXA (26.26 ± 11.18%). The BF%BIA8 was overestimated in the male subgroup (BF%DXA< 15%), compared to BF%DXA by 0.45%, respectively. In the other subgroups, the BF%BIA8 values were all underestimated. Standing BIA estimating body fat percentage in Chinese participants have a high correlation, but underestimated on normal and high obesity degree in both male and female subjects.

Comparison of Standing Posture Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis with DXA for Body Composition in a Large, Healthy Chinese Population

PubMed Central

Chen, Kuen-Tsann; Chen, Yu-Yawn; Wang, Chia-Wei; Chuang, Chih-Lin; Chiang, Li-Ming; Lai, Chung-Liang; Lu, Hsueh-Kuan; Dwyer, Gregory B.; Chao, Shu-Ping; Shih, Ming-Kuei; Hsieh, Kuen-Chang

2016-01-01

Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is a common method for assessing body composition in research and clinical trials. BIA is convenient but when compared with other reference methods, the results have been inconclusive. The level of obesity degree in subjects is considered to be an important factor affecting the accuracy of the measurements. A total of 711 participants were recruited in Taiwan and were sub-grouped by gender and levels of adiposity. Regression analysis and Bland-Altman analysis were used to evaluate the agreement of the measured body fat percentage (BF%) between BIA and DXA. The BF% measured by the DXA and BIA methods (Tanita BC-418) were expressed as BF%DXA and BF%BIA8, respectively. A one-way ANOVA was used to test the differences in BF% measurements by gender and levels of adiposity. The estimated BF%BIA8 and BF%DXA in the all subjects, male and female groups were all highly correlated (r = 0.934, 0.901, 0.916, all P< 0.001). The average estimated BF%BIA8 (22.54 ± 9.48%) was significantly lower than the average BF%DXA (26.26 ± 11.18%). The BF%BIA8 was overestimated in the male subgroup (BF%DXA< 15%), compared to BF%DXA by 0.45%, respectively. In the other subgroups, the BF%BIA8 values were all underestimated. Standing BIA estimating body fat percentage in Chinese participants have a high correlation, but underestimated on normal and high obesity degree in both male and female subjects. PMID:27467065

Relationship between body fat and BMI in a U.S. Hispanic population-based cohort study: Results from HCHS/SOL

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

To evaluate the percentage of body fat (%BF)-BMI relationship, identify %BF levels corresponding to adult BMI cut points, and examine %BF-BMI agreement in a diverse Hispanic/Latino population. %BF by bioelectrical impedance analysis was corrected against %BF by 18O dilution in 434 participants of th...

Body mass index and body adiposity index in relation to percent body fat: a study in adult men of three endogamous groups of South Bengal.

PubMed

Datta Banik, Sudip; Das, Subal

2015-02-01

Body adiposity index (BAI), based on height and hip circumference data from Mexican-Americans and African-Americans established its relation to body fat (BF). The aim of our study was to compare body mass index (BMI) and BAI in relation to BF%. Participants were adult men of three endogamous social groups (Brahmin, Muslim and Namasudra) in a village of South 24 Parganas district in West Bengal, India. Height, weight and hip circumference of 952 individuals (370 Brahmins, 307 Muslims and 275 Namasudras) were recorded. The BMI-based nutritional status and bioelectrical impedance-based BF% were evaluated. Namasudras (33.8%) and Muslims (33.6%) had high frequency undernutrition compared to Brahmins (7.3%). High prevalence (46.22%) of excess weight (overweight+obesity) was recorded only among Brahmins. There was significant social group difference in rates of nutritional status (χ(2) = 93.10, p < 0.0001). The BF% had higher correlation with BMI than BAI. A cut-off value of BAI (22%) was determined by binomial logistic regression analysis (BLRA). The value had best estimated relation to BF% and also coincided with WHO standard mean BF (22%) for overweight adults at BMI (≥ 25 kg/m(2)). However, greater area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, higher correct prediction rate, and other results of BLRA for the cut-off value of BMI-based overweight (≥ 25 kg/m(2)) showed its better relation to BF% than that observed for BAI cut-off at 22%. The BMI was observed to be a better indicator of adiposity compared to BAI in relation with body fat (%). Copyright © 2014 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

A somatostatin analog improves tilt table tolerance by decreasing splanchnic vascular conductance

PubMed Central

Florian, J. P.; Curren, M. J.; Pawelczyk, J. A.

2012-01-01

Splanchnic hemodynamics and tilt table tolerance were assessed after an infusion of placebo or octreotide acetate, a somatostatin analog whose vascular effects are largely confined to the splanchnic circulation. We hypothesized that reductions in splanchnic blood flow (SpBF) and splanchnic vascular conductance (SpVC) would be related to improvements in tilt table tolerance. In randomized, double-blind, crossover trials, hemodynamic variables were collected in 14 women and 16 men during baseline, 70° head-up tilt (HUT), and recovery. A repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to compare changes from baseline with respect to sex and condition. HUT elicited an increase in heart rate and decreases in mean arterial pressure, cardiac index, stroke index, and systemic vascular conductance. Additionally, SpVC and non-SpVC were lower during HUT. Octreotide reduced SpBF and SpVC and increased systemic vascular conductance and non-SpVC. Changes in SpBF and SpVC between supine and HUT were smaller in women (P < 0.05). Tilt table tolerance was increased after administration of octreotide [median tilt time: 15.7 vs. 37.0 min (P < 0.05) and 21.8 vs. 45.0 min (P < 0.05) for women and men, respectively]. A significant relationship existed between change (Δ) in SpBF (placebo-octreotide) and Δtilt time in women (Δtilt time = 2.5–0.0083 ΔSpBF, P < 0.01), but not men (Δtilt time = 3.41–0.0008 ΔSpBF, P = 0.59). In conclusion, administration of octreotide acetate improved tilt table tolerance, which was associated with a decrease in SpVC. In women, but not men, the magnitude of reduction in SpBF was positively associated with improvements in tilt tolerance. PMID:22345429

B.F. Skinner and Carl R. Rogers on Behavior and Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Swaim, Eugene E.

1972-01-01

The purpose of this study is to analyze the relationship between the theories of B.F. Skinner and Carl R. Rogers. In sections 2 and 3, the author discusses the Skinnerian and Rogerian theories by selecting and explicating key elements and delineating the general, comprehensive, theoretical position of each. Sections 4 and 5 present each man's…

Inhibitory effect of 2‑mercaptoethane sulfonate on the formation of Escherichia coli biofilms in vitro.

PubMed

Chen, Sheng; He, Nianhai; Yu, Jialin; Li, Luquan; Sun, Fengjun; Hu, Ying; Deng, Rui; Zhong, Shiming; Shen, Leilei

2015-10-01

The biofilms (BF) formed by Escherichia coli (E. coli) is an important cause of chronic and recurrent infections due to its capacity to persist on medical surfaces and indwelling devices, demonstrating the importance of inhibiting the formation of E. coli BF and reducing BF infection. Although 2‑mercaptoethane sulfonate (MESNA) exhibits a marked mucolytic effect clinically, the effect of MESNA on the inhibition of E. coli BF formation remains to be elucidated. The present study investigated whether MESNA inhibits the formation of E. coli BF in vitro. The minimum inhibitory concentration of MESNA on E. coli was determined to be 10 mg/ml. Subsequently, the effect of MESNA on BF early adhesion, extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) and extracellular protein were detected. The effect of a subinhibitory concentration of MESNA on BF formation was evaluated, and the inhibitory potency of MESNA against matured BF was assayed. The results revealed that MESNA inhibited early stage adhesion and formation of the E. coli BF, destroyed the mature BF membrane and reduced the EPS and extracellular proteins levels of the BF. In addition, the present study investigated the effects of MESNA on the expression of EPS‑ and adhesion protein‑associated genes using quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis, which demonstrated that MESNA effectively inhibited the expression of these genes. These results suggested that MESNA possesses anti‑BF formation capability on E. coli in vitro and may be used as a potential reagent for the clinical treatment of E. coli BF‑associated infections.

Combining retinal nerve fiber layer thickness with individual retinal blood vessel locations allows modeling of central vision loss in glaucoma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Hui; Wang, Mengyu; Baniasadi, Neda; Jin, Qingying; Elze, Tobias

2017-02-01

Purpose: To assess whether modeling of central vision loss (CVL) due to glaucoma by optical coherence tomography (OCT) retinal nerve fiber (RNF) layer thickness (RNFLT) can be improved by including the location of the major inferior temporal retinal artery (ITA), a known correlate of individual RNF geometry. Methods: Pat- tern deviations of the two locations of the Humphrey 24-2 visual field (VF) known to be specifically vulnerable to glaucomatous CVL and OCT RNFLT on the corresponding circumpapillary sector around the optic nerve head within the radius of 1.73mm were retrospectively selected from 428 eyes of 428 patients of a large clinical glaucoma service. ITA was marked on the 1.73mm circle by a trained observer. Linear regression models were fitted with CVL as dependent variable and VF mean deviation (MD) plus either of (1) RNFLT, (2) ITA, and (3) their combination, respectively, as regressors. To assess CVL over all levels of glaucoma severity, the three models were compared to a null model containing only MD. A Baysian model comparison was performed with the Bayes Factor (BF) as measure of strength of evidence (BF<3: no evidence, 3-20: positive evidence, >20: strong evidence over null model). Results: Neither RNFLT (BF=0.9) nor ITA (BF=1.4) alone provided positive evidence over the null model, but their combination resulted in a model with strong evidence (BF=21.4). Conclusion: While the established circumpapillary RNFLT sector, based on population statistics, could not satisfactorily model CVL, the inclusion of a retinal parameter related to individual eye anatomy yielded a strong structure-function model.

Substantia Nigra Volume Loss Before Basal Forebrain Degeneration in Early Parkinson Disease

PubMed Central

Ziegler, David A.; Wonderlick, Julien S.; Ashourian, Paymon; Hansen, Leslie A.; Young, Jeremy C.; Murphy, Alex J.; Koppuzha, Cecily K.; Growdon, John H.; Corkin, Suzanne

2017-01-01

Objective To test the hypothesis that degeneration of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) precedes that of the cholinergic basal forebrain (BF) in Parkinson disease (PD) using new multispectral structural magnetic resonance (MR) imaging tools to measure the volumes of the SNc and BF. Design Matched case-control study. Setting The Athinoula A. Martinos Imaging Center at the McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and the Massachusetts General Hospital/MIT Morris Udall Center of Excellence in Parkinson Disease Research. Patients Participants included 29 patients with PD (Hoehn and Yahr [H&Y] stages 1–3) and 27 matched healthy control subjects. Main Outcome Measures We acquired multiecho T1-weighted, multiecho proton density, T2-weighted, and T2-weighted fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) sequences from each participant. For the SNc, we created a weighted mean of the multiple echoes, yielding a single volume with a high ratio of contrast to noise. We visualized the BF using T2-weighted FLAIR images. For each participant, we manually labeled the 2 structures and calculated their volumes. Results Relative to the controls, 13 patients with H&Y stage 1 PD had significantly decreased SNc volumes. Sixteen patients with H&Y stage 2 or 3 PD showed little additional volume loss. In contrast, the BF volume loss occurred later in the disease, with a significant decrease apparent in patients having H&Y stage 2 or 3 PD compared with the controls and the patients having H&Y stage 1 PD. The latter group did not differ significantly from the controls. Conclusion Our results support the proposed neuropathological trajectory in PD and establish novel multispectral methods as MR imaging biomarkers for tracking the degeneration of the SNc and BF. PMID:23183921

Sub-micron particle number size distribution characteristics at two urban locations in Leicester

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hama, Sarkawt M. L.; Cordell, Rebecca L.; Kos, Gerard P. A.; Weijers, E. P.; Monks, Paul S.

2017-09-01

The particle number size distribution (PNSD) of atmospheric particles not only provides information about sources and atmospheric processing of particles, but also plays an important role in determining regional lung dose. Owing to the importance of PNSD in understanding particulate pollution two short-term campaigns (March-June 2014) measurements of sub-micron PNSD were conducted at two urban background locations in Leicester, UK. At the first site, Leicester Automatic Urban Rural Network (AURN), the mean number concentrations of nucleation, Aitken, accumulation modes, the total particles, equivalent black carbon (eBC) mass concentrations were 2002, 3258, 1576, 6837 # cm-3, 1.7 μg m-3, respectively, and at the second site, Brookfield (BF), were 1455, 2407, 874, 4737 # cm-3, 0.77 μg m-3, respectively. The total particle number was dominated by the nucleation and Aitken modes, with both consisting of 77%, and 81% of total number concentrations at AURN and BF sites, respectively. This behaviour could be attributed to primary emissions (traffic) of ultrafine particles and the temporal evolution of mixing layer. The size distribution at the AURN site shows bimodal distribution at 22 nm with a minor peak at 70 nm. The size distribution at BF site, however, exhibits unimodal distribution at 35 nm. This study has for the first time investigated the effect of Easter holiday on PNSD in UK. The temporal variation of PNSD demonstrated a good degree of correlation with traffic-related pollutants (NOX, and eBC at both sites). The meteorological conditions, also had an impact on the PNSD and eBC at both sites. During the measurement period, the frequency of NPF events was calculated to be 13.3%, and 22.2% at AURN and BF sites, respectively. The average value of formation and growth rates of nucleation mode particles were 1.3, and 1.17 cm-3 s-1 and 7.42, and 5.3 nm h-1 at AURN, and BF sites, respectively. It can suggested that aerosol particles in Leicester originate mainly from traffic and domestic heating emissions.

An infant formula containing dairy lipids increased red blood cell membrane Omega 3 fatty acids in 4 month-old healthy newborns: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Gianni, Maria Lorella; Roggero, Paola; Baudry, Charlotte; Fressange-Mazda, Catherine; Galli, Claudio; Agostoni, Carlo; le Ruyet, Pascale; Mosca, Fabio

2018-02-13

When breastfeeding is not possible, infants are fed formulas (IF) in which lipids are usually of plant origin. However, the use of dairy fat in combination with plant oils enables a lipid profile closer to breast milk in terms of fatty acid (FA) composition, triglyceride structure, polar lipids and cholesterol contents. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of an IF containing a mix of dairy fat and plant oils on Omega-3 FA content in red blood cells (RBC). This study was a monocentric, double-blind, controlled, randomized trial. Healthy term infants were fed formulas containing a mix of dairy fat and plant oils (D), plant oils (P) or plant oils supplemented with ARA and DHA (PDHA). Breastfed infants were enrolled as a reference group (BF). FA in RBC phosphatidylethanolamine was evaluated after 4 months and FA in whole blood were evaluated at enrollment and after 4 months by gas chromatography. Differences between groups were assessed using an analysis of covariance with sex and gestational age as covariates. Seventy IF-fed and nineteen BF infants completed the protocol. At 4 months, RBC total Omega-3 FA levels in infants fed formula D were significantly higher than in group P and similar to those in groups PDHA and BF. RBC DHA levels in group D were also higher than in group P but lower than in groups PDHA and BF. RBC n-3 DPA levels in group D were higher than in groups P, PDHA and BF. A decrease in proportions of Omega-3 FA in whole blood was observed in all groups. A formula containing a mix of dairy lipids and plant oils increased the endogenous conversion of Omega-3 long-chain FA from precursor, leading to higher total Omega-3, DPA and DHA status in RBC than a plant oil-based formula. Modifying lipid quality in IF by adding dairy lipids should be considered as an interesting method to improve Omega-3 FA status. Identifier NCT01611649 , retrospectively registered on May 25, 2012.

Assessing the potential of four cathelicidins for the management of mouse candidiasis and Candida albicans biofilms.

PubMed

Yu, Haining; Liu, Xuelian; Wang, Chen; Qiao, Xue; Wu, Sijin; Wang, Hui; Feng, Lan; Wang, Yipeng

2016-02-01

As the most common fungal pathogen of humans, severe drug resistance has emerged in the clinically isolated Candida albicans, which lead to the urgency to develop novel antifungal agents. Here, four our previously characterized cathelicidins (cathelicidin-BF, Pc-CATH1, Cc-CATH2, Cc-CATH3) were selected and their antifungal activities against C. albicans were evaluated in vitro and in vivo using amphotericin B and LL-37 as control. Results showed that all four cathelicidins could eradicate standard and clinically isolated C. albicans strains with most MIC values ranging from 1 to 16 μg/ml, in less than 0.5 h revealed by time-kill kinetic assay. Four peptides only exhibited slight hemolytic activity with most HC50 > 200 μg/ml, and retained potent anti-C. albicans activity at salt concentrations below and beyond physiological level. In animal experiment, 50 mg/kg administration of the four cathelicidins could significantly reduce the fungal counts in a murine oral candidiasis model induced by clinically isolated C. albicans. The antibiofilm activity of cathelicidin-BF, the most potent among the five peptides was evaluated, and result showed that cathelicidin-BF strongly inhibited C. albicans biofilm formation at 20 μg/ml. Furthermore, cathelicidin-BF also exhibited potent anti-C. albicans activity in established biofilms as measured by metabolic and fluorescent viability assays. Structure-function analyses suggest that they mainly adopt an α-helical conformations, which enable them to act as a membrane-active molecule. Altogether, the four cathelicidins display great potential for antifungal agent development against candidiasis. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. and Société Française de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire (SFBBM). All rights reserved.

Chemical Storage of Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bauschlicher, Charles W., Jr.; Ricca, Alessandra; Merkle, Ralph; Arnold, James O. (Technical Monitor)

1996-01-01

We investigate the possibility of storing data using H and F on a polymer to signify 0 and 1 bits. We show that the difference between the B-F and B-H interaction energies for either C5H5B or C3H3N2B is only slightly larger than the variation in B-F interaction energy with type of neighboring atoms. Pyridine (C5H5N) and (CH3)3P=O have a much larger difference in the H and F interaction energies. (CH3)3P=O may be better suited as a surface probe, because the interaction with neighboring data sites should be smaller.

X-Ray Absorption Spectroscopy of Electrochemically Generated Species

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-01-27

constructed from gold minigrid, colloidal graphite, and reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC). The use of gold minigrid electrodes has been demonstrated for...jBF n (bipy= 2,2’-ipyridine, dmp= 2,9-dimethvl- 1,10-phenanthroline) in solution at reticulated vitreous carbon electrodes, and incorporated in...Fe(bipy)3(C104)2, Ru(bipy)3Cl2, and Cu(drp)2BF4 (bipy= 2,2’-bipyridine, dmp= 2, 9-dimethyl-l,10-phenanthroline) in solution at reticulated vitreous

Effect of the percentage of body fat on surgical, clinical and pathological outcomes in women with endometrial cancer.

PubMed

Kerimoglu, Ozlem Secilmis; Pekin, Aybike; Yilmaz, Setenay Arzu; Yavas, Guler; Beyhekim, Fatma; Demirtaş, Ayşe Ayda; Dogan, Nasuh Utku; İlhan, Tolgay Tuyan; Celik, Cetin

2015-03-01

This study used the measure of percentage of body fat (%BF) to define obesity and evaluated the effect of percentage of %BF on clinical, surgical and pathological features in women with endometrial cancer. Between 2011 and 2013, bioelectrical impedance analysis and body size measurements of 94 patients whose endometrial biopsy revealed endometrial cancer were obtained. Patients were divided into two groups according to body mass index (BMI) (normal, < 30 kg/m(2); elevated, ≥ 30 kg/m(2)), and also classified by %BF (normal, < 32%; elevated, ≥ 32%). The patients' mean age was 55.0 ± 10.9 years. Mean %BF and BMI were 40.8% ± 9.8% and 32.9 ± 7.5, respectively. Eighty-three (88%) patients were obese according to %BF; 54 (57%) were obese according to BMI. Patients with elevated %BF were more likely to have less than 50% myometrial invasion (P = 0.004). Significantly more para-aortic lymph nodes were retrieved in patients with normal %BF or BMI (P < 0.001, P < 0.001). Patients with elevated %BF had longer operating times (P = 0.043) and were more likely to have stage I disease than patients with normal %BF (P < 0.001). Endometrial cancer patients with an elevated %BF are more likely to have stage I disease and less than 50% myometrial invasion than patients with normal %BF. Defining obesity by BF may provide better estimation of obesity prevalence in patients with endometrial cancer and further understanding the relationship between BF with endometrial cancer may give more information about the effects of obesity on endometrial cancer. © 2014 The Authors. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research © 2014 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Breathing frequency-independent effect of Tai Chi Chuan on autonomic modulation.

PubMed

Lu, Wan-An; Kuo, Cheng-Deng

2014-04-01

This study investigates the breathing frequency (BF)-independent effect of Tai Chi Chuan (TCC) on autonomic nervous modulation in TCC practitioners. Twenty-five TCC practitioners and 25 sedentary normal controls were recruited. The stationary heart rate variability (HRV) measures of TCC practitioners and controls were compared. The same HRV measures in TCC practitioners and among the controls, TCC practitioners before TCC and TCC practitioners 30 min after TCC were compared. In TCC practitioners, the BF, normalized high-frequency power (nHFP), and normalized very low-frequency power were significantly increased, while the normalized low-frequency power (nLFP) was significantly decreased 30 min after TCC. The BF correlated significantly and negatively with heart rate (HR), nHFP and nLFP, and correlated significantly and positively with mean RR interval (MnRR) before TCC in TCC practitioners. A slower BF is associated with a higher HR, a greater vagal modulation, and a greater combined sympatho-vagal modulation before TCC. To remove the effect of BF on HRV measures, new indices such as HR*BF, nHFP*BF, nLFP*BF, and MnRR/BF were introduced for comparison among the controls, TCC practitioners before TCC, and TCC practitioners 30 min after TCC. Thirty minutes after TCC, the MnRR/BF of TCC practitioner was smaller whereas HR*BF and nHFP*BF were greater than those before TCC. The BF-independent effects of TCC on the autonomic nervous modulation of TCC practitioners are an increase in vagal modulation and HR, and a decrease in mean RR interval. The mechanism underlying the parallel increase in HR and vagal modulation in TCC practitioners is not understood yet at present.

Measurement of Absolute Myocardial Blood Flow in Humans Using Dynamic Cardiac SPECT and 99mTc-tetrofosmin: Method and Validation

PubMed Central

Shrestha, Uttam; Sciammarella, Maria; Alhassen, Fares; Yeghiazarians, Yerem; Ellin, Justin; Verdin, Emily; Boyle, Andrew; Seo, Youngho; Botvinick, Elias H.; Gullberg, Grant T.

2015-01-01

Background The objective of this study was to measure myocardial blood flow (MBF) in humans using 99mTc-tetrofosmin and dynamic single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Methods Dynamic SPECT using 99mTc-tetrofosmin and dynamic positron emission tomography (PET) was performed on a group of 16 patients. The SPECT data were reconstructed using a 4D-spatiotemporal iterative reconstruction method. The data corresponding to 9 patients were used to determine the flow-extraction curve for 99mTc-tefrofosmin while data from the remaining 7 patients were used for method validation. The nonlinear tracer correction parameters A and B for 99mTc-tefrofosmin were estimated for the 9 patients by fitting the flow-extraction curve K1=F(1−Aexp(−BF)) for K1 values estimated with 99mTc-tefrofosmin using SPECT and MBF values estimated with 13N-NH3 using PET. These parameters were then used to calculate MBF and coronary flow reserve (CFR) in three coronary territories (LAD, RCA, and LCX) using SPECT for an independent cohort of 7 patients. The results were then compared with that estimated with 13N-NH3 PET. The flow dependent permeability surface-area product (PS) for 99mTc-tefrofosmin was also estimated. Results The estimated flow extraction parameters for 99mTc-tefrofosmin was found to be A=0.91±0.11, B=0.34±0.20 (R2 = 0.49). The range of MBF in LAD, RCA, and LCX was 0.44 ml/min/g to 3.81 ml/min/g. The MBF between PET and SPECT in the group of independent cohort of 7 patients showed statistically significant correlation, r = 0.71 (p < 0.001). However, the corresponding CFR correlation was moderate r = 0.39 yet statistically significant (p = 0.037). The PS for 99mTc-tefrofosmin was (0.091 ± 0.10) * MBF = (0.32 ± 0.16). Conclusions Dynamic cardiac SPECT using 99mTc-tetrofosmin and a clinical two-headed SPECT/CT scanner can be a useful tool for estimation of MBF. PMID:26715603

Pre- and Early-Postnatal Nutrition Modify Gene and Protein Expressions of Muscle Energy Metabolism Markers and Phospholipid Fatty Acid Composition in a Muscle Type Specific Manner in Sheep

PubMed Central

Hou, Lei; Kongsted, Anna H.; Ghoreishi, Seyed M.; Takhtsabzy, Tasnim K.; Friedrichsen, Martin; Hellgren, Lars I.; Kadarmideen, Haja N.; Vaag, Allan; Nielsen, Mette O.

2013-01-01

We previously reported that undernutrition in late fetal life reduced whole-body insulin sensitivity in adult sheep, irrespective of dietary exposure in early postnatal life. Skeletal muscle may play an important role in control of insulin action. We therefore studied a range of putative key muscle determinants of insulin signalling in two types of skeletal muscles (longissimus dorsi (LD) and biceps femoris (BF)) and in the cardiac muscle (ventriculus sinister cordis (VSC)) of sheep from the same experiment. Twin-bearing ewes were fed either 100% (NORM) or 50% (LOW) of their energy and protein requirements during the last trimester of gestation. From day-3 postpartum to 6-months of age (around puberty), twin offspring received a high-carbohydrate-high-fat (HCHF) or a moderate-conventional (CONV) diet, whereafter all males were slaughtered. Females were subsequently raised on a moderate diet and slaughtered at 2-years of age (young adults). The only long-term consequences of fetal undernutrition observed in adult offspring were lower expressions of the insulin responsive glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) protein and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, coactivator 1α (PGC1α) mRNA in BF, but increased PGC1α expression in VSC. Interestingly, the HCHF diet in early postnatal life was associated with somewhat paradoxically increased expressions in LD of a range of genes (but not proteins) related to glucose uptake, insulin signalling and fatty acid oxidation. Except for fatty acid oxidation genes, these changes persisted into adulthood. No persistent expression changes were observed in BF and VSC. The HCHF diet increased phospholipid ratios of n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in all muscles, even in adults fed identical diets for 1½ years. In conclusion, early postnatal, but not late gestation, nutrition had long-term consequences for a number of determinants of insulin action and metabolism in LD. Tissues other than muscle may account for reduced whole body insulin sensitivity in adult LOW sheep. PMID:23755234

Femoral Blood Flow and Cardiac Output During Blood Flow Restricted Leg Press Exercise

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Everett, M. E.; Hackney, K.; Ploutz-Snyder, L.

2011-01-01

Low load blood flow restricted resistance exercise (LBFR) causes muscle hypertrophy that may be stimulated by the local ischemic environment created by the cuff pressure. However, local blood flow (BF) during such exercise is not well understood. PURPOSE: To characterize femoral artery BF and cardiac output (CO) during leg press exercise (LP) performed at a high load (HL) and low load (LL) with different levels of cuff pressure. METHODS: Eleven subjects (men/women 4/7, age 31.4+/-12.8 y, weight 68.9+/-13.2 kg, mean+/-SD) performed 3 sets of supine left LP to fatigue with 90 s of rest in 4 conditions: HL (%1-RM/cuff pressure: 80%/0); LL (20%/0); LBFR(sub DBP) (20%/1.3 x diastolic blood pressure, BP); LBFR(sub SBP) (20%/1.3 x supine systolic BP). The cuff remained inflated throughout the LBFR exercise sessions. Artery diameter, velocity time integral (VTI), and stroke volume (SV) were measured using Doppler ultrasound at rest and immediately after each set of exercise. Heart rate (HR) was monitored using a 3-lead ECG. BF was calculated as VTI x vessel cross-sectional area. CO was calculated as HR x SV. The data obtained after each set of exercise were averaged and used for analyses. Multi-level modeling was used to determine the effect of exercise condition on dependent variables. Statistical significance was set a priori at p< 0.05. RESULTS: Artery diameter did not change from baseline. BF increased (p<0.05) after exercise in each condition except LBFR(sub SBP) in the order of HL (12.73+/-1.42 cm3,mean+/-SE) > LL (9.92+/-0.82 cm3) > LBFR(sub dBP)(6.47+/-0.79 cm3) > LBFR(sub SBP) (3.51+/-0.59 cm3). Blunted exercise induced increases occurred in HR, SV, and CO after LBFR compared to HL and LL. HR increased 45% after HL and LL and 28% after LBFR (p<0.05), but SV increased (p<0.05) only after HL. Consequently, the increase (p<0.05) in CO was greater in HL and LL (approximately 3 L/min) than in LBFR (approximately 1 L/min). CONCLUSION: BF during LBFR(sub SBP) was 1/3 of that observed in LL, which supports the hypothesis that local ischemia stimulates the LBFR hypertrophic response. As the cuff did not compress the artery, the ischemia may have occurred because of the blunted rise in CO or because arterial BP cannot overcome the cuff pressure. As LBFR(sub DBP) effectively reduced BF and CO with cuff pressures less than systolic BP, future studies should investigate the hypertrophic potential of LBFR at even lower cuff pressures.

Diffuse optical characterization of an exercising patient group with peripheral artery disease

PubMed Central

Putt, Mary; Chandra, Malavika; Yu, Guoqiang; Xing, Xiaoman; Han, Sung Wan; Lech, Gwen; Shang, Yu; Durduran, Turgut; Zhou, Chao; Yodh, Arjun G.; Mohler, Emile R.

2013-01-01

Abstract. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a common condition with high morbidity. While measurement of tissue oxygen saturation (StO2) has been demonstrated, this is the first study to assess both StO2 and relative blood flow (rBF) in the extremities of PAD patients. Diffuse optics is employed to measure hemodynamic response to treadmill and pedal exercises in 31 healthy controls and 26 patients. For StO2, mild and moderate/severe PAD groups show pronounced differences compared with controls. Pre-exercise mean StO2 is lower in PAD groups by 9.3% to 10.6% compared with means of 63.5% to 66.2% in controls. For pedal, relative rate of return of StO2 to baseline is more rapid in controls (p<0.05). Patterns of rBF also differ among groups. After both exercises, rBF tend to occur at depressed levels among severe PAD patients compared with healthy (p<0.05); post-treadmill, rBF tend to occur at elevated levels among healthy compared with severe PAD patients (p<0.05). Additionally, relative rate of return to baseline StO2 is more rapid among subjects with reduced levels of depression in rBF (p=0.041), even after adjustment for ankle brachial index. This suggests a physiologic connection between rBF and oxygenation that can be measured using diffuse optics, and potentially employed as an evaluative tool in further studies. PMID:23708193

Comparison of choroidal and optic nerve head blood flow regulation during changes in ocular perfusion pressure.

PubMed

Schmidl, Doreen; Boltz, Agnes; Kaya, Semira; Werkmeister, Rene; Dragostinoff, Nikolaus; Lasta, Michael; Polska, Elzbieta; Garhöfer, Gerhard; Schmetterer, Leopold

2012-07-01

We compared the response of choroidal and optic nerve head blood flow (ChBF, ONHBF) in response to an increase in ocular perfusion pressure (OPP) during isometric exercise and during a decrease in OPP during an artificial increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). We included 96 healthy subjects in our study. In 48 subjects OPP was increased by 6 minutes of squatting, and either ONHBF (n = 24) or ChBF (n = 24) was measured continuously. In 48 other healthy subjects either ONHBF (n = 24) or ChBF (n = 24) was measured continuously during a period of artificial increase in IOP using a suction cup. All blood flow measurements were done using laser Doppler flowmetry. During all experiments the response in blood flow was less pronounced than the response in OPP, indicating for flow regulation. During isometric exercise ChBF regulated better than ONHBF (P = 0.023). During artificial IOP increase ONHBF regulated better than ChBF (P = 0.001). Inter-individual variability in blood flow responses was high. During squatting ONHBF decreased considerably below baseline ONHBF when OPP fluctuated in 3 subjects, although OPP still was much higher than at baseline. This phenomenon was not observed in the choroid. Our data indicate that regulation of ChBF and ONHBF during changes in OPP is different and complex. In some subjects performing squatting, considerable ONHBF reductions were observed during OPP fluctuations, although OPP still was high. Whether this predisposes to ocular disease remains unclear.

Randomized comparison of ultra-brief bifrontal and unilateral electroconvulsive therapy for major depression: cognitive side-effects.

PubMed

Sienaert, P; Vansteelandt, K; Demyttenaere, K; Peuskens, J

2010-04-01

The cognitive side-effects of bifrontal (BF) and right unilateral (UL) ultra-brief pulse (0.3 ms) electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) were compared, in the treatment of patients with a depressive episode. Neuropsychological functioning in patients with a medication refractory depressive episode, that were treated with a course of BF ultra-brief ECT at 1.5 times seizure threshold (ST) or UL ultra-brief ECT at 6 times ST, by random assignment, was assessed before treatment, and 1 and 6 weeks after the treatment course, by a blinded rater. Of the 64 patients that were included, 32 (50%) received BF ECT, and 32 (50%) received UL ECT, by random assignment. Neuropsychological testing 1 and 6 weeks after treatment was performed by 30 (93.75%) and 19 (59.37%) patients, respectively, in the BF-group and 29 (90.62%) and 20 (62.50%), respectively, in the UL-group. There was no deterioration in any of the neuropsychological measures. Patients rated their memory as clearly improved after treatment. There were no significant differences between the patients given BF ECT and those given UL ECT. Ultrabrief pulse ECT, used either in combination with a UL electrode position and a stimulus of 6 times ST, or a BF electrode position with a stimulus of 1.5 times ST, are effective antidepressant techniques, that do not have a deleterious effect on cognitive function. Copyright 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Breastfeeding indicators trends in Brazil for three decades

PubMed Central

Boccolini, Cristiano Siqueira; Boccolini, Patricia de Moraes Mello; Monteiro, Fernanda Ramos; Venâncio, Sonia Isoyama; Giugliani, Elsa Regina Justo

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE Update breastfeeding indicators trend in Brazil for the last three decades, incorporating more up-to-date information from the National Health Survey. METHODS We used secondary data from national surveys with information on breastfeeding (1986, 1996, 2006, and 2013) to construct the time series of prevalence for the following indicators: exclusive breastfeeding in children under six months of age (EBF6m), breastfeeding in toddlers under 2 years of age (BF), continued breastfeeding at one year of age (BF1year), and continued breastfeeding at two years of age (BF2years). RESULTS The prevalence of EBF6m, BF, and BF1year increased until 2006 (rising from 4.7%, 37.4%, and 25.5% in 1986 to 37.1%, 56.3%, and 47.2% in 2006, respectively). For these three indicators, there was relative stabilization between 2006 and 2013 (36.6%, 52.1%, and 45.4%, respectively). The BF2years indicator had a distinct behavior – relatively stable prevalence, around 25% between 1986 and 2006, and a subsequent increase, reaching 31.8% in 2013. CONCLUSIONS The time series of breastfeeding indicators in Brazil shows an upward trend until 2006, stabilizing from that date onwards on three of the four indicators evaluated. This result, which can be considered as a warning sign, requires evaluation and revision of policies and programs to promote, protect and support breastfeeding, strengthening existing ones and proposing new strategies so that the prevalence of breastfeeding indicators returns to an upwards trend. PMID:29166437

The entropic boundary law in BF theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Livine, Etera R.; Terno, Daniel R.

2009-01-01

We compute the entropy of a closed bounded region of space for pure 3d Riemannian gravity formulated as a topological BF theory for the gauge group SU(2) and show its holographic behavior. More precisely, we consider a fixed graph embedded in space and study the flat connection spin network state without and with particle-like topological defects. We regularize and compute exactly the entanglement for a bipartite splitting of the graph and show it scales at leading order with the number of vertices on the boundary (or equivalently with the number of loops crossing the boundary). More generally these results apply to BF theory with any compact gauge group in any space-time dimension.

Biofiltration of paint solvent mixtures in two reactor types: overloading by hydrophobic components.

PubMed

Paca, Jan; Halecky, Martin; Misiaczek, Ondrej; Jones, Kim; Kozliak, Evguenii; Sobotka, Miroslav

2010-12-01

Steady-state performance characteristics of a trickle bed reactor (TBR) and a biofilter (BF) in loading experiments with increasing toluene/xylenes inlet concentrations while maintaining a constant loading rate of hydrophilic components (methyl ethyl and methyl isobutyl ketones, acetone, and n-butyl acetate) of 4 g m⁻³ h⁻¹ were evaluated and compared, along with the systems' dynamic responses. At the same combined substrate loading of 55 g m⁻³ h⁻¹ for both reactors, the TBR achieved more than 1.5 times higher overall removal efficiency (RE(W)) than the BF. Increasing the loading rate of aromatics resulted in a gradual decrease of their REs. The degradation rates of acetone and n-butyl acetate were also inhibited at higher loads of aromatics, thus revealing a competition in cell catabolism. A step-drop in loading of aromatics resulted in an immediate increase of RE(W) with variations in the TBR, while the new steady-state value in the BF took 6-7 h to achieve. The TBR consistently showed a greater performance than BF in removing toluene and xylenes. Increasing the loading rate of aromatics resulted in a gradual decrease of their REs. The degradation rates of acetone and n-butyl acetate were also lower at higher OL(AROM), revealing a competition in the cell catabolism. The results obtained are consistent with the proposed hypothesis of greater toxic effects under low water content, i.e., in the biofilter, caused by aromatic hydrocarbons in the presence of polar ketones and esters, which may improve the hydrocarbon partitioning into the aqueous phase.

LCMV beamforming for a novel wireless local positioning system: a stationarity analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tong, Hui; Zekavat, Seyed A.

2005-05-01

In this paper, we discuss the implementation of Linear Constrained Minimum Variance (LCMV) beamforming (BF) for a novel Wireless Local Position System (WLPS). WLPS main components are: (a) a dynamic base station (DBS), and (b) a transponder (TRX), both mounted on mobiles. WLPS might be considered as a node in a Mobile Adhoc NETwork (MANET). Each TRX is assigned an identification (ID) code. DBS transmits periodic short bursts of energy which contains an ID request (IDR) signal. The TRX transmits back its ID code (a signal with a limited duration) to the DBS as soon as it detects the IDR signal. Hence, the DBS receives non-continuous signals transmitted by TRX. In this work, we assume asynchronous Direct-Sequence Code Division Multiple Access (DS-CDMA) transmission from the TRX with antenna array/LCMV BF mounted at the DBS, and we discuss the implementation of the observed signal covariance matrix for LCMV BF. In LCMV BF, the observed covariance matrix should be estimated. Usually sample covariance matrix (SCM) is used to estimate this covariance matrix assuming a stationary model for the observed data which is the case in many communication systems. However, due to the non-stationary behavior of the received signal in WLPS systems, SCM does not lead to a high WLPS performance compared to even a conventional beamformer. A modified covariance matrix estimation method which utilizes the cyclostationarity property of WLPS system is introduced as a solution to this problem. It is shown that this method leads to a significant improvement in the WLPS performance.

Joint Services Electronics Program (Harvard University. Cambridge, Massachusetts)

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-09-30

34Band Structures of Semimagnetic Compounds," Acta Physica Polonica bf A73 (6), 933-941 (1988). (Partially supported by N00014-86-K-0760). c. Books...Journals K.L. Babcock and R.M. Westervelt, "Dynamics of Simple Electronic neural Net- works," Physica 28D, 305 (1987). C.M. Marcus and R.M. Westervelt

Effects of nitric oxide synthase inhibitor on cochlear blood flow.

PubMed

Hoshijima, Hideaki; Makimoto, Kazuo; Noi, Osamu; Ohinata, Yoshimitsu; Takenaka, Hiroshi

2002-09-01

We observed in rats the changes in cochlear blood flow (CoBF) and cutaneous blood flow of the abdominal wall (AbBF) after the administration of the NO synthase inhibitor, N-nitro-L-arginine-methyl ester (L-NAME). Ten minutes after i.v. infusion of L-NAME (0.2, 1, 5, 10 mg/kg), L-arginine, which is a substrate of NO, was infused (100 mg/kg) i.v. Employing a laser Doppler flowmeter, the changes in blood flow were recorded from the basal turn of the right cochlea or the abdominal wall and blood pressure (BP) was recorded from the left femoral artery simultaneously. Vascular conductance (VC) was calculated from CoBF/mean BP (cochlear VC) or AbBF/mean BP (abdominal VC). The findings in rats generally agreed with those in guinea pigs [Brechtelsbauer et al., Hear. Res. 77 (1994) 38-42]. Intravenous infusion of L-NAME produced a dose-dependent depression of cochlear VC at 0.2 mg/kg (-18.9), 1 mg/kg (-37.9%), 5 mg/kg (-45.8%) and 10 mg/kg (-48.3%). AbBF also decreased after infusion of L-NAME (5 mg/kg) but to a lesser degree (-41.1% in VC) with no significance compared to CoBF (5 mg/kg). Infusion of L-arginine partially reversed the CoBF decrease caused by L-NAME. The group of 0.2 mg/kg infusion of L-NAME showed the largest degree of recovery with L-arginine, while the 10 mg/kg group showed the smallest. The decrease in AbBF did not recover substantially with L-arginine, the degree being less than that of each group in the CoBF experiment. It was suggested that the NO/soluble guanylate cyclase/cGMP system is more active in the cochlear microcirculation. With the round window (RW) application of 1% L-NAME (2 microl), cochlear VC was decreased by 21.6%, which was closest to that of the 0.2 mg/kg group of L-NAME i.v. infusion. The cochlear VC depression after local application of L-NAME did not show any recovery (-0.3%) by RW application of 5% L-arginine (2 microl) 25 min after L-NAME application; a slight gradual increase was observed when a higher concentration (20%) of L-arginine was applied to the RW. We propose that i.v. infusions of L-NAME and L-arginine primarily affect the precapillary arteriole of the spiral modiolar artery which effectively regulates microcirculation as a resistance vessel, and that RW application affects the vessels of the lateral wall, not the spiral modiolar artery because of the difficulty of substance diffusion.

Trends and determinants for early initiation of and exclusive breastfeeding under six months in Vietnam: results from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys, 2000–2011

PubMed Central

Bui, Quyen Thi-Tu; Lee, Hwa-Young; Le, Anh Thi-Kim; Van Dung, Do; Vu, Lan Thi-Hoang

2016-01-01

Background There is strong evidence that breastfeeding (BF) significantly benefits mothers and infants in various ways. Yet the proportion of breastfed babies in Vietnam is low and continues to decline. This study fills an important evidence gap in BF practices in Vietnam. Objective This paper examines the trend of early initiation of BF and exclusive BF from 2000 to 2011 in Vietnam and explores the determinants at individual and contextual levels. Design Data from three waves of the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey were combined to estimate crude and adjusted trends over time for two outcomes – early initiation of BF and exclusive BF. Three-level logistic regressions were fitted to examine the impacts of both individual and contextual characteristics on early initiation of BF and exclusive BF in the 2011 data. Results Both types of BF showed a decreasing trend over time after controlling for individual-level characteristics but this trend was more evident for early initiation of BF. Apart from child's age, individual-level characteristics were not significant predictors of the BF outcomes, but provincial characteristics had a strong association. When controlling for individual-level characteristics, mothers living in provinces with a higher percentage of mothers with more than three children were more likely to have initiated early BF (odds ratio [OR]: 1.06; confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–1.11) but less likely to exclusively breastfeed their babies (OR: 0.94; CI: 0.88–1.01). Mothers living in areas with a higher poverty rate were more likely to breastfeed exclusively (OR: 1.07; CI: 1.02–1.13), and those who delivered by Caesarean section were less likely to initiate early BF. Conclusions Our results suggest that environmental factors are becoming more important for determining BF practices in Vietnam. Intervention programs should therefore not only consider individual factors, but should also consider the potential impact of contextual factors on BF practices. PMID:26950562

A multi-emitter fitting algorithm for potential live cell super-resolution imaging over a wide range of molecular densities.

PubMed

Takeshima, T; Takahashi, T; Yamashita, J; Okada, Y; Watanabe, S

2018-05-25

Multi-emitter fitting algorithms have been developed to improve the temporal resolution of single-molecule switching nanoscopy, but the molecular density range they can analyse is narrow and the computation required is intensive, significantly limiting their practical application. Here, we propose a computationally fast method, wedged template matching (WTM), an algorithm that uses a template matching technique to localise molecules at any overlapping molecular density from sparse to ultrahigh density with subdiffraction resolution. WTM achieves the localization of overlapping molecules at densities up to 600 molecules μm -2 with a high detection sensitivity and fast computational speed. WTM also shows localization precision comparable with that of DAOSTORM (an algorithm for high-density super-resolution microscopy), at densities up to 20 molecules μm -2 , and better than DAOSTORM at higher molecular densities. The application of WTM to a high-density biological sample image demonstrated that it resolved protein dynamics from live cell images with subdiffraction resolution and a temporal resolution of several hundred milliseconds or less through a significant reduction in the number of camera images required for a high-density reconstruction. WTM algorithm is a computationally fast, multi-emitter fitting algorithm that can analyse over a wide range of molecular densities. The algorithm is available through the website. https://doi.org/10.17632/bf3z6xpn5j.1. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Microscopy published by JohnWiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Royal Microscopical Society.

Salton Seismic Imaging Project Line 5—the San Andreas Fault and Northern Coachella Valley Structure, Riverside County, California

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rymer, M. J.; Fuis, G.; Catchings, R. D.; Goldman, M.; Tarnowski, J. M.; Hole, J. A.; Stock, J. M.; Matti, J. C.

2012-12-01

The Salton Seismic Imaging Project (SSIP) is a large-scale, active- and passive-source seismic project designed to image the San Andreas Fault (SAF) and the adjacent basins (Imperial and Coachella Valleys) in southern California. Here, we focus on SSIP Line 5, one of four 2-D NE-SW-oriented seismic profiles that were acquired across the Coachella Valley. The 38-km-long SSIP-Line-5 seismic profile extends from the Santa Rosa Ranges to the Little San Bernardino Mountains and crosses both strands of the SAF, the Mission Creek (MCF) and Banning (BF) strands, near Palm Desert. Data for Line 5 were generated from nine buried explosive sources (most spaced about 2 to 8 km apart) and were recorded on approximately 281 Texan seismographs (average spacing 138 m). First-arrival refractions were used to develop a refraction tomographic velocity image of the upper crust along the seismic profile. The seismic data were also stacked and migrated to develop low-fold reflection images of the crust. From the surface to about 8 km depth, P-wave velocities range from about 2 km/s to more than 7.5 km/s, with the lowest velocities within a well-defined (~2-km-deep, 15-km-wide) basin (< 4 km/s), and the highest velocities below the transition from the Coachella Valley to the Santa Rosa Ranges on the southwest and within the Little San Bernardino Mountains on the northeast. The MCF and BF strands of the SAF bound an approximately 2.5-km-wide horst-type structure on the northeastern side of the Coachella Valley, beneath which the upper crust is characterized by a pronounced low-velocity zone that extends to the bottom of the velocity image. Rocks within the low-velocity zone have significantly lower velocities than those to the northeast and the southwest at the same depths. Conversely, the velocities of rocks on both sides of the Coachella Valley are greater than 7 km/s at depths exceeding about 4 km. The relatively narrow zone of shallow high-velocity rocks between the surface traces of the MCF and BF strands is associated with a zone of uplifted strata. Along SSIP Line 5, we infer that the MCF and BF strands are steeply dipping and merge at about 2 km depth. We base our interpretation on a prominent basement low-velocity zone (fault zone) that is centered southwest of the MCF and BF strands and extends to at least 8 km depth.

Tailoring Oxygen Sensitivity with Halide Substitution in Difluoroboron Dibenzoylmethane Polylactide Materials

PubMed Central

DeRosa, Christopher A.; Kerr, Caroline; Fan, Ziyi; Kolpaczynska, Milena; Mathew, Alexander S.; Evans, Ruffin E.; Zhang, Guoqing; Fraser, Cassandra L.

2015-01-01

The dual-emissive properties of solid-state difluoroboron β-diketonate-poly(lactic acid) (BF2bdkPLA) materials have been utilized for biological oxygen sensing. In this work, BF2dbm(X)PLA materials were synthesized, where X = H, F, Cl, Br, and I. The effects of changing the halide substituent and PLA polymer chain length on the optical properties in dilute CH2Cl2 solutions and solid-state polymer films were studied. These luminescent materials show fluorescence, phosphorescence, and lifetime tunability on the basis of molecular weight, as well as lifetime modulation via the halide substituent. Short BF2dbm(Br)PLA (6.0 kDa) and both short and long BF2dbm(I)PLA polymers (6.0 or 20.3 kDa) have fluorescence and intense phosphorescence ideal for ratiometric oxygen sensing. The lighter halide-dye polymers with hydrogen, fluorine, and chlorine substitution have longer phosphorescence lifetimes and can be utilized as ultrasensitive oxygen sensors. Photostability was also analyzed for the polymer films. PMID:26480236

Risk Factors for Early and Late Transmission of HIV via Breast-Feeding among Infants Born to HIV-Infected Women in a Randomized Clinical Trial in Botswana

PubMed Central

Shapiro, Roger L.; Smeaton, Laura; Lockman, Shahin; Thior, lbou; Rossenkhan, Raabya; Wester, Carolyn; Stevens, Lisa; Moffat, Claire; Arimi, Peter; Ndase, Patrick; Asmelash, Aida; Leidner, Jean; Novitsky, Vladimir; Makhema, Joseph; Essex, Max

2009-01-01

Risk factors for mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) via breast-feeding were evaluated in a randomized trial. HIV-infected women and their infants received zidovudine as well as single-dose nevirapine or placebo. Infants were randomized to formula-feed (FF) or breast-feed (BF) in combination with zidovudine prophylaxis. Of 1116 at-risk infants, 6 (1.1%) in the FF group and 7 (1.3%) in the BF group were infected between birth and 1 month)P = .99). Maternal receipt of nevirapine did not predict early MTCT in the BF group (P = .45). Of 547 infants in the BF group at risk for late MTCT, 24 (4.4%) were infected. Maternal HIV-1 RNA levels in plasma (P<.001) and breast milk (P<.001) predicted late MTCT. These findings support the safety of 1 month of breast-feeding in combination with maternal and infant antiretroviral prophylaxis. PMID:19090775

Longitudinal Association Between Physical Activity and Body Fat During Adolescence: A Systematic Review.

PubMed

Ramires, Virgílio Viana; Dumith, Samuel Carvalho; Gonçalves, Helen

2015-09-01

Physical activity (PA) practice has been inversely associated to body fat (BF) and recommended as a way to reduce and prevent obesity. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review on the association of PA and BF in adolescence. The review includes 18 longitudinal studies found in the PubMed database, comprising papers published from January 1990 to July 2014. Studies assessing BF only through body mass index were excluded. Among the outcomes analyzed, waist circumference, skinfolds, and absolute and relative fat mass measurement were identified. Questionnaires were the more predominant way to evaluate PA. Most studies showed that PA promotes a protective effect against a higher BF gain. It was concluded that PA has a protective effect against BF with differences between the genders and according to the BF marker or measurement assessed; higher intensity PA leads to a greater effect against BF gain in both genders; and the maintenance or increase of PA level on BF observed through analysis of change in PA level yielded more consistent findings in the relation between PA and BF.

Volumetric Properties of the Ionic Liquid, 1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium Tetrafluoroborate, in Organic Solvents at T = 298.15K

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shekaari, Hemayat; Zafarani-Moattar, Mohammed Taghi

2008-04-01

Apparent molar volumes, V_φ , and compressibilities, kappa _φ , of 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([BMIm][BF4]) have been determined from precise density and speed-of-sound measurements in organic solvents, methanol (MeOH), acetonitrile (MeCN), tetrahydrofuran (THF), N, N-dimethylacetamide (DMA), and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) in the dilute region of the ionic liquid. Corresponding values at infinite dilution are estimated by the Redlich-Mayer and Pitzer equations. The results have been interpreted by the interaction of the [BMIm][BF4] in the organic solvents. Results show that the structure and dielectric constant of the organic solvents play an important role for the ion-solvent interactions in these mixtures. It was found that the strength of interaction between [BMIm][BF4] with the studied organic solvents has the order DMSO > DMA > MeOH > MeCN > THF.

Nutritional status and dietary pattern of male athletes in Ibadan, South Western Nigeria.

PubMed

Oladunni, M O; Sanusi, R A

2013-12-20

Several factors, including nutritional status and dietary pattern are paramount to optimum performance among athletes. Notwithstanding, risky behaviours that limit or impair athletic performance are widely prevalent among athletes; these include excessive weight reduction and inappropriate dietary practices. This study was conducted to provide information on the nutritional status and dietary pattern of athletes in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. This was a cross sectional descriptive study, involving 207 athletes aged 17 to 40 years in Ibadan. Nutritional status was assessed by anthropometric indices: Body Mass Index (BMI) and percentage body fat (%BF). BMI was calculated from weight and height measurements and %BF was estimated from the sum of skin-fold thickness at 4 sites (triceps, biceps, sub-scapular and supra-iliac skin-folds). Dietary pattern was assessed by food habits and food frequency questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were conducted to describe and examine relationships between variables. Mean (SD) for variables were: age; 26.09(±4.77) years, weight; 72.13(±0.45) kg, height; 1.74(±0.06)m, and BMI; 23.89(±3.34)kg/m2. Only 4(1.93%) of the participants were underweight, 39(18.84%) were overweight and 8(3.86%) obese. Mean (SD) of %BF among overweight athletes was 14.25(±3.12) and maximum %BF among overweight athletes was 21.2. A strong and positive correlation was observed between BMI and %BF and %BF increased with age among overweight athletes. About 72% of the athletes skipped meals, 77% drank water or sports drinks during sporting activities, about 11% spent less than #40.00 for each meal. About 49% ate before sports. Foods most frequently consumed by athletes in this study were meat, fish, roots/tubers, cereals, vegetables and fruits. Milk and legumes were less frequently consumed by these athletes. Most of these athletes had nutritional status adequate for their sport activity. With regards to food habits, most of these athletes performed poorly in frequency of meals intake but did considerably well in intake of fluids. With regards to dietary pattern, sources of daily intakes comprised of mostly of meats, fish, roots and tubers, cereals and vegetables.

Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) in African women living with HIV: role and effect of rigorous histopathological review by a panel of pathologists in the HARP study endpoint determination.

PubMed

Doutre, Sylviane; Omar, Tanvier; Goumbri-Lompo, Olga; Kelly, Helen; Clavero, Omar; Zan, Souleymane; Chikandiwa, Admire; Sawadogo, Bernard; Delany-Moretlwe, Sinead; Costes, Valérie; Mayaud, Philippe; Segondy, Michel

2018-01-01

To analyse the effect of the expert end-point committee (EPC) review on histological endpoint classification of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). A cohort of women living with HIV were recruited in Burkina Faso (BF) and South Africa (SA) and followed over 18 months. Four-quadrant cervical biopsies were obtained in women with abnormalities detected by at least one screening test. A central review by a panel of five pathologists was organised at baseline and at endline. At baseline the prevalence of high-grade CIN (CIN2+) was 5.1% (28/554) in BF and 23.3% (134/574) in SA by local diagnosis, and 5.8% (32/554) in BF and 22.5% (129/574) in SA by the EPC. At endline the prevalence of CIN2+ was 2.3% (11/483) in BF and 9.4% (47/501) in SA by local diagnosis, and 1.4% (7/483) in BF and 10.2% (51/501) in SA by EPC. The prevalence of borderline CIN1/2 cases was 2.8% (32/1128) and 0.8% (8/984) at baseline and endline. Overall agreement between local diagnosis and final diagnosis for distinguishing CIN2+ from ≤CIN1 was 91.2% (κ=0.82) and 88.9% (κ=0.71) for BF at baseline and endline, and 92.7% (κ=0.79) and 98.7% (κ=0.97) for SA at baseline and endline. Among the CIN1/2 cases, 12 (37.5%) were graded up to CIN2 and 20 (62.5%) were graded down to CIN1 at baseline, and 3 (37.5%) were graded up to CIN2 and 5 (62.5%) were graded down to CIN1 at endline. This study highlights the importance of a centralised rigorous re-reading with exchange of experiences among pathologists from different settings. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Probing Microenvironment in Ionic Liquids by Time-Resolved EPR of Photoexcited Triplets.

PubMed

Ivanov, M Yu; Veber, S L; Prikhod'ko, S A; Adonin, N Yu; Bagryanskaya, E G; Fedin, M V

2015-10-22

Unusual physicochemical properties of ionic liquids (ILs) open vistas for a variety of new applications. Herewith, we investigate the influence of microviscosity and nanostructuring of ILs on spin dynamics of the dissolved photoexcited molecules. We use two most common ILs [Bmim]PF6 and [Bmim]BF4 (with its close analogue [C10mim]BF4) as solvents and photoexcited Zn tetraphenylporphyrin (ZnTPP) as a probe. Time-resolved electron paramagnetic resonance (TR EPR) is employed to investigate spectra and kinetics of spin-polarized triplet ZnTPP in the temperature range 100-270 K. TR EPR data clearly indicate the presence of two microenvironments of ZnTPP in frozen ILs at 100-200 K, being manifested in different spectral shapes and different spin relaxation rates. For one of these microenvironments TR EPR data is quite similar to those obtained in common frozen organic solvents (toluene, glycerol, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone). However, the second one favors the remarkably slow relaxation of spin polarization, being much longer than in the case of common solvents. Additional experiments using continuous wave EPR and stable nitroxide as a probe confirmed the formation of heterogeneities upon freezing of ILs and complemented TR EPR results. Thus, TR EPR of photoexcited triplets can be effectively used for probing heterogeneities and nanostructuring in frozen ILs. In addition, the increase of polarization lifetime in frozen ILs is an interesting finding that might allow investigation of short-lived intermediates inaccessible otherwise.

BiFeO3-doped (K0.5,Na0.5)(Mn0.005,Nb0.995)O3 ferroelectric thin film capacitors for high energy density storage applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Won, Sung Sik; Kawahara, Masami; Kuhn, Lindsay; Venugopal, Vineeth; Kwak, Jiyeon; Kim, Ill Won; Kingon, Angus I.; Kim, Seung-Hyun

2017-04-01

Environmentally benign lead-free ferroelectric (K0.5,Na0.5)(Mn0.005,Nb0.995)O3 (KNMN) thin film capacitors with a small concentration of a BiFeO3 (BF) dopant were prepared by a cost effective chemical solution deposition method for high energy density storage device applications. 6 mol. % BF-doped KNMN thin films showed very slim hysteresis loops with high maximum and near-zero remanent polarization values due to a phase transition from the orthorhombic structure to the pseudo-cubic structure. Increasing the electric field up to 2 MV/cm, the total energy storage density (Jtotal), the effective recoverable energy density (Jeff), and the energy conversion efficiency (η) of lead-free KNMN-BF thin film capacitors were 31.0 J/cm3, 28.0 J/cm3, and 90.3%, respectively. In addition, these thin film capacitors exhibited a fast discharge time of a few μs and a high temperature stability up to 200 °C, proving their strong potential for high energy density storage and conversion applications.

Enantiomeric separation of type I and type II pyrethroid insecticides with different chiral stationary phases by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography.

PubMed

Zhang, Ping; Yu, Qian; He, Xiulong; Qian, Kun; Xiao, Wei; Xu, Zhifeng; Li, Tian; He, Lin

2018-04-01

The enantiomeric separation of type I (bifenthrin, BF) and type II (lambda-cyhalothrin, LCT) pyrethroid insecticides on Lux Cellulose-1, Lux Cellulose-3, and Chiralpak IC chiral columns was investigated by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Methanol/water or acetonitrile/water was used as mobile phase at a flow rate of 0.8 mL/min. The effects of chiral stationary phase, mobile phase composition, column temperature, and thermodynamic parameters on enantiomer separation were carefully studied. Bifenthrin got a partial separation on Lux Cellulose-1 column and baseline separation on Lux Cellulose-3 column, while LCT enantiomers could be completely separated on both Lux Cellulose-1 and Lux Cellulose-3 columns. Chiralpak IC provided no separation ability for both BF and LCT. Retention factor (k) and selectivity factor (α) decreased with the column temperature increasing from 10°C to 40°C for both BF and LCT enantiomers. Thermodynamic parameters including ∆H and ∆S were also calculated, and the maximum R s were not always obtained at lowest temperature. Furthermore, the quantitative analysis methods for BF and LCT enantiomers in soil and water were also established. Such results provide a new approach for pyrethroid separation under reversed-phase condition and contribute to environmental risk assessment of pyrethroids at enantiomer level. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Insulin action in adipose tissue and muscle in hypothyroidism.

PubMed

Dimitriadis, George; Mitrou, Panayota; Lambadiari, Vaia; Boutati, Eleni; Maratou, Eirini; Panagiotakos, Demosthenes B; Koukkou, Efi; Tzanela, Marinela; Thalassinos, Nikos; Raptis, Sotirios A

2006-12-01

Although insulin resistance in thyroid hormone excess is well documented, information on insulin action in hypothyroidism is limited. To investigate this, a meal was given to 11 hypothyroid (HO; aged 45 +/- 3 yr) and 10 euthyroid subjects (EU; aged 42 +/- 4 yr). Blood was withdrawn for 360 min from veins (V) draining the anterior abdominal sc adipose tissue and the forearm and from the radial artery (A). Blood flow (BF) in adipose tissue was measured with 133Xe and in forearm with strain-gauge plethysmography. Tissue glucose uptake was calculated as (A-V)glucose(BF), lipoprotein lipase as (A-V)Triglycerides(BF), and lipolysis as [(V-A)glycerol(BF)]-lipoprotein lipase. The HO group had higher glucose and insulin levels than the EU group (P < 0.05). In HO vs. EU after meal ingestion (area under curve 0-360 min): 1) BF (1290 +/- 79 vs. 1579 +/- 106 ml per 100 ml tissue in forearm and 706 +/- 105 vs. 1340 +/- 144 ml per 100 ml tissue in adipose tissue) and glucose uptake (464 +/- 74 vs. 850 +/- 155 micromol per 100 ml tissue in forearm and 208 +/- 42 vs. 406 +/- 47 micromol per 100 ml tissue in adipose tissue) were decreased (P < 0.05), but fractional glucose uptake was similar (28 +/- 6 vs. 33 +/- 6% per minute in forearm and 17 +/- 4 vs. 14 +/- 3% per minute in adipose tissue); 2) suppression of lipolysis by insulin was similar; and 3) plasma triglycerides were elevated (489 +/- 91 vs. 264 +/- 36 nmol/liter.min, P < 0.05), whereas adipose tissue lipoprotein lipase (42 +/- 11 vs. 80 +/- 21 micromol per 100 ml tissue) and triglyceride clearance (45 +/- 10 vs. 109 +/- 21 ml per 100 ml tissue) were decreased in HO (P < 0.05). In hypothyroidism: 1) glucose uptake in muscle and adipose tissue is resistant to insulin; 2) suppression of lipolysis by insulin is not impaired; and 3) hypertriglyceridemia is due to decreased clearance by the adipose tissue.

Dose-response studies of Ropivacaine in blood flow of upper extremity after supraclavicular block: a double-blind randomized controlled study.

PubMed

Li, Ting; Ye, Qiguang; Wu, Daozhu; Li, Jun; Yu, Jingui

2017-12-02

The sympathetic block of upper limb leading to increased blood flow has important clinical implication in microvascular surgery. However, little is known regarding the relationship between concentration of local anesthetic and blood flow of upper limb. The aim of this dose-response study was to determine the ED 50 and ED 95 of ropivacaine in blood flow after supraclavicular block (SB). Patients undergoing upper limb surgery and supraclavicular block were randomly assigned to receive 30ml ropivacaine in concentrations of 0.125%(A Group), 0.2%(B Group), 0.25%(C Group), 0.375%(D Group), 0.5%(E Group), or 0.75%(F Group) (n=13 per group). All patients received supraclavicular block (SB). Time average maximum velocity (TAMAX), cross-sectional area (CSA) of brachial artery and skin temperatures (T s ) were measured repeatedly at the same marked points, they were taken at baseline (before block, t 0 ) and at 30min after SB (t 1 ). Blood flow(BF) = TAMAX× CSA×60 sec.. Relative blood flow (ΔBF) = BF t1 / BF t0 . Success of SB was assessed simultaneously. Supplementary anesthesia and other adverse events (AE) were recorded. Significant increase in TAMAX, CSA, BF and T s were seen in all concentration groups at t 1 comparing with t 0 (P<0.001). There was an upward trend of TAMAX, CSA, BF with the increasing concentration of ropivacaine except T s . There was no significant different of T s at t 1 among different concentration group. The dose-response formula of ropivacaine on ΔBF was Y=1+3.188/(1+10^((-2.451-X) × 1.730)) and ED 50 /ED 95 (95%CI) were 0.35/1.94%(0.25-0.45/0.83-4.52), and R 2 (coefficient of determination) =0.85. ED 50 /ED 95 (95%CI) values of sensory block were 0.18/0.33% (0.15-0.21/0.27-0.51), R 2 =0.904. The dose-response curve between SB ropivacaine and the changes of BF was determined. The ED 50 /ED 95 of ropivacaine of ΔBF are 0.35/1.94% (0.25-0.45/0.83-4.52). TAMAX, CSA and BF consistently increased with ropivacaine concentration. The maximal sympathetic block needs higher concentration than that complete sensation block needs which may benefit for microvascular surgery. Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02139982 . Retrospectively registered (Date of registration: May, 2014).

Body composition is associated with physical activity in daily life as measured using a triaxial accelerometer in both men and women.

PubMed

den Hoed, M; Westerterp, K R

2008-08-01

Activity-related energy expenditure is the most variable component of total energy expenditure and thus an important determinant of energy balance. To determine whether body composition is related to physical activity in both men and women. A total of 134 healthy participants were recruited (80 women, 54 men; aged 21+/-2 years; body mass index, 22.0+/-2.4). Physical activity was measured for a period of 2 weeks using a triaxial accelerometer for movement registration (Tracmor). Percentage body fat (%BF) was determined by underwater weighing and deuterium dilution according to Siri's three-compartment model. The participant characteristics-body mass, height and gender together explained a substantial part of the variation in %BF (R(2)=0.75, SEE=4.0%). Adding physical activity to the model increased the explained variation in %BF with 4% (R(2)=0.79, SEE=3.7%, P<0.001). Taking seasonality into account by adding the number of daylight hours as an independent variable further increased the explained variation with 1% (R(2)=0.80, SEE=3.7%, P<0.05). In analogy, the association was evaluated for both genders separately. In women, %BF and physical activity were significantly associated (P<0.001). In men, %BF was only associated with physical activity when seasonality was taken into account as well (P<0.05). This probably resulted from men participating more in season bound sports, because an association was found without adjusting for seasonality when only men with a consistent year-round participation in sports were considered. Evidence was found for an association between body composition and physical activity in both genders. A consistent year-round degree of physical activity appears to be a prerequisite to reveal the association. Moreover, Tracmor-assessed physical activity improves the estimate of %BF when a participant's characteristics are taken into account.