Examining the validity of the family investment and stress models and relationship to children's school readiness across five cultural groups.

PubMed

Iruka, Iheoma U; Laforett, Doré R; Odom, Erika C

2012-06-01

Using the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Birth Cohort (ECLS-B) dataset, this study examined whether the family investment and the family stress models generalized to non-European American (EA) families. Specifically, we examined whether parenting processes mediated the association between family demographics and children's school readiness, and whether the pathways vary across cultural groups. Both models were most salient for EAs followed by African Americans (AAs) and Spanish-speaking Hispanics, but less so for English-speaking Hispanics (EHs) and Asian Americans. Findings indicated that sensitive parenting was a salient mediator between family demographics and children's school readiness for all groups except EHs; negative parenting and parent-child activities were salient mediators for EAs only. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved.

[Electroacupuncture Intervention Enhances Splenic Natural Killer Cell Activity via Inhibiting Phosphorylation of ERK 5 in the Hypothalamus of Surgically Traumatized Rats].

PubMed

Chen, Yan; Li, Jing; Zhu, Ke-ying; Xiao, Sheng; Wang, Yan-qing; Wu, Gen-cheng; Wang, Jun

2015-06-01

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on cytotoxic activity of splenic natural killer (NK) cells after surgical trauma via extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 5 pathway in the rats' hypothalamus, so as to explore its mechanism underlying improving immune disorders after surgery. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the following 6 groups: control, trauma model, EA, sham EA, 4 nmol-BIX 02188 (an inhibitor for ERK 5 catalytic activity) and 20 nmol-BIX 02188 (n = 6 rats per group). The surgical trauma model was established by making a longitudinal incision (6 cm in length) along the median line of the back to expose the spinal column and another longitudinal incision along the abdominal median line. EA (2 Hz/15 Hz, 1 - 2 mA) was applied to bilateral "Zusanli" (ST 36) for 30 min immediately after surgery. For rats of the BIX groups, intra-lateral ventricular microinjection of BIX 02188 (10 µL, 4 nmol or 20 nmol, or saline for control rats) was conducted 30 min before the surgery. The expression level and protein of phosphorylated ERK 5 (p-ERK 5) and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) protein were measured by immunohistochemistry and Western blot, respectively. The cytotoxicity of splenic NK cells and the expression of splenic Perforin and Granzyme-B genes were measured by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assay and real-time PCR, respectively. In comparison with the control group, hypothalamic p-ERK 5 immunoactivity, p-ERK 5 protein and CRF protein expression levels were significantly up-regulated in the model group (P<0. 01, P<0. 05), while splenic NK cell cytotoxicity and Perforin mRNA and Granzyme-B mRNA expression levels were notably down-regulated in the model group (P <0. 05, P < 0. 01). Following EA and administration of ERK 5 antagonist, the increased expression levels of p-ERK 5 immunoactivity in the EA group, and p-ERK 5 and CRF proteins in both EA and 20 nmol-BIX 02188 groups were obviously down-regulated (P<0. 05, P<0. 01), without changes in the sham EA and 4 nmol-BIX 02188 groups (P>0. 05) except the increased p-ERK 5 protein in the 4 nmol-BIX 02188 group. In addition, the down-regulated NK cell activity, Perforin mRNA and Granzyme-B mRNA expression levels were significantly reversed in the EA and 20 nmol-BIX 02188 groups (P<0. 05, P<0. 01). No significant differences were found between the EA group and 20 nmol-BIX 02188 group in down-regulating hypothalamic p-ERK 5 and CRF protein expression and up-regulating splenic NK cytotoxicity and Perforin and Granzyme-B gene expression (P>0. 05). EA can promote the cytotoxicity of splenic NK cells in surgical trauma rats, which may be closely associated with its functions in down-regulating trauma-induced activation of ERK 5 pathway and production of CRF in the hypothalamus.

A Measurement of the Average Longitudinal Development Profile of Cosmic Ray Air Showers from 1017.5eV to 1020eV by HiRes-II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hughes, G.

Ultra High Energy Cosmic Rays (UHECRs) have an energy many times greater than that of particles accelerated in colliders. The Extended Air Showers (EAS) resulting from their interaction in the atmosphere give us the opportunity to study not only Cosmic Rays but also these extremely energetic cascades. A method to calculate the Average Longitudinal Shower profile has been applied to the High Resolution Fly's Eye Detector (HiRes) data. A complete detector simulation was used to throw CORSIKA (QGSJET) showers which are then analyzed using the same technique. The main features of the average showers are compared to the Monte Carlo as a function of energy. Systematic errors in the reconstruction of the profile are considered.

SYMPTOM PRESENTATIONS AND CLASSIFICATION OF AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER IN EARLY CHILDHOOD: APPLICATION TO THE DIAGNOSTIC CLASSIFICATION OF MENTAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS OF INFANCY AND EARLY CHILDHOOD (DC:0-5).

PubMed

Soto, Timothy; Giserman Kiss, Ivy; Carter, Alice S

2016-09-01

Over the past 5 years, a great deal of information about the early course of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has emerged from longitudinal prospective studies of infants at high risk for developing ASD based on a previously diagnosed older sibling. The current article describes early ASD symptom presentations and outlines the rationale for defining a new disorder, Early Atypical Autism Spectrum Disorder (EA-ASD) to accompany ASD in the new revision of the ZERO TO THREE Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood (DC:0-5) (in press) alternative diagnostic classification manual. EA-ASD is designed to identify children who are 9 to 36 months of age presenting with a minimum of (a) two social-communication symptoms and (b) one repetitive and restricted behavior symptom as well as (c) evidence of impairment, with the intention of providing these children with appropriately tailored services and improving the likelihood of optimizing their development. © 2016 Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health.

SYMPTOM PRESENTATIONS AND CLASSIFICATION OF AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER IN EARLY CHILDHOOD: APPLICATION TO THE DIAGNOSTIC CLASSIFICATION OF MENTAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS OF INFANCY AND EARLY CHILDHOOD (DC:0–5)

PubMed Central

SOTO, TIMOTHY; KISS, IVY GISERMAN; CARTER, ALICE S.

2018-01-01

Over the past 5 years, a great deal of information about the early course of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has emerged from longitudinal prospective studies of infants at high risk for developing ASD based on a previously diagnosed older sibling. The current article describes early ASD symptom presentations and outlines the rationale for defining a new disorder, Early Atypical Autism Spectrum Disorder (EA-ASD) to accompany ASD in the new revision of the ZERO TO THREE Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood (DC:0–5) (in press) alternative diagnostic classification manual. EA-ASD is designed to identify children who are 9 to 36 months of age presenting with a minimum of (a) two social-communication symptoms and (b) one repetitive and restricted behavior symptom as well as (c) evidence of impairment, with the intention of providing these children with appropriately tailored services and improving the likelihood of optimizing their development. PMID:27556740

Prospective longitudinal study of the pregnancy DNA methylome: the US Pregnancy, Race, Environment, Genes (PREG) study

PubMed Central

Moyer, Sara; Olivares, Emily; Amstadter, Ananda B; Kinser, Patricia A; Latendresse, Shawn J; Jackson-Cook, Colleen; Roberson-Nay, Roxann; Strauss, Jerome F; York, Timothy P

2018-01-01

Purpose The goal of the Pregnancy, Race, Environment, Genes study was to understand how social and environmental determinants of health (SEDH), pregnancy-specific environments (PSE) and biological processes influence the timing of birth and account for the racial disparity in preterm birth. The study followed a racially diverse longitudinal cohort throughout pregnancy and included repeated measures of PSE and DNA methylation (DNAm) over the course of gestation and up to 1 year into the postpartum period. Participants All women were between 18 and 40 years of age with singleton pregnancies and no diagnosis of diabetes or indication of assisted reproductive technology. Both mother and father had to self-identify as either African-American (AA) or European-American (EA). Maternal peripheral blood samples along with self-report questionnaires measuring SEDH and PSE factors were collected at four pregnancy visits, and umbilical cord blood was obtained at birth. A subset of participants returned for two additional postpartum visits, during which additional questionnaires and maternal blood samples were collected. The pregnancy and postpartum extension included n=240 (AA=126; EA=114) and n=104 (AA=50; EA=54), respectively. Findings to date One hundred seventy-seven women (AA=89, EA=88) met full inclusion criteria out of a total of 240 who were initially enrolled. Of the 63 participants who met exclusion criteria after enrolment, 44 (69.8%) were associated with a medical reason. Mean gestational age at birth was significantly shorter for the AA participants by 5.1 days (M=272.5 (SD=10.5) days vs M=277.6 (SD=8.3)). Future plans Future studies will focus on identifying key environmental factors that influence DNAm change across pregnancy and account for racial differences in preterm birth. PMID:29743320

Evidence that morphine and opioid peptides do not share a common pathway with adenosine in inhibiting acetylcholine release from isolated intestine.

PubMed

Vizi, E S; Somogyi, G T; Magyar, K

1981-12-01

1 The release of acetylcholine from guinea-pig ileal isolated longitudinal muscle strip with intact Auerbach's plexus was measured by bioassay and by a radioisotope technique. 2 Normorphine (5 x 10(-7)M) and D-Met2, Pro5-enkephalinamide (D-Met, Pro-EA) reduced the release of acetylcholine. Theophylline, an adenosine antagonist, failed to prevent the inhibitory effect of normorphine or D-Met, Pro-EA. 3 Theophylline (1.7 x 10(-4)M) by itself enhanced the twitch responses to field stimulation (0.1 Hz) but did not prevent the inhibitory effect of normorphine and D-Met, Pro-EA. 4 From the results it can be concluded that morphine and opioid peptides do not share a common pathway with adenosine in inhibiting acetylcholine release from axon terminals of Auerbach's plexus.

High-frequency electroacupuncture versus carprofen in an incisional pain model in rats

PubMed Central

Teixeira, F.M.; Castro, L.L.; Ferreira, R.T.; Pires, P.A.; Vanderlinde, F.A.; Medeiros, M.A.

2012-01-01

The objective of the present study was to compare the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) and carprofen (CP) on postoperative incisional pain using the plantar incision (PI) model in rats. A 1-cm longitudinal incision was made through skin, fascia and muscles of a hind paw of male Wistar rats and the development of mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity was determined over 4 days using the von Frey and Hargreaves methods, respectively. Based on the experimental treatments received on the third postoperative day, the animals were divided into the following groups: PI+CP (CP, 2 mg/kg, po); PI+EAST36 (100-Hz EA applied bilaterally at the Zusanli point (ST36)); PI+EANP (EA applied to a non-acupoint region); PI+IMMO (immobilization only); PI (vehicle). In the von Frey test, the PI+EAST36 group had higher withdrawal force thresholds in response to mechanical stimuli than the PI, PI+IMMO and PI+EANP groups at several times studied. Furthermore, the PI+EAST36 group showed paw withdrawal thresholds in response to mechanical stimuli that were similar to those of the PI+CP group. In the Hargreaves test, all groups had latencies higher than those observed with PI. The PI+EAST36 group was similar to the PI+IMMO, PI+EANP and PI+CP groups. We conclude that 100-Hz EA at the ST36 point, but not at non-acupoints, can reduce mechanical nociception in the rat model of incisional pain, and its effectiveness is comparable to that of carprofen. PMID:22911345

Longitudinal trends in climate drive flowering time clines in North American Arabidopsis thaliana.

PubMed

Samis, Karen E; Murren, Courtney J; Bossdorf, Oliver; Donohue, Kathleen; Fenster, Charles B; Malmberg, Russell L; Purugganan, Michael D; Stinchcombe, John R

2012-06-01

Introduced species frequently show geographic differentiation, and when differentiation mirrors the ancestral range, it is often taken as evidence of adaptive evolution. The mouse-ear cress (Arabidopsis thaliana) was introduced to North America from Eurasia 150-200 years ago, providing an opportunity to study parallel adaptation in a genetic model organism. Here, we test for clinal variation in flowering time using 199 North American (NA) accessions of A. thaliana, and evaluate the contributions of major flowering time genes FRI, FLC, and PHYC as well as potential ecological mechanisms underlying differentiation. We find evidence for substantial within population genetic variation in quantitative traits and flowering time, and putatively adaptive longitudinal differentiation, despite low levels of variation at FRI, FLC, and PHYC and genome-wide reductions in population structure relative to Eurasian (EA) samples. The observed longitudinal cline in flowering time in North America is parallel to an EA cline, robust to the effects of population structure, and associated with geographic variation in winter precipitation and temperature. We detected major effects of FRI on quantitative traits associated with reproductive fitness, although the haplotype associated with higher fitness remains rare in North America. Collectively, our results suggest the evolution of parallel flowering time clines through novel genetic mechanisms.

Characterizing cardiac dysfunction in fetuses with left congenital diaphragmatic hernia.

PubMed

Cruz-Lemini, Mónica; Valenzuela-Alcaraz, Brenda; Granados-Montiel, Julio; Martínez, Josep M; Crispi, Fátima; Gratacós, Eduard; Cruz-Martínez, Rogelio

2018-03-23

To evaluate cardiac function by conventional echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging in fetuses with left congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Conventional echocardiography (myocardial performance index, ventricular filling velocities, and E/A ratios) and tissue Doppler imaging (annular myocardial peak velocities, E/E' and E'/A' ratios) in mitral, septal, and tricuspid annulus were evaluated in a cohort of 31 left-sided CDH fetuses and compared with 75 controls matched for gestational age 2:1. In comparison to controls, CDH fetuses had prolonged isovolumetric time periods (isovolumetric contraction time 35 ms vs 28 ms, P < .001), with higher myocardial performance index (0.49 vs 0.42, P < .001) and tricuspid E/A ratios (0.77 vs 0.72, P = .033). Longitudinal function assessed by tissue Doppler showed signs of impaired relaxation (mitral lateral A' 8.0 vs 10.1 cm/s, P < .001 and an increased mitral lateral E'/A' ratio 0.93 vs 0.78, P < .001) in the CDH fetuses as compared with controls, with preserved systolic function. Left CDH fetuses show echocardiographic signs of diastolic dysfunction, probably secondary to fetal heart compression, maintaining a preserved systolic function. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Effect of electroacupuncture on the cervicospinal P2X7 receptor/fractalkine/CX3CR1 signaling pathway in a rat neck-incision pain model.

PubMed

Gao, Y H; Li, C W; Wang, J Y; Tan, L H; Duanmu, C L; Jing, X H; Chang, X R; Liu, J L

2017-06-01

Increasing evidence supports that acupuncture intervention is an effective approach for intraoperative and postoperative pain. Neuron-microglia crosstalk, mediated by the purinergic P2X7 receptor (R)/fractalkine/CX3CR1 cascade in the spinal cord dorsal horn, plays a pivotal role in pain processing. However, its involvement in the analgesic effect of electroacupuncture (EA) remains unclear. In this study, a rat neck-incision pain model was established by making a longitudinal incision along the midline of the neck and subsequent repeated mechanical stimulation. EA stimulation was applied to bilateral LI18, LI4-PC6, or ST36-GB34. The thermal pain threshold, cervicospinal ATP concentration, expression levels of purinergic P2XR and P2YR subunits mRNAs, and fractalkine, CX3CR1 and p38 MAPK proteins, were detected separately. The neck incision induced strong thermal hyperalgesia and upregulation of spinal ATP within 48 h. No significant change was found in thermal hyperalgesia after a single session of EA intervention. However, a single session of EA dramatically enhanced the neck incision-induced upregulation of ATP and upregulated the expression of P2X7R, which was reversed by two sessions of EA. Two sessions of EA at bilateral LI18 or LI4-PC6 attenuated hyperalgesia significantly, accompanied with downregulation of P2X7R/fractalkine/ CX3CR1 signaling after three sessions of EA. EA stimulation of LI18 or LI4-PC6 alleviates thermal hyperalgesia in neck-incision pain rats, which may be associated with its effects in regulating the neck incision-induced increase of ATP and P2X7R and subsequently suppressing fractalkine/CX3CR1 signaling in the cervical spinal cord.

A hybrid method for evaluating enterprise architecture implementation.

PubMed

Nikpay, Fatemeh; Ahmad, Rodina; Yin Kia, Chiam

2017-02-01

Enterprise Architecture (EA) implementation evaluation provides a set of methods and practices for evaluating the EA implementation artefacts within an EA implementation project. There are insufficient practices in existing EA evaluation models in terms of considering all EA functions and processes, using structured methods in developing EA implementation, employing matured practices, and using appropriate metrics to achieve proper evaluation. The aim of this research is to develop a hybrid evaluation method that supports achieving the objectives of EA implementation. To attain this aim, the first step is to identify EA implementation evaluation practices. To this end, a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was conducted. Second, the proposed hybrid method was developed based on the foundation and information extracted from the SLR, semi-structured interviews with EA practitioners, program theory evaluation and Information Systems (ISs) evaluation. Finally, the proposed method was validated by means of a case study and expert reviews. This research provides a suitable foundation for researchers who wish to extend and continue this research topic with further analysis and exploration, and for practitioners who would like to employ an effective and lightweight evaluation method for EA projects. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

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

PubMed Central

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

2009-01-01

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

Prospective longitudinal study of the pregnancy DNA methylome: the US Pregnancy, Race, Environment, Genes (PREG) study.

PubMed

Lapato, Dana M; Moyer, Sara; Olivares, Emily; Amstadter, Ananda B; Kinser, Patricia A; Latendresse, Shawn J; Jackson-Cook, Colleen; Roberson-Nay, Roxann; Strauss, Jerome F; York, Timothy P

2018-05-09

The goal of the Pregnancy, Race, Environment, Genes study was to understand how social and environmental determinants of health (SEDH), pregnancy-specific environments (PSE) and biological processes influence the timing of birth and account for the racial disparity in preterm birth. The study followed a racially diverse longitudinal cohort throughout pregnancy and included repeated measures of PSE and DNA methylation (DNAm) over the course of gestation and up to 1 year into the postpartum period. All women were between 18 and 40 years of age with singleton pregnancies and no diagnosis of diabetes or indication of assisted reproductive technology. Both mother and father had to self-identify as either African-American (AA) or European-American (EA). Maternal peripheral blood samples along with self-report questionnaires measuring SEDH and PSE factors were collected at four pregnancy visits, and umbilical cord blood was obtained at birth. A subset of participants returned for two additional postpartum visits, during which additional questionnaires and maternal blood samples were collected. The pregnancy and postpartum extension included n=240 (AA=126; EA=114) and n=104 (AA=50; EA=54), respectively. One hundred seventy-seven women (AA=89, EA=88) met full inclusion criteria out of a total of 240 who were initially enrolled. Of the 63 participants who met exclusion criteria after enrolment, 44 (69.8%) were associated with a medical reason. Mean gestational age at birth was significantly shorter for the AA participants by 5.1 days (M=272.5 (SD=10.5) days vs M=277.6 (SD=8.3)). Future studies will focus on identifying key environmental factors that influence DNAm change across pregnancy and account for racial differences in preterm birth. © 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.

Maternal Weight Predicts Children's Psychosocial Development via Parenting Stress and Emotional Availability

PubMed Central

Bergmann, Sarah; Schlesier-Michel, Andrea; Wendt, Verena; Grube, Matthias; Keitel-Korndörfer, Anja; Gausche, Ruth; von Klitzing, Kai; Klein, Annette M.

2016-01-01

Introduction: Maternal obesity has been shown to be a risk factor for obesity in children and may also affect children's psychosocial outcomes. It is not yet clear whether there are also psycho-emotional mechanisms explaining the effects of maternal weight on young children's weight and psychosocial development. We aimed to evaluate whether maternal body mass index (BMI), mother–child emotional availability (EA), and maternal parenting stress are associated with children's weight and psychosocial development (i.e., internalizing/externalizing symptoms and social competence) and whether these predictors interact with each other. Methods: This longitudinal study included three assessment points (~11 months apart). The baseline sample consisted of N = 194 mothers and their children aged 5–47 months (M = 28.18, SD = 8.44, 99 girls). At t1, we measured maternal weight and height to calculate maternal BMI. We videotaped mother–child interactions, coding them with the EA Scales (fourth edition). We assessed maternal parenting stress with the Parenting Stress Index (PSI) short form. At t1 to t3, we measured height and weight of children and calculated BMI–SDS scores. Children's externalizing and internalizing problems (t1–t3) and social competence (t3, N = 118) were assessed using questionnaires: Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL 1.5–5), Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ: prosocial behavior), and a checklist for behavioral problems at preschool age (VBV 3–6: social-emotional competence). Results: By applying structural equation modeling (SEM) and a latent regression analysis, we found maternal BMI to predict higher BMI–SDS and a poorer psychosocial development (higher externalizing symptoms, lower social competence) in children. Higher parenting stress predicted higher levels of externalizing and internalizing symptoms and lower social competence. Better maternal EA was associated with higher social competence. We found parenting stress to serve as a mediator in the association between maternal weight and children's psychosocial outcomes. Moreover, children of mothers with an elevated BMI were at greater risk of lower social competence only when their mothers showed low levels of maternal EA (moderation). Conclusion: Interventional studies are needed that investigate the causal pathways between parenting stress, mother–child interaction quality and child outcomes. These aspects might be targets to improve the psychosocial development of the offspring of overweight or obese mothers. PMID:27559321

Maternal Weight Predicts Children's Psychosocial Development via Parenting Stress and Emotional Availability.

PubMed

Bergmann, Sarah; Schlesier-Michel, Andrea; Wendt, Verena; Grube, Matthias; Keitel-Korndörfer, Anja; Gausche, Ruth; von Klitzing, Kai; Klein, Annette M

2016-01-01

Maternal obesity has been shown to be a risk factor for obesity in children and may also affect children's psychosocial outcomes. It is not yet clear whether there are also psycho-emotional mechanisms explaining the effects of maternal weight on young children's weight and psychosocial development. We aimed to evaluate whether maternal body mass index (BMI), mother-child emotional availability (EA), and maternal parenting stress are associated with children's weight and psychosocial development (i.e., internalizing/externalizing symptoms and social competence) and whether these predictors interact with each other. This longitudinal study included three assessment points (~11 months apart). The baseline sample consisted of N = 194 mothers and their children aged 5-47 months (M = 28.18, SD = 8.44, 99 girls). At t 1, we measured maternal weight and height to calculate maternal BMI. We videotaped mother-child interactions, coding them with the EA Scales (fourth edition). We assessed maternal parenting stress with the Parenting Stress Index (PSI) short form. At t 1 to t 3, we measured height and weight of children and calculated BMI-SDS scores. Children's externalizing and internalizing problems (t 1-t 3) and social competence (t 3, N = 118) were assessed using questionnaires: Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL 1.5-5), Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ: prosocial behavior), and a checklist for behavioral problems at preschool age (VBV 3-6: social-emotional competence). By applying structural equation modeling (SEM) and a latent regression analysis, we found maternal BMI to predict higher BMI-SDS and a poorer psychosocial development (higher externalizing symptoms, lower social competence) in children. Higher parenting stress predicted higher levels of externalizing and internalizing symptoms and lower social competence. Better maternal EA was associated with higher social competence. We found parenting stress to serve as a mediator in the association between maternal weight and children's psychosocial outcomes. Moreover, children of mothers with an elevated BMI were at greater risk of lower social competence only when their mothers showed low levels of maternal EA (moderation). Interventional studies are needed that investigate the causal pathways between parenting stress, mother-child interaction quality and child outcomes. These aspects might be targets to improve the psychosocial development of the offspring of overweight or obese mothers.

Crush analysis of the foam-filled bitubal circular tube under oblique impact

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Djamaluddin, F.; Abdullah, S.; Arrifin, A. K.; Nopiah, Z. M.

2018-02-01

This paper presents crashworthiness analysis of bitubal cylindrical tubes under different impact angular. The numerical solution of double cylindrical tubes are determined by finite element analysis (FEA). Moreover, the structure was impacted by mass block as impactor respect to longitudinal direction of the tubes. The model of structure was developed by non-linear ABAQUS sofware with variations of load angle and dimensions of tube. The outcome of this study is the respons parameters such as the peak crusing force (PCF), energy absorption (EA) and specific energy absorption (SEA), thus it can be expected this tube as the great energy absorber.

Fall 1989-Spring 1990 Retention Analysis. Enrollment Analysis EA91-3.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clagett, Craig A.

Fall-to-spring retention rates were calculated at Prince George's Community College (PGCC) for several demographic groups and for first-time students attending the college in fall 1989. Data from longitudinal studies were included to provide a more complete picture of student persistence at PGCC. Study findings included the following: (1) 60% of…

A longitudinal study in youth of heart rate variability at rest and in response to stress

PubMed Central

Li, Zhibin; Snieder, Harold; Su, Shaoyong; Ding, Xiuhua; Thayer, Julian F.; Treiber, Frank A.; Wang, Xiaoling

2009-01-01

Background Few longitudinal studies have examined ethnic and sex differences, predictors and tracking stabilities of heart rate variability (HRV) at rest and in response to stress in youths and young adults. Methods Two evaluations were performed approximately 1.5 years apart on 399 youths and young adults (189 European Americans [EAs] and 210 African Americans [AAs]; 190 males and 209 females). HRV was measured at rest and during a video game challenge. Results AAs showed significantly higher resting root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD) of normal R-R intervals and high-frequency (HF) power than EAs (Ps< 0.01). Females displayed larger decrease of RMSSD and HF during video game challenge than males (Ps< 0.05). These ethnic and sex differences were consistent across 1.5 years. No significant sex difference of resting HRV or ethnic difference of HRV response to stress was observed. In addition to age, ethnicity or sex, baseline resting HRV or HRV response to stress are predictors of the corresponding variables 1.5 years later (Ps< 0.01). Furthermore, weight gain indexed by either body mass index or waist circumference predicts declined resting HRV levels during follow up (Ps < 0.05). Tracking stabilities were high (>0.5) for resting HRV, but relatively low (<0.3) for HRV in response to stress. Conclusion AAs show higher resting HRV than EAs, and females display greater HRV response to stress than males; and these ethnic and sex differences are consistent across 1.5 years. Resting HRV declines with weight gain. PMID:19285108

Enhanced erythrocyte aggregation in type 2 diabetes with late complications.

PubMed

Demiroglu, H; Gürlek, A; Barişta, I

1999-01-01

We investigated whether erythrocyte aggregation (EA) is enhanced in type 2 diabetic patients who have developed microvascular or macrovascular complications. EA rates at high and low shear rates were analysed in 141 patients with type 2 diabetes who were further divided into 4 subgroups according to the status of diabetic complications and degree of metabolic control. Groups 1 (n = 43) and 2 (n = 23) consisted of well-controlled patients without and with clinically evident late complications, while groups 3 (n = 33) and 4 (n = 42) represented poorly controlled patients without and with these complications, respectively. 124 healthy subjects served as the control group. Mean EA rate was comparable between control subjects and group 1 both at high (2.05 +/- 0.03 vs. 2.14 +/- 0.07, respectively) and low (6.96 +/- 0.02 vs. 7.04 +/- 0.06, respectively) shear rates. Mean EA rate was also comparable between groups 2 and 4 at high (2.76 +/- 0.09 vs. 2.94 +/- 0.07, respectively) and low (8.18 +/- 0.13 vs. 8.41 +/- 0.1, respectively) shear rates. However, EA at both shear rates in groups 2 and 4 were significantly higher than control subjects, group 1 (p < 0.0001) and group 3 (high shear rate EA: 2.76 +/- 0.09 and low shear rate EA: 7.48 +/- 0.07 (p < 0.01). In group 3, EA rates were significantly higher than control subjects and group 1 (p < 0.05) at both shear rates. No significant correlation was found between EA at high and low shear rates and fibrinogen levels in diabetic subgroups and control subjects. The data suggest that patients with type 2 diabetes who had developed clinically evident late complications have enhanced EA regardless of the degree of metabolic control. Whether enhanced EA is a primary phenomenon contributing to the development of these complications or it occurs secondary to their development remains to be clarified.

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

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

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

1985-01-01

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

The < ln A > study with the Muon tracking detector in the KASCADE-Grande experiment - comparison of hadronic interaction models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Łuczak, P.; Apel, W. D.; Arteaga-Velázquez, J. C.; Bekk, K.; Bertaina, M.; Blümer, J.; Bozdog, H.; Brancus, I. M.; Cantoni, E.; Chiavassa, A.; Cossavella, F.; Curcio, C.; Daumiller, K.; de Souza, V.; Di Pierro, F.; Doll, P.; Engel, R.; Engler, J.; Fuchs, B.; Fuhrmann, D.; Gils, H. J.; Glasstetter, R.; Grupen, C.; Haungs, A.; Heck, D.; Hörandel, J. R.; Huber, D.; Huege, T.; Kampert, K.-H.; Kang, D.; Klages, H. O.; Link, K.; Ludwig, M.; Mathes, H. J.; Mayer, H. J.; Melissas, M.; Milke, J.; Mitrica, B.; Morello, C.; Oehlschläger, J.; Ostapchenko, S.; Palmieri, N.; Petcu, M.; Pierog, T.; Rebel, H.; Roth, M.; Schieler, H.; Schoo, S.; Schröder, F. G.; Sima, O.; Toma, G.; Trinchero, G. C.; Ulrich, H.; Weindl, A.; Wochele, J.; Zabierowski, J.

2015-08-01

With the KASCADE-Grande Muon Tracking Detector it was possible to measure with high accuracy directions of EAS muons with energy above 0.8 GeV and up to 700 m distance from the shower centre. Reconstructed muon tracks allow investigation of muon pseudorapidity (η) distributions. These distributions are nearly identical to the pseudorapidity distributions of their parent mesons produced in hadronic interactions. Comparison of the η distributions from measured and simulated showers can be used to test the quality of the high energy hadronic interaction models. The pseudorapidity distributions reflect the longitudinal development of EAS and, as such, are sensitive to the mass of the cosmic ray primary particles. With various parameters of the η distribution, obtained from the Muon Tracking Detector data, it is possible to calculate the average logarithm of mass of the primary cosmic ray particles. The results of the < ln A > analysis in the primary energy range 1016 eV-1017 eV with the 1st quartile and the mean value of the distributions will be presented for the QGSJet-II-2, QGSJet-II-4, EPOS 1.99 and EPOS LHC models in combination with the FLUKA model.

Non-volumetric echocardiographic indices and qualitative assessment of right ventricular systolic function in Ebstein's anomaly: comparison with CMR-derived ejection fraction in 49 patients.

PubMed

Kühn, Andreas; Meierhofer, Christian; Rutz, Tobias; Rondak, Ina-Christine; Röhlig, Christoph; Schreiber, Christian; Fratz, Sohrab; Ewert, Peter; Vogt, Manfred

2016-08-01

Ebstein's anomaly (EA) is often associated with right ventricular (RV) dysfunction. Data on echocardiographic quantification of RV function are, however, rare. The aim of this study was to determine how non-volumetric echocardiographic indices and qualitative assessment of global systolic RV function correlate with cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR)-derived RV ejection fraction (EF). We compared six echocardiographic indices and qualitative assessment of RV function with the gold standard CMR. A total of 49 unoperated patients with EA and a mean age of 32 ± 18 years were examined. Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, tissue Doppler myocardial velocities (peak S and IVA) and 2D strain and strain rate measures for the RV were compared with CMR-derived EF. Only 2D global longitudinal strain (2D-GLS), out of the six parameters investigated, showed a weak, although statistically significant correlation with CMR-derived RVEF (R = -0.4, P = 0.01). Using a cut-off value of -20.15, 2D-GLS sensitivity (77%) and specificity (46%) in detecting patients with a CMR-derived EF of <50% were comparable with qualitative assessment (sensitivity 77%, specificity 45%). Overall echocardiographic parameters of RV function correlate poorly with CMR-derived EF in patients with EA. Only 2D global longitudinal RV strain correlated weakly with CMR-derived RVEF. However, the sensitivity and specificity for detecting RV dysfunction using 2D strain imaging were comparable with qualitative RV functional assessment. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2015. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

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

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

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

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

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

Frailty Transitions in the San Antonio Longitudinal Study of Aging

PubMed Central

Espinoza, Sara E.; Jung, Inkyung; Hazuda, Helen

2012-01-01

OBJECTIVES To examine frailty transitions in Mexican American (MA) and European American (EA) older adults. DESIGN Longitudinal, observational cohort study. SETTING Socioeconomically diverse neighborhoods in San Antonio, Texas. PARTICIPANTS 312 MA and 285 EA community-dwelling older adults (65+) with frailty information at baseline (1992–96) and transition information at follow-up (2000–01) in the San Antonio Longitudinal Study of Aging (SALSA). MEASUREMENTS Five frailty characteristics (weight loss, exhaustion, weakness, slowness, and low physical activity), frailty score (0–5), and overall frailty state (non-frail = 0 characteristics, pre-frail = 1 or 2, frail = 3+) were assessed at baseline. Transitions (progressed, regressed, or no change) were assessed for frailty score and state. Odds ratios (OR) of progression and regression in individual characteristics were estimated using generalized estimating equations, adjusting for age, sex, ethnic group, socioeconomic status, comorbidity, diabetes, and follow-up interval. RESULTS Diabetes with macrovascular complications (OR=1.84, 95%CI: 1.02–3.33), fewer years of education (OR=0.96, 95%CI: 0.93–1.0) and follow-up interval (OR=1.3, 95%CI: 1.17–1.46) were significant predictors of progression in any frailty characteristic. Mortality increased by frailty state, and pre-frail individuals were more likely than frail to regress. CONCLUSION Diabetes with macrovascular complications and fewer years of education are important predictors of progression in any frailty characteristic. Because of increased risk of death compared with the non-frail state and the increased likelihood of regression compared with the frail state, the pre-frail state may be an optimal target for intervention. PMID:22316162

Development of 2 underseat energy absorbers for application to crashworthy passenger seats for general aviation aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Warrick, J. C.; Desjardins, S. P.

1979-01-01

This report presents the methodology and results of a program conducted to develop two underseat energy absorber (E/A) concepts for application to nonadjustable crashworthy passenger seats for general aviation aircraft. One concept utilizes an inflated air bag, and the other, a convoluted sheet metal bellows. Prototypes of both were designed, built, and tested. Both concepts demonstrated the necessary features of an energy absorber (load-limiter); however, the air bag concept is particularly encouraging because of its light weight. Several seat frame concepts also were investigated as a means of resisting longitudinal and lateral loads and of guiding the primary vertical stroke of the underseat energy absorber. Further development of a seat system design using the underseat energy absorbers is recommended because they provide greatly enhanced crash survivability as compared with existing general aviation aircraft seats.

Extracurricular associations and college enrollment.

PubMed

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

2015-03-01

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

Test of Hadronic Interaction Models with the KASCADE Hadron Calorimeter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Milke, J.; KASCADE Collaboration

The interpretation of extensive air shower (EAS) measurements often requires the comparison with EAS simulations based on high-energy hadronic interaction models. These interaction models have to extrapolate into kinematical regions and energy ranges beyond the limit of present accelerators. Therefore, it is necessary to test whether these models are able to describe the EAS development in a consistent way. By measuring simultaneously the hadronic, electromagnetic, and muonic part of an EAS the experiment KASCADE offers best facilities for checking the models. For the EAS simulations the program CORSIKA with several hadronic event generators implemented is used. Different hadronic observables, e.g. hadron number, energy spectrum, lateral distribution, are investigated, as well as their correlations with the electromagnetic and muonic shower size. By comparing measurements and simulations the consistency of the description of the EAS development is checked. First results with the new interaction model NEXUS and the version II.5 of the model DPMJET, recently included in CORSIKA, are presented and compared with QGSJET simulations.

Effects of electroacupuncture on the levels of retinal gamma-aminobutyric acid and its receptors in a guinea pig model of lens-induced myopia.

PubMed

Sha, F; Ye, X; Zhao, W; Xu, C-L; Wang, L; Ding, M-H; Bi, A-L; Wu, J-F; Jiang, W-J; Guo, D-D; Guo, J-G; Bi, H-S

2015-02-26

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter of the retina and affects myopic development. Electroacupuncture (EA) is widely utilized to treat myopia in clinical settings. However, there are few reports on whether EA affects the level of retinal GABA during myopic development. To study this issue, in the present study, we explored the changes of retinal GABA content and the expression of its receptor subtypes, and the effects of EA stimulation on them in a guinea pig model with lens-induced myopia (LIM). Our results showed that the content of GABA and the expression of GABAA and GABAC receptors of retina were up-regulated during the development of myopia, and this up-regulation was inhibited by applying EA to Hegu (LI4) and Taiyang (EX-HN5) acupoints. Moreover, these effects of EA show a positional specificity. While applying EA at a sham acupoint, no apparent change of myopic retinal GABA and its receptor subtypes was observed. Taken together, our findings suggest that LIM is effective to up-regulate the level of retinal GABA, GABAA and GABAC receptors in guinea pigs and the effect may be inhibited by EA stimulation at LI4 and EX-HN5 acupoints. Copyright © 2014 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Collective Temperature Anisotropy Instabilities in Intense Charged Particle Beams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Startsev, Edward

2006-10-01

Periodic focusing accelerators, transport systems and storage rings have a wide range of applications ranging from basic scientific research in high energy and nuclear physics, to applications such as ion-beam-driven high energy density physics and fusion, and spallation neutron sources. Of particular importance at the high beam currents and charge densities of practical interest, are the effects of the intense self fields produced by the beam space charge and current on determining the detailed equilibrium, stability and transport properties. Charged particle beams confined by external focusing fields represent an example of nonneutral plasma. A characteristic feature of such plasmas is the non-uniformity of the equilibrium density profiles and the nonlinearity of the self fields, which makes detailed analytical investigation very difficult. The development and application of advanced numerical tools such as eigenmode codes [1] and Monte-Carlo particle simulation methods [2] are often the only tractable approach to understand the underlying physics of different instabilities familiar in electrically neutral plasmas which may cause a degradation in beam quality. Two such instabilities are the electrostatic Harris instability [2] and the electromagnetic Weibel instability [1], both driven by a large temperature anisotropy which develops naturally in accelerators. The beam acceleration causes a large reduction in the longitudinal temperature and provides the free energy to drive collective temperature anisotropy instabilities. Such instabilities may lead to an increase in the longitudinal velocity spread, which will make focusing the beam difficult, and may impose a limit on the beam luminosity and the minimum spot size achievable in focusing experiments. This paper reviews recent advances in the theory and simulation of collective instabilities in intense charged particle beams caused by temperature anisotropy. We also describe new simulation tools that have been developed to study these instabilities. The results of the investigations that identify the instability growth rates, levels of saturations, and conditions for quiescent beam propagation will also be discussed. [1] E.A. Startsev and R.C. Davidson, Phys.Plasmas 10, 4829 (2003). [2] E.A. Startsev, R.C. Davidson and H. Qin, Phys.Rev. ST Accel. Beams 8,124201 (2005).

Experiential avoidance in the vulnerability to depression among adolescent females.

PubMed

Mellick, William; Vanwoerden, Salome; Sharp, Carla

2017-01-15

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

The maximum depth of shower with E sub 0 larger than 10(17) eV on average characteristics of EAS different components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Glushkov, A. V.; Efimov, N. N.; Makarov, I. T.; Pravdin, M. I.; Dedenko, L. G.

1985-01-01

The extensive air shower (EAS) development model independent method of the determination of a maximum depth of shower (X sub m) is considered. X sub m values obtained on various EAS parameters are in a good agreement.

Identifying Areas of Potential Wetland Hydrology in Irrigated Croplands Using Aerial Image Interpretation and Analysis of Rainfall Normality

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-01

engineering and environmental challenges. ERDC develops innovative solutions in civil and military engineering, geospatial sciences, water resources, and... tte rn o f p ea ks , i nd ic at in g th e we t p or tio n of ea ch y ea r, fo llo we d by a s ha rp d ec lin e in to th e dr y s ea so

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

PubMed Central

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

2016-01-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2016-06-01

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

Bone accrual in oligo-amenorrheic athletes, eumenorrheic athletes and non-athletes.

PubMed

Singhal, Vibha; Reyes, Karen Campoverde; Pfister, Brooke; Ackerman, Kathryn; Slattery, Meghan; Cooper, Katherine; Toth, Alexander; Gupta, Nupur; Goldstein, Mark; Eddy, Kamryn; Misra, Madhusmita

2018-05-11

Mechanical loading improves bone mineral density (BMD) and strength while decreasing fracture risk. Cross-sectional studies show that exercise advantage is lost in oligo-amenorrheic athletes (OA). Longitudinal studies examining the opposing effects of exercise and hypogonadism on bone are lacking in adolescents/young adults. Evaluate differences in bone accrual over 12 months in OA, eumenorrheic athletes (EA) and non-athletes (NA). We hypothesized that bone accrual would be lower in OA than EA and NA, with differences most pronounced at non-weight bearing trabecular sites. 27 OA, 29 EA, and 22 NA, 14-25 years old, completed 12-months of the prospective study. Athletes were weight-bearing endurance athletes. Subjects were assessed for areal BMD and bone mineral content (BMC) using DXA at the femoral neck, total hip, lumbar spine and whole body (WB). Failure load (a strength estimate) at the distal radius and tibia was assessed using microfinite element analysis of data obtained via high resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HRpQCT). The primary analysis was a comparison of changes in areal BMD, BMC, and failure load across groups over 12-months at the respective sites. Groups did not differ for baseline age, height or BMI. Percent body fat was lower in both OA and EA compared to NA. OA attained menarche later than EA and NA. Over the follow-up period, OA gained 1.9 ± 2.7 kg of weight compared to 0.5 ± 2.4 kg and 0.8 ± 2.3 kg in EA and NA respectively (p = 0.09); 39% of OA resumed menses. Changes in BMD, BMD Z-scores, and tibial failure load over 12-months did not differ among groups. At follow up, EA had higher femoral neck, hip and WB BMD Z-scores than NA, and higher hip BMD Z-scores than OA (p < 0.05) after adjusting for covariates. At follow-up, radial failure load was lower in OA vs. NA, and tibial failure load lower in OA and NA vs. EA (p ≤ 0.04 for all). Change in weight and fat mass were associated with changes in BMD measures at multiple sites. Despite weight gain and menses recovery in many OA during follow-up, residual deficits persist without catch-up raising concerns for suboptimal peak bone mass acquisition. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Pre-existing periodontitis exacerbates experimental arthritis in a mouse model.

PubMed

Cantley, Melissa D; Haynes, David R; Marino, Victor; Bartold, P Mark

2011-06-01

Previous studies have shown a higher incidence of alveolar bone loss in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and that patients with periodontitis are at a greater risk of developing RA. The aim of this study was to develop an animal model to assess the relationship between pre-existing periodontitis and experimental arthritis (EA). Periodontitis was first induced in mice by oral gavage with Porphyromonas gingivalis followed by EA using the collagen antibody-induced arthritis model. These animals were compared with animals with periodontitis alone, EA alone and no disease (controls). Visual changes in paw swelling were assessed to determine clinical development of EA. Alveolar bone and joint changes were assessed using micro-CT, histological analyses and immunohistochemistry. Serum levels of C-reactive protein were used to monitor systemic inflammation. Mice with pre-existing periodontitis developed more severe arthritis, which developed at a faster rate. Mice with periodontitis only also showed evidence of loss of bone within the radiocarpal joint. There was also evidence of alveolar bone loss in mice with EA alone. The results of this study indicate that pre-existing periodontitis exacerbated experimental arthritis in a mouse model. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

7 CFR 4280.190 - EA/REDA grant applications-content.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... America Program General Energy Audit and Renewable Energy Development Assistance Grants § 4280.190 EA/REDA...) Applicant's experience as follows: (i) If applying for a renewable energy development assistance grant, the applicant's experience in completing similar renewable energy development assistance activities, including...

7 CFR 4280.190 - EA/REDA grant applications-content.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... America Program General Energy Audit and Renewable Energy Development Assistance Grants § 4280.190 EA/REDA...) Applicant's experience as follows: (i) If applying for a renewable energy development assistance grant, the applicant's experience in completing similar renewable energy development assistance activities, including...

7 CFR 4280.190 - EA/REDA grant applications-content.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... America Program General Energy Audit and Renewable Energy Development Assistance Grants § 4280.190 EA/REDA...) Applicant's experience as follows: (i) If applying for a renewable energy development assistance grant, the applicant's experience in completing similar renewable energy development assistance activities, including...

Business Architecture Development at Public Administration - Insights from Government EA Method Engineering Project in Finland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valtonen, Katariina; Leppänen, Mauri

Governments worldwide are concerned for efficient production of services to customers. To improve quality of services and to make service production more efficient, information and communication technology (ICT) is largely exploited in public administration (PA). Succeeding in this exploitation calls for large-scale planning which embraces issues from strategic to technological level. In this planning the notion of enterprise architecture (EA) is commonly applied. One of the sub-architectures of EA is business architecture (BA). BA planning is challenging in PA due to a large number of stakeholders, a wide set of customers, and solid and hierarchical structures of organizations. To support EA planning in Finland, a project to engineer a government EA (GEA) method was launched. In this chapter, we analyze the discussions and outputs of the project workshops and reflect emerged issues on current e-government literature. We bring forth insights into and suggestions for government BA and its development.

Energy Auditor and Quality Control Inspector Competency Model

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

Head, Heather R.; Kurnik, Charles W.; Schroeder, Derek

The Energy Auditor (EA) and Quality Control Inspector (QCI) Competency model was developed to identify the soft skills, foundational competencies and define the levels of Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) required to successfully perform the tasks defined in the EA and QCI Job Task Analysis (JTAs), the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) used the U.S. Department of Labor's (DOL) Competency Model Clearinghouse resources to develop a QCI and EA Competency Model. To keep the QCI and EA competency model consistent with other construction and energy management competency models, DOE and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory used the existing 'Residential Constructionmore » Competency Model' and the 'Advanced Commercial Building Competency Model' where appropriate.« less

China in Mexico: More Opportunity than Risk

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-10-17

FDI Quality, and Plant Mortality,” World Development 37, 6 (2011): 1069- 1082 , http://ea.panam.edu/cbes/pdf/WorkingPaper1- 06.pdf. 26 Ayala, “The...1069- 1082 , http://ea.panam.edu/cbes/pdf/WorkingPaper1- 06.pdf. 9 What the study did identify were policies pursuing “proximity dependent...Mortality.” World Development 37, 6, (2011): 1069- 1082 . http://ea.panam.edu/cbes/pdf/WorkingPaper1-06.pdf. 19 Sauvant, Karl P., and Ken Davies

3D Topography of the Young Adult Anal Sphincter Complex Reconstructed from Undeformed Serial Anatomical Sections

PubMed Central

Wu, Yi; Dabhoiwala, Noshir F.; Hagoort, Jaco; Shan, Jin-Lu; Tan, Li-Wen; Fang, Bin-Ji; Zhang, Shao-Xiang; Lamers, Wouter H.

2015-01-01

Background Pelvic-floor anatomy is usually studied by artifact-prone dissection or imaging, which requires prior anatomical knowledge. We used the serial-section approach to settle contentious issues and an interactive 3D-pdf to make the results widely accessible. Method 3D reconstructions of undeformed thin serial anatomical sections of 4 females and 2 males (21–35y) of the Chinese Visible Human database. Findings Based on tendinous septa and muscle-fiber orientation as segmentation guides, the anal-sphincter complex (ASC) comprised the subcutaneous external anal sphincter (EAS) and the U-shaped puborectal muscle, a part of the levator ani muscle (LAM). The anococcygeal ligament fixed the EAS to the coccygeal bone. The puborectal-muscle loops, which define the levator hiatus, passed around the anorectal junction and inserted anteriorly on the perineal body and pubic bone. The LAM had a common anterior attachment to the pubic bone, but separated posteriorly into puborectal and “pubovisceral” muscles. This pubovisceral muscle was bilayered: its internal layer attached to the conjoint longitudinal muscle of the rectum and the rectococcygeal fascia, while its outer, patchy layer reinforced the inner layer. ASC contraction makes the ano-rectal bend more acute and lifts the pelvic floor. Extensions of the rectal longitudinal smooth muscle to the coccygeal bone (rectococcygeal muscle), perineal body (rectoperineal muscle), and endopelvic fascia (conjoint longitudinal and pubovisceral muscles) formed a “diaphragm” at the inferior boundary of the mesorectum that suspended the anorectal junction. Its contraction should straighten the anorectal bend. Conclusion The serial-section approach settled contentious topographic issues of the pelvic floor. We propose that the ASC is involved in continence and the rectal diaphragm in defecation. PMID:26305117

The topography of a continental indenter: The interplay between crustal deformation, erosion, and base level changes in the eastern Southern Alps

PubMed Central

Heberer, B.; Prasicek, G.; Neubauer, F.; Hergarten, S.

2017-01-01

Abstract The topography of the eastern Southern Alps (ESA) reflects indenter tectonics causing crustal shortening, surface uplift, and erosional response. Fluvial drainages were perturbed by Pleistocene glaciations that locally excavated alpine valleys. The Late Miocene desiccation of the Mediterranean Sea and the uplift of the northern Molasse Basin led to significant base level changes in the far field of the ESA and the Eastern Alps (EA), respectively. Among this multitude of mechanisms, the processes that dominate the current topographic evolution of the ESA and the ESA‐EA drainage divide have not been identified. We demonstrate the expected topographic effects of each mechanism in a one‐dimensional model and compare them with observed channel metrics. We find that the normalized steepness index increases with uplift rate and declines from the indenter tip in the northwest to the foreland basin in the southeast. The number and amplitude of knickpoints and the distortion in longitudinal channel profiles similarly decrease toward the east. Changes in slope of χ‐transformed channel profiles coincide spatially with the Valsugana‐Fella fault linking crustal stacking and uplift induced by indenter tectonics with topographic evolution. Gradients in χ across the ESA‐EA drainage divide imply an ongoing, north directed shift of the Danube‐ESA watershed that is most likely driven by a base level rise in the northern Molasse basin. We conclude that the regional uplift pattern controls the geometry of ESA‐EA channels, while base level changes in the far field control the overall architecture of the orogen by drainage divide migration. PMID:28344912

The topography of a continental indenter: The interplay between crustal deformation, erosion, and base level changes in the eastern Southern Alps.

PubMed

Robl, J; Heberer, B; Prasicek, G; Neubauer, F; Hergarten, S

2017-01-01

The topography of the eastern Southern Alps (ESA) reflects indenter tectonics causing crustal shortening, surface uplift, and erosional response. Fluvial drainages were perturbed by Pleistocene glaciations that locally excavated alpine valleys. The Late Miocene desiccation of the Mediterranean Sea and the uplift of the northern Molasse Basin led to significant base level changes in the far field of the ESA and the Eastern Alps (EA), respectively. Among this multitude of mechanisms, the processes that dominate the current topographic evolution of the ESA and the ESA-EA drainage divide have not been identified. We demonstrate the expected topographic effects of each mechanism in a one-dimensional model and compare them with observed channel metrics. We find that the normalized steepness index increases with uplift rate and declines from the indenter tip in the northwest to the foreland basin in the southeast. The number and amplitude of knickpoints and the distortion in longitudinal channel profiles similarly decrease toward the east. Changes in slope of χ -transformed channel profiles coincide spatially with the Valsugana-Fella fault linking crustal stacking and uplift induced by indenter tectonics with topographic evolution. Gradients in χ across the ESA-EA drainage divide imply an ongoing, north directed shift of the Danube-ESA watershed that is most likely driven by a base level rise in the northern Molasse basin. We conclude that the regional uplift pattern controls the geometry of ESA-EA channels, while base level changes in the far field control the overall architecture of the orogen by drainage divide migration.

Childhood personality as a harbinger of competence and resilience in adulthood.

PubMed

Shiner, Rebecca L; Masten, Ann S

2012-05-01

This study examined the significance of childhood Big Five personality traits for competence and resilience in early adulthood. Resilience was defined in terms of adaptive success in age-salient developmental tasks despite significant adversity throughout childhood/adolescence. The Project Competence Longitudinal Study tracked 205 young people from childhood (around age 10) to emerging adulthood (EA, age 20) and young adulthood (YA, age 30; 90% retention). Multimethod composites were created for personality traits, adversity exposure, and adult outcomes of academic achievement, work, rule-abiding conduct, friendship, and romantic relationships. Regressions showed significant main effects of childhood personality predicting adult outcomes, controlling for adversity, with few interaction effects. In person-focused analyses, the resilient group in EA and YA (high competence, high adversity) showed higher childhood conscientiousness, agreeableness, and openness and lower neuroticism than the maladaptive group (low competence, high adversity). The competent (high competence, low adversity) and resilient groups showed similar childhood traits. Turnaround cases, who changed from the maladaptive group in EA to the resilient group in YA, exhibited higher childhood conscientiousness than persistently maladaptive peers. Findings suggest that children on pathways to success in adulthood, whether facing low or high adversity, have capacities for emotion regulation, empathy and connection, dedication to schoolwork, and mastery and exploration.

Emotional availability at bedtime, infant temperament, and infant sleep development from 1 to 6 months

PubMed Central

Jian, Ni; Teti, Douglas M.

2016-01-01

Infant sleep consolidates rapidly during the first half year of life in the context of a dynamic, bidirectional exchange between infant characteristics and the caregiving environment. The current study examined relations among mothers’ emotional availability (EA) at bedtime, infant temperament, and objectively assessed infant sleep development from 1 to 6 months, and in particular focused on whether infant temperament moderated linkages between EA at bedtime and infant sleep development. The sample consisted of seventy-two mother-infant dyads, and measures included actigraphy-assessed infant sleep at 1 and 6 months, observed maternal EA coded from bedtime videos at 3 and 6 months, and maternal reports of infant temperament at 3 and 6 months. Analysis showed significant positive effects of maternal EA at bedtime on developmental changes in infant sleep minutes. Additionally, infant temperamental surgency moderated the influence of EA at bedtime on the increase in infant sleep minutes. In other words, highly surgent infants increased their sleep time more than other infants if their mothers were emotionally available at bedtime. Results were discussed in terms of the transactional model of infant sleep development. PMID:27692276

Planning, Execution, and Assessment of Effects-Based Operations (EBO)

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-05-01

time of execution that would maximize the likelihood of achieving a desired effect. GMU has developed a methodology, named ECAD -EA (Effective...Algorithm EBO Effects Based Operations ECAD -EA Effective Course of Action-Evolutionary Algorithm GMU George Mason University GUI Graphical...Probability Profile Generation ........................................................72 A.2.11 Running ECAD -EA (Effective Courses of Action Determination

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

PubMed

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

2007-03-12

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

24 CFR 50.31 - The EA.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false The EA. 50.31 Section 50.31 Housing and Urban Development Office of the Secretary, Department of Housing and Urban Development PROTECTION... assistance from professional experts and other HUD staff as needed. Additional information may also be...

24 CFR 50.31 - The EA.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false The EA. 50.31 Section 50.31 Housing and Urban Development Office of the Secretary, Department of Housing and Urban Development PROTECTION... assistance from professional experts and other HUD staff as needed. Additional information may also be...

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

PubMed

Sohaib, Muhammad; Ismail, Samina

2015-12-01

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

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

PubMed Central

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

2014-01-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2017-08-01

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

Simultaneous quantification of VX and its toxic metabolite in blood and plasma samples and its application for in vivo and in vitro toxicological studies.

PubMed

Reiter, Georg; Mikler, John; Hill, Ira; Weatherby, Kendal; Thiermann, Horst; Worek, Franz

2011-09-15

The present study was initiated to develop a sensitive and highly selective method for the simultaneous quantification of the nerve agent VX (O-ethyl S-[2(diisopropylamino)ethyl] methylphosphonothioate) and its toxic metabolite (EA-2192) in blood and plasma samples in vivo and in vitro. For the quantitative detection of VX and EA-2192 the resolution was realized on a HYPERCARB HPLC phase. A specific procedure was developed to isolate both toxic analytes from blood and plasma samples. The limit of detection was 0.1 pg/ml and the absolute recovery of the overall sample preparation procedure was 74% for VX and 69% for EA-2192. After intravenous and percutaneous administration of a supralethal doses of VX in anaesthetised swine both VX and EA-2192 could be quantified over 540 min following exposure. This study is the first to verify the in vivo formation of the toxic metabolite EA-2192 after poisoning with the nerve agent VX. Further toxicokinetic and therapeutic studies are required in order to determine the impact of EA-2192 on the treatment of acute VX poisoning. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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

PubMed Central

Liu, Xikun

2016-01-01

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

A novel framework for the local extraction of extra-axial cerebrospinal fluid from MR brain images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mostapha, Mahmoud; Shen, Mark D.; Kim, SunHyung; Swanson, Meghan; Collins, D. Louis; Fonov, Vladimir; Gerig, Guido; Piven, Joseph; Styner, Martin A.

2018-03-01

The quantification of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the human brain has shown to play an important role in early postnatal brain developmental. Extr a-axial fluid (EA-CSF), which is characterized by the CSF in the subarachnoid space, is promising in the early detection of children at risk for neurodevelopmental disorders. Currently, though, there is no tool to extract local EA-CSF measurements in a way that is suitable for localized analysis. In this paper, we propose a novel framework for the localized, cortical surface based analysis of EA-CSF. In our proposed processing, we combine probabilistic brain tissue segmentation, cortical surface reconstruction as well as streamline based local EA-CSF quantification. For streamline computation, we employ the vector field generated by solving a Laplacian partial differential equation (PDE) between the cortical surface and the outer CSF hull. To achieve sub-voxel accuracy while minimizing numerical errors, fourth-order Runge-Kutta (RK4) integration was used to generate the streamlines. Finally, the local EA-CSF is computed by integrating the CSF probability along the generated streamlines. The proposed local EA-CSF extraction tool was used to study the early postnatal brain development in typically developing infants. The results show that the proposed localized EA-CSF extraction pipeline can produce statistically significant regions that are not observed in previous global approach.

Accurate density functional prediction of molecular electron affinity with the scaling corrected Kohn–Sham frontier orbital energies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, DaDi; Yang, Xiaolong; Zheng, Xiao; Yang, Weitao

2018-04-01

Electron affinity (EA) is the energy released when an additional electron is attached to an atom or a molecule. EA is a fundamental thermochemical property, and it is closely pertinent to other important properties such as electronegativity and hardness. However, accurate prediction of EA is difficult with density functional theory methods. The somewhat large error of the calculated EAs originates mainly from the intrinsic delocalisation error associated with the approximate exchange-correlation functional. In this work, we employ a previously developed non-empirical global scaling correction approach, which explicitly imposes the Perdew-Parr-Levy-Balduz condition to the approximate functional, and achieve a substantially improved accuracy for the calculated EAs. In our approach, the EA is given by the scaling corrected Kohn-Sham lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy of the neutral molecule, without the need to carry out the self-consistent-field calculation for the anion.

Experiential Avoidance Mediates the Association between Emotion Regulation Abilities and Loneliness.

PubMed

Shi, Rui; Zhang, Shilei; Zhang, Qianwen; Fu, Shaoping; Wang, Zhenhong

2016-01-01

Experiential avoidance (EA) involves the unwillingness to remain in contact with aversive experiences such as painful feelings, thoughts, and emotions. EA is often associated with the development and maintenance of emotional problems. Since loneliness is characterized by negative emotions such as sadness and pessimism, which is often linked to emotional problems, this study aims to test the mediating effects of EA on the relationship between emotion regulation abilities (ERA) and loneliness in a sample of Chinese adults. Five hundred undergraduates completed questionnaires measuring EA (Acceptance and Action Questionnaire; AAQ-Ⅱ), ERA (Failure-relate action orientation; Action Control Scale, ACS-90) and loneliness (UCLA Loneliness Scale). Structural equation modeling showed that EA fully-mediated the relationship between ERA and loneliness. The findings suggest EA is a key mechanism in explaining why people with high ERA are prone to feeling lower levels of loneliness. In particular, these findings have important implications for designing effective psychological interventions for loneliness.

Development of antiproliferative nanohybrid compound with controlled release property using ellagic acid as the active agent

PubMed Central

Hussein, Mohd Zobir; Al Ali, Samer Hasan; Zainal, Zulkarnain; Hakim, Muhammad Nazrul

2011-01-01

An ellagic acid (EA)–zinc layered hydroxide (ZLH) nanohybrid (EAN) was synthesized under a nonaqueous environment using EA and zinc oxide (ZnO) as the precursors. Powder X-ray diffraction showed that the basal spacing of the nanohybrid was 10.4 Å, resulting in the spatial orientation of EA molecules between the interlayers of 22.5° from z-axis with two negative charges at 8,8′ position of the molecules pointed toward the ZLH interlayers. FTIR study showed that the intercalated EA spectral feature is generally similar to that of EA, but with bands slightly shifted. This indicates that some chemical bonding of EA presence between the nanohybrid interlayers was slightly changed, due to the formation of host–guest interaction. The nanohybrid is of mesopores type with 58.8% drug loading and enhanced thermal stability. The release of the drug active, EA from the nanohybrid was found to be sustained and therefore has good potential to be used as a drug controlled-release formulation. In vitro bioassay study showed that the EAN has a mild effect on the hepatocytes cells, similar to its counterpart, free EA. PMID:21796241

Earthquake Advisory Services: A prototype development project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lagorio, H. J.; Levin, H.

1980-10-01

Development of the prototype Earthquake Advisory Service (EAS) is reported. The EAS is designed to provide direct technical assistance and written materials to advise people who wish to make informed decisions about earthquake hazard reduction in their residences. It is intended also to be adapted to local conditions by community-based agencies. The EAS prototype involved the testing of early assumptions about program implementation, establishment of a systematic methodology review process, and a review of published information pertinent to the project. Operational procedures of the program and the process leading to implementation guidelines are described.

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

PubMed

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

2016-01-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2010-02-01

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

Epidural anaesthesia restores pancreatic microcirculation and decreases the severity of acute pancreatitis

PubMed Central

Demirag, Alp; Pastor, Catherine M; Morel, Philippe; Jean-Christophe, Copin; Sielenkämper, Andreas W; Güvener, Nilgun; Mai, Gang; Berney, Thierry; Frossard, Jean-Louis; Bühler, Leo H

2006-01-01

AIM: To investigate the effect of epidural anaesthesia (EA) on pancreatic microcirculation during acute pancreatitis (AP). METHODS: AP was induced by injection of sodium taurocholate into the pancreatic duct of Sprague-Dawley rats. To realize EA, a catheter was introduced into the epidural space between T7 and T9 and bupivacaine was injected. Microcirculatory flow was measured by laser Doppler flowmetry. Arterial blood gas analyses were performed. At the end of the experiment (≤ 5 h), pancreas was removed for histology. The animals were divided into three groups: Group 1 (n = 9), AP without EA; Group 2 (n = 4), EA without AP; and Group 3 (n = 6), AP treated by EA. RESULTS: In Group 1, pancreatic microcirculatory flow prior to AP was 141 ± 39 perfusion units (PU). After AP, microcirculatory flow obviously decreased to 9 ± 6 PU (P < 0.05). Metabolic acidosis developed with base excess (BE) of - 14 ± 3 mmol/L. Histology revealed extensive edema and tissue necrosis. In Group 2, EA did not significantly modify microcirculatory flow. BE remained unchanged and histological analysis showed normal pancreatic tissue. In Group 3, AP initially caused a significant decrease in microcirculatory flow from 155 ± 25 to 11 ± 7 PU (P < 0.05). After initiation of EA, microcirculatory flow obviously increased again to 81 ± 31 PU (P < 0.05). BE was -6 ± 4 mmol/L, which was significantly different compared to Group 1 (P < 0.05). Furthermore, histology revealed less extensive edema and necrosis in pancreatic tissue in Group 3 than that in Group 1. CONCLUSION: AP caused dramatic microcirculatory changes within the pancreas, with development of metabolic acidosis and tissue necrosis. EA allowed partial restoration of microcirculatory flow and prevented development of tissue necrosis and systemic complications. Therefore, EA should be considered as therapeutic option to prevent evolution from edematous to necrotic AP. PMID:16521220

The genome of the Erwinia amylovora phage PhiEaH1 reveals greater diversity and broadens the applicability of phages for the treatment of fire blight.

PubMed

Meczker, Katalin; Dömötör, Dóra; Vass, János; Rákhely, Gábor; Schneider, György; Kovács, Tamás

2014-01-01

The enterobacterium Erwinia amylovora is the causal agent of fire blight. This study presents the analysis of the complete genome of phage PhiEaH1, isolated from the soil surrounding an E. amylovora-infected apple tree in Hungary. Its genome is 218 kb in size, containing 244 ORFs. PhiEaH1 is the second E. amylovora infecting phage from the Siphoviridae family whose complete genome sequence was determined. Beside PhiEaH2, PhiEaH1 is the other active component of Erwiphage, the first bacteriophage-based pesticide on the market against E. amylovora. Comparative genome analysis in this study has revealed that PhiEaH1 not only differs from the 10 formerly sequenced E. amylovora bacteriophages belonging to other phage families, but also from PhiEaH2. Sequencing of more Siphoviridae phage genomes might reveal further diversity, providing opportunities for the development of even more effective biological control agents, phage cocktails against Erwinia fire blight disease of commercial fruit crops.

Normal exon copy number of the GLI2 and GLI3 genes in patients with esophageal atresia.

PubMed

Bednarczyk, D; Smigiel, R; Patkowski, D; Laczmanska, I; Lebioda, A; Laczmanski, L; Sasiadek, M M

2013-01-01

Esophageal atresia (EA) is a congenital developmental defect of the alimentary tract concerning the interruption of the esophagus with or without connection to the trachea. The incidence of EA is 1 in 3000-3500 of live-born infants, and occurs in both isolated and syndromic (in combination with abnormalities in other organ systems) forms. The molecular mechanisms underlying the development of EA are poorly understood. Knockout studies in mice indicate that genes like Sonic hedgehog, Gli2, and Gli3 play a role in the etiology of EA. These facts led us to hypothesize that Sonic hedgehog-GLI gene rearrangements are associated with EA in humans. To test this hypothesis, we screened patients with isolated and syndromic EA for GLI2 and/or GLI3 microrearrangements using methods to estimate the copy number (Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification, real-time polymerase chain reaction). To our best knowledge this is the first study assessing copy number of GLI2 and GLI3 genes in patients with EA. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

Development and Validation of a Risk Scale for Emergence Agitation After General Anesthesia in Children: A Prospective Observational Study.

PubMed

Hino, Maai; Mihara, Takahiro; Miyazaki, Saeko; Hijikata, Toshiyuki; Miwa, Takaaki; Goto, Takahisa; Ka, Koui

2017-08-01

Emergence agitation (EA) is a common complication in children after general anesthesia. The goal of this 2-phase study was (1) to develop a predictive model (EA risk scale) for the incidence of EA in children receiving sevoflurane anesthesia by performing a retrospective analysis of data from our previous study (phase 1) and (2) to determine the validity of the EA risk scale in a prospective observational cohort study (phase 2). Using data collected from 120 patients in our previous study, logistic regression analysis was used to predict the incidence of EA in phase 1. The optimal combination of the predictors was determined by a stepwise selection procedure using Akaike information criterion. The β-coefficient for the selected predictors was calculated, and scores for predictors determined. The predictive ability of the EA risk scale was assessed by a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, and the area under the ROC curve (c-index) was calculated with a 95% confidence interval (CI). In phase 2, the validity of the EA risk scale was confirmed using another data set of 100 patients (who underwent minor surgery under general anesthesia). The ROC curve, the c-index, the best cutoff point, and the sensitivity and specificity at the point were calculated. In addition, we calculated the gray zone, which ranges between the two points where sensitivity and specificity, respectively, become 90%. In phase 1, the final model of the multivariable logistic regression analysis included the following 4 predictors: age (logarithm odds ratios [OR], -0.38; 95% CI, -0.81 to 0.00), Pediatric Anesthesia Behavior score (logarithm OR, 0.65; 95% CI, -0.09 to 1.40), anesthesia time (logarithm OR, 0.60; 95% CI, -0.18 to 1.19), and operative procedure (logarithm OR, 2.53; 95% CI, 1.30-3.75 for strabismus surgery and logarithm OR, 2.71; 95% CI, 0.99-4.45 for tonsillectomy). The EA risk scale included these 4 predictors and ranged from 1 to 23 points. In phase 2, the incidence of EA was 39%. The c-index of phase 1 was 0.84 (95% CI, 0.74-0.94), and the c-index of phase 2 was 0.81 (95% CI, 0.72-0.89). The best cutoff point for the EA risk scale was 11 (sensitivity = 87% and specificity = 61%). The gray zone ranged from 10 to 13 points, and included 38% of patients. We developed and validated an EA risk scale for children receiving sevoflurane anesthesia. In our validation cohort, this scale has excellent predictive performance (c-index > 0.8). The EA risk scale could be used to predict EA in children and adopt a preventive strategy for those at high risk. This score-based preventive approach should be studied prospectively to assess the safety and efficacy of such a strategy.

Uncovering the factors that can support and impede post-disaster EIA practice in developing countries: The case of Aceh Province, Indonesia

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

Gore, Tom; Fischer, Thomas B., E-mail: fischer@liverpool.ac.uk

The close relationship between environmental degradation and the occurrence and severity of disaster events has in recent years raised the profile of environmental assessment (EA) in the disaster management field. EA has been identified as a potentially supportive tool in the global effort to reduce disaster risk. As a component of this, attention has been brought specifically to the importance of the application of EA in the aftermath of disaster events in order to help prevent recurrence and promote sustainability. At the same time, however, it has also been recognised that post-disaster environments may be unfavourable to such practices. Lookingmore » at the practice of environmental impact assessment (EIA), this paper reports on a study which sought to identify more specifically the factors which can both support and hinder such practice following disaster events in a developing country context. Analysing the situation in Aceh Province, Indonesia, after the impact of two tsunamigenic earthquakes in late 2004 and early 2005, it is concluded that if EIA is to have a central role in the post-disaster period, pre-disaster preparation could be a key. -- Highlights: • Close relationship between environmental degradation and occurrence/severity of disaster events has raised profile of EA. • EA as a potentially supportive tool in the global effort to reduce disaster risk • Application of EA in the aftermath of disaster events to help prevent recurrence and promote sustainability • The paper looks at factors which can both support and hinder EA following disaster events in a developing country context. • We analyse the situation in Aceh Province, Indonesia, after the impact of two tsunamigenic earthquakes in 2004 and 2005.« less

Evaluating Investment in Missouri River Restoration: The Missouri River Effects Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jacobson, R. B.; Fischenich, C. J.; Buenau, K. E.

2014-12-01

In excess of $700 million has been spent over the last 10 years on restoration of the Missouri River. During this time, restoration efforts have focused progressively on avoidance of jeopardy for three threatened or endangered species: interior least tern (Sternula antillarum), piping plover (Charadrius melodus), and the pallid sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus). In 2013, the US Army Corps of Engineers, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Missouri River stakeholders (through the Missouri River Recovery Implementation Committee) commissioned an Effects Analysis (EA; Murphy and Weiland, 2011) to evaluate the effects of this effort on the three species' populations and to project effects of future restoration. The EA includes synthesis of existing abiotic and biotic scientific information relating to species population processes, distributions, and habitat needs, as well as development of conceptual and quantitative models linking river context to its management and to species' responses. The EA also includes design of the next generation of hypothesis-driven science to support adaptive management of the species and the river. The Missouri River EA faces the challenge of evaluating how management of North America's largest reservoir storage system, 600 km of non-channelized mainstem, and nearly 1,200 km of channelized mainstem contribute to species' population dynamics. To support EA needs, the US Army Corps of Engineers is developing a new generation of reservoir simulation and routing models for the Missouri River basin, coupled with components to evaluate ecological and socio-economic metrics. The EA teams are developing coordinated models relating management to functional habitats and species' responses. A particular challenge faced by the EA is communicating the very different uncertainties in population dynamics between well-documented birds and the enigmatic fish, and the implications of this disparity in decision making, implementation, and adaptive management strategies.

Age and Gender Effects on Wideband Absorbance in Adults With Normal Outer and Middle Ear Function.

PubMed

Mazlan, Rafidah; Kei, Joseph; Ya, Cheng Li; Yusof, Wan Nur Hanim Mohd; Saim, Lokman; Zhao, Fei

2015-08-01

This study examined the effects of age and gender on wideband energy absorbance in adults with normal middle ear function. Forty young adults (14 men, 26 women, aged 20-38 years), 31 middle-aged adults (16 men, 15 women, aged 42-64 years), and 30 older adults (20 men, 10 women, aged 65-82 years) were assessed. Energy absorbance (EA) data were collected at 30 frequencies using a prototype commercial instrument developed by Interacoustics. Results showed that the young adult group had significantly lower EA (between 400 and 560 Hz) than the middle-aged group. However, the middle-aged group showed significantly lower EA (between 2240 and 5040 Hz) than the young adult group. In addition, the older adult group had significantly lower EA than the young adult group (between 2520 and 5040 Hz). No significant difference in EA was found at any frequency between middle-aged and older adults. Across age groups, gender differences were found with men having significantly higher EA values than women at lower frequencies, whereas women had significantly higher EA at higher frequencies. This study provides evidence of the influence of gender and age on EA in adults with normal outer and middle ear function. These findings support the importance of establishing age- and gender-specific EA norms for the adult population.

Chemical composition and biological activity of star anise Illicium verum extracts against maize weevil, Sitophilus zeamais adults

PubMed Central

Wei, Linlin; Hua, Rimao; Li, Maoye; Huang, Yanzhang; Li, Shiguang; He, Yujie; Shen, Zonghai

2014-01-01

Abstract This study aims to develop eco-friendly botanical pesticides. Dried fruits of star anise ( Illicium verum Hook.f. (Austrobaileyales: Schisandraceae)) were extracted with methyl alcohol (MA), ethyl acetate (EA), and petroleum ether (PE) at 25°C. The constituents were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and the repellency and contact toxicity of the extracts against Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) adults were tested. Forty-four compounds, whose concentrations were more than 0.2%, were separated and identified from the MA, EA, and PE extracts. The extraction yields of trans-anethole, the most abundant biologically active compound in I. verum , were 9.7%, 7.5%, and 10.1% in the MA, EA, and PE extracts, respectively. Repellency increased with increasing extract dose. The average repellency rate of the extracts against S. zeamais adults peaked at 125.79 µg/cm 2 72 hr after treatment. The percentage repellency of the EA extract reached 76.9%, making it a class IV repellent. Contact toxicity assays showed average mortalities of 85.4% (MA), 94.5% (EA), and 91.1% (PE). The EA extract had the lowest median lethal dose, at 21.2 µg/cm 2 72 hr after treatment. The results suggest that I. verum fruit extracts and trans-anethole can potentially be developed as a grain protectant to control stored-product insect pests. Other active constituents in the EA extract merit further research. PMID:25368036

Association between polymorphisms in cancer-related genes and early onset of esophageal adenocarcinoma.

PubMed

Wu, I-Chen; Zhao, Yang; Zhai, Rihong; Liu, Geoffrey; Ter-Minassian, Monica; Asomaning, Kofi; Su, Li; Liu, Chen-Yu; Chen, Feng; Kulke, Matthew H; Heist, Rebecca S; Christiani, David C

2011-04-01

There is an increasing incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA) among younger people in the western populations. However, the association between genetic polymorphisms and the age of EA onset is unclear. In this study, 1330 functional/tagging single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 354 cancer-related genes were genotyped in 335 white EA patients. Twenty important SNPs that have the highest importance scores and lowest classification error rate were identified by the random forest algorithm to be associated with early onset of EA (age ≤ 55 years). Subsequent logistic regression analysis indicated that 10 SNPs (rs2070744 of NOS3, rs720321 of BCL2, rs17757541 of BCL2, rs11775256 of TNFRSF10A, rs1035142 of CASP8, rs2236302 of MMP14, rs4740363 of ABL1, rs696217 of GHRL, rs2445762 of CYP19A1, and rs11941492 of VEGFR2/KDR) were significantly associated with early onset of EA (≤55 vs >55 years, all P < .05 after adjusting for co-variates and false discovery rate). Among them, five SNPs in the NOS3, BCL2, TNFRSF10A, and CASP8 genes were known to be involved in apoptosis processes. In Kaplan-Meier analyses, rs2070744 of NOS3, rs720321 of BCL2, and rs1035142 of CASP8 were also significantly associated with early onset of EA. Moreover, there was a higher risk of developing EA at a younger age when one had more risk genotypes. In conclusion, polymorphisms in cancer-related genes, especially those in the apoptotic pathway, play an important role in the development of younger-aged EA in a dose-response manner.

Reconceptualizing public participation in environmental assessment as EA civics

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

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

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

Racial discrimination mediates race differences in sleep problems: A longitudinal analysis.

PubMed

Fuller-Rowell, Thomas E; Curtis, David S; El-Sheikh, Mona; Duke, Adrienne M; Ryff, Carol D; Zgierska, Aleksandra E

2017-04-01

To examine changes in sleep problems over a 1.5-year period among Black or African American (AA) and White or European American (EA) college students and to consider the role of racial discrimination as a mediator of race differences in sleep problems over time. Students attending a large, predominantly White university (N = 133, 41% AA, 57% female, mean age = 18.8, SD = .90) reported on habitual sleep characteristics and experiences of racial discrimination at baseline and follow-up assessments. A latent variable for sleep problems was assessed from reports of sleep latency, duration, efficiency, and quality. Longitudinal models were used to examine race differences in sleep problems over time and the mediating role of perceived discrimination. Covariates included age, gender, parent education, parent income, body mass index, self-rated physical health, and depressive symptoms. Each of the individual sleep measures was also examined separately, and sensitivity analyses were conducted using alternative formulations of the sleep problems measure. AAs had greater increases in sleep problems than EAs. Perceived discrimination was also associated with increases in sleep problems over time and mediated racial disparities in sleep. This pattern of findings was similar when each of the sleep indicators was considered separately and held with alternative sleep problems measures. The findings highlight the importance of racial disparities in sleep across the college years and suggest that experiences of discrimination contribute to group disparities. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Power and environmental assessment: Introduction to the special issue

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

Cashmore, Matthew, E-mail: cashmore@plan.aau.dk; Richardson, Tim

2013-02-15

The significance of politics and power dynamics has long been recognised in environmental assessment (EA) research, but there has not been sustained attention to power, either theoretically or empirically. The aim of this special issue is to encourage the EA community to engage more consistently with the issue of power. The introduction represents a ground-clearing exercise intended to clarify the terms of the debate about power in the EA field, and to contribute to the development of a research agenda. Research trends in the field are outlined, and potential analytic and normative lines of inquiry are identified. The contributions tomore » this special issue represent contrasting conceptual and methodological approaches that navigate the analytical and normative terrain of power dynamics in EA. Together, they demonstrate that power cannot be removed from EA policy or practices, and is a necessary research focus for the development of the field. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Introduces the themed section on power Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Provides an overview of the papers in the themed section Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Identifies research trends and directions for future research.« less

Environmental assessment in slum improvement programs: Some evidence from a study on infrastructure projects in two Dhaka slums

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

Chowdhury, Farhat Jahan; Amin, A.T.M. Nurul

2006-08-15

This paper reports findings from a study on slum improvement projects to show the difference that environmental assessment (EA) can make in such interventions and to suggest mechanisms for its integration into such projects. The findings are based on a field survey that was carried out in two slums of Dhaka where infrastructure projects were implemented. In one slum, the EA process was considered in designing and locating infrastructure and in the other it was not. The survey results traced the severe problems that existed in both slums before the implementation of infrastructure improvement projects and reveal that after themore » intervention the situation has considerably improved in the slum where EA was conducted. In contrast, some problems still persist in the other slum where EA was not considered. To make it worse, the newly built infrastructures have even given rise to a set of new problems. In order to avoid such negative outcomes from development interventions, the paper finally develops the mechanism for integration of EA into slum improvement project.« less

Protective effects of ellagic acid and ozone on rat ovaries with an ischemia/reperfusion injury.

PubMed

Sayar, Ilyas; Bicer, Senol; Gursul, Cebrail; Gürbüzel, Mehmet; Peker, Kemal; Işik, Arda

2016-01-01

This study investigated the effects of the antioxidant agents, ozone (O) and ellagic acid (EA), on ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injuries developed from an ovarian torsion-detorsion model. Arteries in the left ovaries of rats were clamped for two hours to achieve torsion, and then the clamps were removed for a two-hour detorsion period. Thirty-five female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups: control: administered only with anesthesia, rats were not subjected to torsion-detorsion; I/R: subjected to torsion and subsequent detorsion, without administering any treatment agent; and I/R + EA, I/R + O and I/R + O + EA: subjected to torsion and detorsion processes and administered with EA, O or EA + O at the 75th minute of torsion. The rats were then sacrificed under general anesthesia and the ovarian tissues were excised. The tissues were homogenized and levels of glutathione reductase, catalase, superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde (MDA) were analyzed. Tissue damage was evaluated in terms of histopathological parameters, such as hemorrhage, congestion, edema and inflammation. Antioxidant enzyme activity and MDA levels in the ovary tissue increased in the I/R group and decreased in the O, EA and O + EA groups (P < 0.05). Histopathological examination revealed that tissue damage in the O, EA and O + EA groups decreased in comparison with the I/R group (P < 0.05). These biochemical and histopathological findings suggest that EA and O are effective against ovarian I/R injury. © 2015 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Detection of elder abuse: Exploring the potential use of the Elder Abuse Suspicion Index© by law enforcement in the field.

PubMed

Kurkurina, Elina; Lange, Brittany C L; Lama, Sonam D; Burk-Leaver, Erin; Yaffe, Mark J; Monin, Joan K; Humphries, Debbie

2018-01-01

There are no known instruments to aid law enforcement officers in the assessment of elder abuse (EA), despite officers' contact with older adults. This study aimed to identify: 1) officers' perceptions and knowledge of EA, 2) barriers in detecting EA in the field, 3) characteristics officers value in a detection tool, and to explore 4) the potential for officers to use the Elder Abuse Suspicion Index (EASI)©. Data was collected from 69 Connecticut officers who confirmed that barriers to effectively detecting EA included a lack of EA detection instruments, as well as a lack of training on warning signs and risk factors. Officers indicated that the important elements of a desirable tool for helping to detect EA included ease of use, clear instructions, and information on follow-up resources. Approximately 80% of respondents could see themselves using the EASI © in the field, and a modified version has been developed for this purpose.

Most plastic products release estrogenic chemicals: a potential health problem that can be solved.

PubMed

Yang, Chun Z; Yaniger, Stuart I; Jordan, V Craig; Klein, Daniel J; Bittner, George D

2011-07-01

Chemicals having estrogenic activity (EA) reportedly cause many adverse health effects, especially at low (picomolar to nanomolar) doses in fetal and juvenile mammals. We sought to determine whether commercially available plastic resins and products, including baby bottles and other products advertised as bisphenol A (BPA) free, release chemicals having EA. We used a roboticized MCF-7 cell proliferation assay, which is very sensitive, accurate, and repeatable, to quantify the EA of chemicals leached into saline or ethanol extracts of many types of commercially available plastic materials, some exposed to common-use stresses (microwaving, ultraviolet radiation, and/or autoclaving). Almost all commercially available plastic products we sampled--independent of the type of resin, product, or retail source--leached chemicals having reliably detectable EA, including those advertised as BPA free. In some cases, BPA-free products released chemicals having more EA than did BPA-containing products. Many plastic products are mischaracterized as being EA free if extracted with only one solvent and not exposed to common-use stresses. However, we can identify existing compounds, or have developed, monomers, additives, or processing agents that have no detectable EA and have similar costs. Hence, our data suggest that EA-free plastic products exposed to common-use stresses and extracted by saline and ethanol solvents could be cost-effectively made on a commercial scale and thereby eliminate a potential health risk posed by most currently available plastic products that leach chemicals having EA into food products.

Most Plastic Products Release Estrogenic Chemicals: A Potential Health Problem That Can Be Solved

PubMed Central

Yang, Chun Z.; Yaniger, Stuart I.; Jordan, V. Craig; Klein, Daniel J.

2011-01-01

Background: Chemicals having estrogenic activity (EA) reportedly cause many adverse health effects, especially at low (picomolar to nanomolar) doses in fetal and juvenile mammals. Objectives: We sought to determine whether commercially available plastic resins and products, including baby bottles and other products advertised as bisphenol A (BPA) free, release chemicals having EA. Methods: We used a roboticized MCF-7 cell proliferation assay, which is very sensitive, accurate, and repeatable, to quantify the EA of chemicals leached into saline or ethanol extracts of many types of commercially available plastic materials, some exposed to common-use stresses (microwaving, ultraviolet radiation, and/or autoclaving). Results: Almost all commercially available plastic products we sampled—independent of the type of resin, product, or retail source—leached chemicals having reliably detectable EA, including those advertised as BPA free. In some cases, BPA-free products released chemicals having more EA than did BPA-containing products. Conclusions: Many plastic products are mischaracterized as being EA free if extracted with only one solvent and not exposed to common-use stresses. However, we can identify existing compounds, or have developed, monomers, additives, or processing agents that have no detectable EA and have similar costs. Hence, our data suggest that EA-free plastic products exposed to common-use stresses and extracted by saline and ethanol solvents could be cost-effectively made on a commercial scale and thereby eliminate a potential health risk posed by most currently available plastic products that leach chemicals having EA into food products. PMID:21367689

Infant Massage and Quality of Early Mother–Infant Interactions: Are There Associations with Maternal Psychological Wellbeing, Marital Quality, and Social Support?

PubMed Central

Porreca, Alessio; Parolin, Micol; Bozza, Giusy; Freato, Susanna; Simonelli, Alessandra

2017-01-01

Infant massage programs have proved to be effective in enhancing post-natal development of highly risk infants, such as preterm newborns and drug or HIV exposed children. Less studies have focused on the role of infant massage in supporting the co-construction of early adult–child relationships. In line with this lack of literature, the present paper reports on a pilot study aimed at investigating longitudinally the quality of mother–child interactions, with specific reference to emotional availability (EA), in a group of mother–child pairs involved in infant massage classes. Moreover, associations between mother–child EA, maternal wellbeing, marital adjustment, and social support were also investigated, with the hypothesis to find a link between low maternal distress, high couple satisfaction and high perceived support and interactions of better quality in the dyads. The study involved 20 mothers and their children, aged between 2 and 7 months, who participated to infant massage classes. The assessment took place at three stages: at the beginning of massage course, at the end of it and at 1-month follow-up. At the first stage of assessment self-report questionnaires were administered to examine the presence of maternal psychiatric symptoms (SCL-90-R), perceived social support (MSPSS), and marital adjustment (Dyadic Adjustment Scale); dyadic interactions were observed and rated with the Emotional Availability Scales (Biringen, 2008) at each stage of data collection. The results showed a significant improvement in the quality of mother–child interactions, between the first and the last evaluation, parallel to the unfolding of the massage program, highlighting a general increase in maternal and child’s EA. The presence of maternal psychological distress resulted associated with less optimal mother–child emotional exchanges, while the hypothesis regarding couple satisfaction and social support influence were not confirmed. These preliminary results, if replicated, seem to sustain the usefulness of infant massage and the importance of focusing on early mother–infant interactions. PMID:28144222

Infant Massage and Quality of Early Mother-Infant Interactions: Are There Associations with Maternal Psychological Wellbeing, Marital Quality, and Social Support?

PubMed

Porreca, Alessio; Parolin, Micol; Bozza, Giusy; Freato, Susanna; Simonelli, Alessandra

2016-01-01

Infant massage programs have proved to be effective in enhancing post-natal development of highly risk infants, such as preterm newborns and drug or HIV exposed children. Less studies have focused on the role of infant massage in supporting the co-construction of early adult-child relationships. In line with this lack of literature, the present paper reports on a pilot study aimed at investigating longitudinally the quality of mother-child interactions, with specific reference to emotional availability (EA), in a group of mother-child pairs involved in infant massage classes. Moreover, associations between mother-child EA, maternal wellbeing, marital adjustment, and social support were also investigated, with the hypothesis to find a link between low maternal distress, high couple satisfaction and high perceived support and interactions of better quality in the dyads. The study involved 20 mothers and their children, aged between 2 and 7 months, who participated to infant massage classes. The assessment took place at three stages: at the beginning of massage course, at the end of it and at 1-month follow-up. At the first stage of assessment self-report questionnaires were administered to examine the presence of maternal psychiatric symptoms (SCL-90-R), perceived social support (MSPSS), and marital adjustment (Dyadic Adjustment Scale); dyadic interactions were observed and rated with the Emotional Availability Scales (Biringen, 2008) at each stage of data collection. The results showed a significant improvement in the quality of mother-child interactions, between the first and the last evaluation, parallel to the unfolding of the massage program, highlighting a general increase in maternal and child's EA. The presence of maternal psychological distress resulted associated with less optimal mother-child emotional exchanges, while the hypothesis regarding couple satisfaction and social support influence were not confirmed. These preliminary results, if replicated, seem to sustain the usefulness of infant massage and the importance of focusing on early mother-infant interactions.

A simulation study of harmonics regeneration in noise reduction for electric and acoustic stimulation.

PubMed

Hu, Yi

2010-05-01

Recent research results show that combined electric and acoustic stimulation (EAS) significantly improves speech recognition in noise, and it is generally established that access to the improved F0 representation of target speech, along with the glimpse cues, provide the EAS benefits. Under noisy listening conditions, noise signals degrade these important cues by introducing undesired temporal-frequency components and corrupting harmonics structure. In this study, the potential of combining noise reduction and harmonics regeneration techniques was investigated to further improve speech intelligibility in noise by providing improved beneficial cues for EAS. Three hypotheses were tested: (1) noise reduction methods can improve speech intelligibility in noise for EAS; (2) harmonics regeneration after noise reduction can further improve speech intelligibility in noise for EAS; and (3) harmonics sideband constraints in frequency domain (or equivalently, amplitude modulation in temporal domain), even deterministic ones, can provide additional benefits. Test results demonstrate that combining noise reduction and harmonics regeneration can significantly improve speech recognition in noise for EAS, and it is also beneficial to preserve the harmonics sidebands under adverse listening conditions. This finding warrants further work into the development of algorithms that regenerate harmonics and the related sidebands for EAS processing under noisy conditions.

The ethyl acetate fraction of corn silk exhibits dual antioxidant and anti-glycation activities and protects insulin-secreting cells from glucotoxicity.

PubMed

Chang, Chia-Chuan; Yuan, Wei; Roan, Hsiao-Yuh; Chang, Jia-Ling; Huang, Hsiu-Chen; Lee, Yu-Ching; Tsay, Huey Jen; Liu, Hui-Kang

2016-11-03

In this study, we aimed to develop a Stigmata Maydis (corn silk) fraction with dual bio-activities against oxidative stress and protein glycation to protect β-cells from diabetes-induced failure. Corn silk fractions were prepared by partition and chemically characterised by thin-layer chromatography. Free radical scavenging assay, glycation assay, and cell-based viability test (neutral red) were employed to decide the best fraction. Cell death analysis was executed by annexin V/ Propidium iodide staining. Cell proliferation was measured by WST-1. Finally, β-cell function was evaluated by β-cell marker gene expression (RT-PCR) and acute insulin secretion test. Four corn silk fractions were prepared from an ethanolic crude extract of corn silk. In vitro assays indicate ethyl acetate fraction (YMS-EA) was the most potent fraction. YMS-EA also attenuated the hydrogen peroxide- or methylglyoxal-induced induction of reactive oxygen species, reduction of cell viability, and inhibition of cell proliferation. However, YMS-EA was unable to prevent hydrogen peroxide-induced apoptosis or advanced glycation end-products-induced toxicity. Under hyperglycemic conditions, YMS-EA effectively reduced ROS levels, improved mRNA expression of insulin, glucokinase, and PDX-1, and enhanced glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. The similarity of bioactivities among apigenin, luteolin, and YMS-EA indicated that dual activities of YMS-EA might be derived from those compounds. We concluded that YMS-EA fraction could be developed as a preventive food agent against the glucotoxicity to β-cells in Type 2 diabetes.

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

PubMed

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

2017-10-01

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

Extending enterprise architecture modelling with business goals and requirements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Engelsman, Wilco; Quartel, Dick; Jonkers, Henk; van Sinderen, Marten

2011-02-01

The methods for enterprise architecture (EA), such as The Open Group Architecture Framework, acknowledge the importance of requirements modelling in the development of EAs. Modelling support is needed to specify, document, communicate and reason about goals and requirements. The current modelling techniques for EA focus on the products, services, processes and applications of an enterprise. In addition, techniques may be provided to describe structured requirements lists and use cases. Little support is available however for modelling the underlying motivation of EAs in terms of stakeholder concerns and the high-level goals that address these concerns. This article describes a language that supports the modelling of this motivation. The definition of the language is based on existing work on high-level goal and requirements modelling and is aligned with an existing standard for enterprise modelling: the ArchiMate language. Furthermore, the article illustrates how EA can benefit from analysis techniques from the requirements engineering domain.

Use of electroacupuncture and transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation in reproductive medicine: a group consensus.

PubMed

Qu, Fan; Li, Rong; Sun, Wei; Lin, Ge; Zhang, Rong; Yang, Jing; Tian, Li; Xing, Guo-Gang; Jiang, Hui; Gong, Fei; Liang, Xiao-Yan; Meng, Yan; Liu, Jia-Yin; Zhou, Li-Ying; Wang, Shu-Yu; Wu, Yan; He, Yi-Jing; Ye, Jia-Yu; Han, Song-Ping; Han, Ji-Sheng

With the rapid development of assisted reproductive technology, various reproductive disorders have been effectively addressed. Acupuncture-like therapies, including electroacupuncture (EA) and transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS), become more popular world-wide. Increasing evidence has demonstrated that EA and TEAS are effective in treating gynecological disorders, especially infertility. This present paper describes how to select acupoints for the treatment of infertility from the view of theories of traditional Chinese medicine and how to determine critical parameters of electric pulses of EA/TEAS based on results from animal and clinical studies. It summarizes the principles of clinical application of EA/TEAS in treating various kinds of reproductive disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), pain induced by oocyte retrieval, diminished ovarian reserve, embryo transfer, and oligospermia/ asthenospermia. The possible underlying mechanisms mediating the therapeutic effects of EA/TEAS in reproductive medicine are also examined.

Ellagic Acid: A Logical Lead for Drug Development?

PubMed

Shakeri, Abolfazl; Zirak, Mohammad Reza; Sahebkar, Amirhossein

2018-01-01

Naturally occurring polyphenols are the subject of increasing attention due to their potent antioxidant activity and their marked effects on the prevention of various oxidative stress-associated diseases such as cancer. Ellagic acid (EA) is an herbal polyphenol that is structurally a condensed dimer of gallic acid. This review aims to provide a comprehensive and updated overview on the biological activities of EA and potential therapeutic applications. EA is found in fruits and nuts, either in the combined form with hexahydroxydiphenic acid or in the bound form (ellagitannins). EA exhibits many biological properties such as antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anticancer and apoptosis-inducing activities. These biological and pharmacological properties are relevant to the treatment of several human diseases. Owing to its multiple mechanisms of action, EA represents a potential therapeutic agent against human diseases particularly cancer. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Turbopump Performance Improved by Evolutionary Algorithms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oyama, Akira; Liou, Meng-Sing

2002-01-01

The development of design optimization technology for turbomachinery has been initiated using the multiobjective evolutionary algorithm under NASA's Intelligent Synthesis Environment and Revolutionary Aeropropulsion Concepts programs. As an alternative to the traditional gradient-based methods, evolutionary algorithms (EA's) are emergent design-optimization algorithms modeled after the mechanisms found in natural evolution. EA's search from multiple points, instead of moving from a single point. In addition, they require no derivatives or gradients of the objective function, leading to robustness and simplicity in coupling any evaluation codes. Parallel efficiency also becomes very high by using a simple master-slave concept for function evaluations, since such evaluations often consume the most CPU time, such as computational fluid dynamics. Application of EA's to multiobjective design problems is also straightforward because EA's maintain a population of design candidates in parallel. Because of these advantages, EA's are a unique and attractive approach to real-world design optimization problems.

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

Gazzola, Paola, E-mail: Paola.Gazzola@ncl.ac.uk

The issue of mainstreaming has witnessed a revival over the last few years, not least because the latest financial crisis has triggered a renewed enthusiasm and a remarkable comeback amongst policy-making and environmental appraisal (EA) communities. Traditionally, environmental mainstreaming is linked to ideas of (environmental) integration and to the ‘greening’ of public policies. Yet, more recent mainstreaming efforts are building on the idea that the achievement of economic growth and of social well-being is not only dependent upon the protection of the environment, but on the fact that the environment should be valued as a source of goods and amore » provider of services, as well. In this context and despite the many shortcomings that EA has experienced as a mainstreaming tool over the last two decades, calls for EA to engage with ecosystem services and incorporate pricing valuations in its approach to mainstreaming are emerging, raising questions about the role and purpose of EA as an environmental mainstreaming tool. This paper aims to reflect on the role of EA as a mainstreaming tool, in terms of the extent to which it is mainstreaming the environment into policies for sustainable development and changing ‘the mainstream’ by breaking down the false dichotomy of environment and (economic) development. If mainstreaming through EA was to incorporate both greening and pricing logics, could EA be more effective in reframing the environment and development as correlated variables rather than competing variables? -- Highlights: ► Mainstreaming is witnessing a revival over the last few years and a comeback amongst environmental appraisal communities. ► Mainstreaming efforts through environmental appraisal have failed to challenge the deeply rooted belief in economic growth. ► Recent mainstreaming efforts are incorporated in “green deals” following ecological modernisation discourses. ► Environmental appraisal is urged to embrace ecosystem service approaches prompting a rethink of its advocacy role and purpose.« less

Possible ethnic differences in plasma homocysteine levels associated with coronary artery disease between south Asian and east Asian immigrants.

PubMed

Senaratne, M P; MacDonald, K; De Silva, D

2001-11-01

Hyperhomocysteinemia has been identified as a risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). South Asians appear to have a high incidence of CAD, while East Asians have a very low incidence. The present study was undertaken because the relative association of plasma homocysteine levels (PH) with CAD in South Asians (SA = Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan) and East Asians (EA = Chinese, Japanese) is not known. Fasting PH were drawn on all patients with CAD of SA (age 62.4+/-1.1 years, 72 men, 14 women) and EA (age 61.8+/-3.0 years, 13 men, 4 women) descent. These were compared with PH available from Caucasian (CA) patients (age 61.1+/-1.1 years, 89 men, 17 women) with CAD. The PH in SA, EA, and CA patients were 11.0+/-0.5, 7.6+/-0.5, and 10.8+/-0.6 micromol/l, respectively (p<0.001 between EA and SA/CA). Percentages of SA, EA, and CA with elevated PH (> 12.0 micromol/l) were 33.7, 5.9, and 28.2%, respectively. There were no significant differences in the lipid subfractions between the SA and EA group. History of smoking was significantly higher in the EA (52.9 vs. 26.2%), while hypertension and diabetes mellitus had similar prevalences. Significant differences in PH of SA versus EA patients with CAD exist. The relative contribution of homocysteine in the development of CAD appears to be less in EA immigrants. In contrast, the association between CAD and PH in SA immigrants appears to be similar to that of Caucasians.

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

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-05-25

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

Protection against mosquito vectors Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus using a novel insect repellent, ethyl anthranilate.

PubMed

Islam, Johirul; Zaman, Kamaruz; Tyagi, Varun; Duarah, Sanjukta; Dhiman, Sunil; Chattopadhyay, Pronobesh

2017-10-01

Growing concern on the application of synthetic mosquito repellents in the recent years has instigated the identification and development of better alternatives to control different mosquito-borne diseases. In view of above, present investigation evaluates the repellent activity of ethyl anthranilate (EA), a non-toxic, FDA approved volatile food additive against three known mosquito vectors namely, Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus under laboratory conditions following standard protocols. Three concentration levels (2%, 5% and 10% w/v) of EA were tested against all the three selected mosquito species employing K & D module and arm-in-cage method to determine the effective dose (ED 50 ) and complete protection time (CPT), respectively. The repellent activity of EA was further investigated by modified arm-in-cage method to determine the protection over extended spatial ranges against all mosquito species. All behavioural situations were compared with the well-documented repellent N,N-diethylphenyl acetamide (DEPA) as a positive control. The findings demonstrated that EA exhibited significant repellent activity against all the three mosquitoes species. The ED 50 values of EA, against Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus were found to be 0.96%, 5.4% and 3.6% w/v, respectively. At the concentration of 10% w/v, it provided CPTs of 60, 60 and 30min, respectively, against Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes. Again in spatial repellency evaluation, EA was found to be extremely effective in repelling all the three tested species of mosquitoes. Ethyl anthranilate provided comparable results to standard repellent DEPA during the study. Results have concluded that the currently evaluated chemical, EA has potential repellent activity against some well established mosquito vectors. The study emphasizes that repellent activity of EA could be exploited for developing effective, eco-friendly, acceptable and safer alternative to the existing harmful repellents for personal protection against different hematophagous mosquito species. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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

PubMed

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

1985-11-01

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

Chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease shares genetic background with esophageal adenocarcinoma and Barrett's esophagus

PubMed Central

Gharahkhani, Puya; Tung, Joyce; Hinds, David; Mishra, Aniket; Vaughan, Thomas L.; Whiteman, David C.; MacGregor, Stuart

2016-01-01

Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA) is a rapidly fatal cancer with rising incidence in the developed world. Most EAs arise in a metaplastic epithelium, Barrett's esophagus (BE), which is associated with greatly increased risk of EA. One of the key risk factors for both BE and EA is chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This study used the linkage disequilibrium (LD) score regression and genomic profile risk scoring approaches to investigate the contribution of multiple common single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to the risk of GERD, and the extent of genetic overlap between GERD and BE or EA. Using LD score regression, we estimated an overall phenotypic variance of 7% (95% CI 3–11%) for GERD explained by all the genotyped SNPs. A genetic correlation of 77% (s.e. = 24%, P = 0.0012) between GERD and BE and 88% between GERD and EA (s.e. = 25%, P = 0.0004) was estimated using the LD score regression approach. Results from the genomic profile risk scoring approach, as a robustness check, were broadly similar to those from the LD score regression. This study provides the first evidence for a polygenic basis for GERD and supports for a polygenic overlap between GERD and BE, and GERD and EA. PMID:26704365

Management of Pediatric Perforated Appendicitis: Comparing Outcomes Using Early Appendectomy Versus Solely Medical Management.

PubMed

Bonadio, William; Rebillot, Katie; Ukwuoma, Onyinyechi; Saracino, Christine; Iskhakov, Arthur

2017-10-01

There is controversy regarding whether children with perforated appendicitis should receive early appendectomy (EA) versus medical management (MM) with antibiotics and delayed interval appendectomy. The objective of this study was to compare outcomes of children with perforated appendicitis who receive EA versus MM. Case review of consecutive children <18 years of age with perforated appendicitis who received either EA or MM during an 8-year period. Criteria for hospital discharge included patient being afebrile for at least 24 hours, pain-free and able to tolerate oral intake. Of 203 patients diagnosed with perforated appendicitis, 122 received EA and 81 received MM. All received parenteral antibiotic therapy initiated in the emergency department and continued during hospitalization. There were no significant differences between groups in mean patient age, mean complete blood count total white blood cells count, gender distribution, rates of emergency department fever or rates of intra-abdominal infection (abscess or phlegmon) identified on admission. Compared with patients receiving MM, those receiving EA experienced significantly fewer (1) days of hospitalization, parenteral antibiotic therapy and in-hospital fever; (2) radiographic studies, percutaneous drainage procedures and placement of central venous catheters performed; (3) post admission intra-abdominal complications and (4) unscheduled repeat hospitalizations after hospital discharge. Only 1 EA-managed patient developed a postoperative wound infection. Children with perforated appendicitis who receive EA experience significantly less morbidity and complications versus those receiving MM. The theoretical concern for enhanced morbidity associated with EA management of perforated appendicitis is not supported by our analysis.

Implementation of the Port Hope Area Initiative Biophysical and Socioeconomic Environmental Assessment Follow-up Programs - 13209

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

Baba, Nina; Friedmann, Karyn; Groulx, Charles

2013-07-01

The Port Hope Initiative (PHAI) involves the cleanup of historic low-level radioactive waste in various locations throughout the communities of Port Hope and Clarington, Ontario, as well as the construction of two engineered aboveground mounds for safe long-term management. The PHAI is comprised of two major projects - the Port Hope Project and the Port Granby Project. An Environmental Assessment (EA) was undertaken for each project and as a result EA Follow-up Programs were developed and are being implemented addressing both biophysical and socioeconomic aspects. This paper provides insight on elements of the EA Follow-up Program development, and its implementation.more » (authors)« less

U.S. Air Force Operational Medicine: Using the Enterprise Estimating Supplies Program to Develop Materiel Solutions for the Mobile Aeromedical Staging Facility (FFQM1)

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-05-30

SPO2 EA 1 1 0.06 0.03 $186.25 0.06 0.03 $186.25 A 6515015308151 SENSOR OXYGEN MONITORING PEDIATRIC/SMALL ADULT REUSABLE SPO2 SEN EA 1 1 0.55 0.12...0.01 $2.52 0.01 0.01 $2.52 A 5810NCM071973 SECURE MODULE EA 1 1 5.00 0.12 $2,270.00 5.00 0.12 $2,270.00 A 6515015458866 SENSOR BLOOD GAS MONITORING...PHILIPS INFANT 1500MM LONG FOOT/HAND EA 1 1 0.55 0.12 $187.50 0.55 0.12 $187.50 A 6515015955694 SENSOR OXYGEN MONITORING ADULT 79"LG REUSABLE

Upregulation of mucin glycoprotein MUC1 in the progression to esophageal adenocarcinoma and therapeutic potential with a targeted photoactive antibody-drug conjugate

PubMed Central

Haidry, Rehan J.; Oukrif, Dahmane; Khan, Saif-U-Rehman; Puccio, Ignazio; Gandy, Michael; Reinert, Halla W.; Bloom, Ellie; Rashid, Mohammed; Yahioglu, Gokhan; Deonarain, Mahendra P.; Hamoudi, Rifat; Rodriguez-Justo, Manuel; Novelli, Marco R.; Lovat, Laurence B.

2017-01-01

Background Mucin glycoprotein 1 (MUC1) is a glycosylated transmembrane protein on epithelial cells. We investigate MUC1 as a therapeutic target in Barrett’s epithelium (BE) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA) and provide proof of concept for a light based therapy targeting MUC1. RESULTS MUC1 was present in 21% and 30% of significantly enriched pathways comparing BE and EA to squamous epithelium respectively. MUC1 gene expression was x2.3 and x2.2 higher in BE (p=<0.001) and EA (p=0.03). MUC1 immunohistochemical expression increased during progression to EA and followed tumor invasion. HuHMFG1 based photosensitive antibody drug conjugates (ADC) showed cell internalization, MUC1 selective and light-dependent cytotoxicity (p=0.0006) and superior toxicity over photosensitizer alone (p=0.0022). Methods Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) evaluated pathways during BE and EA development and quantified MUC1 gene expression. Immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry evaluated the anti-MUC1 antibody HuHMFG1 in esophageal cells of varying pathological grade. Confocal microscopy examined HuHMFG1 internalization and HuHMFG1 ADCs were created to deliver a MUC1 targeted phototoxic payload. Conclusions MUC1 is a promising target in EA. Molecular and light based targeting of MUC1 with a photosensitive ADC is effective in vitro and after development may enable treatment of locoregional tumors endoscopically. PMID:28212575

Effects of electroacupuncture combined with stem cell transplantation on anal sphincter injury-induced faecal incontinence in a rat model.

PubMed

Li, Xiaojia; Guo, Xiutian; Jin, Weiqi; Lu, Jingen

2018-03-08

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and acupuncture are known to mitigate tissue damage. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of combined electroacupuncture (EA) stimulation and BMSC injection in a rat model of anal sphincter injury-induced faecal incontinence (FI). 60 Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups: sham-operated control, FI, FI+EA, FI+BMSC, and FI+BMSC+EA. The anorectal tissues were collected on days 1, 3, 7 and 14. Repair of the injured anal sphincter was compared using haematoxylin and eosin (HE) and immunocytochemiscal analyses with sarcomeric α actinin. The expression of stromal cell derived factor-1 (SDF-1) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-3 (MCP-3) was detected by quantitative reverse transcription PCR to evaluate the effects of EA on the homing of BMSCs. The therapeutic effect of combined EA+BMSCs on damaged tissue was the strongest among all the groups as indicated by HE and immunohistochemical staining. The expression of SDF-1 and MCP-3 was significantly increased by combined EA and BMSC treatment when compared with the other groups (P=0.01 to P<0.05), suggesting promotive effects of EA on the homing of BMSCs. The combination of EA and BMSC transplantation effectively repaired the impaired anal sphincters. The underlying mechanism might be associated with apparent promotive effects of EA on the homing of BMSCs. Our study provides a theoretical basis for the development of a non-surgical treatment method for FI secondary to muscle impairment. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Innovative Electrostatic Adhesion Technologies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bryan, Tom; Macleod, Todd; Gagliano, Larry; Williams, Scott; McCoy, Brian

2015-01-01

Developing specialized Electro-Static grippers (commercially used in Semiconductor Manufacturing and in package handling) will allow gentle and secure Capture, Soft Docking, and Handling of a wide variety of materials and shapes (such as upper-stages, satellites, arrays, and possibly asteroids) without requiring physical features or cavities for a pincher or probe or using harpoons or nets. Combined with new rigid boom mechanisms or small agile chaser vehicles, flexible, high speed Electro-Static Grippers can enable compliant capture of spinning objects starting from a safe stand-off distance. Electroadhesion (EA) can enable lightweight, ultra-low-power, compliant attachment in space by using an electrostatic force to adhere similar and dissimilar surfaces. A typical EA enabled device is composed of compliant space-rated materials, such as copper-clad polyimide encapsulated by polymers. Attachment is induced by strong electrostatic forces between any substrate material, such as an exterior satellite panel and a compliant EA gripper pad surface. When alternate positive and negative charges are induced in adjacent planar electrodes in an EA surface, the electric fields set up opposite charges on the substrate and cause an electrostatic adhesion between the electrodes and the induced charges on the substrate. Since the electrodes and the polymer are compliant and can conform to uneven or rough surfaces, the electrodes can remain intimately close to the entire surface, enabling high clamping pressures. Clamping pressures of more than 3 N/cm2 in shear can be achieved on a variety of substrates with ultra-low holding power consumption (measured values are less than 20 microW/Newton weight held). A single EA surface geometry can be used to clamp both dielectric and conductive substrates, with slightly different physical mechanisms. Furthermore EA clamping requires no normal force be placed on the substrate, as conventional docking requires. Internally funded research and development has demonstrated that EA can function effectively in space, even in the presence of strong ultraviolet radiation, atomic oxygen, and free electrons. We created a test setup in an existing vacuum chamber to simulate low-Earth-orbit conditions. An EA mechanism was fabricated and installed in the chamber, instrumented, operated in a vacuum, and subjected to ultraviolet photons and free electrons generated by an in-chamber multipactor electron emitter. Extensions to EA that can add value include proximity and contact sensing and transverse motion or rotation, both of which could enhance docking or assembly applications. Possible next steps include development of targeted applications for ground investigation or on-orbit subsystem performance demonstrations using low cost access to space such as CubeSats.

Innovative Electrostatic Adhesion Technologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gagliano, L.; Bryan, T.; Williams, S.; McCoy, B.; MacLeod, T.

Developing specialized Electro-Static grippers (commercially used in Semiconductor Manufacturing and in package handling) will allow gentle and secure Capture, Soft Docking, and Handling of a wide variety of materials and shapes (such as upper-stages, satellites, arrays, and possibly asteroids) without requiring physical features or cavities for a pincher or probe or using harpoons or nets. Combined with new rigid boom mechanisms or small agile chaser vehicles, flexible, high speed Electro-Static Grippers can enable compliant capture of spinning objects starting from a safe stand-off distance. Electroadhesion (EA) can enable lightweight, ultra-low-power, compliant attachment in space by using an electrostatic force to adhere similar and dissimilar surfaces. A typical EA enabled device is composed of compliant space-rated materials, such as copper-clad polyimide encapsulated by polymers. Attachment is induced by strong electrostatic forces between any substrate material, such as an exterior satellite panel and a compliant EA surface. When alternate positive and negative charges are induced in adjacent planar electrodes in an EA surface, the electric fields set up opposite charges on the substrate and cause an electrostatic adhesion between the electrodes and the induced charges on the substrate. Since the electrodes and the polymer are compliant and can conform to uneven or rough surfaces, the electrodes can remain intimately close to the entire surface, enabling high clamping pressures. Clamping pressures of more than 3 N/cm2 in shear can be achieved on a variety of substrates with ultra-low holding power consumption (measured values are less than 20 microW/Newton weight held). A single EA surface geometry can be used to clamp both dielectric and conductive substrates, with slightly different physical mechanisms. Furthermore EA clamping requires no normal force be placed on the substrate, as conventional docking requires. Internally funded research and development has demonstrated that EA can function effectively in space, even in the presence of strong ultraviolet radiation, atomic oxygen, and free electrons. We created a test setup in an existing vacuum chamber to simulate low-Earth-orbit conditions. An EA mechanism was fabricated and installed in the chamber, instrumented, operated in a vacuum, and subjected to ultraviolet photons and free electrons generated by an in-chamber multipactor electron emitter. Extensions to EA that can add value include proximity and contact sensing and transverse motion or rotation, both of which could enhance docking or assembly applications. Possible next steps include development of targeted applications for ground investigation or on-orbit subsystem performance demonstrations using low cost access to space such as CubeSats.

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

PubMed

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

2016-03-01

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

Impact of Hypertension on Ventricular-Arterial Coupling and Regional Myocardial Work at Rest and during Isometric Exercise

PubMed Central

Kuznetsova, Tatiana; D’hooge, Jan; Kloch-Badelek, Malgorzata; Sakiewicz, Wojciech; Thijs, Lutgarde; Staessen, Jan A.

2013-01-01

Background To understand better the mechanism of left ventricular (LV) remodeling related to hypertension, it is important to evaluate LV function in relation to the changes in loading conditions. The aim of this study was to investigate changes in conventional ventricular-arterial coupling indexes, LV strain, and a new index reflecting regional myocardial work assessed noninvasively at rest and during isometric exercise in a random sample including participants with normal blood pressure and those with hypertension. Methods A total of 148 participants (53.4% women; mean age, 52.0 years; 39.2% with hypertension) underwent simultaneous echocardiographic and arterial data acquisition at rest and during increased afterload (handgrip exercise). End-systolic pressure was determined from the carotid pulse wave. Arterial elastance (Ea) and LV elastance (Ees) were calculated as end-systolic pressure/stroke volume and end-systolic pressure/end-systolic volume. Doppler tissue imaging and two-dimensional speckle tracking were used to derive LV longitudinal strain. Regional myocardial work (ejection work density [EWD]) was the area of the pressure-strain loop during ejection. Results At rest, with adjustments applied, Ees (3.06 vs 3.71 mmHg/mL,P = .0003), Ea/Ees (0.54 vs 0.47,P=.002) and EWD (670 vs 802 Pa/m2, P = .0001) differed significantly between participants with normal blood pressure and those with hypertension. During handgrip exercise, Ea and Ea/Ees significantly increased (P < .0001) in both groups. Doppler tissue imaging and two-dimensional LV strain decreased in participants with hypertension (P ≤ .008). Only in subjects with normal blood pressure EWD significantly increased (+14.7%, P = .0009). Conclusions Although patients with hypertension compared with those with normal blood pressure have increased LV systolic stiffness and regional myocardial work to match arterial load at rest, they might have diminished cardiac reserve to increase myocardial performance, as estimated by EWD during isometric exercise. PMID:22622108

Echocardiographic evaluation of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in subclinical hypothyroidism: A case-control study.

PubMed

Malhotra, Yuthika; Kaushik, Rajeev Mohan; Kaushik, Reshma

2017-08-01

To study the prevalence of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) and the response of LVDD to L-thyroxine therapy. This cross-sectional case-control study with one longitudinal arm included 67 patients with SCH attending a tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand, India, and 67 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. LVDD was assessed by 2D, pulsed-wave Doppler (PWD), continuous wave Doppler (CWD), and tissue Doppler echocardiography (TDE). Patients with LVDD received L-thyroxine therapy with reassessment for LVDD 6 months later. SCH patients had a higher prevalence of LVDD than controls (13.43% versus 1.49%; p = 0.017). LVDD showed a significant association with gender (p = 0.004) and serum FT4 (p = 0.001). E velocity, E' velocity, A' velocity, iso-volumetric relaxation time (IVRT), E/A, and E'/A' ratios were significantly lower, while A velocity, deceleration time (DT), E/E' ratio, left atrial (LA) volume index, and peak tricuspid regurgitation (TR) velocity were significantly higher in cases than controls (p < 0.05 each). The E/A ratio correlated significantly with age, serum very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), triglycerides (TG), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (p < 0.05 each). E' velocity correlated significantly with age, serum total cholesterol, VLDL, and TG (p < 0.05 each), DT with serum total cholesterol (p = 0.047), and LA volume index with age (p = 0.021). Age (p = 0.016) and serum HDL (p = 0.029) were independent predictors of E/A ratio. Gender was an independent predictor for LVDD (p = 0.003). Echocardiographic indices for LVDD showed significant improvement after 6 months of L-thyroxine therapy (p < 0.05 each). LVDD occurs commonly in SCH patients. It can be detected timely using echocardiography and may be reversed by L-thyroxine therapy.

Development of Army High-Energy Fuel for Diesel/Turbine Powered Surface Equipment

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-10-01

approximately CH2(R)CH(RI)CH2 OPO(OH)O(CH2 ) 2 N(OH)(CH 3 ) 3 , where R and R1 are fatty acid groups. The phosphatides are mixtures of diglyceride residues from...In the JP-lO/H2 0 microemulsions, three different emulsifying agents were used, all similar in type, but with varying acid numbers. The agents...designated as EA-8, EA-12, and EA-37, had acid numbers of approximately 14, 18.5, and >20, respectively. All three were visually stable (no settling) for 1

Equation of motion coupled cluster methods for electron attachment and ionization potential in polyacenes

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

Bhaskaran-Nair, Kiran; Kowalski, Karol; Jarrell, Mark

2015-11-05

Polyacenes have attracted considerable attention due to their use in organic based optoelectronic materials. Polyacenes are polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons composed of fused benzene rings. Key to understanding and design of new functional materials is an understanding of their excited state properties starting with their electron affinity (EA) and ionization potential (IP). We have developed a highly accurate and com- putationally e*fficient EA/IP equation of motion coupled cluster singles and doubles (EA/IP-EOMCCSD) method that is capable of treating large systems and large basis set. In this study we employ the EA/IP-EOMCCSD method to calculate the electron affinity and ionization potential ofmore » naphthalene, anthracene, tetracene, pentacene, hex- acene and heptacene. We have compared our results with other previous theoretical studies and experimental data. Our EA/IP results are in very good agreement with experiment and when compared with the other theoretical investigations our results represent the most accurate calculations as compared to experiment.« less

Sex Differences in Virtual Network Characteristics and Sexual Risk Behavior among Emerging Adults

PubMed Central

Cook, Stephanie H.; Bauermeister, José A.; Zimmerman, Marc A.

2016-01-01

Emerging adults (EAs)ages 18 to 24 account for a large proportion of all sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV infections, and unintended pregnancies in the United States. Given the increased influence of online media on decision-making, we examined how EA online networks were associated with sexual risk behaviors. We used egocentric network data collected from EAs aged 18 to 24 years old across the United States (N=1,687) to examine how online norms (e.g., acceptance of HIV infections, other STIs, and pregnancy) and network characteristics (i.e., network size and density; ties' closeness, race, age, and sex similarities) were associated with participants' unprotected vaginal intercourse (UVI) in the last 30 days. Findings suggested that in male EAs, there was a strong association between sexual norms, structural characteristics, and sexual risk behavior compared to females. Researchers and practitioners may wish to address online peer norms and EAs' online network composition when developing online sexual risk prevention tools. PMID:28083447

Development of a Measure of Experiential Avoidance: The Multidimensional Experiential Avoidance Questionnaire

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gamez, Wakiza; Chmielewski, Michael; Kotov, Roman; Ruggero, Camilo; Watson, David

2011-01-01

Experiential avoidance (EA) has been conceptualized as the tendency to avoid negative internal experiences and is an important concept in numerous conceptualizations of psychopathology as well as theories of psychotherapy. Existing measures of EA have either been narrowly defined or demonstrated unsatisfactory internal consistency and/or evidence…

The mediation of environmental assessment's influence: What role for power?

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

Cashmore, Matthew, E-mail: cashmore@plan.aau.dk; Axelsson, Anna

2013-02-15

Considerable empirical research has been conducted on why policy tools such as environmental assessment (EA) often appear to have 'little effect' (after Weiss) on policy decisions. This article revisits this debate but looks at a mediating factor that has received limited attention to-date in the context of EA - political power. Using a tripartite analytical framework, a comparative analysis of the influence and significance of power in mediating environmental policy integration is undertaken. Power is analysed, albeit partially, through an exploration of institutions that underpin social order. Empirically, the research examines the case of a new approach to policy-level EAmore » (essentially a form of Strategic Environmental Assessment) developed by the World Bank and its trial application to urban environmental governance and planning in Dhaka mega-city, Bangladesh. The research results demonstrate that power was intimately involved in mediating the influence of the policy EA approach, in both positive (enabling) and negative (constraining) ways. It is suggested that the policy EA approach was ultimately a manifestation of a corporate strategy to maintain the powerful position of the World Bank as a leading authority on international development which focuses on knowledge generation. Furthermore, as constitutive of an institution and reflecting the worldviews of its proponents, the development of a new approach to EA also represents a significant power play. This leads us to, firstly, emphasise the concepts of strategy and intentionality in theorising how and why EA tools are employed, succeed and fail; and secondly, reflect on the reasons why power has received such limited attention to-date in EA scholarship. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Conducts empirical research on the neglected issue of power. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Employs an interpretation of power in which it is viewed as a productive phenomenon. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Analyses the influence of power in the trial application of a new approach to policy environmental assessment. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Demonstrates the importance of power dynamics in understanding the successes and failures of environmental assessment.« less

Introduction to economic assessment - part 2.

PubMed

McMahon, Ann; Sin, Chih Hoong

2014-07-01

This is the second in a series of four continuing professional development articles that explain some of the principles of economic assessment (EA) and describe how they may be applied in practice by front line practitioners leading service innovations. It introduces a methodology, with associated tools and templates, that has been used by practising nurses to conduct EAs. Our purpose is to equip readers with the knowledge to develop a technically competent, pragmatic EA that will contribute towards evidence-informed decision making and assure the best use of limited resources. If you have not already read the first article in this series ( McMahon and Sin 2013), we strongly advise you to do so as each article purposefully draws and builds on those that have gone before. The time out exercises in the first article required you to access source material located on the RCN website and identify a service innovation in your workplace. The time out exercises in this article draw in these same sources. We begin this article by recapping on the points covered in the first article before exploring the implications of the principles of EA and how to apply them in practice. In this article, we refer to and draw on a companion article published in this edition of Nursing Management ( pages 38-41) that sets out the most commonly cited approaches to EA in health and social care. We aim to enable readers, along with those they seek to influence, to make an informed decision as to what may be an appropriate EA approach in any specific context.

In it together: Organizational learning through participation in environmental assessment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fitzpatrick, Patricia

2005-07-01

Can organizations learn through participation in environmental assessment (EA)? This was the central research question of a study that explored the linkages among sustainable development, EA, public participation, and learning. To address this question, the research design involved a comparative case study of two concurrent but geographically separate projects, the Wuskwatim generation station and transmission lines projects (Wuskwatim projects), and the Snap Lake Diamonds Project (Snap Lake project). The Wuskwatim projects involve the construction of a low head dam and three 230 kV transmission line segments in Northern Manitoba, Canada. The Snap Lake Project involves the construction and operation of a diamond mine 220 km northwest of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada, at the headwaters of the Lockhart River drainage system. The EAs of these proposed developments provided multiple opportunities for public (and organizational) involvement in the review, including comments on the scope of the assessment, information requests, and public hearings. Data collection included participant observation, semi-structured interviews with EA participants, and documentation generated through the course of the reviews. Data were organized using QSR Nvivo, a database software system. In this dissertation, three key contributions are made. The theoretical framework that draws together a number of separate but related fields of study---communicative action, discursive democracy, transformative learning, organizational learning---is the first contribution. The second is verification that organizations learn through participation in EA. Third, empirical support is presented far the assertion that transformative learning can address change beyond that experienced by the individual, to account for both policy-oriented and organizational learning. Related to the second contribution, results indicate that participants of EA engage in Teaming on multiple scales. Furthermore, learning outcomes include both instrumental and communicative learning. Instrumental learning included an increased understanding of technical issues and assessment tools, such as information requests. Communicative teaming outcomes included the importance of dialogue as a means of resolving issues and a refinement of strategies For promoting organizational positions. At an organizational scale, teaming by state actors, including government and tribunals, emphasized mechanisms designed to improve performance within existing structures, or "single-loop learning". Public actors, however, identified more outcomes associated with changes to their theory-in-use, designed to change the structure of the EA process, or "double-loop learning". The discussion of learning supports the application of transformative learning as a framework for considering different scales of learning, the third contribution to research. Findings revealed that individuals and organizations use project specific EA as an opportunity to compel the development and implementation of sustainable initiatives. These findings suggest that higher order learning for sustainability may be occurring through project based EA. Results also revealed the importance of creating opportunities for discussion and debate as a means of engaging organizations in and encouraging learning through EA. These findings support Habermas' emphasis on dialogue as a means of negotiating political systems.

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

DOE PAGES

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

2014-04-24

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

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

PubMed

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

2015-09-02

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

Developing a Shuffled Complex-Self Adaptive Hybrid Evolution (SC-SAHEL) Framework for Water Resources Management and Water-Energy System Optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahnamay Naeini, M.; Sadegh, M.; AghaKouchak, A.; Hsu, K. L.; Sorooshian, S.; Yang, T.

2017-12-01

Meta-Heuristic optimization algorithms have gained a great deal of attention in a wide variety of fields. Simplicity and flexibility of these algorithms, along with their robustness, make them attractive tools for solving optimization problems. Different optimization methods, however, hold algorithm-specific strengths and limitations. Performance of each individual algorithm obeys the "No-Free-Lunch" theorem, which means a single algorithm cannot consistently outperform all possible optimization problems over a variety of problems. From users' perspective, it is a tedious process to compare, validate, and select the best-performing algorithm for a specific problem or a set of test cases. In this study, we introduce a new hybrid optimization framework, entitled Shuffled Complex-Self Adaptive Hybrid EvoLution (SC-SAHEL), which combines the strengths of different evolutionary algorithms (EAs) in a parallel computing scheme, and allows users to select the most suitable algorithm tailored to the problem at hand. The concept of SC-SAHEL is to execute different EAs as separate parallel search cores, and let all participating EAs to compete during the course of the search. The newly developed SC-SAHEL algorithm is designed to automatically select, the best performing algorithm for the given optimization problem. This algorithm is rigorously effective in finding the global optimum for several strenuous benchmark test functions, and computationally efficient as compared to individual EAs. We benchmark the proposed SC-SAHEL algorithm over 29 conceptual test functions, and two real-world case studies - one hydropower reservoir model and one hydrological model (SAC-SMA). Results show that the proposed framework outperforms individual EAs in an absolute majority of the test problems, and can provide competitive results to the fittest EA algorithm with more comprehensive information during the search. The proposed framework is also flexible for merging additional EAs, boundary-handling techniques, and sampling schemes, and has good potential to be used in Water-Energy system optimal operation and management.

An Overview of the State of Environmental Assessment Education at Canadian Universities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stelmack, Colleen M.; Sinclair, John A.; Fitzpatrick, Patricia

2005-01-01

Purpose--Environmental assessment (EA) is a proactive planning tool designed to consider the ecological, cultural, socio-political and economic impacts of potential projects, making it a major tool for achieving sustainable development. Meaningful EA requires a bridging of the natural sciences with the social sciences to broaden understanding of…

The Influence of Affective Empathy and Autism Spectrum Traits on Empathic Accuracy

PubMed Central

aan het Rot, Marije; Hogenelst, Koen

2014-01-01

Autism spectrum disorder is characterized by interpersonal deficits and has been associated with limited cognitive empathy, which includes perspective taking, theory of mind, and empathic accuracy (EA). The capacity for affective empathy may also be impaired. In the present study we aimed to determine if EA in normally developing individuals with varying levels of autism spectrum traits is moderated by trait affective empathy. Fifty male and fifty female participants (‘perceivers’) completed the Autism-Spectrum Quotient and the Balanced Emotional Empathy Scale to assess autism spectrum traits and trait affective empathy, respectively. EA was assessed using a Dutch-language version of a previously developed task and involved rating the feelings of others (‘targets’) verbally recounting autobiographical emotional events. Targets varied in trait emotional expressivity, assessed using the Berkeley Expressivity Questionnaire. Perceivers with more autism spectrum traits performed worse on the EA task, particularly when their trait affective empathy was relatively low. Interpersonal deficits in autism spectrum disorder may be partially explained by low cognitive empathy. Further, they might be aggravated by a limited capacity for affective empathy. PMID:24905105

Childhood Trauma and Two Stages of Alcohol Use in African American and European American Women: Findings from a Female Twin Sample.

PubMed

Sartor, Carolyn E; Grant, Julia D; Few, Lauren R; Werner, Kimberly B; McCutcheon, Vivia V; Duncan, Alexis E; Nelson, Elliot C; Madden, Pamela A F; Bucholz, Kathleen K; Heath, Andrew C; Agrawal, Arpana

2017-09-05

The current investigation assessed for moderating effects of childhood trauma on genetic and environmental contributions to timing of alcohol use initiation and alcohol use disorder in African American (AA) and European American (EA) women. Data were drawn from diagnostic telephone interviews conducted with 3786 participants (14.6% AA) in a longitudinal female twin study. Childhood trauma was defined alternately as child maltreatment and more broadly to include other events (e.g., witnessing violence). Phenotypic associations between childhood trauma and alcohol outcomes were estimated using logistic regression analyses. Twin modeling was conducted to test for moderating effects of childhood trauma on the contributions of genetic and environmental factors to timing of initiation and alcohol use disorder. Under both definitions, childhood trauma was associated with early initiation (relative risk ratios: 1.90, 1.72) and alcohol use disorder (odds ratios: 1.92, 1.76). Yet gene by environment effects were observed only for child maltreatment and timing of initiation in EA women, with heritable influences less prominent in those who had experienced child maltreatment (0.35, 95% CI: 0.05-0.66 vs. 0.52, 95% CI: 0.30-0.73). We found more similarities than differences in the association of childhood trauma with alcohol outcomes across racial/ethnic groups, trauma type, and stages of alcohol use. However, findings suggest that the relative contribution of genetic factors to alcohol outcomes differs by childhood maltreatment history in EA women specifically in the earliest stage of alcohol use.

Screen time behaviours may interact with obesity genes, independent of physical activity, to influence adolescent BMI in an ethnically diverse cohort.

PubMed

Graff, M; North, K E; Richardson, A S; Young, K M; Mohlke, K L; Lange, L A; Lange, E M; Harris, K M; Gordon-Larsen, P

2013-12-01

There has been little investigation of gene-by-environment interactions related to sedentary behaviour, a risk factor for obesity defined as leisure screen time (ST; i.e. television, video and computer games). To test the hypothesis that limiting ST use attenuates the genetic predisposition to increased body mass index (BMI), independent of physical activity. Using 7642 wave II participants of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health, (Add Health; mean = 16.4 years, 52.6% female), we assessed the interaction of ST (h week(-1) ) and 41 established obesity single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with age- and sex-specific BMI Z-scores in 4788 European-American (EA), 1612 African-American (AA) and 1242 Hispanic American (HA) adolescents. Nominally significant SNP*ST interaction were found for FLJ35779 in EA, GNPDA2 in AA and none in HA (EA: beta [SE] = 0.016[0.007]), AA: beta [SE] = 0.016[0.011]) per 7 h week(-1) ST and one risk allele in relation to BMI Z-score. While for two established BMI loci, we find evidence that high levels of ST exacerbate the influence of obesity susceptibility variants on body mass; overall, we do not find strong evidence for interactions between the majority of established obesity loci. However, future studies with larger sample sizes, or that may build on our current study and the growing published literature, are clearly warranted. © 2013 The Authors. Pediatric Obesity © 2013 International Association for the Study of Obesity.

Failure Criterion For Isotropic Time Dependent Materials Which Accounts for Multi-Axial Loading

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

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

2003-01-01

The Space Shuttle's Reusable Solid Rocket Motor (RSRM) nozzle program has recently conducted testing to characterize the effects of multi-axial loading, temperature and time on the failure characteristics of TIGA321, EA913NA, EA946 (three filled epoxy adhesives). From the test data a "Multi-Axial, Temperature, and Time Dependent" or MATT failure criterion was developed. It is shown that this criterion simplifies, for constant load and constant load rate conditions, into a form that can be easily used for stress analysis. Failure for TIGA321 and EA913NA are characterized below their glass transition temperature. Failure for EA946 is characterized for conditions that pass through its glass transition. The MATT failure criterion is shown to be accurate for a wide range of conditions for these adhesives.

Prediction of emergence agitation using withdrawal reaction following rocuronium injection in preschool-aged patients undergoing inguinal herniorrhaphy: a preliminary exploratory observational trial.

PubMed

Kim, Dae Hee; Roh, Go Un; Lee, Young Bok; Choi, Chang Ik; Lee, Jae Moon; Chae, Yun Jeong

2018-01-01

The development of emergence agitation (EA) is associated with several factors including age, preoperative anxiety, postoperative pain, anesthesia method, and surgery type. No studies have investigated whether the withdrawal reaction following rocuronium injection can predict the occurrence of EA. Therefore, we investigated this relationship in preschool-aged children undergoing inguinal herniorrhaphy, and which grade of withdrawal reaction is appropriate for identifying patients at risk of experiencing EA. A total of 40 patients were enrolled in this study. During anesthesia induction, the withdrawal reaction after loss of consciousness following rocuronium injection was assessed using a 4-point scale. After surgery, EA was assessed using the Watcha scale. There was a correlation between withdrawal reaction and EA on admission to the postanesthesia care unit (PACU). Patients with a severe withdrawal reaction (grade 3) showed a significantly higher incidence of severe EA requiring medication on admission to the PACU. The findings of this preliminary exploratory observational study suggest that it is possible for withdrawal movement following rocuronium injection during anesthesia induction to reflect pain sensitivity of pediatric patients, which in turn may be useful in identifying those at risk of severe EA on admission to the PACU among preschool children undergoing inguinal herniorrhaphy. Further studies with a larger sample size are required to validate these findings. The exact correlation between pain reaction following rocuronium injection and postoperative pain or pain-related phenomenon should be elucidated.

Critical concepts in elder abuse research.

PubMed

Goergen, Thomas; Beaulieu, Marie

2013-08-01

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

Electroacupuncture Promotes Recovery of Motor Function and Reduces Dopaminergic Neuron Degeneration in Rodent Models of Parkinson's Disease.

PubMed

Lin, Jaung-Geng; Chen, Chao-Jung; Yang, Han-Bin; Chen, Yi-Hung; Hung, Shih-Ya

2017-08-24

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disease. The pathological hallmark of PD is a progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN) pars compacta in the brain, ultimately resulting in severe striatal dopamine deficiency and the development of primary motor symptoms (e.g., resting tremor, bradykinesia) in PD. Acupuncture has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat PD for the control of tremor and pain. Accumulating evidence has shown that using electroacupuncture (EA) as a complementary therapy ameliorates motor symptoms of PD. However, the most appropriate timing for EA intervention and its effect on dopamine neuronal protection remain unclear. Thus, this study used the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-lesioned mouse model (systemic-lesioned by intraperitoneal injection) and the 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP⁺)-lesioned rat model (unilateral-lesioned by intra-SN infusion) of PD, to explore the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of EA at the GB34 (Yanglingquan) and LR3 (Taichong) acupoints. We found that EA increased the latency to fall from the accelerating rotarod and improved striatal dopamine levels in the MPTP studies. In the MPP⁺ studies, EA inhibited apomorphine induced rotational behavior and locomotor activity, and demonstrated neuroprotective effects via the activation of survival pathways of Akt and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the SN region. In conclusion, we observed that EA treatment reduces motor symptoms of PD and dopaminergic neurodegeneration in rodent models, whether EA is given as a pretreatment or after the initiation of disease symptoms. The results indicate that EA treatment may be an effective therapy for patients with PD.

Interactions among genetic variants in apoptosis pathway genes, reflux symptoms, body mass index, and smoking indicate two distinct etiologic patterns of esophageal adenocarcinoma.

PubMed

Zhai, Rihong; Chen, Feng; Liu, Geoffrey; Su, Li; Kulke, Matthew H; Asomaning, Kofi; Lin, Xihong; Heist, Rebecca S; Nishioka, Norman S; Sheu, Chau-Chyun; Wain, John C; Christiani, David C

2010-05-10

Apoptosis pathway, gastroesophageal reflux symptoms (reflux), higher body mass index (BMI), and tobacco smoking have been individually associated with esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA) development. However, how multiple factors jointly affect EA risk remains unclear. In total, 305 patients with EA and 339 age- and sex-matched controls were studied. High-order interactions among reflux, BMI, smoking, and functional polymorphisms in five apoptotic genes (FAS, FASL, IL1B, TP53BP, and BAT3) were investigated by entropy-based multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR), classification and regression tree (CART), and traditional logistic regression (LR) models. In LR analysis, reflux, BMI, and smoking were significantly associated with EA risk, with reflux as the strongest individual factor. No individual single nucleotide polymorphism was associated with EA susceptibility. However, there was a two-way interaction between IL1B + 3954C>T and reflux (P = .008). In both CART and MDR analyses, reflux was also the strongest individual factor for EA risk. In individuals with reflux symptoms, CART analysis indicated that strongest interaction was among variant genotypes of IL1B + 3954C>T and BAT3S625P, higher BMI, and smoking (odds ratio [OR], 5.76; 95% CI, 2.48 to 13.38), a finding independently found using MDR analysis. In contrast, for participants without reflux symptoms, the strongest interaction was found between higher BMI and smoking (OR, 3.27; 95% CI, 1.88 to 5.68), also echoed by entropy-based MDR analysis. Although a history of reflux is an important risk for EA, multifactor interactions also play important roles in EA risk. Gene-environment interaction patterns differ between patients with and without reflux symptoms.

Intervention of electroacupuncture on spinal p38 MAPK/ATF-2/VR-1 pathway in treating inflammatory pain induced by CFA in rats.

PubMed

Fang, Jian-Qiao; Du, Jun-Ying; Liang, Yi; Fang, Jun-Fan

2013-03-22

Previous studies have demonstrated that p38 MAPK signal transduction pathway plays an important role in the development and maintenance of inflammatory pain. Electroacupuncture (EA) can suppress the inflammatory pain. However, the relationship between EA effect and p38 MAPK signal transduction pathway in inflammatory pain remains poorly understood. It is our hypothesis that p38 MAPK/ATF-2/VR-1 and/or p38 MAPK/ATF-2/COX-2 signal transduction pathway should be activated by inflammatory pain in CFA-injected model. Meanwhile, EA may inhibit the activation of p38 MAPK signal transduction pathway. The present study aims to investigate that anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect of EA and its intervention on the p38 MAPK signal transduction pathway in a rat model of inflammatory pain. EA had a pronounced anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect on CFA-induced chronic inflammatory pain in rats. EA could quickly raise CFA-rat's paw withdrawal thresholds (PWTs) and maintain good and long analgesic effect, while it subdued the ankle swelling of CFA rats only at postinjection day 14. EA could down-regulate the protein expressions of p-p38 MAPK and p-ATF-2, reduced the numbers of p-p38 MAPK-IR cells and p-ATF-2-IR cells in spinal dorsal horn in CFA rats, inhibited the expressions of both protein and mRNA of VR-1, but had no effect on the COX-2 mRNA expression. The present study indicates that inhibiting the activation of spinal p38 MAPK/ATF-2/VR-1 pathway may be one of the main mechanisms via central signal transduction pathway in the process of anti-inflammatory pain by EA in CFA rats.

Antiamoebic Activity of Adenophyllum aurantium (L.) Strother and Its Effect on the Actin Cytoskeleton of Entamoeba histolytica

PubMed Central

Herrera-Martínez, Mayra; Hernández-Ramírez, Verónica I.; Hernández-Carlos, Beatriz; Chávez-Munguía, Bibiana; Calderón-Oropeza, Mónica A.; Talamás-Rohana, Patricia

2016-01-01

In Mexico, the Adenophyllum aurantium (L.) Strother plant is consumed as an infusion to treat intestinal diseases such as amoebiasis, which is an endemic health problem in Mexico and other countries. However, the effect of A. aurantium on Entamoeba histolytica, the causative agent of amoebiasis, is unknown. An aerial part methanolic extract (AaMeA), a root methanolic extract (AaMeR) and a root ethyl acetate extract (AaEaR) were tested on E. histolytica trophozoites. AaMeA and AaMeR did not show antiproliferative activity; however, AaEaR exhibited an in vitro GI50 of 230 μg/ml, and it was able to inhibit the differentiation of Entamoeba invadens trophozoites into cysts. The intraperitoneal administration of AaEaR (2.5 or 5 mg) to hamsters that were infected with E. histolytica inhibited the development of amoebic liver abscesses in 48.5 or 89.0% of the animals, respectively. Adhesion to fibronectin and erythrophagocytosis were 28.7 and 37.5% inhibited by AaEaR, respectively. An ultrastructure analysis of AaEaR-treated trophozoites shows a decrease in the number of vacuoles but no apparent cell damage. Moreover, this extract affected the actin cytoskeleton structuration, and it prevented the formation of contractile rings by mechanism(s) that were independent of reactive oxygen species and RhoA activation pathways. 13C NMR data showed that the major compounds in the AaEaR extract are thiophenes. Our results suggest that AaEaR may be effective in treatments against amoebiasis, nevertheless, detailed toxicity studies on thiophenes, contained in AaEaR, are required to avoid misuse of this vegetal species. PMID:27445810

A gene for nystagmus-associated episodic ataxia maps to chromosome 19p

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

Kramer, P.L.; Root, D.; Gancher, S.

1994-09-01

Episodic ataxia (EA) is a rare, autosomal dominant disorder, characterized by attacks of generalized ataxia and relatively normal neurological function between attacks. Onset occurs in childhood or adolescence and persists through adulthood. Penetrance is nearly complete. EA is clinically heterogeneous, including at least two distinct entities: (1) episodes of ataxia and dysarthria lasting hours to days, generally with interictal nystagmus (MIM 108500); (2) episodes of ataxia and dysarthria lasting only minutes, with interictal myokymia (MMM 160120). The EA/nystagmus patients sometimes develop persistent ataxia and cerebellar atrophy. Previously we reported linkage in four EA/myokymia families to a K{sup +} channel genemore » on chromosome 12p. We excluded this region in a large family with EA/nystagmus. We now report evidence for linkage to chromosome 19p in this and in one other EA/nystagmus family, based on eight microsatellite markers which span approximately 30 cM. The region is flanked distally by D19S209 and proximally by D19S226. All six markers within this region gave positive evidence for linkage; the highest total two-point lod scores occurred wtih D19S221 (3.98 at theta = 0.10) and D19S413 (3.37 at theta = 0.05). Interestingly, Joutel et al. (1993) mapped a gene for familial hemiplegic migraine (FHM) to the region around D19S221. Some individuals in these families have ataxia, cerebellar atrophy and interictal nystagmus, but no episodic ataxia. These results demonstrate that the clinical heterogeneity in EA reflects underlying genetic hetreogeneity. In addition, they suggest that EA/nystagmus and some FHM may represent different mutations in the same gene locus on chromosome 19p.« less

Intervention of electroacupuncture on spinal p38 MAPK/ATF-2/VR-1 pathway in treating inflammatory pain induced by CFA in rats

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Previous studies have demonstrated that p38 MAPK signal transduction pathway plays an important role in the development and maintenance of inflammatory pain. Electroacupuncture (EA) can suppress the inflammatory pain. However, the relationship between EA effect and p38 MAPK signal transduction pathway in inflammatory pain remains poorly understood. It is our hypothesis that p38 MAPK/ATF-2/VR-1 and/or p38 MAPK/ATF-2/COX-2 signal transduction pathway should be activated by inflammatory pain in CFA-injected model. Meanwhile, EA may inhibit the activation of p38 MAPK signal transduction pathway. The present study aims to investigate that anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect of EA and its intervention on the p38 MAPK signal transduction pathway in a rat model of inflammatory pain. Results EA had a pronounced anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect on CFA-induced chronic inflammatory pain in rats. EA could quickly raise CFA-rat’s paw withdrawal thresholds (PWTs) and maintain good and long analgesic effect, while it subdued the ankle swelling of CFA rats only at postinjection day 14. EA could down-regulate the protein expressions of p-p38 MAPK and p-ATF-2, reduced the numbers of p-p38 MAPK-IR cells and p-ATF-2-IR cells in spinal dorsal horn in CFA rats, inhibited the expressions of both protein and mRNA of VR-1, but had no effect on the COX-2 mRNA expression. Conclusions The present study indicates that inhibiting the activation of spinal p38 MAPK/ATF-2/VR-1 pathway may be one of the main mechanisms via central signal transduction pathway in the process of anti-inflammatory pain by EA in CFA rats. PMID:23517865

Self nanoemulsifying drug delivery system of stabilized ellagic acid-phospholipid complex with improved dissolution and permeability.

PubMed

Avachat, Amelia M; Patel, Vijay G

2015-07-01

Ellagic acid (EA), a plant polyphenol known for its wide-range of health benefits has limited use due to its low oral bioavailability. In this study, a new self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS), based on the phospholipid complex technique, was developed to improve the oral bioavailability of ellagic acid. Ellagic acid-phospholipid complex was prepared by an anti-solvent method and characterized. Enhanced lipophilicity after the formation of ellagic acid-phospholipid complex was verified through solubility studies. Preliminary screening was carried out to select oil, surfactant and co-surfactant. Ternary phase diagrams were constructed to identify the area of nanoemulsification. Formulations were optimized on the basis of globule size, cloud point and robustness to dilution. The optimized SNEDDS of ellagic acid-phospholipid complex showed mean globule size of 106 ± 0.198 nm and cloud point at 83-85 °C. The in vitro drug release from SNEDDS was found to be higher compared to EA suspension and complex, while ex vivo studies showed increased permeation from SNEDDS compared to EA suspension. Moreover, SNEDDS overcome the food effect which was shown by EA suspension. Thus, SNEDDS were found to be influential in improving the release performance of EA, indicating their potential to improve the oral bioavailability of EA.

Nicorandil improves myocardial function by regulating plasma nitric oxide and endothelin-1 in coronary slow flow

PubMed Central

Chen, Xiuhua; Li, Shan; Huo, Xuezhen; Fu, Xiuxiu; Dong, Xiaonan

2015-01-01

Background Coronary slow flow (CSF) is a special coronary microvascular disorder. The pathogenesis and effective therapeutics of CSF remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the global and regional functions of the left ventricle (LV) and investigate the efficacy of nicorandil in patients with CSF. Patients and methods Thirty-six patients with CSF in the left anterior descending (LAD) branch and 20 patients with normal coronary arteries were included. Global and regional functions of the LV supplied by LAD were measured using conventional Doppler echocardiography and two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography, respectively, within 24 h after coronary angiography. Concentrations of plasma nitric oxide (NO) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) were detected using colorimetry and radioimmunoassay, respectively. The function of the LV and the levels of NO and ET-1 were also investigated before and 90 days after treatment with 15 mg/day of nicorandil. Results Compared with the control group, the early diastolic peak velocity (E), E/A ratio, and plasma NO levels were lower, whereas the late diastolic peak flow velocity (A) and plasma ET-1 levels were significantly higher in the CSF group (P<0.05). The longitudinal strain rate peak of the LV was reduced significantly in CSF patients (P<0.001). After treatment, 75% (27/36) of CSF patients were free of chest pain. The values of E peak, E/A ratio, longitudinal strain rate peak, and plasma NO level were increased (P<0.001), whereas the ET-1 level was decreased in CSF patients (P<0.001). Conclusion Nicorandil may improve chest pain symptoms and the impaired function of the LV, possibly by increasing plasma NO and reducing ET-1 in CSF. PMID:25325437

Protective effects of acute exercise prior to doxorubicin on cardiac function of breast cancer patients: A proof-of-concept RCT.

PubMed

Kirkham, A A; Shave, R E; Bland, K A; Bovard, J M; Eves, N D; Gelmon, K A; McKenzie, D C; Virani, S A; Stöhr, E J; Warburton, D E R; Campbell, K L

2017-10-15

Preclinical studies have reported that a single treadmill session performed 24h prior to doxorubicin provides cardio-protection. We aimed to characterize the acute change in cardiac function following an initial doxorubicin treatment in humans and determine whether an exercise session performed 24h prior to treatment changes this response. Breast cancer patients were randomized to either 30min of vigorous-intensity exercise 24h prior to the first doxorubicin treatment (n=13), or no vigorous exercise for 72h prior to treatment (control, n=11). Echocardiographically-derived left ventricular volumes, longitudinal strain, twist, E/A ratio, and circulating NT-proBNP, a marker of later cardiotoxicity, were measured before and 24-48h after the treatment. Following treatment in the control group, NT-proBNP, end-diastolic and stroke volumes, cardiac output, E/A ratio, strain, diastolic strain rate, twist, and untwist velocity significantly increased (all p≤0.01). Whereas systemic vascular resistance (p<0.01) decreased, and ejection fraction (p=0.02) and systolic strain rate (p<0.01) increased in the exercise group only. Relative to control, the exercise group had a significantly lower NT-proBNP (p<0.01) and a 46% risk reduction of exceeding the cut-point used to exclude acute heart failure. The first doxorubicin treatment is associated with acutely increased NT-proBNP, echocardiographic parameters of myocardial relaxation, left ventricular volume overload, and changes in longitudinal strain and twist opposite in direction to documented longer-term changes. An exercise session performed 24h prior to treatment attenuated NT-proBNP release and increased systolic function. Future investigations should verify these findings in a larger cohort and across multiple courses of doxorubicin. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A portable microfluidic system for rapid measurement of the erythrocyte sedimentation rate.

PubMed

Isiksacan, Ziya; Erel, Ozcan; Elbuken, Caglar

2016-11-29

The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a frequently used 30 min or 60 min clinical test for screening of several inflammatory conditions, infections, trauma, and malignant diseases, as well as non-inflammatory conditions including prostate cancer and stroke. Erythrocyte aggregation (EA) is a physiological process where erythrocytes form face-to-face linear structures, called rouleaux, at stasis or low shear rates. In this work, we proposed a method for ESR measurement from EA. We developed a microfluidic opto-electro-mechanical system, using which we experimentally showed a significant correlation (R 2 = 0.86) between ESR and EA. The microfluidic system was shown to measure ESR from EA using fingerprick blood in 2 min. 40 μl of whole blood is filled in a disposable polycarbonate cartridge which is illuminated with a near infrared emitting diode. Erythrocytes were disaggregated under the effect of a mechanical shear force using a solenoid pinch valve. Following complete disaggregation, transmitted light through the cartridge was measured using a photodetector for 1.5 min. The intensity level is at its lowest at complete disaggregation and highest at complete aggregation. We calculated ESR from the transmitted signal profile. We also developed another microfluidic cartridge specifically for monitoring the EA process in real-time during ESR measurement. The presented system is suitable for ultrafast, low-cost, and low-sample volume measurement of ESR at the point-of-care.

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

PubMed

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

2015-11-01

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

Involvement of the Negative Feedback of IL-33 Signaling in the Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Electro-acupuncture on Allergic Contact Dermatitis via Targeting MicroRNA-155 in Mast Cells.

PubMed

Wang, Zhigang; Yi, Tao; Long, Man; Ding, Fengmin; Ouyang, Lichen; Chen, Zebin

2018-06-01

In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of electro-acupuncture (EA) at the Zusanli acupoint (ST36) on interleukin (IL)-33-mediated mast cell activation. Firstly, 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB)-induced allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) in rats was developed with or without EA treatment. Then, rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMCs) were obtained and cultured in the presence of IL-33. EA treatment relieved ear swelling and reduced mast cell infiltration in the local inflammation area with DNFB challenge, accompanying the decrement of IL-33 production. RPMCs isolated from ACD rats with EA treatment showed significant downregulation of IL-6, TNF-α, IL-13, and MCP-1 production following IL-33 stimulation. However, there was no obvious difference in surface ST2 receptor expression among different groups. In addition, EA selectively altered IL-33 signaling, suppressing p38 phosphorylation as well as NF-κB- and AP-1-mediated transcription but not Akt phosphorylation. Importantly, EA lowered microRNA (miR)-155 expression in the RPMCs, which presented a positive correlation with IL-33-induced IL-6 production. Furthermore, overexpression of miR-155 in the RPMCs was established following miR-155 mimic transfection. RPMCs with the overexpressed miR-155 displayed an obvious increment of inflammatory cytokine and abrogated the inhibitive effect of EA on NF-κB- and AP-1-regulated transcription in response to IL-33 compared with those without transfected-miR-155. These findings demonstrate EA treatment inhibits NF-κB and AP-1 activation as well as promotes the negative feedback regulation of IL-33 signaling via targeting miR-155 in mast cells, which contribute to the anti-inflammatory effect of EA on DNFB-induced ACD in rats.

Fetal stomach paracentesis in combined duodenal and esophageal atresia.

PubMed

Kadohira, Ikuko; Miyakoshi, Kei; Shimojima, Naoki; Matsumoto, Tadashi; Minegishi, Kazuhiro; Tanaka, Mamoru; Kuroda, Tatsuo; Yoshimura, Yasunori

2014-07-01

Fetuses with concomitant duodenal atresia (DA) and esophageal atresia (EA) might develop in utero gastric rupture as well as neonatal respiratory complication due to dilated stomach and duodenum. Our patient with the typical "double bubble" appearance was highly suspected to have DA in the second trimester. Follow-up examinations revealed a massively dilated stomach and duodenum with a dilated distal esophagus, indicating concomitant DA and EA. With advancing pregnancy, the fetal abdomen progressively increased in size by retention of fluid in the closed loop of DA and EA. To avoid gastric perforation, prenatal stomach paracentesis using an ultrasound-guided needle was performed three times until delivery. A male neonate born at 37 weeks gestation showed no respiratory complication. Perinatal clinical features and operative findings revealed combined DA and EA (gross type A). He was successfully managed with duodenoduodenostomy, followed by esophago-esophagostomy. On fetal sonography, the marked "double bubble" appearance and the cystic structure presenting peristalsis-like movement above the diaphragm were indicative of concomitant DA and EA. Fetal stomach paracentesis could contribute to the improvement of perinatal outcomes in fetuses with this pathological condition.

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

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

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

2013-04-01

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

Long-Term Prognosis of Patients with Esophageal Atresia and/or Tracheoesophageal Fistula.

PubMed

Bakal, Unal; Ersoz, Fikret; Eker, Irem; Sarac, Mehmet; Aydin, Mustafa; Kazez, Ahmet

2016-05-01

To investigate long-term prognosis of infants with esophageal atresia (EA) and/or tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF). The data of patients with EA were investigated from their medical files. For the neurodevelopmental evaluation, they were requested to come for a return visit to authors' polyclinic. Intellectual development was assessed by Ankara Developmental Screening Inventory (ADSI) (for 0-6 age) and Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R) (for 6-16 age). Of the 57 patients, 50 had EA+ distal TEF (87.7 %), six had isolated EA (10.5 %) and one had isolated TEF (1.8 %). Of the total patients, 18 cases (31 %) died and remaining 39 cases (69 %) survived. In the surviving cases, the most common long-term complication was dysphagia (n = 37, 94.8 %). Intellectual levels of the 24 patients assessed by ADSI were normal and of the remaining 15 cases evaluated by WISC-R ranged between 95 and 110 points. The long-term complications and hospital visits are common in surviving cases of EA; however, they have normal cognitive functions and physical developmental characteristics.

Parental Management of Peers and Autonomic Nervous System Reactivity in Predicting Adolescent Peer Relationships

PubMed Central

Tu, Kelly M.; Erath, Stephen A.; El-Sheikh, Mona

2016-01-01

The present study examined sympathetic and parasympathetic indices of autonomic nervous system reactivity as moderators of the prospective association between parental management of peers via directing of youths’ friendships and peer adjustment in a sample of typically developing adolescents. Participants included 246 adolescents at Time 1 (T1) [47% boys; 66% European American (EA), 34% African American (AA)] and 226 adolescents at Time 2 (T2; 45% boys; 67% EA, 33% AA). Adolescents were approximately 16 and 17 years old at T1 and T2, respectively. To address study aims, a multi-informant, multi-method longitudinal design was utilized. Skin conductance level (SCL) and respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) were measured during a baseline period and challenge task (star-tracing). Reactivity was computed as a difference score between the task and baseline period. Results from path models revealed that higher levels of mother-reported parental directing predicted decreases in adolescent-reported peer rejection and friends’ deviant behavior from T1 to T2 at relatively low levels of physiological arousal in response to challenge (i.e., low SCL reactivity, RSA augmentation). Further, exploratory analyses indicated that directing was associated with decreases in friends’ deviant behavior and peer rejection particularly among boys who exhibited lower levels of physiological arousal, but increases in friends’ deviant behavior among boys who exhibited higher levels of arousal reflected in RSA withdrawal only. Overall, findings are consistent with prior studies revealing the benefits of parental behavioral control for under-aroused youth, contributing to the growing literature on the interplay of parenting and physiological factors in the adolescent peer domain. PMID:27854467

The eye amputated - consequences of eye amputation with emphasis on clinical aspects, phantom eye syndrome and quality of life.

PubMed

Rasmussen, Marie Louise Roed

2010-12-01

In this thesis the term eye amputation (EA) covers the removing of an eye by: evisceration, enucleation and exenteration. Amputation of an eye is most frequently the end-stage in a complicated disease, or the primary treatment in trauma and neoplasm. In 2010 the literature is extensive due to knowledge about types of surgery, implants and surgical technique. However, not much is known about the time past surgery. To identify the number of EA, the causative diagnosis and the indication for surgical removal of the eye, the chosen surgical technique and to evaluate a possible change in surgical technique in Denmark from 1996 until 2003 (paper I); To describe the phantom eye syndrome and its prevalence of visual hallucinations, phantom pain and phantom sensations (paper II); To characterise the quality of phantom eye pain, including its intensity and frequency among EA patients. We attempted to identify patients with increased risk of developing pain after EA and investigated if preoperative pain is a risk factor for a later development of phantom pain (paper III); In addition we wanted to investigate the health related quality of life, perceived stress, self rated health, job separation due to illness or disability and socio-economic position of the EA in comparison with the general Danish population (paper IV). Records on 431 EA patients, clinical ophthalmological examination and an interview study of 173 EA patients and a questionnaire answered by 120 EA patients. The most frequent indications for EA in Denmark were painful blind eye (37%) and neoplasm (34%). During the study period 1996-2003, the annual number of eye amputations was stable, but an increase in bulbar eviscerations was noticed. Orbital implants were used with an increasing tendency until 2003. The Phantom eye syndrome is frequent among EA patients. Visual hallucinations were described by 42% of the patients. The content were mainly elementary visual hallucinations, with white or colored light as a continuous sharp light or as moving dots. The most frequent triggers were darkness, closing of the eyes, fatigue and psychological stress. Fifty-four percent of the patients had visual hallucinations more than once a week. Ten patients were so visually disturbed that it interfered with their daily life. Approximately 23% of all EA experience phantom pain for several years after the surgery. Phantom pain was reported to be of three different qualities: (i) cutting, penetrating, gnawing or oppressive (n=19); (ii) radiating, zapping or shooting (n=8); (iii) superficial burning or stinging (n=5); or a mixture of these different pain qualities (n=7). The median intensity on a visual analogue scale, ranging from 0 to 100, was 36 [range: 1-89]. One-third of the patients experienced phantom pain every day. Chilliness, windy weather and psychological stress/fatigue were the most commonly reported triggers for pain. Factors associated with phantom pain were: ophthalmic pain before EA, the presence of implant and a patient reported high degree of conjunctival secretion. A common reason for EA is the presence of a painful blind eye. However, one third of these patients continue to have pain after the EA. Phantom sensations were present in 2% of the patients. The impact of an eye amputation is considerable. EA patients have poorer health related quality of life, poorer self-rated health and more perceived stress than does the general population. The largest differences in health related quality of life between the EA patients and the general population were related to role limitations due to emotional problems and mental health. Patients with the indication painful blind eye are having lower scores in all aspects of health related quality of life and perceived stress than patients with the indication neoplasm and trauma. The percentage of eye amputated which is divorced or separated was twice as high as in the general population. Furthermore, 25% retired or changed to part-time jobs due to eye disease and 39.5% stopped participating in leisure activities due to their EAs. © 2010 The Author. Acta Ophthalmologica © 2010 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation.

Swallowing Dysfunction and Quality of Life in Adults With Surgically Corrected Esophageal Atresia/Tracheoesophageal Fistula as Infants: Forty Years of Follow-up.

PubMed

Gibreel, Waleed; Zendejas, Benjamin; Antiel, Ryan M; Fasen, Geoffrey; Moir, Christopher R; Zarroug, Abdalla E

2017-08-01

The aim of the study was to evaluate and study the full spectrum of swallowing dysfunction and long-term disease-specific outcomes in adults with surgically corrected esophageal atresia/tracheaesophageal fistula (EA/TEF). Long-term outcomes for adults who underwent EA/TEF repair because infants are lacking. We developed a disease-specific swallowing dysfunction questionnaire (SDQ) to assess swallowing dysfunction and quality of life (QOL) of adult patients with surgically corrected EA/TEF. Patients were surveyed with the newly developed SDQ and with a generic QOL tool (36-Item Short Form Health Survey). Ninety-seven patients underwent EA/TEF repair at our institution from 1950 to 1997. Forty-six (61%) patients completed the survey. Median follow-up was 40 years (range 18-63). Results suggest that some degree of swallowing dysfunction is common (82%), worse with hard consistencies (70%), and is associated with frequently needing sips of liquids to facilitate swallowing (75%). The presence of swallowing dysfunction was, however, often mild and did not seem to affect patients' food choices, or their day-to-day activities. QOL did not differ from that of the general population, regardless of the presence or absence of swallowing dysfunction. The presence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (26%), esophageal stricture (39%), or both (15%) does not account for all situations of swallowing dysfunction, nor does it significantly impact QOL. Swallowing dysfunction is common in adults who underwent EA/TEF repair as infants; however, patients reported minimal effect on QOL or day-to-day activities. The SDQ is a valid and reliable tool to measure the full spectrum of swallowing dysfunction in the EA/TEF repair population.

Analgesic Choice in Management of Rib Fractures: Paravertebral Block or Epidural Analgesia?

PubMed

Malekpour, Mahdi; Hashmi, Ammar; Dove, James; Torres, Denise; Wild, Jeffrey

2017-06-01

Rib fractures are commonly encountered in the setting of trauma. The aim of this study was to assess the association between the clinical outcome of rib fracture and epidural analgesia (EA) versus paravertebral block (PVB) using the National Trauma Data Bank (NTDB). Using the 2011 and 2012 versions of the NTDB, we retrieved completed records for all patients above 18 years of age who were admitted with rib fractures. Primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes were length of stay (LOS), intensive care unit (ICU) admission, ICU LOS, mechanical ventilation, duration of mechanical ventilation, development of pneumonia, and development of any other complication. Clinical outcomes were first compared between propensity score-matched EA and PVB patients. Then, EA and PVB patients were combined into the procedure group and the outcomes were compared with propensity score-matched patients that received neither intervention (no-procedure group). A total of 194,766 patients were included in the study with 1073 patients having EA, 1110 patients having PVB, and 192,583 patients having neither procedure. After propensity score matching, comparison of primary and secondary outcomes between EA and PVB patients showed no difference. Comparison of propensity score-matched procedure and no-procedure patients showed prolonged LOS and more frequent ICU admissions in patients receiving a procedure (both P < .0001), yet having no procedure was associated with a significantly increased odds of mortality (odds ratio: 2.25; 95% confidence interval, 1.14-3.84; P = .002). Using the NTDB, EA and PVB were not found to be significantly different in management of rib fractures. There was an association between use of a block and improved outcome, but this could be explained by selection of healthier patients to receive a block. Prospective study of this association is recommended.

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

PubMed Central

Schnabel, Elise L.; Jones, Alan L.

2001-01-01

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

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

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

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

2015-11-01

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

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

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

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

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

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

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

2017-09-01

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

Genotoxic effect of ethacrynic acid and impact of antioxidants

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

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

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

Aviation System Analysis Capability Executive Assistant Development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roberts, Eileen; Villani, James A.; Anderson, Kevin; Book, Paul

1999-01-01

In this technical document, we describe the development of the Aviation System Analysis Capability (ASAC) Executive Assistant (EA) Proof of Concept (POC) and Beta version. We describe the genesis and role of the ASAC system, discuss the objectives of the ASAC system and provide an overview of components and models in the ASAC system, and describe the design process and the results of the ASAC EA POC and Beta system development. We also describe the evaluation process and results for applicable COTS software. The document has seven chapters, a bibliography, and two appendices.

ASAC Executive Assistant Architecture Description Summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roberts, Eileen; Villani, James A.

1997-01-01

In this technical document, we describe the system architecture developed for the Aviation System Analysis Capability (ASAC) Executive Assistant (EA). We describe the genesis and role of the ASAC system, discuss the objectives of the ASAC system and provide an overview of components and models within the ASAC system, discuss our choice for an architecture methodology, the Domain Specific Software Architecture (DSSA), and the DSSA approach to developing a system architecture, and describe the development process and the results of the ASAC EA system architecture. The document has six appendices.

The interaction between physical activity and obesity gene variants in association with BMI: Does the obesogenic environment matter?

PubMed

Graff, M; Richardson, A S; Young, K L; Mazul, A L; Highland, Heather; North, K E; Mohlke, K L; Lange, L A; Lange, E M; Harris, K M; Gordon-Larsen, P

2016-11-01

Little is known about how obesity susceptibility single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) interact with moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in relation to BMI during adolescence, once obesogenic neighborhood factors are accounted for. In race stratified models, including European (EA; N=4977), African (AA; N=1726), and Hispanic Americans (HA; N=1270) from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (1996; ages 12-21), we assessed the evidence for a SNPxMVPA interaction with BMI-for-age Z score, once accounting for obesogenic neighborhood factors including physical activity amenities, transportation and recreation infrastructure, poverty and crime. Eight SNPxMVPA interactions with suggestive significance (p<0.10; three in each EA, and AA, two in HA) were observed showing attenuation on BMI-for-age Z score in adolescents with ≥5 versus <5 bouts/week MVPA, except for rs10146997 (near NRXN3). Findings were robust to the inclusion of neighborhood-level variables as covariates. These findings suggest that any attenuation from MVPA on a genetic susceptibility to obesity during adolescence is likely not operating through obesogenic neighborhood factors. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Airfoil modification effects on subsonic and transonic pressure distributions and performance for the EA-6B airplane

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allison, Dennis O.; Sewall, William G.

1995-01-01

Longitudinal characteristics and wing-section pressure distributions are compared for the EA-6B airplane with and without airfoil modifications. The airfoil modifications were designed to increase low-speed maximum lift for maneuvering, while having a minimal effect on transonic performance. Section contour changes were confined to the leading-edge slat and trailing-edge flap regions of the wing. Experimental data are analyzed from tests in the Langley 16-Foot Transonic Tunnel on the baseline and two modified wing-fuselage configurations with the slats and flaps in their retracted positions. Wing modification effects on subsonic and transonic performance are seen in wing-section pressure distributions of the various configurations at similar lift coefficients. The modified-wing configurations produced maximum lift coefficients which exceeded those of the baseline configuration at low-speed Mach numbers (0.300 and 0.400). This benefit was related to the behavior of the wing upper surface leading-edge suction peak and the behavior of the trailing-edge pressure. At transonic Mach numbers (0.725 to 0.900), the wing modifications produced a somewhat stronger nose-down pitching moment, a slightly higher drag at low-lift levels, and a lower drag at higher lift levels.

Theoretical study of EAS hadronic structure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Popova, L.

1985-01-01

The structure of extensive air showers (EAS) is determined mainly by the energetic hadrons. They are strongly collimated in the core of the shower and essential difficulties are encountered for resolution of individual hadrons. The properties for resolution are different from the variety of hadron detectors used in EAS experiments. This is the main difficulty in obtaining a general agreement between actually registered data with different detectors. The most plausible source for disagreement is the uncertainty in determination of the energy of individual hadrons. This research demonstrates that a better agreement can be obtained with the average tendency of hadronic measurements if one assumes a larger coefficient of inelasticity and stronger energy increase of the total inelastic cross section in high energy pion interactions. EAS data above 10 to the 5th power GeV are revealing a faster development of hadronic cascades in the air then can be expected by extrapolating the parameters of hadron interactions obtained in accelerator measurements.

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

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

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

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

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

1986-03-01

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

Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory Wildland Fire Management Environmental Assessment - April 2003

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

Irving, J.S.

DOE prepared an environmental assessment (EA)for wildland fire management activities on the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL) (DOE/EA-1372). The EA was developed to evaluate wildland fire management options for pre-fire, fire suppression, and post fire activities. Those activities have an important role in minimizing the conversion of the native sagebrush steppe ecosystem found on the INEEL to non-native weeds. Four alternative management approaches were analyzed: Alternative 1 - maximum fire protection; Alternative 2 - balanced fire protection; Alternative 2 - balanced fire protection; Alternative 3 - protect infrastructure and personnel; and Alternative 4 - no action/traditional fire protection.

Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory Wildland Fire Management Environmental Assessment

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

Irving, John S

DOE prepared an environmental assessment (EA)for wildland fire management activities on the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL) (DOE/EA-1372). The EA was developed to evaluate wildland fire management options for pre-fire, fire suppression, and post fire activities. Those activities have an important role in minimizing the conversion of the native sagebrush steppe ecosystem found on the INEEL to non-native weeds. Four alternative management approaches were analyzed: Alternative 1 - maximum fire protection; Alternative 2 - balanced fire protection; Alternative 2 - balanced fire protection; Alternative 3 - protect infrastructure and personnel; and Alternative 4 - no action/traditional fire protection.

CE-QUAL-RIV1: A Dynamic, One-Dimensional (Longitudinal) Water Quality Model for Streams. User’s Manual

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-11-01

Applying the chain rule: dB dB dH dB 1 (180) 95 It remains to calculate dBi/ dHi and dB i+1/dHi+ 1 . Now as calculation pro - ceeds from node to node...simulation models can be powerful tools for studying these issues. However, to be useful, the water quality model must be properly vuited for the problem...0 GN_1(QNANQN _1AN_ ) = 0 GN(QN,AN) = 0 (47) 44. The e. l solution of these nobi -e-.a. equations c .-n proceed in two ways. First the nonlinear terms

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

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

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

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

First evidence of a prospective relation between avoidance of internal states and borderline personality disorder features in adolescents.

PubMed

Sharp, Carla; Kalpakci, Allison; Mellick, William; Venta, Amanda; Temple, Jeff R

2015-03-01

At least two leading developmental models of borderline personality disorder (BPD) emphasize the role of accurate reflection and understanding of internal states as significant to the development of BPD features (Fonagy, Int J Psycho-Anal 72:639-656, 1991; Linehan, Cognitive-behavioral treatment of borderline personality disorder, 1993). The current study used the construct of experiential avoidance (EA) to operationalize avoidance of internal states and sought to examine (1) the concurrent relations between EA and borderline features in a large and diverse community sample; and (2) the prospective relation between EA and borderline features over a 1-year follow-up, controlling for baseline levels of borderline features. N = 881 adolescents recruited from public schools in a large metropolitan area participated in baseline assessments and N = 730 completed follow-up assessments. Two main findings were reported. First, EA was associated with borderline features, depressive, and anxiety symptoms at the bivariate level, but when all variables were considered together, depression and anxiety no longer remained significantly associated with borderline features, suggesting that the relations among these symptom clusters may be accounted for by EA as a cross-cutting underlying psychological process. Second, EA predicted levels of borderline symptoms at 1-year follow-up, controlling for baseline levels of borderline symptoms, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Results are interpreted against the background of developmental theories of borderline personality disorder.

78 FR 25134 - Termination of the Preparation of an Air Tour Management Plan and Environmental Assessment for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-29

... Forest National Park in Arizona. The FAA and NPS have stopped work on preparation of the ATMP and EA... Lusk, Program Manager, AWP-1SP, Federal Aviation Administration, Western-Pacific Region, P.O. Box 92007... developed. The FAA and NPS began preparing an EA to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (Pub...

Specific destruction of islet transplants in NOD<-->C57BL/6 and NOD<-->C3H/Tif embryo aggregation chimeras irrespective of allelic differences in beta-cell antigens.

PubMed

Leijon, K; Hillörn, V; Bergqvist, I; Holmberg, D

1995-06-01

We have tested the hypothesis that allelic differences in the antigens expressed by the beta-cells of the islets of Langerhans influence the development of insulitis in the non-obese diabetic (NOD) mouse. Islets of Langerhans from NOD, C57BL/6 and C3H/Tif mice were transplanted under the kidney capsule of NOD<-->C57BL/6 and NOD<-->C3H/Tif embryo aggregation (EA) chimeras and the infiltration was scored 5-7 weeks later. Mononuclear cell infiltration of pancreatic islets was observed in 60% of the NOD<-->C57BL/6 and in 55% of the NOD<-->C3H/Tif EA chimeras. All transplanted EA chimeras that developed insulitis also displayed mononuclear cell infiltrates in the transplants, irrespective of the origin of the transplanted islets. In contrast, no infiltration of transplants was detected in EA chimeras scoring negative for insulitis. These results demonstrate that the specific destruction of islet transplants does not require the expression of NOD specific antigens by the islets. Moreover, the beta-cell destruction appears not to be restricted to NOD-MHC. The correlation between insulitis and transplant beta-cell destruction suggests the possibility that the development of insulitis is a prerequisite for transplant specific destruction. MHC restricted destruction may, therefore, precede the beta-cell destruction of transplanted islets. The chimerism among the mononuclear cells infiltrating the islet transplants was found to correlate with the overall haematopoetic chimerism in each of the individual EA chimeras. This observation suggests that NOD bone marrow, as well as non-NOD bone marrow, generates cells contributing to the beta-cell destruction process.

Ventricular-Arterial Coupling and Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension During Low-Level Exercise in Heart Failure With Preserved or Reduced Ejection Fraction.

PubMed

Obokata, Masaru; Nagata, Yasufumi; Kado, Yuichiro; Kurabayashi, Masahiko; Otsuji, Yutaka; Takeuchi, Masaaki

2017-03-01

Exercise-induced pulmonary hypertension (EIPH) may develop even at low workloads in heart failure (HF) patients. Ventricular-arterial stiffening plays an important role in the pathophysiology of HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). This study aimed to compare the response of ventricular-arterial coupling and PH during low-level exercise between HFpEF and HF with reduced EF (HFrEF). Echocardiography was performed at rest and during 10 W of bicycle exercise in HFpEF (n = 37) and HFrEF (n = 43). Load-independent contractility (end-systolic elastance [Ees], preload recruitable stroke work [PRSW], and peak power index [PWRI]), arterial afterload (arterial elastance [Ea]), and ventricular-arterial interaction (Ea/Ees) were measured with the use of a noninvasive single-beat technique. EIPH was defined as an estimated pulmonary arterial systolic pressure (PASP) of ≥50 mm Hg at 10 W of exercise. PASP was significantly increased during 10 W of exercise in both HF types, and ~50% of HFpEF patients developed EIPH. Arterial afterload was increased significantly during exercise in both groups. HFrEF and HFpEF patients showed a significant increase in LV contractility assessed by Ees, PRSW, and PWRI during exercise. Although Ea/Ees ratio decreased significantly in HFrEF, reduction in Ea/Ees was attenuated because of blunted Ees increases in patients with HFpEF compared with HFrEF. Even at low-level exercise, ~50% of HFpEF patients developed EIPH. Reduction in Ea/Ees was attenuated owing to less Ees increase in HFpEF compared with HFrEF. Further studies are needed to elucidate the association between ventricular-arterial coupling and EIPH in HFpEF. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Strategy making and power in environmental assessments. Lessons from the establishment of an out-of-town shopping centre in Vaesteras, Sweden

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

Isaksson, Karolina, E-mail: karolina.isaksson@vti.se; Storbjoerk, Sofie, E-mail: sofie.storbjork@liu.se

This paper seeks to provide deeper insights into how EA ineffectiveness is produced in land use planning practice. This is explored in a study of local development planning in the city of Vaesteras, Sweden. The case in question is the development of a large out-of-town shopping centre, propelled by the establishment of a new IKEA furniture store. The Healey (2007) framework of planning as strategy making is applied as an analytical framework, together with a focus on power-knowledge relations. In the analysis, we identify a range of mechanisms that produced ineffectiveness by limiting the role of environmental knowledge throughout themore » planning process. The specific mechanisms we identified were related to the overall consensus perspective in local development strategies and plans, a lack of concretisation and integration of various policies and strategies, a range of exclusion mechanisms and an overall focus on mitigation and benefits of the process in question. In practice, these mechanisms were closely intertwined. Our main conclusion is, consequently, that increased effectiveness of EA would require fundamental transformation of the norms, frameworks and routines that implicitly and explicitly guide land use planning in practice. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer We analyse how EA-ineffectiveness is produced in land use planning practice. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Several mechanisms produce EA-ineffectiveness throughout the whole planning process. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer These mechanisms are often closely intertwined and mutually reinforcing each other. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Enhancing EA-effectiveness requires a fundamental shift of the norms, frameworks and routines shaping planning practice.« less

Analysis of endogenous aldehydes in human urine by static headspace gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Serrano, María; Gallego, Mercedes; Silva, Manuel

2016-03-11

Endogenous aldehydes (EAs) generated during oxidative stress and cell processes are associated with many pathogenic and toxicogenic processes. The aim of this research was to develop a solvent-free and automated analytical method for the determination of EAs in human urine using a static headspace generator sampler coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-GC-MS). Twelve significant EAs used as markers of different biochemical and physiological processes, namely short- and medium-chain alkanals, α,β-unsaturated aldehydes and dicarbonyl aldehydes have been selected as target analytes. Human urine samples (no dilution is required) were derivatized with O-2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorobenzylhydroxylamine in alkaline medium (hydrogen carbonate-carbonate buffer, pH 10.3). The HS-GC-MS method developed renders an efficient tool for the sensitive and precise determination of EAs in human urine with limits of detection from 1 to 15ng/L and relative standard deviations, (RSDs) from 6.0 to 7.9%. Average recoveries by enriching urine samples ranged between 92 and 95%. Aldehydes were readily determined at 0.005-50μg/L levels in human urine from healthy subjects, smokers and diabetic adults. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-12-01

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

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

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

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

1985-01-01

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

Expression and effect of inhibition of aminopeptidase-A during nephrogenesis.

PubMed

Dijkman, Henry B P M; Assmann, Karel J M; Steenbergen, Eric J; Wetzels, Jack F M

2006-02-01

Aminopeptidase-A (APA) is a metalloprotease that cleaves N-terminal aspartyl and glutamyl residues from peptides. Its best-known substrate is angiotensin II (Ang II), the most active compound of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). The RAS is involved in renal development. Most components of the RAS system are expressed in the developing kidney. Thus far, APA has not been studied in detail. In the present study we have evaluated the expression of APA at the protein, mRNA, and enzyme activity (EA) level in the kidney during nephrogenesis. Furthermore, we have studied the effect of inhibiting APA EA by injection of anti-APA antibodies into 1-day-old mice. APA expression was observed from the comma stage onwards, predominantly in the developing podocytes and brush borders of proximal tubular cells. Notably, APA was absent in the medulla or the renal arterioles. Inhibition of APA EA caused temporary podocyte foot-process effacement, suggesting a minimum role for APA during nephrogenesis.

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

PubMed

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

2015-01-01

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

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

PubMed Central

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

2011-01-01

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

Topographic evolution of a continental indenter: The eastern Southern Alps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Robl, Jörg; Heberer, Bianca; Prasicek, Günther; Neubauer, Franz; Hergarten, Stefan

2017-04-01

The topographic evolution of the eastern Southern Alps (ESA) is controlled by the Late Oligocene - Early Miocene indentation of the Adriatic microplate into an overthickened orogenic wedge emplaced on top of the European plate. Rivers follow topographic gradients that evolve during continental collision and in turn incise into bedrock counteracting the formation of topography. In principle, erosional surface processes tend to establish a topographic steady state so that an interpretation of topographic metrics in terms of the latest tectonic history should be straightforward. However, a series of complications impede deciphering the topographic record of the ESA. The Pleistocene glaciations locally excavated alpine valleys and perturbed fluvial drainages. The Late Miocene desiccation of the Mediterranean Sea and the uplift of the northern Molasse Basin led to significant base level changes in the far field of the ESA and the Eastern Alps (EA), respectively. Among this multitude of mechanisms, the processes that dominate the current topographic evolution of the ESA and the ESA-EA drainage divide have not been identified and a number of questions regarding the interaction of crustal deformation, erosion and climate in shaping the present-day topography remain. We demonstrate the expected topographic effects of each mechanism in a 1-dimensional model and compare them with observed channel metrics. Modern uplift rates are largely consistent with long-term exhumation in the ESA and with variations in the normalized steepness index (ksn) indicating a stable uplift and erosion pattern since Miocene times. We find that ksn increases with uplift rate and declines from the indenter tip in the northwest to the foreland basin in the southeast. The number and magnitude of knickpoints and the distortion in longitudinal channel profiles similarly decrease towards the east. Most knickpoints probably evolved during Pleistocene glaciation cycles, but may represent the incrementally reactivated, buried incision signal triggered by the Messinian desiccation of the Mediterranean Sea. Changes in slope of χ-transformed channel profiles coincide spatially with the Valsugana - Fella fault linking crustal stacking and uplift induced by indenter tectonics with topographic evolution. Gradients in χ across the ESA-EA drainage divide imply an ongoing, north-directed shift of the Danube-ESA watershed. This implies that ESA streams spread to the domain of the EA by drainage divide migration and river capture events. As already observed in the Adige catchment, the Periadriatic fault system loses its significance for the morphological evolution of the EA-ESA. The observed northward migration of the ESA-EA drainage divide is most likely driven by a base level rise in the northern Molasse basin, which leads to a growth of the ESA and Rhine catchments at the expense of the Danube drainage area. We conclude that the regional uplift pattern controls the geometry of ESA-EA channels, while base level changes in the far field control the overall architecture of the orogen by drainage divide migration (Robl et al., 2016). Robl, J., B. Heberer, G. Prasicek, F. Neubauer, and S. Hergarten (2016), The topography of a continental indenter: The interplay between crustal deformation, erosion and base level changes in the eastern Southern Alps, J. Geophys. Res. Earth Surf., 121, doi:10.1002/2016JF003884.

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

PubMed

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

2008-07-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2016-10-24

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

Effect of electroacupuncture on thermal pain threshold and expression of calcitonin-gene related peptide, substance P and γ-aminobutyric acid in the cervical dorsal root ganglion of rats with incisional neck pain

PubMed Central

Qiao, Li-na; Liu, Jun-ling; Tan, Lian-hong; Yang, Hai-long; Zhai, Xu; Yang, Yong-sheng

2017-01-01

Objective Acupuncture therapy effectively reduces post-surgical pain, but its mechanism of action remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate whether expression of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and the neuropeptides substance P (SP) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the primary sensory neurons of cervical dorsal root ganglia (DRG) are involved in electroacupuncture (EA)-induced analgesia in a rat model of incisional neck pain. Methods The pain model was established by making a longitudinal midline neck incision in 60 rats. Another 15 rats underwent sham surgery (normal group). Post-incision, 15 rats remained untreated (model group) and 45 rats underwent EA (frequency 2/100 Hz, intensity 1 mA) at bilateral LI18, LI4-PC6 or ST36-GB34 (n=15 each) for 30 min at 4 hours, 24 hours, and 48 hours post-surgery, followed by thermal pain threshold (PT) measurement. 30 min later, the rats were euthanased and cervical (C3-6) DRGs removed for measurement of immunoreactivity and mRNA expression of SP/CGRP and the GABAergic neuronal marker glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 (GAD67). Results Thermal PT was significantly lower in the model group versus the normal group and increased in the LI18 and LI4-PC6 groups but not the ST36-GB34 group compared with the model group. Additionally, EA at LI18 and LI4-PC6 markedly suppressed neck incision-induced upregulation of mRNA/protein expression of SP/CGRP, and upregulated mRNA/protein expression of GAD67 in the DRGs of C3-6 segments. Conclusions EA at LI18/LI4-PC6 increases PT in rats with incisional neck pain, which is likely related to downregulation of pronociceptive mediators SP/CGRP and upregulation of the inhibitory transmitter GABA in the primary sensory neurons of cervical DRGs. PMID:28600329

Effect of electroacupuncture on thermal pain threshold and expression of calcitonin-gene related peptide, substance P and γ-aminobutyric acid in the cervical dorsal root ganglion of rats with incisional neck pain.

PubMed

Qiao, Li-Na; Liu, Jun-Ling; Tan, Lian-Hong; Yang, Hai-Long; Zhai, Xu; Yang, Yong-Sheng

2017-08-01

Acupuncture therapy effectively reduces post-surgical pain, but its mechanism of action remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate whether expression of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and the neuropeptides substance P (SP) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the primary sensory neurons of cervical dorsal root ganglia (DRG) are involved in electroacupuncture (EA)-induced analgesia in a rat model of incisional neck pain. The pain model was established by making a longitudinal midline neck incision in 60 rats. Another 15 rats underwent sham surgery (normal group). Post-incision, 15 rats remained untreated (model group) and 45 rats underwent EA (frequency 2/100 Hz, intensity 1 mA) at bilateral LI18, LI4-PC6 or ST36-GB34 (n=15 each) for 30 min at 4 hours, 24 hours, and 48 hours post-surgery, followed by thermal pain threshold (PT) measurement. 30 min later, the rats were euthanased and cervical (C3-6) DRGs removed for measurement of immunoreactivity and mRNA expression of SP/CGRP and the GABAergic neuronal marker glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 (GAD67). Thermal PT was significantly lower in the model group versus the normal group and increased in the LI18 and LI4-PC6 groups but not the ST36-GB34 group compared with the model group. Additionally, EA at LI18 and LI4-PC6 markedly suppressed neck incision-induced upregulation of mRNA/protein expression of SP/CGRP, and upregulated mRNA/protein expression of GAD67 in the DRGs of C3-6 segments. EA at LI18/LI4-PC6 increases PT in rats with incisional neck pain, which is likely related to downregulation of pronociceptive mediators SP/CGRP and upregulation of the inhibitory transmitter GABA in the primary sensory neurons of cervical DRGs. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Incontinence after primary repair of obstetric anal sphincter tears is related to relative length of reconstructed external sphincter: a case-control study.

PubMed

Norderval, S; Røssaak, K; Markskog, A; Vonen, B

2012-08-01

To determine if anatomic primary repair with end-to-end reconstruction of the external anal sphincter (EAS) in its full length combined with separate repair of coexisting internal anal sphincter (IAS) tear, when present, results in less incontinence and better anal sphincter integrity compared with conventional primary end-to-end repair in which the IAS is not actively reconstructed. Women who sustained third- or fourth-degree obstetric tears were included prospectively in the study following anatomic primary repair. Women treated with conventional primary repair prior to the study period comprised the control group. Three-dimensional endoanal ultrasonography (3D-EAUS) images were classified according to the EAUS defect score, and incontinence according to St Mark's score. Sixty-three women were included in the study group and 61 in the control group, with mean follow-up times of 11 and 21 months, respectively. Among women who had not delivered vaginally prior to the tear, St Mark's score ≥ 3 was reported by 9.6% (5/52) in the study group and 37.5% (15/40) in the control group at follow-up (P = 0.002). The corresponding numbers among women who had previously delivered vaginally were 36.4% (4/11) and 42.9% (9/21), respectively (non-significant). St Mark's score correlated with the EAUS defect score (P = 0.017). An EAS defect exceeding 50% of the sphincter length was significantly less common in the study group, and in a multivariable logistic regression model, mode of repair (anatomic vs conventional) was the only factor explaining the difference in EAS sphincter length between the two groups (P = 0.007). Improved continence status after anatomic primary repair was associated with a better longitudinal reconstruction of the EAS, while the integrity of the IAS did not differ between the groups. Women with a history of vaginal delivery prior to the sphincter tear had an inferior outcome regardless of mode of repair. Copyright © 2012 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Effect of Maternal Electroacupuncture on Perinatal Nicotine Exposure-Induced Lung Phenotype in Offspring.

PubMed

Ji, Bo; Zhao, Guo-Zhen; Sakurai, Reiko; Cao, Yu; Zhang, Zi-Jian; Wang, Dan; Yan, Ming-Na; Rehan, Virender K

2016-08-01

Pregnant women exposed to tobacco smoke predispose the offspring to many adverse consequences including an altered lung development and function. There is no effective therapeutic intervention to block the effects of smoke exposure on the developing lung. Clinical and animal studies demonstrate that acupuncture can modulate a variety of pathophysiological processes, including those involving the respiratory system; however, whether acupuncture affects the lung damage caused by perinatal smoke exposure is not known. To determine the effect of acupuncture on perinatal nicotine exposure on the developing lung, pregnant rat dams were administered (1) saline, (2) nicotine, or (3) nicotine + electroacupuncture (EA). Nicotine was administered (1 mg/kg subcutaneously) once a day and EA was applied to both "Zusanli" (ST 36) points. Both interventions were administered from gestational day 6 to postnatal day 21 (PND21), following which pups were sacrificed. Lungs, blood, and brain were collected to examine markers of lung injury, repair, and hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis. Concomitant EA application blocked nicotine-induced changes in lung morphology, lung peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ and wingless-int signaling, two key lung developmental signaling pathways, hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis (hypothalamic corticotropic releasing hormone and lung glucocorticoid receptor levels), and plasma β-endorphin levels. Electroacupuncture blocks the nicotine-induced changes in lung developmental signaling pathways and the resultant myogenic lung phenotype, known to be present in the affected offspring. We conclude that EA is a promising novel intervention against the smoke exposed lung damage to the developing lung.

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

PubMed

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

2011-09-26

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

[Spinocerebellar ataxias in infancy: pathogenesis of potassium and calcium channels' diseases, clinical features and therapeutical approach].

PubMed

Bozzola, E; Savasta, S; Peruzzi, C; Bozzola, M; Bona, G

2007-04-01

In infancy, the autosomal dominant inherited ataxias are severe neurological diseases, due to inherited mutations of ion channels. The main forms are: episodic ataxia type 1 (EA1), episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2), spinocerebellar ataxia type 6 (SCA6). EA1 is due to a mutation in KCNA1, the gene encoding human Kv1.1 on chromosome 12p13, which contributes as a subunit to the formation of potassium channels in motor nerve terminals and in many central nervous system neurones. To date, there are fifteen different mutations, which affect potassium channel's properties and lead to phenotypic variability and to different responses to therapy. EA2 can result from mutations in the CACNA1A gene, encoding calcium channels on chromosome 19p13.1 and widely distributed throughout the central nervous system. To date, associated with EA2, in the CACNA1A gene thirty different mutations have been described, resulting in altered or truncated protein products and, as a consequence, in nonfunctional calcium channels. There is phenotypic variability, also inside the same family, without correlation genotype-phenotype. SCA6 is a progressive neurodegenerative disease due to mutations of the CACNA1A gene. CACNA1A is responsible for both EA2 and SCA6. Nevertheless, the pathogenesis of the two diseases is different: SCA6 is associated with small expansion of a CAGn repeat, while EA2 is due to point mutations. Clinically, SCA6 is characterized by a slowly progressive development and by an inverse correlation between the number of repeats and the severity of the disease.

Development of probabilistic regional climate scenario in East Asia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dairaku, K.; Ueno, G.; Ishizaki, N. N.

2015-12-01

Climate information and services for Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability (IAV) Assessments are of great concern. In order to develop probabilistic regional climate information that represents the uncertainty in climate scenario experiments in East Asia (CORDEX-EA and Japan), the probability distribution of 2m air temperature was estimated by using developed regression model. The method can be easily applicable to other regions and other physical quantities, and also to downscale to finer-scale dependent on availability of observation dataset. Probabilistic climate information in present (1969-1998) and future (2069-2098) climate was developed using CMIP3 SRES A1b scenarios 21 models and the observation data (CRU_TS3.22 & University of Delaware in CORDEX-EA, NIAES AMeDAS mesh data in Japan). The prototype of probabilistic information in CORDEX-EA and Japan represent the quantified structural uncertainties of multi-model ensemble experiments of climate change scenarios. Appropriate combination of statistical methods and optimization of climate ensemble experiments using multi-General Circulation Models (GCMs) and multi-regional climate models (RCMs) ensemble downscaling experiments are investigated.

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

PubMed

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

2017-07-01

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

47 CFR 11.32 - EAS Encoder.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2009-09-01

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

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

Hu, L; Yin, F; Cai, J

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

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

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

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

Managing changes in the enterprise architecture modelling context

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

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

2016-07-01

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

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

PubMed Central

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

2016-01-01

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

Maternal Emotional Availability and Its Association with Maternal Psychopathology, Attachment Style Insecurity and Theory of Mind.

PubMed

Licata, Maria; Zietlow, Anna-Lena; Träuble, Birgit; Sodian, Beate; Reck, Corinna

High maternal emotional availability (EA) positively affects various domains of child development. However, the question of which factors promote or hinder maternal EA has not been investigated systematically. The present study investigated several maternal characteristics, namely maternal psychopathology, maternal attachment style insecurity, and theory of mind (ToM) as possible factors that influence maternal EA. The sample was comprised of 56 mothers and their preschool-aged children. Half of the mothers were diagnosed with postpartum depression and or anxiety disorders according to DSM-IV, and the other half were healthy controls. The results showed that both low maternal attachment style insecurity and high ToM skills significantly predicted maternal EA sensitivity, independently from maternal postpartum and concurrent psychopathology and education. Moreover, maternal attachment style insecurity fully mediated the link between maternal postpartum psychopathology and sensitivity. The findings suggest that maternal attachment style security can buffer negative effects of maternal psychopathology on maternal sensitivity in the mother-child interaction. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Understanding the Association of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Breast Cancer Among African American and European American Populations in South Carolina.

PubMed

Samson, Marsha E; Adams, Swann Arp; Orekoya, Olubunmi; Hebert, James R

2016-09-01

In South Carolina, the co-occurrence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and breast cancer (BrCA) is much more prevalent among African American populations than among European American populations. The underlying relationship between diabetes and breast cancer may influence breast cancer survival. The purpose of this investigation is to examine the effect of diabetes on developing breast cancer and to reduce racial disparities in breast cancer outcomes. Study participants included women of European American (EA) and African American (AA) ethnicity from both the Medicaid ICD-9 designations and the South Carolina Central Cancer Registry (SCCCR). A historical prospective cohort design was used to determine the risk of developing breast cancer among women of different ethnicities with and without DM. The chi-square test was used to determine the significance of the association; the logistic model was used to assess the relationship between breast cancer and other factors among EA and AA women. Menopause may have protective properties for AA compared to EA women. AA women have twice the odds of not surviving from each breast cancer stage compared to EA women with respect to their breast cancer stage. Adherence to diabetes medication may contribute to lower breast cancer death in EA. This study illustrates the discrepancy between EA and AA women in terms of breast cancer survival. AA women bear a higher disease burden than EA women. To create ethnic-appropriate public health policies, it is imperative that we understand the effect of comorbidities on breast cancer and how we can prevent them from occurring.

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

PubMed

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

2013-01-01

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

Apolipoprotein L1 and Chronic Kidney Disease Risk in Young Potential Living Kidney Donors.

PubMed

Locke, Jayme E; Sawinski, Deirdre; Reed, Rhiannon D; Shelton, Brittany; MacLennan, Paul A; Kumar, Vineeta; Mehta, Shikha; Mannon, Roslyn B; Gaston, Robert; Julian, Bruce A; Carr, John J; Terry, James G; Kilgore, Meredith; Massie, Allan B; Segev, Dorry L; Lewis, Cora E

2018-06-01

The aim of this study was to develop a novel chronic kidney disease (CKD) risk prediction tool for young potential living kidney donors. Living kidney donor selection practices have evolved from examining individual risk factors to a risk calculator incorporating multiple characteristics. Owing to limited long-term data and lack of genetic information, current risk tools lack precision among young potential living kidney donors, particularly African Americans (AAs). We identified a cohort of young adults (18-30 years) with no absolute contraindication to kidney donation from the longitudinal cohort study Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults. Risk associations for CKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m) were identified and assigned weighted points to calculate risk scores. A total of 3438 healthy adults were identified [mean age 24.8 years; 48.3% AA; median follow-up 24.9 years (interquartile range: 24.5-25.2)]. For 18-year olds, 25-year projected CKD risk varied by ethnicity and sex even without baseline clinical and genetic abnormalities; risk was 0.30% for European American (EA) women, 0.52% for EA men, 0.52% for AA women, 0.90% for AA men. Among 18-year-old AAs with apolipoprotein L1 gene (APOL1) renal-risk variants without baseline abnormalities, 25-year risk significantly increased: 1.46% for women and 2.53% for men; among those with 2 APOL1 renal-risk variants and baseline abnormalities, 25-year risk was higher: 2.53% to 6.23% for women and 4.35% to 10.58% for men. Young AAs were at highest risk for CKD, and APOL1 renal-risk variants drove some of this risk. Understanding the genetic profile of young AA potential living kidney donors in the context of baseline health characteristics may help to inform candidate selection and counseling.

Alpha-lipoic acid improves subclinical left ventricular dysfunction in asymptomatic patients with type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Hegazy, Sahar K; Tolba, Osama A; Mostafa, Tarek M; Eid, Manal A; El-Afify, Dalia R

2013-01-01

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy. Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a powerful antioxidant that may have a protective role in diabetic cardiac dysfunction. We investigated the possible beneficial effect of alpha-lipoic acid on diabetic left ventricular (LV) dysfunction in children and adolescents with asymptomatic type 1 diabetes (T1D). Thirty T1D patients (aged 10-14) were randomized to receive insulin treatment (n = 15) or insulin plus alpha-lipoic acid 300 mg twice daily (n = 15) for four months. Age and sex matched healthy controls (n = 15) were also included. Patients were evaluated with conventional 2-dimensional echocardiographic examination (2D), pulsed tissue Doppler (PTD), and 2-dimensional longitudinal strain echocardiography (2DS) before and after therapy. Glutathione, malondialdhyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), Fas ligand (Fas-L), matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), and troponin-I were determined and correlated to echocardiographic parameters. Diabetic patients had significantly lower levels of glutathione and significantly higher MDA, NO, TNF-alpha, Fas-L, MMP-2, and troponin-I levels than control subjects. The expression of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells was also increased in diabetic patients. Significant correlations of mitral e'/a' ratio and left ventricular global peak systolic strain with glutathione, MDA, NO, TNF-alpha, and Fas-L were observed in diabetic patients. Alpha-lipoic acid significantly increased glutathione level and significantly decreased MDA, NO, TNF-alpha, Fas-L, MMP-2, troponin-I levels, and TGF-beta gene expression. Moreover, alpha-lipoic acid significantly increased mitral e'/a' ratio and left ventricular global peak systolic strain in diabetic patients. These findings suggest that alpha-lipoic acid may have a role in preventing the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy in type 1 diabetes.

Electroacupuncture is not effective in chronic painful neuropathies.

PubMed

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

2011-12-01

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

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

PubMed

Mady, Fatma M; Shaker, Mohamed A

2017-01-01

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

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

PubMed Central

Mady, Fatma M; Shaker, Mohamed A

2017-01-01

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

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

PubMed Central

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

2012-01-01

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

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

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

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

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

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

47 CFR 11.34 - Acceptability of the equipment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

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

47 CFR 11.34 - Acceptability of the equipment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

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

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

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-11

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

Atlas Basemaps in Web 2.0 Epoch

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chabaniuk, V.; Dyshlyk, O.

2016-06-01

The authors have analyzed their experience of the production of various Electronic Atlases (EA) and Atlas Information Systems (AtIS) of so-called "classical type". These EA/AtIS have been implemented in the past decade in the Web 1.0 architecture (e.g., National Atlas of Ukraine, Atlas of radioactive contamination of Ukraine, and others). One of the main distinguishing features of these atlases was their static nature - the end user could not change the content of EA/AtIS. Base maps are very important element of any EA/AtIS. In classical type EA/AtIS they were static datasets, which consisted of two parts: the topographic data of a fixed scale and data of the administrative-territorial division of Ukraine. It is important to note that the technique of topographic data production was based on the use of direct channels of topographic entity observation (such as aerial photography) for the selected scale. Changes in the information technology of the past half-decade are characterized by the advent of the "Web 2.0 epoch". Due to this, in cartography appeared such phenomena as, for example, "neo-cartography" and various mapping platforms like OpenStreetMap. These changes have forced developers of EA/AtIS to use new atlas basemaps. Our approach is described in the article. The phenomenon of neo-cartography and/or Web 2.0 cartography are analysed by authors using previously developed Conceptual framework of EA/AtIS. This framework logically explains the cartographic phenomena relations of three formations: Web 1.0, Web 1.0x1.0 and Web 2.0. Atlas basemaps of the Web 2.0 epoch are integrated information systems. We use several ways to integrate separate atlas basemaps into the information system - by building: weak integrated information system, structured system and meta-system. This integrated information system consists of several basemaps and falls under the definition of "big data". In real projects it is already used the basemaps of three strata: Conceptual, Application and Operational. It is possible to use several variants of the basemap for each stratum. Furthermore, the developed methods of integration allow logically coordinate the application of different types of basemaps into a specific EA/AtIS. For example, such variants of the Conceptual strata basemap as the National map of Ukraine of our production and external resources such as OpenStreetMap are used with the help of meta-system replacement procedures. The authors propose a Conceptual framework of the basemap, which consists of the Conceptual solutions framework of the basemap and few Application solutions frameworks of the basemap. Conceptual framework is intended to be reused in many projects and significantly reduce the resources. We differentiate Application frameworks for mobile and non-mobile environments. The results of the research are applied in few EA produced in 2014-2015 at the Institute of Geography of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine. One of them is the Atlas of emergency situations. It includes elements that work on mobile devices. At its core it is "ubiquitous" subset of the Atlas.

Derivation of hydrous pyrolysis kinetic parameters from open-system pyrolysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tseng, Yu-Hsin; Huang, Wuu-Liang

2010-05-01

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

Effects of childhood trauma on personality in a sample of Chinese adolescents.

PubMed

Li, XianBin; Wang, ZhiMin; Hou, YeZhi; Wang, Ying; Liu, JinTong; Wang, ChuanYue

2014-04-01

Childhood trauma is a major public health problem which has an impact on personality development, yet no studies have examined the association between exposure to trauma and personality in a sample of Chinese adolescents. Four hundred eighty-five students completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire-Short Form (CTQ-SF) and the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ). The CTQ-SF cut-off scores for exposure were used to calculate the prevalence of trauma. The possible associations between specific types of trauma and the EPQ subscale scores were examined. The rates of emotional abuse (EA), physical abuse (PA), sexual abuse (SA), emotional neglect (EN), and physical neglect (PN) were 18.76%, 11.13%, 27.01%, 49.48%, and 68.66%, respectively. Individuals subjected to EA, PA, and SA had significantly higher neuroticism (EPQ-N) and psychoticism (EPQ-P) scores on the EPQ compared with those who had not experienced EA, PA, or SA (all p values<0.05). Significant positive correlations existed between CTQ-SF subscale scores for EA, SA, CTQ-SF total scores, and EPQ-N, EPQ-P scores (all p values<0.05). Significant number of subjects in this adolescent sample reported experience of childhood abuse and neglect. Exposure to childhood trauma is associated with personality development in Chinese adolescents. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

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

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

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

2018-03-01

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

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

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-06-14

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

Increased antibody responses to Herpes virus papio (HVP) antigens in pre-lymphomatous baboons (Papio hamadryas) of the Sukhumi high lymphoma stock.

PubMed

Voevodin, A F; Yakovleva, L A; Lapin, B A; Ponomarjeva, T I

1983-11-15

Antibody responses to Herpes virus papio (HVP) antigens were studied in 21 pre-lymphoma baboons (which subsequently died of malignant lymphoma), 21 paired controls, i.e. age-, sex- and population-matched healthy baboons, and 185 randomly selected healthy baboons of the same population. The sera were all collected at the same time and were tested blind in the fixed-cell indirect immunofluorescence test against HVP viral capsid antigen (VCA)-positive, early antigen (EA)-positive cell targets before and after absorption with HVP. Eleven of the pre-lymphoma sera were anti-EA-positive whereas none of the paired controls contained anti-EA. Anti-VCA titers of pre-lymphoma sera were higher than those of paired controls in thirteen cases. Only in four cases were anti-VCA titers of pre-lymphoma sera lower than those of paired controls. Qualitatively, the same results were obtained when anti-VCA and anti-EA titers of pre-lymphoma sera were compared with respective mean population values. The differences between pre-lymphoma group and control groups, especially in the case of anti-EA, were statistically highly significant. Thus, elevated anti-HVP titers in healthy baboons of the Sukhumi lymphoma-prone stock can be considered as a marker of high risk for development of malignant lymphoma.

The HGF Receptor c-Met Is Overexpressed in Esophageal Adenocarcinoma1

PubMed Central

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

2005-01-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2015-04-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2018-04-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2014-12-04

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

47 CFR 90.761 - EA and Regional licenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

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

47 CFR 90.761 - EA and Regional licenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

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

7 CFR 1794.23 - Proposals normally requiring an EA.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

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

7 CFR 1794.23 - Proposals normally requiring an EA.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

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

7 CFR 1794.23 - Proposals normally requiring an EA.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

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

Devices That May Interfere with Pacemakers

MedlinePlus

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

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

PubMed

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

1998-04-01

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

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

PubMed Central

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

2014-01-01

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

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

PubMed Central

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

2013-01-01

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

Prevention of Emergence Agitation with Ketamine in Rhinoplasty.

PubMed

Demir, Canser Yilmaz; Yuzkat, Nureddin

2018-06-01

Emergence agitation (EA), defined as restlessness, disorientation, excitation, and/or inconsolable crying, is a common phenomenon during early recovery from general anesthesia. In this study, we aimed to determine the (1) EA incidence after rhinoplasty operations in adults; (2) the effects of ketamine administered at sub-anesthetic doses just 20 min before the end of the surgery in rhinoplasty operations on agitation level, postoperative pain, side effects, and complications; and (3) to determine the risk factors for EA in adults after rhinoplasty. Totally 140 patients scheduled to undergo elective rhinoplasty were enrolled in this prospective study. Patients were equally and randomly divided into two groups: saline group (control group) (n = 70) and ketamine group (n = 70). Twenty minutes before surgery completion, 1 ml saline was administered via the intravenous (i.v.) route to the saline group, while 0.5 mg/kg ketamine was administered via i.v. patients in the ketamine group. The emergence agitation level of the patients was evaluated using the Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale just after extubation and in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). For postoperative pain evaluation, the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) was scored (from 0 to 10) every 10 min until the patients were discharged from PACU. EA incidence in the control group was as high as 54.3%, while in the ketamine group it was 8.6% just after extubation (p < 0.001). In the PACU, EA incidence was 28.6% in the control group, while none of the patients had EA in the PACU in the ketamine group (p < 0.001). Male gender, severe pain (NRS ≥ 5), and smoking were defined as significant risk factors for EA both after extubation and during follow-ups in the PACU (p < 0.001). Emergence agitation after rhinoplasty is a common complication, likely disturbing operative outcomes in adults. Ketamine at sub-anesthetic doses is highly effective in preventing EA. Further, larger-scale prospective studies are warranted to determine preventive measures for EA development in rhinoplasty. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

[The actor effect and the partner effect of self-esteem and mother-adolescent communication on depression in mothers and adolescents in Kirogi families according to adolescent' development stage].

PubMed

Yun, Eun Kyung; Shin, Sung Hee

2010-10-01

This study was conducted to compare the level of depression, self-esteem and mother-adolescent (M-A) communication perceived by both mothers and adolescents between the early adolescent (E-A) group and the late adolescent (L-A) group; and to examine the actor effect and the partner effect of self-esteem and M-A communication on depression in mothers and adolescents. Participants were 107 Kirogi families who resided in the Midwest region of the U. S. Data were collected from September, 2008 to March, 2009 using the scales of Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D), Self-esteem and Parent-Adolescent Communication Inventory. Mothers in E-A group reported higher scores on depression than mothers in L-A group. Adolescents in L-A group reported higher scores on depression and lower scores on self-esteem than adolescents in E-A group. In the E-A group, mothers' self-esteem had big actor effect on mothers' depression and partner effect on adolescents' depression. In the L-A group, self-esteem of mothers and adolescents had actor effect on their depression respectively without partner effect. M-A communication of mothers influences mothers' depression negatively and adolescents' depression positively. In both group, M-A communication influences their depression with mediating effect of self-esteem. To promote Kirogi families' mental health, programs for mothers and adolescents should be developed differently according to adolescents' development stage.

The effect of electroacupuncture and tramadol on experimental tourniquet pain.

PubMed

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

2012-03-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

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

Quantum Mechanical Calculations of Monoxides of Silicon Carbide Molecules

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-03-01

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

Improved Methods for Electroacupuncture and Electromyographic Recordings in Normal and Parkinsonian Rhesus Monkeys

PubMed Central

Zhao, Feng; Fan, Xiaotong; Grondin, Richard; Edwards, Ramsey; Forman, Eric; Moorehead, Jennifer; Gerhardt, Greg; Wang, Xiaomin; Zhang, Zhiming

2010-01-01

Although acupuncture has been widely and routinely used in healthcare in the USA, its use has been based more on empirical observation than on scientific knowledge. Therefore, there is a great need for better understanding the underlying mechanism(s) of action. A great body of evidence supports that nonhuman primates are a candidate for studying human diseases. However, the use of nonhuman primates in neurophysiological, neuroimaging and neurochemical studies is extremely challenging, especially under fully conscious, alert conditions. In the present study, we developed a protocol for safely performing acupuncture, electro-acupuncture (EA) and electromyography (EMG) in both normal nonhuman primates and animals with parkinsonian-like symptoms. Four normal and four hemiparkinsonian middle-aged rhesus monkeys were extensively trained, behaviorally monitored, and received both EA and EMG for several months. The results demonstrated that (1) all rhesus monkeys used in the study could be trained for procedures including EA and EMG; (2) all animals tolerated the procedures involving needle/electrode insertion; (3) EA procedures used in the study did not adversely alter the animal’s locomotor activities; rather, MPTP-treated animals showed a significant improvement in movement speed; and (4) EMG detected significant differences in muscle activity between the arms with and without MPTP-induced rigidity. Our results support that rhesus monkeys can be used as an experimental animal model to study EA and that EMG has the potential to be used to objectively assess the effects of antiparkinsonian therapies. The results also indicate that animals, especially those with parkinsonian-like symptoms, could benefit from long-term EA stimulations. PMID:20654649

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

PubMed

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

2017-05-01

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

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

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

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

Ellagic acid inhibits iron-mediated free radical formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dalvi, Luana T.; Moreira, Daniel C.; Andrade, Roberto; Ginani, Janini; Alonso, Antonio; Hermes-Lima, Marcelo

2017-02-01

Polyphenols are reported to have some health benefits, which are link to their antioxidant properties. In the case of ellagic acid (EA), there is evidence that it has free radical scavenger properties and that it is able to form complexes with metal ions. However, information on a possible link between the formation of iron-EA complexes and their interference in Haber-Weiss/Fenton reactions was not yet determined. Thus, the present study investigated the in vitro antioxidant mechanism of EA in a system containing ascorbate, Fe(III) and different iron ligands (EDTA, citrate and NTA). Iron-mediated oxidative degradation of 2-deoxyribose was poorly inhibited (by 12%) in the presence of EA (50 μM) and EDTA. When citrate or NTA - which form weak iron complexes - were used, the 2-deoxyribose protection increased to 89-97% and 45%, respectively. EA also presented equivalent inhibitory effects on iron-mediated oxygen uptake and ascorbyl radical formation. Spectral analyses of iron-EA complexes show that EA removes Fe(III) from EDTA within hours, and from citrate within 1 min. This difference in the rate of iron-EA complex formation may explain the antioxidant effects of EA. Furthermore, the EA antioxidant effectiveness was inversely proportional to the Fe(III) concentration, suggesting a competition with EDTA. In conclusion, the results indicate that EA may prevent in vitro free radical formation when it forms a complex with iron ions.

Investigation of the Dynamics of Low-Tension Cables

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-06-01

chapter 3. An implicit time domain routine is nec- essary as the high propagation speed of elastic waves would require prohibitively small time-step...singularities by ensuring smooth curvature. However, sustained boundary layers are found to develop, demonstrating the importance of the underlying physical...chain and elastic chain, EA* = 4.0 x 103 ............... 124 3.10 Mode shape for tension variation due to elastic waves , using EA* - 4.0 x 103.125 6.11

Evaluation of antiviral activities of Houttuynia cordata Thunb. extract, quercetin, quercetrin and cinanserin on murine coronavirus and dengue virus infection.

PubMed

Chiow, K H; Phoon, M C; Putti, Thomas; Tan, Benny K H; Chow, Vincent T

2016-01-01

To evaluate the in vitro activities of the ethyl acetate (EA) fraction of Houttuynia cordata (H. cordata) Thunb. (Saururaceae) and three of its constituent flavonoids (quercetin, quercitrin and rutin) against murine coronavirus and dengue virus (DENV). The antiviral activities of various concentrations of the EA fraction of H. cordata and flavonoids were assessed using virus neutralization tests against mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) and DENV type 2 (DENV-2). Cinanserin hydrochloride was also tested against MHV. The EA fraction of H. cordata was tested for acute oral toxicity in C57BL/6 mice. The EA fraction of H. cordata inhibited viral infectivity up to 6 d. Cinanserin hydrochloride was able to inhibit MHV for only 2 d. The 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of the EA fraction of H. cordata added before the viral adsorption stage were 0.98 μg/mL for MHV and 7.50 μg/mL for DENV-2 with absence of cytotoxicity. The mice fed with the EA fraction up to 2000 mg/kg did not induce any signs of acute toxicity, with normal histological features of major organs. Certain flavonoids exhibited comparatively weaker antiviral activity, notably quercetin which could inhibit both MHV and DENV-2. This was followed by quercitrin which could inhibit DENV-2 but not MHV, whereas rutin did not exert any inhibitory effect on either virus. When quercetin was combined with quercitrin, enhancement of anti-DENV-2 activity and reduced cytotoxicity were observed. However, the synergistic efficacy of the flavonoid combination was still less than that of the EA fraction. The compounds in H. cordata contribute to the superior antiviral efficacy of the EA fraction which lacked cytotoxicity in vitro and acute toxicity in vivo. H. cordata has much potential for the development of antiviral agents against coronavirus and dengue infections. Copyright © 2016 Hainan Medical College. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Late onset hereditary episodic ataxia.

PubMed

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

2009-05-01

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

ESPGHAN-NASPGHAN Guidelines for the Evaluation and Treatment of Gastrointestinal and Nutritional Complications in Children With Esophageal Atresia-Tracheoesophageal Fistula.

PubMed

Krishnan, Usha; Mousa, Hayat; Dall'Oglio, Luigi; Homaira, Nusrat; Rosen, Rachel; Faure, Christophe; Gottrand, Frédéric

2016-11-01

Esophageal atresia (EA) is one of the most common congenital digestive anomalies. With improvements in surgical techniques and intensive care treatments, the focus of care of these patients has shifted from mortality to morbidity and quality-of-life issues. These children face gastrointestinal (GI) problems not only in early childhood but also through adolescence and adulthood. There is, however, currently a lack of a systematic approach to the care of these patients. The GI working group of International Network on Esophageal Atresia comprises members from ESPGHAN/NASPGHAN and was charged with the task of developing uniform evidence-based guidelines for the management of GI complications in children with EA. Thirty-six clinical questions addressing the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of the common GI complications in patients with EA were formulated. Questions on the diagnosis, and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux, management of "cyanotic spells," etiology, investigation and management of dysphagia, feeding difficulties, anastomotic strictures, congenital esophageal stenosis in EA patients were addressed. The importance of excluding eosinophilic esophagitis and associated GI anomalies in symptomatic patients with EA is discussed as is the quality of life of these patients and the importance of a systematic transition of care to adulthood. A systematic literature search was performed from inception to March 2014 using Embase, MEDLINE, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Clinical Trials, and PsychInfo databases. The approach of the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation was applied to evaluate outcomes. During 2 consensus meetings, all recommendations were discussed and finalized. The group members voted on each recommendation, using the nominal voting technique. Expert opinion was used where no randomized controlled trials were available to support the recommendation.

Cardiac function, myocardial mechano-energetic efficiency, and ventricular-arterial coupling in normal pregnancy.

PubMed

Iacobaeus, Charlotte; Andolf, Ellika; Thorsell, Malin; Bremme, Katarina; Östlund, Eva; Kahan, Thomas

2018-04-01

To assess cardiac function, myocardial mechanoenergetic efficiency (MEE), and ventricular-arterial coupling (VAC) longitudinally during normal pregnancy, and to study if there was an association between cardiac structure and function, and fetal growth. Cardiac structure and function, MEE, and ventricular-arterial coupling was assessed longitudinally in 52 healthy nulliparous women at 14, 24, and 34 weeks' gestation and 9-month postpartum. Left atrial diameter increased during pregnancy (30.41 ± 3.59 mm in the nonpregnant state and 31.02 ± 3.91, 34.06 ± 3.58, and 33.9 ± 2.97 mm in the first, second, and third trimesters, P < 0.001). Left ventricular mass increased 117.12 ± 45.0 g in the nonpregnant state and 116.5 ± 33.0, 126.9 ± 34.5, 128.4 ± 36 g in the first, second, and third trimesters (P < 0.001). Cardiac output increased from 3.4 ± 1.2 l/min to 4.3 ± 0.7 l/min in the second and third trimesters (P < 0.001). Diastolic function decreased as both E/A and e'/a' decreased during pregnancy (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively). MEE and VAC were retained during pregnancy. Heart rate was associated with birth weight centile in the first (r = 0.41, P = 0.002) and second (r = 0.46, P = 0.002) trimester. The increase in cardiac output during normal pregnancy is obtained by an increase in heart rate, followed by structural cardiac changes. The impaired systolic function is accomplished by a deteriorated diastolic function. Despite these rapid changes, the myocardium manages to work efficient with a preserved MEE. Cardiac and arterial adaption to pregnancy seems to appear parallel as evidenced by a preserved VAC.

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

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-05-01

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

Improved Evolutionary Hybrids for Flexible Ligand Docking in Autodock

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

Belew, R.K.; Hart, W.E.; Morris, G.M.

1999-01-27

In this paper we evaluate the design of the hybrid evolutionary algorithms (EAs) that are currently used to perform flexible ligand binding in the Autodock docking software. Hybrid EAs incorporate specialized operators that exploit domain-specific features to accelerate an EA's search. We consider hybrid EAs that use an integrated local search operator to reline individuals within each iteration of the search. We evaluate several factors that impact the efficacy of a hybrid EA, and we propose new hybrid EAs that provide more robust convergence to low-energy docking configurations than the methods currently available in Autodock.

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

PubMed

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

2012-08-01

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

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

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-03-01

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

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

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Satibi; Widodo, Catur Edi; Farikhin

2018-02-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2018-04-01

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

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

PubMed Central

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

2010-01-01

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

Mass production of extensive air showers for the Pierre Auger Collaboration using Grid Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lozano Bahilo, Julio; Pierre Auger Collaboration

2012-06-01

When ultra-high energy cosmic rays enter the atmosphere they interact producing extensive air showers (EAS) which are the objects studied by the Pierre Auger Observatory. The number of particles involved in an EAS at these energies is of the order of billions and the generation of a single simulated EAS requires many hours of computing time with current processors. In addition, the storage space consumed by the output of one simulated EAS is very high. Therefore we have to make use of Grid resources to be able to generate sufficient quantities of showers for our physics studies in reasonable time periods. We have developed a set of highly automated scripts written in common software scripting languages in order to deal with the high number of jobs which we have to submit regularly to the Grid. In spite of the low number of sites supporting our Virtual Organization (VO) we have reached the top spot on CPU consumption among non LHC (Large Hadron Collider) VOs within EGI (European Grid Infrastructure).

Evolutionary optimization methods for accelerator design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Poklonskiy, Alexey A.

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

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

PubMed

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

2017-02-14

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

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

PubMed Central

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

2013-01-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2011-06-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2014-04-01

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

EA 18G Growler Aircraft (EA 18G)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-01

10051.9 N/A 13186.9 8636.4 11550.1 15672.4 1 APB Breach Confidence Level Confidence Level of cost estimate for current APB: 50% The current...estimate recommendation aims to provide sufficient resources to execute the program under normal conditions, encountering average levels of technical...TY $M) Initial PAUC Development Estimate Changes PAUC Production Estimate Econ Qty Sch Eng Est Oth Spt Total 93.573 4.150 1.442 -0.319 0.947 -0.348

Experiential avoidance as a generalized psychological vulnerability: comparisons with coping and emotion regulation strategies.

PubMed

Kashdan, Todd B; Barrios, Velma; Forsyth, John P; Steger, Michael F

2006-09-01

Extending previous work, we conducted two studies concerning the toxic influences of experiential avoidance (EA) as a core mechanism in the development and maintenance of psychological distress, and disruption of pleasant, engaging, and spontaneous activity. Of particular interest was whether EA accounted for relationships between coping and emotion regulation strategies on anxiety-related pathology (Study 1) and psychological distress and hedonic functioning over the course of a 21-day monitoring period (Study 2). In Study 1, EA mediated the effects of maladaptive coping, emotional responses styles, and uncontrollability on anxiety-related distress (e.g., anxiety sensitivity, trait anxiety, suffocation fears, and body sensation fears). In Study 2, EA completely mediated the effects of two emotion regulation strategies (i.e., suppression and reappraisal) on daily negative and positive experiences and was associated with diminished daily positive affective experiences and healthy life appraisals, diminished frequency of positive events and more frequent negative life events, and greater negative affective experiences. The present data show that cognitive reappraisal, a primary process of traditional cognitive-behavior therapy, was much less predictive of the quality of psychological experiences and events in everyday life compared with EA. Further consideration of experiential avoidance as a generalized diathesis and toxic process will be useful in improving our understanding of the etiology, phenomenology, and treatment of anxiety conditions, general human suffering, and disruptions in hedonic capacity.

Enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli gains a competitive advantage by using ethanolamine as a nitrogen source in the bovine intestinal content.

PubMed

Bertin, Yolande; Girardeau, J P; Chaucheyras-Durand, F; Lyan, Bernard; Pujos-Guillot, Estelle; Harel, Josée; Martin, Christine

2011-02-01

The bovine gastrointestinal tract is the main reservoir for enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) responsible for food-borne infections. Characterization of nutrients that promote the carriage of these pathogens by the ruminant would help to develop ecological strategies to reduce their survival in the bovine gastrointestinal tract. In this study, we show for the first time that free ethanolamine (EA) constitutes a nitrogen source for the O157:H7 EHEC strain EDL933 in the bovine intestinal content because of induction of the eut (ethanolamine utilization) gene cluster. In contrast, the eut gene cluster is absent in the genome of most species constituting the mammalian gut microbiota. Furthermore, the eutB gene (encoding a subunit of the enzyme that catalyses the release of ammonia from EA) is poorly expressed in non-pathogenic E. coli. Accordingly, EA is consumed by EHEC but is poorly metabolized by endogenous microbiota of the bovine small intestine, including commensal E. coli. Interestingly, the capacity to utilize EA as a nitrogen source confers a growth advantage to E. coli O157:H7 when the bacteria enter the stationary growth phase. These data demonstrate that EHEC strains take advantage of a nitrogen source that is not consumed by the resident microbiota, and suggest that EA represents an ecological niche favouring EHEC persistence in the bovine intestine.

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

PubMed

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

2015-11-18

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

A chitosan/beta-glycerophosphate thermo-sensitive gel for the delivery of ellagic acid for the treatment of brain cancer.

PubMed

Kim, Sungwoo; Nishimoto, Satoru K; Bumgardner, Joel D; Haggard, Warren O; Gaber, M Waleed; Yang, Yunzhi

2010-05-01

We report here the development of a chitosan/beta-glycerophosphate(Ch/beta-GP) thermo-sensitive gel to deliver ellagic acid (EA) for cancer treatment. The properties of the Ch/beta-GP gels were characterized regarding chemical structure, surface morphology, and viscoelasticity. In vitro EA release rate from the EA loaded Ch/beta-GP gel and chitosan degradation rate were investigated. The anti-tumor effect of the EA loaded Ch/beta-GP gel on brain cancer cells (human U87 glioblastomas and rat C6 glioma cells) was evaluated by examining cell viability. Cell number and activity were monitored by the MTS assay. The Ch/beta-GP solution formed a heat-induced gel at body temperature, and the gelation temperature and time were affected by the final pH of the Ch/beta-GP solution. The lysozyme increased the EA release rate by 2.5 times higher than that in the absence of lysozyme. Dialyzed chitosan solution with final pH 6.3 greatly reduced the beta-GP needed for gelation, thereby significantly improving the biocompatibility of gel (p < 0.001). The chitosan gels containing 1% (w/v) of ellagic acid significantly reduced viability of U87 cells and C6 cells compared with the chitosan gels at 3 days incubation (p < 0.01, and p < 0.001, respectively). Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

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

PubMed Central

Kang, Inhae; Buckner, Teresa; Gu, Liwei

2016-01-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2017-04-01

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

Euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide.

PubMed

Swarte, N B; Heintz, A P

1999-12-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2014-10-01

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

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

PubMed Central

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

2014-01-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2018-01-01

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

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

PubMed Central

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

2018-01-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2009-12-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2014-10-01

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

Low Apgar score, neonatal encephalopathy and epidural analgesia during labour: a Swedish registry-based study.

PubMed

Törnell, S; Ekéus, C; Hultin, M; Håkansson, S; Thunberg, J; Högberg, U

2015-04-01

Maternal intrapartum fever (MF) is associated with neonatal sequelae, and women in labour who receive epidural analgesia (EA) are more likely to develop hyperthermia. The aims of this study were to investigate if EA and/or a diagnosis of MF were associated to adverse neonatal outcomes at a population level. Population-based register study with data from the Swedish Birth Register and the Swedish National Patient Register, including all nulliparae (n=294,329) with singleton pregnancies who gave birth at term in Sweden 1999-2008. Neonatal outcomes analysed were Apgar score (AS)<7 at 5 min and ICD-10 diagnosis of neonatal encephalopathy (e.g. convulsions or neonatal cerebral ischaemia). Multivariate logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). EA was used in 44% of the deliveries. Low AS or encephalopathy was found in 1.26% and 0.39% of the children in the EA group compared with 0.80% and 0.29% in the control group. In multivariate analysis, EA was associated with increased risk with low AS, AOR 1.27 (95% CI 1.16-1.39), but not with diagnosis of encephalopathy, 1.11 (0.96-1.29). A diagnosis of MF was associated with increased risk for both low AS, 2.27 (1.71-3.02), and of neonatal encephalopathy, 1.97 (1.19-3.26). Diagnosis of MF was associated with low AS and neonatal encephalopathy, whereas EA was only associated with low AS and not with neonatal encephalopathy. The found associations might be a result of confounding by indication, which is difficult to assess in a registry-based population study. © 2015 The Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Effects of larkspur (Delphinium barbeyi) on heart rate and electrically evoked electromyographic response of the external anal sphincter in cattle.

PubMed

Green, Benedict T; Pfister, James A; Cook, Daniel; Welch, Kevin D; Stegelmeier, Bryan L; Lee, Stephen T; Gardner, Dale R; Knoppel, Edward L; Panter, Kip E

2009-04-01

OBJECTIVE-To determine whether larkspur-derived N-(methylsuccinimido) anthranoyllycoctonine (MSAL)-type alkaloids alter heart rate and electrically evoked electromyographic (eEMG) response of the external anal sphincter (EAS) in cattle and whether these effects can be reversed by acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. ANIMALS-12 beef heifers and 4 cows. PROCEDURES-3 or 4 heifers were used in 1 or 2 of 7 dose-response experiments; heart rate and EAS eEMG response were assessed before and 24 hours after oral treatment with larkspur (doses equivalent to 0.5 to 15 mg of MSAL-type alkaloids/kg). In 3 subsequent experiments, 3 heifers (1 of which was replaced with another heifer in the control experiment) each received 10 mg of MSAL-type alkaloids/kg and were injected IV with physostigmine (0.04 mg/kg), neostigmine (0.04 mg/kg), or saline (0.9% NaCl) solution 24 hours later, prior to assessment. Additionally, EAS eEMG response was measured in 4 cows before and after epidural administration of 2% lidocaine hydrochloride. RESULTS-Larkspur-treated heifers developed dose-related increases in heart rate and decreases in EAS eEMG response. Twenty-four hours after administration of MSAL-type alkaloids, neostigmine decreased heart rate but did not affect eEMG response, whereas physostigmine did not affect heart rate but caused a 2-fold increase in eEMG response. In cows, epidural anesthesia did not alter eEMG response, suggesting that transdermal stimulation of the EAS pudendal innervation did not occur. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE-In cattle, cardiac effects and muscle weakness or loss of EAS eEMG response induced by larkspur-derived MSAL-type alkaloids were reversed by neostigmine or physostigmine, respectively. Treatment with anticholinesterase inhibitors may alter the clinical effects of larkspur poisoning in cattle.

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

PubMed

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

2015-06-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2011-06-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

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

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

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-03-07

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

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

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

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

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

Developmental state program for institutional conservation: Volume 7: Final technical report, 1 October 1986--30 September 1988

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

Not Available

1988-01-01

The state of New Mexico has contracted with Frank Bolek and Associates to perform an Energy Audit (EA) for San Jon Elementary and San Jon high School, and to organize data at the schools to assist the School District in developing a Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Preventive Maintenance (PM) program. The goal of both the EA and PM is to reduce energy consumption and operating costs of the schools.

How the Russian Federation Uses the Informational Instrument of National Power to Influence the Republic of Moldovas Strategic Security Policy

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-09

Power DoD Department of Defense EaP Eastern Partnership EaP CSF Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum EEU Eurasian Economic Union EU European...issues to consider when analyzing the context in which the propaganda occurs such as conflicts (past and present), the mood of the times, power struggles...development and sustainability of different NGOs as part of civil society .82 Joseph Nye refers to soft- power type resources as institutions, ideas

Exotic geophysical phenomena observed in an environmental neutron flux study using EAS PRISMA detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alekseenko, Victor; Bagrova, Anastasia; Cui, Shuwang; He, Yayun; Li, Bingbing; Ma, Xinhua; Pozdnyakov, Egor; Shchegolev, Oleg; Stenkin, Yuri; Stepanov, Vladimir

2017-06-01

Some exotic geophysical events are observed by a global net of electron-neutron detectors (en-detectors) developed in the framework of the PRISMA EAS project. Our en-detectors running both on the Earth's surface and underground are continuously measuring the environmental thermal neutron flux. Thermal neutrons are in equilibrium with media and are therefore sensitive to many geophysical phenomena, which are exotic for people studying ultra high-energy cosmic rays or carrying out low background experiments deep underground.

Supplemental Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Vernal Pool Restoration Project in Wing Infrastructure Development Outlook (WINDO) Implementation Plan EA, Volume 2 Beale Air Force Base, California

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-09-01

Mineral resources include metals, industrial minerals (e.g., aggregate, sand and gravel), oil and gas, and geothermal resources that would be of value...the elderberry shrub ( Sambucus sp.), is not present within the project action area. The proposed project is not likely to adversely affect the bald...impairing essential behavioral patterns, including breeding, feeding, or sheltering. Harass is defined by the Service as an action that creates the

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

PubMed

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

2010-04-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2017-05-05

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

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

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

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

2017-05-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2015-01-01

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

Energy calibration of the fly's eye detector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baltrusaitis, R. M.; Cassiday, G. L.; Cooper, R.; Elbert, J. W.; Gerhardy, P. R.; Ko, S.; Loh, E. C.; Mizumoto, Y.; Sokolsky, P.; Steck, D.

1985-01-01

The methods used to calibrate the Fly's eye detector to evaluate the energy of EAS are discussed. The energy of extensive air showers (EAS) as seen by the Fly's Eye detector are obtained from track length integrals of observed shower development curves. The energy of the parent cosmic ray primary is estimated by applying corrections to account for undetected energy in the muon, neutrino and hadronic channels. Absolute values for E depend upon the measurement of shower sizes N sub e(x). The following items are necessary to convert apparent optical brightness into intrinsical optical brightness: (1) an assessment of those factors responsible for light production by the relativistic electrons in an EAS and the transmission of light thru the atmosphere, (2) calibration of the optical detection system, and (3) a knowledge of the trajectory of the shower.

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

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

32 CFR 775.5 - Classified actions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

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

36 CFR 1010.11 - Preparation of an EA.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

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

36 CFR 1010.11 - Preparation of an EA.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

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

36 CFR 1010.11 - Preparation of an EA.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

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

36 CFR 1010.11 - Preparation of an EA.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

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

47 CFR 11.18 - EAS Designations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

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

47 CFR 11.18 - EAS Designations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2018-05-23

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

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

PubMed

Riley, Ben

2014-03-01

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

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

PubMed Central

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

2015-01-01

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

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

PubMed

Dänicke, Sven

2017-03-28

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

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

PubMed Central

Dänicke, Sven

2017-01-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2017-01-01

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

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

PubMed

Wang, Fei; He, Bei

2013-01-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2017-09-01

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

Evaluation of a Multi-Axial, Temperature, and Time Dependent (MATT) Failure Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Richardson, D. E.; Anderson, G. L.; Macon, D. J.; Rudolphi, Michael (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

To obtain a better understanding the response of the structural adhesives used in the Space Shuttle's Reusable Solid Rocket Motor (RSRM) nozzle, an extensive effort has been conducted to characterize in detail the failure properties of these adhesives. This effort involved the development of a failure model that includes the effects of multi-axial loading, temperature, and time. An understanding of the effects of these parameters on the failure of the adhesive is crucial to the understanding and prediction of the safety of the RSRM nozzle. This paper documents the use of this newly developed multi-axial, temperature, and time (MATT) dependent failure model for modeling failure for the adhesives TIGA 321, EA913NA, and EA946. The development of the mathematical failure model using constant load rate normal and shear test data is presented. Verification of the accuracy of the failure model is shown through comparisons between predictions and measured creep and multi-axial failure data. The verification indicates that the failure model performs well for a wide range of conditions (loading, temperature, and time) for the three adhesives. The failure criterion is shown to be accurate through the glass transition for the adhesive EA946. Though this failure model has been developed and evaluated with adhesives, the concepts are applicable for other isotropic materials.

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

PubMed

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

2016-10-01

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

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

PubMed

Coleman, Nicholas V; Spain, Jim C

2003-10-01

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

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

PubMed Central

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

2015-01-01

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

Electroacupuncture pretreatment induces rapid tolerance to bupivacaine cardiotoxicity in rats.

PubMed

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

2016-12-01

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

Nucleus Ambiguus Cholinergic Neurons Activated by Acupuncture: Relation to Enkephalin

PubMed Central

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

2012-01-01

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

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

PubMed Central

Guo, Zhi-Ling; Longhurst, John C.

2007-01-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2016-10-01

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

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

PubMed Central

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

2015-01-01

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

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

PubMed Central

Kim, Sun-Young; Kim, Ho

2017-01-01

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

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

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

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

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

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

PubMed

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

2017-08-30

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

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

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

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

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

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

PubMed

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

2017-09-01

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

Effect of sonic and ultrasonic activation on organic tissue dissolution from simulated grooves in root canals using sodium hypochlorite and EDTA.

PubMed

Conde, A J; Estevez, R; Loroño, G; Valencia de Pablo, Ó; Rossi-Fedele, G; Cisneros, R

2017-10-01

To compare soft-tissue dissolution by sodium hypochlorite, with an EDTA intermediate rinse, with or without activation with passive ultrasonic activation (PUI) or sonic activation using the Endoactivator (EA) or Eddy tips (ED). The root canals of eighty-three human maxillary central incisors were chemo-mechanically prepared and the teeth split. A standardized longitudinal intracanal groove was created in one of the root halves. Eighty-three porcine palatal mucosa samples were collected, adapted to fit into the grooves and weighed. The re-assembled specimens were randomly divided into four experimental groups (n = 20), based on the final rinse: no activation; EA; PUI; ED, using 2.5% sodium hypochlorite, with an EDTA intermediate rinse. A control group (n = 3) was irrigated with distilled water without activation. The solutions were delivered using a syringe and needle 2 mm from working length. Total irrigation time was 150 s, including 60 s of activation in the specific groups. The study was carried out at 36 ± 2 °C. The porcine palatal mucosa samples were weighed after completion of the assays. Student paired t-test and anova were used to assess the intra- and intergroup weight changes. The multiple comparisons were evaluated using Bonferroni correction (α = 0.05). Weight loss occurred in all experimental groups. Irrigant activation resulted in greater weight loss when compared to the nonactivated group [vs. EA (P = 0.001); vs. PUI (P < 0.001); vs. ED (P < 0.001)]. No significant differences were found amongst the different activation systems. Activation increased the tissue-dissolving activity of irrigants from artificial grooves in root canals of maxillary central incisors. © 2016 International Endodontic Journal. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

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

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

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-09-05

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

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

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

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

47 CFR 11.61 - Tests of EAS procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

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

47 CFR 11.61 - Tests of EAS procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

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

47 CFR 11.61 - Tests of EAS procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

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

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

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-04-09

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

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

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-04

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

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

PubMed

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

2012-04-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2016-04-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2016-10-01

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

An SEM Assessment of the Internal Structure and Predictive Validity of the Abbreviated Early Adolescent HOME Inventory.

PubMed

Green, Samuel B; Pennar, Amy L; Bradley, Robert H

2018-05-01

The Home Observation for Measurement of the Environment (HOME) Inventory is designed to assess the quality and quantity of support, stimulation, and structure provided to children in the home environment. HOME has been widely used for research and applied purposes. We focused on an abbreviated version of the Early Adolescent HOME (EA-HOME-A) that was administered to 15-year-old adolescents and their parents ( N = 958) as part of the NICHD (National Institute of Child Health and Human Development) Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development. Our study had two objectives. First, we hypothesized and tested a bifactor model that specified a general factor in support of the use of the HOME total score and group factors for subsets of items in support of the content domain scores. Second, we applied structural equation modeling to relate the EA-HOME-A factors to outcome factors assessing maladaptive behaviors, autonomy, self-control, and cognitive-academic performance. The results supported the construct validity of the EA-HOME-A with respect to its internal structure as well as its correlates.

In Vitro Seeds Germination and Seedling Growth of Bambara Groundnut (Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc. (Fabaceae)).

PubMed

Koné, Mongomaké; Koné, Tchoa; Silué, Nakpalo; Soumahoro, André Brahima; Kouakou, Tanoh Hilaire

2015-01-01

Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc.) is an indigenous grain legume. It occupies a prominent place in the strategies to ensure food security in sub-Saharan Africa. Development of an efficient in vitro regeneration system, a prerequisite for genetic transformation application, requires the establishment of optimal conditions for seeds germination and plantlets development. Three types of seeds were inoculated on different basal media devoid of growth regulators. Various strengths of the medium of choice and the type and concentration of carbon source were also investigated. Responses to germination varied with the type of seed. Embryonic axis (EA) followed by seeds without coat (SWtC) germinated rapidly and expressed a high rate of germination. The growth performances of plantlets varied with the basal medium composition and the seeds type. The optimal growth performances of plants were displayed on half strength MS basal medium with SWtC and EA as source of seeds. Addition of 3% sucrose in the culture medium was more suitable for a maximum growth of plantlets derived from EA.

Experimental study of a hybrid electro-acoustic nonlinear membrane absorber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bryk, P. Y.; Bellizzi, S.; Côte, R.

2018-06-01

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

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

PubMed Central

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

2014-01-01

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

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

DOE PAGES

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

2014-10-06

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

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

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

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

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

EAS Cerenkov measurements of the composition of the cosmic ray flux around 10 to the 16th power eV

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dawson, B. R.; Prescott, J. R.; Clay, R. W.

1985-01-01

Information can be obtained about the nature of a primary cosmic ray by looking at the way in which an extensive air shower (EAS) develops in the atmosphere. Heavy nuclei give rise to showers that develop high in the atmosphere and the depth of maximum development is subjected to much smaller fluctuations than is the case for showers originating from protons. This development is followed by optical methods based on the observations of Cerenkov light or fluorescence light. The Cerenkov observations have two complementary techniques: measurement of the time profile of the Cerenkov pulse with resolution of a few nanoseconds and measurement of the lateral distribution of the Cerenkov light. In each case the measured quantities must be related to some characteristic development parameters.

Why attend school? Chinese immigrant and European American preschoolers' views and outcomes.

PubMed

Li, Jin; Yamamoto, Yoko; Luo, Lily; Batchelor, Andrea K; Bresnahan, Richard M

2010-11-01

The developing views of the purposes of school learning (PSLs) and related achievement among immigrant Chinese preschoolers and their European American (EA) age-mates were examined. Both culture and socioeconomic status (SES) were considered simultaneously, an often neglected research approach to studying Asian children. One hundred and fifty 4-year-olds-50 each of middle-class Chinese (CHM), low-income Chinese (CHL), and EA children-completed 2 story beginnings about school and were also tested for their language and math achievement. Results showed that 4-year-olds held sophisticated PSLs, ranging from intellectual to social and affect benefits. Large cultural and SES differences also emerged. CHM children mentioned more adult expectation and seriousness of learning than EA children who expressed more positive affect for self and compliance with adults. CHL children mentioned fewest PSLs. Achievement scores for oral expression of both immigrant groups were significantly lower than those of EA children despite similar reading and math achievement. Controlling for culture and SES, the authors found that children's articulated intellectual, but not other purposes, uniquely predicted their achievement in all tested domains. Cultural and SES influences on immigrant children are discussed.

Ellagic Acid Enhances the Efficacy of PI3K Inhibitor GDC-0941 in Breast Cancer Cells.

PubMed

Shi, L; Gao, X; Li, X; Jiang, N; Luo, F; Gu, C; Chen, M; Cheng, H; Liu, P

2015-01-01

The fact that the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway is one of the most frequently deregulated signaling networks has triggered intensive efforts in the development of PI3K pathway inhibitors. However, recent clinical trial data have shown only limited activity of PI3K inhibitors at tolerated doses. Thus, there is an urgent need to identify rational combination therapy to improve the efficacy of PI3K-targeted cancer treatment. In this study, we investigated if dietary compound ellagic acid (EA) could improve the therapeutic efficacy of PI3K inhibitor GDC-0941 in breast cancer. Specifically, using a panel of breast cancer cell lines, we showed that combined use of EA and GDC-0941 significantly inhibited cell growth under attached and detached conditions, blocked migration and invasion in vitro as well as tumor initiation and metastasis in vivo. Furthermore, we found that EA promoted apoptosis and further reduced AKT/mTOR activation in GDC-0941- treated breast cancer cells. Together, our data suggest that EA may be a safe and effective agent to boost the efficacy of PI3K-directed breast cancer therapy and that such drug combination may merit further clinical investigation.

Metabolomics of fescue toxicosis in grazing beef steers.

PubMed

Mote, Ryan S; Hill, Nicholas S; Uppal, Karan; Tran, ViLinh T; Jones, Dean P; Filipov, Nikolay M

2017-07-01

Fescue toxicosis (FT) results from consumption of tall fescue (Lolium arundinaceum) infected with an endophyte (Epichloë coenophiala) that produces ergot alkaloids (EA), which are considered key etiological agents of FT. Decreased weight gains, hormonal imbalance, circulating cholesterol disruption, and decreased volatile fatty acid absorption suggest toxic (E+) fescue-induced metabolic perturbations. Employing untargeted high-resolution metabolomics (HRM) to analyze E+ grazing-induced plasma and urine metabolome changes, fescue-naïve Angus steers were placed on E+ or non-toxic (Max-Q) fescue pastures and plasma and urine were sampled before, 1, 2, 14, and 28 days after pasture assignment. Plasma and urine catecholamines and urinary EA concentrations were also measured. In E+ steers, urinary EA appeared early and peaked at 14 days. 13,090 urinary and 20,908 plasma HRM features were detected; the most significant effects were observed earlier (2 days) in the urine and later (≥14 days) in the plasma. Alongside EA metabolite detection, tryptophan and lipid metabolism disruption were among the main consequences of E+ consumption. The E+ grazing-associated metabolic pathways and signatures described herein may accelerate development of novel early FT detection and treatment strategies. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Space for action: How practitioners influence environmental assessment

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

Kågström, Mari, E-mail: mari.kagstrom@slu.se; Richardson, Tim, E-mail: tim.richardson@nmbu.no

2015-09-15

Highlights: • The concept of ‘space for action’ offers an important new lens on EA practice. • Focuses on the relation between practitioner's understanding and their actions • Environmental assessment practice is decisively shaped by practitioners. • Practitioners may underestimate their potential to make a difference. • Contributes to understanding change in the environmental assessment field. This article contributes to understanding of how change occurs in the field of environmental assessment (EA). It argues that the integration of new issues in EA, such as human health, is significantly influenced by how practitioners' understandings shape their actions, and by what happensmore » when those, possibly different, interpretations of appropriate action are acted out. The concept of space for action is developed as a means of investigating this relation between understanding and action. Frame theory is also used, to develop a sharper focus on how ‘potential spaces for action’ are created, what these imply for (individuals') preferred choices and actions in certain situations, and what happens in practice when these are acted out and ‘actual spaces for action’ are created. This novel approach is then applied in a Swedish case study of transport planning. The analysis reveals the important work done by practitioners, revealing just how EA practice is decisively shaped by practitioners. Analysis of practice using the lens of spaces for action offers an important new perspective in understanding how the field adapts to new challenges.« less

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

PubMed

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

2006-01-01

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

Activation energy of extracellular enzymes in soils from different biomes.

PubMed

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

2013-01-01

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

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

PubMed Central

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

2018-01-01

Background Educational attainment (EA) is inversely associated with colorectal cancer risk. Colorectal cancer screening can save lives if precancerous polyps or early cancers are found and successfully treated. This study aims to estimate the potential productivity loss (PPL) and associated avoidable colorectal cancer–related deaths among screen-eligible adults residing in lower EA counties in the United States. Methods Mortality and population data were used to examine colorectal cancer deaths (2008–2012) among adults aged 50 to 74 years in lower EA counties, and to estimate the expected number of deaths using the mortality experience from high EA counties. Excess deaths (observed–expected) were used to estimate potential years life lost, and the human capital method was used to estimate PPL in 2012 U.S. dollars. Results County-level colorectal cancer death rates were inversely associated with county-level EA. Of the 100,857 colorectal cancer deaths in lower EA counties, we estimated that more than 21,000 (1 in 5) was potentially avoidable and resulted in nearly $2 billion annual productivity loss. Conclusions County-level EA disparities contribute to a large number of potentially avoidable colorectal cancer–related deaths. Increased prevention and improved screening potentially could decrease deaths and help reduce the associated economic burden in lower EA communities. Increased screening could further reduce deaths in all EA groups. Impact These results estimate the large economic impact of potentially avoidable colorectal cancer–related deaths in economically disadvantaged communities, as measured by lower EA. PMID:28003180

100-Hz Electroacupuncture but not 2-Hz Electroacupuncture is Preemptive Against Postincision Pain in Rats.

PubMed

Silva, Marcelo Lourenço; Silva, Josie Resende Torres; Prado, Wiliam Alves

2016-08-01

Preemptive analgesia involves introducing an analgesic before noxious stimulation. Electroacupuncture (EA) activates descending mechanisms that modulate nociceptive inputs into the spinal dorsal horn. This study evaluated whether preoperative EA is more effective than postoperative EA in reducing incision pain in rats. The nociceptive threshold to mechanical stimulation was utilized to examine the effects of an intraperitoneal injection of saline (0.1 mL/kg) or naloxone (1 mg/kg) on antinociception induced by a 20-minute period of 2-Hz or 100-Hz EA applied to the Zusanli (ST36) and Sanyinjiao (SP6) acupoints before surgical incision, or 10 minutes after or 100 minutes after surgical incision of the hind paw. The extent of mechanical hyperalgesia after the incision was significantly attenuated by the application of 100-Hz EA preoperatively, but not by its application at 10 minutes or 100 minutes postoperatively. By contrast, 2-Hz EA was effective against postoperative hyperalgesia when applied 10 minutes or 100 minutes after surgery but not when it was applied preoperatively. Only the effect of 2-Hz EA applied 10 minutes after surgery was sensitive to naloxone. The present study showed for the first time that 100-Hz EA, but not 2-Hz EA, exerts a nonopioidergic preemptive effect against postincision pain in rats. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Epilobium angustifolium extract demonstrates multiple effects on dermal fibroblasts in vitro and skin photo-protection in vivo.

PubMed

Ruszová, Ema; Cheel, José; Pávek, Stanislav; Moravcová, Martina; Hermannová, Martina; Matějková, Ilona; Spilková, Jiřina; Velebný, Vladimír; Kubala, Lukáš

2013-09-01

Stress-induced fibroblast senescence is thought to contribute to skin aging. Ultraviolet light (UV) radiation is the most potent environmental risk factor in these processes. An Epilobium angustifolium (EA) extract was evaluated for its capacity to reverse the senescent response of normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) in vitro and to exhibit skin photo-protection in vivo. The HPLC-UV-MS analysis of the EA preparation identified three major polyphenol groups: tannins (oenothein B), phenolic acids (gallic and chlorogenic acids) and flavonoids. EA extract increased the cell viability of senescent NHDF induced by serum deprivation. It diminished connective tissue growth factor and fibronectin gene expressions in senescent NHDF. Down-regulation of the UV-induced release of both matrix metalloproteinase-1 and -3 and the tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases-1 and -2, and also down-regulation of the gene expression of hyaluronidase 2 were observed in repeatedly UV-irradiated NHDF after EA extract treatment. Interestingly, EA extract diminished the down-regulation of sirtuin 1 dampened by UV-irradiation. The application of EA extract using a sub-irritating dose protected skin against UV-induced erythema formation in vivo. In summary, EA extract diminished stress-induced effects on NHDF, particularly on connective tissue growth factor, fibronectin and matrix metalloproteinases. These results collectively suggest that EA extract may possess anti-aging properties and that the EA polyphenols might account for these benefits.

Evaluation of epidural analgesia for open major liver resection surgery from a US inpatient sample.

PubMed

Rosero, Eric B; Cheng, Gloria S; Khatri, Kinnari P; Joshi, Girish P

2014-10-01

The aim of this study was to assess the nationwide use of epidural analgesia (EA) and the incidence of postoperative complications in patients undergoing major liver resections (MLR) with and without EA in the United States. The 2001 to 2010 Nationwide Inpatient Sample was queried to identify adult patients undergoing MLR. A 1:1 matched cohort of patients having MLR with and without EA was assembled using propensity-score matching techniques. Differences in the rate of postoperative complications were compared between the matched groups. We identified 68,028 MLR. Overall, 5.9% of patients in the database had procedural codes for postoperative EA. A matched cohort of 802 patients per group was derived from the propensity-matching algorithm. Although use of EA was associated with more blood transfusions (relative risk, 1.36; 95% confidence interval, 1.12-1.65; P = 0.001) and longer hospital stay (median [interquartile range], 6 [5-8] vs 6 [4-8] days), the use of coagulation factors and the incidence of postoperative hemorrhage/hematomas or other postoperative complications were not higher in patients receiving EA. In conclusion, the use of EA for MLR is low, and EA does not seem to influence the incidence of postoperative complications. EA, however, was associated with an increased use of blood transfusions and a longer hospital stay.

Evaluation of epidural analgesia for open major liver resection surgery from a US inpatient sample

PubMed Central

Cheng, Gloria S.; Khatri, Kinnari P.; Joshi, Girish P.

2014-01-01

The aim of this study was to assess the nationwide use of epidural analgesia (EA) and the incidence of postoperative complications in patients undergoing major liver resections (MLR) with and without EA in the United States. The 2001 to 2010 Nationwide Inpatient Sample was queried to identify adult patients undergoing MLR. A 1:1 matched cohort of patients having MLR with and without EA was assembled using propensity-score matching techniques. Differences in the rate of postoperative complications were compared between the matched groups. We identified 68,028 MLR. Overall, 5.9% of patients in the database had procedural codes for postoperative EA. A matched cohort of 802 patients per group was derived from the propensity-matching algorithm. Although use of EA was associated with more blood transfusions (relative risk, 1.36; 95% confidence interval, 1.12–1.65; P = 0.001) and longer hospital stay (median [interquartile range], 6 [5–8] vs 6 [4–8] days), the use of coagulation factors and the incidence of postoperative hemorrhage/hematomas or other postoperative complications were not higher in patients receiving EA. In conclusion, the use of EA for MLR is low, and EA does not seem to influence the incidence of postoperative complications. EA, however, was associated with an increased use of blood transfusions and a longer hospital stay. PMID:25484494

76 FR 54525 - Notice of Availability of a Final Environmental Assessment (Final EA) and a Finding of No...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-01

... Environmental Assessment (Final EA) and a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI)/Record of Decision (ROD) for... Environmental Assessment (Final EA) and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI)/Record of Decision (ROD) for a...)/Record of Decision (ROD) based on the Final Environmental Assessment (Final EA) for a Proposed Airport...

75 FR 5016 - Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Northeast Multispecies Fishery; Framework Adjustment 44

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-02-01

... section of this proposed rule. Copies of the Environmental Assessment (EA) prepared for this rule may be... submitted to NMFS as of September 1, 2009, as indicated in the EA. In contrast, the proposed Annual Catch... the FW 44 EA. The FW 44 EA contains a brief discussion of the potential effects on the environment...

A novel plasmid pEA68 of Erwinia amylovora and the description of a new family of plasmids.

PubMed

Ismail, Emadeldeen; Blom, Jochen; Bultreys, Alain; Ivanović, Milan; Obradović, Aleksa; van Doorn, Joop; Bergsma-Vlami, Maria; Maes, Martine; Willems, Anne; Duffy, Brion; Stockwell, Virginia O; Smits, Theo H M; Puławska, Joanna

2014-12-01

Recent genome analysis of Erwinia amylovora, the causal agent of fire blight disease on Rosaceae, has shown that the chromosome is highly conserved among strains and that plasmids are the principal source of genomic diversity. A new circular plasmid, pEA68, was found in E. amylovora strain 692 (LMG 28361), isolated in Poland from Sorbus (mountain ash) with fire blight symptoms. Annotation of the 68,763-bp IncFIIa-type plasmid revealed that it contains 79 predicted CDS, among which two operons (tra, pil) are associated with mobility. The plasmid is maintained stably in E. amylovora and does not possess genes associated with antibiotic resistance or known virulence genes. Curing E. amylovora strain 692 of pEA68 did not influence its virulence in apple shoots nor amylovoran synthesis. Of 488 strains of E. amylovora from seventeen countries, pEA68 was only found in two additional strains from Belgium. Although the spread of pEA68 is currently limited to Europe, pEA68 comprises, together with pEA72 and pEA78 both found in North America, a new plasmid family that spans two continents.

Degradation and epimerization of ergot alkaloids after baking and in vitro digestion.

PubMed

Merkel, Stefan; Dib, Baha; Maul, Ronald; Köppen, Robert; Koch, Matthias; Nehls, Irene

2012-11-01

The degradation and epimerization of ergot alkaloids (EAs) in rye flour were investigated after baking cookies and subsequently subjecting them to an in vitro digestion model. Different steps of digestion were analyzed using salivary, gastric, and duodenal juices. The degradation and bidirectional conversion of the toxicologically relevant (R)-epimers and the biologically inactive (S)-epimers for seven pairs of EAs were determined by a HPLC method coupled with fluorescence detection. Baking cookies resulted in degradation of EAs (2-30 %) and a shift in the epimeric ratio toward the (S)-epimer for all EAs. The applied digestion model led to a selective toxification of ergotamine and ergosine, two ergotamine-type EAs. The initial percentage of the toxic (R)-epimer in relation to the total toxin content was considerably increased after digestion of cookies. Ergotamine and ergosine increased from 32 to 51 % and 35 to 55 %, respectively. In contrast, EAs of the ergotoxine type (ergocornine, α- and β-ergocryptine, and ergocristine) showed an epimeric shift toward their biologically inactive (S)-epimers. Further experiments indicated that the selective epimerization of ergotamine EAs occurs in the duodenal juice only. These results demonstrate that toxification of EAs in the intestinal tract should be taken into consideration.

The short- and long-term benefit in chronic low back pain through adjuvant electrical versus manual auricular acupuncture.

PubMed

Sator-Katzenschlager, Sabine M; Scharbert, Gisela; Kozek-Langenecker, Sibylle A; Szeles, Jozef C; Finster, Gabriele; Schiesser, Andreas W; Heinze, Georg; Kress, Hans Georg

2004-05-01

Acupuncture is an established adjuvant analgesic modality for the treatment of chronic pain. Electrical stimulation of acupuncture points is considered to increase acupuncture analgesia. In this prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled study we tested the hypothesis that auricular electroacupuncture (EA) relieves pain more effectively than conventional manual auricular acupuncture (CO) in chronic low back pain patients with insufficient pain relief (visual analogue scale [VAS] > or = 5) treated with standardized analgesic therapy. Disposable acupuncture needles were inserted in the auricular acupuncture points 29, 40, and 55 of the dominant side and connected to a newly developed battery-powered miniaturized stimulator worn behind the ear. Patients were randomized into group EA (n = 31) with continuous low-frequency auricular EA (1 Hz biphasic constant current of 2 mA) and group CO (n = 30) without electrical stimulation (sham-electroacupuncture). Treatment was performed once weekly for 6 wk, and in each group needles were withdrawn 48 h after insertion. During the study period and a 3-mo follow-up, patients were asked to complete the McGill questionnaire. Psychological well being, activity level, quality of sleep, and pain intensity were assessed by means of VAS; moreover, analgesic drug consumption was documented. Pain relief was significantly better in group EA during the study and the follow-up period as compared with group CO. Similarly, psychological well-being, activity, and sleep were significantly improved in group EA versus group CO, the consumption of analgesic rescue medication was less, and more patients returned to full-time employment. Neuropathic pain in particular improved in patients treated with EA. There were no adverse side effects. These results are the first to demonstrate that continuous EA stimulation of auricular acupuncture points improves the treatment of chronic low back pain in an outpatient population. Continuous electrical stimulation of auricular acupuncture points using the new point stimulation device P-stim significantly decreases pain intensity and improves psychological well-being, activity, and sleep in chronic low back pain patients.

Investigation of very high energy cosmic rays by means of inclined muon bundles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bogdanov, A. G.; Kokoulin, R. P.; Mannocchi, G.; Petrukhin, A. A.; Saavedra, O.; Shutenko, V. V.; Trinchero, G.; Yashin, I. I.

2018-03-01

In a typical approach to extensive air shower (EAS) investigations, horizontal arrays are used and near-vertical EAS are detected. In contrast, in this work vertically arranged muon detectors are used to study inclined EAS. At large zenith angles, EAS consisting solely of muon component are employed. The transverse dimensions of EAS rapidly increase when the zenith angle increases. Hence, EAS in a wide energy interval can be explored by means of a relatively small detector. Here we present results of the analysis of the data on inclined muon bundles accumulated from 2002 to 2016 in the DECOR experiment. For the first time, these results demonstrate with more than 3σ significance the existence of the second knee in the EAS muon component spectrum near 1017 eV primary energy. An excess of muon bundles at energies about 1 EeV found earlier in DECOR data has been confirmed and analyzed in detail. It is highly likely that the obtained outcomes indicate the appearance of new processes of muon generation.

Three-Dimensional Volumetric Assessment of Diastolic Function by Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA).

PubMed

Nacif, Marcelo S; Almeida, Andre L C; Young, Alistair A; Cowan, Brett R; Armstrong, Anderson C; Yang, Eunice; Sibley, Christopher T; Hundley, W Gregory; Liu, Songtao; Lima, Joao Ac; Bluemke, David A

2017-01-01

Cardiac Magnetic Resonance is in need of a simple and robust method for diastolic function assessment that can be done with routine protocol sequences. To develop and validate a three-dimensional (3D) model-based volumetric assessment of diastolic function using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging and compare the results obtained with the model with those obtained by echocardiography. The study participants provided written informed consent and were included if having undergone both echocardiography and cine steady-state free precession (SSFP) CMR on the same day. Guide points at the septal and lateral mitral annulus were used to define the early longitudinal relaxation rate (E'), while a time-volume curve from the 3D model was used to assess diastolic filling parameters. We determined the correlation between 3D CMR and echocardiography and the accuracy of CMR in classifying the diastolic function grade. The study included 102 subjects. The E/A ratio by CMR was positively associated with the E/A ratio by echocardiography (r = 0.71, p < 0.0001). The early diastolic relaxation velocity by tissue Doppler and longitudinal relaxation rate for the lateral mitral annulus displacement were positively associated (p = 0.007), as were the ratio between Doppler E/e' and CMR E/E' (p = 0.01). CMR-determined normalized peak E (NE) and deceleration time (DT) were able to predict diastolic dysfunction (areas under the curve [AUCs] = 0.70 and 0.72, respectively). In addition, the lateral E/E' ratio showed good utility in identifying diastolic dysfunction (AUC = 0.80). Overall, echocardiography and CMR interobserver and intraobserver agreements were excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient range 0.72 - 0.97). 3D modeling of standard cine CMR images was able to identify study subjects with reduced diastolic function and showed good reproducibility, suggesting a potential for a routine diastolic function assessment by CMR. A ressonância magnética cardíaca necessita de um método simples e robusto para a avaliação da função diastólica que pode ser feito com sequências protocolares de rotina. Desenvolver e validar a avaliação volumétrica da função diastólica através de um modelo tridimensional (3D) com utilização de imagens de ressonância magnética cardíaca (RMC) e comparar os resultados obtidos com este modelo com os obtidos por ecocardiografia. Os participantes do estudo assinaram um termo de consentimento e foram incluídos se tivessem sido submetidos no mesmo dia tanto à ecocardiografia quanto à cine RMC com precessão livre no estado estacionário (steady-state free precession, SSFP). Pontos-guia foram utilizados no anel mitral septal e lateral para definir a velocidade de estiramento no início da diástole (E'), enquanto curvas de volume-tempo do modelo 3D foram utilizadas para avaliar os parâmetros de enchimento diastólico. Foram determinadas a correlação entre a RMC 3D e a ecocardiografia, além da acurácia da RMC em classificar o grau de função diastólica. Ao todo, 102 sujeitos foram incluídos no estudo. A razão E/A pela RMC esteve positivamente associada com a razão E/A obtida pela ecocardiografia (r = 0,71, p < 0,0001). Estiveram positivamente associadas a velocidade de relaxamento diastólico inicial ao Doppler tecidual e a velocidade de relaxamento longitudinal de deslocamento do anel mitral lateral (p = 0,007), bem como a razão entre E/e' por Doppler e E/E' pela RMC (p = 0,01). A velocidade normalizada de pico de enchimento (EM) determinada pela RMC e o tempo de desaceleração (TD) foram capazes de predizer a disfunção diastólica (áreas sob a curva [AUCs] = 0,70 e 0,72, respectivamente). Além disso, a razão E/E' lateral mostrou boa utilidade para a identificação da disfunção diastólica (AUC = 0,80). No geral, a ecocardiografia e a RMC apresentaram excelente concordância interobservador e intraobservador (coeficiente de correlação intraclasse 0,72 - 0,97). Uma modelagem 3D de imagens padrões de cine RMC foi capaz de identificar os indivíduos do estudo com função diastólica reduzida e mostrou uma boa reprodutibilidade, sugerindo ter potencial na avaliação rotineira da função diastólica por RMC.

[Effect of Electroacupuncture and Moxibustion on Visceral Pain and Expression of VR 1 and HSP 70 of "Tianshu" (ST 25) Region in Colorectal Distension-induced Visceral Hypersensitivity Rats].

PubMed

Li, Yu-Wei; Zhao, Ji-Meng; Chen, Liu; Shang, Hai-Xia; Wu, Lu-Yi; Bao, Chun-Hui; Dou, Chuan-Zi; Wu, Huan-Gan; Shi, Yin

2016-08-25

To compare the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) and moxibustion (Moxi) on visceral pain and expression of vanilloid receptor subtype 1 (VR 1) and heat shock protein (HSP)70 in "Tianshu" (ST 25) region in colorectal distension (CRD)-induced visceral hypersensitivity (VHS) rats. Fifty male SD rats were randomly divided into normal control, VHS model, 43℃-moxi, 46℃-moxi, 1 mA-EA and 3 mA-EA groups ( n =10 in each group). The VSH model was established by CRD once daily for 14 days. EA or Moxi stimulation was applied to bilateral "Tianshu" (ST 25) for 10 min, once daily for consecutive 10 days. The abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR) scores (0-4 points) were rated according to Al-Chaer's and coworkers' standards (2000) and the expression levels of VR 1 and HSP 70 in bilateral ST 25 area tissues detected by immunohistochemistry. The AWR scores for 20, 40, 60 and 80 mmHg CRD pressures were significantly increased compared to the normal control group ( P <0.01) and notably decreased after 43℃- and 46℃-moxi, and 1 mA- and 3 mA-EA stimulation of bila-teral ST 25 in comparison with the model group ( P <0.05, P <0.01), and the effect of 46℃-moxi was apparently superior to those of 1 mA-EA at 40 and 80 mmHg, and 3 mA-EA at 40 mmHg ( P <0.05). After modeling, the expression of both VR 1 and HSP 70 (percentages of area of positive-cells) in ST 25 region had no significant changes ( P >0.05). Compared to the model group, the expression levels of VR 1 in the 43℃-moxi and 46℃-moxi groups, and HSP 70 in the 43℃-moxi and 46℃-moxi, 1 mA-EA and 3 mA-EA groups were significantly up-regulated ( P <0.01), but without obvious changes in the expression of VR 1 in the 1 mA-EA and 3 mA-EA groups ( P >0.05). The effects of 46℃-moxi were considerably better than those of 43℃-moxi, 1 mA-EA and 3 mA-EA in up-regulating VR 1 and HSP 70 expression ( P <0.05, P <0.01). No significant differences were found among the 43℃-moxi, 1 mA-EA and 3 mA-EA groups in the expression of VR 1 and HSP 70 ( P >0.05). Moxibustion at 43℃ and 46℃ and EA at 1 mA and 3 mA, especially the 46℃-moxi, can relieve visceral pain in visceral hypersensitivity rats, which may be related to their effects in up-regulating expression of VR 1 and HSP 70 in "Tianshu" (ST 25) area.

Synthesis and biological evaluation of novel alkyl diamine linked bivalent β-carbolines as angiogenesis inhibitors.

PubMed

Chen, Wei; Zhang, Guoxian; Guo, Liang; Fan, Wenxi; Ma, Qin; Zhang, Xiaodong; Du, Runlei; Cao, Rihui

2016-11-29

We have synthesized and evaluated a series of novel alkyl diamine linked bivalent β-carbolines as potent angiogenesis inhibitors. The results demonstrated that most bivalent β-carbolines exhibited significant antiproliferative effects against human umbilical vein cell lines EA.HY926. Compound 4m was found to be the most potent antiproliferative agent with IC 50 value of 2.16 μM against EA.HY926 cell lines. Mechanism investigations revealed that compound 4m could significantly inhibit EA.HY926 cells migration and tube formation in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, compound 4m also showed obvious angiogenesis inhibitory effects in CAM assay, and the antiangiogenetic potency was more potent than the reference drug Endostar. The bivalent β-carbolines might be served as candidates for the development of vascular targeting antitumor drugs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Modeling and design study using HFC-236ea as an alternative refrigerant in a centrifugal compressor. Final report, January 1994-September 1995

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

Popovic, P.; Shapiro, H.N.

1997-04-01

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in cooperation with the Navy has been seeking a CFC-114 drop-in placement. One alternative HFC refrigerant which appears to satisfy all physical and chemical characteristics for the Navy fleet was found to be HFC-236ea refrigerant. The project represents a part of the investigation directed to evaluate this CFC-114 alternative refrigerant as a possible drop-in replacement in Navy chillers. The objective of the study was to conduct a thorough literature review regarding centrifugal compressors and the, on the basis of the information gathered, build an accurate but simple compressor model utilizing the available compressor experimental data.more » Further, the developed compressor model would be used to suggest eventual design adjustments to enhance compressor performance with the alternative HFC-236ea refrigerant.« less

Research on Advanced Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) Methods for Aerospace Structures

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-03-01

al iz ed re sp on se (l in ea r s ca le ) N or m al iz ed re sp on se (l in ea...variations showed some differences after weathering (Figure 4.2.2-2). 0.0 1.0 2.0 0 1 2 3 4 5 Weathering time (hours) N or m al iz ed p ea k ar ea 0.0...1.0 2.0 0 1 2 3 4 5 Weathering time (hours)N or m al iz ed p ea k he ig ht s (A) (B) 52 Prior to weathering, the height variation

[Electroacupuncture Combined with Clomiphene Promotes Pregnancy and Blastocyst Implantation Possibly by Up-regulating Expression of Insulin Receptor and Insulin Receptor Substrate 1 Proteins in Endometrium in Rats with PCOS].

PubMed

Lai, Mao-Hua; Ma, Hong-Xia; Song, Xing-Hua

2016-10-25

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) intervention combined with clomiphene critate (CC) on the blastocyst implantation and pregnancy rate and expression of insulin receptor (INSR) and insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS 1) proteins in the endometrium in rats with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), so as to reveal its mechanisms underlying improvement of PCOS. One hundred and twenty-five female SD rats were randomly divided into normal control, PCOS model, medication (CC), EA and EA+CC groups ( n =25 in each group, 15 for checking blastocyst implantation, and 10 for Western blot). The PCOS model was established by subcutaneous injection of Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and fed with high-fat diet. Rats of the normal control group were treated by subcutaneous injection of sesame oil and fed with the normal forage. EA stimulation was applied to "Zhongwan" (CV 12), "Guanyuan" (CV 4) and bilateral "Tianshu" (ST 25) for 30 min, 3 times a week, 5 weeks altogether. Rats of the CC and EA+CC groups were fed with CC (100 mg·kg -1 ·d -1 ) for 2 days after regular restriction (30 min, 3 times a week, 5 weeks altogether). The pregnancy was determined by vaginal smear tests and the number of blastocyst implantation determined by examination of the uterus after execution. The expression of INSR and IRS 1 proteins in the endometrium was detected by Western blot. The pregnancy rate and the number of blastocyst implantation were significantly lower in the model group than in the normal control group ( P <0.05), and remarkably increased after EA and EA+CC interventions ( P <0.05). The effects of EA+CC were obviously superior to those of simple EA and simple medication in raising the pregnancy rate and the number of blastocyst implantation ( P <0.05). No significant differences were found between the EA and CC groups in the pregnancy rate and the number of blastocyst implantation ( P >0.05). The relative expression levels of both INSR and IRS 1 proteins were markedly lower in the model group than in the normal control group ( P <0.05), and significantly higher in both EA and EA+CC groups than in the model group ( P <0.05). No significant differences were found between the model and the CC groups and between the EA and EA+CC groups in the expression levels of INSR and IRS 1 proteins ( P >0.05). EA intervention can improve pregnancy rate and the number of blastocyst implantation in PCOS rats, which may be related to its effects in up-regulating the expression of INSR and IRS 1 proteins in the endometrium.

Effects of electroacupuncture at BL33 on detrusor smooth muscle activity in a rat model of urinary retention.

PubMed

Liu, Xiaoxu; Liu, Kun; Zhi, Mujun; Mo, Qian; Gao, Xinyan; Liu, Zhishun

2017-12-01

Detrusor smooth muscle (DSM) underactivity may lead to urinary retention (UR). Electroacupuncture (EA) at BL33 may be effective in improving DSM contractions. This study aimed to investigate: (1) the effect of EA at BL33; and (2) the effect of different manipulation methods at BL33 on the modulation of DSM contractions in UR rats. 30 male Sprague-Dawley rats were anaesthetised with urethane and modelled by urethral outlet obstruction. First, 2 Hz EA at BL33, SP6 and LI4 wasrandomly applied to the UR rats for 5 min to observe the immediate effects (n=10); second, manual acupuncture (MA) (n=10) and 100 Hz EA (n=10) were applied with the same programme. DSM electromyography (EMG) and cystometrogram data were evaluated. (1) 2 Hz EA at BL33 and SP6 significantly increased DSM discharging frequency (0.80±0.10 Hz, P<0.001, and 0.22±0.14 Hz, P=0.038), shortened micturation intervals (65.67±20.65 s, P=0.008, and 35.62±15.84 s, P=0.042), prolonged the duration of voiding (2.13±0.61 s, P=0.005, and 0.47±0.16 s, P=0.015), and reduced residual pressure (-0.91±0.31 mmHg, P=0.019, and -0.66±0.27 mmHg, P=0.046). EA at LI4 was not associated with any functional effects (P>0.05). Compared with SP6, EA at BL33 had greater positive effects on DSM discharging frequency, duration of discharging, and duration of voiding (all P<0.05). (2) No statistically significant differences were shown between MA, 2 Hz EA and 100 Hz EA interventions when stimulating at BL33, SP6 or LI4. EA at BL33 improved DSM contractions to a greater degree than EA at SP6 or LI4. There were no differences in effect when stimulating using 2 Hz EA, 100 Hz EA and MA. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

[Clinical study of the electroacupuncture combined with thunder-fire moxibustion in treatment of degenerative knee osteoarthritis with cold-damp stagnation].

PubMed

Zhang, Huajun; Xu, Haidong; Liu, Tingting; Li, Peifa

2016-12-12

To observe the clinical effect of early degenerative knee osteoarthritis with cold-damp stagnation treated with electroacupuncture (EA) combined with thunder-fire moxibustion and simple EA. Eighty cases were randomly assigned into a combination group and an EA group,40 cases in each one. Twenty-five min EA was used in the EA group mainly at ashi points,Neixiyan(EX-LE 4),Zusanli(ST 36),Dubi(ST 35),Yanglingquan(GB 34),Yinlingquan(SP 9) and Liangqiu(ST 34) after deqi ( qi arrival),once a day. Based on EA at the same acupoints as the EA group,thunder-fire moxibustion was applied at ashi points,Dubi(ST 35)and Liangqiu(ST 34) by means of 20-minute suspended moxibustion,once a day. Ten-day treatment was seen as one course,and continuous 2 courses were applied. The indices were observed before and after treatment including visual analogue scale(VAS) score,Lequesne index score,Lysholm score of knee joint,serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Clinical effects were also evaluated and 6-month follow-up was implemented to show the recurrence rate. After treatment the total effective rate of the combination group was 95.0%(38/40),which was better than 82.5%(33/40) of the EA group( P <0.05).The Lequesne index score,VAS score,serum CRP and ESR apparently decreased compared with those before treatment in the two groups(all P <0.05),and the four indices in the combination group were obviously lower than those in the EA group(all P <0.05). As for the Lysholm knee joint score,the good rates of the two groups enhanced after treatment(both P <0.05),and the result of the combination group was superior to that of the EA group[87.5%(35/40) vs 72.5%(29/40), P <0.05]. At 6-month follow-up,the recurrence rate of the combination group was lower than that of the EA group[26.7%(4/15) vs 100.0%(9/9), P <0.05]. EA combined with thunder-fire moxibustion achieve good effect for degenerative knee osteoarthritis with cold-damp stagnation. The combination therapy have advantages in effect duration compared with simple EA.

32 CFR 651.34 - EA components.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... and comparison of impacts should provide sufficient analysis to reach a conclusion regarding the... ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS OF ARMY ACTIONS (AR 200-2) Environmental Assessment § 651.34 EA components. EAs should be...

32 CFR 651.34 - EA components.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... and comparison of impacts should provide sufficient analysis to reach a conclusion regarding the... ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS OF ARMY ACTIONS (AR 200-2) Environmental Assessment § 651.34 EA components. EAs should be...

78 FR 28245 - In the Matter of Southern Nuclear Operating Company, Farley Nuclear Plant, Units 1 and 2...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-14

... recent public examples, including those documented in EA-12-240 and EA-12-230, and the impacts when there... and EA-12-230, and the impacts when there is a loss of integrity and trustworthiness. f. By the later...-8; EA-12-145] In the Matter of Southern Nuclear Operating Company, Farley Nuclear Plant, Units 1 and...

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

PubMed

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

2015-12-01

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

Products of the direct reaction of the diazonium ion of a metabolite of the carcinogen N-nitrosomorpholine with purines of nucleosides and DNA.

PubMed

Zink, Charles N; Soissons, Nicolas; Fishbein, James C

2010-07-19

A number of putative purine nucleoside and nucleobase adducts of the diazonium ion derived from 3-hydroxy-N-nitrosomorpholine have been synthesized as dimethylacetals. These are converted, in most cases nearly quantitatively, to the aldehydes, or in two cases to their derivatives, on treatment with mild acid to yield standards for a quantitative investigation of alkylation of purine nucleosides and DNA by the above metabolite of the powerful carcinogen N-nitrosomorpholine. The stability of the resulting nucleobase ethoxyacetaldehyde (EA) adducts has been characterized under a number of conditions with respect to their propensity to decompose. The stabilities, compared to that of the previously characterized adduct of the model benzimidazole, are generally unexceptional. Deposition of adducts on purine nucleosides and DNA were quantified in reactions in which 3-hydroperoxy-N-nitrosomorpholine was reduced to the hydroxy metabolite by a water-soluble phosphine at 21 +/- 2 degrees C. The adduct profile is highly similar to that observed from simpler alpha-hydroxy metabolites of acyclic dialkylnitrosamines, with the three most abundant ethoxyacetaldehyde (EA) adducts in reactions of duplex DNA being N7-EA-Gua approximately O(6)-EA-Gua > N3-EA-Ade. The initial rate kinetics of formation of hydroxyethyl (HE) lesions from the initially formed EA lesions have been determined in the case of the major products in the cases of both the nucleoside and DNA adducts. The rates of formation of HE adducts are accelerated in DNA, relative to the nucleosides in the cases of the N7-EA-Ade, N7-EA-Gua, and O(6)-EA-Gua adducts by factors of 7, 14, and 54, respectively. The initial rates of depurination of the N3-EA-Ade, N7-EA-Gua, and N7-EA-Gua adducts have also been quantified, and they are unexceptional in comparison with what has been previously reported for simple alkyl adducts. The adduct profiles reported here stand in significant contrast to what has been reported previously for structurally closely related alpha-substituted cyclic nitrosamines. In part or whole, this may be due to methodological differences in the conduct of the present and previous reports.

Neuroprotective effect of electroacupuncture and upregulation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α during acute ischaemic stroke in rats.

PubMed

Li, Ce; Zhang, Tingting; Yu, Kewei; Xie, Hongyu; Bai, Yulong; Zhang, Li; Wu, Yi; Wang, Nianhong

2017-10-01

Acupuncture is a traditional method that has been widely used in various fields of medicine with therapeutic effect. However, evidence of effectiveness to support the application of electroacupuncture (EA) during the process of ischaemia is scarce. To investigate dynamic changes in hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α expression as well as its association with neurological status in rats subjected to acute ischaemic stroke and EA intervention. Forty adult male rats were randomly divided into three groups that received sham surgery (Control group, n=10) or underwent middle cerebral artery occlusion and EA (MCAO+EA group, n=15) or minimal acupuncture as a control treatment (MCAO+MA group, n=15). The rats in the MCAO+EA and MCAO+MA groups received EA or acupuncture without any electrical current, respectively, during 90 min of ischaemia. Rats in the Control group received the same surgical procedure but without MCAO. EA involved electrical stimulation of needles inserted into the quadriceps at 50 Hz frequency and 3 mA current intensity. Neurological status was evaluated on postoperative day 1, and cerebral infarction volume (IV) and HIF-1α expression 24 hours later. Neurological scores were improved and cerebral IV was decreased in the MCAO+EA group compared to the MCAO+MA group (both p<0.05). Moreover, HIF-1α expression was higher in the MCAO+EA group versus the MCAO+MA group (p<0.05). EA enhanced recovery of neurological function, decreased cerebral IV and increased HIF-1α expression in ischaemic rats. Further research is needed to determine whether EA is effective for stroke treatment through the stimulation of muscle contraction. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Parameter-specific analgesic effects of electroacupuncture mediated by degree of regulation TRPV1 and P2X3 in inflammatory pain in rats.

PubMed

Fang, J Q; Du, J Y; Fang, J F; Xiao, T; Le, X Q; Pan, N F; Yu, J; Liu, B Y

2018-05-01

Observing the parameter-specific anti-hyperalgesic effects of EA with different stimulation times and frequencies on painful hyperalgesia mediated by the level of TRPV1 and P2X3 expression in DRG after CFA injection. The model was induced by the injection of CFA in each rat's right hind paw. EA treatment was applied to the bilateral ST36 and BL60. Paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) and paw withdrawal latency (PWL) were tested with Von Frey filaments and the radiant heat source of the test instrument, respectively. TRPV1 and P2X3 expressions were measured by immunofluorescence and western blot. αβ-meATP and capsaicine combined with EA were further utilized to investigate the change in PWL. Different stimulation times (20, 30, 45 min) combined with different frequencies (2 Hz, 100 Hz, 2/100 Hz) of EA have analgesic effects on the PWT and PWL; however, the level of the hypoalgesic efficacy of EA was primarily associated with EA frequency. The analgesic effect of EA was better at 100 Hz than at 2 Hz. The level of regulation of 100 Hz EA on TRPV1 and P2X3 in DRG was greater than that of 2 Hz. Furthermore, both TRPV1 agonist and P2X3 agonist may impair the level of EA analgesia. EA has a parameter-specific effect on chronic inflammatory pain relief, which primarily depend on the stimulation frequency and not on the stimulation time at a certain stimulation time. The parameter-specific analgesic effect of EA is at least partially related to mediation of the protein level of TRPV1 and P2X3 expression in DRG of CFA rats. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of Electroacupuncture on Transcutaneous Oxygen Partial Pressure During Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Healthy Individuals.

PubMed

Qu, Lan; Ye, Yong; Li, Chunfeng; Gao, Guangkai

2015-01-01

The goal of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is to increase the oxygen (O₂) supply to the body significantly. Because of the toxic side effects and complications of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO₂), the environmental pressure and treatment time must be restricted. The research team hypothesized that other therapies administered during HBOT could safely improve the value of the arterial oxygen partial pressure (PaO₂) during HBOT and improve its therapeutic effect. The study intended to investigate whether electroacupuncture (EA) while receiving HBOT had a greater effect for healthy individuals than HBOT or EA alone or EA combined with normobaric pure oxygen (pure O₂). The research team designed a randomized, controlled trial. The study was performed in the Department of Hyperbaric Medicine at the No. 401 Hospital of the People's Liberation Army in Qingdao, China. A total of 81 volunteers were recruited. After thorough physical examination and laboratory testing, 21 volunteers were excluded from the study. Participants included 60 healthy volunteers. Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups of 15 participants each: (1) an HBOT group, (2) an EA group, (3) an EA During HBOT group, and (4) an EA Combined With Pure O₂group. Because at the current technology level a blood gas analyzer cannot test PaO₂during HBOT, transcutaneous oxygen partial pressure (PtcO₂) of the participants was tested instead. Before, during, and after EA, variations in PtcO₂were monitored in each group. For the EA During HBOT group, (1) the increase in PtcO₂during EA was significantly greater than that observed for the other 3 groups (P > .05). The EA During HBOT method provided improvements in the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of HBOT, and the study's results partially demonstrated the accuracy of the research team's hypothesis that EA therapy applied during HBOT could safely improve the value of PtcO₂(PaO₂) during HBOT and produce a greater therapeutic effect.

Ellagic acid impedes carbontetrachloride-induced liver damage in rats through suppression of NF-kB, Bcl-2 and regulating Nrf-2 and caspase pathway.

PubMed

Aslan, Abdullah; Gok, Ozlem; Erman, Orhan; Kuloglu, Tuncay

2018-06-11

The use of natural antioxidants instead of conventional treatments is considered effective and safe alternative therapy for hepatotoxicity. Ellagic acid (EA) is a strong antioxidant matter having protecting effect particularly on the liver. Hepatotoxic compounds can cause very heavy damage. Among these chemical hepatotoxins, CCl 4 are responsible for the trichloromethyl radical resulting from biotransformation of the liver. The aim of this study was to examine whether EA plays a protective role against to liver damage induced with carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4 ) in rats. In this study, 36 male wistar albino (n = 36, 8 weeks old) rats were used. The rats were distributed into 4 groups, and 9 rats involved in each group. The groups were: (i) Control Group: Fed with standard diet; (ii) EA Group: Fed with standard diet + EA; (iii) CCl 4 Group: Fed with standard diet + CCl 4 ; (iv) CCl 4 + EA Group: Fed with standard diet + CCl 4 + EA. After 8 weeks, the rats were decapitated and the liver tissue were examined. As a result; EA application created a significant difference (p < 0.05) on caspase-3, bcl-2, NF-kB and Nrf-2 expression in the CCl 4 + EA group in comparison to CCl 4 group. Caspase-3 and Nrf-2 expression levels were increased in the CCl 4 + EA group in comparison to CCl 4 group, but bcl-2 and NF-kB expression levels were decreased. In TUNEL assay examinations, apoptotic index ratio was decreased in the CCl 4 + EA group in comparison to CCl 4 group. These results show that EA reduce liver damage ratio at wistar albino rats and also these results suggest that ellagic acid may be a potentially protective drug against to liver damage in future. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Perceptions of preclinical medical students towards extracurricular activities.

PubMed

Almasry, Mazen; Kayali, Zeina; Alsaad, Rakan; Alhayaza, Ghada; Ahmad, Mohammad Sharique; Obeidat, Akef; Abu-Zaid, Ahmed

2017-08-16

To determine the percentage of students involved in extracurricular activities (EAs), explore relationships between participation in EAs and students' characteristics, and investigate students' perceptions (i.e., motives and barriers) towards participation in EAs. An online, anonymous, random, cross-sectional, self-rating survey was administered during spring 2015-2016 to second-year and third-year students (n=340). Chi-square test was used to explore relationships between participation in EAs and students' characteristics. Mann-Whitney U-test was used to compare the mean 5-point Likert scale responses according to students' characteristics. Statistical significance was determined as p<0.05. Two hundred thirty-seven students participated in the survey (n=237/340, response rate: 69.7%). Only 143 students (60.3%, n=140/237) participated in EAs, and this percentage significantly differed by gender (χ 2 (1, N=237)=4.3205, p<0.037), nationality (χ 2 (1, N=237)=18.7069, p<0.000) and cumulative grade point average (cGPA, χ 2 (1, N=237)=17.8296, p<0.000). The top three motives towards participation in EAs were: "improve resume" (83.5%, n=198), "improve networking skills" (82.7%, n=196) and "improve teamwork skills" (76.8%, n=182). The top three barriers towards participation in EAs were: "lack of time" (61.2%, n=145), "lack of equal opportunities in EAs" (57.8%, n=137) and "lack of curricular emphasis of EAs" (52.7%, n=125). There was a statistically significant difference of means between male (mean=2.8) and female (mean=3.2) students regarding the following barrier: "affect academic performance negatively" (U=5389.5, p<0.002). The participation rate in EAs was satisfactory, and positively related to students' characteristics of male gender, non-Saudi nationality and high cGPA. Medical schools should facilitate all potential motives and resolve all associated barriers towards participation in EAs.

Mutations of amino acids in the DNA-recognition domain of Epstein-Barr virus ZEBRA protein alter its sub-nuclear localization and affect formation of replication compartments

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

Park, Richard; Heston, Lee; Shedd, Duane

ZEBRA, a transcription factor and DNA replication protein encoded by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) BZLF1 gene, plays indispensable roles in the EBV lytic cycle. We recently described the phenotypes of 46 single amino acid substitutions introduced into the DNA-recognition region of ZEBRA [Heston, L., El-Guindy, A., Countryman, J., Dela Cruz, C., Delecluse, H.J., and Miller, G. 2006]. The 27 DNA-binding-proficient mutants exhibited distinct defects in their ability to activate expression of the kinetic classes of viral genes. Four phenotypic variants could be discerned: wild-type, defective at activating Rta, defective at activating early genes, and defective at activating late genes. Heremore » we analyze the distribution of ZEBRA within the nucleus and the localization of EA-D (the viral DNA polymerase processivity factor), an indicator of the development of replication compartments, in representatives of each phenotypic group. Plasmids encoding wild-type (WT) and mutant ZEBRA were transfected into 293 cells containing EBV-bacmids. WT ZEBRA protein was diffusely and smoothly distributed throughout the nucleus, sparing nucleoli, and partially recruited to globular replication compartments. EA-D induced by WT ZEBRA was present diffusely in some cells and concentrated in globular replication compartments in other cells. The distribution of ZEBRA and EA-D proteins was identical to WT following transfection of K188R, a mutant with a conservative change. The distribution of S186A mutant ZEBRA protein, defective for activation of Rta and EA-D, was identical to WT, except that the mutant ZEBRA was never found in globular compartments. Co-expression of Rta with S186A mutant rescued diffuse EA-D but not globular replication compartments. The most striking observation was that several mutant ZEBRA proteins defective in activating EA-D (R179A, K181A and A185V) and defective in activating lytic viral DNA replication and late genes (Y180E and K188A) were localized to numerous punctate foci. The speckled appearance of R179A and Y180E was more regular and clearly defined in EBV-positive than in EBV-negative 293 cells. The Y180E late-mutant induced EA-D, but prevented EA-D from localizing to globular replication compartments. These results show that individual amino acids within the basic domain influence localization of the ZEBRA protein and its capacity to induce EA-D to become located in mature viral replication compartments. Furthermore, these mutant ZEBRA proteins delineate several stages in the processes of nuclear re-organization which accompany lytic EBV replication.« less

Aviation System Analysis Capability Executive Assistant Design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roberts, Eileen; Villani, James A.; Osman, Mohammed; Godso, David; King, Brent; Ricciardi, Michael

1998-01-01

In this technical document, we describe the design developed for the Aviation System Analysis Capability (ASAC) Executive Assistant (EA) Proof of Concept (POC). We describe the genesis and role of the ASAC system, discuss the objectives of the ASAC system and provide an overview of components and models within the ASAC system, and describe the design process and the results of the ASAC EA POC system design. We also describe the evaluation process and results for applicable COTS software. The document has six chapters, a bibliography, three appendices and one attachment.

Air Force Operational Medicine: Using the Enterprise Estimating Supplies Program to Develop Materiel Solutions for the Operational Requirements of the Air Force Otorhinolaryngology Augmentation Team (FFENT)

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-10-11

6515NCM040920 MONITOR NERVE INTEGRITY RESPOSE 2.0 EA 1 0 0.1 0.1 25500 0 0 0 A 6515014975058 MONOCULAR ASSISTANT PACKAGE WELSH EA 2 2 2 0.03 4200 2 0.03...6515001817404 NEEDLE HYPO DENTAL 25GA SELF -THREAD 100S PG 1 0 0.75 0.034 8.12 0 0 0 D 6515015261730 NEEDLE HYPO GP 25GA X1IN SAFETY SHIELD 50S PG 2 0 11.1

Glaucoma Progression Detection by Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Measurement Using Scanning Laser Polarimetry: Event and Trend Analysis

PubMed Central

Moon, Byung Gil; Cho, Jung Woo; Kang, Sung Yong; Yun, Sung-Cheol; Na, Jung Hwa; Lee, Youngrok; Kook, Michael S.

2012-01-01

Purpose To evaluate the use of scanning laser polarimetry (SLP, GDx VCC) to measure the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in order to evaluate the progression of glaucoma. Methods Test-retest measurement variability was determined in 47 glaucomatous eyes. One eye each from 152 glaucomatous patients with at least 4 years of follow-up was enrolled. Visual field (VF) loss progression was determined by both event analysis (EA, Humphrey guided progression analysis) and trend analysis (TA, linear regression analysis of the visual field index). SLP progression was defined as a reduction of RNFL exceeding the predetermined repeatability coefficient in three consecutive exams, as compared to the baseline measure (EA). The slope of RNFL thickness change over time was determined by linear regression analysis (TA). Results Twenty-two eyes (14.5%) progressed according to the VF EA, 16 (10.5%) by VF TA, 37 (24.3%) by SLP EA and 19 (12.5%) by SLP TA. Agreement between VF and SLP progression was poor in both EA and TA (VF EA vs. SLP EA, k = 0.110; VF TA vs. SLP TA, k = 0.129). The mean (±standard deviation) progression rate of RNFL thickness as measured by SLP TA did not significantly differ between VF EA progressors and non-progressors (-0.224 ± 0.148 µm/yr vs. -0.218 ± 0.151 µm/yr, p = 0.874). SLP TA and EA showed similar levels of sensitivity when VF progression was considered as the reference standard. Conclusions RNFL thickness as measurement by SLP was shown to be capable of detecting glaucoma progression. Both EA and TA of SLP showed poor agreement with VF outcomes in detecting glaucoma progression. PMID:22670073

Glaucoma progression detection by retinal nerve fiber layer measurement using scanning laser polarimetry: event and trend analysis.

PubMed

Moon, Byung Gil; Sung, Kyung Rim; Cho, Jung Woo; Kang, Sung Yong; Yun, Sung-Cheol; Na, Jung Hwa; Lee, Youngrok; Kook, Michael S

2012-06-01

To evaluate the use of scanning laser polarimetry (SLP, GDx VCC) to measure the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in order to evaluate the progression of glaucoma. Test-retest measurement variability was determined in 47 glaucomatous eyes. One eye each from 152 glaucomatous patients with at least 4 years of follow-up was enrolled. Visual field (VF) loss progression was determined by both event analysis (EA, Humphrey guided progression analysis) and trend analysis (TA, linear regression analysis of the visual field index). SLP progression was defined as a reduction of RNFL exceeding the predetermined repeatability coefficient in three consecutive exams, as compared to the baseline measure (EA). The slope of RNFL thickness change over time was determined by linear regression analysis (TA). Twenty-two eyes (14.5%) progressed according to the VF EA, 16 (10.5%) by VF TA, 37 (24.3%) by SLP EA and 19 (12.5%) by SLP TA. Agreement between VF and SLP progression was poor in both EA and TA (VF EA vs. SLP EA, k = 0.110; VF TA vs. SLP TA, k = 0.129). The mean (±standard deviation) progression rate of RNFL thickness as measured by SLP TA did not significantly differ between VF EA progressors and non-progressors (-0.224 ± 0.148 µm/yr vs. -0.218 ± 0.151 µm/yr, p = 0.874). SLP TA and EA showed similar levels of sensitivity when VF progression was considered as the reference standard. RNFL thickness as measurement by SLP was shown to be capable of detecting glaucoma progression. Both EA and TA of SLP showed poor agreement with VF outcomes in detecting glaucoma progression.

Failed cooperative, but not competitive, interaction between large-scale brain networks impairs working memory in schizophrenia.

PubMed

Pu, W; Luo, Q; Palaniyappan, L; Xue, Z; Yao, S; Feng, J; Liu, Z

2016-04-01

A large-scale network named the default mode network (DMN) dynamically cooperates and competes with an external attention system (EAS) to facilitate various cognitive functioning that is prominently impaired in schizophrenia. However, it is unclear whether the cognitive deficit in schizophrenia is related to the disrupted competition and/or cooperation between these two networks. A total of 35 schizophrenia patients and 30 healthy controls were scanned using gradient-echo echo-planar imaging during n-back working memory (WM) processing. Brain activities of the DMN and EAS were measured using general linear modelling of the functional magnetic resonance imaging data. Dynamic interaction between the DMN and EAS was decomposed into two directions using Granger causality analysis. We observed a significant failure of DMN suppression in patients with schizophrenia, which was significantly related to WM/attentional deficit. Granger causality modelling showed that in healthy controls, while the EAS inhibitorily influenced the DMN, the DMN exerted an 'excitatory' or cooperative influence back on the EAS, especially in those with lower WM accuracy. In schizophrenia, this 'excitatory' DMN→EAS influence within the reciprocal EAS-DMN loop was significantly reduced, especially in patients with WM/attentional deficit. The dynamic interaction between the DMN and EAS is likely to be comprised of both competitive and cooperative influences. In healthy controls, both the 'inhibitory' EAS→DMN interaction and 'excitatory' DMN→EAS interaction are correlated with WM performance. In schizophrenia, reduced 'cooperative' influence from the DMN to dorsal nodes of the EAS occurs in the context of non-suppression of the DMN and may form a possible pathophysiological substrate of WM deficit and attention disorder.

Low energy availability surrogates correlate with health and performance consequences of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport.

PubMed

Ackerman, Kathryn E; Holtzman, Bryan; Cooper, Katherine M; Flynn, Erin F; Bruinvels, Georgie; Tenforde, Adam S; Popp, Kristin L; Simpkin, Andrew J; Parziale, Allyson L

2018-06-02

Low energy availability (EA) is suspected to be the underlying cause of both the Female Athlete Triad and the more recently defined syndrome, Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S). The International Olympic Committee (IOC) defined RED-S as a syndrome of health and performance impairments resulting from an energy deficit. While the importance of adequate EA is generally accepted, few studies have attempted to understand whether low EA is associated with the health and performance consequences posited by the IOC. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to examine the association of low EA with RED-S health and performance consequences in a large clinical population of female athletes. One thousand female athletes (15-30 years) completed an online questionnaire and were classified as having low or adequate EA. The associations between low EA and the health and performance factors listed in the RED-S models were evaluated using chi-squared test and the odds ratios were evaluated using binomial logistic regression (p<0.05). Athletes with low EA were more likely to be classified as having increased risk of menstrual dysfunction, poor bone health, metabolic issues, haematological detriments, psychological disorders, cardiovascular impairment and gastrointestinal dysfunction than those with adequate EA. Performance variables associated with low EA included decreased training response, impaired judgement, decreased coordination, decreased concentration, irritability, depression and decreased endurance performance. These findings demonstrate that low EA measured using self-report questionnaires is strongly associated with many health and performance consequences proposed by the RED-S models. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

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

PubMed

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

2017-01-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2017-05-01

Background: Educational attainment (EA) is inversely associated with colorectal cancer risk. Colorectal cancer screening can save lives if precancerous polyps or early cancers are found and successfully treated. This study aims to estimate the potential productivity loss (PPL) and associated avoidable colorectal cancer-related deaths among screen-eligible adults residing in lower EA counties in the United States. Methods: Mortality and population data were used to examine colorectal cancer deaths (2008-2012) among adults aged 50 to 74 years in lower EA counties, and to estimate the expected number of deaths using the mortality experience from high EA counties. Excess deaths (observed-expected) were used to estimate potential years life lost, and the human capital method was used to estimate PPL in 2012 U.S. dollars. Results: County-level colorectal cancer death rates were inversely associated with county-level EA. Of the 100,857 colorectal cancer deaths in lower EA counties, we estimated that more than 21,000 (1 in 5) was potentially avoidable and resulted in nearly $2 billion annual productivity loss. Conclusions: County-level EA disparities contribute to a large number of potentially avoidable colorectal cancer-related deaths. Increased prevention and improved screening potentially could decrease deaths and help reduce the associated economic burden in lower EA communities. Increased screening could further reduce deaths in all EA groups. Impact: These results estimate the large economic impact of potentially avoidable colorectal cancer-related deaths in economically disadvantaged communities, as measured by lower EA. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(5); 736-42. ©2016 AACR . ©2016 American Association for Cancer Research.

Effect of electroacupuncture stimulation on long-term recovery following Achilles tendon rupture in a rat model.

PubMed

Imaeda, Miwa; Hojo, Tatsuya; Kitakoji, Hiroshi; Tanaka, Kazuto; Itoi, Megumi; Inoue, Motohiro

2018-04-19

In this study we examined the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) stimulation on the mechanical strength of the rat Achilles tendon after long-term recovery. Using 20 rats, an Achilles tendon rupture model was created in an invasive manner. The rats were assigned to one of three groups, that received EA treatment (EA group), minimal acupuncture (MA group) or remained untreated (Control group). In the EA group, EA stimulation (5 ms, 50 Hz, 20 µA, 20 min) was applied to the rupture region over a period of 90 days (five times/week). In the MA group, needles were inserted into the same positions as in the EA group but no electrical current was applied. After 90 days the tendon was measured to calculate the cross-sectional area of the rupture region. Then, the mechanical strength of the tendon was measured by tensile testing. No significant differences were observed between the three groups in cross-sectional area of the injured tendon. For maximum breaking strength, the EA group showed a significantly higher threshold compared with the Control group (P<0.05) but not the MA group (P=0.24). No significant difference was seen between the MA group and the Control group (P=0.96). Given the EA group showed a significant increase in maximum breaking strength, it is likely that EA stimulation increases the mechanical strength of a repaired tendon after long-term recovery, and EA stimulation could be useful for preventing re-rupture. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

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

PubMed Central

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

2007-01-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2007-11-01

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

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

PubMed Central

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

2017-01-01

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

EEG epileptiform abnormalities at admission to a rehabilitation department predict the risk of seizures in disorders of consciousness following a coma.

PubMed

Bagnato, Sergio; Boccagni, Cristina; Sant'Angelo, Antonino; Prestandrea, Caterina; Virgilio, Vittorio; Galardi, Giuseppe

2016-03-01

Seizures affect about a quarter of patients with disorders of consciousness (DOC) after a coma. We investigated whether the presence of epileptiform abnormalities (EAs) in the electroencephalogram (EEG) of patients with DOC may predict the occurrence of seizures. Moreover, we evaluated whether EAs have a prognostic role in these patients. This was a retrospective single-center cohort study of patients hospitalized between January 2005 and December 2014 in a rehabilitation department (mean time from acute brain injury: 46.1 days). We analyzed 30-minute EEGs at admittance for 112 patients with unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS) or in a minimally conscious state (MCS), then compared occurrence of seizures over the following three months across patients with absent, unilateral, and bilateral EAs (generalized or bilateral independent). Outcomes at three months were assessed in the same groups using the Coma Recovery Scale Revised. Epileptiform abnormalities were observed in 38 patients (33.9%). Of these, 25 were unilateral, and 13 were bilateral. Seizures occurred in 84.6% of patients with bilateral EAs, which was significantly higher than in patients without EAs (10.8%, p<0.001) or with unilateral EAs (24%, p=0.001). The presence of EAs was not related to etiology or different DOC and did not significantly affect outcomes at three months. Patients with EAs at admission to a rehabilitation department have an increased risk of seizures. Specifically, most patients with bilateral EAs had seizures within the following 3 months. Evaluation of EAs in EEGs of patients with DOC may give valuable information in the management of antiepileptic drug treatment. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Electroacupuncture versus sham electroacupuncture for urinary retention in poststroke patients: study protocol for a multicenter, randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Shin, Seungwon; Lee, Jiwon; Yoo, Junghee; Lim, Sung Min; Lee, Euiju

2016-04-12

This study protocol evaluates the effectiveness of adjuvant electroacupuncture (EA) for urinary retention in poststroke patients undergoing conventional treatments, in comparison with that of a sham control. A multicenter, blinded, randomized controlled trial will be conducted in three hospitals in the Republic of Korea. We are recruiting 54 stroke survivors (aged >19 years), who were diagnosed with urinary retention based on the results of two consecutive post-void residual (PVR) tests, and dividing them randomly into two arms: the EA and Park-sham control groups. They will receive ten sessions of EA or sham treatment for 2 weeks. The participants will be blinded with non-penetrating needles and fake sounds of EA stimulators. The daily PVR ratio will be primarily measured at baseline and at the end of the study to statistically test the effectiveness of EA for poststroke urinary retention. Then, the Korean version of the Qualiveen Questionnaire, the Korean version of the International Prostate Symptom Score, and the blinding index will be assessed. After each EA session or sham EA, adverse events will be reported to evaluate the safety of EA. Results will be analyzed by using the independent t-test or Mann-Whitney U test, based on both intention-to-treat and per-protocol principles. The findings will provide clinical evidence for the effectiveness of EA treatment to improve urinary retention in stroke survivors. This study protocol was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02472288) on 10 June 2015.

Involvement of MrgprC in Electroacupuncture Analgesia for Attenuating CFA-Induced Thermal Hyperalgesia by Suppressing the TRPV1 Pathway.

PubMed

Liu, Ying-Jun; Lin, Xiao-Xi; Fang, Jian-Qiao; Fang, Fang

2018-01-01

Mas-related G-protein-coupled receptor C (MrgprC) plays an important role in modulating chronic inflammatory pain. Electroacupuncture (EA) has a satisfactory analgesic effect on chronic pain. This study aimed to investigate the involvement of MrgprC and its transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) pathway in EA analgesia in chronic inflammatory pain. Chronic inflammatory pain was induced by subcutaneously injecting complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) into the left hind paw. EA (2/100 Hz) stimulation was administered. MrgprC siRNAs were intrathecally administered to inhibit MrgprC expression, and bovine adrenal medulla 8-22 (BAM8-22) was used to activate MrgprC. The mechanical allodynia was decreased by EA significantly since day 3. The piled analgesic effect of EA was partially blocked by 6 intrathecal administrations of MrgprC siRNA. Both EA and BAM8-22 could downregulate the expression of TRPV1 and PKC in both the DRG and the SCDH. Both EA and BAM8-22 could also decrease the TRPV1 translocation and p-TRPV1 level in both the DRG and the SCDH. The effects of EA on PKC ε , TRPV1 translocation, and p-TRPV1 in both the DRG and the SCDH were reversed by MrgprC siRNA. The results indicated that MrgprC played crucial roles in chronic pain modulation and was involved in EA analgesia partially through the regulation of TRPV1 function at the DRG and SCDH levels.

Quantitative cultures of endotracheal aspirates for the diagnosis of ventilator-associated pneumonia.

PubMed

el-Ebiary, M; Torres, A; González, J; de la Bellacasa, J P; García, C; Jiménez de Anta, M T; Ferrer, M; Rodriguez-Roisin, R

1993-12-01

Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and protected specimen brushing (PSB) are the most commonly used methods for diagnosing ventilator-associated (VA) pneumonia although they require bronchoscopy. Endotracheal aspiration (EA) is a simple and less costly technique than PSB or BAL. The purpose of our study was to investigate the diagnostic value of EA quantitative cultures and to compare the results obtained using EA with those obtained using PSB and BAL in mechanically ventilated patients with or without pneumonia. We prospectively studied 102 intubated patients divided into three diagnostic categories: Group I (definite pneumonia, n = 26), Group II (uncertain status, n = 48), and Group III (control group, n = 28). All patients received prior antibiotic treatment. EA, PSB, and BAL were obtained sequentially in all patients. When comparing Group I with Group III and using 10(5) cfu/ml as a threshold, we found that EA quantitative cultures represented a relatively sensitive (70%) and relatively specific (72%) method to diagnose VA pneumonia. The specificity of BAL and PSB (87% and 93%, respectively) was better than that of EA. The negative predictive value of EA cultures was higher (72%) when compared with that obtained using PSB (34%) (p < 0.05). EA quantitative cultures correlated with PSB and BAL quantitative cultures in patients with definite pneumonia. Although EA quantitative cultures are less specific than PSB and BAL for diagnosing VA pneumonia, our results suggest that the former approach may be used to treat these patients when bronchoscopic procedures are not available.

Congenital esophageal stenosis associated with esophageal atresia.

PubMed

McCann, F; Michaud, L; Aspirot, A; Levesque, D; Gottrand, F; Faure, C

2015-04-01

Congenital esophageal stenosis (CES) is a rare clinical condition but is frequently associated with esophageal atresia (EA). The aim of this study is to report the diagnosis, management, and outcome of CES associated with EA. Medical charts of CES-EA patients from Lille University Hospital, Sainte-Justine Hospital, and Montreal Children's Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Seventeen patients (13 boys) were included. The incidence of CES in patients with EA was 3.6%. Fifteen patients had a type C EA, one had a type A EA, and one had an isolated tracheoesophageal fistula. Seven patients had associated additional malformations. The mean age at diagnosis was 11.6 months. All but two patients had non-specific symptoms such as regurgitations or dysphagia. One CES was diagnosed at the time of surgical repair of EA. In 12 patients, CES was suspected based on abnormal barium swallow. In the remaining four, the diagnostic was confirmed by esophagoscopy. Eleven patients were treated by dilation only (1-3 dilations/patient). Six patients underwent surgery (resection and anastomosis) because of failure of attempted dilations (1-7 dilations/patient). Esophageal perforation was encountered in three patients (18%). Three patients had histologically proven tracheobronchial remnants. CES associated with EA is frequent. A high index of suspicion for CES must remain in the presence of EA. Dilatation may be effective to treat some of them, but perforation is frequent. Surgery may be required, especially in CES secondary to ectopic tracheobronchial remnants. © 2014 International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

Comprehensive evaluation of gene expression signatures in response to electroacupuncture stimulation at Zusanli (ST36) acupoint by transcriptomic analysis.

PubMed

Wu, Jing-Shan; Lo, Hsin-Yi; Li, Chia-Cheng; Chen, Feng-Yuan; Hsiang, Chien-Yun; Ho, Tin-Yun

2017-08-15

Electroacupuncture (EA) has been applied to treat and prevent diseases for years. However, molecular events happened in both the acupunctured site and the internal organs after EA stimulation have not been clarified. Here we applied transcriptomic analysis to explore the gene expression signatures after EA stimulation. Mice were applied EA stimulation at ST36 for 15 min and nine tissues were collected three hours later for microarray analysis. We found that EA affected the expression of genes not only in the acupunctured site but also in the internal organs. EA commonly affected biological networks involved in cytoskeleton and cell adhesion, and also regulated unique process networks in specific organs, such as γ-aminobutyric acid-ergic neurotransmission in brain and inflammation process in lung. In addition, EA affected the expression of genes related to various diseases, such as neurodegenerative diseases in brain and obstructive pulmonary diseases in lung. This report applied, for the first time, a global comprehensive genome-wide approach to analyze the gene expression profiling of acupunctured site and internal organs after EA stimulation. The connection between gene expression signatures, biological processes, and diseases might provide a basis for prediction and explanation on the therapeutic potentials of acupuncture in organs.

Do changes in anal sphincter anatomy correlate with anal function in women with a history of vaginal delivery?

PubMed

Murad-Regadas, Sthela Maria; Dealcanfreitas, Iris Daiana; Regadas, Francisco Sergio Pinheiro; Rodrigues, Lusmar Veras; Fernandes, Graziela Olivia da Silva; Pereira, Jacyara de Jesus Rosa

2014-01-01

To evaluate anal sphincter anatomy using three-dimensional ultrasonography (3-DAUS) in incontinent women with vaginal delivery, correlate anatomical findings with symptoms of fecal incontinence and determine the effect of vaginal delivery on anal canal anatomy and function. Female with fecal incontinence and vaginal delivery were assessed with Wexner's score, manometry, and 3DAUS. A control group comprising asymptomatic nulliparous was included. Anal pressure, the angle of the defect and length of the external anal sphincter (EAS), the anterior and posterior internal anal sphincter (IAS), the EAS + puborectal and the gap were measured and correlated with score. Of the 62, 49 had fecal incontinence and 13 were asymptomatic. Twenty five had EAS defects, 8 had combined EAS+IAS defects, 16 had intact sphincters and continence scores were similar. Subjects with sphincter defects had a shorter anterior EAS, IAS and longer gap than women without defects. Those with a vaginal delivery and intact sphincters had a shorter anterior EAS and longer gap than nulliparous. We found correlations between resting pressure and anterior EAS and IAS length in patients with defects. Fecal incontinence symptoms did not correlate with anal pressures and anal sphincter anatomy changes, but women with sphincter defects have shorter anterior EAS and IAS and a longer gap.

Trajectories of mothers' emotional availability: relations with infant temperament in predicting attachment security.

PubMed

Kim, Bo-Ram; Chow, Sy-Miin; Bray, Bethany; Teti, Douglas M

2017-02-01

The present study examined observations of parenting quality (mothers' emotional availability - EA) during infant bedtimes at 4 points across the infants' first year, assessing relations between levels and trajectories of EA and infant attachment at 12 months and the role of infant temperament in moderating these associations. The sample (N = 128) was predominantly Euro-American (82.5%) and at low socioeconomic risk. Latent growth curve modeling with latent basis coefficients indicated substantial individual differences in initial levels and slopes in EA trajectories across the first year. Both levels of maternal EA and EA trajectories across the first year predicted 12-month infant attachment security. Although maternal EA tended to decrease across the first year in the full sample, EA trajectories that showed a "bounce-back" between 6 and 12 months, suggesting more successful maternal adaptation to an expanding infant developmental repertoire, predicted greater infant security at 12 months. In addition, linkages between latent EA trajectories and 12-month attachment were moderated by 3-month infant temperamental reactivity and regulation. These findings indicate that infant attachment security is sensitive to both static and dynamic aspects of parenting quality across the first year, and that infant temperament can interact with both in predicting infant attachment.

Early-onset progressive ataxia associated with the first CACNA1A mutation identified within the I-II loop.

PubMed

Cricchi, F; Di Lorenzo, C; Grieco, G S; Rengo, C; Cardinale, A; Racaniello, M; Santorelli, F M; Nappi, G; Pierelli, F; Casali, C

2007-03-15

Familial hemiplegic migraine type 1, spinocerebellar ataxia type 6 (SCA6) and episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2) are allelic disorders associated with mutations in the CACNA1A gene, which encodes the alpha1 subunit of the P/Q-type calcium channel (Ca(V)2.1). SCA6 and EA2 share a number of clinical features, such as prominent cerebellar involvement and good response to acetazolamide therapy. However, while SCA6 develops as a late-onset, progressive ataxia, EA2 has an earlier, and episodic, onset. We report on two sisters with a heterogeneous clinical phenotype. The first developed progressive cerebellar ataxia after age 30, without noticeable episodes of vertigo or headache. A 1 year trial with acetazolamide did not produce significant results. The other reported episodes of vertigo, headache and gait imbalance since late childhood, with good response to acetazolamide, before developing moderate chronic cerebellar ataxia. Brain MRI showed cerebellar atrophy, especially in the vermis, in both patients. Direct sequencing of CACNA1A identified a heterozygous 1360G>A mutation in exon 11 resulting in the substitution of alanine for threonine at residue 454 (p.Ala454Thr). This is the first description of a change residing in the cytoplasmic I-II loop associated with a clinical phenotype.

Functionalized Organosilicate Sorbents for Air Purification

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-12-23

Periodic Mesoporous Organosilicas (PMOs): Past, Present, and Future,” J. Nanosci. Nanotech. 6(2), 265-288 (2006). 16. D . Brandhuber , H. Peterlik, and N...tube was unsealed and heated at 60 ºC for 2 d , and then 80 ºC for 2 d . The product in the form of a white monolith was refluxed three times in 1 M HCl...FeDIX EA5 30 415 640 15 11 EuDIX EA5 23 410 660 21 28 ZnDIX EA5 16 410 640 13 48 MgDIX EA5 32 400 680 15 59 CoDIX EA5 35 380 500 N/ D N/ D † Based

48 CFR 252.204-7011 - Alternative Line Item Structure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Unit Unit price Amount 0001 Computer, Desktop with CPU, Monitor, Keyboard and Mouse 20 EA Alternative... Unit Unit Price Amount 0001 Computer, Desktop with CPU, Keyboard and Mouse 20 EA 0002 Monitor 20 EA...

48 CFR 252.204-7011 - Alternative Line Item Structure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Unit Unit price Amount 0001 Computer, Desktop with CPU, Monitor, Keyboard and Mouse 20 EA Alternative... Unit Unit Price Amount 0001 Computer, Desktop with CPU, Keyboard and Mouse 20 EA 0002 Monitor 20 EA...

48 CFR 252.204-7011 - Alternative Line Item Structure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Unit Unit price Amount 0001 Computer, Desktop with CPU, Monitor, Keyboard and Mouse 20 EA Alternative... Unit Unit Price Amount 0001 Computer, Desktop with CPU, Keyboard and Mouse 20 EA 0002 Monitor 20 EA...

48 CFR 252.204-7011 - Alternative Line Item Structure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Unit Unit price Amount 0001 Computer, Desktop with CPU, Monitor, Keyboard and Mouse 20 EA Alternative... Unit Unit Price Amount 0001 Computer, Desktop with CPU, Keyboard and Mouse 20 EA 0002 Monitor 20 EA...

47 CFR 11.61 - Tests of EAS procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... message when transmitting the required weekly test. (3) National tests. (i) All EAS Participants shall... Management Agency (FEMA). Such tests will consist of the delivery by FEMA to PEP/NP stations of a coded EAS...

Strategic environmental assessment in China: motivations, politics, and effectiveness.

PubMed

Zhu, Da; Ru, Jiang

2008-09-01

This paper examines how strategic environmental assessment has been practiced at the national level in China through 2005 and why it has been practiced in the manner observed. Based on literature reviews and interviews carried out in 2005 and 2006, we find that bureaucratic politics between environmental and nonenvironmental ministries has limited the legislation and implementation of strategic environmental assessment to environmental assessment (EA) for a set of government plans defined in the 2003 Environmental Impact Assessment Law. Interviewees from environmental and nonenvironmental ministries and key research institutes have reported that few planning EAs have been performed at the sectoral level. Nonenvironmental ministries have either evaded the 2003 Environmental Impact Assessment Law and have not undertaken required planning EA or have organized planning EA on their own without participation by the State Environmental Protection Administration. The rising tension between the environmental and nonenvironmental ministries has limited the role of planning EA as a participatory decision-making tool. In addition to bureaucratic politics, we find that weak public participation and underemphasis on social analysis in planning EA may have further compromised the utility of planning EA.

Ethacrynic acid improves the antitumor effects of irreversible epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors in breast cancer.

PubMed

Liu, Bing; Huang, XinPing; Hu, YunLong; Chen, TingTing; Peng, BoYa; Gao, NingNing; Jin, ZhenChao; Jia, TieLiu; Zhang, Na; Wang, ZhuLin; Jin, GuangYi

2016-09-06

Prolonged treatment of breast cancer with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) often results in acquired resistance and a narrow therapeutic index. One strategy to improve the therapeutic effects of EGFR TKIs is to combine them with drugs used for other clinical indications. Ethacrynic acid (EA) is an FDA approved drug that may have antitumor effects and may enhance the cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic agents by binding to glutathione and inhibiting WNT signaling. While the α,β-unsaturated-keto structure of EA is similar to that of irreversible TKIs, the mechanism of action of EA when combined with irreversible EGFR TKIs in breast cancer remains unknown. We therefore investigated the combination of irreversible EGFR TKIs and EA. We found that irreversible EGFR TKIs and EA synergistically inhibit breast cancer both in vitro and in vivo. The combination of EGFR TKIs and EA induces necrosis and cell cycle arrest and represses WNT/β-catenin signaling as well as MAPK-ERK1/2 signaling. We conclude that EA synergistically enhances the antitumor effects of irreversible EGFR TKIs in breast cancer.

The role of experiential avoidance in obsessive-compulsive personality disorder traits.

PubMed

Wheaton, Michael G; Pinto, Anthony

2017-10-01

Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) is one of the most prevalent personality disorders, yet it remains an understudied phenomenon. Experiential avoidance (EA) has been investigated as a factor relevant in many forms of psychopathology, including borderline personality disorder. To date however, no study has yet investigated whether EA might also be relevant to OCPD. We administered a measure of EA and a multidimensional OCPD measure (assessing 5 OCPD trait dimensions and overall severity) to a large community sample (N = 571) as well as a group of individuals with self-identified OCPD features (N = 53). Results revealed that the OCPD group experienced heightened EA relative to the unscreened community sample, even controlling for group differences in distress symptoms. Correlational analyses showed significant relationships between EA and all 5 OCPD trait dimensions and overall severity. Moreover, EA accounted for OCPD traits and severity after controlling for symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Implications for the role of EA in OCPD, including treatment implications, are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Predictive factors for complications in children with esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula.

PubMed

Shah, R; Varjavandi, V; Krishnan, U

2015-04-01

The objective of this study was to describe the incidence of complications in children with esophageal atresia (EA) with or without tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) at a tertiary pediatric hospital and to identify predictive factors for their occurrence. A retrospective chart review of 110 patients born in or transferred to Sydney Children's Hospital with EA/TEF between January 1999 and December 2010 was done. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed to identify predictive factors for the occurrence of complications in these children. From univariate analysis, early esophageal stricture formation was more likely in children with 'long-gap' EA (odds ratio [OR] = 16.32). Patients with early strictures were more likely to develop chest infections (OR = 3.33). Patients with severe tracheomalacia were more likely to experience 'cyanotic/dying' (OR = 180) and undergo aortopexy (OR = 549). Patients who had gastroesophageal reflux disease were significantly more likely to require fundoplication (OR = 10.83) and undergo aortopexy (OR = 6.417). From multivariate analysis, 'long-gap' EA was a significant predictive factor for late esophageal stricture formation (P = 0.007) and for gastrostomy insertion (P = 0.001). Reflux was a significant predictive factor for requiring fundoplication (P = 0.007) and gastrostomy (P = 0.002). Gastrostomy insertion (P = 0.000) was a significant predictive factor for undergoing fundoplication. Having a prior fundoplication (P = 0.001) was a significant predictive factor for undergoing a subsequent aortopexy. Predictive factors for the occurrence of complications post EA/TEF repair were identified in this large single centre pediatric study. © 2014 International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

suPAR level is associated with myocardial impairment assessed with advanced echocardiography in patients with type 1 diabetes with normal ejection fraction and without known heart disease or end-stage renal disease.

PubMed

Theilade, Simone; Rossing, Peter; Eugen-Olsen, Jesper; Jensen, Jan S; Jensen, Magnus T

2016-06-01

Heart disease is a common fatal diabetes-related complication. Early detection of patients at particular risk of heart disease is of prime importance. Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) is a novel biomarker for development of cardiovascular disease. We investigate if suPAR is associated with early myocardial impairment assessed with advanced echocardiographic methods. In an observational study on 318 patients with type 1 diabetes without known heart disease and with normal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (biplane LVEF >45%), we performed conventional, tissue Doppler and speckle tracking echocardiography, and measured plasma suPAR levels. Associations between myocardial function and suPAR levels were studied in adjusted models including significant covariates. Patients were 55±12 years (mean±s.d.) and 160 (50%) males. Median (interquartile range) suPAR was 3.4 (1.7) ng/mL and LVEF was 58±5%. suPAR levels were not associated with LVEF (P=0.11). In adjusted models, higher suPAR levels were independently associated with both impaired systolic function assessed with global longitudinal strain (GLS) and tissue velocity s', and with impaired diastolic measures a' and e'/a' (all P=0.034). In multivariable analysis including cardiovascular risk factors and both systolic and diastolic measures (GLS and e'/a'), both remained independently associated with suPAR levels (P=0.012). In patients with type 1 diabetes with normal LVEF and without known heart disease, suPAR is associated with early systolic and diastolic myocardial impairment. Our study implies that both suPAR and advanced echocardiography are useful diagnostic tools for identifying patients with diabetes at risk of future clinical heart disease, suited for intensified medical therapy. © 2016 European Society of Endocrinology.

[Effects of Electroacupunctrue Combined with Dietary Control on Peroxisome Proliferator-activa- ted Receptor-α, and Liver Fatty Acid-binding Protein Levels in Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Rats].

PubMed

Zhang, Yi; Tang, Cheng-lin; Tian, Yuan; Yuan, Hai-zhou; Yang, Hui; Tang, Nian-zhen; Gao, Rui-qi; Cao, Jing

2015-10-01

To observe the effect of electroacupunctrue (EA) intervention or EA combined with dietary control on peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α, and liver fatty acid-binding protein (L-FABP) levels in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) rats, so as to reveal its mechanism underlying improvement of NAFLD. Sixty SD male rats were randomly divided into common diet (control) group (n = 10) and high-fat diet group (n = 45). The NAFLD model was established by feeding the animals with high-fat forage (HFF, including cholesterol, sodium cholate, propylthiouracil, sucrose, lard and common forage) for 5 weeks. Forty NAFLD rats were then randomized into model, EA + HFF, low-fat forage (LFF) and EA+ LFF groups (n = 10 rats in each group). EA (4 Hz/20 Hz, 3 mA) was applied to ipsilateral "Zusanli" (ST 36),"Sanyinjiao" (SP 6) and "Taichong" (LR 3) for 20 min, once daily for 4 weeks. The pathologic changes of the hepatic tissue were detected by H. E. staining. Serum total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) contents were determined by using enzymatic methods, serum free fat acids (FFA) content was detected by colorimetry. The expression levels of PPAR-α and L-FABP protein and gene of the liver tissue were determined by Western blot and RT-PCR, respectively. H. E. staining showed that the hepatocytes presented moderate or severe bullous adipose degeneration in rats of the model group, vesicular steatosis in the EA + HFF and LFF groups, turned to almost normal but with small amount of lipid droplets in the EA + LFF group. The contents of serum TC, TG and FFA were significantly higher in the model group than in the control group (P < 0.05), and were obviously decreased in the EA + HFF, LFF and EA + LFF groups in comparison with the model group (P < 0.05). Compared to the control group, hepatic PPAR-α protein and mRNA were markedly down-regulated in the model group, and hepatic L-FABP protein and mRNA considerably up-regulated in the model group (P < 0.05). Following EA intervention and low fat diet feeding, PPAR-α protein and mRNA were markedly up-regulated while L-FABP protein and mRNA remarkably down-regulated in the EA + HFF, LFF and EA + LFF groups (P < 0.05). EA intervention or EA combined with dietary control can relieve hepatic pathological changes in NAFLD rats, which may be related to its effects in down-regulating blood lipid level and hepatic L-FABP protein and mRNA expression and in up-regulating PPAR-α protein and mRNA expression, and the effect of combined treatment was relatively better than simple EA or LFF treatment.

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

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... on a case-by-case basis upon submission by the EA or Regional licensee of: (A) A technical analysis... by a licensee or the Commission, an EA or regional licensee shall furnish the technical parameters...

47 CFR 11.54 - EAS operation during a National Level emergency.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... licensees and DBS providers may choose their two EAS sources, one of which must be a PEP station. (2... header codes for a national emergency. (3) After completing the above transmission procedures, key EAS...

47 CFR 11.54 - EAS operation during a National Level emergency.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... licensees and DBS providers may choose their two EAS sources, one of which must be a PEP station. (2... header codes for a national emergency. (3) After completing the above transmission procedures, key EAS...

The impact of extracurricular activities participation on youth delinquent behaviors: An instrumental variables approach.

PubMed

Han, Sehee; Lee, Jonathan; Park, Kyung-Gook

2017-07-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the association between extracurricular activities (EA) participation and youth delinquency while tackling an endogeneity problem of EA participation. Using survey data of 12th graders in South Korea (n = 1943), this study employed an instrumental variables approach to address the self-selection problem of EA participation as the data for this study was based on an observational study design. We found a positive association between EA participation and youth delinquency based on conventional regression analysis. By contrast, we found a negative association between EA participation and youth delinquency based on an instrumental variables approach. These results indicate that caution should be exercised when we interpret the effect of EA participation on youth delinquency based on observational study designs. Copyright © 2017 The Foundation for Professionals in Services for Adolescents. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Antioxidant activities of Vaccinium uliginosum L. extract and its active components.

PubMed

Kim, Young-Hee; Bang, Chae-Young; Won, Eun-Kyung; Kim, Jong-Pyung; Choung, Se-Young

2009-08-01

Vaccinium uliginosum L. (also known as bog bilberry) is a low-growing deciduous shrub classified in the Ericaceae family of plants, which includes numerous Vaccinium berries, blueberries, and cranberries. Berries of the Ericaceae family are known to contain organic acids, vitamins, glycosides, and anthocyanins and have been reported to have antioxidant activity. In order to identify the antioxidative principles of V. uliginosum, we separated water extracts into polyphenol, anthocyanin-rich (pigment), and sugar/acid fractions by using ethyl acetate, acidic methanol (MeOH), and 0.01 N HCl. Antioxidant activities were assessed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), superoxide radical, and hydroxyl radical assays. The crude extract and fractions containing polyphenol and pigment exhibited the greatest antioxidant activities with 50% inhibitory concentration (IC(50)) values of 85.8 microg/mL, 33.2 microg/mL, and 16.7 microg/mL, respectively, for the DPPH assay and 48.1 microg/mL, 83.8 microg/mL, and 51.9 microg/mL for the nonenzymatic superoxide radical assay. The fractions containing polyphenol, pigment, and sugar/acid significantly inhibited xanthine oxidase. To investigate the functional compounds from the active fractions, we purified the polyphenol fraction and separated the compounds by using chromatographic techniques. The crude extract was dissolved in MeOH and further purified by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) using MeOH-water (35:65 vol/vol) (with 0.04% trifluoroacetic acid) to obtain VU-EA-1 (16.6 mg), VU-EA-2 (8.5 mg), VU-EA-3 (19.8 mg), VU-EA-4 (12.8 mg), VU-EA-5 (6.5 mg), and VU-EA-6 (23.5 mg). The MeOH-washed fraction from the HPLC was concentrated and purified by reversed-phase HPLC using MeOH-water (50:50 vol/vol) to give VU-EA-10 (12.4 mg). Antioxidant activity was assessed by DPPH, superoxide radical, and hydroxyl radical assays. The isolated compounds exhibited dose-dependent antioxidant activity with IC(50) values of 7.6 microg/mL (VU-EA-10) for the DPPH assay, 67.8 microg/mL (VU-EA-4) for the nonenzymatic superoxide radical assay, and 3.7 microg/mL (VU-EA-10) and 7.6 microg/ml (VU-EA-6) for the enzymatic superoxide radical assay and 30% inhibitory concentration values of 0.58 microg/mL (VU-EA-1), 0.57 microg/mL (VU-EA-5), and 0.70 microg/mL (VU-EA-6) for the hydroxyl radical assay. In conclusion, V. uliginosum had potent antioxidative activity, and flavonoids were isolated as the main active principles.

Central arterial stiffness and diastolic dysfunction are associated with insulin resistance and abdominal obesity in young women but polycystic ovary syndrome does not confer additional risk.

PubMed

Rees, E; Coulson, R; Dunstan, F; Evans, W D; Blundell, H L; Luzio, S D; Dunseath, G; Halcox, J P; Fraser, A G; Rees, D A

2014-09-01

Are arterial stiffness, carotid intima-media thickness and diastolic dysfunction increased in young women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) independently of the effects of obesity? Insulin resistance and central obesity are associated with subclinical cardiovascular dysfunction in young women, but a diagnosis of PCOS does not appear to confer additional risk at this age. Some studies have shown that young women with PCOS may have increased measures of cardiovascular risk, including arterial stiffness, carotid intima-media thickness and myocardial dysfunction. However, it is difficult to establish how much of this risk is due to PCOS per se and how much is due to obesity and insulin resistance, which are common in PCOS and themselves associated with greater vascular risk. This cross-sectional study comprised 84 women with PCOS and 95 healthy volunteers, aged 16-45 years. The study was conducted in a university hospital. Subjects underwent a comprehensive assessment of body composition (including computed tomography (CT) assessment of visceral fat; VF), measurements of arterial stiffness (aortic pulse wave velocity; aPWV), common carotid intima-media thickness (ccIMT), diastolic function (longitudinal tissue velocity; e':a') and endocrinological measures. A sample size of 80 in each group gave 80% power for detecting a difference of 0.45 m/s in aPWV or a difference of 0.25 in e':a'. After adjustment for age and body mass index (BMI), PCOS subjects had a greater insulin response (insulin area under the curve-IAUC) following glucose challenge (adjusted difference [AD] 35 900 pmol min/l, P < 0.001) and higher testosterone (AD 0.57 nmol/l, P < 0.001) and high molecular weight adiponectin than controls (AD 3.01 µg/ml, P = 0.02), but no significant differences in aPWV (AD -0.13 m/s, P = 0.33), ccIMT (AD -0.01 mm, P = 0.13), or e':a' (AD -0.01, P = 0.86) were observed. After adjustment for age, height and central pulse pressure, e':a' and aPWV were associated with logVF and IAUC. ccIMT was not related to logVF. The relationships between e':a' or aPWV and insulin resistance were only partly attenuated by adjusting for logVF. There was no significant relationship between aPWV or e':a' and either testosterone or adiponectin. The study recruited young women meeting the Rotterdam criteria for PCOS diagnosis; hence our findings may not be generalizable to older patients or those meeting other definitions of the syndrome. Biochemical hyperandrogenism was based solely on measurement of total testosterone. Cases and controls were not matched in advance for age and BMI, although the influence of these variables on the cardiovascular outcome measures was adjusted for. This study shows that central arterial stiffness and diastolic dysfunction are not increased in young women with PCOS, whereas they are associated with both insulin resistance and central obesity. Obesity thus represents the greatest modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease in young women with PCOS and lifestyle measures which target weight reduction are critical. This study received no specific grant support from any funding body. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

The LEAF questionnaire: a screening tool for the identification of female athletes at risk for the female athlete triad.

PubMed

Melin, Anna; Tornberg, Asa B; Skouby, Sven; Faber, Jens; Ritz, Christian; Sjödin, Anders; Sundgot-Borgen, Jorunn

2014-04-01

Low energy availability (EA) in female athletes with or without an eating disorder (ED) increases the risk of oligomenorrhoea/functional hypothalamic amenorrhoea and impaired bone health, a syndrome called the female athlete triad (Triad). There are validated psychometric instruments developed to detect disordered eating behaviour (DE), but no validated screening tool to detect persistent low EA and Triad conditions, with or without DE/ED, is available. The aim of this observational study was to develop and test a screening tool designed to identify female athletes at risk for the Triad. Female athletes (n=84) with 18-39 years of age and training ≥5 times/week filled out the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q), which comprised questions regarding injuries and gastrointestinal and reproductive function. Reliability and internal consistency were evaluated in a subsample of female dancers and endurance athletes (n=37). Discriminant as well as concurrent validity was evaluated by testing self-reported data against measured current EA, menstrual function and bone health in endurance athletes from sports such as long distance running and triathlon (n=45). The 25-item LEAF-Q produced an acceptable sensitivity (78%) and specificity (90%) in order to correctly classify current EA and/or reproductive function and/or bone health. The LEAF-Q is brief and easy to administer, and relevant as a complement to existing validated DE screening instruments, when screening female athletes at risk for the Triad, in order to enable early detection and intervention.

An MJO-Mediated Mechanism to Explain ENSO and IOD Impacts on East African Short Rains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaitchik, B. F.; Berhane, F.; Gnanadesikan, A.

2015-12-01

Previous studies have found that the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) have significant impacts on rainfall over East Africa (EA) during the short rains (Oct-Dec). However, not all ENSO and IOD events are associated with significant precipitation anomalies over EA. Our analysis shows that the IOD and ENSO influence EA rainfall by modifying the MJO. Composite analysis of rainfall and outgoing longwave radiation data show that the MJO over the Indian Ocean (phases 2 and 3 of the Wheeler and Hendon index) is associated with significant increase in precipitation over EA during El Niño. In La Niña and non-ENSO years, the MJO over the Indian Ocean has very weak impacts on EA convection and precipitation. Although previous studies have found that El Niño / La Niña events are associated with anomalous wetness/dryness over EA, the associations are not evident in the absence of the MJO. Similarly, the IOD exhibits strong associations with EA precipitation when there is MJO activity over the Indian Ocean. During the positive phase of the IOD, the MJO over the Indian Ocean has impacts that extend to EA. In the absence of the MJO, however, the IOD shows weak associations with EA precipitation. Furthermore, there are more MJO days in the Indian Ocean during El Niño and positive IOD events, which implies stronger impacts on EA. During La Niña events more MJO days are observed in the Pacific Ocean, favoring subsidence over the western Indian Ocean and dry anomalies over EA. These observations suggest two critical MJO-related questions that must be addressed in order to explain EA short rain variability typically attributed to ENSO or IOD: first, how do ENSO and IOD modify background conditions in a way that causes Indian Ocean MJO activity to be more strongly connected to EA under El Niño and IOD positive conditions, and second, why is it that El Niño and IOD positive states slow MJO propagation over the Indian Ocean and speed it over the Pacific? This presentation will review mechanisms consistent with each phenomenon, including changes in lower troposphere wind patterns, upper level mean flow, vorticity gradients associated with ∂2U/∂2y, and zonal temperature gradients affecting the coupling between convection and the induced convergence of moist static energy.

A new type of power energy for accelerating chemical reactions: the nature of a microwave-driving force for accelerating chemical reactions.

PubMed

Zhou, Jicheng; Xu, Wentao; You, Zhimin; Wang, Zhe; Luo, Yushang; Gao, Lingfei; Yin, Cheng; Peng, Renjie; Lan, Lixin

2016-04-27

The use of microwave (MW) irradiation to increase the rate of chemical reactions has attracted much attention recently in nearly all fields of chemistry due to substantial enhancements in reaction rates. However, the intrinsic nature of the effects of MW irradiation on chemical reactions remains unclear. Herein, the highly effective conversion of NO and decomposition of H2S via MW catalysis were investigated. The temperature was decreased by several hundred degrees centigrade. Moreover, the apparent activation energy (Ea') decreased substantially under MW irradiation. Importantly, for the first time, a model of the interactions between microwave electromagnetic waves and molecules is proposed to elucidate the intrinsic reason for the reduction in the Ea' under MW irradiation, and a formula for the quantitative estimation of the decrease in the Ea' was determined. MW irradiation energy was partially transformed to reduce the Ea', and MW irradiation is a new type of power energy for speeding up chemical reactions. The effect of MW irradiation on chemical reactions was determined. Our findings challenge both the classical view of MW irradiation as only a heating method and the controversial MW non-thermal effect and open a promising avenue for the development of novel MW catalytic reaction technology.

Environmental assessment: Yucca Mountain site, Nevada research and development area, Nevada; Volume 1

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

NONE

1986-05-01

In February 1983, the US Department of Energy (DOE) identified the Yucca Mountain site in Nevada as one of nine potentially acceptable sites for a mined geologic repository for spent nuclear fuel and high- level radioactive waste. The site is in the Great Basin, which is one of five distinct geohydrologic settings considered for the first repository. To determine their suitability, the Yucca Mountain site and the eight other potentially acceptable sites have been evaluated in accordance with the DOE`s General Guideline for the Recommendation of Sites for the Nuclear Waste Repositories. These evaluations were reported in draft environmental assessmentsmore » (EA), which were issued for public review and comment. After considering the comments received on the draft EAs, the DOE prepared the final EAs. On the basis of the evaluations reported in this EA, the DOE found that the Yucca Mountain site is not disqualified under the guidelines. The DOE has also found that it is suitable for site characterization because the evidence does not support a conclusion that the site will not be able to meet each of the qualifying conditions specified in the guidelines. On the basis of these findings, the DOE is nominating the Yucca Mountain site as of five sites suitable for characterization.« less

Remote identification of research and educational activities using spectral properties of nighttime light

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rybnikova, Nataliya A.; Portnov, Boris A.

2017-06-01

Research and educational activities (R&EAs) are major forces behind modern economic growth. However, data on geographic location of such activities are often poorly reported. According to our research hypothesis, intensities and spectral properties of artificial light-at-night (ALAN) can be used for remote identification of R&EAs, due to their unique ALAN signatures. In order to develop activity identification models, we carried out a series of in situ measurements of ALAN intensities and spectral properties in a major metropolitan area in Israel. For this task, we used an illuminance CL-500A spectrophotometer that measures the total intensity and spectral irradiance of ALAN, incremented by a 1-nm pitch, from 360 to 780 nm. As our analysis shows, logistic regressions, incorporating ALAN intensities at the peak or near-peak wavelengths, and geographical attributes of the measurement sites as controls, succeeded to predict correctly up to 98.6% of the actual locations of R&EAs. A digital camera satellite image, obtained from the Astronaut Photography Database, was used for the model's validation. According to the validation results, the actual locations of R&EAs coincided well with the estimated high probability areas, as confirmed by the values of Cohen's Kappa index of up to 64%, which indicate a reasonable level of agreement.

Radiosensitizing effect of ellagic acid on growth of Hepatocellular carcinoma cells: an in vitro study.

PubMed

Das, Ujjal; Biswas, Sushobhan; Chattopadhyay, Sreya; Chakraborty, Anindita; Dey Sharma, Rakhi; Banerji, Asoke; Dey, Sanjit

2017-10-25

Failure of treatment for cancer in clinic by radio/chemotherapy is generally attributed to tumour resistance. Therefore, it is important to develop strategies to increase the cytotoxicity of tumour cells by radiation in combination with unique tumour selective cytotoxic agents. We evaluated the potential of ellagic acid (EA) as an enhancer of oxidative stress in cancer cells. HepG2 cells were treated with EA (10 µM) for 12 h prior to exposure of single 7.5 Gy dose of irradiation. Treatment of HepG2 cells with EA and gamma radiation showed increased reactive oxygen species generation, up regulation of p53 protein expression, decreased survival markers level like p-Akt, p-NF-kB and p-STAT3 which were significantly higher after radiation treatment alone. We also found that combination treatment increased G2/M phase cell population, decreased IL-6, COX-2 and TNF-α expression and caused a loss in mitochondrial membrane potential with decreased level of angiogenesis marker MMP-9. Over expression of Bax and activation of caspase 3 indicated the apoptosis of the cells. The results provided a strong unique strategy to kill cancer cells HepG2, using less radiation dose along with effective pro-oxidant dose of EA.

Management of wildlife causing damage at Argonne National Laboratory-East, DuPage County, Illinois

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

NONE

1995-04-01

The DOE, after an independent review, has adopted an Environmental Assessment (EA) prepared by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) which evaluates use of an Integrated Wildlife Damage Management approach at Argonne National Laboratory-East (ANL-E) in DuPage County, Illinois (April 1995). In 1994, the USDA issued a programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) that covers nationwide animal damage control activities. The EA for Management of Wildlife Causing Damage at ANL-E tiers off this programmatic EIS. The USDA wrote the EA as a result of DOE`s request to USDA to prepare and implement a comprehensive Wildlife Management Damage Plan; the USDA hasmore » authority for animal damage control under the Animal Damage Control Act of 1931, as amended, and the Rural Development, Agriculture and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 1988. DOE has determined, based on the analysis in the EA, that the proposed action does not constitute a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment within the meaning of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA). Therefore, the preparation of an EIS is not required. This report contains the Environmental Assessment, as well as the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI).« less

Liquid scintillator composition optimization for use in ultra-high energy cosmic ray detector systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beznosko, Dmitriy; Batyrkhanov, Ayan; Iakovlev, Alexander; Yelshibekov, Khalykbek

2017-06-01

The Horizon-T (HT) detector system and the currently under R&D HT-KZ detector system are designed for the detection of Extensive Air Showers (EAS) with energies above ˜1016 eV (˜1017 eV for HT-KZ). The main challenges in both detector systems are the fast time resolutions needed for studying the temporary structure of EAS, and the extremely wide dynamic range needed to study the spatial distribution of charged particles in EAS disks. In order to detect the low-density of charged particles far from the EAS axis, a large-area detector is needed. Liquid scintillator with low cost would be a possible solution for such a detector, including the recently developed safe and low-cost water-based liquid scintillators. Liquid organic scintillators give a fast and high light yield (LY) for charged particle detection. It is similar to plastic scintillator in properties but is cost effective for large volumes. With liquid scintillator, one can create detection volumes that are symmetric and yet retain high LY detection. Different wavelength shifters affect the scintillation light by changing the output spectrum into the best detection region. Results of the latest studies of the components optimization in the liquid scintillator formulae are presented.

Environmental assessment: Yucca Mountain site, Nevada research and development area, Nevada; Volume 3

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

NONE

1986-05-01

In February 1983, the US Department of Energy (DOE) identified the Yucca Mountain site in Nevada as one of nine potentially acceptable sites for a mined geologic repository for spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste. The site is in the Great Basin, which is one of five distinct geohydrologic settings considered for the first repository. To determine their suitability, the Yucca Mountain site and the eight other potentially acceptable sites have been evaluated in accordance with the DOE`s General Guidelines for the Recommendation of Sites for the Nuclear Waste Repositories. These evaluations were reported in draft environmental assessments (EAs),more » which were issued for public review and comment. After considering the comments received on the draft EAs, the DOE prepared the final EAs. On the basis of the evaluations reported in this EA, the DOE has found that the Yucca Mountain site is not disqualified under the guidelines. The DOE has also found that it is suitable for site characterization because the evidence does not support a conclusion that the site will not be able to meet each of the qualifying conditions specified in the guidelines. On the basis of these findings, the DOE is nominating the Yucca Mountain site as one of five sites suitable for characterization.« less

Electroacupuncture remediates glial dysfunction and ameliorates neurodegeneration in the astrocytic α-synuclein mutant mouse model.

PubMed

Deng, Jiahui; Lv, E; Yang, Jian; Gong, Xiaoli; Zhang, Wenzhong; Liang, Xibin; Wang, Jiazeng; Jia, Jun; Wang, Xiaomin

2015-05-28

The acupuncture or electroacupuncture (EA) shows the therapeutic effect on various neurodegenerative diseases. This effect was thought to be partially achieved by its ability to alleviate existing neuroinflammation and glial dysfunction. In this study, we systematically investigated the effect of EA on abnormal neurochemical changes and motor symptoms in a mouse neurodegenerative disease model. The transgenic mouse which expresses a mutant α-synuclein (α-syn) protein, A53T α-syn, in brain astrocytic cells was used. These mice exhibit extensive neuroinflammatory and motor phenotypes of neurodegenerative disorders. In this study, the effects of EA on these phenotypic changes were examined in these mice. EA improved the movement detected in multiple motor tests in A53T mutant mice. At the cellular level, EA significantly reduced the activation of microglia and prevented the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the midbrain and motor neurons in the spinal cord. At the molecular level, EA suppressed the abnormal elevation of proinflammatory factors (tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β) in the striatum and midbrain of A53T mice. In contrast, EA increased striatal and midbrain expression of a transcription factor, nuclear factor E2-related factor 2, and its downstream antioxidants (heme oxygenase-1 and glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunits). These results suggest that EA possesses the ability to ameliorate mutant α-syn-induced motor abnormalities. This ability may be due to that EA enhances both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities and suppresses aberrant glial activation in the diseased sites of brains.

Incidence and risk factors of emergence agitation in pediatric patients after general anesthesia.

PubMed

Saringcarinkul, Ananchanok; Manchupong, Sithapan; Punjasawadwong, Yodying

2008-08-01

To study the incidence and evaluate factors associated with emergence agitation (EA) in pediatrics after general anesthesia. A prospective observational study was conducted in 250 pediatric patients aged 2-9 years, who received general anesthesia for various operative procedures in Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital between October 2006 and September 2007. The incidence of EA was assessed Difficult parental-separation behavior, pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions, and adverse events were also recorded Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to determine the factors associated with EA. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered significant. One hundred and eight children (43.2%) had EA, with an average duration of 9.6 +/- 6.8 minutes. EA associated with adverse events occurred in 32 agitated children (29.6%). From univariate analysis, factors associated with EA were difficult parental-separation behavior, preschool age (2-5 years), and general anesthesia with sevoflurane. However; difficult parental-separation behavior; and preschool age were the only factors significantly associated with EA in the multiple logistic regression analysis with OR = 3.021 (95% CI = 1.680, 5.431, p < 0.001) and OR = 1.857 (95% CI = 1.075, 3.206, p = 0.026), respectively. The present study indicated that the incidence of EA was high in PACU. Preschool children and difficult parental-separation behavior were the predictive factors of agitation on emergence. Therefore, anesthesia personnel responsible for pediatric anesthesia should have essential skills and knowledge to effectively care for children before, during, and after an operation, including implementing the methods that minimize incidence of EA.

Sperm Chromatin Immaturity Observed in Short Abstinence Ejaculates Affects DNA Integrity and Longevity In Vitro

PubMed Central

Salian, Sujith Raj; Kumar, Dayanidhi; Singh, Vikram Jeet; D’Souza, Fiona; Kalthur, Guruprasad; Kamath, Asha; Adiga, Satish Kumar

2016-01-01

Background The influence of ejaculatory abstinence (EA) on semen parameters and subsequent reproductive outcome is still debatable; hence understanding the impact of EA on sperm structural and functional integrity may provide a valuable information on predicting successful clinical outcome. Objective To understand the influence of EA on sperm chromatin maturity, integrity, longevity and global methylation status. Methods This experimental prospective study included 76 ejaculates from 19 healthy volunteers who provided ejaculates after observing 1, 3, 5 and 7 days of abstinence. Sperm chromatin maturity, DNA integrity and global methylation status were assessed in the neat ejaculate. Sperm motility, DNA integrity and longevity were assessed in the processed fraction of the fresh and frozen-thawed ejaculates to determine their association with the length of EA. Results Spermatozoa from 1 day ejaculatory abstinence (EA-1) displayed significantly higher level of sperm chromatin immaturity in comparison to EA-3 (P < 0.05) and EA-5 (P < 0.01) whereas; the number of 5-methyl cytosine immunostained spermatozoa did not vary significantly across groups. On the other hand, in vitro incubation of processed ejaculate from EA-1 resulted in approximately 20 and 40 fold increase in the DNA fragmented spermatozoa at the end of 6 and 24h respectively (P < 0.01–0.001). Conclusion Use of short-term EA for therapeutic fertilization would be a clinically valuable strategy to improve the DNA quality. However, use of such spermatozoa after prolonged incubation in vitro should be avoided as it can carry a substantial risk of transmitting DNA fragmentation to the oocytes. PMID:27043437

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

PubMed

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

2017-03-01

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

47 CFR 11.54 - EAS operation during a National Level emergency.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... emergency, EAS Participants may transmit in lieu of the EAS audio feed an audio feed of the President's voice message from an alternative source, such as a broadcast network audio feed. [77 FR 16705, Mar. 22...

47 CFR 11.54 - EAS operation during a National Level emergency.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... emergency, EAS Participants may transmit in lieu of the EAS audio feed an audio feed of the President's voice message from an alternative source, such as a broadcast network audio feed. [77 FR 16705, Mar. 22...

47 CFR 11.54 - EAS operation during a National Level emergency.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... emergency, EAS Participants may transmit in lieu of the EAS audio feed an audio feed of the President's voice message from an alternative source, such as a broadcast network audio feed. [77 FR 16705, Mar. 22...

47 CFR 90.761 - EA and Regional licenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Regional licenses. (a) EA licenses for spectrum blocks listed in Table 2 of § 90.721(b) are available in 175 Economic Areas (EAs) as defined in § 90.7. (b) Regional licenses for spectrum blocks listed in...

47 CFR 90.761 - EA and Regional licenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Regional licenses. (a) EA licenses for spectrum blocks listed in Table 2 of § 90.721(b) are available in 175 Economic Areas (EAs) as defined in § 90.7. (b) Regional licenses for spectrum blocks listed in...

47 CFR 90.761 - EA and Regional licenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Regional licenses. (a) EA licenses for spectrum blocks listed in Table 2 of § 90.721(b) are available in 175 Economic Areas (EAs) as defined in § 90.7. (b) Regional licenses for spectrum blocks listed in...

Epidural analgesia during labour, routinely or on request: a cost-effectiveness analysis.

PubMed

Bonouvrié, Kimberley; van den Bosch, Anouk; Roumen, Frans J M E; van Kuijk, Sander M; Nijhuis, Jan G; Evers, Silvia M A A; Wassen, Martine M L H

2016-12-01

To assess the cost-effectiveness of routine labour epidural analgesia (EA), from a societal perspective, as compared with labour analgesia on request. Women delivering of a singleton in cephalic presentation beyond 36+0 weeks' gestation were randomly allocated to routine labour EA or analgesia on request in one university and one non-university teaching hospital in the Netherlands. Costs included all medical, non-medical and indirect costs from randomisation to 6 weeks postpartum. Effectiveness was defined as a non-operative, spontaneous vaginal delivery without EA-related maternal adverse effects. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was defined as the ratio of the difference in costs and the difference in effectiveness between both groups. Data were analysed according to intention to treat and divided into a base case analysis and a sensitivity analysis. Total delivery costs in the routine EA group (n=233) were higher than in the labour on request group (n=255) (difference -€ 322, 95% CI -€ 60 to € 355) due to more medication costs (including EA), a longer stay in the labour ward, and more operations including caesarean sections. Total postpartum hospital costs in the routine EA group were lower (difference -€ 344, 95% CI -€ 1338 to € 621) mainly due to less neonatal admissions (difference -€ 472, 95% CI -€ 1297 to € 331), whereas total postpartum home and others costs were comparable (difference -€ 20, 95% CI -€ 267 to € 248, and -€ 1, 95% CI -€ 67 to € 284, respectively). As a result, the overall mean costs per woman were comparable between the routine EA group and the analgesia on request group (€ 8.708 and € 8.710, respectively, mean difference -€ 2, 95% CI -€ 1.012 to € 916). Routine labour EA resulted in more deliveries with maternal adverse effects, nevertheless the ICER remained low (€ 8; bootstrap 95% CI -€ 6.120 to € 8.659). The cost-effectiveness acceptability curve indicated a low probability that routine EA is cost-effective. Routine labour EA generates comparable costs as analgesia on request, but results in more operative deliveries and more EA-related maternal adverse effects. Based on cost-effectiveness, no preference can be given to routine labour EA as compared with analgesia on request. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Estrogenic chemicals often leach from BPA-free plastic products that are replacements for BPA-containing polycarbonate products.

PubMed

Bittner, George D; Yang, Chun Z; Stoner, Matthew A

2014-05-28

Xenobiotic chemicals with estrogenic activity (EA), such as bisphenol A (BPA), have been reported to have potential adverse health effects in mammals, including humans, especially in fetal and infant stages. Concerns about safety have caused many manufacturers to use alternatives to polycarbonate (PC) resins to make hard and clear, reusable, plastic products that do not leach BPA. However, no study has focused on whether such BPA-free PC-replacement products, chosen for their perceived higher safety, especially for babies, also release other chemicals that have EA. We used two, well-established, mammalian cell-based, assays (MCF-7 and BG1Luc) to assess the EA of chemicals that leached into over 1000 saline or ethanol extracts of 50 unstressed or stressed (autoclaving, microwaving, and UV radiation) BPA-free PC-replacement products. An EA antagonist, ICI 182,780, was used to confirm that agonist activity in leachates was due to chemicals that activated the mammalian estrogen receptor. Many unstressed and stressed, PC-replacement-products made from acrylic, polystyrene, polyethersulfone, and Tritan™ resins leached chemicals with EA, including products made for use by babies. Exposure to various forms of UV radiation often increased the leaching of chemicals with EA. In contrast, some BPA-free PC-replacement products made from glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate or cyclic olefin polymer or co-polymer resins did not release chemicals with detectable EA under any conditions tested. This hazard assessment survey showed that many BPA-free PC- replacement products still leached chemicals having significant levels of EA, as did BPA-containing PC counterparts they were meant to replace. That is, BPA-free did not mean EA-free. However, this study also showed that some PC-replacement products did not leach chemicals having significant levels of EA. That is, EA-free PC-replacement products could be made in commercial quantities at prices that compete with PC-replacement products that were not BPA-free. Since plastic products often have advantages (price, weight, shatter-resistance, etc.) compared to other materials such as steel or glass, it is not necessary to forgo those advantages to avoid release into foodstuffs or the environment of chemicals having EA that may have potential adverse effects on our health or the health of future generations.

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

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

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

2018-03-01

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

Estrogenic chemicals often leach from BPA-free plastic products that are replacements for BPA-containing polycarbonate products

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Xenobiotic chemicals with estrogenic activity (EA), such as bisphenol A (BPA), have been reported to have potential adverse health effects in mammals, including humans, especially in fetal and infant stages. Concerns about safety have caused many manufacturers to use alternatives to polycarbonate (PC) resins to make hard and clear, reusable, plastic products that do not leach BPA. However, no study has focused on whether such BPA-free PC-replacement products, chosen for their perceived higher safety, especially for babies, also release other chemicals that have EA. Methods We used two, well-established, mammalian cell-based, assays (MCF-7 and BG1Luc) to assess the EA of chemicals that leached into over 1000 saline or ethanol extracts of 50 unstressed or stressed (autoclaving, microwaving, and UV radiation) BPA-free PC-replacement products. An EA antagonist, ICI 182,780, was used to confirm that agonist activity in leachates was due to chemicals that activated the mammalian estrogen receptor. Results Many unstressed and stressed, PC-replacement-products made from acrylic, polystyrene, polyethersulfone, and Tritan™ resins leached chemicals with EA, including products made for use by babies. Exposure to various forms of UV radiation often increased the leaching of chemicals with EA. In contrast, some BPA-free PC-replacement products made from glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate or cyclic olefin polymer or co-polymer resins did not release chemicals with detectable EA under any conditions tested. Conclusions This hazard assessment survey showed that many BPA-free PC- replacement products still leached chemicals having significant levels of EA, as did BPA-containing PC counterparts they were meant to replace. That is, BPA-free did not mean EA-free. However, this study also showed that some PC-replacement products did not leach chemicals having significant levels of EA. That is, EA-free PC-replacement products could be made in commercial quantities at prices that compete with PC-replacement products that were not BPA-free. Since plastic products often have advantages (price, weight, shatter-resistance, etc.) compared to other materials such as steel or glass, it is not necessary to forgo those advantages to avoid release into foodstuffs or the environment of chemicals having EA that may have potential adverse effects on our health or the health of future generations. PMID:24886603

The unrestricted local properties: application in nanoelectronics and for predicting radicals reactivity.

PubMed

Dral, Pavlo O

2014-03-01

The local electron affinity (EA(L)) and the local ionization energy (IE(L)) are successfully used for predicting properties of closed-shell species for drug design and for nanoelectronics. Here the respective unrestricted Hartree-Fock variants of EA(L) and IE(L), i.e., the unrestricted local electron affinity (UHF-EA(L)) and ionization energy (UHF-IE(L)), have been shown to be useful for predicting properties of open-shell species. UHF-EA(L) and UHF-IE(L) have been applied for explaining unique electronic properties of an exemplary nanomaterial carbon peapod. It is also demonstrated that UHF-EA(L) is useful for predicting and better understanding reactivity of radicals related to alkanes activation.

Unraveling Exercise Addiction: The Role of Narcissism and Self-Esteem

PubMed Central

Cicciarelli, Claudio; Romeo, Vincenzo Maria; Pandolfo, Gianluca

2014-01-01

The aim of this study was to assess the risk of exercise addiction (EA) in fitness clubs and to identify possible factors in the development of the disorder. The Exercise Addiction Inventory (EAI), the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI), and the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory (SEI) were administered to a sample of 150 consecutive gym attenders recruited in fitness centers. Based on EAI total score, high EA risk group (HEA n = 51) and a low EA risk group (LEA n = 69) were identified. HEA reported significantly higher total score (mean = 20.2 versus 14.6) on the NPI scale and lower total score (mean = 32.2 versus 36.4) on the SEI scale than LEA. A stepwise regression analysis indicated that only narcissism and self-esteem total scores (F = 5.66; df = 2; P = 0.006) were good predictors of days per week exercise. The present study confirms the direct and combined role of both labile self-esteem and high narcissism in the development of exercise addiction as predictive factors towards the risk of addiction. Multidisciplinary trained health care providers (physiatrists, psychologists, and psychiatrists) should carefully identify potential overexercise conditions in order to prevent the potential risk of exercise addiction. PMID:25405056

[Effect of Electroacupuncture on Cerebro-cortex Caspase-3 Expression and Blood Lipid Levels in Hyperlipemia Rats with Cerebral Ischemia].

PubMed

Wang, Zhuo-Yu; Ma, Jia-Jia; Guan, Han-Yu; Tian, Yao; Ren, Xiu-Jun; Ma, Hui-Fang

2017-04-25

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) stimulation of "Fenglong" (ST 40), "Sanyinjiao" (SP 6) plus manual acupuncture (MA) stimulation of "Shuigou" (GV 26) and "Baihui" (GV 20) on Caspase-3 protein expression in the cerebral cortex of rats with hyperlipemia and cerebral ischemia(HL-CI),so as to reveal its mechanisms underlying improvement of HL-CI. Forty-five rats were randomly divided into normal control,sham operation,model,EA group I(EA+MA was given for 14 days, i.e., 7 days before CI, and 7 days more after HL-CI)and EA group Ⅱ (EA+MA was given for only 7 days after HL-CI),with 9 rats being in each group. The HL-CI model was established by feeding the animals with high fat forage for 6 weeks and then making an occlusion of the unilateral middle cerebral artery by regional application of quantitative paper adsorbing 50% FeCl 3 solution (10 μL). Rats of the sham operation group were treated with the same procedures only without application of FeCl 3 solution. For rats of the EA group I,EA (1-3 mA, 2 Hz/100 Hz) was applied to bilateral acupoints SP 6 and ST 40 (for 20 min),and MA stimulation applied to GV 26 and GV 20. EA was conducted once daily for 7 days after 6 weeks' high fat fo-rage feeding, and EA+MA intervention was conducted once daily for 7 days after CI modeling. For rats in the EA group Ⅱ, EA+MA was applied to the same 4 acupoints once a day for 7 days only after CI modeling. The neurological impairment was assessed by Zea Longa's scoring. The blood sample was taken from the abdominal aorta for measuring the contents of serum cholesterol (CHO),triglyceride (TG) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Pathological changes of the cerebral cortex were observed after H.E. staining, and the expression of cerebro-cortex Caspase-3 was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Following modeling,the neurological score,CHO, TG and LDL-C contents, and the number of Caspase-3 positive cells as well as Caspase-3 immunoactivity level were significantly increased in the model group( P <0.05), while serum HDL-C level was obviously decreased( P <0.05). After the treatment,the increased neurological score, CHO, TG and LDL-C contents, and the number of Caspase-3 positive cells and Caspase-3 immunoactivity level were considerably decreased in the EA group I and Ⅱ( P <0.05)while the decreased HDL-C level was notably increased relevant to the model group( P <0.05). The effects of the EA group I were notably superior to those of EA group Ⅱ in down-regulating the neurological score,CHO, TG and LDL-C levels and the expression of Caspase-3 protein( P <0.05). No significant differences were found between the normal control and sham operation groups in the neurological scores 20 min and 7 days after modeling and Caspase-3 expression levels ( P >0.05). H.E. staining showed a reduction of the apoptotic cells and inflammatory cells in both EA group I and Ⅱ. Both EA and EA+MA interventions can improve neurological function in HL-CI rats,which may be related to their effects in adjusting the levels of serum lipids and down-regulating the expression of cell apoptosis-related Caspase-3 protein in the ischemic cortex. Moreover, the cerebral ischemia injury may be lightened by EA-lowering hyperlipemia first.

Sixth Fleet Combat Stores Ship Resupply Model

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-03-01

Jumbo Block BR 0.25 288 0.98 0021 Fruit Chewies PG 0.25 360 1.08 0022 Nestles Crunch BR 0.25 360 0.78 0023 Kit Kat BR 0.25 432 1.55 0131 Cashews EA...2.33 12 0.27 0132 Mixed Peanuts EA 1.28 12 0.27 0133 Peanuts EA 0.78 12 0.27 0134 Spanish Nuts EA 0.78 12 0.36 0151 Baked Beans CN 0.28 24 0.40 0152

Molecular and physiological properties of bacteriophages from North America and Germany affecting the fire blight pathogen Erwinia amylovora

PubMed Central

Müller, Ina; Lurz, Rudi; Kube, Michael; Quedenau, Claudia; Jelkmann, Wilhelm; Geider, Klaus

2011-01-01

Summary For possible control of fire blight affecting apple and pear trees, we characterized Erwinia amylovora phages from North America and Germany. The genome size determined by electron microscopy (EM) was confirmed by sequence data and major coat proteins were identified from gel bands by mass spectroscopy. By their morphology from EM data, φEa1h and φEa100 were assigned to the Podoviridae and φEa104 and φEa116 to the Myoviridae. Host ranges were essentially confined to E. amylovora, strains of the species Erwinia pyrifoliae, E. billingiae and even Pantoea stewartii were partially sensitive. The phages φEa1h and φEa100 were dependent on the amylovoran capsule of E. amylovora, φEa104 and φEa116 were not. The Myoviridae efficiently lysed their hosts and protected apple flowers significantly better than the Podoviridae against E. amylovora and should be preferred in biocontrol experiments. We have also isolated and partially characterized E. amylovora phages from apple orchards in Germany. They belong to the Podoviridae or Myoviridae with a host range similar to the phages isolated in North America. In EM measurements, the genome sizes of the Podoviridae were smaller than the genomes of the Myoviridae from North America and from Germany, which differed from each other in corresponding nucleotide sequences. PMID:21791029

Relationships among Stress, Experiential Avoidance and Depression in Psychiatric Patients.

PubMed

Rueda, Beatriz; Valls, Esperanza

2016-05-23

This study investigated the specific association of stressful life events (SLE) and experiential avoidance (EA) with depression in patients with mental disorders. It also analyzed the possible mediating role of depression in the relation of EA to well-being and life satisfaction. A total of 147 patients (mean age = 40.16 years) diagnosed with anxiety, mood or adjustment disorder were recruited from a mental health centre. They completed measures of SLE, EA, depression, well-being and life satisfaction. Regression analyses showed that SLE and EA were positively related to depression (R 2 = .45), although the contribution made by EA was higher (β = .61, p < .001) than the one made by SLE (β = .19, p < .01). Bootstrap mediation analyses revealed that there was an indirect effect from EA to physical well-being (B = -4.52, SE = .70, p < .001, 95% CI [-6.03, -3.20]) and satisfaction (B = -.14, SE = .02, p < .001, 95%, CI [-.19 -.09]) through depression. This indirect effect was less consistently supported with respect to emotional well-being (B = -3.33, SE = .48, p < .001, 95%, CI [-4.30, -2.41]). These findings give support to the hypothesis that EA could be an important factor contributing to depression in patients with mental disorders. The results also provide evidence that depression seems to play an important mediational role when considering the negative impact that EA exerts on patients´ well-being and satisfaction.

Quantitative and qualitative transcriptome analysis of four industrial strains of Claviceps purpurea with respect to ergot alkaloid production.

PubMed

Majeská Čudejková, Mária; Vojta, Petr; Valík, Josef; Galuszka, Petr

2016-09-25

The fungus Claviceps purpurea is a biotrophic phytopathogen widely used in the pharmaceutical industry for its ability to produce ergot alkaloids (EAs). The fungus attacks unfertilized ovaries of grasses and forms sclerotia, which represent the only type of tissue where the synthesis of EAs occurs. The biosynthetic pathway of EAs has been extensively studied; however, little is known concerning its regulation. Here, we present the quantitative transcriptome analysis of the sclerotial and mycelial tissues providing a comprehensive view of transcriptional differences between the tissues that produce EAs and those that do not produce EAs and the pathogenic and non-pathogenic lifestyle. The results indicate metabolic changes coupled with sclerotial differentiation, which are likely needed as initiation factors for EA biosynthesis. One of the promising factors seems to be oxidative stress. Here, we focus on the identification of putative transcription factors and regulators involved in sclerotial differentiation, which might be involved in EA biosynthesis. To shed more light on the regulation of EA composition, whole transcriptome analysis of four industrial strains differing in their alkaloid spectra was performed. The results support the hypothesis proposing the composition of the amino acid pool in sclerotia to be an important factor regulating the final structure of the ergopeptines produced by Claviceps purpurea. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Ad-IRF-1 Induces Apoptosis in Esophageal Adenocarcinoma

PubMed Central

Stang, Michael T; Armstrong, Michaele J; Gooding, William E; Kuan, Shih-Fan; Yim, John H; Hughes, Steven J

2006-01-01

Abstract The nuclear transcription factor interferon regulatory factor-1 (IRF-1) is a putative tumor suppressor, but the expression and function of IRF-1 in esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA) remain unknown. We hypothesized that IRF-1 expression was reduced or lost in EA and that restoration of IRF-1 would result in the apoptosis of EA cells in vitro and the inhibition of tumor growth in vivo. Three EA cell lines were used to examine IRF-1 expression, IFN-γ responsiveness, and the effects of IRF-1 overexpression using a recombinant adenoviral vector (Ad-IRF-1). All three EA cell lines produced IRF-1 protein following IFN-γ stimulation, although IFN-γ did not induce cell death. In contrast, Ad-IRF-1 infection resulted in high levels of IRF-1 protein and triggered apoptosis in all three EA cell lines. Potential mechanisms for the differential response to IFN-γ versus Ad-IRF-1—such as modulation of c-Met or extracellular regulated kinase signaling, or altered expression of IRF-2, Fas, or survivin—were investigated, but none of these mechanisms can account for this observation. In vivo administration of IRF-1 in a murine model of EA modestly inhibited tumor growth, but did not lead to tumor regression. Strategies aimed at increasing or restoring IRF-1 expression may have therapeutic benefits in EA. PMID:16533423

[A prospective cohort study of the risk factors of emergence agitation in pediatric after general anesthesia].

PubMed

Fan, Hao; Tao, Fan; Wan, Hai-fang; Luo, Hong

2012-05-08

To evaluate risk factors associated with emergence agitation (EA) in pediatrics after general anesthesia. A prospective cohort study was conducted in 268 pediatric patients aged 2-9 years, who received general anesthesia for various operative procedures in our hospital between January 2008 and October 2011. The incidence of EA was assessed. Difficult parental-separation behavior, pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions, and adverse events were also recorded. Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to determine the factors associated with EA. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered significant. One hundred and sixteen children (43.3%) had EA, with an average duration of 9.1 ± 6.6 minutes. EA associated with adverse events occurred in 35 agitated children (30.2%). From univariate analysis, factors associated with EA were difficult parental-separation behavior, preschool age (2 - 5 years), and general anesthesia with sevoflurane. However, difficult parental-separation behavior, and preschool age were the only factors significantly associated with EA in the multiple Logistic regression analysis with OR = 3.091 (95%CI: 1.688, 5.465, P < 0.01) and OR = 1.965 (95%CI: 1.112, 3.318, P = 0.024), respectively. The present study indicated that the incidence of EA was high in PACU. Preschool children and difficult parental-separation behavior were the predictive factors of emergence agitation.

The molecular mechanism of the termination of insect diapause, part 1: A timer protein, TIME-EA4, in the diapause eggs of the silkworm Bombyx mori is a metallo-glycoprotein.

PubMed

Isobe, Minoru; Kai, Hidenori; Kurahashi, Takuya; Suwan, Sathorn; Pitchayawasin-Thapphasaraphong, Suthasinee; Franz, Thomas; Tani, Naoki; Higashi, Kenichiro; Nishida, Hideo

2006-10-01

TIME-EA4 is an ATPase that measures time intervals, functioning as a diapause duration clock in diapause eggs of the silkworm, Bombyx mori. Characterization of the primary and higher structures of the TIME-EA4 would be desirable to clarify the mechanism by which the protein measures the time intervals. In our current studies, the whole sequence of TIME-EA4 has been established as that of a metallo-glycoprotein by combinational means involving peptide sequence analysis, nano-HPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS and MS/MS, and cDNA dictation. The amino acid sequence of TIME-EA4 showed 46-55 % homology with the reported proteins of the Cu,Zn-SOD (superoxide dismutase) family; in particular, the SOD active site (core domain) includes metal-binding amino acid ligands and a disulfide bond, and these structures are completely identical in Bombyx SOD, bovine SOD, and TIME-EA4 proteins. We found, however, that TIME-EA4 contains one more copper ion than other SODs, as was proven under neutral nondenaturing conditions. ESI mass spectrometry revealed that the timer function was not in the SOD core domain. In addition, TIME-EA4 has an attached sugar chain, which is indispensable to its functioning as a timer protein.

Increased cardiogenesis in P19-GFP teratocarcinoma cells expressing the propeptide IGF-1Ea

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

Poudel, Bhawana; Bilbao, Daniel; Sarathchandra, Padmini

2011-12-16

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer In this study, we explored the function of IGF-1Ea propeptide in inducing cardiogenesis of stem cells. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer IGF-1Ea promoted cardiac mesodermal induction in uncommitted cells. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Under differentiation condition, IGF-1Ea increased expression of cardiac differentiation markers. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Furthermore, it promoted formation of finely organized sarcomeric structure. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer IGF-1Ea propeptide may be a good candidate to improve production of cardiomyocytes from pluripotent cells. -- Abstract: The mechanism implicated in differentiation of endogenous cardiac stem cells into cardiomyocytes to regenerate the heart tissue upon an insult remains elusive, limiting the therapeutical goals to exogenous cell injection and/or gene therapy. Wemore » have shown previously that cardiac specific overexpression of the insulin-like growth factor 1 propeptide IGF-1Ea induces beneficial myocardial repair after infarct. Although the mechanism is still under investigation, the possibility that this propeptide may be involved in promoting stem cell differentiation into the cardiac lineage has yet to be explored. To investigate whether IGF-1Ea promote cardiogenesis, we initially modified P19 embryonal carcinoma cells to express IGF-1Ea. Taking advantage of their cardiomyogenic nature, we analyzed whether overexpression of this propeptide affected cardiac differentiation program. The data herein presented showed for the first time that constitutively overexpressed IGF-1Ea increased cardiogenic differentiation program in both undifferentiated and DMSO-differentiated cells. In details, IGF-1Ea overexpression promoted localization of alpha-actinin in finely organized sarcomeric structure compared to control cells and upregulated the cardiac mesodermal marker NKX-2.5 and the ventricular structural protein MLC2v. Furthermore, activated IGF-1 signaling promoted cardiac mesodermal induction in undifferentiated cells independently of cell proliferation. This analysis suggests that IGF-1Ea may be a good candidate to improve both in vitro production of cardiomyocytes from pluripotent stem cells and in vivo activation of the differentiation program of cardiac progenitor cells.« less

Early antibiotic treatment for BAL-confirmed ventilator-associated pneumonia: a role for routine endotracheal aspirate cultures.

PubMed

Michel, Fabrice; Franceschini, Bruno; Berger, Pierre; Arnal, Jean-Michel; Gainnier, Marc; Sainty, Jean-Marie; Papazian, Laurent

2005-02-01

To test whether routine quantitative cultures of endotracheal aspirates obtained before the onset of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) could help to predict the causative microorganisms and to select early appropriate antimicrobial therapy before obtaining BAL culture results. Prospective observational study. French medical ICU. A total of 299 patients received mechanical ventilation for at least 48 h. Endotracheal aspiration (EA) was performed twice weekly in all mechanically ventilated patients. A diagnosis of VAP was made by BAL culture. Only the EA performed just before the suspicion of VAP (EA-pre) were evaluated. This strategy (ie, the EA-pre-based strategy) was compared with an antibiotic therapy that would have been prescribed if the recommendations of both the American Thoracic Society (ATS) and Trouillet et al (Am J Respir Crit Care Med 1998; 157:531-539) had been applied. VAP was diagnosed (by BAL culture) in 41 of the 75 patients in whom BAL was performed. Among the 41 BAL specimens that were positive for VAP, EA-pre had identified the same microorganisms (with the same antibiotic resistance patterns) in 34 cases (83%). In one case, EA-pre was not available at the time BAL was performed (a case of early-onset VAP), but the empiric antibiotic therapy was adequate. While EA-pre did not give the same results as the BAL culture, the antibiotic therapy based on the results of the EA-pre was adequate in four other cases. Finally, antibiotic therapy was delayed in only two cases. Antibiotic treatment was therefore adequate in 38 of the 40 assessable cases (95%). If the Trouillet-based strategy had been used, the antibiotic treatment would have been adequate in 34 of the 41 cases (83%; p = 0.15 [vs EA-pre strategy]). Based on the ATS classification, the antibiotic treatment would have been adequately prescribed in only 28 of the 41 cases (68%; p = 0.005 [vs EA-pre strategy]). Routine EA performed twice a week makes it possible to prescribe adequate antibiotic therapy (while waiting for BAL culture results) in 95% of the patients in whom a VAP is ultimately diagnosed by BAL culture.

Downregulation of the spinal NMDA receptor NR2B subunit during electro-acupuncture relief of chronic visceral hyperalgesia.

PubMed

Liu, Hongping; Zhang, Yuhua; Qi, Debo; Li, Weimin

2017-01-01

The involvement of spinal NR2B, a N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subunit, in the therapeutic effect of electro-acupuncture (EA) on chronic visceral hyperalgesia was investigated. Chronic visceral hyperalgesia was induced using an irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) model in rats. Graded colorectal distention (CRD) stimuli at strengths of 20, 40, 60 and 80 mmHg were applied, and behavioral tests were performed to measure the abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR) in response to the CRD stimuli and assess the severity of the visceral hyperalgesia. Rats were randomly divided into four groups: normal intact (control) group, IBS model (model) group, EA-treated IBS rats (EA) group and sham EA-treated IBS rats (sham EA) group. For the EA treatment, electric stimuli were applied through needles inserted into two acupoints [Zu-san-li (ST-36) and Shang-ju-xu (ST-37)] in both hind limbs, while the sham EA treatment consisted of only the insertion of needles into these same acupoints without an application of electric stimuli. Our results showed that AWR scores of the model group responding to CRD stimuli of 20, 40, 60 and 80 mmHg were significantly increased. These increased scores subsequently decreased following EA treatment (P < 0.05) compared with those for the other groups. The expression of NR2B in the superficial laminae (SDH, laminae I and II), nucleus proprius (NP, laminae III and IV), neck of the dorsal horn (NECK, laminae V and VI) and central canal region (lamina X) at thoracolumbar (T13-L2) and lumbosacral (L6-S2) segmental level significantly increased in the model group versus the control group (P < 0.05) and significantly decreased after EA treatment (P < 0.05). There were no significant changes in neither AWR scores nor expression of the NR2B subunit in these spinal regions after the sham EA treatment. These results confirm that EA can relieve chronic visceral hyperalgesia in IBS model rats and suggest that such an effect is possibly mediated through the downregulation of the NR2B subunits of NMDA at the spinal level.

Designing Assessment Strategies for Organization Development

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nielsen, Warren R.; Kimberly, John R.

1976-01-01

Argues that systematic empirical assessment of organizational development (OD) interventions is important and can have benefits both for subject organizations and organizational researchers. Discusses suggested criteria for effective assessment of OD interventions. (For availability see EA 507 198.) (JG)

Anorectal three-dimensional endosonography and anal manometry in assessing anterior rectocele in women: a new pathogenesis concept and the basic surgical principle.

PubMed

Regadas, F S P; Murad-Regadas, S M; Wexner, S D; Rodrigues, L V; Souza, M H L P; Silva, F R; Lima, D M R; Regadas Filho, F S P

2007-01-01

The anatomy of the anal canal, the anorectal junction and the lower rectum was studied with 3-D ultrasound. Seventeen women with normal bowel transit, without rectocele (group 1) and 17 female patients with a large anterior rectocele (group 2) were examined with a B&K Medical Rawk. Mean age was 44.5 and 51.6 years respectively. In group 1, one (5.8%) patient was nuliparous, five (29.4%) had a caesarian section, 11 (64.7%) had a vaginal delivery while in group 2, two (11.7%) patients were nuliparous, four (23.5%) had a caesarian section and 11 (64.7%) had a vaginal delivery. Images were reconstructed in midline longitudinal (ML) and transverse (T) planes. The external (EAS) and internal (IAS) anal sphincters were measured in both projections. In the ML plane, the EAS length was longer in group 1 (1.94 cm vs 1.61 cm, P < 0.05), the gap length was shorter (1.54 cm vs 1.0 cm P < 0.01) and the wall thickness was shorter in group 2 (0.40 cm vs 0.50 cm P < 0.01). The IAS (0.18 cm vs 0.23 cm P < 0.01) and EAS thickness (0.68 cm vs 0.77 cm, P < 0.05) (left lateral of the posterior quadrant) was greater in group 2. In group 1, the anterior upper anal canal wall in normal females was an extension of the rectal wall and the circular muscle was thicker in the mid-anal canal to form the IAS. In group 2, however, the wall layers were not identified and the IAS was found to be more distal. The differences were not statistically significant in the anal canal resting and squeeze pressures in the two groups. Obstetric trauma does not seem to play any role in rectocele pathogenesis because the anal sphincter muscles are anatomically and functionally normal and rectocele is also present in nuliparous and in women with caesarian sections. It seems that it is associated with the absence of EAS and thinner IAS in the anterior upper anal canal. Herniation starts at the upper anal canal extending to the lower rectum in high or large rectoceles and maybe produced by rectal intussusception because of excessive and prolonged straining during defecation. In fact, the denomination 'rectocele' should be changed to 'anorectocele'.

Generalization and dilution of association results from European GWAS in populations of non-European ancestry: the PAGE study.

PubMed

Carlson, Christopher S; Matise, Tara C; North, Kari E; Haiman, Christopher A; Fesinmeyer, Megan D; Buyske, Steven; Schumacher, Fredrick R; Peters, Ulrike; Franceschini, Nora; Ritchie, Marylyn D; Duggan, David J; Spencer, Kylee L; Dumitrescu, Logan; Eaton, Charles B; Thomas, Fridtjof; Young, Alicia; Carty, Cara; Heiss, Gerardo; Le Marchand, Loic; Crawford, Dana C; Hindorff, Lucia A; Kooperberg, Charles L

2013-09-01

The vast majority of genome-wide association study (GWAS) findings reported to date are from populations with European Ancestry (EA), and it is not yet clear how broadly the genetic associations described will generalize to populations of diverse ancestry. The Population Architecture Using Genomics and Epidemiology (PAGE) study is a consortium of multi-ancestry, population-based studies formed with the objective of refining our understanding of the genetic architecture of common traits emerging from GWAS. In the present analysis of five common diseases and traits, including body mass index, type 2 diabetes, and lipid levels, we compare direction and magnitude of effects for GWAS-identified variants in multiple non-EA populations against EA findings. We demonstrate that, in all populations analyzed, a significant majority of GWAS-identified variants have allelic associations in the same direction as in EA, with none showing a statistically significant effect in the opposite direction, after adjustment for multiple testing. However, 25% of tagSNPs identified in EA GWAS have significantly different effect sizes in at least one non-EA population, and these differential effects were most frequent in African Americans where all differential effects were diluted toward the null. We demonstrate that differential LD between tagSNPs and functional variants within populations contributes significantly to dilute effect sizes in this population. Although most variants identified from GWAS in EA populations generalize to all non-EA populations assessed, genetic models derived from GWAS findings in EA may generate spurious results in non-EA populations due to differential effect sizes. Regardless of the origin of the differential effects, caution should be exercised in applying any genetic risk prediction model based on tagSNPs outside of the ancestry group in which it was derived. Models based directly on functional variation may generalize more robustly, but the identification of functional variants remains challenging.

Electroacupuncture for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: study protocol for a pilot multicentre randomized, patient-assessor-blinded, controlled trial

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is the main dose-limiting side effect of neurotoxic chemotherapeutic agents. CIPN can lead not only to loss of physical function, difficulties in activities of daily living (ADLs), and decreased quality of life, but also to dose reduction, delay or even cessation of treatment. Currently, there are few proven effective treatments for CIPN. This randomized controlled clinical trial is designed to evaluate the effects and safety of electroacupuncture (EA) for patients with CIPN. Methods/design This is a multicenter, two-armed, parallel-design, patient-assessor-blinded, randomized, sham-controlled clinical trial. Forty eligible patients with CIPN will be randomized in a ratio of 1:1 to the EA or sham EA arms. During the treatment phase, patients will undergo eight sessions of verum EA or sham EA twice weekly for four weeks, and then will be followed-up for eight weeks. Electrical stimulation in the EA group will consist of a mixed frequency of 2/120 Hz and 80% of bearable intensity. Sham EA will be applied to non-acupoints, with shallow needle insertion and no current. All outcomes and analyses of results will be assessed by researchers blinded to treatment allocation. The effects of EA on CIPN will be evaluated according to both subjective and objective outcome measures. The primary outcome measure will be the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) quality of life questionnaire to assess CIPN (QLQ-CIPN20). The secondary outcome measures will be the results on the numerical rating scale, the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test, the nerve conduction study, and the EORTC QLQ-C30, as well as the patient’s global impression of change and adverse events. Safety will be assessed at each visit. Discussion The results of this on-going study will provide clinical evidence for the effects and safety of EA for CIPN compared with sham EA. Trial registration Clinical Research Information Service: KCT0000506 PMID:23945074

Generalization and Dilution of Association Results from European GWAS in Populations of Non-European Ancestry: The PAGE Study

PubMed Central

Carlson, Christopher S.; Matise, Tara C.; North, Kari E.; Haiman, Christopher A.; Fesinmeyer, Megan D.; Buyske, Steven; Schumacher, Fredrick R.; Peters, Ulrike; Franceschini, Nora; Ritchie, Marylyn D.; Duggan, David J.; Spencer, Kylee L.; Dumitrescu, Logan; Eaton, Charles B.; Thomas, Fridtjof; Young, Alicia; Carty, Cara; Heiss, Gerardo; Le Marchand, Loic; Crawford, Dana C.; Hindorff, Lucia A.; Kooperberg, Charles L.

2013-01-01

The vast majority of genome-wide association study (GWAS) findings reported to date are from populations with European Ancestry (EA), and it is not yet clear how broadly the genetic associations described will generalize to populations of diverse ancestry. The Population Architecture Using Genomics and Epidemiology (PAGE) study is a consortium of multi-ancestry, population-based studies formed with the objective of refining our understanding of the genetic architecture of common traits emerging from GWAS. In the present analysis of five common diseases and traits, including body mass index, type 2 diabetes, and lipid levels, we compare direction and magnitude of effects for GWAS-identified variants in multiple non-EA populations against EA findings. We demonstrate that, in all populations analyzed, a significant majority of GWAS-identified variants have allelic associations in the same direction as in EA, with none showing a statistically significant effect in the opposite direction, after adjustment for multiple testing. However, 25% of tagSNPs identified in EA GWAS have significantly different effect sizes in at least one non-EA population, and these differential effects were most frequent in African Americans where all differential effects were diluted toward the null. We demonstrate that differential LD between tagSNPs and functional variants within populations contributes significantly to dilute effect sizes in this population. Although most variants identified from GWAS in EA populations generalize to all non-EA populations assessed, genetic models derived from GWAS findings in EA may generate spurious results in non-EA populations due to differential effect sizes. Regardless of the origin of the differential effects, caution should be exercised in applying any genetic risk prediction model based on tagSNPs outside of the ancestry group in which it was derived. Models based directly on functional variation may generalize more robustly, but the identification of functional variants remains challenging. PMID:24068893

Predicting Intestinal Adaptation in Pediatric Intestinal Failure: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

PubMed

Belza, Christina; Fitzgerald, Kevin; de Silva, Nicole; Avitzur, Yaron; Steinberg, Karen; Courtney-Martin, Glenda; Wales, Paul W

2017-12-04

The primary goal in intestinal failure (IF) is adaptation and enteral autonomy (EA). Our goals were to determine the proportion of patients treated for IF by an established intestinal rehabilitation program who achieved EA and to assess the predictors of EA. There have been considerable advancements in the management of IF over the last 15 years, children with short bowel syndrome with a reduction in mortality. Several studies have discussed variables that may influence the ability to attain EA; however, majority were written when mortality rates were considerably higher compared with the current contemporary experience. A retrospective analysis of infants <12 months with short bowel syndrome referred between 2006 and 2013 (n = 120). Data was collected on IF-related factors and nutritional intake. The cohort was stratified based on achievement of EA. Statistical testing completed using t test, Chi Square, and Cox Proportional Hazards regression (P < 0.05). EA was achieved in 84 (70.0%) patients. Patients who remained parenteral nutrition dependent were more likely to have volvulus (1.2 vs 22.2%, P < 0.001), shorter percent residual small bowel (29.4 vs 68.6%; P < 0.0001) and colon length (64.6 vs 86.0%; P = 0.001), and no ileocecal valve (61.1 vs 29.8%; P = 0.05). Mortality was also decreased in those who achieved EA (4 vs 22%; P = 0.004). Percent residual small bowel (HR = 1.03; 95% CI 1.02-1.03) and colon (HR = 1.01; 95% CI 1.00-1.02) length were positively associated with EA, while number of septic episodes was negatively associated (HR = 0.95; 95% CI 0.91-0.99). Seventy percent of infants with IF achieved EA. Residual small and large bowel length were the most important predictors of EA and septic events had a negative impact.

Ethacrynic acid improves the antitumor effects of irreversible epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors in breast cancer

PubMed Central

Hu, YunLong; Chen, TingTing; Peng, BoYa; Gao, NingNing; Jin, ZhenChao; Jia, TieLiu; Zhang, Na; Wang, ZhuLin; Jin, GuangYi

2016-01-01

Prolonged treatment of breast cancer with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) often results in acquired resistance and a narrow therapeutic index. One strategy to improve the therapeutic effects of EGFR TKIs is to combine them with drugs used for other clinical indications. Ethacrynic acid (EA) is an FDA approved drug that may have antitumor effects and may enhance the cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic agents by binding to glutathione and inhibiting WNT signaling. While the α,β-unsaturated-keto structure of EA is similar to that of irreversible TKIs, the mechanism of action of EA when combined with irreversible EGFR TKIs in breast cancer remains unknown. We therefore investigated the combination of irreversible EGFR TKIs and EA. We found that irreversible EGFR TKIs and EA synergistically inhibit breast cancer both in vitro and in vivo. The combination of EGFR TKIs and EA induces necrosis and cell cycle arrest and represses WNT/β-catenin signaling as well as MAPK-ERK1/2 signaling. We conclude that EA synergistically enhances the antitumor effects of irreversible EGFR TKIs in breast cancer. PMID:27487128

Oxidative cleavage of erucic acid for the synthesis of brassylic acid

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

Mohammed J. Nasrullah; Pooja Thapliyal; Erica N. Pfarr

2010-10-29

The main focus of this work is to synthesize Brassylic Acid (BA) using oxidative cleavage of Erucic Acid (EA). Crambe (Crambe abyssinica) is an industrial oilseed grown in North Dakota. Crambe has potential as an industrial fatty acid feedstock as a source of Erucic acid (EA). It has approximately 50-60 % of EA, a C{sub 22} monounsaturated fatty acid. Oxidative cleavage of unsaturated fatty acids derived from oilseeds produces long chain (9, 11, and 13 carbon atoms) dibasic and monobasic acids. These acids are known commercial feedstocks for the preparation of nylons, polyesters, waxes, surfactants, and perfumes. Other sources ofmore » EA are Rapeseed seed oil which 50-60 % of EA. Rapeseed is grown outside USA. The oxidative cleavage of EA was done using a high throughput parallel pressure reactor system. Kinetics of the reaction shows that BA yields reach a saturation at 12 hours. H{sub 2}WO{sub 4} was found to be the best catalyst for the oxidative cleavage of EA. High yields of BA were obtained at 80 C with bubbling of O{sub 2} or 10 bar of O{sub 2} for 12 hours.« less

Bergamot essential oil differentially modulates intracellular Ca2+ levels in vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells: a new finding seen with fura-2.

PubMed

You, Ji H; Kang, Purum; Min, Sun Seek; Seol, Geun Hee

2013-04-01

In this study, we compared the effect of the essential oil of Citrus bergamia Risso [bergamot, bergamot essential oil (BEO)] on the intracellular Ca levels in vascular endothelial (EA) and mouse vascular smooth muscle (MOVAS) cells, using the fura-2 fluorescence technique. BEO caused an initial transient increase in intracellular Ca concentration ([Ca]i) in EA cells, followed by a decrease, whereas it induced a sustained increase in [Ca]i in MOVAS cells. Linalyl acetate (LA) as a major component of BEO-induced [Ca]i mobilization was similar to BEO in EA cells. The increase of [Ca]i by LA was higher in EA cells than in MOVAS cells. [Ca]i rise induced by extracellular Ca application was significantly blocked by BEO or LA in EA cells but not in MOVAS cells, suggesting that BEO and LA block Ca influx in EA cells. The present results suggest that BEO and LA differentially modulate intracellular Ca levels in vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells. In addition, blockade of Ca influx by BEO and LA in EA cells may explain the protective effects of BEO on endothelial dysfunction associated with cardiovascular disease.

Does esophageal atresia influence the mother-infant interaction?

PubMed

Faugli, Anne; Emblem, Ragnhild; Veenstra, Marijke; Bjørnland, Kristin; Diseth, Trond H

2008-10-01

Chronic illness in infancy may influence parent-infant interaction. We assessed quality of mother-infant interaction in children with esophageal atresia (EA) and searched for predictors for impaired interaction. The study group comprised 37 one-year-old infants with EA born in 1999 to 2002 and their mothers. A comparison group comprised 10 infants with urologic problems without feeding difficulties and their mothers. Parent Child Early Relational Assessment was used to assess mother-child interaction in feeding and play situation. General Health Questionnaire and State Trait Anxiety Inventory were used to assess maternal psychological distress and anxiety. Many aspects of mother-EA infant interaction showed strength. However, mothers of EA children were compared to control-mothers significantly influenced in their ability to interact and the EA-mothers' "positive affective involvement, sensitivity, and responsiveness" during feeding was in range of concern. Small but significant effect of the mother's feeling of incompetence on their interaction was found. Mothers' attitude during feeding was negatively influenced in interaction between mother and infant with EA. The results suggest possibility for improvement in mother infant interaction by enhancing mothers' welfare when caring for infants with EA in medical services.

Decisions to register for the National Marrow Donor Program: rational vs emotional appeals.

PubMed

Studts, J L; Ruberg, J L; McGuffin, S A; Roetzer, L M

2010-03-01

Little research has examined how the content of health communications regarding the need for BM and stem cell donation affects the intentions and attitudes of potential National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) donors. This study used an experimental design to test the hypothesis that an emotional appeal (EA) to potential donors would lead to higher rates of NMDP registration than a rational appeal (RA). Participants were randomly assigned to receive either a RA or an EA and then asked if they would (1) register with the NMDP and (2) talk with family members about NMDP registration. A total of 85% of individuals receiving the EA agreed to register for the NMDP, whereas only 49% of the participants receiving the RA agreed to register. The EA (72%) and RA (54%) groups did not differ significantly in their reported willingness to talk with family members about NMDP registration. However, multivariate logistic regression analyses indicated that the EA group endorsed significantly greater willingness to engage in both outcomes. Results suggest that an EA was more effective in motivating participants, but other sociodemographic factors were also associated with decisions about NMDP registration. EA may provide a useful and cost-effective method for increasing NMDP registration.

Antinociceptive activities of 70% methanol extract of evodiae fructus (fruit of Evodia rutaecarpa var. bodinieri) and its alkaloidal components.

PubMed

Matsuda, H; Wu, J X; Tanaka, T; Iinuma, M; Kubo, M

1997-03-01

The effects of 70% methanol extract (EA-ext) from Evodiae Fructus (EA) consisting of dried fruits of Evodia rutaecarpa var. bodinieri (Rutaceae) on nociceptive responses were investigated. Oral administration of 50 or 200 mg/kg EA-ext had the same antinociceptive effect on writhing responses as induced by acetic acid. Its major alkaloidal constituents, evodiamine and rutaecarpine also had the antinociceptive effect. EA-ext significantly decreased the frequency of licking behavior within a unit of time at the late phase without affecting that of the early phase in the formalin test. EA-ext also increased nociceptive threshold of the inflamed paw without increasing that in the non-inflamed paw in the Randall-Selitto test. Although EA-ext inhibited the rise of vascular permeability induced by acetic acid and the increase of paw edema induced by carrageenin, it was ineffective on nociceptive response in the hot plate test and on locomotor activity. These results suggest that EA possesses antinociceptive effects and its mode of action may be mediated by anti-inflammatory action, and that the antinociceptive constituents are only partially attributable to alkaloidal components mentioned above.

Treatment and Outcome for Children with Esophageal Atresia from a Gender Perspective.

PubMed

Ekselius, Julia; Salö, Martin; Arnbjörnsson, Einar; Stenström, Pernilla

2017-01-01

Besides the incidence of esophageal atresia (EA) being higher in males, no other gender-specific differences in EA have been reported. The aim of this study was to search for gender-specific differences in EA. A retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary center for pediatric surgery. The medical charts of infants born with EA were reviewed. 20 girls were identified, and 20 boys were selected as matched controls with respect to concomitant malformations. Their treatment and outcome were evaluated. Polyhydramnios was more common in pregnancies with boys, 40%, versus girls, 10%, with EA ( p < 0.01). In total, 36 (90%) children had patent ductus arteriosus, without any gender difference (18 and 18, resp., p =1). The distribution of days at the different levels of care was not equally distributed between boys and girls. Boys with EA had significantly more postoperative days (median 5 days) in the ward than girls (median 5 and 2 days, resp., p =0.04). No other gender-specific differences in surgical treatment, complications, or symptoms at follow-up were identified. Polyhydramnios appears to be more frequent in pregnancies with boys than girls with EA. In this study, boys have longer stays than girls at the pediatric surgery ward.

Supraspinal control of external anal sphincter motility: effects of vesical distension in humans and cats.

PubMed

Vitton, V; Grimaud, J-C; Bouvier, M; Abysique, A

2006-11-01

A pontine centre located near the micturition centre controlling external anal sphincter (EAS) motility via noradrenergic neurones has been described in cats. The aim of this study was to determine (i) whether a similar centre controls EAS motility in humans and (ii) whether this centre is involved in vesico-sphincteric reflexes in cats and humans. The effects of an alpha-1-adrenoceptor antagonist (nicergoline) and those of vesical distension on the electrical activity of the EAS were studied in paraplegic and non-paraplegic volunteers. The effects of vesical distension by injecting saline at physiological levels on the responses of the EAS to pudendal nerve stimulation were investigated in intact cats and cats with nerve sections. In non-paraplegic subjects, nicergoline and vesical distension abolished the activity of the EAS. These effects were no longer observed in paraplegic patients. In cats, vesical distension inhibited the reflex response of the EAS to pudendal nerve stimulation. This vesico-sphincteric reflex, which was no longer observed in spinal animals, persisted after nicergoline injection. These findings indicate that in humans, there exists a supra-spinal centre facilitating the tonic activity of the EAS via noradrenergic neurones not involved in the inhibitory vesico-sphincteric reflex.

Marine Corps Operational Medicine: An Analysis of Medical Supply Requirements for the Surgical Company Operating Room

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-06-18

354 Minor room clean-up Yes Yes 358 Tracheostomy Yes Yes 359 Induce local anesthesia No Yes 403 Decompression Craniotomy Yes Yes 455 Amputation... Drainage Auto Transfusion Bag 6s 1.2 EA 6515014993126 Pleurevac Drainage Unit W/Blood Retreival 6s 1.2 EA 6510011603261 Sponge Laparotomy...2.5’ Ster 24s 4 EA 6515011535730 Suture Nonabsorb Surg Cardio 3-0 Dbl Armed Poly Monofilament Ster 36s 2 EA 6515008669073 Tube Drainage

Emergency Preparedness Plan. DeWitt Army Community Hospital, Fort Belvoir, Virginia,

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-12-31

demand, dispatch at least one Respiratory Specialist (91V) to the ER rn Department of Familv Practice or senior representative will: (1) /Wnni™ and...be prepared for are: a. Two (2) messengers/runners to the EOC and Triage area(s). b. One or more Respiratory Specialist (91V) to the ER. c. A...Depressors 1 bx Shave Prep Set 50 ea Skin Closure, Adhesive 2 bx Stethoscope 5 ea Dental Mirrors 2 ea Nasal Speculum 2 ea Betadine Surgi-prep Sponge

Evaluation of RSDL, M291 SDK, 0.5% Bleach, 1% Soapy Water and SERPACWA. Part 12: Challenge with EA1212 (GF, cyclosarin)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-01-01

products in the haired guinea pig model following exposure to GF (EA1212). 15. SUBJECT TERMS decontamination, delayed decontamination, Reactive Skin...the four listed decontamination products in the haired guinea pig model following exposure to GF (EA1212). In all experiments, guinea pigs were close...the four listed decontamination products and SERPACWA in the haired guinea pig model following exposure to GF [cyclosarin, EA1212, Cyclohexyl

Cerebral white matter hyperintensity in African Americans and European Americans with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Divers, Jasmin; Hugenschmidt, Christina; Sink, Kaycee M; Williamson, Jeffrey D; Ge, Yaorong; Smith, S Carrie; Bowden, Donald W; Whitlow, Christopher T; Lyders, Eric; Maldjian, Joseph A; Freedman, Barry I

2013-10-01

Previous studies involving inner city populations detected higher cerebral white matter hyperintensity (WMH) scores in African Americans (AAs) compared with European Americans (EAs). This finding might be attributable to the higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and poorer access to healthcare in AAs. Despite racial differences in CVD risk factor profiles, AAs have paradoxically lower levels of subclinical CVD. We hypothesized that AAs with diabetes and good access to healthcare would have comparable or lower levels of WMH as EAs. Racial differences in the distribution of WMH were analyzed in 46 AAs and 156 EAs with type 2 diabetes enrolled in the Diabetes Heart Study (DHS)-Mind, and replicated in a sample of 113 AAs and 61 EAs patients who had clinically indicated cerebral magnetic resonance imaging. Wilcoxon 2-sample tests and linear models were used to compare the distribution of WMH in AAs and EAs and to test for association between WMH and race. The unadjusted mean WMH score from the Diabetes Heart Study-Mind was 1.9 in AAs and 2.3 in EAs (P = .3244). Among those with clinically indicated magnetic resonance imaging, the mean WMH score was 2.9 in AAs and 3.9 in EAs (P = .0503). Adjustment for age and sex produced no statistically significant differences in WMH score between AAs and EAs. These independent datasets reveal comparable WMH scores in AAs and EAs, suggesting that disparities in access to healthcare and environmental exposures likely underlie the previously reported excess burden of WMH in AAs. Copyright © 2013 National Stroke Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of electroacupuncture at 2 and 100 Hz on rat type 2 diabetic neuropathic pain and hyperalgesia-related protein expression in the dorsal root ganglion.

PubMed

He, Xiao-Fen; Wei, Jun-Jun; Shou, Sheng-Yun; Fang, Jian-Qiao; Jiang, Yong-Liang

To investigate the analgesic effects of electroacupuncture (EA) at 2 and 100 Hz on type 2 diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) and on the expressions of the P2X3 receptor and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG). Rat type 2 DNP was induced by a high calorie and high sugar diet fed for 7 weeks, plus a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) after 5 weeks. EA at 2 and 100 Hz was carried out once every day after 7 weeks for 7 consecutive days. Body weight, serum fasting insulin (FINS), fasting blood glucose (FBG), insulin sensitivity index (ISI), and paw withdrawal latency (PWL) were measured. The expressions of L4-L6 DRG P2X3 receptors and CGRP were assessed by immunofluorescence. Type 2 DNP was successfully induced as shown by the increased body weight, FINS, and FBG, as well as the reduced ISI and PWL. Expressions of P2X3 receptors and CGRP in L4-L6 DRGs increased. EA at both 2 and 100 Hz relieved type 2 DNP, but the analgesic effect of EA was stronger at 2 Hz. P2X3 receptor expression decreased in L4-L6 DRGs following EA at 2 Hz and in L5 and L6 DRGs following EA at 100 Hz. EA at both 2 and 100 Hz down-regulated CGRP overexpression in L4-L6 DRGs. These findings indicate that EA at 2 Hz is a good option for the management of type 2 DNP. The EA effect may be related to its down-regulation of the overexpressions of the DRG P2X3 receptors and CGRP in this condition.

A mediational model of obesity related disordered eating: The roles of childhood emotional abuse and self-perception.

PubMed

Hymowitz, Genna; Salwen, Jessica; Salis, Katie Lee

2017-08-01

The extant literature indicates negative self-perceptions are a risk factor for disordered eating (DE) and DE is a risk factor for overweight and obesity. While childhood emotional abuse (EA) is often linked to DE and obesity, it is typically not included in comprehensive models of these health problems. Further investigation of interactions among EA, self-perception, and DE is needed to refine treatments for overweight, obesity, and DE. This study evaluated a model of DE and weight difficulties in which negative self-perception mediate the relationship between EA and DE, and DE predicts body mass index (BMI) in a population of emerging adults. Further, this study investigated the utility of history of EA for prediction of DE and classification of individuals with and without DE. Self-report questionnaires on childhood trauma, psychopathology, and eating behaviors were administered to 598 undergraduate students. Latent variable analysis confirmed the hypothesized model. Recursive partitioning determined that individuals reporting a high level of EA likely meet criteria for night eating syndrome (NES) or binge eating disorder (BED), and history of EA has a moderate to high level of specificity as a predictor of BED and NES. These findings confirm the necessity of evaluating EA and DE in emerging adults with weight difficulties, and the importance of assessing self-perception and DE in individuals with a history of EA. Future studies should investigate the utility of addressing EA and self-perception in interventions for DE and obesity and to determine whether these findings can be generalized to a clinical population. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The association between lower educational attainment and depression owing to shared genetic effects? Results in ~25,000 subjects.

PubMed

Peyrot, W J; Lee, S H; Milaneschi, Y; Abdellaoui, A; Byrne, E M; Esko, T; de Geus, E J C; Hemani, G; Hottenga, J J; Kloiber, S; Levinson, D F; Lucae, S; Martin, N G; Medland, S E; Metspalu, A; Milani, L; Noethen, M M; Potash, J B; Rietschel, M; Rietveld, C A; Ripke, S; Shi, J; Willemsen, G; Zhu, Z; Boomsma, D I; Wray, N R; Penninx, B W J H

2015-06-01

An association between lower educational attainment (EA) and an increased risk for depression has been confirmed in various western countries. This study examines whether pleiotropic genetic effects contribute to this association. Therefore, data were analyzed from a total of 9662 major depressive disorder (MDD) cases and 14,949 controls (with no lifetime MDD diagnosis) from the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium with additional Dutch and Estonian data. The association of EA and MDD was assessed with logistic regression in 15,138 individuals indicating a significantly negative association in our sample with an odds ratio for MDD 0.78 (0.75-0.82) per standard deviation increase in EA. With data of 884,105 autosomal common single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), three methods were applied to test for pleiotropy between MDD and EA: (i) genetic profile risk scores (GPRS) derived from training data for EA (independent meta-analysis on ~120,000 subjects) and MDD (using a 10-fold leave-one-out procedure in the current sample), (ii) bivariate genomic-relationship-matrix restricted maximum likelihood (GREML) and (iii) SNP effect concordance analysis (SECA). With these methods, we found (i) that the EA-GPRS did not predict MDD status, and MDD-GPRS did not predict EA, (ii) a weak negative genetic correlation with bivariate GREML analyses, but this correlation was not consistently significant, (iii) no evidence for concordance of MDD and EA SNP effects with SECA analysis. To conclude, our study confirms an association of lower EA and MDD risk, but this association was not because of measurable pleiotropic genetic effects, which suggests that environmental factors could be involved, for example, socioeconomic status.

Low-frequency electroacupuncture suppresses focal epilepsy and improves epilepsy-induced sleep disruptions.

PubMed

Yi, Pei-Lu; Lu, Chin-Yu; Jou, Shuo-Bin; Chang, Fang-Chia

2015-07-07

The positive effects of acupuncture at Feng-Chi acupoints on treating epilepsy and insomnia have been well-documented in ancient Chinese literature. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence to elucidate the underlying mechanisms behind these effects. Our previous study demonstrated that high-frequency (100 Hz) electroacupuncture (EA) at Feng-Chi acupoints deteriorates both pilocarpine-induced focal epilepsy and sleep disruptions. This study investigated the effects of low-frequency (10 Hz) EA on epileptic activities and epilepsy-induced sleep disruptions. In rats, the Feng-Chi acupoint is located 3 mm away from the center of a line between the two ears. Rats received 30 min of 10 Hz EA stimuli per day before each day's dark period for three consecutive days. Our results indicated that administration of pilocarpine into the left CeA at the beginning of the dark period induced focal epilepsy and decreased both rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and non-REM (NREM) sleep during the consequent light period. Low-frequency (10 Hz) EA at Feng-Chi acupoints suppressed pilocarpine-induced epileptiform EEGs, and this effect was in turn blocked by naloxone (a broad-spectrum opioid receptor antagonist), but not by naloxonazine (a μ-receptor antagonist), naltrindole (a δ-receptor antagonist) and nor-binaltorphimine (a κ-receptor antagonist). Ten Hz EA enhanced NREM sleep during the dark period, and this enhancement was blocked by all of the opioid receptor antagonists. On the other hand, 10 Hz EA reversed pilocarpine-induced NREM suppression during the light period, and the EA's effect on the sleep disruption was only blocked by naloxonazine. These results indicate that low-frequency EA stimulation of Feng-Chi acupoints is beneficial in improving epilepsy and epilepsy-induced sleep disruptions, and that opioid receptors in the CeA mediate EA's therapeutic effects.